tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21556794253989217452024-03-08T07:03:09.410-08:00What does the Bible say about...It's not easy to find out what the Bible says about a certain subject. Why not look it up here in this big Bible reference blog!Friedrich "Mike" Helmkehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16185159203043872595noreply@blogger.comBlogger112125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2155679425398921745.post-41466253439077797162017-01-01T20:10:00.003-08:002017-01-01T20:10:57.255-08:00Introduction<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">The purpose of <i>What does the bible say about ...</i> is to clearly outline the basic beliefs that form the foundation for true Biblical Christianity. It is "a declaration of those things which are most surely believed among us...that thou mayest know how thou oughtest to behave". (Luke1:1 ; 1 Timothy.3:14,15)<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"> <i>What does the bible say about ...</i> will undoubtedly prove to be a very useful and helpful topical concordance and study aid for all Christians who read it. Familiarizing yourself with the Scriptures herein will deepen your knowledge of God's Word, which will prove to be "a lamp unto your feet and a light unto your path" (Psalm119:105), a continual source of strength and direction.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"> It will also be a particularly valuable tool to all active witnesses, lay workers and missionaries who wish to instruct new Christians in basic Biblical truths. Pastors & counselors will find it a great help when instructing or counseling others. Parents will also find it a most helpful tool in bringing up their children in the "nurture and admonition of the Lord". (Ephesians 6:4)</span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"> It is our hope that the Lord will use this handbook to encourage and strengthen the faith of all of its readers & to open the Scriptures to those who are unfamiliar with them. And most importantly, we hope that it will fulfill its principal purpose of placing a compact Bible manual in the hands of all Christian workers, aiding them to "feed the flock of God which is among them". (1 Peter5:2)</span></span></div>
Friedrich "Mike" Helmkehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16185159203043872595noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2155679425398921745.post-69347491584964528792017-01-01T20:09:00.002-08:002017-01-01T20:09:31.431-08:00Nightmares<b><u><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Definition</span></u></b><b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">: </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">A frightening or terrifying dream. (The word "nightmare" comes from the Old English word "mare" (or goblin) which meant an evil spirit or demon haunting people in their sleep.)</span><br />
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<span lang="EN-US">1. We have nothing to fear because God has promised us protection against nightmares.<o:p></o:p></span></h1>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Psalm 4:8 </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">I will both lay me down in peace, and sleep: for Thou, Lord, only makest me dwell in safety.</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Psalm 91:5a,6a </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Thou shalt not be afraid for the terror by night … 6a Nor for the pestilence that walketh in darkness.</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Proverbs 3:24 </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">When thou liest down, thou shalt not be afraid: yea, thou shalt lie down, and thy sleep shall be sweet.</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">2 Timothy 1:7 </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">1 John 4:4 </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is He that is in you, than he that is in the world.</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">1 John 4:18a </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear.</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">2. We shouldn't feel intimidated or condemned by nightmares, but recognize them as the spiritual attacks of the Enemy that they are, and resist and overcome them with the Lord's help.<o:p></o:p></span></h1>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">1 Corinthians 10:13 </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, Who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">1 Peter 5:8,9a </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the Devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: 9a Whom resist steadfast in the faith.</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">3. Sometimes bad dreams can be triggered by bad experiences or sights, so avoid these, if possible.<o:p></o:p></span></h1>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Psalm 101:3a </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">I will set no wicked thing before mine eyes: ... it shall not cleave to me.</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Psalm 119:37 </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Turn away mine eyes from beholding vanity; and quicken Thou me in Thy way.</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Romans 12:9b </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Abhor that which is evil; cleave to that which is good.</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">1 Peter 1:13a </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Wherefore gird up the loins of your mind.</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">4.</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;"> <b>Some bad dreams result from simple, natural causes, or can be spiritually meaningless.</b></span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Ecclesiastes 5:3a [</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Going to sleep with our minds still filled with concerns of the day:] For a dream cometh through the multitude of business.</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Ecclesiastes 5:7 </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">For in the multitude of dreams and many words there are also divers vanities: but fear thou God.</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Isaiah 29:8a [</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Something we ate or some unmet physical need:] It shall even be as when an hungry man dreameth, and, behold, he eateth; but he awaketh, and his soul is empty: or as when a thirsty man dreameth, and, behold, he drinketh; but he awaketh, and, behold, he is faint, and his soul hath appetite.</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">5. Some troublesome dreams may actually be from the Lord, but these clearly differ from nightmares in that they always have a purpose, either prophetic, or to warn, or to offer positive lessons.<o:p></o:p></span></h1>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Genesis 40:5-23 [</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Joseph interpreted the troubling dreams of others:] And they dreamed a dream both of them, each man his dream in one night, each man according to the interpretation of his dream, the butler and the baker of the king of Egypt, which were bound in the prison. 6 And Joseph came in unto them in the morning, and looked upon them, and, behold, they were sad. [The dreams, which were from the Lord, were fulfilled, one a dream of blessing and the other, a dream of judgment]</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Genesis 41:1,8,32 </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">And it came to pass at the end of two full years, that Pharaoh dreamed: and, behold, he stood by the river. … 8 And it came to pass in the morning that his spirit was troubled; and he sent and called for all the magicians of Egypt, and all the wise men thereof: and Pharaoh told them his dream; but there was none that could interpret them unto Pharaoh. … [But Joseph interpreted it, saying:] 32 And for that the dream was doubled unto Pharaoh twice; it is because the thing is established by God, and God will shortly bring it to pass. [This dream helped preserve Egypt, as well as Joseph's family, in time of famine]</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Job 4:13-17 </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">In thoughts from the visions of the night, when deep sleep falleth on men, 14 Fear came upon me, and trembling, which made all my bones to shake. 15 Then a spirit passed before my face; the hair of my flesh stood up: 16 It stood still, but I could not discern the form thereof: an image was before mine eyes, there was silence, and I heard a voice, saying, 17 Shall mortal man be more just than God? Shall a man be more pure than His Maker?</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Job 7:13,14 </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">When I say, My bed shall comfort me, my couch shall ease my complaint; 14 Then Thou scarest me with dreams, and terrifiest me through visions.</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Isaiah 21:4 [</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">The prophet received a frightful message of the judgment of Babylon from the Lord, which greatly disturbed his sleep:] My heart panted, fearfulness affrighted me: the night of my pleasure hath He turned into fear unto me.</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Daniel 2:1 </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">And in the second year of the reign of Nebuchadnezzar Nebuchadnezzar dreamed dreams, wherewith his spirit was troubled, and his sleep brake from him.</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Matthew 27:19 </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">When he [Pilate] was set down on the judgment seat, his wife sent unto him, saying, Have thou nothing to do with that just Man: for I have suffered many things this day in a dream because of Him.</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">6. Our first and surest defense against nightmares is to pray against them!<o:p></o:p></span></h1>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Psalm 34:4 </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">I sought the Lord, and He heard me, and delivered me from all my fears.</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Matthew 18:18a </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Verily I say unto you, Whatsoever ye shall bind on earth shall be bound in Heaven.</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Matthew 18:19 [</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Ask others to pray with you:] Again I say unto you, That if two of you shall agree on earth as touching any thing that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of My Father which is in Heaven.</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Ephesians 6:12,13,16,18 </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. 13 Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. ... 16 Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. ... 18 Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Philippians 4:6-7 </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. 7 And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">7. We should also specifically ask the Lord for positive, edifying, faith-building dreams, which God has promised to give to His children.<o:p></o:p></span></h1>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Numbers 12:6b </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">I the Lord will make myself known unto him in a vision, and will speak unto him in a dream.</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Job 33:15-17 </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">In a dream, in a vision of the night, when deep sleep falleth upon men, in slumberings upon the bed; 16 Then He openeth the ears of men, and sealeth their instruction, 17 That He may withdraw man from his purpose, and hide pride from man.</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Jeremiah 23:28a </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">The prophet that hath a dream, let him tell a dream; and he that hath My Word, let him speak My Word faithfully.</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Joel 2:28 </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">And it shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out My Spirit upon all flesh; and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, your young men shall see visions.</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">8.</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;"> <b>We should meditate on the Lord and His Word as we go to sleep.</b></span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Psalm 17:4b </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">By the Word of Thy lips I have kept me from the paths of the Destroyer.</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Psalm 43:2b,3 </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Why go I mourning because of the oppression of the enemy? 3 O send out Thy light and Thy truth: let them lead me; let them bring me unto Thy holy hill, and to Thy tabernacles.</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Psalm 63:6,7 </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">When I remember Thee upon my bed, and meditate on Thee in the night watches. 7 Because Thou hast been my help, therefore in the shadow of Thy wings will I rejoice.</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Psalm 94:19 I</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">n the multitude of my thoughts within me Thy comforts delight my soul.</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Psalm 104:34 </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">My meditation of Him shall be sweet: I will be glad in the Lord.</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Proverbs 6:22 </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">When thou goest, it [the Word] shall lead thee; when thou <u>sleepest</u>, it shall <u>keep</u> thee; and when thou awakest, it shall talk with thee.</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Isaiah 26:3 </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on Thee: because he trusteth in Thee.</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h1>
<span lang="EN-US">9. We must not dwell on nightmares we may have had.<o:p></o:p></span></h1>
<div style="margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Psalm 119:37 </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Turn away mine eyes from beholding vanity; and quicken Thou me in Thy way.</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Ephesians 4:27 </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Neither give place to the Devil.</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Philippians 4:8 </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Philippians 1:28a </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">And in nothing terrified by your adversaries.</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h1>
<span lang="EN-US">10. Here are a few more of the Lord's precious promises to claim for sweet dreams:<o:p></o:p></span></h1>
<div style="margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Deuteronomy 33:12a </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">The beloved of the Lord shall dwell in safety by Him.</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">1 Kings 8:56a </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Blessed be the Lord, that hath given rest unto His people.</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Job 11:18,19a </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">And thou shalt be secure, because there is hope; yea, thou shalt dig about thee, and thou shalt take thy rest in safety. 19 also thou shalt lie down, and none shall make thee afraid.</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Psalm 4:8 </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">I will both lay me down in peace, and sleep: for Thou, Lord, only makest me dwell in safety.</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Psalm 16:7 </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">I will bless the Lord, Who hath given me counsel: my reins [heart] also instruct me in the night seasons.</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Psalm 29:11 </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">The Lord will give strength unto His people; the Lord will bless His people with p<b>eace.</b></span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Psalm 34:7 </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">The angel of the Lord encampeth round about them that fear Him, and delivereth them.</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Psalm 42:8 </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Yet the Lord will command His lovingkindness in the daytime, and in the night His song shall be with me, and my prayer unto the God of my life.</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Psalm 55:18 </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">He hath delivered my soul in peace from the battle that was against me: for there were many with me.</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Psalm 139:2-3,18b T</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">hou knowest my downsitting and mine uprising, Thou understandest my thought afar off. Thou compassest my path and my lying down, and art acquainted with all my ways. … 18b When I awake, I am still with Thee.</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Ecclesiastes 5:12a </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">The sleep of a labouring man is sweet, whether he eat little or mu<b>ch.</b></span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">John 14:27 </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Peace I leave with you, My peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">2 Peter 2:9a </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">The Lord knoweth how to deliver the godly out of temptations.</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Hebrews 4:9 </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">There remaineth therefore a rest to the people of God.</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Friedrich "Mike" Helmkehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16185159203043872595noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2155679425398921745.post-50246006026203639712016-12-16T13:33:00.000-08:002016-12-21T01:04:29.690-08:00ADAPTABILITY<b><u><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Definition</span></u></b><b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">:<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span></span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The ability to change so as to fit a new specific use or situation.</span><br />
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US">1. Adaptability is an
important and necessary quality for ministers of the Gospel.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">1
Corinthians 9:19-23 </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">For though I be free from all men, yet
have I made myself servant unto all, that I might gain the more. 20 And unto
the Jews I became as a Jew, that I might gain the Jews; to them that are under
the law, as under the law, that I might gain them that are under the law; 21 To
them that are without law, as without law, (being not without law to God, but
under the law to Christ,) that I might gain them that are without law. 22 To
the weak became I as weak, that I might gain the weak: I am made all things to
all men, that I might by all means save some. 23 And this I do for the Gospel's
sake, that I might be partaker thereof with you.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">1
Corinthians 10:33 </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Even as I please all men in all things,
not seeking mine own profit, but the profit of many, that they may be saved.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US">2. As situations and
conditions change, we must adapt accordingly.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Ecclesiastes
3:1 </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">To every thing there is a season, and a
time to every purpose under the Heaven.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Matthew
9:14,15 </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Then came to Him the disciples of John,
saying, Why do we and the Pharisees fast oft, but Thy disciples fast not? 15
And Jesus said unto them, Can the children of the bridechamber mourn, as long
as the Bridegroom is with them? But the days will come, when the Bridegroom
shall be taken from them, and then shall they fast.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Luke
9:3 and 22:35,36 </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">And He said unto them, Take nothing for
your journey, neither staves, nor scrip, neither bread, neither money; neither
have two coats apiece. 22:35 And He said unto them, When I sent you without
purse, and scrip, and shoes, lacked ye any thing? And they said, Nothing. 36
Then said He unto them, But now, he that hath a purse, let him take it, and
likewise his scrip: and he that hath no sword, let him sell his garment, and
buy one.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US">3. Jesus was the
greatest sample of adaptability: The Son of God
also became the Son of Man.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">John
1:14a </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">And the Word [Jesus] was made flesh, and
dwelt among us.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Philippians
2:5-8 </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: 6 Who, being in the form
of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: 7 But made Himself of no
reputation, and took upon Him the form of a servant, and was made in the
likeness of men: 8 And being found in fashion as a man, He humbled Himself, and
became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">1
Timothy 3:16 </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">And without controversy great is the
mystery of Godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit,
seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received
up into glory.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">[See also Hebrews 2:14]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US">4. Being adaptable
often requires living above circumstances and conditions.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Philippians
4:11-13 </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Not that I speak in respect of want: for I
have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content. 12 I know both
how to be abased, and I know how to abound: every where and in all things I am
instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need.
13 I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">[See also 1
Corinthians 4:9-13]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US">5. Adaptability means
being open and willing to do things God's way.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Hebrews
6:3 </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">And this will we do,<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><u>if God permit</u>.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">James
4:13-15 </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Go to now, ye that say, To day or to
morrow we will go into such a city, and continue there a year, and buy and
sell, and get gain: 14 Whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow. For
what is your life? It is even a vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and
then vanisheth away. 15 For that ye ought to say, If the Lord will, we shall
live, and do this, or that.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">[See also Acts 18:21;
Romans 1:9,10]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US">6. Adaptability means
being willing to be fashioned -- or refashioned -- according to the Lord's will
and plan.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Isaiah
64:8 </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">But now, O Lord, Thou art our Father; we
are the clay, and Thou our Potter; and we all are the work of Thy hand.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Jeremiah
18:4 </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">And the vessel that he [the potter] made
of clay was marred in the hand of the potter: so he made it again another
vessel, as seemed good to the potter to make it.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Romans
9:20,21 </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Nay but, O man, who art thou that repliest
against God? Shall the thing formed say to Him that formed it, Why hast Thou
made me thus? 21 Hath not the potter power over the clay, of the same lump to
make one vessel unto honour, and another unto dishonour?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Philippians
2:13 </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">For it is God which worketh in you both to
will and to do of His good pleasure.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">7.</span></b><span class="apple-converted-space"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> </span></span><b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Adaptability
often requires humility.</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Matthew
3:13-15 </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Then cometh Jesus from Galilee to Jordan
unto John, to be baptized of him. 14 But John forbad Him, saying, I have need
to be baptized of Thee, and comest Thou to me? 15 And Jesus answering said unto
him, Suffer it to be so now: for thus it becometh us to fulfil all righteousness.
Then he suffered Him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">John
3:30 </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">He must increase, but I must decrease.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">John
13:8-9 </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Peter saith unto Him, Thou shalt never
wash my feet. Jesus answered him, If I wash thee not, thou hast no part with
Me. 9 Simon Peter saith unto him, Lord, not my feet only, but also my hands and my head.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US">8. Adaptability
requires yielding your will and mind to God and His plans.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Romans
12:1,2 </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the
mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy,
acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. 2 And be not conformed
to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may
prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Romans
6:13 </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Neither yield ye your members as
instruments of unrighteousness unto sin: but yield yourselves unto God, as
those that are alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of
righteousness unto God.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">2
Corinthians 8:12 </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">For if there be first a willing mind, it
is accepted according to that a man hath, and not according to that he hath
not.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">1
Samuel 3:18b </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">It is the Lord: let Him do what seemeth
Him good.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Matthew
6:10b </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Thy [God's] will be done in earth, as it
is in Heaven.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Matthew
26:39 </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">And He went a little further, and fell on
His face, and prayed, saying, O My Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass
from Me: nevertheless not as I will, but as Thou wilt.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Luke
1:38b </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Be it unto me according to Thy Word.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Friedrich "Mike" Helmkehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16185159203043872595noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2155679425398921745.post-63188644995696594862016-12-16T13:21:00.001-08:002016-12-21T01:05:14.360-08:00ACCEPTANCE, WANTING<b><u><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Definition</span></u></b><b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">:<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span></span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">In the social sense, to be accepted is to
be received by others in a positive way; to be considered worthy of friendship
and respect.</span><br />
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US">1. The Lord
understands our need to feel accepted.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Genesis
2:18 </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">And the Lord God said, It is not good that
the man should be alone; I will make him an help meet for him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Psalm 133:1 Behold,
how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US">2. Our desire for
acceptance, like so many of our other needs, is one that the Lord Himself wants
to be the first to meet.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Romans
5:8 [</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">God accepts us as we are, and loves us in
spite of our faults:] But God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we
were yet sinners, Christ died for us.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Psalm
142:4,5 </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I looked on my right hand, and beheld, but
there was no man that would know me: refuge failed me; no man cared for my
soul. 5 I cried unto Thee, O Lord: I said,<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><u>Thou</u><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>art my refuge and my portion in the
land of the living.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Isaiah <b>54:10 </b>For
the mountains shall depart, and the hills be removed; but My kindness shall not
depart from thee, neither shall the covenant of My peace be removed, saith the
Lord that hath mercy on thee.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"> 2
Timothy 4:16,17 </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">All men forsook me: I pray God that it may not be laid
to their charge. Notwithstanding the Lord stood with me, and
strengthened me.</span><span lang="EN-US"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Hebrews
13:5b </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I [Jesus] will never leave thee, nor
forsake thee.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US">3. Acceptance is a
two-way street: if we want others to accept us, we also need to express to
others that we love and accept them.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Matthew
7:12 </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Therefore all things whatsoever ye would
that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: for this is the law and the
prophets. [See also Luke 6:31]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Proverbs
18:24a [</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Take the initiative:] A man that hath [or
seeks to have] friends must shew himself friendly.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Matthew
5:46-48 [</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Show tolerance and understanding:] For if
ye love them which love you, what reward have ye? Do not even the publicans the
same? 47 And if ye salute your brethren only, what do ye more than others? Do
not even the publicans so? 48 Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father
which is in Heaven is perfect. [See also Luke 6:32-36]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">1
Thessalonians 3:12 </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">And the Lord make you to increase and
abound in love one toward another, and toward all men, even as we do toward
you. [See also 1 Peter 4:8]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">James
3:17,18 </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">But the wisdom that is from Above is first
pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good
fruits,<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><u>without partiality</u>,
and without hypocrisy. 18 And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace of
them that make peace.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US">4. We must not let
our desire to be accepted by others supersede our desire to please the Lord.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">John
12:42-43 </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Nevertheless among the chief rulers also many believed on him; but because of the
Pharisees they did not confess him, lest they should be put out of the
synagogue: 43 For they loved the praise of men more than the praise of God.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">2
Corinthians 5:9 </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Wherefore we labour, that, whether present
or absent, we may be accepted of<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><u>Him</u>.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Galatians
1:10 </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">For do I now persuade men, or God? Or do I
seek to please men? For if I yet pleased men, I should not be the servant of
Christ.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> 1
Thessalonians 2:4 </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">But as we were allowed of God to be put in
trust with the Gospel, even so we speak; not as pleasing men, but God, which
trieth our hearts.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US">5.<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>If we
put God first, He will see to it that we are accepted by those<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><u>He</u><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>wants
us to be close to.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Romans
14:17,18 </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">For the Kingdom of God is not meat and
drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost. 18 For he that
in these things serveth Christ is acceptable to God, and approved of men.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Matthew
6:33 </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">But seek ye first the Kingdom of God, and
His righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Proverbs
3:3,4 [</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Stay true to the standard of the Word:]
Let not mercy and truth forsake thee: bind them about thy neck; write them upon
the table of thine heart: 4 So shalt thou find favour and good understanding in
the sight of God and man.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Proverbs
22:11 </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">He that loveth pureness of heart, for the
grace of his lips, the king shall be his friend.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Proverbs
16:7 </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">When a man's ways please the Lord, He
maketh even his enemies to be at peace with him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US">6.<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>Acceptance
among Christians should be based on their mutual faith and love for the Lord.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">1
John 4:21 </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">And this commandment have we from Him,
that he who loveth God love his brother also.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">1
Corinthians 12:25 </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">That there should be no schism in the
Body; but that the members should have the same care one for another.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Galatians
2:</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">9 [Even though Paul, before he was saved,
had been a persecutor of the Early Church, after his Salvation the apostles
accepted him as brother for the Gospel's sake:] And when James, Cephas, and
John, who seemed to be pillars, perceived the grace that was given unto me,
they gave to me and Barnabas the right hands of fellowship; that we should go
unto the heathen, and they unto the circumcision.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Galatians
3:26-</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">28 For ye are all the children of God by
faith in Christ Jesus. 27 For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ
have put on Christ. 28 There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond
nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Ephesians
2:14 </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">For He is our peace, Who hath made both
[saved Jews and Gentiles] one, and hath broken down the middle wall of
partition between us.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Ephesians
4:2,3 [</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Sometimes it takes a conscious<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><u>effort</u><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>to overlook differences. Paul says
that we need to be]<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><u>endeavouring</u><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>to keep the unity of the Spirit in the
bond of peace.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US">7. We can't expect,
nor should we desire, to be accepted by the world and the wrong sort
of people.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">John <b>15:18,19 </b>If
the world hate you, ye know that it hated Me before it hated you. 19 If ye were
of the world, the world would love his own: but because ye are not of the
world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">John <b>17:14,15 </b>I
[Jesus] have given them [His disciples] Thy [God's] Word; and the world hath
hated them, because they are not of the world, even as I am not of the world.
15 I pray not that Thou shouldest take them out of the world, but that Thou
shouldest keep them from the evil.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">2
Corinthians 6:14,17 </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Be ye not unequally yoked together with
unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? And
what communion hath light with darkness? 17 Wherefore come<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><u>out</u><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>from among them, and be ye separate,
saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">James
4:4 </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Ye adulterers and adulteresses, know ye
not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? Whosoever therefore
will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">1
Peter 4:2-4 </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">He no longer should live the rest of his
time in the flesh to the lusts of men, but to the will of God. 3 For the time
past of our life may suffice us to have wrought the will of the Gentiles, when
we walked in lasciviousness, lusts, excess of wine, revellings, banquetings,
and abominable idolatries: 4 Wherein they think it strange that ye run not with
them to the same excess of riot, speaking evil of you.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Friedrich "Mike" Helmkehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16185159203043872595noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2155679425398921745.post-15624611198572742732016-12-16T12:42:00.001-08:002016-12-21T01:05:47.289-08:00AFFECTION<span class="apple-converted-space"><b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> </span></b></span><u><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Definition</span></u><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">:<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>A
tender feeling toward another; fondness. To be affectionate: Having or showing
warm regard or love, to be loving and tender.</span><br />
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US">1. As Christians, we
should be known for our love and affection to one another.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Proverbs 18:24a A
man that hath friends must shew himself friendly.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">John 13:35 By this
shall all men know that ye are My disciples, if ye have love one to another.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Romans 12:10a Be
kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Colossians 2:2a That
their hearts might be comforted, being knit together in love.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Colossians 3:14 And
above all these things put on charity [love], which is the bond of perfectness.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Hebrews 13:1 Let
brotherly love continue.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">1 Peter 3:8b Love
as brethren, be pitiful, be courteous.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">1 John 3:11 For
this is the message that ye heard from the beginning, that we should love one
another.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">1 John 4:21 And
this commandment have we from Him, That he who loveth God love his brother also.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US">2. Affectionate physical
contact with others is one way of outwardly expressing our love.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Genesis 29:11-13 [Jacob,
Rachel and her father, who were all relatives, exchange kisses, embraces and
loving affection upon greeting one another]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Genesis 48:10b [Joseph's
father, Israel, shows warm affection to his grandchildren:] And he brought them
near unto him; and he kissed them, and embraced them.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">1 Samuel 20:41b [David
and his best friend, Jonathan, showed great affection one for another as they
said good-bye:]<span class="apple-converted-space"><i> </i></span>David …
fell on his face to the ground, and bowed himself three times: and they kissed
one another, and wept one with another. …<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Luke 7:44-46 And
[Jesus] turned to the woman, and said unto Simon [the Pharisee], Seest thou
this woman? I entered into thine house, thou gavest Me no water for My feet:
but she hath washed My feet with tears, and wiped them with the hairs of her
head. 45 Thou gavest Me no kiss: but this woman since the time I came in hath
not ceased to kiss My feet. 46 My head with oil thou didst not anoint: but this
woman hath anointed My feet with ointment.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">John 13:23 [John's
affection for Jesus:] Now there was leaning on Jesus' bosom one of His
disciples, whom Jesus loved.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">1 John 3:18 My
little children, let us not love in word, neither in tongue; but in deed and in
truth.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Acts 20:1b Paul
called unto him the disciples, and embraced them, and departed for to go into
Macedonia.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">1 Peter 5:14a Greet
ye one another with a kiss of charity. [See also Romans 16:16; 1 Thessalonians
5:26]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US">3. God's true unselfish
love should motivate us to be affectionate.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">2 Corinthians 5:14a
For the love of Christ constraineth [compels] us.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Philippians 2:1b-3 If
there be … any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any bowels
and mercies, 2 Fulfill ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love,
being of one accord, of one mind. 3 Let nothing be done through strife or
vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than
themselves.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">1 Timothy 1:5 Now
the end of the commandment is charity out of a pure heart, and of a good
conscience, and of faith unfeigned.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Colossians 3:23 And
whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">1 Peter 1:22 Seeing
ye have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit unto
unfeigned [unpretended, sincere] love of the brethren, see that ye love one
another with a pure heart fervently.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US">4. We should make a
special effort to show affection to those whom we would naturally not be
inclined to.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Proverbs 3:27 Withhold
not good from them to whom it is due, when it is in the power of thine hand to
do it.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Matthew 25:40b [Jesus
said:] Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these My brethren,
ye have done it unto Me.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Luke 6:32 For if ye
love them which love you, what thank have ye? For sinners also love those that love them.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">1 Corinthians 12:23a
And those members of the body, which we think to be less honourable, upon these
we bestow more abundant honour.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">James 2:2-4a For if
there come unto your assembly a man with a gold ring, in goodly apparel, and
there come in also a poor man in vile
raiment; 3 And ye have respect to him that weareth the gay clothing, and say
unto him, Sit thou here in a good place; and say to the poor, Stand thou there,
or sit here under my footstool: 4 Are ye not then partial in yourselves…?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">1 John 3:17 But
whoso hath this world's good, and seeth his brother have need, and shutteth up
his bowels of compassion from him, how dwelleth the love of God in him? [See
also Deuteronomy 15:7,8]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US">5. Lack of affection is
not a good sign. It is also a sign of
the Second Coming, characterizing attitudes during the Last Days.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Matthew 24:12 And
because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Romans 1:31 [The
ungodly are:] without understanding, covenantbreakers, without natural
affection, implacable, unmerciful.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">2 Corinthians
6:11,12 O ye Corinthians, our mouth is open unto you, our heart is enlarged. 12
Ye are not straitened in us [we are not withholding affection from you], but ye
are straitened in your own bowels [withholding affection from us].<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">2 Timothy 3:1-3a This
know also, that in the<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><u>Last Days</u><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>perilous times shall come. 2 For men
shall be lovers of their own selves … 3a Without natural affection.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US">6. Loving affection should
not be selfish gratification.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Ezekiel 33:31b For
with their mouth they shew much love, but their heart goeth after their
covetousness.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">1 Corinthians 8:9 But
take heed lest by any means this liberty of yours become a stumblingblock to
them that are weak. [See also verse 12]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">1 Corinthians 13:5a
[Love] doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Galatians 5:13 For,
brethren, ye have been called unto liberty; only use not liberty for an
occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">1 Pet 2:16 As free,
and not using your liberty for a cloke of maliciousness, but as the servants of
God.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US">7. Are there times when
perhaps we should not express our affection outwardly?<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Ecclesiastes 3:1,5b
[Outward show of affection may not<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><u>always</u><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>be appropriate or expedient:] To every
thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the Heaven. … 5b A
time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">2 Corinthians 6:3 [Not
when it would be misinterpreted or misunderstood:] Giving no offence in any
thing, that the ministry be not blamed.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US">8. Some of the most
touching passages in the Bible recount how special moments of forgiveness,
reconciliation and friendship were sealed byActs of affection.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Genesis 33:1a,4 And
Jacob lifted up his eyes, and looked, and, behold, Esau came.… 4 And Esau ran
to meet him, and embraced him, and fell on his neck, and kissed him: and they
wept.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Genesis 45:14,15 [Upon
seeing his brothers after many years, Joseph:] fell upon his brother Benjamin's
neck, and wept; and Benjamin wept upon his neck. 15 Moreover he kissed all his
brethren, and wept upon them: and after that his brethren talked with him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Ruth 1:14-17 And
they lifted up their voice, and wept again: and Orpah kissed her mother in law;
but Ruth clave unto her. 15 And she said, Behold, thy sister in law is gone
back unto her people, and unto her gods: return thou after thy sister in law.
