We interrupt this program to bring you an exclusive interview. The man with us today is known as the King of Kings, Lord of Lords, Rose of Sharon, Lillie of the valley, Bright and Morning Star, Mary’s Baby, Savior of the World , Son of God, let’s welcome Jesus Christ! (applause , applause)

It’s an Honor to have you with us Lord.

I am delighted to be here.

What would you say is the one thing that disappoints you the most about our world?

What I am most disappointed about is the fact that many of my children, those who believe in me, have become complacent or satisfied with less than what I paid for. When I gave my life on Calvary, I paid the price for sin, sickness, disease, poverty, lack, everything that mankind inherited because of Adam’s sin. When my Father raised me from the dead, all power had been given unto me in heaven and in earth. Power to overcome sickness, disease, lack, poverty, insufficiency, even death. Now they have been reconnected to my Father and to his original purpose for their lives: to be fruitful, multiply, replenish, subdue, and dominate the earth. But they are not taking advantage of what is available to them. Many believe that because a certain disease runs in their family, they are destined to have to deal with it. They think that where they are now is all they’ll ever see in life regarding their finances. Some even think they don’t deserve anything because they keep letting me down. To them I say this. If you are in me and I in you, my Father no longer sees you through your human frailties. He looks and the scars on my back when I was beaten. He looks at the womb in my side, the nailprints in my hands and feet. He sees the scars from the crown of thorns slammed onto my head. And every time Satan brings forth a warrant for your arrest, my Father dismisses the case against you because of me. I’d tell them to read Isaiah 53:11, and there are many other references in the Bible that will help them. My Father wants me to tell them that He has a covenant with them and He always keep his promises. However, they will not be aware of what the covenant says if they don’t spend time going over the warranty (the Bible). I must go now, but always remember I know each one of you. Your names are engraved in the palms of my Father’s hands according to Isaiah 49:16.

James jumped as if he had been startled and opened up his eyes. He had fallen asleep on the couch where he had been reading his Bible. At first he was embarrassed having fallen asleep during his prayer time, but started to remember what he had been reading. He found his place which read:

“He shall see the travail of his soul, and shall be satisfied: by his knowledge shall my righteous servant justify many, for he shall bear their iniquities.” Isaiah 53:11

Copyright 2009 by Fredrick F. Nicholson all rights reserved

Fredrick F. Nicholson is a worship leader at New Life Interfaith Ministries which has two campuses, in Bessemer and Birmingham Alabama. You can read his blog @ http://fredrickfnicholson.wordpress.com

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I have been thinking from what I have learned. Who alone is worthy? If you are an unbeliever you will ask me worthy of what? I will say worthy of whatever he/she is or has. Please don’t assume stuff like working hard and coming up in life, for people like these have fallen and sunk to the depths as though they had a mill stone tied to them. If God made you, then the potential you have along with the willingness and determination is also what he instilled in you. You may say that you achieved something but in truth it was God who enabled you. We own nothing, not even ourselves; we are practically stewards of all that we are and all that we have. As the man Job said about God in the Bible

Job 1:20

The Lord gave, and now he has taken away. May his name be praised!”

Biblically there has only been One person who has walked the face of the earth and termed as worthy. If your guess is the Person Jesus then you have hit the bull’s eye.

Revelation 5:2-9

2 And I saw a mighty angel, who announced in a loud voice, “Who is worthy to break the seals and open the scroll?” 3 But there was no one in heaven or on earth or in the world below who could open the scroll and look inside it. 4 I cried bitterly because no one could be found who was worthy to open the scroll or look inside it. 5 Then one of the elders said to me, “Don’t cry. Look! The Lion from Judah’s tribe, the great descendant of David, has won the victory, and he can break the seven seals and open the scroll.”

6 Then I saw a Lamb standing in the centre of the throne, surrounded by the four living creatures and the elders. The Lamb appeared to have been killed. It had seven horns and seven eyes, which are the seven spirits of God that have been sent throughout the whole earth. 7 The Lamb went and took the scroll from the right hand of the one who sits on the throne. 8 As he did so, the four living creatures and the twenty-four elders fell down before the Lamb. Each had a harp and gold bowls filled with incense, which are the prayers of God’s people. 9 They sang a new song:

“You are worthy to take the scroll

and to break open its seals.

For you were killed, and by your sacrificial death you bought for God

people from every tribe, language, nation, and race.

Note: Jesus is Biblically referred to that the Lion of the tribe of Judah (Revelation 5:5) and also the Lamb of God (John 1:29).

Biblically no person has ever been referred to as worthy of God’s love. Men/Women of God were righteous before God only because they trusted Him & carried out His plan but they were never worthy of God’s promises. It was by grace and not merit that they received their heavenly inheritance.

Let’s consider an example from each category.

1. Angels

2. Patriarchs

3. Prophets

4. Women

5. Apostles
1. Angels:

If you check verse 3 of Revelation 5 mentioned above, you will notice that neither the angels of God in heaven nor the angels of Satan were ever worthy.

Job 15:15

Why, God does not trust even his angels; even they are not pure in his sight.

Even the angels were reconciled to God because of what the sacrifice of His Son on the cross.

Colossians 1:20

20 Through the Son, then, God decided to bring the whole universe back to himself. God made peace through his Son’s blood on the cross and so brought back to himself all things, both on earth and in heaven.

2. Patriarchs:

Patriarchs are what you would refer to as a father figure. Let us take the example the greatest patriarch that was Abraham. In Genesis 20, when Abraham was living at Gerar, he referred to his wife Sarah as his sister because she was very beautiful and he feared that people would kill him to get to her. Abraham was however so convincing that King Abimelech had Sarah brought to him & God had to straighten things out by appearing to the king in his dream.

Also Genesis 11:31 says that Abram’s father, Terah took Abram, and his grandson Lot the son of Haran, from Ur in Chaldea to Haran. Ur and Haran were the two principal cities of the moon god, Sin. And by what should be a strange coincidence, Abram’s brother had the same name as the city of the moon god. Indicating that Abram and his family formerly worshiped the moon before coming to God.

Abraham was not a man who by himself was worthy of God’s blessing, what he got he got by grace not merit. Abraham was counted righteous because he put his trust in God.

Genesis 15:6

6 Abram put his trust in the Lord, and because of this the Lord was pleased with him and accepted him.

Galatians 3:18

For if the inheritance depends on the law, then it no longer depends on a promise; but God in his grace gave it to Abraham through a promise.

3. Prophets:

For this we shall consider the biggest Old Testament prophets & and the biggest New Testament men of God. We shall take the example of Moses for the Old Testament and John the Baptist for the New Testament.

Deut 34:10

There has never been a prophet in Israel like Moses; the Lord spoke with him face to face.

Matthew 11:11 (Jesus’ words)

11 I assure you that John the Baptist is greater than anyone who has ever lived. .

About Moses, he was not worthy, there is Biblical record in Exodus 4:14 that Moses made God angry and in Exodus 4:24-26, God had just about enough of Moses. About John the Baptist, he testifies in John 1:29-33 that Jesus is the Eternal Son of God and refers to Jesus as the Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world but when he is put in prison, he begins to doubt whether Jesus is indeed the Savior and send his (John’s) disciples to ask Jesus the same & Jesus told John’s disciple that could they not see that He (Jesus) fulfilled all the prophesies of the Messiah, whom they were all finally waiting for (Matthew 11:1-6).

Hebrews 7:28

The Law of Moses appoints men who are imperfect to be high priests; but God’s promise made with the vow, which came later than the Law, appoints the Son, who has been made perfect