16 And Ruth said, Intreat me not to leave thee, or to return from following
after thee: for whither thou goest, I will go; and where thou lodgest, I will
lodge: thy people shall be my people, and thy God my God: 17 Where thou diest,
will I die, and there will I be buried: the Lord do so to me, and more also, if ought but death part thee and me.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">1 Samuel 18:1,3,4 And
it came to pass, when he had made an end of speaking unto Saul, that the soul
of Jonathan was knit with the soul of David, and Jonathan loved him as his own
soul. … 3 Then Jonathan and David made a covenant, because he loved him as his
own soul. 4 And Jonathan stripped himself of the robe that was upon him, and
gave it to David, and his garments, even to his sword, and to his bow, and to
his girdle.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Mark 9:36,37 [Jesus'
affection for children:] And He took a child, and set him in the midst of them:
and when He had taken him in His arms, He said unto them, 37 Whosoever shall
receive one of such children in My Name, receiveth Me: and whosoever shall
receive Me, receiveth not Me, but Him [God] that sent Me.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Luke 15:20 [The
Prodigal Son] arose, and came to his father. But when he was yet a great way
off, his father saw him, and had compassion, and ran, and fell on his neck, and
kissed him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">John 13:1-17 [Jesus'
humble and loving example of affection by washing His disciples' feet:] Ye call
Me Master and Lord: and ye say well; for so I am. 14 If I then, your Lord and
Master, have washed your feet; ye also ought
to wash one another's feet.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Acts 20:37,38a And
[the disciples] all wept sore, and fell on Paul's neck, and kissed him, 38
Sorrowing most of all for the words which he spake, that they should see his
face no more. And they accompanied him unto the ship.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<body oncopy="return false" oncut="return false" onpaste="return false">...</body>Friedrich "Mike" Helmkehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16185159203043872595noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2155679425398921745.post-56801717844996137732016-12-16T12:41:00.000-08:002016-12-16T13:37:20.136-08:00AGGRESSIVENESS<b><u><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Definition</span></u></b><b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">:<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span></span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Aggressiveness has two contrasting definitions: The primary, being
negative, means being inclined to act in a hostile manner; the secondary, but
more positive meaning, refers to being bold, assertive or enterprising in getting
things done. The first definition is the one explored in this section. See the
section on "Boldness" for the second definition.</span><br />
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US">1. Pushy
aggressiveness towards others is a worldly, carnal trait.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Romans
10:1-3 [</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Paul explains that the Jews were pushy in
their service for God, but lacked really knowing the Lord:] Brethren, my
heart's desire and prayer to God for Israel is, that they might be saved. 2 For
I bear them record that they have a zeal of God, but not according to
knowledge. 3 For they being ignorant of God's righteousness, and going about to
establish their own righteousness, have not submitted themselves unto the
righteousness of God.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Phil
3:6-7 [</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Paul knew the Jew's faults, because
earlier, as Saul the Pharisee, his attitude was:] Concerning zeal, persecuting
the Church; touching the righteousness which is in the law, blameless. 7 But
what things were gain to me, those I counted loss for Christ.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">John
18:36a </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Jesus answered, My Kingdom is not of this
world: if My Kingdom were of this world, then would My servants fight. [See
Matthew 26:52-54]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">2
Timothy 2:24 </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">And the servant of the Lord must not
strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Matthew
5:38-41 </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Ye have heard that it hath been said, An
eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth: 39 But I say unto you, That ye resist
not evil: but whosoever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the
other also. 40 And if any man will sue
thee at the law, and take away thy coat, let him have thy cloke also. 41 And whosoever shall compel thee to go
a mile, go with him twain.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Mark
10:42-44 [</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Worldly leaders are often pushy and
domineering, but we are taught to lead with meekness and love] But Jesus called
them to Him, and saith unto them, Ye know that they which are accounted to rule
over the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and their great ones exercise
authority upon them. 43 But so shall it not be among you: but whosoever will be
great among you, shall be your minister: 44 And whosoever of you will be the
chiefest, shall be servant of all.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Romans
13:13,14 </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Let us walk honestly, as in the day; not
in rioting and drunkenness, not in chambering and wantonness, not in strife and
envying. 14 But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the
flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1
Corinthians 3:3 </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">For ye are yet carnal: for whereas there
is among you envying, and strife, and divisions, are ye not carnal, and walk as
men?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">2
Corinthians 10:3 [</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Even though we are carnal people, we are
learning to see things in the Spirit] For though we walk in the flesh, we do
not war after the flesh. [See also Colossians 1:29]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US">2. Aggressiveness is
often a symptom of a me-first sort of pride and selfishness.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Proverbs
13:10a </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Only by pride cometh contention.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Galatians
5:26 </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Let us not be desirous of vain glory
[conceit], provoking one another, envying one another.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Philippians
2:3,4 </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Let nothing be done through strife or
vainglory [selfish ambition or conceit]; but in lowliness of mind let each
esteem other better than themselves. 4 Look not every man on his own things,
but every man also on the things of
others.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">James
4:1 </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">From whence come wars and fightings among
you? Come they not hence, even of your lusts that war in your members?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US">3. Aggressiveness
between Christians undermines unity and hinders our sample.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Proverbs
18:19 [</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Once disunity is created through offenses,
it takes great effort to patch it up] A brother offended is harder to be won
than a strong city: and their contentions are like the bars of a castle.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Matthew
12:25 </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">And Jesus knew their thoughts, and said
unto them, Every kingdom divided against itself is brought to desolation; and
every city or house divided against itself shall not stand.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Galatians
5:15-17 </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">But if ye bite and devour one another,
take heed that ye be not consumed one of another. 16 This I say then, Walk in
the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh. 17 For the flesh
lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are
contrary the one to the other: so that ye cannot do the things that ye would.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Philippians
1:15-17 [</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Paul refers to the insincere, ungodly,
selfish aggressiveness used by some Christians, contrasted with the loving
support felt from others:] Some indeed preach Christ even of envy and strife;
and some also of good will: 16 The one
preach Christ of contention … 17 But the other of love, knowing that I am set
for the defence of the Gospel<b>.</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Philippians
2:14,15 </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Do all things without murmurings and
disputings: 15 That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without
rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as
lights in the world.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US">4. Worldly
aggressiveness is completely contradictory to the ways of the Spirit.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Galatians
5:22,23 </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy,
peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, 23 Meekness, temperance:
against such there is no law.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">James
3:14-18 </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">But if ye have bitter envying and strife
in your hearts, glory not, and lie not against the truth. 15 This wisdom
descendeth not from above, but is earthly, sensual, devilish. 16 For where
envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work. 17 But the
wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be
intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without
hypocrisy. 18 And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace of them that make
peace.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US">5. If aggressiveness
is the problem, more love and a spirit of meekness are the cure.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Proverbs
10:12 </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Hatred stirreth up strifes: but love covereth
all sins. [See also 3:30]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Proverbs
25:15 [</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Meekness accomplishes much more than force]
By long forbearing is a prince persuaded, and a soft tongue breaketh the bone.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Romans
14:19 </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Let us therefore follow after the things
which make for peace, and things wherewith one may edify another.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1
Corinthians 2:3-5 [</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Paul, who had been overly aggressive as a
Jew, learned to be meek, realizing how weak he was, yet relying on the power of
God] And I was with you in weakness, and in fear, and in much trembling. 4 And
my speech and my preaching was not with enticing words of man's wisdom, but in
demonstration of the Spirit and of power: 5 That your faith should not stand in
the wisdom of men, but in the power of God. [See also 2 Corinthians 11:29,30; 13:9]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1
Corinthians 13:4,5 </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Charity [Love] suffereth long, and is
kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up, 5
Doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked,
thinketh no evil.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1
Corinthians 10:24 [</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Be aggressive in helping others, not
yourself] Let no man seek his own, but every man another's wealth.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">2
Corinthians 1:24 [</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The Apostles were not domineering] Not for
that we have dominion over your faith, but are helpers of your joy: for by
faith ye stand.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Ephesians
4:2 </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">With all lowliness and meekness, with
longsuffering, forbearing one another in love.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1
Peter 3:4 </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">But let it be the hidden man of the heart,
in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit,
which is in the sight of God of great price.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1
Peter 5:5 </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Likewise, ye younger, submit yourselves
unto the elder. Yea,<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><u>all</u><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>of you be subject one to another, and
be clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the
humble.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<body oncopy="return false" oncut="return false" onpaste="return false">...</body>Friedrich "Mike" Helmkehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16185159203043872595noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2155679425398921745.post-14985615408605784562016-12-16T12:39:00.001-08:002016-12-21T01:06:28.458-08:00ANGER & TEMPER<u><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Definitions</span></u><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">:<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>A
strong feeling of displeasure and usually of opposition toward someone or
something, often brought about by real or imagined injury; rage; fury; wrath.<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><i>Anger</i><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>is a broad term that applies to
various levels of emotion that may or may not be shown.<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><i>Temper</i>, as used here refers to
"the tendency to be easily angered."</span><br />
<h2>
<strong><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font: major-bidi;">1. God's
Word warns us not to yield to anger and wrath.<o:p></o:p></span></strong></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">James 1:19,20 Wherefore,
my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to
wrath: 20 For the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Psalm 37:8 Cease
from anger, and forsake wrath: fret not thyself in any wise to do evil.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Ecclesiastes 7:9 Be
not hasty in thy spirit to be angry: for anger resteth in the bosom of fools.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<strong><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font: major-bidi;">2. Anger
creates a breach in our spiritual defenses.<o:p></o:p></span></strong></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Proverbs 16:32 He
that is slow to anger is better than the mighty; and he that ruleth his spirit
than he that taketh a city. [See also Proverbs 14:29]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Proverbs 25:28 He
that hath no rule over his own spirit is like a city that is broken down, and
without walls.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<strong><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font: major-bidi;">3. Anger
often results from pride and selfishness.<o:p></o:p></span></strong></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Proverbs 21:24 Proud
and haughty scorner is his name, who dealeth in proud wrath.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">James 4:1 From
whence come wars and fightings among you? Come they not hence, even of your
lusts that war in your members?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<strong><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font: major-bidi;">4. If we
give place to ungodly anger, we will be the ones to suffer.<o:p></o:p></span></strong></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Proverbs 19:19a A
man of great wrath shall suffer punishment.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Proverbs 25:8 Go
not forth hastily to strive, lest thou know not what to do in the end thereof,
when thy neighbour hath put thee to shame.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Matthew 5:22a But I
say unto you, That whosoever is angry with his brother without a cause shall be
in danger of the Judgment.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Romans 12:19 Dearly
beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is
written, Vengeance is Mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<strong><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font: major-bidi;">5. A
wise man controls his temper because he knows it leads to mistakes
and even greater problems.<o:p></o:p></span></strong></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Numbers
20:7,8,10-12; Psalm 106:32,33 [Moses' outburst of anger caused him to lose the
blessing and privilege of leading his people into the Promised Land:] The Lord
spake unto Moses, saying, 8 Take the rod … and<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><u>speak</u><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>ye unto the rock before their eyes [the
rebellious congregation]; and it shall give forth his water…. 10 Moses … said
unto them, Hear now, ye rebels; must we fetch you water out of this rock? 11
And Moses lifted up his hand, and with his rod he<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><u>smote</u><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>the rock twice: and the water came out
abundantly, and the congregation drank, and their beasts also. 12 And the Lord spake unto Moses and
Aaron, Because ye believed Me not, to sanctify Me in the eyes of the children
of Israel, therefore ye shall not bring this congregation into the land which I
have given them. Psalm 106:32,33 They angered him [Moses] also at the waters of
strife, so that it went ill with Moses for their sakes: 33 Because they
provoked his spirit, so that he spake unadvisedly with his lips.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Proverbs 29:11 A
fool uttereth all his mind: but a wise man keepeth it in till afterwards.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Proverbs 14:17a He
that is soon angry dealeth foolishly.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Proverbs 14:29 He
that is slow to wrath is of great understanding: but he that is hasty of spirit
exalteth folly.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Proverbs 19:11 The
discretion [good judgement] of a man deferreth his anger; and it is his glory
to pass over a transgression.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Proverbs 29:22 An
angry man stirreth up strife, and a furious man aboundeth in transgression.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Ecclesiastes 5:2,6a
Be not rash with thy mouth, and let not thine heart be hasty to utter any thing
before God: for God is in Heaven, and thou upon earth: therefore let thy words
be few. 6a Suffer not thy mouth to cause thy flesh to sin.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<strong><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font: major-bidi;">6. An
even wiser man or woman helps others to
control their tempers.<o:p></o:p></span></strong></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Proverbs 15:1a A
soft answer turneth away wrath but grievous [harsh] words stir up anger. [See
also Proverbs 29:8b]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Proverbs 15:18b He
that is slow to anger appeaseth [pacifies] strife.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Genesis 13:7-9 [Abraham
wisely appeases strife which arose between his and his nephew, Lot's herdsmen]
And there was a strife between the herdmen of Abram's cattle and the herdmen of
Lot's cattle: 8 And Abram said unto Lot, Let there be no strife, I pray thee,
between me and thee, and between my herdmen and thy herdmen; for we be
brethren. 9 Is not the whole land before thee? Separate thyself, I pray thee,
from me: if thou wilt take the left hand, then I will go to the right; or if
thou depart to the right hand, then I will go to the left.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> 1
Samuel 25:1-35 [Abigail wisely pacifies the anger of Israel's king-to-be,
David, as he sought to kill her husband:] 32 David said to Abigail, Blessed be
the Lord God of Israel, which sent thee this day to meet me: 33 And blessed be
thy advice, and blessed be thou, which hast kept me this day from coming to
shed blood, and from avenging myself with mine own hand.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<strong><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font: major-bidi;">7. We
are to forsake anger and pray for the Lord to replace anger with love,
patience, meekness and forgiveness.<o:p></o:p></span></strong></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">1 Corinthians 13:5
[Love] doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><u>not easily provoked</u>, thinketh
no evil;<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Ephesians 4:31,32 Let
all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking, be put
away from you, with all malice: 32 And be ye kind one to another,
tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath
forgiven you.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Colossians 3:8,12-15
But now ye also put off all these;
anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy communication out of your mouth. 12 Put
on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies,
kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering; 13 Forbearing one
another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even
as Christ forgave you, so also do ye. 14
And above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness. 15
And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye
thankful.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Ephesians 4:26b Let
not the sun go down upon your wrath.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">[See also James 3:17,18]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<strong><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font: major-bidi;">8.
Though the "wrath of man" is to be shunned, there is a time for
"righteous indignation" or godly anger, a time to speak out against
evil, wrongdoing and injustice. But we must be sure it
is God's anger, not our own.<o:p></o:p></span></strong></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Proverbs 25:23 The
north wind driveth away rain: so doth an angry countenance a backbiting tongue.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Ephesians 4:26a Be
ye angry, and sin not.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Judges 14:19; 15:14,15;
16:28-30 [The Lord<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><u>anointed</u><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>Samson several times to be angry and<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><u>used</u><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>this anger to defeat the enemies of
His people] And the Spirit of the Lord came upon him, and he went down to
Ashkelon, and slew thirty men of them, and took their spoil…. 15:14,15 The
Philistines shouted against him: and the Spirit of the Lord came mightily upon
him, and the cords that were upon his arms became as flax that was burnt with
fire, and his bands loosed from off his hands. 15 And he found a new jawbone of
an ass, and put forth his hand, and took it, and slew a thousand men therewith.
16:28-30 And Samson called unto the Lord, and said, O Lord God, remember me, I
pray Thee, and strengthen me, I pray Thee, only this once, O God, that I may be
at once avenged of the Philistines for my two eyes. 29 And Samson took hold of
the two middle pillars upon which the house stood.… 30 And he bowed himself
with all his might; and the house fell upon the lords, and upon all the people
that were therein. So the dead which he slew at his death were more than they
which he slew in his life.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Mark 3:5 [Jesus
Himself was frequently stirred up with godly anger, such as the time His
hypocritical religious enemies were watching to see if He would break the Laws
of Moses by healing the man with the shrivelled hand on their holy day, the
Sabbath:] And when He had looked round about on them with anger, being grieved
for the hardness of their hearts, He saith unto the man, Stretch forth thine
hand. And he stretched it out: and his hand was restored whole as the other. [See
verses 1-4]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">John 2:14-16 [The
crowning example of Jesus' anger was when He found certain religionists robbing
and exploiting the poor in the Name of God:] And [Jesus] found in the temple
those that sold oxen and sheep and doves, and the changers of money sitting: 15
And when He had made a scourge [whip] of small cords, He drove them all out of
the temple, and the sheep, and the oxen; and poured out the changers' money,
and overthrew the tables; 16 And said unto them that sold doves, Take these
things hence; make not My Father's house an house of merchandise.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<body oncopy="return false" oncut="return false" onpaste="return false">...</body>Friedrich "Mike" Helmkehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16185159203043872595noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2155679425398921745.post-65842103555506746022016-12-16T12:38:00.001-08:002016-12-16T13:41:32.857-08:00APPRECIATION<u><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Definition</span></u><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">: Recognition of the quality, worth, or
significance of people and things.</span><br />
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US">1. In the Bible, the Lord
often expressed His appreciation by giving people credit, praising them for
their good qualities, or for making the right decisions.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Job 1:8 And the
Lord said unto Satan, Hast thou considered My servant Job, that there is none
like him in the earth, a perfect and an upright man, one that feareth God, and
escheweth evil?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Acts 13:22b And
[the Lord] said, I have found David the son of Jesse, a man after Mine Own
heart, which shall fulfil all My will.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">John 1:47 Jesus saw
Nathanael coming to Him, and saith of him, Behold an Israelite indeed, in whom
is no guile [deceit]!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Luke 7:9 [Referring
to the faith of the centurion whose servant Jesus healed:] When Jesus heard
these things, He marvelled at him, and turned Him about, and said unto the
people that followed Him, I say unto you, I have not found so great faith, no,
not in Israel.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Luke 16:8a [Jesus
even praised the unjust steward for his wisdom:] And the Lord commended the
unjust steward, because he had done wisely.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Matthew 15:22-28 [Jesus
praised the Canaanite woman who did not get offended at His hard saying:] And,
behold, a woman of Canaan came out of the same coasts, and cried unto Him,
saying, Have mercy on me, O Lord, Thou Son of David; my daughter is grievously
vexed with a devil. 23 But He answered her not a word. And His disciples came
and besought Him, saying, Send her away; for she crieth after us. 24 But He
answered and said, I am not sent but unto the lost sheep of the house of
Israel. 25 Then came she and worshipped Him, saying, Lord, help me. 26 But He
answered and said, It is not meet to take the children's bread, and to cast it
to dogs. 27 And she said, truth, Lord: yet the dogs eat of the crumbs which
fall from their masters' table. 28 Then Jesus answered and said unto her, O
woman, great is thy faith: be it unto thee even as thou wilt. And her daughter
was made whole from that very hour.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US">2. The Lord also commends us when we invest our
talents wisely to help others and further His Kingdom.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Matthew 25:21 [In
the Parable of the Talents, Jesus narrated:] His lord said unto him, Well done,
thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I
will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Luke 12:37 [Jesus
said:] Blessed are those servants, whom the lord when he cometh shall find
watching: verily I say unto you, that he shall gird himself, and make them to
sit down to meat, and will come forth and serve them.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Hebrews 6:10 For
God is not unrighteous to forget your work and labour of love, which ye have
shewed toward His Name, in that ye have ministered to the saints, and do
minister.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US">3. The Lord wants us also to show appreciation to others.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Proverbs 31:30b A
woman that feareth the Lord, she shall be praised.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Song of Solomon 6:9
My dove, my undefiled is but one; she is the only one of her mother, she is the
choice one of her that bare her. The daughters saw her, and blessed her; yea,
the queens and the concubines, and they praised her.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1 Samuel 15:6 [King
Saul remembered to show appreciation to foreign tribes for having shown
kindness to his forefathers] And Saul said unto the Kenites, Go, depart, get
you down from among the Amalekites, lest I destroy you with them: for ye shewed
kindness to all the children of Israel, when they came up out of Egypt. So the
Kenites departed from among the Amalekites.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1 Samuel 25:32-33 And
David said to Abigail, Blessed be the Lord God of Israel, which sent thee this
day to meet me: 33 And blessed be thy advice, and blessed be thou, which hast
kept me this day from coming to shed blood, and from avenging myself with mine
own hand.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">2 Samuel 10:2a Then
said David, I will shew kindness unto Hanun … as his father shewed kindness
unto me. And David sent to comfort him by the hand of his servants for his
father.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1 King 2:7 But shew
kindness unto the sons of Barzillai the Gileadite, and let them be of those
that eat at thy table: for so they came to me when I fled because of Absalom
thy brother.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Romans 13:7 Render
therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute is due; custom to whom
custom; fear to whom fear; honour to whom honour.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1 Thessalonians 5:18
In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus
concerning you.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Philippians 4:8 [Everyone
has some good qualities, so let's recognize them:] Finally, brethren,
whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are
just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever
things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise,
think on these things.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US">4. The Apostle Paul's
letters to the brethren were good samples of showing appreciation to others.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Romans 1:8 First, I
thank my God through Jesus Christ for you all, that your faith is spoken of
throughout the whole world.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Romans 16:1-2 I
commend unto you Phebe our sister, which is a servant of the church which is at
Cenchrea: 2 That ye receive her in the Lord, as becometh saints, and that ye
assist her in whatsoever business she hath need of you: for she hath been a
succourer of many, and of myself also.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1 Corinthians
16:15-18 [Paul makes mention of the family of Stephanus and his companions, who
were faithful in their missionary work]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">2 Corinthians 8:1-5
[Paul honors the church at Macedonia for their extreme generosity and devotion
to Paul's leadership] [See also Philippians 4:14-16]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">2 Corinthians
8:16-23 [Paul commends the faithfulness of Titus and his travelling companion,
who administered to the material needs of the Church]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Colossians 1:3-4 We
give thanks to God and the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, praying always for
you, 4 Since we heard of your faith in Christ Jesus, and of the love which ye
have to all the saints.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1 Thessalonians 1 [all]
[Paul writes to the brethren in Thessalonica:] 3 Remembering without ceasing
your work of faith, and labour of love, and patience of hope in our Lord Jesus
Christ, in the sight of God and our Father. … 7 Ye were ensamples to all that
believe in Macedonia and Achaia.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">2 Thessalonians
1:3,4 We are bound to thank God always for you, brethren, as it is meet,
because that your faith groweth exceedingly, and the charity of every one of
you all toward each other aboundeth; 4 So that we ourselves glory in you in the
churches of God for your patience and faith in all your persecutions and
tribulations that ye endure:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US">5. Other examples in the
Bible of showing appreciation:<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Genesis 41:39-41 [Pharaoh
showed his appreciation to Joseph for interpreting his dream and for Joseph's
wise counsel:] And Pharaoh said unto Joseph, Forasmuch as God hath shewed thee
all this, there is none so discreet and wise as thou art: 40 Thou shalt be over
my house, and according unto thy word shall all my people be ruled: only in the
throne will I be greater than thou. 41 And Pharaoh said unto Joseph, See, I
have set thee over all the land of Egypt. [See also Genesis 41:1-43]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Exodus 2:11-21 [Reuel,
the priest of Midian, scolded his daughters for not showing appreciation to
Moses, who had helped them draw water:] 20 And he said unto his daughters, And
where is he? Why is it that ye have left the man? Call him, that he may eat
bread.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Ruth 3:10 [Boaz
expressed his appreciation toRuth for her unselfish devotion:] 10 And he said,
Blessed be thou of the Lord, my daughter: for thou hast shewed more kindness in
the latter end than at the beginning, inasmuch as thou followedst not young
men, whether poor or rich. [See all of chapter 3]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Nehemiah 7:2 I gave
my brother Hanani, and Hananiah the ruler of the palace, charge over Jerusalem:
for he was a faithful man, and feared God above many.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Esther 6:11b [King
Ahasuerus showed his appreciation to Mordecai for unveiling the plot against
the king's life by having Mordecai dressed in royal apparel and paraded through
the city:] Thus shall it be done to the man whom the king delighteth to honour.
[See also Esther 6:1-11]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1 King 13:1-7 [King
Jeroboam of Judah was appreciative of the young prophet who had asked the Lord
to restore the repentant king's hand:] 4 And it came to pass, when king
Jeroboam heard the saying of the man of God, which had cried against the altar
in Bethel, that he put forth his hand from the altar, saying, Lay hold on him.
And his hand, which he put forth against him, dried up, so that he could not
pull it in again to him. … 6 And the king answered and said unto the man of
God, intreat now the face of the Lord thy God, and pray for me, that my hand
may be restored me again. And the man of God besought the Lord, and the king's
hand was restored him again, and became as it was before. 7 And the king said
unto the man of God, Come home with me, and refresh thyself, and I will give
thee a reward.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">2 Kings 5:15 [After
Naaman was cleansed of leprosy, he showed his appreciation to the prophet
Elisha by offering him a reward:]<span class="apple-converted-space"><i> </i></span>And
he returned to the man of God, he and all his company, and said, Behold, now I
know that there is no God in all the earth, but in Israel: now therefore, I
pray thee, take a blessing of thy servant. [See also 2 Kings 5:1-19]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">[See also
Revelation chapters 2 and 3 for a wonderful example of how the Lord
faithfully shows appreciation for good qualities, even when convicting us about
our errors]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US">6. We should never fail to
show our appreciation to the Lord by praising Him for all He has done
for us.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Deuteronomy 8:10,11
[Moses exhorts:] When thou hast eaten and art full, then thou shalt bless the
Lord thy God for the good land which He hath given thee. 11 Beware that thou
forget not the Lord thy God, in not keeping His commandments, and His
judgements, and His statutes, which I command thee this day.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Psalm 103:2 Bless
the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits. [See also Psalm 105:5]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Psalm 107:8 Oh that
men would praise the Lord for His goodness, and for His wonderful works to the
children of men!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Psalm 116:12-14 What
shall I render unto the Lord for all His benefits toward me? 13 I will take the
cup of Salvation, and call upon the Name of the Lord. 14 I will pay my vows
unto the Lord now in the presence of all His people.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Luke 1:46-48 And
Mary said, My soul doth magnify the Lord, 47 And my spirit hath rejoiced in God
my Saviour. 48 For He hath regarded the low estate of His handmaiden: for,
behold, from henceforth all generations shall call me blessed. [See also verses
49-55]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Luke 17:15-19 [After
Jesus healed the ten lepers, only<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><u>one</u><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>expressed appreciation:] And one of
them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, and with a loud voice
glorified God, 16 And fell down on his face at His feet, giving Him thanks: and
he was a Samaritan, 17 And Jesus answering said, Were there not ten cleansed?
But where are the nine? 18 There are not found that returned to give glory to
God, save this stranger. 19 And He said unto him, Arise, go thy way: thy faith
hath made thee whole.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Hebrews 13:15 By
Him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is,
the fruit of our lips giving thanks to His Name.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<body oncopy="return false" oncut="return false" onpaste="return false">...</body>Friedrich "Mike" Helmkehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16185159203043872595noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2155679425398921745.post-87303502588042969832016-12-16T12:37:00.000-08:002016-12-16T13:42:23.783-08:00AUSTERITY<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<u><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Definition</span></u><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">:<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>In
the context of Lord's service austerity is a manner of life characterized by
simplicity, moderation and restraint in material concerns.</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US">1. Austerity-mindedness
means valuing what the Lord provides
and not being wasteful.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Proverbs 12:27 The
slothful man roasteth not that which he took in hunting: but the substance of a
diligent man is precious.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Proverbs 21:20 [It
is wise to be saving, foolish to be wasteful] There is treasure to be desired
and oil in the dwelling of the wise; but a foolish man spendeth it up.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Proverbs 29:3 Whoso
loveth wisdom rejoiceth his father: but he that keepeth company with harlots
spendeth his substance.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Luke 15:11-13 [The
parable of the Prodigal Son:] And He said, A certain man had two sons: 12 And the
younger of them said to his father, Father, give me the portion of goods that
falleth to me. And he divided unto them his living. 13 And not many days after
the younger son gathered all together, and took his journey into a far country,
and there wasted his substance with riotous living.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">John 6:12 [Jesus
set the example by not being wasteful with material things] When they were
filled, He said unto His disciples, Gather up the fragments that remain, that
nothing be lost.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1 Corinthians 7:31a
And they that use this world, as not abusing [misusing] it.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US">2. Being austerity-minded
helps to you to be prepared for difficult times.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Genesis
41:29,30,34,36 [Joseph instructs Pharaoh to prepare for coming drought and
consequent famine at a time when things are going well:] Behold, there come
seven years of great plenty throughout all the land of Egypt: 30 And there
shall arise after them seven years of famine; and all the plenty shall be
forgotten in the land of Egypt; and the famine shall consume the land; 34 Let
Pharaoh do this, and let him appoint officers over the land, and take up the
fifth part of the land of Egypt in the seven plenteous years. 36 And that food
shall be for store to the land against the seven years of famine, which shall
be in the land of Egypt; that the land perish not through the famine. [SeeGenesis
41 : all]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Proverbs 6:6-8 Go
to the ant, thou sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise: 7 Which having no
guide, overseer, or ruler, 8 provideth her meat in the summer, and gathereth
her food in the harvest <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Proverbs 21:20 There
is treasure to be desired and oil in the dwelling of the wise; but a foolish
man spendeth it up.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Proverbs 22:3 A
prudent man foreseeth the evil, and hideth himself: but the simple pass on, and
are punished [suffer for it].<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US">3. Austerity is part of
good stewardship.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Proverbs 10:4 He
becometh poor that dealeth with a slack hand: but the hand of the diligent
maketh rich.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Matthew 24:45,46 [God
blesses faithfulness with material things] Who then is a faithful and wise
servant, whom his Lord hath made ruler over His household, to give them meat in
due season? 46 Blessed is that servant, whom his Lord when He cometh shall find
so doing.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Matthew 25:21,29 His
lord said unto him, Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been
faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou
into the joy of thy lord. 29 For unto every one that hath [things gained
through faithfulness and good stewardship] shall be given, and he shall have
abundance: but from him that hath not [through laziness and waste] shall be
taken away even that which he hath.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Genesis 41:38-41 [When
Joseph interpreted Pharaoh's dream, and warned him of hard times ahead and
advised him to appoint a faithful steward as economic czar:] Pharaoh said unto
his servants, Can we find such a one as this is, a man in whom the Spirit of
God is? 39 And Pharaoh said unto Joseph, Forasmuch as God hath shewed thee all
this, there is none so discreet and wise as thou art: 40 Thou shalt be over my
house, and according unto thy word shall all my people be ruled: only in the
throne will I be greater than thou. 41 And Pharaoh said unto Joseph, See, I
have set thee over all the land of Egypt. [See Genesis 41 : all]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Luke 16:1,2 [Those
who are wasteful lose God's blessings] And He said also unto His disciples, There was a certain
rich man, which had a steward; and the same was accused unto him that he had
wasted his goods. 2 And he called him, and said unto him, How is it that I hear
this of thee? Give an account of thy stewardship; for thou mayest be no longer
steward.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Luke 16:10-12 He
that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much: and he that is unjust in the
least is unjust also in much. 11 If
therefore ye have not been faithful in the unrighteous mammon, who will commit
to your trust the true riches? 12 And if ye have not been faithful in that
which is another man's, who shall give you that which is your own?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1 Corinthians 4:2 Moreover
it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US">4. Austerity-mindedness
requires a sense of moderation.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Proverbs 25:16 Hast
thou found honey? Eat so much as is sufficient for thee, lest thou be filled
therewith, and vomit it.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Proverbs 30:7-9 [Solomon
prayed:] Two things have I required of Thee; deny me them not before I die: 8
Remove far from me vanity and lies: give me neither poverty nor riches; feed me
with food convenient for me: 9 Lest I be full, and deny thee, and say, Who is
the Lord? Or lest I be poor, and steal, and take the Name of my God in vain.
Give me neither poverty nor riches; feed me with food convenient for me.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Romans 13:14 But
put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to
fulfil the lusts thereof.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Philippians 4:5 Let
your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US">5. To be austerity-minded,
it helps to be content with what the Lord supplies.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Matthew 6:11 Give
us this day our daily bread.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Philippians 4:11,12
Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I
am, therewith to be content. 12 I know both how to be abased, and I know how to
abound: every where and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be
hungry, both to abound and to suffer need.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1 Timothy 6:6-8 But
Godliness with contentment is great gain. 7 For we brought nothing into this
world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. 8 And having food and
raiment let us be therewith content.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Hebrews 13:5 Let
your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as
ye have: for He hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US">6. In the Lord's service,
putting His work above our own material needs comes naturally.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Matthew 6:24,25 No
man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other;
or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and
mammon. 25 Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye
shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on.
Is not the life more than meat, and the body than raiment? … 33 But seek ye
first the Kingdom of God, and His righteousness; and all these things shall be
added unto you.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">John 4:34 Jesus
saith unto them, My meat is to do the will of Him that sent Me, and to finish
His work.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Acts 20:24 But none
of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I
might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the
Lord Jesus, to testify the Gospel of the grace of God.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Philippians 3:8 Yea
doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge
of Christ Jesus my Lord: for Whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and
do count them but dung, that I may win Christ.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US">7. Time is our most
valuable resource, so redeeming the time is
also part of austerity.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Proverbs 18:9 He also that is slothful in his work is brother
to him that is a great waster.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">John 9:4 I must
work the works of Him that sent Me, while it is day: the night cometh, when no
man can work.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1 Corinthians 7:29a
But this I say, brethren, the time is short.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Ephesians 5:15,16 See
then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, 16 Redeeming the
time, because the days are evil.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Colossians 4:5 Walk
in wisdom toward them that are without, redeeming the time.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">James 4:14-15 Whereas
ye know not what shall be on the morrow. For what is your life? It is even a
vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away. 15 For that
ye ought to say, If the Lord will, we shall live, and do this, or that.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Romans 13:11-12 And
that, knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep: for now
is our Salvation nearer than when we believed. 12 The night is far spent, the
day is at hand: let us therefore cast off the works of darkness, and let us put
on the armour of light.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<body oncopy="return false" oncut="return false" onpaste="return false">...</body>Friedrich "Mike" Helmkehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16185159203043872595noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2155679425398921745.post-62651625204970166602016-12-16T12:35:00.001-08:002016-12-16T13:43:32.118-08:00BAD COMPANY<span class="apple-converted-space"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;"> </span></span><span class="apple-converted-space"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> </span></span><u><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Definition</span></u><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">:</span><span class="apple-converted-space"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> </span></span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Friendships or partnerships which have negative effects upon our
attitudes, actions, or physical or spiritual well-being.</span><br />
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US">1. We are influenced,
for better or for worse, by those with whom we associate.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Proverbs 13:20 He
that walketh with wise men shall be wise: but a companion of fools shall be
destroyed.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1 Corinthians 15:33
Be not deceived: evil communications [companions] corrupt good manners.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Galatians 5:7-9 [The
influence of bad company can be disastrous] Ye did run well; who did hinder you
that ye should not obey the truth? 8 This persuasion cometh not of Him that
calleth you. 9 A little leaven leaveneth the whole lump.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US">2. We should
associate with those by whom we will be influenced for the good.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Psalm 119:63 I am a
companion of all them that fear Thee, and of them that keep Thy precepts.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Proverbs 2:20 Walk
in the way of good men, and keep the paths of the righteous.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Proverbs 15:31 The
ear that heareth the reproof of life abideth among the wise.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US">3. God's Word likens
bad associations to "snares" or traps set by the Devil.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Exodus 23:33 [As
the children of Israel entered the Promised Land, God was specific in
commanding them not to associate with the heathen living there:] They shall not
dwell in thy land, lest they make thee sin against Me: for if thou serve their
gods, it will surely be a</span><span class="apple-converted-space"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> </span></span><u><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">snare</span></u><span class="apple-converted-space"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> </span></span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">unto thee. [See also </span><span class="apple-converted-space"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Numbers
</span></span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">33:52]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Exodus 34:12 Take
heed to thyself, lest thou make a covenant with the inhabitants of the land
whither thou goest, lest it be for a snare in the midst of thee.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Deuteronomy 12:30 Take
heed to thyself that thou be not snared by following [unbelievers], after that
they be destroyed from before thee; and that thou inquire not after their gods,
saying, How did these nations serve their gods? Even so will I do likewise.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Psalm 106:34-43 [Here
is what resulted when God's people didn't keep themselves separate from their
worldly neighbors, whom the Lord forbade them to live with:] They did not
destroy the nations, concerning whom the Lord commanded them: 35 But were
mingled among the heathen, and learned their works. 36 And they served their
idols: which were a snare unto them. 37 Yea, they sacrificed their sons and
their daughters unto devils.… 39 Thus were they defiled with their own works.…
40 Therefore was the wrath of the Lord kindled against His people, insomuch
that He abhorred His own inheritance. 41 And He gave them into the hand of the
heathen; and they that hated them ruled over them. 42 Their enemies also oppressed
them, and they were brought into subjection under their hand. 43 Many times did
He deliver them; but they provoked Him with their counsel, and were brought low
for their iniquity.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Proverbs 22:5 Thorns
and snares are in the way of the froward [false, perverse]: he that doth keep
his soul shall be far from them.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US">4. Bad associations
can cause us to compromise our convictions.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Proverbs 12:26 The
righteous is more excellent than his neighbour: but the way of the wicked
seduceth them.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Proverbs 16:29 A
violent man enticeth his neighbour, and leadeth him into the way that is not
good.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Proverbs 19:27 [Overexposure
to worldly counsel and the media, such as music, movies and TV, can lead you
astray] Cease, my son, to hear the instruction that causeth to err from the
words of knowledge.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Proverbs 22:24,25 Make
no friendship with an angry man; and with a furious man thou shalt not go: 25
Lest thou learn his ways, and get a snare to thy soul.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Ecclesiastes 9:18b One
sinner destroyeth much good.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1 Corinthians 5:6b Know
ye not that a little leaven leaveneth the whole lump?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US">5. The Enemy tempts
us by making the way of the ungodly appear desirable -- but consider
their end!<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Proverbs 24:1 Be
not thou envious against evil men, neither desire to be with them.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Psalm 37:1b,2</span><span class="apple-converted-space"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> [</span></span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Remember, the
"good things" that the ungodly seem to be enjoying now are only</span><span class="apple-converted-space"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> </span></span><u><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">temporary</span></u><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">:] Neither be thou envious against the workers of iniquity. 2 For they
shall soon be cut down like the grass, and wither as the green herb.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Psalm 73:3,17,18 For
I was envious at the foolish, when I saw the prosperity of the wicked … 17
Until I went into the sanctuary of God; then understood I their end. 18 Surely
Thou didst set them in slippery places: Thou castedst them down into
destruction.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Psalm 141:4 Incline
not my heart to any evil thing, to practice wicked works with men that work
iniquity: and let me not eat of their dainties.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Proverbs 23:6 Eat
thou not the bread of him that hath an evil eye, neither desire thou his dainty
meats. 7 For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he: Eat and drink, saith he to
thee; but his heart is not with thee.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US">6. We need conviction
to separate ourselves from ungodly, unfruitful associations.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Psalm 1:1 Blessed
is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the
way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful. [See also Genesis 49:6a]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Psalm 26:4,5 I have
not sat with vain persons, neither will I go in with dissemblers. 5 I have
hated the congregation of evil doers; and will not sit with the wicked.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Psalm 84:10 For a
day in Thy courts is better than a thousand. I had rather be a doorkeeper in
the house of my God, than to dwell in the tents of wickedness.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Psalm 101:4,7 A
froward [stubbornly contrary, disobedient] heart shall depart from me: I will
not know a wicked person.… 7 He that worketh deceit shall not dwell within my
house: he that telleth lies shall not tarry in my sight.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Psalm 119:115 Depart
from me, ye evildoers: for I will keep the commandments of my God.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Psalm 139:19-22 Surely
Thou wilt slay the wicked, O God: depart from me therefore, ye bloody men. 20
For they speak against Thee wickedly, and Thine enemies take Thy Name in vain.
21 Do not I hate them, O Lord, that hate Thee? And am not I grieved with those
that rise up against Thee? 22 I hate them with perfect hatred: I count them
mine enemies.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Proverbs 1:10,15 My
son, if sinners entice thee, consent thou not.… 15 My son, walk not thou in the
way with them; refrain thy foot from their path.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Proverbs 9:6 Forsake
the foolish, and live; and go in the way of understanding.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">2 Corinthians
6:14,17 Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what
fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? And what communion hath
light with darkness? … 17 Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye
separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive
you.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Ephesians 5:11 And
have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove
them.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Revelation 18:4 And
I heard another voice from Heaven, saying, Come out of her [Babylon], My
people, that ye be not partakers of her sins, and that ye receive not of her
plagues. [See also Jeremiah 51:6]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US">7. If we continue to
keep bad company, we will be punished with them.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Genesis 13:12,13; 2
Peter 2:7,8 [Lot chose to live a life of ease in the wicked city of Sodom and suffered
the consequences; he lost his wife and troubled his own soul:] Abram dwelled in
the land of Canaan, and Lot dwelled in the cities of the plain, and pitched his
tent toward Sodom. 13 But the men of Sodom were wicked and sinners before the
Lord exceedingly. [Although God delivered Lot out of Sodom, he suffered from
having lived with them for many years:]</span><span class="apple-converted-space"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> </span></span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">2 Peter 2:7,8 And
[God] delivered just Lot, vexed with the filthy conversation of the wicked: 8
(For that righteous man dwelling among them, in</span><span class="apple-converted-space"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> </span></span><u><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">seeing
and hearing</span></u><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">,</span><span class="apple-converted-space"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> </span></span><u><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">vexed</span></u><span class="apple-converted-space"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> </span></span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">his righteous soul from day to day with their unlawful deeds;) (See
Genesis chapter 19)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Numbers 16:26 [Moses
warned his brethren not to associate with those who sowed dissension in the
ranks of the Children of Israel] And he spake unto the congregation, saying,
Depart, I pray you, from the tents of these wicked men, and touch nothing of
theirs, lest ye be consumed in all their sins. [The Lord later destroyed them,
see verses 31-35]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">2 Chronicles 19:2b Shouldest
thou help the ungodly, and love them that hate the Lord? Therefore is wrath
upon thee from before the Lord.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Ezra 9:14 Should we
again break Thy commandments, and join in affinity with the people of these
abominations? Wouldest not Thou be angry with us till Thou hadst consumed us,
so that there should be no remnant nor escaping?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Proverbs 21:16 The
man that wandereth out of the way of understanding shall remain in the
congregation of the dead. [See also Proverbs 27:8]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Proverbs 28:19b He
that followeth after vain persons shall have poverty enough.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Ephesians 5:6-8 Let
no man deceive you with vain words: for because of these things cometh the
wrath of God upon the children of disobedience. 7 Be not ye therefore partakers
with them. 8 For ye were sometimes darkness, but now are ye light in the Lord:
walk as children of light:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">2John 1:10,11 If
there come any unto you, and bring not this doctrine, receive him not into your
house, neither bid him God speed: 11 For he that biddeth him God speed is
partaker of his evil deeds.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US">8. We should not even
associate with other Christians who persist in being wilfully disobedient.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Romans 16:17 Now I
beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to
the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them. [See also Matthew 18:15-17]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1 Corinthians 5:11 But
now I have written unto you not to keep company, if any man that is called a
brother be a fornicator, or covetous, or an idolater, or a railer, or a
drunkard, or an extortioner; with such an one no not to eat.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">2 Thessalonians 3:6
Now we command you, brethren, in the Name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye
withdraw yourselves from every brother that walketh disorderly, and not after
the tradition which he received of us.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">2 Thessalonians
3:14,15 And if any man obey not our word by this epistle, note that man, and
have no company with him, that he may be ashamed. 15 Yet count him not as an
enemy, but admonish [gently warn or reprove] him as a brother.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1 Timothy 6:3-5 If
any man teach otherwise, and consent not to wholesome words, even the Words of
our Lord Jesus Christ, and to the doctrine which is according to Godliness; 4
He is proud, knowing nothing, but doting about questions and strifes of words,
whereof cometh envy, strife, railings, evil surmisings, 5 Perverse disputings
of men of corrupt minds, and destitute of the truth, supposing that gain is
godliness: from such withdraw thyself.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">2 Timothy 3:5 [In
the Last Days, some men will be] having a form of Godliness, but denying the
power thereof: from such turn away.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Titus 3:10 A man
that is an heretick [one who sows dissension, or holds to false beliefs] after
the first and second admonition reject.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">2 Peter 2:18-22 For
when they speak great swelling words of vanity, they allure through the lusts
of the flesh, through much wantonness, those that were clean escaped from them
who live in error. 19 While they promise them liberty, they themselves are the
servants of corruption: for of whom a man is overcome, of the same is he
brought in bondage. 20 For if after they have escaped the pollutions of the
world through the knowledge of the Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, they are
again entangled therein, and overcome, the latter end is worse with them than
the beginning. 21 For it had been better for them not to have known the way of
righteousness, than, after they have known it, to turn from the holy
commandment delivered unto them. 22 But it is happened unto them according to
the true proverb, The dog is turned to his own vomit again; and the sow that
was washed to her wallowing in the mire.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US">9. Pray for the
Lord's help, wisdom and discernment to escape the snare of bad associations.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Genesis 49:6 [The
patriarch, Jacob, even prayed that he wouldn't listen to the bad counsel of his
own errant sons, Simeon and Levi:] O my soul, come not thou into their secret;
unto their assembly, mine honour, be not thou united: for in their anger they
slew a man, and in their selfwill they digged down a wall.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Psalm 56:13 For
Thou hast delivered my soul from death: wilt not Thou deliver my feet from
falling, that I may walk before God in the light of the living?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Psalm 141:4 [King
David prayed:] Incline not my heart to any evil thing, to practise wicked works
with men that work iniquity: and let me not eat of their dainties.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Psalm 119:51 The
proud have had me greatly in derision: yet have I not declined from Thy law.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Proverbs 2:11,12 Discretion
shall preserve thee, understanding shall keep thee: 12 To deliver thee from the
way of the evil man, from the man that speaketh froward things.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Proverbs 9:6 Forsake
the foolish, and live; and go in the way of understanding.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Proverbs 14:7 Go
from the presence of a foolish man, when thou perceivest not in him the lips of
knowledge.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Matthew 6:13 And
lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For Thine is the
Kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
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<body oncopy="return false" oncut="return false" onpaste="return false">...</body>Friedrich "Mike" Helmkehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16185159203043872595noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2155679425398921745.post-86722426383637505332016-12-16T12:34:00.003-08:002016-12-21T01:07:33.050-08:00BAD PICTURES, EVIL IMAGNATION<u><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Definition</span></u><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">: Bad pictures can be defined as thoughts
involving oneself and/or others, accompanied by mental pictures having
negative, violent, destructive, or perverted themes. The Bible often refers to
this as evil imagination.</span><br />
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">1. At some time or another we are tempted with
bad mental pictures.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Genesis 8:21a [Evil thoughts or pictures
can be a product of our sinful nature] And the Lord smelled a sweet savour; and
the Lord said in His heart, I will not again curse the ground any more for
man's sake; for the imagination of man's heart is evil from his youth. [See
also 6:5; Mark 7:21-23]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Jeremiah 17:9 The heart is deceitful above
all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Romans 8:7 [Bad thoughts or pictures can
come from our sinful carnal minds] Because the carnal mind is enmity [hostile]
against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">1 Corinthians 10:13 There hath no
temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, Who
will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the
temptation also make a way to escape,
that ye may be able to bear it.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">2. It is not necessarily a sin when bad thoughts
or pictures enter our minds, only if we yield to or entertain them.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Job 15:12,13 Why doth thine heart carry
thee away? And what do thy eyes wink at, 13 That thou turnest thy spirit
against God, and lettest such words go out of thy mouth? [See also Proverbs
4:23]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Isaiah 55:7 Let the wicked <u>forsake</u> his
way, and the unrighteous man his <u>thoughts</u>: and let him return unto
the Lord, and He will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for He will
abundantly pardon.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Jonah 2:8 They that observe lying vanities
forsake their own mercy.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Romans 6:13 Neither yield ye your members
as instruments of unrighteousness unto sin: but yield yourselves unto God, as
those that are alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of
righteousness unto God.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Romans 8:1 There is therefore now no
condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh,
but after the Spirit.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">James 1:13-15 Let no man say when he is
tempted, I am tempted of God: for God cannot be tempted with evil, neither
tempteth He any man: 14 But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his
own lust, and enticed. 15 Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth
forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">3. Evil pictures and imaginations are often be
inspired by the Enemy.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Genesis 3:1-6 [The Devil put thoughts in
Eve's mind, subtly convincing her to disobey] Now the serpent was more subtil
than any beast of the field which the Lord God had made. And he said unto the
woman, Yea, hath God said, Ye shall not eat of every tree of the garden? 2 And
the woman said unto the serpent, We may eat of the fruit of the trees of the
garden: 3 But of the fruit of the tree which is in the midst of the garden, God
hath said, Ye shall not eat of it, neither shall ye touch it, lest ye die. 4
And the serpent said unto the woman, Ye shall not surely die: 5 For God doth
know that in the day ye eat thereof, then your eyes shall be opened, and ye
shall be as gods, knowing good and evil. 6 And when the woman saw that the tree
was good for food, and that it was pleasant to the eyes, and a tree to be desired
to make one wise, she took of the fruit thereof, and did eat, and gave also unto her husband with her; and he did
eat.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Luke 22:31,32a And the Lord said, Simon,
Simon, behold, Satan hath desired to have you, that he may sift you as wheat.
32a But I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">John 8:44b [The Devil is the "father
of lies."] He was a murderer from the beginning, and abode not in the
truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaketh a lie, he speaketh of
his own: for he is a liar, and the father of it.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">1 Timothy 4:1 [Demonic influences are
stronger in the Latter Days, especially to those who listen to them!] Now the
Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the Latter Times some shall depart from the
faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">1 Peter 5:8,9a Be sober, be vigilant;
because your adversary the Devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking
whom he may devour. 9a Whom resist stedfast in the faith.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">4. Here are some attitudes which are fertile
ground for evil thoughts and imaginings:<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">1 Samuel 18:7-9 [<u>Envy</u> or <u>jealousy</u> can
motivate the heart to imagine evil against others without valid reason:] And
the women answered one another as they played, and said, Saul hath slain his
thousands, and David his ten thousands. 8 And Saul was very wroth, and the
saying displeased him; and he said, They have ascribed unto David ten
thousands, and to me they have ascribed but thousands: and what can he have
more but the kingdom? 9 And Saul eyed David from that day and forward. [Later
he even tried to kill David several times] [See also Acts 13:45; Proverbs 27:4]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Jeremiah 7:24 [<u>Backsliding</u>:] But
they hearkened not, nor inclined their ear, but walked in the counsels and in
the imagination of their evil heart, and went backward, and not forward. [See
also Deuteronomy 29:18,19]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Zechariah 7:10b [<u>Rebelliousness</u> is
an inroad for evil:] And let none of you imagine evil against his brother in
your heart. 11 But they refused to hearken, and pulled away the shoulder,
and stopped their ears, that they should not hear. [See also 8:17; Jeremiah
18:11,12]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Acts 8:22,23 [<u>Bitterness</u> usually
gives rise to evil imaginings] Repent therefore of this thy wickedness, and
pray God, if perhaps the thought of thine heart may be forgiven thee. 23 For I
perceive that thou art in the gall of bitterness, and in the bond of iniquity.
[See also Job 7:11; Hebrews 12:15]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Psalm 36:4 [<u>When we don't hate evil</u>,
we're open to thinking the Enemy's thoughts] He [the wicked] deviseth mischief
upon his bed; he setteth himself in a way that is not good; he abhorreth not
evil.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Luke 1:51b [<u>Pride</u> and <u>self-righteousness</u>:]
He [God] hath scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">2 Thessalonians 2:10,11 [<u>Lack of
receptivity</u> to the truth:] And with all deceivableness of
unrighteousness in them that perish; because they received not the love of the
truth, that they might be saved. 11 And for this cause God shall send them
strong delusion, that they should believe a lie.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">5. Sometimes the Enemy gives us bad pictures and
imaginings to try and weaken us through fear.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">2 Timothy 1:7 For God hath not given us
the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Psalm 27:1 The Lord is my light and my
Salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the strength of my life; of whom
shall I be afraid?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Psalm 112:7 He shall not be afraid of evil
tidings [or pictures]: his heart is fixed, trusting in the Lord.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Proverbs 3:25a,26 Be not afraid of sudden
fear. … 26 For the Lord shall be thy confidence, and shall keep thy foot from
being taken.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">2 Kings 6:17 [Ask the Lord to open the
eyes of your spirit to the realities of His <u>good</u> Spirit World
which is fighting <u>with</u> you and <u>for</u> you] And
Elisha prayed, and said, Lord, I pray Thee, open his eyes, that he may see. And
the Lord opened the eyes of the young man; and he saw: and, behold, the
mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire round about Elisha.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">6. We must learn to recognize the Devil's
broadcasts and "change channels" immediately!<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">1 John 4:1a Beloved, believe not every
spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Matthew 26:41 Watch and pray, that ye
enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">2 Corinthians 10:3-5 For though we walk in
the flesh, we do not war after the flesh: 4 (For the weapons of our warfare are
not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;) 5
Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against
the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the
obedience of Christ.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">1 Peter 1:13a Wherefore gird up the loins
of your mind, be sober.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">7. Avoid being exposed to the Devil's propaganda
and dirty work through polluting videos, TV shows or reading material.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Psalm 101:3 I will set no wicked thing
before mine eyes: I hate the work of them that turn aside; it shall not cleave
to me.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Psalm 119:37 Turn away mine eyes from
beholding vanity; and quicken Thou me in Thy way.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Proverbs 4:25 Let thine eyes look right
on, and let thine eyelids look straight before thee.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Isaiah 33:15,16 He that … shutteth his
eyes from seeing evil; 16 He shall dwell on high: his place of defence shall be
the munitions of rocks: bread shall be given him; his waters shall be sure.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Romans 12:9b Abhor that which is evil;
cleave to that which is good.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">8. Meditating on Jesus and His Word leaves no
room for evil pictures.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Deuteronomy 11:18 Therefore shall ye lay
up these my words [Moses' exhortation to obey the Lord] in your heart and in
your soul, and bind them for a sign upon your hand, that they may be as
frontlets between your eyes.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Psalm 1:2 But his delight is in the law of
the Lord; and in His law doth he meditate day and night.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Psalm 19:14 Let the words of my mouth, and
the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in Thy sight, O Lord, my strength,
and my redeemer.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Psalm 104:34 My meditation of Him shall be
sweet: I will be glad in the Lord.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Isaiah 26:3 Thou wilt keep him in perfect
peace, whose mind is stayed on Thee: because he trusteth in Thee.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">1 Timothy 4:15 Meditate upon these things;
give thyself wholly to them; that thy profiting may appear to all.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">9. Once we determine in our hearts
to resist the Enemy's evil pictures, the Lord promises us absolute, total
victory over the powers of darkness.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Isaiah 59:19b When the Enemy shall come in
like a flood, the Spirit of the Lord shall lift up a standard against him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Matthew 10:1a And when He had called unto
Him His twelve disciples, He gave them power against unclean spirits, to cast
them out.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Matthew 18:18 Verily I say unto you,
Whatsoever ye shall bind on earth shall be bound in Heaven: and whatsoever ye
shall loose on earth shall be loosed in Heaven.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Luke 11:34-36 The light of the body is the
eye: therefore when thine eye is single, thy whole body also is full of light; but when thine eye is
evil, thy body also is full of darkness.
35 Take heed therefore that the light which is in thee be not darkness. 36 If
thy whole body therefore be full of light, having no part dark, the whole shall
be full of light, as when the bright shining of a candle doth give thee light.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">2 Peter 2:9a The Lord knoweth how to
deliver the godly out of temptations.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">1 John 2:14b [Power to overcome the Devil
comes from the <u>Word</u>:] 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.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">1 John 4:4 Ye are of God, little children,
and have overcome them: because greater is He that is in you, than he that is
in the world</span><span lang="EN-US">.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
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<body oncopy="return false" oncut="return false" onpaste="return false">...</body>Friedrich "Mike" Helmkehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16185159203043872595noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2155679425398921745.post-91231066348541142312016-12-16T12:32:00.001-08:002016-12-19T08:51:54.166-08:00BEAUTY<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><u><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Definition</span></u><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">: Those qualities that delight or give pleasure to the
eye, ear, mind or heart; loveliness; elegance; a particular grace or charm.</span></span><br />
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1. Real beauty is on
the inside.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1 Samuel 16:7b For the Lord seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on
the outward appearance, but the Lord looketh on the heart.</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Psalm 45:13a The king's daughter is all glorious <u>within</u>.</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Isaiah 28:5 [<u>True</u> beauty, the beauty that God bestows upon
His children by His Spirit, is <u>eternal</u>] In that day shall the Lord
of hosts be for a crown of glory, and for a diadem [crown] of beauty, unto the
residue of His people.</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1 Peter 3:3,4 [The key to true beauty:] Whose adorning let it not be
that outward adorning of plaiting the hair, and of wearing of gold, or of
putting on of apparel; 4 But let it be the <u>hidden man of the heart</u>,
in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit,
which is in the sight of God of great price.</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">2. "Eyes are the
windows of the soul," it has been said, and it is through your eyes that
the beauty of your spirit, the real you, shines through.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Matthew 6:22 The light of the body is the eye: if therefore thine eye be
single, thy whole body shall be full of light. [See also Luke 11:36]</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Matthew 5:14-16 [Our eyes should radiate happiness and the joy of the
Lord] Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be
hid. 15 Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a
candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house. 16 Let your
light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your
Father which is in Heaven.</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Proverbs 15:13a [The joy of the Lord is the best "makeup,"] A
merry <u>heart</u> maketh a cheerful countenance.</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">3. Spiritual beauty, or
beauty of character, is far better to seek after than mere physical beauty.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Psalm 149:4 For the Lord taketh pleasure in His people: He will beautify
the meek with Salvation.</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Proverbs 31:30 Favour is deceitful, and beauty is vain: but a woman that
feareth the Lord, she shall be praised.</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Proverbs 11:16a A <u>gracious</u> woman retaineth honour.</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Proverbs 11:22 [Beauty without godly behaviour couldn't be any less
appealing] As a jewel of gold in a swine's snout, so is a fair woman which is
without discretion.</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Isaiah 53:2a He hath no form nor comeliness; and when we shall see Him,
there is no beauty that we should desire Him.</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Isaiah 61:3,10 [God is the giver of true beauty] To appoint unto them
that mourn in Zion, to give unto them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for
mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; that they might be
called trees of righteousness, the planting of the Lord, that He might be
glorified… 10 I will greatly rejoice in the Lord, my soul shall be joyful in my
God; for He hath clothed me with the garments of Salvation, He hath covered me
with the robe of righteousness, as a bridegroom decketh himself with ornaments,
and as a bride adorneth herself with her jewels.</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">4. The closer we live to
the Lord, our outward appearance will also
be transformed and become more beautiful.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Exodus 34:29 [When Moses went up on the mountain to see the Lord, he
returned even visibly changed so that the people were amazed] And it came to
pass, when Moses came down from Mount Sinai with the two tables of testimony 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.</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Job 29:14 I put on <u>righteousness</u>, and it clothed me:
my <u>judgment</u> was as a robe and a diadem [crown].</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Psalm 96:6,9 Honour and majesty are before Him: strength and beauty are
in His sanctuary.… 9 O worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness: fear before
Him, all the earth.</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Proverbs 1:9 For they [instruction and teaching] shall be an ornament of
grace unto thy head, and chains about thy neck.</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Proverbs 4:9 She [wisdom] shall give to thine head an ornament of grace:
a crown of glory shall she deliver to thee.</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Ecclesiastes 8:1b A man's <u>wisdom</u> maketh his face to
shine, and the boldness of his face shall be changed.</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Isaiah 52:7 [Our beauty is enhanced whenever we share God's love with
others] How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him that bringeth good
tidings, that publisheth peace; that bringeth good tidings of good, that
publisheth Salvation; that saith unto Zion, Thy God reigneth! [See also Daniel 12:3]</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Acts 6:15 [Stephen, one of the first martyrs of the Early Church, was
transformed by the Lord as he witnessed] And all that sat in the council,
looking stedfastly on him, saw his face as it had been the face of an angel.</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">2 Corinthians 3:18 But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass
the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory,
even as by the Spirit of the Lord.</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">5. Physical beauty is
temporal.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Jeremiah 4:30b In vain shalt thou make thyself fair.</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Job 15:31 Let not him that is deceived trust in vanity: for vanity shall
be his recompence.</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Psalm 39:11 When Thou with rebukes dost correct man for iniquity, Thou
makest his beauty to consume away like a moth: surely every man is vanity.</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Psalm 49:14 [Death and God's judgments take away the "beauty"
of the wicked] Like sheep they are laid in the grave; death shall feed on them;
and the upright shall have dominion over them in the morning; and their beauty
shall consume in the grave from their dwelling.</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1 John 2:15-17 Love not the world, neither the things that are in the
world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. 16 For
all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and
the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. 17 And the world
passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth
for ever.</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">6. Physical beauty can be
misused to lead others astray.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">2 Samuel 14:25; 16:5,6 [David's son, Absalom, used his charm to steal
the loyalty of David's people from him, as he intended to overthrow his
father's government] But in all Israel there was none to be so much praised as
Absalom for his beauty: from the sole of his foot even to the crown of his head
there was no blemish in him.… 15:5 And it was so, that when any man came nigh
to him to do him obeisance, he put forth his hand, and took him, and kissed
him. 6 And on this manner did Absalom to all Israel that came to the king for
judgment: so Absalom stole the hearts of the men of Israel.</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Proverbs 6:23-25 For the commandment is a lamp; and the law is light;
and reproofs of instruction are the way of life: 24 To keep thee from the evil
woman, from the flattery of the tongue of a strange woman. 25 Lust not after
her beauty in thine heart; neither let her take thee with her eyelids.</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Proverbs 7:10,12-14 And, behold, there met him a woman with the attire
of an harlot, and subtil of heart.… 12 Now is she without, now in the streets,
and lieth in wait at every corner.) 13 So she caught him, and kissed him, and
with an impudent face said unto him, 14 I have peace offerings with me; this
day have I payed my vows.</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Ezekiel 16:15 But thou didst trust in thine own beauty, and playedst the
harlot because of thy renown, and pouredst out thy fornications on every one
that passed by; his it was. [See also Isaiah 3:16]</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Revelation 17:1b-5,18; chapter 18 [God's greatest Endtime wrath is
poured out on Babylon, the whorish, deceitful, world materialistic System, that
deceived the nations with her fleshly beauty and materialism] Come hither; I
will shew unto thee the judgment of the great whore that sitteth upon many
waters: 2 With whom the kings of the earth have committed fornication, and the
inhabitants of the earth have been made drunk with the wine of her fornication.
3 So he carried me away in the spirit into the wilderness: and I saw a woman.…
4 And the woman was arrayed in purple and scarlet colour, and decked with gold
and precious stones and pearls, having a golden cup in her hand full of
abominations and filthiness of her fornication.… 18 And the woman which thou
sawest is that great city, which reigneth over the kings of the earth… 18:3 For
all nations have drunk of the wine of the wrath of her fornication, and the
kings of the earth have committed fornication with her, and the merchants of
the earth are waxed rich through the abundance of her delicacies.… 7 How much
she hath glorified herself, and lived deliciously, so much torment and sorrow
give her: for she saith in her heart, I sit a queen, and am no widow, and shall
see no sorrow.</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">7. Lord help us to reflect
His beauty.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Psalm 42:11 [God paints true beauty on our faces] Why art thou cast
down, O my soul? And why art thou disquieted within me? Hope thou in God: for I
shall yet praise Him, Who is the health of my countenance, and my God.</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Psalm 90:17a And let the beauty of the Lord our God be upon us. [See
also 27:4; 50:2]</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Isaiah 61:10 I will greatly rejoice in the Lord, my soul shall be joyful
in my God; for He hath clothed me with the garments of Salvation, He hath
covered me with the robe of righteousness, as a bridegroom decketh himself with
ornaments, and as a bride adorneth herself with her jewels.</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Ezekiel 16:14 And thy renown went forth among the heathen for thy
beauty: for it was perfect through My comeliness, which I had put upon thee,
saith the Lord God.</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Zechariah 9:17a For how great is His goodness, and how great is <u>His</u> beauty!
[See also Psalm 50:2; Isaiah 33:17]</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Ephesians 5:27 That He [God] might present it to
Himself a glorious Church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but
that it should be holy and without blemish<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<body oncopy="return false" oncut="return false" onpaste="return false">...</body>Friedrich "Mike" Helmkehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16185159203043872595noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2155679425398921745.post-30169086043043011002016-12-16T12:31:00.001-08:002016-12-16T13:46:41.187-08:00BITTERNESS<u><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Definition</span></u><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">: Holding on to or showing feelings of intense
[strong] animosity [hatred, anger], resentment or vindictiveness [wanting
to get back at someone]. -- Other words that describe bitterness are:
merciless, unforgiving, holding a grudge. Bitterness is also described as feelings resulting from
something that is difficult to accept.</span><br />
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">1. God's Word warns us against the dangers of
bitterness.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Proverbs 18:19 [When we allow ourselves to
become bitter against others, we create walls difficult to overcome, which
isolates us from others] A brother offended is harder to be won than a strong
city: and their contentions are like the bars of a castle.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Acts 8:22,23 [Bitterness is a sin to be
repented of] Repent therefore of this thy wickedness, and pray God if perhaps
the thought of thine heart may be forgiven thee. 23 For I perceive that thou
art in the gall [poison] of bitterness, and in the bond of iniquity.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Colossians 3:19 Husbands, love your wives,
and be not bitter against them.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Hebrews 12:15 [Be on guard against it,
because even a little root of bitterness can do much harm to you and others]
Looking diligently lest any man fail of the grace of God; lest any root of
bitterness springing up trouble you, and thereby many be defiled
[contaminated]. [See also Deuteronomy 29:18]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">James 3:14 If ye have bitter envying and
strife in your hearts, glory not [don't brag about it], and lie not against the
truth.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">2. Do not carry or keep bitterness, but replace
it with love, kindness and forgiveness.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Leviticus 19:18 Thou shalt not avenge, nor
bear [carry or keep] any grudge [bitterness] against the children of thy
people, but thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself: I am the Lord.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Proverbs 17:9 [Love can overcome
bitterness, but watch out about opening up old hurts felt from others. Better
to forgive and forget] He that covereth a transgression seeketh love; but he
that repeateth [harps about] a matter separateth very [true] friends. [See also
10:12]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Matthew 6:14,15 For if ye forgive men
their trespasses, your Heavenly Father will
also forgive you: 15 But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither
will your Father forgive your trespasses.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Matthew 18:23-35 [In His parable of the
unmerciful servant, Jesus made it clear that we will suffer if we refuse to
sincerely forgive our brethren, when we know Jesus has had mercy on our sins]
35 So likewise shall My Heavenly Father do
also unto you, if ye from your hearts forgive not every one his brother
their trespasses.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Romans 2:1-6 [Hypocritical, judgmental
self-righteousness can cause us to harbor bitterness, while feeling justified
for doing so, yet it ends up bringing God's punishments upon ourselves]
Therefore thou art inexcusable, O man, whosoever thou art that judgest: for wherein
thou judgest another, thou condemnest thyself; for thou that judgest doest the
same things. 2 But we are sure that the judgment of God is according to truth
against them which commit such things. 3 And thinkest thou this, O man, that
judgest them which do such things, and doest the same, that thou shalt escape
the judgment of God? 4 Or despisest thou the riches of His goodness and
forbearance and longsuffering; not knowing that the goodness of God leadeth
thee to repentance? 5 But after thy hardness and impenitent heart treasurest up
unto thyself wrath [you are saving up terrible punishment for yourselves]
against the Day of Wrath and Revelation of the righteous judgment of God; 6 Who
will render to every man according to his deeds.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Ephesians 4:31,32 Let all bitterness, and
wrath, and anger, and clamour [shouting or crying], and evil speaking, be put
away from you, with all malice [desire to do harm]: 32 And be ye kind one to
another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath
forgiven you.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">1 Peter 4:8 [Even if someone has
mistreated or wronged you, God's love is love enough to forgive] And above all
things have fervent love among yourselves: for love shall cover the multitude
of sins.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">3. If you allow bitterness a place in your heart,
it will eventually come out of your mouth in murmuring and complaining.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Job 6:2,3 [Job complains to his friends:]
Oh that my grief were throughly weighed, and my calamity laid in the balances
together! 3 For now it would be heavier than the sand of the sea: therefore my
words are swallowed up [have been rash]. [See also 7:11]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Job 10:1 [Job also said:] My soul is weary
of my life; I will leave my complaint upon myself; I will speak in the
bitterness of my soul. [See also 16:6-16]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Job 23:1-4 [Job's self-righteousness
caused him to become bitter against God, thinking he knew better] Then Job
answered and said, 2 Even to day is my complaint bitter: my stroke is heavier
than my groaning. 3 Oh that I knew where I might find Him! That I might come
even to His seat! 4 I would order my cause before Him, and fill my mouth with
arguments.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Matthew 12:34b Out of the abundance of the
heart the mouth speaketh. [See also 15:11,18,19]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Romans 3:14b Whose mouth is full of
cursing and bitterness.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">4. The Lord, in His love, can deliver you from
the sin of bitterness. Here are some examples of three who overcame it, and one
who didn't:<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Genesis 45:3-15 [If anyone had cause to be
bitter, it was Joseph. His brothers had despised him; they brutally sold him
into slavery and lied to their father that he had been killed by a wild animal;
he spent time in prison on false charges of rape; was left there for two years
longer because Pharaoh's forgetful chief butler forgot his promise to help get
Joseph out of jail. In spite of all this, here's how Joseph reconciled with his
brothers:] And Joseph said unto his brethren, I am Joseph; doth my father yet
live? And his brethren could not answer him; for they were troubled at his
presence. 4 And Joseph said unto his brethren, Come near to me, I pray you. And
they came near. And he said, I am Joseph your brother, whom ye sold into Egypt.
5 Now therefore be not grieved, nor angry with yourselves, that ye sold me
hither: for God did send me before you to preserve life. 6 For these two years hath
the famine been in the land: and yet there are five years, in the which there
shall neither be earing nor harvest 7
And God sent me before you to preserve you a posterity in the earth, and to
save your lives by a great deliverance. 8 So now it was not you that sent me
hither, but God: and He hath made me a father to Pharaoh, and lord of all his
house, and a ruler throughout all the land of Egypt. … 10 And thou shalt dwell
in the land of Goshen, and thou shalt be near unto me, thou, and thy children,
and thy children's children, and thy flocks, and thy herds, and all that thou
hast: 11 And there will I nourish thee; for yet there are five years of famine;
lest thou, and thy household, and all that thou hast, come to poverty. … 15
Moreover he kissed all his brethren, and wept upon them: and after that his
brethren talked with him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">1 Samuel 1:10 [Hannah, mother of Samuel,
was sorely provoked every year by Peninnah, the second wife of her husband,
Elkanah. Peninnah had children and
purposely tried to make Hannah feel badly because she had no children. After
years of Peninnah doing this, Hannah, having become bitter, not eating well and
feeling that she somehow was not blessed of the Lord, took her bitterness to
the Lord in desperate prayer, openly confessing her grief, both to the Lord,
and to Eli, the priest, and finally a great victory was one, first by faith,
followed by the Lord's blessings] 10 And she was in bitterness of soul, and
prayed unto the Lord, and wept sore. … [Eli, when he saw Hannah sobbing,
mistakenly though she'd been drinking and was drunk:] 15 I am a woman of a
sorrowful spirit: I have drunk neither wine nor strong drink, but have poured
out my soul before the Lord. … [She explained her prayer that God give her a
son] 17 Then Eli answered and said, Go in peace: and the God of Israel grant
thee thy petition that thou hast asked of Him. 18 And she said, Let thine
handmaid find grace in thy sight. So the woman went her way, and did eat, and
her countenance was no more sad. [By faith Hannah had given her bitterness to
the Lord, and because of it, was able to return to her family, having been
freed from sadness and was even able to eat normally. Later the blessings came:
the Lord not only blessed her with Samuel, her first born who she gave to the
Lord, but also with three other sons and
two daughters!]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Isaiah 38:10-17 [King Hezekiah grew bitter
during a nearly fatal illness. During his worst days, he felt the Lord was
cutting him off. Yet his desperate prayer and tears brought eventual healing and
victory] I said in the cutting off of my days, I shall go to the gates of the
grave: I am deprived of the residue of my years. 11 I said, I shall not see the
Lord, even the Lord, in the land of the living: I shall behold man no more with
the inhabitants of the world. 12 Mine age is departed, and is removed from me
as a shepherd's tent: I have cut off like a weaver my life: He will cut me off
with pining sickness: from day even to night wilt Thou make an end of me. 13 I
reckoned till morning, that, as a lion, so will He break all my bones: from day
even to night wilt thou make an end of me. 14 Like a crane or a swallow, so did
I chatter: I did mourn as a dove: mine eyes fail with looking upward: O Lord, I
am oppressed; undertake for me. 15 What shall I say? He hath both spoken unto
me, and Himself hath done it: I shall go softly all my years in the bitterness
of my soul. 16 O Lord, by these things men live, and in all these things is the
life of my spirit: [then Hezekiah begins to speak faith:] so wilt Thou recover
me, and make me to live. 17 Behold, for peace I had great bitterness: but Thou
hast in love to my soul delivered it from the pit of corruption: for Thou hast
cast all my sins behind Thy back.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">2 Samuel 13:22 [Absalom, son of King
David, bitterly hated his half-brother, Amnon, for having raped Tamar,
Absalom's full sister. This unbridled bitterness grew for two years until
Absalom had Amnon killed] And Absalom spake unto his brother Amnon neither good
nor bad: for Absalom <u>hated</u> Amnon, because he had forced his
sister Tamar. … 28 Now Absalom had commanded his servants, saying, mark ye
now when Amnon's heart is merry with wine, and when I say unto you, Smite
Amnon; then kill him, fear not: have not I commanded you? Be courageous, and be
valiant. 29 And the servants of Absalom did unto Amnon as Absalom had
commanded. Then all the king's sons arose, and every man gat him up upon his
mule, and fled.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"> 5. Bitterness stems from feelings of anger
and an unforgiving attitude towards others. Here are some more solutions from
the Word on how to avoid it.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Proverbs 27:7 [If we are truly hungry to
learn from the Lord, even bitter experiences are looked upon as "blessings
in disguise."] The full soul loatheth an honeycomb; but to the hungry soul
every bitter thing is sweet.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Matthew 5:23,24 Therefore if thou bring
thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath ought
[grievance] against thee; 24 Leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way; <u>first</u> be
reconciled to thy brother, and <u>then</u> come and offer thy gift.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Mark 11:25 And when ye stand praying,
forgive, if ye have ought against any: that your Father also which is in Heaven may forgive you your
trespasses.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Romans 8:28 [Bitterness is also described as the feelings resulting from
something that is difficult to accept; so it's important to always remember
that the Lord has a <u>good</u> purpose in everything that He allows
to happen to us] We know that <u>all</u> things work together
for <u>good</u> to them that love God, to them who are the called
according to His purpose.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Romans 12:2 [God's Word often speaks of
"renewing our minds," which implies letting go of the old;
particularly any past grievances and bitternesses] And be not conformed to this
world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove
what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God. [See also
Ephesians 4:23]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Ephesians 4:26b,27 [Going to bed in anger
is an avenue for the Devil to work] Let not the sun go down upon your wrath; 27
Neither give place to the Devil.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Philippians 3:13 [Bitterness is also caused by holding on to bad or angry
feelings about someone or something that happened, but the Lord tells us
to <u>forget</u> the things that are past] Brethren, I count not
myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things
which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Colossians 3:13 Forbearing one another,
and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as
Christ forgave you, so also do ye.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<body oncopy="return false" oncut="return false" onpaste="return false">...</body>Friedrich "Mike" Helmkehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16185159203043872595noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2155679425398921745.post-2604554356575884832016-12-16T12:30:00.000-08:002016-12-16T13:48:17.381-08:00 BOLDNESS<u><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Definition</span></u><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">: Behavior which exhibits courage; fearlessness;
standing out in a very noticeable way.</span><br />
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">1. As Christians, we should
be bold and unashamed of the truth and our righteous cause.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"> </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Proverbs 28:1 The wicked flee when no man pursueth: but the righteous
are bold as a lion.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">1 Samuel 17:45,46a,47 [David's example of
boldly challenging Goliath:] Then said David to the Philistine, Thou comest to
me with a sword, and with a spear, and with a shield: but I come to thee in the
Name of the Lord of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, Whom thou hast
defied. 46a This day will the Lord deliver thee into mine hand. … 47 And all
this assembly shall know that the Lord saveth not with sword and spear: for the
battle is the Lord's, and He will give you into our hands.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Mark 8:38 Whosoever therefore shall be
ashamed of Me and of My Words in this adulterous and sinful generation; of
him also shall the Son of man be
ashamed, when He cometh in the glory of His Father with the holy angels.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Luke 12:8
also I say unto you, Whosoever shall confess Me before men, him shall
the Son of man also confess before the
angels of God.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Romans 1:16a For I am not ashamed of the
Gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto Salvation to every one that
believeth.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">1 Thessalonians 2:2b We were bold in our
God to speak to you the Gospel of God with much contention [in spite of strong
opposition].<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">2. Stand up for Jesus!<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Matthew 5:14-16 Ye are the light of the
world, a city that is set on a hill cannot be hid. 15 Neither do men light a
candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light
unto all that are in the house. 16 Let your light so shine before men, that
they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in Heaven.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Psalm 107:2 Let the redeemed of the Lord
say so, whom He hath redeemed from the hand of the enemy.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Psalm 119:46 I will speak of Thy
testimonies also before kings, and will
not be ashamed.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Isaiah 62:6b Ye that make mention of the
Lord, keep not silence.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">2 Corinthians 4:13 [If we believe in
something, we <u>talk</u> about it:] We having the same spirit of
faith, according as it is written, I believed, and therefore have I spoken;
we also believe, and therefore speak.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Hebrews 13:6 So that we may boldly say,
The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">1 John 4:17 Herein is our love made
perfect, that we may have boldness in the Day of Judgment: because as He is, so
are we in this world.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">3. Jesus's sample of speaking with conviction and
spiritual authority.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Matthew 7:28,29 When Jesus had ended these
sayings, the people were astonished at His doctrine: 29 For He taught them as
one having authority, and not as the scribes.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">John 7:46b Never man spake like this Man.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">4. The boldness of the Apostle Paul.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Acts 9:29 And he [Paul, shortly after his
conversion] spake boldly in the Name of the Lord Jesus, and disputed against
the Grecians: but they went about to slay him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Acts 19:8 And he went into the synagogue,
and spake boldly for the space of three months, disputing and persuading the
things concerning the Kingdom of God.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Acts 20:20 I kept back nothing that was
profitable unto you, but have shewed you, and have taught you publicly, and
from house to house.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Acts 20:24 But none of these things move
me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course
with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify
the Gospel of the grace of God.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Acts 28:30,31 And Paul dwelt two whole
years in his own hired house [in Rome], and received all that came in unto him,
31 Preaching the Kingdom of God, and teaching those things which concern the
Lord Jesus Christ, with all confidence, no man forbidding him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Ephesians 6:19,20 And for me, [pray] that
utterance may be given unto me, that I may open my mouth <u>boldly</u>, to
make known the mystery of the Gospel. 20 For which I am an ambassador in bonds:
that therein I may speak <u>boldly</u>, as I ought to speak.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">5. Other examples of boldness:<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Genesis 18:17-32 [Abraham boldly spoke and
even bargained with the Lord and His angels trying to stave off the judgement
of Sodom and Gomorrah if a few righteous people were found there]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Exodus 33:9-23 [Moses boldly intercedes
for the Children of Israel, whom the Lord was about to destroy. The Lord not
only listened to Moses and spared the people, but He showed Himself to Moses as
no other man had seen him before or since]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">6. Boldness results from faith and living close
to Jesus and the Word.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Acts 4:13 Now when they saw the boldness
of Peter and John, and perceived that they were unlearned and ignorant men,
they marvelled; and they took knowledge of them, that <u>they had been
with Jesus</u>.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Psalm 119:6 Then shall I not be ashamed,
when I have respect unto all Thy commandments.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Proverbs 14:26a In the fear of the Lord
is <u>strong confidence</u>.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Matthew 12:34b Out of the abundance of the
heart the mouth speaketh.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">2 Corinthians 3:12 Seeing then that we
have such hope, we use great plainness [boldness] of speech.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Ephesians 3:12 In Whom [Jesus] we
have <u>boldness</u> and access with <u>confidence</u> by
the faith of Him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">1 Peter 3:15a But sanctify the Lord God in
your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you
a reason of the hope that is in you.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">7. Boldness: a gift of God -- and it's yours for
the asking.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Jeremiah 1:6-9 Then said I, Ah, Lord God!
Behold, I cannot speak: for I am a child. 7 But the Lord said unto me, Say not,
I am a child: for thou shalt go to all that I shall send thee, and whatsoever I
command thee thou shalt speak. 8 Be not afraid of their faces: for I am with
thee to deliver thee, saith the Lord. 9 Then the Lord put forth His hand, and
touched my mouth. And the Lord said unto me, Behold, I have put My Words in thy
mouth. [See also verses 10,17,18]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Acts 1:8 [Just before His ascension into
Heaven, Jesus told His disciples in Jerusalem:] But ye shall receive <u>power</u>,
after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto Me
both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part
of the earth. [A week later, the disciples received this power and were
transformed! That same day Peter, who had denied the Lord three times, as well
as all the other disciples who had forsaken Jesus and fled when He was arrested
in the garden of Gethsemane, went out in the streets of Jerusalem to boldly
proclaim the Word to thousands, and established the Early Church!]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Acts 4:29,31 [After Peter and John and
been released by the counsel of Jewish leaders, they prayed with the other
disciples:] 29 And now, Lord, behold their threatenings: and grant unto Thy
servants, that with all <u>boldness</u> they may speak Thy Word. 31
And when they had <u>prayed</u>, the place was shaken where they were
assembled together; and they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and they
spake the Word of God with boldness.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<body oncopy="return false" oncut="return false" onpaste="return false">...</body>Friedrich "Mike" Helmkehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16185159203043872595noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2155679425398921745.post-29148722839861370082016-12-16T12:28:00.005-08:002016-12-21T01:09:45.173-08:00CORRUPTION & BRIBERY<u><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Definition</span></u><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">: Something, such as money or a favor, offered or
given to a person in a position of trust to dishonestly influence that person's
views or conduct. In the Bible, the Lord despises the corruption of religious
leaders and politicians who pervert honest ways for monetary or political gain.</span><br />
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">1. The Bible specifically forbids the giving or
taking of bribes, and for good reason.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Exodus 23:8 And thou shalt take no gift
[bribe]: for the gift blindeth the wise, and perverteth the words of the
righteous.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Proverbs 29:4 The king by judgment
establisheth the land: but he that receiveth gifts overthroweth it.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Ecclesiastes 7:7 Surely oppression
[extortion] maketh a wise man mad; and a gift destroyeth the heart.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">2. Both the giving and receiving of
bribes are generally motivated by selfishness and self-interest <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Proverbs 17:23 A wicked man taketh a gift
out of the bosom to pervert the ways of judgment.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Proverbs 22:16 He that oppresseth the poor
to increase his riches, and he that giveth to the rich, shall surely come to
want.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Isaiah 1:23 Thy princes are rebellious,
and companions of thieves: every one loveth gifts, and followeth after rewards
[bribes]: they judge not the fatherless, neither doth the cause of the widow
come unto them.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Ezekiel 13:19 And will ye pollute Me among
My people for handfuls of barley and for pieces of bread, to slay the souls
that should not die, and to save the souls alive that should not live, by your
lying to my people that hear your lies?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Micah 7:3 That they may do evil with both
hands earnestly, the prince asketh, and the judge asketh for a reward; and the
great man, he uttereth his mischievous desire: so they wrap it up.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">3. Biblical examples of those who took bribes
from the ungodly:<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Numbers 22:14-22a [Balak tried to bribe
Balaam to come curse the children of Israel] And the princes of Moab rose up,
and they went unto Balak, and said, Balaam refuseth to come with us. 15 And
Balak sent yet again princes, more, and more honourable than they. 16 And they
came to Balaam, and said to him, Thus saith Balak the son of Zippor, Let
nothing, I pray thee, hinder thee from coming unto me: 17 For I will promote
thee unto very great honour, and I will do whatsoever thou sayest unto me: come
therefore, I pray thee, curse me this people. 18 And Balaam answered and said
unto the servants of Balak, If Balak would give me his house full of silver and
gold, I cannot go beyond the Word of the Lord my God, to do less or more. 19
Now therefore, I pray you, tarry ye also
here this night, that I may know what the Lord will say unto me more. 20 And
God came unto Balaam at night, and said unto him, If the men come to call thee,
rise up, and go with them; but yet the word which I shall say unto thee, that
shalt thou do. 21 And Balaam rose up in the morning, and saddled his ass, and
went with the princes of Moab. 22a And God's anger was kindled because he went.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Judges 16:5 [Delilah] And the lords of the
Philistines came up unto her, and said unto her, Entice him [Samson], and see
wherein his great strength lieth, and by what means we may prevail against him,
that we may bind him to afflict him: and we will give thee every one of us
eleven hundred pieces of silver.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"> 1
Samuel 8:1,3 [Samuel the prophet's two sons:] And it came to pass, when Samuel
was old, that he made his sons judges over Israel.... 3 And his sons walked not
in his ways, but turned aside after lucre, and took bribes, and perverted
judgment.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"> Esther 3:9 [Haman bribed King Ahasuerus to
destroy the Jews:] If it please the king, let it be written that they may be
destroyed: and I will pay ten thousand talents of silver to the hands of those
that have the charge of the business, to bring it into the king's treasuries.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Matthew 28:12-15 [The Jews bribed the
soldiers guarding Jesus' tomb into helping them spread their lies:] And when
they were assembled with the elders, and had taken counsel, they gave large
money unto the soldiers, 13 Saying, Say ye, His disciples came by night, and
stole Him away while we slept. 14 And if this come to the governor's ears, we
will persuade him, and secure you. 15 So they took the money, and did as they
were taught: and this saying is commonly reported among the Jews until this
day.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Mark 14:10,11 [The betrayer of
Jesus:] And Judas Iscariot, one of the twelve, went unto the chief
priests, to betray Him unto them. 11 And when they heard it, they were glad,
and promised to give him money. And he sought how he might conveniently betray
Him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Acts 8:18-22 [An ambitious magician tries
to bribe the Apostles:] And when Simon [the sorcerer] saw that through laying
on of the apostles' hands the Holy Ghost was given, he offered them money, 19
Saying, Give me also this power, that on
whomsoever I lay hands, he may receive the Holy Ghost. 20 But Peter said unto
him, Thy money perish with thee, because thou hast thought that the gift of God
may be purchased with money. 21 Thou hast neither part nor lot in this matter:
for thy heart is not right in the sight of God. 22 Repent therefore of this thy
wickedness, and pray God, if perhaps the thought of thine heart may be forgiven
thee.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Acts 24:26 [Governor Felix expected Paul
to bribe him:] He hoped also that money
should have been given him of Paul, that he might loose him: wherefore he sent
for him the oftener, and communed with him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">4. The intended gains from bribery are petty
compared to what it costs in the way of God's judgments.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Job 15:34 For the congregation of
hypocrites shall be desolate, and fire shall consume the tabernacles of
bribery.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Proverbs 15:27 He that is greedy of gain
troubleth his own house; but he that hateth gifts [bribes] shall live.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Proverbs 29:4 The king by judgment
establisheth the land: but he that receiveth gifts overthroweth it.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Isaiah 5:22a,23 <u>Woe</u> unto
them... 23 Which justify the wicked for reward, and take away the righteousness
of the righteous from him!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Amos 2:6 Thus saith the Lord; For three
transgressions of Israel, and for four, I will not turn away the punishment
thereof; because they sold the righteous for silver, and the poor for a pair of
shoes....<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Amos 5:11,12 Forasmuch therefore as your
treading is upon the poor, and ye take from him burdens of wheat: ye have built
houses of hewn stone, but ye shall not dwell in them; ye have planted pleasant
vineyards, but ye shall not drink wine of them. 12 For I know your manifold
transgressions and your mighty sins: they afflict the just, they take a bribe,
and they turn aside the poor in the gate from their right.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">5. God promises to bless those who uphold their
integrity by neither giving nor receiving bribes.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"> 1
Samuel 12:3 [Samuel judged Israel righteously and never accepted a bribe:]
Behold, here I am: witness against me before the Lord, and before His anointed:
whose ox have I taken? Or whose ass have I taken? Or whom have I defrauded?
Whom have I oppressed? Or of whose hand have I received any bribe to blind mine
eyes therewith? And I will restore it you.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"> Psalm 26:9-11 Gather not my soul with sinners,
nor my life with bloody men: 10 In whose hands is mischief, and their right
hand is full of bribes. 11 But as for me, I will walk in mine integrity: redeem
me, and be merciful unto me.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Proverbs 15:27b He that hateth gifts shall
live.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Isaiah 33:15,16 He that walketh
righteously, and speaketh uprightly; he that despiseth the gain of oppressions,
that shaketh his hands from holding of bribes, that stoppeth his ears from
hearing of blood, and shutteth his eyes from seeing evil; 16 He shall dwell on
high: his place of defence shall be the munitions of rocks [mountain fortress]:
bread shall be given him; his waters shall be sure.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">6. There are times when giving a gift or tip is
expedient as a gesture of kindness or reconciliation, but not to pervert
judgment.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Genesis 32:11-21; 33:8-11 [Jacob insists
on giving a large gift to help in his reconciliation with his brother Esau.
Jacob prays:] Deliver me, I pray Thee, from the hand of my brother, from the
hand of Esau: for I fear him, lest he will come and smite me, and the mother
with the children. … 13 And he lodged there that same night; and took of that
which came to his hand a <u>present</u> for Esau his brother; 14 Two
hundred she goats, and twenty he goats, two hundred ewes, and twenty rams, 15
Thirty milk camels with their colts, forty kine, and ten bulls, twenty she
asses, and ten foals.... 17 And he commanded the foremost [servant], saying,
When Esau my brother meeteth thee, and asketh thee, saying, Whose art thou? And
whither goest thou? And whose are these before thee? 18 Then thou shalt say,
They be thy servant Jacob's; it is a present sent unto my lord Esau.... 20 And
say ye moreover, Behold, thy servant Jacob is behind us. For he said, I
will <u>appease him with the present</u> that goeth before me, and
afterward I will see his face; peradventure he will accept of me. 21 So went
the present over before him: and himself lodged that night in the company....
33:8 And he [Esau] said, What meanest thou by all this drove which I met? And
he [Jacob] said, These are to find grace in the sight of my lord. 9 And Esau
said, I have enough, my brother; keep that thou hast unto thyself. 10 And Jacob
said, Nay, I pray thee, if now I have found grace in thy sight, then receive my
present at my hand: for therefore I have seen thy face, as though I had seen
the face of God, and thou wast pleased with me. 11 Take, I pray thee, my
blessing that is brought to thee; because God hath dealt graciously with me,
and because I have enough. And he urged him, and he took it.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Genesis 43:11-15 [Jacob advised his sons
to take extra money and gifts to recover their brother Benjamin and appease a
powerful government official, who turned out to be their lost brother Joseph:]
And their father Israel [Jacob] said unto them, If it must be so now, do this;
take of the best fruits in the land in your vessels, and carry down the man a
present, a little balm, and a little honey, spices, and myrrh, nuts, and
almonds: 12 And take double money in your hand; and the money that was brought
again in the mouth of your sacks, carry it again in your hand; peradventure it
was an oversight: 13 Take also your
brother, and arise, go again unto the man: 14 And God Almighty give you mercy
before the man, that he may send away your other brother, and Benjamin. If I be
bereaved of my children, I am bereaved. 15 And the men took that present, and
they took double money in their hand, and Benjamin; and rose up, and went down
to Egypt, and stood before Joseph <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"> 1
Samuel 25:2-42 [Wicked Nabal greatly offends David and his band of fugitives,
after they had protected Nabal's shepherds. Nabal's wife, Abigail, appeases a
furious David with wise words and a generous gift] 18 Then Abigail made haste,
and took two hundred loaves, and two bottles of wine, and five sheep ready
dressed, and five measures of parched corn, and an hundred clusters of raisins,
and two hundred cakes of figs, and laid them on asses.... 21 Now David had
said, Surely in vain have I kept all that this fellow hath in the wilderness,
so that nothing was missed of all that pertained unto him: and he hath requited
me evil for good. 22 So and more also do
God unto the enemies of David, if I leave of all that pertain to him by the
morning light any that pisseth against the wall. 23 And when Abigail saw David,
she hasted, and lighted off the ass, and fell before David on her face, and
bowed herself to the ground, 24 And fell at his feet, and said, Upon me, my
lord, upon me let this iniquity be: and let thine handmaid, I pray thee, speak
in thine audience, and hear the words of thine handmaid.... 27 And now this
blessing [gift] which thine handmaid hath brought unto my lord, let it even be
given unto the young men that follow my lord.... [See the passage to hear
Abigail's anointed plea for mercy and prophetic words] 32 And David said to
Abigail, Blessed be the Lord God of Israel, which sent thee this day to meet
me: 33 And blessed be thy advice, and blessed be thou, which hast kept me this
day from coming to shed blood, and from avenging myself with mine own hand....
35 So David received of her hand that which she had brought him, and said unto
her, Go up in peace to thine house; see, I have hearkened to thy voice, and
have accepted thy person. [See the rest of the passage to read of Nabal's
death, and Abigail becoming David's wife]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"> 1
Kings 15:18-20 [During the war between Baasha, the evil king of Israel, and
Asa, the godly king of Judah, Asa used a big gift to encourage the king of
Syria to break Syria's alliance with Israel:] Then Asa took all the silver and
the gold that were left in the treasures of the house of the Lord, and the
treasures of the king's house, and delivered them into the hand of his servants:
and King Asa sent them to Ben-ha'dad, the son of Tabrimon, the son of Hezion,
king of Syria, that dwelt at Damascus, saying, 19 There is a league between me
and thee, and between my father and thy father: behold, I have sent unto thee a
present of silver and gold; come and break thy league with Baasha king of
Israel, that he may depart from me. 20 So Ben-ha'dad hearkened unto king Asa,
and sent the captains of the hosts which he had against the cities of Israel,
and smote Ijon, and Dan, and Abel-beth-ma'achah, and all Cinneroth, with all
the land of Naphtali.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Proverbs 17:8 A gift is as a precious
stone in the eyes of him that hath it: whithersoever it turneth, it prospereth.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Proverbs 18:16 A man's gift [present]
maketh room for him, and bringeth him before great men.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Proverbs 19:6b Every man is a friend to
him that giveth gifts.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Proverbs 21:14 A gift [present] in secret
pacifieth anger: and a reward in the bosom strong wrath.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Matthew 17:24-27 [Even though He was not
liable, Jesus authorized Peter to pay tribute] And when they were come to
Capernaum, they that received tribute money came to Peter, and said, Doth not
your Master pay tribute? 25 He saith, Yes. And when He was come into the house,
Jesus prevented him, saying, What thinkest thou, Simon? Of whom do the kings of
the earth take custom or tribute? Of their own children, or of strangers? 26
Peter saith unto Him, Of strangers. Jesus saith unto him, Then are the children
free. 27 Notwithstanding, lest we should offend them, go thou to the sea, and cast
an hook, and take up the fish that first cometh up; and when thou hast opened
his mouth, thou shalt find a piece of money: that take, and give unto them for
me and thee.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<body oncopy="return false" oncut="return false" onpaste="return false">...</body><body oncopy="return false" oncut="return false" onpaste="return false">...</body>Friedrich "Mike" Helmkehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16185159203043872595noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2155679425398921745.post-16409635332148379822016-12-16T12:26:00.000-08:002016-12-16T13:50:19.232-08:00 BROKENNESS<div class="MsoNormal">
<u><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Definition</span></u><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">: In the positive spiritual sense, brokenness is
the condition of being completely subdued and humbled before the Lord, and as a
result, completely yielded to and dependent upon Him also.</span><br />
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">1. The Lord loves the broken in heart, who draw
close to Him in their brokenness.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Psalm 34:18 The Lord is nigh unto them
that are of a broken heart; and saveth such as be of a contrite [repentant,
regretful] spirit.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Psalm 51:17 The sacrifices of God are a
broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, O God, Thou wilt not despise.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Isaiah 57:15 For thus saith the high and
lofty One that inhabiteth eternity, Whose Name is Holy; I dwell in the high and
holy place, with him also that is of a
contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive
the heart of the contrite ones.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Isaiah 66:2b But to this man will I look,
even to him that is poor and of a contrite spirit, and trembleth at My Word.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Hosea 10:12b [God compares our hearts to a
garden, and for a garden to bear fruit the ground has to be broken up so that
it is able to receive water] Break up your fallow [uncultivated, unseeded]
ground: for it is time to seek the Lord, till He come and rain righteousness
upon you. [See also Jeremiah 4:3]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Joel 2:13 [The Lord wants us to have an
inner victory, not just a temporary, fleshly one] And rend [break or tear]
your heart, and not your garments, and turn unto the Lord your God: for He is
gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and of great kindness, and repenteth Him
of the evil.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Matthew 5:3 Blessed are the poor [humble]
in spirit: for theirs is the Kingdom of Heaven.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">2. If we <u>yield</u> to
the breaking process it will be easier on us than if God has to <u>force</u> His
breaking on us.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Matthew 21:44 And whosoever shall fall on
this Stone [Jesus] shall be broken: but on whomsoever It shall fall, It will
grind him to powder. [See also Luke 20:18]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Psalm 32:9a [Unyielded people need to be
more forcibly guided or restrained:] Be ye not as the horse, or as the mule,
which have no understanding: whose mouth must be held in with bit and bridle.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Proverbs 13:15b The way of transgressors
is hard.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Proverbs 26:3 A whip for the horse, a
bridle for the ass, and a rod for the fool's back.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">3. God breaks us in order to re-make us into what
He wants us to be.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Isaiah 64:8 But now, O Lord, Thou art our
Father; we are the clay, and Thou our Potter; and we all are the work of Thy
hand.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Jeremiah 18:3,4,6 Then I went down to the
potter's house, and, behold, he wrought a work on the wheels. 4 And the vessel
that he made of clay was marred [disfigured] in the hand of the potter: so he
made it again another vessel, as seemed good to the potter to make it… 6 O
house of Israel, cannot I do with you as this potter? Saith the Lord. Behold,
as the clay is in the potter's hand, so are ye in mine hand, O house of Israel.
[See also Isaiah 45:9; Romans 9:20,21]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">2 Timothy 2:20,21 But in a great house
there are not only vessels of gold and of silver, but also of wood and of earth; and some to
honour, and some to dishonour. 21 If a man therefore purge himself from these,
he shall be a vessel unto honour, sanctified, and meet for the master's use,
and prepared unto every good work.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">4. The Lord draws near to comfort us in our
breakings.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Job 5:18 For He maketh sore, and bindeth
up: He woundeth, and His hands make whole.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Psalm 147:3 He healeth the broken in
heart, and bindeth up their wounds.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Jeremiah 33:6 Behold, I will bring it
health and cure, and I will cure them, and will reveal unto them the abundance
of peace and truth.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Hosea 6:1 Come, and let us return unto the
Lord: for He hath torn, and He will heal us; He hath smitten, and He will bind
us up.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Luke 4:18 The Spirit of the Lord is upon
Me [Jesus], because He hath anointed Me to preach the Gospel to the poor; He
hath sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives,
and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised.
[See also Isaiah 61:1-3]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">5. Through the breaking/remaking process, God
promises to give us an new heart.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Ezekiel 36:26 A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I
put within you: and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I
will give you an heart of flesh. [See also Ezekiel 11:19]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Psalm 51:8,10 Make me to hear joy and
gladness; that the bones which Thou hast broken may rejoice…. 10 Create in me a
clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Jeremiah 24:7 And I will give them an
heart to know Me, that I am the Lord: and they shall be My people, and I will be
their God: for they shall return unto Me with their whole heart.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">6. Sorrow often accompanies breakings, but godly
sorrow is good for us.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Ecclesiastes 3:4 [There is] a time to
weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Jeremiah 31:9 They shall come with
weeping, and with supplications will I lead them: I will cause them to walk by
the rivers of waters in a straight way, wherein they shall not stumble: for I
am a father to Israel, and Ephraim is My firstborn.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Ecclesiastes 7:3 Sorrow is better than
laughter: for by the sadness of the countenance the heart is made better.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Matthew 5:4 Blessed are they that mourn:
for they shall be comforted. [See also Luke 6:21b]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Matthew 26:75 [Even though Peter denied
the Lord and was deeply broken by having done so, he later went on to become a
dynamic leader and soul winner in the Early Church:] And Peter remembered the
Word of Jesus, which said unto him, Before the cock crow, thou shalt deny Me
thrice. And he went out, and wept bitterly. [SeeActs 2:14-41 for the beginning
of Peter's victorious comeback]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">2 Corinthians 2:7 [Paul encourages the
brethren to comfort and encourage one who had done a serious wrong, but who had
been corrected for it and was sorry:] Contrariwise ye ought rather to forgive
him, and comfort him, lest perhaps such a one should be swallowed up with
overmuch sorrow.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">2 Corinthians 7:9,10 Now I rejoice, not
that ye were made sorry, but that ye sorrowed to repentance: for ye were made
sorry after a godly manner, that ye might receive damage by us in nothing. 10
For godly sorrow worketh repentance to salvation not to be repented of
[regretted]: but the sorrow of the world worketh death.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">James 4:9,10 Be afflicted, and mourn, and
weep: let your laughter be turned to mourning, and your joy to heaviness. 10
Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and He shall lift you up.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">7. God warns us against being hard and unbroken.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Job 9:4b Who hath hardened himself against
Him, and hath prospered?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">2 Chronicles 36:11-16 [Young king hardened
his heart against God, and though he reigned 11 years, he lost the kingdom in
the end, seeing the death of his sons and being made blind by his enemies, thus
becoming Judah's last king:] Zedekiah was one and twenty years old when he
began to reign…. 12 And he did that which was evil in the sight of the Lord his
God, and humbled not himself before Jeremiah the prophet speaking from the
mouth of the Lord. 13 … But he stiffened his neck, and hardened his heart from
turning unto the Lord God of Israel.… [Zedekiah's people also mocked the Lord and His prophets] 15 And
the Lord God of their fathers sent to them by His messengers, rising up
betimes, and sending; because He had compassion on His people, and on His
dwelling place: 16 But they mocked the messengers of God, and despised His
words, and misused His prophets, until the wrath of the Lord arose against His
people, till there was no remedy.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Psalm 95:7,8 For He is our God; and we are
the people of His pasture, and the sheep of His hand. To day if ye will hear
His voice, 8 Harden not your heart, as in the provocation, and as in the day of
temptation in the wilderness.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Proverbs 28:14 Happy is the man that
feareth [God] alway: but he that hardeneth his heart shall fall into mischief.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Proverbs 29:1 He, that being often reproved
hardeneth his neck, shall suddenly be destroyed, and that without remedy.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Daniel 5:20 [The prophet, Daniel testifies
to King Belshazzar about the hardness of his grandfather, King Nebuchadnezzar,
who lost his power to reign because of hardness and pride] But when his
[Nebuchadnezzar's] heart was lifted up, and his mind hardened in pride, he was
deposed from his kingly throne, and they took his glory from him:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Hebrews 3:15 While it is said, To day if
ye will hear His voice, harden not your hearts, as in the provocation
[rebellion]. [See also Exodus 17:1-7]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<body oncopy="return false" oncut="return false" onpaste="return false">...</body>Friedrich "Mike" Helmkehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16185159203043872595noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2155679425398921745.post-51308351485583471262016-12-16T12:24:00.003-08:002016-12-16T13:51:21.383-08:00BULLYING<u><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Definition</span></u><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">: The use of strength or power to force or
pressure others by fear; persecuting or oppressing others by force or threat of
force.</span><br />
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">1. Bullying, or "oppression" as it is
commonly termed in the Bible, is expressly forbidden.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Deuteronomy 24:14 Thou shalt not oppress
an hired servant that is poor and needy, whether he be of thy brethren, or of
thy strangers that are in thy land within thy gates.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Leviticus 25:17 Ye shall not therefore
oppress one another; but thou shalt fear thy God: for I am the Lord your God.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Proverbs 3:30 Strive not with a man
without cause, if he have done thee no harm.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Proverbs 3:31 Envy thou not the oppressor,
and choose none of his ways.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">2. Bullying is ungodly; meekness should be our
sample.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">2 Timothy 2:24,25 And the servant of the
Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient, 25 In
meekness instructing those that oppose themselves [who are in opposition]; if
God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Galatians 5:22,23 But the fruit of the
Spirit is <u>love</u>, joy, <u>peace</u>, longsuffering, <u>gentleness</u>,
goodness, faith, 23 Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Ephesians 4:31 Let all bitterness, and
wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with
all malice.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Philippians 2:3a Let nothing be done
through strife or vainglory.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Titus 3:2 To speak evil of no man, to be
no brawlers, but gentle, shewing all meekness unto all men.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Hebrews 12:14 Follow peace with all men,
and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">James 3:14-18 But if ye have bitter
envying and strife in your hearts, glory not, and lie not against the truth. 15
This wisdom descendeth not from above, but is earthly, sensual, devilish. 16
For where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work. 17 But
the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy
to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without
hypocrisy. 18 And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace of them that make
peace.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">3. Bullies are motivated by pride, selfishness
and lack of love.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Proverbs 13:10a Only by pride cometh
contention.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Proverbs 26:21 As coals are to burning
coals, and wood to fire; so is a contentious man to kindle strife.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Matthew 18:28 But the same servant [one
who'd just been forgiven his debts] went out, and found one of his
fellowservants, which owed him an hundred pence: and he laid hands on him, and
took him by the throat, saying, Pay me that thou owest <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">1 Corinthians 13:4,5 Charity [Love]
suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself,
is not puffed up, 5 Doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is
not easily provoked, thinketh no evil.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">4. Bullying is an offense to the Lord.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Psalm 73:8-20 They are corrupt, and speak
wickedly concerning oppression: they speak loftily. 9 They set their mouth
against the heavens, and their tongue walketh through the earth. … 11 And they
say, How doth God know? And is there knowledge in the most High? … 20 As a
dream when one awaketh; so, O Lord, when Thou awakest, Thou shalt despise their
image.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Proverbs 14:31a He that oppresseth the
poor reproacheth his Maker.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Matthew 25:40 And the King shall answer
and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one
of the least of these My brethren, ye have done it unto Me.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">5. The bully's "victory" is short
lived.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Job 20:4,5 Knowest thou not this of old,
since man was placed upon earth, 5 That the triumphing of the wicked is short,
and the joy of the hypocrite but for a moment?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Psalm 37:35,36 I have seen the wicked in
great power, and spreading himself like a green bay tree. 36 Yet he passed
away, and, lo, he was not: yea, I sought him, but he could not be found.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">6. The bully is "asking for trouble"
because the Lord is watching and sides with the oppressed.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Exodus 3:9 Now therefore, behold, the cry
of the children of Israel is come unto Me: and I have also seen the oppression wherewith the
Egyptians oppress them.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Psalm 10:17,18 Lord, Thou hast heard the
desire of the humble: Thou wilt prepare their heart, Thou wilt cause Thine ear
to hear: 18 To judge the fatherless and the oppressed, that the man of the
earth may no more oppress.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Psalm 12:5 For the oppression of the poor,
for the sighing of the needy, now will I arise, saith the Lord; I will set him
in safety from him that puffeth at him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Ezekiel 34:17-31 [Here's what the Lord
thinks about the fat shepherds who bully and take advantage of their sheep:]
And as for you, O My flock, thus saith the Lord God; Behold, I judge between
cattle and cattle, between the rams and the he goats. 18 Seemeth it a small
thing unto you to have eaten up the good pasture, but ye must tread down with
your feet the residue of your pastures? And to have drunk of the deep waters,
but ye must foul the residue with your feet? 19 And as for My flock, they eat
that which ye have trodden with your feet; and they drink that which ye have
fouled with your feet. 20 Therefore thus saith the Lord God unto them; Behold,
I, even I, will judge between the fat cattle and between the lean cattle. 21
Because ye have thrust with side and with shoulder, and pushed all the diseased
with your horns, till ye have scattered them abroad; 22 Therefore will I save My
flock, and they shall no more be a prey; and I will judge between cattle and
cattle. 23 And I will set up one shepherd over them, and he shall feed them,
even My servant David; he shall feed them, and he shall be their shepherd. 24
And I the Lord will be their God, and My servant David a prince among them; I
the Lord have spoken it. 25 And I will make with them a covenant of peace, and
will cause the evil beasts to cease out of the land: and they shall dwell
safely in the wilderness, and sleep in the woods.... 27 They shall be safe in
their land, and shall know that I am the Lord, when I have broken the bands of
their yoke, and delivered them out of the hand of those that served themselves
of them. 28 And they shall no more be a prey to the heathen, neither shall the
beast of the land devour them; but they shall dwell safely, and none shall make
them afraid. 30 Thus shall they know that I the Lord their God am with them,
and that they, even the house of Israel, are My people, saith the Lord God. 31
And ye My flock, the flock of My pasture, are men, and I am your God, saith the
Lord God.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Luke 12:45,46 But and if that servant say
in his heart, My Lord delayeth His coming; and shall begin to beat the
menservants and maidens, and to eat and drink, and to be drunken; 46 The Lord
of that servant will come in a day when he looketh not for Him, and at an hour
when he is not aware, and will cut him in sunder, and will appoint him his
portion with the unbelievers.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">1 Peter 3:12 For the eyes of the Lord are
over the righteous, and His ears are open unto their prayers: but the face of
the Lord is against them that do evil.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">7. Sooner or later, bullies will reap what they
sow.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Proverbs 11:17 The merciful man doeth good
to his own soul: but he that is cruel troubleth his own flesh.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Jeremiah 17:10 I the Lord search the
heart, I try the reins, even to give every man according to his ways, and
according to the fruit of his doings.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">2 Corinthians 5:10 For we must all appear
before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done
in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Galatians 6:7 Be not deceived; God is not
mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">8. Consider how you would feel if
bullied by others.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Exodus 23:9 also thou shalt not oppress a stranger: for
ye know the heart of a stranger, seeing ye were strangers in the land of Egypt.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Luke 6:31 And as ye would that men should
do to you, do ye also to them likewise.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">9. Join the Lord's side; go to
the aid of the underdog.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Psalm 82:3 Defend the poor and fatherless:
do justice to the afflicted and needy.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Isaiah 1:17 Learn to do well; seek
judgment, relieve the oppressed, judge the fatherless, plead for the widow.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Isaiah 58:6 Is not this the fast that I
have chosen? To loose the bands of wickedness, to undo the heavy burdens, and
to let the oppressed go free, and that ye break every yoke?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Jeremiah 22:16 He judged the cause of the
poor and needy; then it was well with him: was not this to know Me? Saith the
Lord.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Romans 15:1 We then that are strong ought
to bear the infirmities of the weak, and not to please ourselves.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">1 Thessalonians 5:14 Now we exhort you,
brethren, warn them that are unruly, comfort the feebleminded, support the
weak, be patient toward all men.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<body oncopy="return false" oncut="return false" onpaste="return false">...</body>Friedrich "Mike" Helmkehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16185159203043872595noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2155679425398921745.post-90212776728125024132016-12-16T12:23:00.000-08:002016-12-21T01:08:58.613-08:00CALLING, ABIDE IN YOUR<u><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Definition</span></u><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">: Our Christian "calling" refers to the
kind of ministry for which we are best fitted and appointed by the Lord.</span><br />
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">1. The Lord has a special calling for each of us,
the place where He knows we can be of greatest service to Him and His Kingdom.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Romans 12:4-6a For as we have many members
in one body, and all members have not the same office: 5 So we, being many, are
one body in Christ, and every one members one of another. 6a Having then gifts
differing according to the grace that is given to us.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">1 Corinthians 12:7-12,17-20,28,29 [God
gives gifts and talents to help you fulfill your ministry] But the
manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal. 8 For to
one is given by the Spirit the word of wisdom; to another the word of knowledge
by the same Spirit; 9 To another faith by the same Spirit; to another the gifts
of healing by the same Spirit; 10 To another the working of miracles; to
another prophecy; to another discerning of spirits; to another divers kinds of
tongues; to another the interpretation of tongues: 11 But all these worketh
that one and the selfsame Spirit, dividing to every man severally as He will.
12 For as the body is one, and hath many members, and all the members of that
one body, being many, are one body: so
also is Christ. … 17 If the whole body were an eye, where were the
hearing? If the whole were hearing, where were the smelling? 18 But now hath
God set the members every one of them in the body, as it hath pleased Him. 19
And if they were all one member, where were the body? 20 But now are they many
members, yet but one body. … 28 And God hath set some in the Church, first
apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then
gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues. 29 Are all
apostles? Are all prophets? Are all teachers? Are all workers of miracles? [See
also Ephesians 4:11,12]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">1 Peter 4:10 As every man hath received
the gift, even so minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the
manifold grace of God.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">2. The first step in finding God's calling for
our lives is to sincerely desire His will.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">1 Chronicles 28:9b Serve Him with a
perfect heart and with a willing mind.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Psalm 40:8 I delight to do Thy will, O my
God: yea, Thy law is within my heart.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Psalm 119:47 And I will delight myself in
Thy commandments, which I have loved.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Matthew 6:10b Thy will be done in earth,
as it is in Heaven.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">John 4:34 Jesus saith unto them, My meat
is to do the will of Him that sent Me, and to finish His work.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Romans 7:22 For I delight in the law of
God after the inward man:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">2 Corinthians 8:12 For if there be first a
willing mind, it is accepted according to that a man hath, and not according to
that he hath not.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Ephesians 6:5,6b Be obedient … 6b as the
servants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">3. Next, we must have no will of our own.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Luke 22:42 [Jesus prayed to His Father:]
Father, if Thou be willing, remove this cup from Me: nevertheless not My will,
but Thine, be done.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">John 5:30b I seek not Mine Own will, but
the will of the Father which hath sent Me.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">John 6:38 For I came down from Heaven, not
to do Mine Own will, but the will of Him that sent Me.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">4. Pray for the Lord to show you your calling.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Psalm 25:4,5,12 Shew me Thy ways, O Lord;
teach me Thy paths. 5 Lead me in Thy truth, and teach me: for Thou art the God
of my Salvation; on Thee do I wait all the day. … 12 What man is he that
feareth the Lord? Him shall He teach in the way that He shall choose.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Psalm 119:5,35 O that my ways were directed
to keep Thy statutes! … 35 Make me to go in the path of Thy commandments;
for therein do I delight.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Psalm 143:10a Pray: Teach me to do Thy
will.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">John 16:13,14 Howbeit when He, the Spirit
of truth, is come, He will guide you into all truth: for He shall not speak of
Himself; but whatsoever He shall hear, that shall He speak: and He will shew
you things to come. 14 He shall glorify Me: for He shall receive of Mine, and
shall shew it unto you.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Ephesians 1:17-18a [Pray:] that the
God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give unto you the Spirit
of wisdom and Revelation in the knowledge of Him. 18 The eyes of your
understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of His
calling.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Colossians 1:9b [Pray:] that ye might be
filled with the knowledge of His will in all wisdom and spiritual
understanding.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">2 Thessalonians 2:16,17 Now our Lord Jesus
Christ Himself, and God, even our Father, which hath loved us, and hath given
us everlasting consolation and good hope through grace, 17 Comfort your hearts,
and stablish you in every good word and work.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">2 Timothy 1:9 Who hath saved us, and
called us with an holy calling, not according to our works, but according to
His Own purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world
began.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">5. We must
also be ready to respond to the Lord's call without hesitation or
reservation.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Matthew 22:14 For many are called, but few
are chosen [because few choose to be chosen].<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Romans 1:5,6 [We] have received grace and
apostleship, for obedience to the faith among all nations, for His Name: 6
Among whom are ye also the called of
Jesus Christ.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Romans 6:13 Neither yield ye your members
as instruments of unrighteousness unto sin: but yield yourselves unto God, as
those that are alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of
righteousness unto God. [See also verses 16,19]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Romans 12:1,2 I beseech you therefore,
brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living
sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. 2 And
be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your
mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of
God.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Hebrews 10:22,23 Let us draw near with a
true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil
conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water. 23 Let us hold fast the
profession of our faith without wavering; (for He is faithful that promised;)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">6. Even if you feel incapable or inadequate, the
Lord will empower and anoint you to fill the place He has for you.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">1 Corinthians 1:26-29 For ye see your
calling, brethren, how that not many wise men after the flesh, not many mighty,
not many noble, are called: 27 But God hath chosen the foolish things of the
world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to
confound the things which are mighty; 28 And base things of the world, and
things which are despised, hath God chosen, yea, and things which are not, to
bring to nought things that are: 29 That no flesh should glory in His presence.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Job 17:9 The righteous also shall hold on His way, and he that hath
clean hands shall be stronger and stronger.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Zechariah 4:6b Not by might, nor by power,
but by My Spirit, saith the Lord of hosts.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">2 Corinthians 3:5,6a Not that we are
sufficient of ourselves to think any thing as of ourselves; but our sufficiency
is of God; 6a Who also hath made us able
ministers of the New Testament.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Ephesians 3:20 [Jesus] is able to do
exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to [His] power
that worketh in us.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Philippians 2:13 For it is God which
worketh in you both to will and to do of His good pleasure.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">1 Thessalonians 5:24 Faithful is He that
calleth you, Who also will do it.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">7. Once God reveals His calling for our lives, we
must pursue it wholeheartedly!<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Acts 20:24 But none of these things
[trials and tribulations] move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so
that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received
of the Lord Jesus, to testify the Gospel of the grace of God.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Philippians 3:13,14 Brethren, I count not
myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things
which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, 14 I
press toward the Mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">1 Timothy 6:12 Fight the good fight of
faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good
profession before many witnesses.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">2 Peter 1:10 Give diligence to make your
calling and election sure: for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">8. Once we find our calling or ministry, we need
to be faithful and stick to it!<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Proverbs 27:8 As a bird that wandereth
from her nest, so is a man that wandereth from his place.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">1 Corinthians 7:17b As the Lord hath
called every one, so let him walk <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">1 Corinthians 7:20 Let every man abide
[remain faithful to; continue] in the same calling wherein he was called.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">2 Thessalonians 1:11,12a Wherefore also we pray always for you, that our God
would count you worthy of this calling, and fulfil all the good pleasure of His
goodness, and the work of faith with power: 12a That the Name of our Lord Jesus
Christ may be glorified in you.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">2 Timothy 4:7,8 I have fought a good
fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: 8 Henceforth there is
laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge,
shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love His appearing.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Hebrews 3:1,2a Wherefore, holy brethren,
partakers of the Heavenly calling, consider the Apostle and High Priest of our
profession, Christ Jesus; 2a Who was faithful to Him that appointed Him [God].<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Revelation 17:14b He is Lord of lords, and
King of kings: and they that are with Him are called, and chosen, and faithful.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">9. Don't let the Enemy or anyone else belittle,
discourage or dissuade you from fulfilling your calling; for your labors will
be rewarded.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Zechariah 4:10a For who hath despised the
day of small things?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Job 8:7 Though thy beginning was small,
yet thy latter end should greatly increase.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Proverbs 4:18 But the path of the just is
as the shining light, that shineth more and more unto the perfect day.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Matthew 13:31-33 [God gets big results
from little things:] Another parable put He forth unto them, saying, The
Kingdom of Heaven is like to a grain of mustard seed, which a man took, and
sowed in his field: 32 Which indeed is the least of all seeds: but when it is
grown, it is the greatest among herbs, and becometh a tree, so that the birds
of the air come and lodge in the branches thereof. 33 Another parable spake He
unto them; The Kingdom of Heaven is like unto leaven, which a woman took, and
hid in three measures of meal, till the whole was leavened.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">1 Corinthians 15:58 Therefore, my beloved
brethren, be ye steadfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the
Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Galatians 6:9 And let us not be weary in well
doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Philippians 1:6 Being confident of this
very thing, that He which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until
the Day of Jesus Christ.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Hebrews 10:35,36 Cast not away therefore
your confidence, which hath great recompence of reward. 36 For ye have need of
patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the
promise.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Revelation 3:11 Behold, I [Jesus] come
quickly: hold that fast which thou hast, that no man take thy crown.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">10. Faithfulness in the place to which God has
called you to invariably leads to greater ministries.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Matthew 25:23 [Faithfully use and invest
the talents God has given you:] His lord said unto him, Well done, good and
faithful servant; thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee
ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Luke 16:10a He that is faithful in that
which is least is faithful also in much.
[See also verses 11,12]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Romans 11:29 For the gifts and calling of
God are without repentance.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<body oncopy="return false" oncut="return false" onpaste="return false">...</body>Friedrich "Mike" Helmkehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16185159203043872595noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2155679425398921745.post-18592564077597235462016-12-16T12:21:00.001-08:002016-12-21T01:10:28.999-08:00CAREFULNESS<span class="apple-converted-space"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> </span></span><u><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Definitions</span></u><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">:<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><i>Carefulness</i><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>is being attentive to<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><u>potential</u><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>danger, error, or harm;<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><i>caution</i><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>means almost the same, except it also means careful<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><u>forethought</u><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>to avoid danger or harm; close
attention or vigilance to minimize risk.</span><br />
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US">1. The Devil is
waiting for any careless, unguarded moment in order to deal us a harmful blow.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Psalm 39:1 [A
careless mouth can cause a load of troubles] I said, I will take heed to my
ways, that I sin not with my tongue: I will keep my mouth with a bridle, while
the wicked is before me. [See also Psalm 141:3; Proverbs 13:3]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Proverbs 4:26 [Look
before you leap!] Ponder the path of thy feet, and let all thy ways be
established. [See also 14:15]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Proverbs 26:2 [Many
of our troubles are caused by ourselves] As the bird by wandering, as the
swallow by flying, so the curse causeless shall not come.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Matthew 24:4,24 [In
the times in which we are living it is important to pray for discernment and
wisdom] And Jesus answered and said unto them, Take heed that no man deceive
you. 24<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>For there shall arise
false Christs, and false prophets, and shall shew great signs and wonders;
insomuch that, if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">1 Corinthians 9:27
[While preaching to others, Lord help us to keep ourselves in check] But I keep
under my body, and bring it into subjection: lest that by any means, when I
have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway. [See also Proverbs 4:23]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">1 Corinthians 10:12
[Self-confidence is dangerous] Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take
heed lest he fall.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">1 Peter 5:8,9 Be
sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the Devil, as a roaring lion,
walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: 9 Whom resist stedfast in the faith,
knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in
the world.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US">2. The Lord has
promised to protect and keep us, but He also
expects us to do our part.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Proverbs 3:21b,23 [Being
careful and cautious means exercising wisdom] Keep sound wisdom and discretion:
… 23 Then shalt thou walk in thy way safely, and thy foot shall not stumble.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Proverbs 4:20-27 My
son, attend to my words; incline thine ear unto my sayings. 21 Let them not
depart from thine eyes; keep them in the midst of thine heart. 22 For they are
life unto those that find them, and health to all their flesh. 23 Keep thy
heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life. 24 Put away
from thee a froward mouth, and perverse lips put far from thee. 25 Let thine
eyes look right on, and let thine eyelids look straight before thee. 26 Ponder
the path of thy feet, and let all thy ways be established. 27 Turn not to the
right hand nor to the left: remove thy foot from evil.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Proverbs 22:3 [Being
careful means being watchful and on guard] A prudent man foreseeth the evil,
and hideth himself: but the simple pass on, and are punished.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Matthew 4:5-7 [Being
careful means not<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><u>tempting</u><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>the Lord by being careless or reckless
or taking unnecessary risks] Then the Devil taketh Him [Jesus] up into the holy
city, and setteth Him on a pinnacle of the temple, 6 And saith unto Him, If
Thou be the Son of God, cast Thyself down: for it is written, He shall give His
angels charge concerning Thee: and in their hands they shall bear Thee up, lest
at any time Thou dash Thy foot against a stone. 7 Jesus said unto him, It is
written again, Thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US">3. Prayerfulness plus carefulness
equals protection and blessing.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Proverbs 3:6,26 In
all thy ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct thy paths. … 26 For the Lord
shall be thy confidence, and shall keep thy foot from being taken.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Matthew 26:41 Watch
and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but
the flesh is weak.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Luke 18:1 And He
spake a parable unto them to this end, that men ought always to pray, and not
to faint.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Ephesians 6:18 [You
should be] praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and
watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Colossians 4:2 Continue
in<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><u>prayer</u>, and<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><u>watch</u><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>in the same with thanksgiving.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">1 Thessalonians 5:17
Pray without ceasing.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">4.<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>Constant vigilance is the price of
security.</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Matthew 24:43 But
know this, that if the goodman of the house had known in what watch the thief
would come, he would have watched, and would not have suffered his house to be
broken up.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Luke 21:36 Watch ye
therefore, and pray always, that ye may be accounted worthy to escape all these
things that shall come to pass, and to stand before the Son of man.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US">5. Here are a few
sobering warnings from the Bible regarding the possible results of
carelessness:<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">1 Kings 3:19 [Loss
of life:] And this woman's child died in the night; because she overlaid it.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">2 Kings 4:18-20 [Another
child whose death resulted from carelessness, this time by sunstroke, was later
miraculously raised to life] And when the child was grown, it fell on a day,
that he went out to his father to the reapers. 19 And he said unto his father,
My head, my head. And he said to a lad, Carry him to his mother. 20 And when he
had taken him, and brought him to his mother, he sat on her knees till noon,
and then died. [See also 2 Kings 4:18-37]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">2 King 6:4b,5 [Loss
or damage of property:] And when they came to Jordan, they cut down wood. 5 But
as one was felling a beam, the axe head fell into the water: and he cried, and
said, Alas, master! For it was borrowed. [See also 2 Kings 6:1-7]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">2 Samuel 4:4 [Injury:]
And Jonathan, Saul's son, had a son that was lame of his feet. He was five
years old when the tidings came of Saul and Jonathan out of Jezreel, and his
nurse took him up, and fled: and it came to pass, as she made haste to flee,
that he fell, and became lame. And his name was Mephibosheth.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Matthew 7:26,27 [Foolish
disregard to the Word is the most dangerous kind of carelessness] And every one
that heareth these sayings of Mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a
foolish man, which built his house upon the sand: 27 And the rain descended,
and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell:
and great was the fall of it.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US">6. Lord help us to
keep on guard and warn others!<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Ezekiel 3:17 [Our
ministry is to be faithful watchmen to warn both the righteous and the wicked:]
Son of man, I have made thee a watchman unto the house of Israel: therefore
hear the word at My mouth, and give them warning from Me. [See verses <span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>18-21]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Isaiah 56:10 [Don't
be like the unprepared, whose] watchmen are blind: they are all ignorant, they
are all dumb dogs, they cannot bark; sleeping, lying down, loving to slumber.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Luke 6:39 [Jesus
portrayed the Pharisees as blind leaders] And He spake a parable unto them, Can
the blind lead the blind? Shall they not both fall into the ditch?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Exodus 23:13a And
in all things that I [God] have said unto you be circumspect [aware of
circumstances].<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Matthew 26:40,41 [The
Enemy often strikes when we are tired and weary] And He cometh unto the
disciples, and findeth them asleep, and saith unto Peter, What, could ye not
watch with He one hour? 41 Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation:
the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Mark 13:37 And what
I [Jesus] say unto you I say unto all, Watch.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Romans 13:11 [The
Enemy is trying to lull God's children to sleep, to get them off guard] And
that, knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep: for now
is our Salvation nearer than when we believed.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Ephesians 5:15,16 See
then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise. 16 Redeeming the
time, because the days are evil.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">1 Thessalonians
5:5-8a Ye are all the children of light, and the children of the day: we are
not of the night, nor of darkness. 6 Therefore let us not sleep, as do others;
but let us watch and be sober. 7 For they that sleep sleep in the night; and
they that be drunken are drunken in the night. 8a But let us, who are of the
day, be sober. …<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">2 Timothy 4:5 But
watch thou in all things. … [See also Revelation 16:15]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Hebrews 2:1 Therefore
we ought to give the more earnest heed to the things which we have heard, lest
at any time we should let them slip.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">1 Peter 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 at the Revelation of Jesus Christ.<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>[See also 4:7]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<body oncopy="return false" oncut="return false" onpaste="return false">...</body>Friedrich "Mike" Helmkehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16185159203043872595noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2155679425398921745.post-82936336884098634662016-12-16T12:20:00.000-08:002016-12-21T01:11:24.080-08:00CHANGES<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> </span><u><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Definition</span></u><span class="apple-converted-space"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> </span></span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">of "change": To become
different; to undergo a transformation or to pass through a transitional phase.</span><br />
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US">1. All things change,
but Jesus never.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Hebrews 1:10-12 And,
Thou, Lord, in the beginning hast laid the foundation of the earth; and the
heavens are the works of Thine hands: 11 They shall perish; but Thou remainest;
and they all shall wax old as doth a garment; 12 And as a vesture shalt Thou
fold them up, and they shall be changed: but Thou art the same, and Thy years
shall not fail. [See also Psalm 102:25-27]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Malachi 3:6a For I
am the Lord, I change not.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Hebrews 13:8 Jesus
Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">James 1:17 Every
good gift and every perfect gift is from Above, and cometh down from the Father
of lights, with Whom is<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><u>no
variableness</u>, neither shadow of turning.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US">2. Carnal man resists
changes.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Luke 5:39 No man also having drunk old wine straightway
desireth new: for he saith, The old is better.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Psalm 49:11 Their
inward thought is, that their houses shall continue for ever, and their
dwelling places to all generations; they call their lands after their own
names.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Mark 7:9 And He
said unto them, Full well ye reject the commandment of God, that ye may keep
your own tradition.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US">3. Changes often test
our faith that God knows best and is working out His perfect plan for us.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Job 1:21 And [Job]
said, Naked came I out of my mother's womb, and naked shall I return thither:
The Lord gave, and the Lord hath taken away; blessed be the Name of the Lord.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Hebrews 11:17, 19 By
faith Abraham, when he was tried, offered up Isaac: and he that had received
the promises offered up his only begotten son, 19 Accounting that God was able
to raise him up, even from the dead; from whence also he received him in a figure.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Philippians 2:13 For
it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of His good pleasure.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US">4. Ultimately, God's
changes are always good for us.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Romans 8:28 And we
know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who
are the called according to His purpose.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Psalm 55:19b Because
they have no changes, therefore they fear not God.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Psalm 84:11b No
good thing will He withhold from them that walk uprightly.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Jeremiah 29:11 For
I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace,
and not of evil, to give you an expected end.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Mark 7:37b He hath
done all things well.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Luke 12:32 Fear
not, little flock; for it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the
Kingdom.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">2 Timothy 1:12b For
I know Whom I have believed, and am persuaded that He is able to keep that
which I have committed unto Him against that day.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Philippians 1:6 Being
confident of this very thing, that He which hath begun a good work in you will
perform it until the day of Jesus Christ.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US">5. Yieldedness to the
Lord's will is the key to being able to accept changes gracefully.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">1 Samuel 3:18b It
is the Lord: let Him do what seemeth Him good.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Psalm 40:8 I
delight to do Thy will, O my God: yea, Thy law is within my heart.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Isaiah 64:8 But
now, O Lord, Thou art our Father; we are the clay, and Thou our potter; and we
all are the work of Thy hand.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Jeremiah 42:6a Whether
it be good, or whether it be evil [difficult], we will obey the voice of the
Lord our God.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Matthew 6:10b Thy
will be done in earth, as it is in Heaven. [ also Luke 11:2b]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">[See also Adaptability,
#8]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US">6. During times of
change, we must do two things: forget the past and keep our eyes on the goal
ahead.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Philippians 3:13,14
Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do,
forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things
which are before, 14 I press toward the Mark for the prize of the high calling
of God in Christ Jesus.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">2 Corinthians 4:18 While
we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen:
for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen
are eternal.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Colossians 3:2 Set
your affection on things Above, not on things on the earth.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Hebrews 12:2a Looking
unto Jesus, the Author and Finisher of our faith.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US">7. Jesus is our
security in times of change.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Hebrews 6:19a Which
hope [in God] we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and steadfast.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Hebrews 13:5b He
hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Psalm 139:9-10 9 If
I take the wings of the morning, and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea;
10 Even there shall Thy hand lead me, and Thy right hand shall hold me.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Romans 8:38,39 For
I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities,
nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, 39 Nor height, nor depth,
nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God,
which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<body oncopy="return false" oncut="return false" onpaste="return false">...</body>Friedrich "Mike" Helmkehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16185159203043872595noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2155679425398921745.post-90634156455734028322016-12-16T12:18:00.003-08:002016-12-16T13:58:17.228-08:00CHEERFULNESS<u><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Definition</span></u><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">:<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>Being in good spirits;
merry; reflecting willingness or a feeling of cheer.</span><br />
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US">1. Cheerfulness comes
from the heart.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Proverbs 15:13a A
merry heart maketh a cheerful countenance.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Proverbs 15:15b He
that is of a merry heart hath a continual feast.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Ecclesiastes 11:9a Rejoice,
O young man, in thy youth; and let thy heart cheer thee in the days of thy
youth.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Matthew 12:35a A
good man out of the good treasure of the heart bringeth forth good things.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US">2. The Lord is the
source of everlasting joy.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1 Chronicles 16:27 Glory
and honour are in His presence; strength and gladness are in His place.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Nehemiah 8:10b The
joy of the Lord is your strength.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Psalm 4:7 Thou hast
put gladness in my heart, more than in the time that their corn and their wine
increased.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Psalm 9:2 I will be
glad and rejoice in Thee: I will sing praise to Thy Name, O Thou most High.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Psalm 16:11 Thou
wilt shew me the path of life: in Thy presence is fulness of joy; at Thy right
hand there are pleasures for evermore.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Psalm 21:1 The king
shall joy in Thy strength, O Lord; and in Thy salvation how greatly shall he
rejoice!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Psalm 32:11 Be glad
in the Lord, and rejoice, ye righteous: and shout for joy, all ye that are
upright in heart.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Psalm 43:4 Then
will I go unto the altar of God, unto God my exceeding joy: yea, upon the harp
will I praise Thee, O God my God.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Psalm 89:15,16 Blessed
is the people that know the joyful sound: they shall walk, O Lord, in the light
of Thy countenance. 16 In Thy Name shall they rejoice all the day: and in Thy
righteousness shall they be exalted.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Psalm 105:3b Let
the heart of them rejoice that seek the Lord.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Ecclesiastes 2:26a For
God giveth to a man that is good in His sight wisdom, and knowledge, and joy.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Ecclesiastes 3:13 And
also that every man should eat and
drink, and enjoy the good of all his labour, it is the gift of God.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Isaiah 12:3 Therefore
with joy shall ye draw water out of the wells of salvation.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Jeremiah 15:16 Thy
Words were found, and I did eat them; and Thy Word was unto me the joy and rejoicing
of mine heart: for I am called by Thy Name, O Lord God of hosts.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Romans 15:13 Now
the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may
abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US">3. Cheerfulness is a
sign and a result of faith and trust in the Lord.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Psalm 5:11 Let all
those that put their<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><u>trust</u><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>in Thee<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><u>rejoice</u>: let them ever shout
for joy, because Thou defendest them: let them also that love Thy Name be joyful in Thee.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Psalm 13:5 I have
trusted in Thy mercy; my heart shall rejoice in Thy salvation.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Psalm 28:7 The Lord
is my strength and my shield; my heart trusted in Him, and I am helped:
therefore my heart greatly rejoiceth; and with my song will I praise Him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Psalm 33:21 For our
heart shall rejoice in Him, because we have trusted in His holy Name.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Psalm 63:7 Because
Thou hast been my help, therefore in the shadow of Thy wings will I rejoice.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Psalm 64:10 The
righteous shall be glad in the Lord, and shall trust in Him; and all the
upright in heart shall glory.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Psalm 128:1,2 Blessed
is every one that feareth the Lord; that walketh in His ways. 2 For thou shalt
eat the labour of thine hands: happy shalt thou be, and it shall be well with
thee.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Psalm 144:15 Happy
is that people, that is in such a case: yea, happy is that people, whose God is
the Lord.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Psalm 146:5 Happy
is he that hath the God of Jacob for his help, whose hope is in the Lord his
God:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Proverbs 16:20b Whoso
trusteth in the Lord, happy is he.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">John 16:33 These
things I [Jesus] have spoken unto you, that in Me ye might have peace. In the
world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the
world.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Acts 27:25 [Paul,
at sea, speaks faith to the sailors during the vicious storm:] Wherefore, sirs,
be of good cheer: for I believe God, that it shall be even as it was told me.
[See Acts 27: all]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1 Peter 1:8 Whom
having not seen, ye love; in Whom, though now ye see Him not, yet believing, ye
rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US">4. We, as Christians,
have more to be cheerful about than anyone else in the whole world!<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Deuteronomy 33:29a Happy
art thou, O Israel: who is like unto thee, O people saved by the Lord, the
shield of thy help, and Who is the sword of thy excellency!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Psalm 16:6 The
lines [God's blessings] are fallen unto me in pleasant places; yea, I have a
goodly heritage.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Psalm 35:9 And my
soul shall be joyful in the Lord: it shall rejoice in His salvation.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Psalm 40:16 Let all
those that seek Thee rejoice and be glad in Thee: let such as love Thy
Salvation say continually, The Lord be magnified.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Psalm 63:5,6 My
soul shall be satisfied as with marrow and fatness; and my mouth shall praise
Thee with joyful lips: 6 When I remember Thee upon my bed, and meditate on Thee
in the night watches.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Psalm 84:10 For a
day in Thy courts is better than a thousand. I had rather be a doorkeeper in
the house of my God, than to dwell in the tents of wickedness.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Psalm 126:3 The
Lord hath done great things for us; whereof we are glad.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Psalm 133:1 Behold,
how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity! [See
also 144:15]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Psalm 149:5 Let the
saints be joyful in glory: let them sing aloud upon their beds.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Ecclesiastes 9:7 Go
thy way, eat thy bread with joy, and drink thy wine with a merry heart; for God
now accepteth thy works.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Isaiah 61:10 I will
greatly rejoice in the Lord, my soul shall be joyful in my God; for He hath
clothed me with the garments of Salvation, He hath covered me with the robe of
righteousness, as a bridegroom decketh himself with ornaments, and as a bride
adorneth herself with her jewels.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Isaiah 65:18 But be
ye glad and rejoice for ever in that which I [the Lord] create: for, behold, I
create Jerusalem a rejoicing, and her people a joy.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Habakkuk 3:18 Yet I will rejoice in the Lord, I will
joy in the God of my Salvation.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Matthew 9:2b Son,
be of good cheer; thy sins be forgiven thee.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Luke 10:20b Rejoice,
because your names are written in Heaven.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">John 16:33 These
things I have spoken unto you, that in Me ye might have peace. In the world ye
shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">5.<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>Cheerfulness can help us overcome
almost any obstacle.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Psalm 51:8,12 [King
David prays for the joy of the Lord after a big breaking:] Make me to hear joy
and gladness; that the bones which Thou hast broken may rejoice. … 12 Restore
unto me the joy of Thy Salvation; and uphold me with Thy free spirit.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Psalm 126:5 They
that sow in tears shall reap in joy.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Proverbs 17:22a A
merry heart doeth good like a medicine.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Isaiah 25:9 And it
shall be said in that day, Lo, this is our God; we have waited for Him, and He
will save us: this is the Lord; we have waited for Him, we will be glad and
rejoice in His Salvation.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Acts 20:24 But none
of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I
might finish my course with<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><u>joy</u>,
and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the
Gospel of the grace of God.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Hebrews 12:2 Looking
unto Jesus the Author and Finisher of our faith; Who for the<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><u>joy</u><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>that was set before Him endured the
cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of
God.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US">6. The Lord can keep
you cheerful during tests and trials.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Psalm 16:8,9 I have
set the Lord always before me: because He is at my right hand, I shall not be
moved. 9 Therefore my heart is glad, and my glory rejoiceth: my flesh also shall rest in hope.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Psalm 30:5,11 For
His anger endureth but a moment; in His favour is life: weeping may endure for
a night, but joy cometh in the morning. … 11 Thou hast turned for me my
mourning into dancing: Thou hast put off my sackcloth, and girded me with
gladness.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Isaiah 30:29 Ye
shall have a song, as in the night when a holy solemnity is kept; and gladness
of heart, as when one goeth with a pipe to come into the mountain of the Lord,
to the mighty One of Israel.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Isaiah 35:10 And
the ransomed of the Lord shall return, and come to Zion with songs and
everlasting joy upon their heads: they shall obtain joy and gladness, and
sorrow and sighing shall flee away.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Isaiah 61:3 [God
anointed Jesus:] to appoint unto them that mourn in Zion, to give unto them
beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the
spirit of heaviness; that they might be called trees of righteousness, the
planting of the Lord, that He might be glorified.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Isaiah 65:19 And I
will rejoice in Jerusalem, and joy in My people: and the voice of weeping shall
be no more heard in her, nor the voice of crying.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Isaiah 66:13,14 As
one whom his mother comforteth, so will I comfort you; and ye shall be
comforted in Jerusalem. 14 And when ye see this, your heart shall rejoice, and
your bones shall flourish like an herb: and the hand of the Lord shall be known
toward His servants, and His indignation toward His enemies.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Jeremiah 31:25 For
I have satiated the weary soul, and I have replenished every sorrowful soul.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Luke 6:22,23 [Joyful
in tribulation:] Blessed are ye, when men shall hate you, and when they shall
separate you from their company, and shall reproach you, and cast out your name
as evil, for the Son of man's sake. 23<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><u>Rejoice
ye in that day, and leap for joy</u>: for, behold, your reward is great in
Heaven: for in the like manner did their fathers unto the prophets.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">John 16:20b Ye
shall be sorrowful, but your sorrow shall be turned into joy.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Acts 13:50-52 [Paul
and Barnabas are joyful in the midst of persecution:] But the Jews stirred up
the devout and honourable women, and the chief men of the city, and raised
persecution against Paul and Barnabas, and expelled them out of their coasts.
51 But they shook off the dust of their feet against them, and came unto
Iconium. 52 And the disciples were filled with joy, and with the Holy Ghost. [See
also 2 Corinthians 7:4]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">2 Corinthians 6:10a
[The Lord can help you smile through your tears] As sorrowful, yet alway
rejoicing.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">2 Corinthians
12:9,10 And He said unto me, "My grace is sufficient for thee: for My
strength is made perfect in weakness." Most<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><u>gladly</u><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>therefore will I rather<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><u>glory</u><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>in my infirmities, that the power of
Christ may rest upon me. 10 Therefore I take<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><u>pleasure</u><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>in infirmities, in reproaches, in
necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake: for when I am
weak, then am I strong.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Colossians 1:11 Strengthened
with all might, according to His glorious power, unto all patience and
longsuffering with joyfulness;<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1 Thessalonians 1:6
And ye became followers of us, and of the Lord, having received the Word in
much affliction, with joy of the Holy Ghost.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">James 1:2,3 My
brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; 3 Knowing
this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">James 5:11 [You
might not "feel" happy, but if you're hanging onto Him, the Lord will
give you a deeper joy in the Spirit] Behold, we count them happy which endure.
Ye have heard of the patience of Job, and have seen the end of the Lord; that
the Lord is very pitiful, and of tender mercy.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1 Peter 4:12,13 Beloved,
think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though
some strange thing happened unto you: 13 But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are
partakers of Christ's sufferings; that, when His glory shall be revealed, ye
may be glad also with exceeding joy.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Jude 24 [Jesus] is
able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence
of His glory with exceeding joy.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US">7. When we're walking
in the Spirit, we'll be cheerful under almost any circumstances.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Romans 14:17 For the
Kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in
the Holy Ghost.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Romans 15:13 Now
the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may
abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Galatians 5:22a But
the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Ephesians 5:18-20 And
be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit; 19
Speaking to yourselves in Psalms and
hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord;
20 Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the Name of
our Lord Jesus Christ.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Hebrews 10:34 For
ye had compassion of me in my bonds, and took joyfully the spoiling of your
goods, knowing in yourselves that ye have in Heaven a better and an enduring
substance.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US">8. Cheerful giving --
whether of ourselves or of our material blessings -- is an expression
of love.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1 Chronicles 29:9 Then
the people rejoiced, for that they offered willingly, because with perfect
heart they offered willingly to the Lord: and David the king also rejoiced with great joy.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Proverbs 14:21b He
that hath mercy on the poor, happy is he.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">2 Corinthians 9:7 Every
man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or
of necessity: for<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><u>God loveth a
cheerful giver</u>. [See also 1 Chronicles 29:17; Acts 20:35]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Romans 12:8b,9a He
that giveth, let him do it with simplicity,...<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><u>he that sheweth mercy, with
cheerfulness</u>. 9a Let love be without dissimulation [hypocrisy].<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US">9. Cheerfulness is
contagious.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Psalm 34:2 My soul
shall make her boast in the Lord: the humble shall hear thereof, and be glad.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Psalm 119:74a They
that fear Thee will be glad when they see me.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">2 Corinthians 1:24a
[Christian leaders are to spread the joy of the Lord amongst believers] We …
are helpers of your joy.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">10.<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>Wisdom brings cheerfulness.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Proverbs 3:13,18 Happy
is the man that findeth wisdom, and the man that getteth understanding. … 18
She is a tree of life to them that lay hold upon her: and happy is every one
that retaineth her.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
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Friedrich "Mike" Helmkehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16185159203043872595noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2155679425398921745.post-43821171250300323362016-12-16T12:16:00.002-08:002016-12-16T13:59:05.809-08:00 CHILDREN<b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Includes pregnancy, the "right to
life", childbirth, raising & training children</span></b><br />
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US">1. Pregnancy:<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">A. Children are a <u>blessing</u> from
God:</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Psalms 127:3 Children are an heritage of the <u>Lord</u>: & the
fruit of the womb is His <u>reward</u></span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Genesis 49:25 God...shall bless thee with blessings of...the womb</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Psalms 113:9 He maketh the barren woman to keep house, & to be a
joyful mother of children</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Psalms 127:4,5 As arrows...so are children...Happy is the man that hath
his quiver <u>full</u> of them</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Psalms 128:1,3 Blessed is every one that feareth the Lord. Thy wife
shall be as a fruitful vine</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Proverbs 17:6 Children's children are the crown of old men</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">1 Timothy 5:14 I will therefore that...women marry, bear children</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">(</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">See also Genesis 30:1; Deuteronomy 33:24;
1 Samuel 1:1-18;Luke 1:42.)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">B. People do their part, but conception
is still <u>God's</u> doing:</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Genesis 25:21 Isaac entreated the Lord for his wife, because she was
barren...& Rebekah his wife conceived</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Genesis 30:22,23 God remembered Rachel...& opened her womb. And she
conceived, & bare a son</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">1 Samuel 1:27 For this child I prayed; & the Lord hath given me</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Hebrews 2:13 Behold I & the children which God hath given me</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Luke 1:7,13 Thy prayer is heard; & thy wife...shall bear thee a son</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">(</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">See also Genesis 29:31; 33:5; Judges
13:3; Psalms 115:14.)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">C. <u>God</u> is the One Who
blesses women with pregnancy:</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Genesis 4:1 Adam knew Eve...& she conceived, & bare Cain, &
said, I have gotten a man from the <u>Lord</u></span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Genesis 4:25 Adam knew his wife again; & she bare a son...God, said
she, hath appointed me another seed</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Ruth 4:13 When (Boaz) went in unto (Ruth), the <u>Lord</u> gave
her conception, & she bare a son</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">(</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">See also 1 Samuel 1:19,20 )<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">D. It is God Who keeps some women from
having children:</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">1 Samuel 1:5 But the Lord had shut up (Hannah's) womb</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">(</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">See also Genesis 30:1,2)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">E. In the Bible, it was considered a
reproach <u>not</u> to have children:</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">(</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">See Genesis 20:17,18; 2 Samuel 6:23;
Jeremiah 22:30. )</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US">2. The Lord's hand on
children before birth:<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">A. <u>God</u> forms children
in the womb:</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Job 31:15 Did not He that made me in the womb make him? And did not One
fashion us in the womb?</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Job 33:4 The Spirit of God hath made me, &...given me life</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Psalms 71:5,6 By Thee I have been holden up from the womb</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Psalms 139:14-16 I am wonderfully made...in Thy book all my members were
written, which in continuance were fashioned</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">(</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">See also Isaiah 44:24a )<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">B. It is God Who gives life & a soul
to unborn children:</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Job 33:4 The breath of the Almighty hath given me life</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Genesis 2:7 God...breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; & man
became a living soul</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Acts 17:25b He giveth to all life, & breath<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">C. His care of children in the womb:</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Psalms 139:13 Thou hast covered me in my mother's womb</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Isaiah 40:11 He...shall gently lead those that are with young<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">D. God loves & knows children, even
before birth:</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Psalms 22:10 I was cast upon Thee from the womb: Thou art my God from my
mother's belly</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Isaiah 49:1 The Lord hath called me from the womb; from the (womb) hath
He made mention of my name</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Jeremiah 1:5 Before I formed thee in the belly I knew thee; before thou
camest out of the womb I sanctified thee</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Luke 1:13 [Angel said:] Thy wife...shall bear thee a son, & thou
shalt call his name John</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US">3. The Bible on "the
right to life":<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">A. Abortion is <u>murder</u> &
infanticide:</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Psalms 106:38 Shed innocent blood...of their sons & daughters</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Deuteronomy 27:25 Cursed be he that taketh reward to slay an innocent</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Jeremiah 2:34,35 In thy skirts is found the blood...of poor innocents</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Acts 7:19 They cast out their young (literally: "newly-born
or <u>un</u>born") children, to the end they might not live</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">2 Timothy 3:1-3 In the last days...men [& women] shall be lovers of
their selves...without natural affection (love)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">B. Don't worry about overpopulating the
earth:</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Genesis 1:28 Be fruitful, & multiply, & replenish the earth</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">James 5:8b For the coming of the Lord draweth nigh<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">C. God promises to take care of
believers' children:</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Psalms 37:25 I have been young & now am old, yet have I not seen the
righteous forsaken, nor his seed begging bread</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Proverbs 11:21b The seed of the righteous shall be delivered</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Isaiah 65:23b They are the seed of the blessed...& their offspring</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">(</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">See also Psalms 25:12,13; 102:28; 112:1,2;
Proverbs 14:26; Philippians 4:19.)</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US">4. Childbirth:<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">A. God's people often blessed with easy
childbirth:</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Exodus 1:19 The Hebrew women are...lively, & are delivered ere
(before) the midwives come</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Isaiah 66:7 Before she travailed, she brought forth; before her pain
came, she was delivered of a child<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">B. God can help in the delivery:</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Psalms 22:9a Thou art He that took me out of the womb</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Psalms 71:6 Thou art He that took me out of my mother's bowels</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Isaiah 46:3 (They) are borne by Me from the belly...from the womb<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">C. Promises to claim during long labour:</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Isaiah 65:23 They shall not labour in vain, nor bring forth for trouble;
for they are the seed of the blessed</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Isaiah 66:9 Shall I bring to the birth, & not cause to bring forth?
shall I cause to bring forth, & shut the womb?</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">John 16:21 As soon as she is delivered of the child, she remembereth no
more the anguish, for joy that a man is born</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Hebrews 11:11 Through faith Sara...was delivered of a child...because
she judged Him faithful Who had promised<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">D. Promises for <u>strength</u>:</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Isaiah 40:29-31 He giveth power to the faint; & to them that have no
might He increaseth strength...renew their strength</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Isaiah 41:10 Be not dismayed...I will strengthen thee<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">E. Conditions for claiming God's
promises:</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Daniel 6:16b God Whom thou <u>servest continually</u>, will deliver
thee</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">1 Timothy 2:15 She shall be saved in childbearing, if they continue
in <u>faith</u> &<u>charity</u> (love)</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US">5. Teaching & training
your children:<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Judges 13:8 Teach us what we shall do unto the child that shall be born</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">A. God's care of young children:</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Matthew 18:10 In Heaven their angels always behold the face of (God)</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">1 Corinthians 7:14 [Even if only one parent is a believer, the children
are sanctified by God]</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">B. Their early training will guide them
all through life:</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Proverbs 22:6 Train up a child in the way he should go: & when he is
old, he will not depart from it<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">C. Give the care & training of your
children priority:</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Mark 7:27 Let the children <u>first</u> be filled</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">3John 4 I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in
truth<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">D. If you neglect them for other things,
you'll both suffer:</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Proverbs 29:15b A child left to himself bringeth his mother to shame</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">1 Kings 20:40a As (I) was busy (with other things) here & there, he
was gone (See also Matthew 23:23b )<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">E. You should teach your children
the <u>Word</u>:</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Deuteronomy 6:6,7 These Words...teach them <u>diligently</u> unto
thy children</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Deuteronomy 11:18-20 Lay up these My Words in your heart & in your
soul...& teach them (to) your children</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Isaiah 38:19b The father to the children shall make known Thy truth</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Joel 1:3 Tell ye your children...& let your children tell their
children, & their children another generation</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">John 21:15 Lovest thou Me more than these? Feed My lambs</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">2 Timothy 3:15 From a child (infancy) thou hast known the Scriptures</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">(</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">See also Deuteronomy 31:12,13; Psalms 78:1-6;
1 John 2:13.)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">F. Teach your children to trust in God:</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Psalms 22:9b Thou didst make me hope when I was upon my mother's breasts</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Psalms 34:11 Come, ye children, hearken unto me: I will teach you the
fear (reverence) of the Lord</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Psalms 78:6,7 Declare them to [your] children: that they might set their
hope in God</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Acts 2:39 For the promise is unto you, & to your children</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Hebrews 2:13 I will put my trust in Him...I & the children<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">G. Lead them to receive Jesus:</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Mark 10:14 Suffer (allow) the little children to come unto Me</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Galatians 4:19 My little children, of whom I travail in birth...until
Christ be formed in you</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">1 John 2:12 I write unto you, little children, because your sins are
forgiven you for His name's sake<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">H. God's Word teaches them how to have
eternal life:</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">John 5:39 Search the Scriptures; in them...ye have eternal life</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">2 Timothy 3:15 Scriptures...are able to make thee wise unto salvation<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">I. Only <u>God</u> can teach
life's most important lessons:</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Psalms 25:5 Lead me in Thy truth, & teach me: for Thou art...God</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Proverbs 8:32,33 Hearken unto Me, O ye children...keep My ways. Hear
instruction, & be wise, & refuse it not</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Isaiah 54:13 All thy children shall be taught of the Lord; & great
shall be peace of thy children (See also John 6:45)</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">1 Corinthians 2:13 We speak...words...which the Holy Ghost teacheth<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">J. Children worshipping with their
parents:</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Proverbs 8:35 ["Little ones" listen to Bible reading with
parents]</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">2 Chronicles 20:13 [Children included in serious prayer meeting]</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">(</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">See also Joel 2:12,15,16)</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US">6. Children's obedience
& disobedience:<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">A. Children are to <u>obey</u> their
parents:</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Proverbs 1:8,9 My son, hear the instruction of thy father,
&...mother</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Ephesians 6:1 Children, obey your parents in the Lord: this is right</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Colossians 3:20 Children, obey your parents in all things: for this is
well pleasing unto the Lord<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">B. Children are to honour &
reverence their parents:</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Exodus 20:12 Honour thy father & mother: that thy days may be long</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Leviticus 19:3 Ye shall fear every man his mother, & his father</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Ephesians 6:2 Honour thy father & mother; [this] is the first
commandment with promise</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">(See also Proverbs 20:20; 23:22.)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">C. The blessing of having obedient, wise
children:</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Proverbs 10:1a A wise son maketh a glad father</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Proverbs 13:1a A wise son heareth his father's instruction</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Proverbs 23:15,16 Son, if thine heart be wise, my heart shall rejoice</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Proverbs 23:24,25 He that begetteth a wise child shall have joy</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Proverbs 28:7 Whoso keepeth the law is a wise son</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">3John 4 I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in
truth (See also 2John 4)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">D. The grief of having disobedient,
foolish children:</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Proverbs 17:21 The father of a fool hath no joy</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Proverbs 17:25 A foolish son is a grief to his father, & bitterness
to her that bare him (his mother)</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Proverbs 19:13 A foolish son is the calamity of his father</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Proverbs 10:1b A foolish son is the heaviness of his mother</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US">7. Loving instruction
balanced with firm discipline:<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">A. Treat your children gently & in
love:</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Luke 1:17 He shall...turn hearts of the fathers to the children</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Ephesians 6:4a Fathers, provoke not your children to wrath</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Colossians 3:21 Fathers, provoke not your children to anger, lest they
be discouraged</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">1 Thessalonians 2:7 We were <u>gentle</u>...as
a nurse cherisheth her children</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Titus 2:4 Teach the young women...to <u>love</u> their childen<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">B. Patience, mercy & truth are the
most effective:</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Ephesians 6:4b Bring them up in the nurture & admonition of the Lord</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">1 Thessalonians 2:11 We exhorted
& comforted & charged (testified to) every one of you, as a father doth
his children</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Romans 2:4 The goodness of God leadeth thee to repentance</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Proverbs 16:6 By mercy & truth iniquity is purged<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">C. Each child is different; seek God how
to train & discipline:</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Judges 13:12 How shall we order the child, & how shall we do?</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">(</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">See also Luke 12:47,48 )<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">D. The Scriptural admonition to chastise
naughty children:</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Proverbs 13:24 He that spareth his rod hateth his son: but he that
loveth him chasteneth him betimes (promptly)</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Proverbs 19:18 Chasten thy son while there is hope, & let not thy
soul spare for his crying</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Proverbs 22:15 Foolishness is bound in the heart of a child; but the rod
of correction shall drive it far from him</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Proverbs 23:13 Withhold not correction from the child</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Proverbs 29:17 Correct thy son, & he shall give thee...delight<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">E. Responsible Christians <u>required</u> to
restrain their children:</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">1 Timothy 3:4 That ruleth well his own house, having his children in<u>subjection</u> with
all gravity</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">1 Timothy 3:12b Ruling their children & their own houses well</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Titus 1:6 Blameless...having faithful children not...unruly</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">(</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">See also Galatians 4:1,2)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">F. When children are not corrected or
restrained:</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">1 Samuel 2:22-25, I will <u>judge</u> his
house...because his (Eli's) sons made 3:13 themselves <u>vile</u>, &
he restrained them not</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">1 Kings 1:1,5,6 His father had not displeased him at any time...saying,
"Why hast thou done so?" (See also vs.16-21)</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Proverbs 29:15b A child left to himself bringeth his mother to shame</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Luke 15:12,13 [Father of the prodigal son gave him his share, & the
son then went off & wasted it with riotous living]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">G. Such a lack of discipline means a
lack of fearing God:</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">1 Samuel 2:29,30 Wherefore kick ye at...Mine offering...& honourest
thy sons above <u>Me</u>? (See the reason in1 Samuel 2:12-17 )<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">H. Even with right training, some
children will go wrong:</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">1 Samuel 8:1-3,5a [Righteous Samuel's sons became corrupt &
covetous]</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Mark 13:12,13 [In the last days, some backslidden children will betray
their Christian parents--See also Matthew 24:10]</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">(</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">See also Proverbs 2:16-18 )<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">I. Partiality & favouritism cause
problems:</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Genesis 25:27,28 Isaac loved Esau...but Rebekah loved Jacob [& helped
Jacob deceive old father Isaac--Genesis 27:1-18]</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Genesis 37:3,4 Israel loved Joseph more than all his children...when his
brethren saw (it), they hated him</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US">8. The growing years:<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">A. Be considerate of children's
limitations:</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Genesis 33:12-14 The children are tender (young)...I will lead on softly
according as the...children be able to endure<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">B. Growing up & maturing:</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Isaiah 28:9 Whom shall he teach knowledge? And...make to understand
doctrine? Them that are weaned</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Hebrews 5:14 Strong meat (doctrine) belongeth to them...of full age<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">C. Becoming a teen, a young adult:</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">1 Corinthians 13:11 When I became a man, I put <u>away</u> childish
things</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Ephesians 4:14a That we henceforth be no more children</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">1 Corinthians 14:20 Be not children in understanding: in malice be ye children,
but in understanding be men (mature)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">D. Teen years: A time of dedication
& commitment:</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">2 Chronicles 34:1-7 [Josiah, when 16 years old, sought God in earn est,
dedicated his life to Him & zealously served Him]</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Ecclesiastes 12:1 Remember now thy Creator in the days of thy youth</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">1 Timothy 4:12 Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an <u>example</u> of
the believers, in conversation, charity, faith</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US">9. Children in God's
service:<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">A. Babies & small children touch
unbelievers' hearts:</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Exodus 2:1-6,10 [Pharaoh's daughter was touched by baby Moses, & she
disobeyed Pharaoh's order & saved him--Exodus 1:22]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">B. Examples of young children serving
God:</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">1 Samuel 2:11,18 Samuel ministered before the Lord, being a child</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Exodus 2:1-8 [Miriam, as a young child, watched out for her baby
brother, Moses]</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> 2 Kings 5:1-4 [The "little maid" witnesses to her
heathen master about God's power--See also vs.14,15a,17]</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Daniel 1:17-20 [The four Hebrew children, full of God's wisdom,
counselled king Nebuchadnezzar]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">C. Examples of older children &
young teens serving God:</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Jeremiah 1:4-9 [Teenage Jeremiah called to proclaim God's Words]</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">1 Samuel 16:1,10-13 [David anointed to be king when just a teen] (See
also 16:14-23; 17:32-37,49.)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Acts 23:12-24 [The apostle Paul's teenage nephew saves his life]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">D. Young men serving God in positions of
responsibility:</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Acts 16:1-3a [Paul chose young Timothy to be his helper & travelling
companion] (See1 Timothy 4:12a )<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">E. If trained right, children will be a
great blessing:</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Psalms 127:4,5 As arrows are in the hand of a mighty man; so are
children...they shall speak (contend) with the enemies</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Isaiah 8:18 I & the children...are for signs & for wonders</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Matthew 18:5 Whoso shall receive one such little child in My name
receiveth Me (See also Mark 9:36,37 )<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">F. God's Spirit can even use small
children to lead:</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Isaiah 11:6b A little child shall lead them<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">G. Children proclaiming God's praise:</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Matthew 21:15,16 The children crying (out)...& saying, Hosanna! Out
of the mouth of babes Thou hast perfected praise</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> Nehemiah 12:43 God made them rejoice...the children ( also )
rejoiced</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Psalms 148:12,13 Children: Let them praise the name of the Lord<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">H. Dedicating your children to God's
service:</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">1 Samuel 1:28 I have lent him to the Lord; as long as he liveth he shall
be lent to the Lord</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US">10.
Becoming like children:<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">A. You must have the faith of a child to
be saved:</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Matthew 18:3 Except ye be converted, & become as little children, ye
shall not enter into the Kingdom of Heaven</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Matthew 18:4 Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little
child...is greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Mark 10:15 Whosoever shall not receive the Kingdom of God as a little
child, he shall not enter therein<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">B. In relation to God, we are children:</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Deuteronomy 8:5 As a man chasteneth his son, so the Lord thy God
chasteneth thee</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">1 Kings 3:7 [King Solomon told God:] I am but a little child</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Psalms 103:13 Like as a father pitieth his children, so the Lord pitieth
them that fear Him</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Ephesians 5:1 Be ye therefore followers of God, as dear children</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">(</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">See also Isaiah 63:15,16; Malachai 3:17;
Galatians 4:3-7)</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<body oncopy="return false" oncut="return false" onpaste="return false">...</body>Friedrich "Mike" Helmkehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16185159203043872595noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2155679425398921745.post-5400147469798357622016-12-16T12:15:00.000-08:002016-12-21T01:13:03.993-08:00CHOICE & DECISIONMAKING<span class="apple-converted-space"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> </span></span><u><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Definition</span></u><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">:<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>The act of selecting freely after
careful consideration.</span><br />
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US">1. The Lord often
engineers or allows situations as tests, to see what choices we will make.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Exodus 32:26a Then
Moses stood in the gate of the camp, and said, Who is on the Lord's side? Let
him come unto me.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Deuteronomy 30:19 I
[Moses] call Heaven and earth to record this day against you, that I have set
before you life and death, blessing and cursing: therefore choose life, that
both thou and thy seed may live.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Proverbs 24:15a Choose
you this day whom ye will serve.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">1 Chronicles 29:17a
I know also, my God, that Thou triest
the heart, and hast pleasure in uprightness.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">1 Kings 18:21 And
Elijah came unto all the people, and said, How long halt ye between two
opinions? If the Lord be God, follow Him: but if Baal, then follow him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Proverbs 17:3 The
fining pot is for silver, and the furnace for gold: but the Lord trieth the
hearts.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Jeremiah 12:3a But
Thou, O Lord, knowest me: Thou hast seen me, and tried mine heart toward Thee.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">1 Thessalonians 2:4
But as we were allowed of God to be put in trust with the Gospel, even so we
speak; not as pleasing men, but God, which trieth our hearts.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Hebrews 11:17 By
faith Abraham, when he was tried, offered up Isaac: and he that had received
the promises offered up his only begotten son.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Revelation 3:10 [If
we chose to follow the Lord, He'll give us His protection] Because thou hast
kept the Word of My patience, I also will
keep thee from the hour of temptation, which shall come upon all the world, to
try them that dwell upon the earth.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US">2. For Christians,
decision making is synonymous with finding the will of God.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Psalm 25:4,5,9 Shew
me Thy ways, O Lord; teach me Thy paths. 5 Lead me in Thy truth, and teach me:
for Thou art the God of my Salvation; on Thee do I wait all the day. 9 The meek
will He guide in judgment: and the meek will He teach His way. [See also 86:11]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Psalm 27:11 Teach
Me Thy way, O Lord, and lead me in a plain path, because of mine enemies.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Psalm 143:10 Teach
me to do Thy will; for Thou art my God: Thy Spirit is good; lead me into the
land of uprightness. [See also Psalm 25:4,5]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">[See also Willfulness
and Rebelliousness, #13 and #14 and Abide In Your Calling, #2 and #3]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US">3. Carnal reasoning
is a hindrance in Spirit-led decision making.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Proverbs 3:5,7a Trust
in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><u>not</u><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>unto thine own understanding. … 7a Be
not wise in thine own eyes.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Proverbs 14:12 There
is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of
death.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Proverbs 19:21 There
are many devices in a man's heart; nevertheless the counsel of the Lord, that
shall stand.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Isaiah 55:8,9 For
My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways My ways, saith the
Lord. 9 For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher
than your ways, and My thoughts than your thoughts.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Jeremiah 10:23 O
Lord, I know that the way of man is not in himself: it is not in man that
walketh to direct his steps.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Romans 8:6-9a For
to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace.
7 Because the carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the
law of God, neither indeed can be. 8 So then they that are in the flesh cannot
please God. 9 But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the
Spirit of God dwell in you.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Galatians 6:8 For
he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that
soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US">4. Mature decisions
are based on spiritual considerations and goals, rather than solely upon
physical circumstances and concerns or personal desires. <o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">2 Corinthians 4:18 While
we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen:
for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen
are eternal.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Colossians 3:2 Set
your affection on things Above, not on things on the earth.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Hebrews 11:24-26 By
faith Moses, when he was come to years, refused to be called the son of
Pharaoh's daughter; 25 Choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of
God, than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season; 26 Esteeming the reproach
of Christ greater riches than the treasures in Egypt: for he had respect unto
the recompence of the reward.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">1 Kings 3:5,9-14 [God
always blesses unselfish choices:] The Lord appeared to Solomon in a dream by
night: and God said, Ask what I shall give thee. [And Solomon answered:] 9 Give
therefore Thy servant an understanding heart to judge Thy people, that I may
discern between good and bad: for who is able to judge this Thy so great a
people? 10 And the speech pleased the Lord, that Solomon had asked this thing.
11 And God said unto him, Because thou hast asked this thing, and hast not asked
for thyself long life; neither hast asked riches for thyself, nor hast asked
the life of thine enemies; but hast asked for thyself understanding to discern
judgment; 12 Behold, I have done according to thy words: lo, I have given thee
a wise and an understanding heart; so that there was none like thee before
thee, neither after thee shall any arise like unto thee. 13 And I have also given thee that which thou hast not
asked, both riches, and honour: so that there shall not be any among the kings
like unto thee all thy days. 14 And if thou wilt walk in My ways, to keep My
statutes and My commandments, as thy father David did walk, then I will
lengthen thy days.</span><span lang="EN-US"> </span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US">5. The Lord always
chooses the best for us.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Psalm 25:12 What
man is he that feareth the Lord? Him shall He teach in the way that He shall
choose.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Psalm 32:8 I will
instruct thee and teach thee in the way which thou shalt go: I will guide thee
with Mine eye.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Psalm 37:4 Delight
thyself also in the Lord; and He shall
give thee the desires of thine heart.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Psalm 84:11b No
good thing will He withhold from them that walk uprightly.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Proverbs 10:22 The
blessing of the Lord, it maketh rich, and He addeth no sorrow with it.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Jeremiah 29:11 For
I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace,
and not of evil, to give you an expected end.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Luke 12:32 Fear
not, little flock; for it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the
Kingdom.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Romans 8:28 And we
know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who
are the called according to His purpose.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US">6. One of the main
principles involved in reaching a decision: Pray for the Lord's
guidance.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Job 5:8 I would
seek unto God, and unto God would I commit my cause.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Psalm 34:5 They
looked unto Him, and were lightened: and their faces were not ashamed.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Psalm 37:5 <u>Commit</u><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>thy way unto the Lord; trust also in Him; and He shall bring it to pass.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Proverbs 3:6 In all
thy ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct thy paths.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Proverbs 16:3 Commit
thy works unto the Lord, and thy thoughts shall be established.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Isaiah 30:21 And
thine ears shall hear a word behind thee, saying, This is the way, walk ye in
it, when ye turn to the right hand, and when ye turn to the left.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">John 16:13 Howbeit
when He, the Spirit of truth, is come, He will guide you into all truth: for He
shall not speak of Himself; but whatsoever He shall hear, that shall He speak:
and He will shew you things to come.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Colossians 1:9b Pray...
that ye might be filled with the knowledge of His will in all wisdom and
spiritual understanding.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">James 1:5 If any of
you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and
upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US">7. Sound decisions
are based on the Word.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Psalm 119:105 Thy
Word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Psalm 119:24 Thy
testimonies also are my delight and my
counsellors.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Psalm 119:133a Order
my steps in Thy Word.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Numbers 22:18b I
cannot go beyond the Word of the Lord my God, to do less or more.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Proverbs 6:22,23 When
thou goest, it [the Word] shall lead thee; when thou sleepest, it shall keep
thee; and when thou awakest, it shall talk with thee. 23 For the commandment is
a lamp; and the law is light; and reproofs of instruction are the way of life.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Matthew 7:24,24 Therefore
whosoever heareth these sayings of Mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto
a wise man, which built his house upon a rock: 25 And the rain descended, and
the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not:
for it was founded upon a rock.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Romans 2:18 And
knowest His will, and approvest the things that are more excellent, being
instructed out of the law.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">2 Timothy 3:16 All
Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for
reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US">8. Seeking godly
counsel from others often leads to sounder, wiser decisions.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Proverbs 11:14 Where
no counsel is, the people fall: but in the multitude of counsellors there is
safety.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Proverbs 12:15 The
way of a fool is right in his own eyes: but he that hearkeneth unto counsel is
wise.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Proverbs 15:22 Without
counsel purposes are disappointed: but in the multitude of counsellors they are
established.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Proverbs 20:18 Every
purpose is established by counsel: and with good advice make war.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US"> 9. The final
test for our decisions should be: Is it loving?<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Romans 13:9b,10 If
there be any other commandment, it is briefly comprehended in this saying,
namely, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. 10 Love worketh no ill to his
neighbour: therefore love is the fulfilling of the law.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">1 Corinthians 16:14
Let all your things be done with [love].<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<body oncopy="return false" oncut="return false" onpaste="return false">...</body>Friedrich "Mike" Helmkehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16185159203043872595noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2155679425398921745.post-67738003469349406532016-12-16T12:13:00.001-08:002016-12-21T01:12:16.218-08:00CLEANLINESS & TIDYNESS<span class="apple-converted-space"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> </span></span><u><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Definitions</span></u><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">:<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><i>Cleanliness</i><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>is the careful avoidance of dirt.<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><i>Tidiness</i><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>is neatness; orderliness.</span><br />
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US">1. Cleanliness and
tidiness is an important part of our testimony to others.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">2 Corinthians 3:2 [Your
sample speaks louder than words] Ye are our epistle written in our hearts,
known and read of all men.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">2 Corinthians 6:3 Giving
no offence in any thing, that the ministry be not blamed.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">1 Thessalonians 5:22
Abstain from all appearance of evil.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">2 Thessalonians
3:7-11 For yourselves know how ye ought to follow us: for we behaved not
ourselves disorderly among you. … 9 Not because we have not power, but to make
ourselves an ensample unto you to follow us. … 11a For we hear that there are
some which walk among you disorderly, working not at all.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">1 Timothy 4:12 Let
no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in
conversation [behavior, manner of life], in charity [love], in spirit, in
faith, in purity.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">1 Timothy 5:10 [Paul
describes the testimony of a faithful widow, as one who washed the feet of
brethren who visited, which was an important part of keeping a clean house, as
well as a loving courtesy to visitors:] Well reported of for good works; if she
have brought up children, if she have lodged strangers, if she have<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><u>washed the saints' feet</u>, if she
have relieved the afflicted, if she have diligently followed every good work.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Titus 2:7a In all
things shewing thyself a pattern of good works.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US">2. Cleanliness is not
"next to godliness," it's part of it!<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Psalm 51:7 [Spiritual
washing is a parallel of physical washing. Dirt is a parallel of sin] Purge me
with hyssop [a sweet smelling plant used for cleansing and perfumery], and I
shall be clean: wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow…. 10 Create in me a
clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Psalm 119:9 Wherewithal
shall a young man cleanse his way? By taking heed thereto according to Thy
Word. [See also James 1:21]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Isaiah 1:16 Wash
you, make you clean; put away the evil of your doings from before Mine eyes;
cease to do evil.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Matthew 23:25-28 [The
Pharisees were physically immaculate, but spiritually filthy] 25 Woe unto you,
scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For ye make clean the outside of the cup and
of the platter, but within they are full of extortion and excess. 26 Thou blind
Pharisee, cleanse first that which is within the cup and platter, that the
outside of them may be clean also. 27
Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For ye are like unto whited
sepulchres, which indeed appear beautiful outward, but are within full of dead
men's bones, and of all uncleanness. 28 Even so ye also outwardly appear righteous unto men, but
within ye are full of hypocrisy and iniquity.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">John 15:3 Now ye
are clean through the Word which I have spoken unto you. [See also 17:17]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">2 Corinthians 7:1 Having
therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><u>cleanse ourselves from all
filthiness of the flesh and spirit</u>, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Galatians 5:19 Now
the<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><u>works of the flesh</u><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>are manifest, which are these;
adultery, fornication,<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><u>uncleanness</u>,
lasciviousness.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">1 Thessalonians 4:7
For God hath not called us unto uncleanness, but unto holiness. [See also
Romans 6:19]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">2 Timothy 2:21 If a
man therefore purge himself from these, he shall be a vessel unto honour,
sanctified, and meet for the Master's use, and prepared unto every good work.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">James 1:21 [Cleanse
yourself inside and outside] Wherefore lay apart all filthiness and superfluity
[the abundance] of naughtiness, and receive with meekness the engrafted Word,
which is able to save your souls.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Hebrews 10:22 Let
us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts
sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water. [See
also <span class="apple-converted-space">Ezekiel </span>36:25; James 4:8]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">1 John 1:7,9 But if
we walk in the light, as He is in the light, we have fellowship one with
another, and the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanseth us from all sin. … 9
If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to
cleanse us from all unrighteousness.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US">3. God created the
world to be orderly and neat.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Genesis 1:14,24 [God
established regularity and uniformity at Creation:] And God said, Let there be
lights in the firmament of the heaven to divide the day from the night; and let
them be for signs, and for seasons, and for days, and years. … 24 And God said,
Let the earth bring forth the living creature after his kind, cattle, and
creeping thing, and beast of the earth after his kind: and it was so.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Genesis 8:22 [God
reaffirmed the order of the natural world after the Flood:] While the earth
remaineth, seedtime and harvest, and cold and heat, and summer and winter, and
day and night shall not cease.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Ecclesiastes 1:4-7
[Divine harmony and the orderliness is seen in the course of nature from
generation to generation] One generation passeth away, and another generation
cometh: but the earth abideth for ever. 5 The sun also ariseth, and the sun goeth down, and
hasteth to his place where he arose. 6 The wind goeth toward the south, and
turneth about unto the north; it whirleth about continually, and the wind
returneth again according to his circuits. 7 All the rivers run into the sea;
yet the sea is not full; unto the place from whence the rivers come, thither
they return again.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">1 Corinthians 14:33a
For God is not the author of confusion.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US">4. From the beginning
God intended for mankind to be caretakers of His creation.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Genesis 1:26-28 [God
entrusted man with dominion over the earth, -- quite a responsibility:] And God
said, Let Us make man in Our image, after Our likeness: and let them have
dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the
cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth
upon the earth. 27 So God created man in His Own image, in the image of God
created He him; male and female created He them. 28 And God blessed them, and
God said unto them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth, and
subdue it: and have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the
air, and over every living thing that moveth upon the earth.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Genesis 2:15 [One
of Adam's first responsibilities was to keep the garden in good condition:]<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>And the Lord God took the man, and put
him into the Garden of Eden to dress it and to keep it.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">1 Corinthians 14:40
Let all things be done decently and in order.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">1 Corinthians
3:16,17 [Because our bodies are God's temple, we need to take good care of
them, or we'll suffer for it]<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>Know
ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in
you? 17 If any man defile the temple of God, him shall God destroy; for the
temple of God is holy, which temple ye are. [See also 1 Corinthians 6:19,20]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">1 Corinthians 4:2 Moreover
it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Colossians 2:5 [Paul,
as an overseer of the Church, also praised
those who kept their work orderly] For though I be absent in the flesh, yet am
I with you in the spirit, joying and<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><u>beholding
your order</u>, and the steadfastness of your faith in Christ. [See also Titus 1:5]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US">5. Whole chapters of
the Old Testament, particularly in Leviticus and Deuteronomy, are devoted to
detailing specific rules regarding cleanliness and sanitation. Although we are
no longer under the Mosaic Law, many of the general principles still apply
today and are vital to good health.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Exodus 19:10 And
the Lord said unto Moses, Go unto the people, and sanctify them to day and to
morrow, and let them wash their cloths <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Exodus 40:30-32 And
he set the laver [basin] between the tent of the congregation and the altar,
and put water there, to wash withal. 31 And Moses and Aaron and his sons washed
their hands and their feet thereat: 32 When they went into the tent of the
congregation, and when they came near unto the altar, they washed; as the Lord
commanded Moses.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Leviticus 10:10 And
that ye may put difference between holy and unholy, and between unclean and
clean.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Leviticus 11:44a For
I am the Lord your God: ye shall therefore sanctify [cleanse, purify]
yourselves, and ye shall be holy; for I am holy. [See also 45-47]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Exodus 15:26a And
said, If thou wilt diligently hearken to the voice of the Lord thy God, and
wilt do that which is right in His sight, and wilt give ear to His
commandments, and keep all His statutes, I will put none of these diseases upon
thee.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Ezekiel 44:23 [The
Lord wanted to<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><u>teach</u><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>His people a good<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><u>standard</u><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>of cleanliness] And they shall teach
My people the difference between the holy and profane, and cause them to
discern between the unclean and the clean.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<body oncopy="return false" oncut="return false" onpaste="return false">...</body>Friedrich "Mike" Helmkehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16185159203043872595noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2155679425398921745.post-21018505480504791142016-12-16T12:12:00.000-08:002016-12-16T14:01:49.211-08:00CLIQUES<u><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Definition</span></u><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">:<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>A small group of people
that excludes outsiders; an exclusive set of associates.</span><br />
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US">1. Cliques are
contrary to the loving unity intended to be shared among Christians.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1 Corinthians 1:10 Now
I beseech you, brethren, by the Name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all
speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be
perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Psalm 133:1 Behold,
how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">John 13:35 By this
shall all men know that ye are My disciples, if ye have love one to another.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Acts 4:32a And the
multitude of them that believed were of one heart and of one soul. [See also 2:46]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1 Corinthians 3:3 For
ye are yet carnal: for whereas there is among you envying, and strife, and
divisions, are ye not carnal, and walk as men? 4 For while one saith, I am of
Paul; and another, I am of Apollos; are ye not carnal?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Ephesians 2:14 For
He is our peace, Who hath made both one, and hath broken down the middle wall
of partition between us.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US">2. Cliques create
discord and disunity, which the Lord hates.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Proverbs 6:16,19b These
six things doth the Lord hate: yea, seven are an abomination unto Him: … 19b he
that soweth discord among brethren.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Matthew 12:25 And
Jesus knew their thoughts, and said unto them, Every kingdom divided against
itself is brought to desolation; and every city or house divided against itself
shall not stand.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Acts 6:1 [A clique
resulting from Jews favoring their own above other races caused frustration and
murmuring:] And in those days, when the number of the disciples was multiplied,
there arose a murmuring of the Grecians against the Hebrews, because their
widows were neglected in the daily ministration.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Galatians 5:15 But
if ye bite and devour one another, take heed that ye be not consumed one of
another.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US">3. Cliques provide an
atmosphere where gossip and backbiting thrive.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Psalm 38:12b They
that seek my hurt speak mischievous things, and imagine deceits all the day
long.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Proverbs 16:28 A
froward man soweth strife: and a whisperer separateth chief friends.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Proverbs 11:9a An
hypocrite with his mouth destroyeth his neighbour.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US">4. Cliques often
result from a feeling or pretense of superiority, due to pride.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Proverbs 13:10a Only
by pride cometh contention.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Romans 12:16 Be of
the same mind one toward another. Mind not high things, but condescend to men
of low estate. Be not wise in your own conceits.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1 Corinthians
4:8-10 [Paul chides some of the Corinthian church who had become conceited and
self-confident] Now ye are full, now ye are rich, ye have reigned as kings
without us: and I would to God ye did reign, that we also might reign with you. 9 For I think that
God hath set forth us the apostles last, as it were appointed to death: for we
are made a spectacle unto the world, and to angels, and to men. 10 We are fools
for Christ's sake, but ye are wise in Christ; we are weak, but ye are strong;
ye are honourable, but we are despised.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Philippians 2:3 Let
nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each
esteem other better than themselves.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">James 2:1-4,8,9 My
brethren, have not the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord of glory, with
respect of persons. 2 For if there come unto your assembly a man with a gold
ring, in goodly apparel, and there come in also a poor man in vile raiment; 3 And ye have
respect to him that weareth the gay clothing, and say unto him, Sit thou here
in a good place; and say to the poor, Stand thou there, or sit here under my footstool:
4 Are ye not then partial in yourselves, and are become judges of evil
thoughts? 8 If ye fulfil the royal law according to the scripture, Thou shalt
love thy neighbour as thyself, ye do well: 9 But if ye have respect to persons,
ye commit sin, and are convinced [convicted] of the law as transgressors.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US">5. Excluding others
is like choosing to be handicapped, for we all need each other.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1 Corinthians
12:12,20-26 For as the body is one, and hath many members, and all the members
of that one body, being many, are one body: so also is Christ. … 20 But now are they many
members, yet but one body. 21 And the eye cannot say unto the hand, I have no
need of thee: nor again the head to the feet, I have no need of you. 22 Nay,
much more those members of the body, which seem to be more feeble, are
necessary: 23 And those members of the body, which we think to be less
honourable, upon these we bestow more abundant honour; and our uncomely parts
have more abundant comeliness. 24 For our comely parts have no need: but God
hath tempered the body together, having given more abundant honour to that part
which lacked: 25 That there should be no schism in the body; but that the
members should have the same care one for another. 26 And whether one member
suffer, all the members suffer with it; or one member be honoured, all the
members rejoice with it.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US">6. Be loving and
unselfish -- draw a circle that excludes no one.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Romans 12:9a,10 Let
love be without dissimulation [hypocrisy, insincerity]. 10 Be kindly
affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one
another.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Romans 13:9b,10 And
if there be any other commandment, it is briefly comprehended in this saying,
namely, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. 10 Love worketh no ill to his
neighbour: therefore love is the fulfilling of the law.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1 Corinthians 10:33
Even as I please all men in all things, not seeking mine own profit, but the
profit of many, that they may be saved.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1 Corinthians 13:4,5
Charity [Love] suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity
vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up, 5 Doth not behave itself unseemly,
seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Galatians 6:10 As
we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto
them who are of the household of faith.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Philippians 2:2,4 Fulfil
ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love, being of one accord, of
one mind. 4 Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1 Timothy 5:21b That
thou observe these things<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><u>without
preferring one before another</u>, doing nothing by partiality.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Hebrews 13:1 Let
brotherly love continue.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1 Peter 1:22 Seeing
ye have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit unto
unfeigned [sincere] love of the brethren, see that ye love one another with a
pure heart fervently.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">James 3:17 But the
wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be
intreated, full of mercy and good fruits,<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><u>without
partiality</u>, and without hypocrisy.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1 John 3:17,18 But
whoso hath this world's good, and seeth his brother have need, and shutteth up
his bowels of compassion from him, how dwelleth the love of God in him? 18 My
little children, let us not love in word, neither in tongue; but in deed and in
truth.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US">7. In excluding
others, cliques exclude Jesus.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Matthew 25:42-45 For
I was an hungred, and ye gave Me no meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave Me no
drink: 43 I was a stranger, and<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><u>ye
took Me not in</u>: naked, and ye clothed Me not: sick, and in prison, and ye
visited Me not. 44 Then shall they also answer
Him, saying, Lord, when saw we Thee an hungred, or athirst, or a stranger, or
naked, or sick, or in prison, and did not minister unto Thee? 45 Then shall He
answer them, saying, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye did it not to one of
the least of these, ye did it not to Me.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1 John 4:20 If a
man say, I love God, and hateth his brother, he is a liar: for he that loveth
not his brother whom he hath seen, how can he love God Whom he hath not seen?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US">8. Consider
how you would feel if others excluded you from their clique.<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Proverbs 18:24a A
man that hath [or<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><u>would</u><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>have] friends must shew himself
friendly.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Luke 6:31 And as ye
would that men should do to you, do ye also to them likewise.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US">9. Fight for unity!<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">John 17:20,21a Neither
pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on Me through their
word; 21a That they all may be one; as Thou, Father, art in Me, and I in Thee,
that they also may be one in Us.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Romans 14:19 Let us
therefore follow after the things which make for peace, and things wherewith
one may edify another.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Romans 15:1 We then
that are strong ought to bear the infirmities of the weak, and not to please
ourselves.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">2 Corinthians 13:11
Finally, brethren … be perfect, be of good comfort, be of one mind, live in
peace; and the God of love and peace shall be with you.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Philippians 1:27 Only
let your conversation be as it becometh the Gospel of Christ... that ye stand
fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the
Gospel.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">[See also BIAS]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<body oncopy="return false" oncut="return false" onpaste="return false">...</body>Friedrich "Mike" Helmkehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16185159203043872595noreply@blogger.com0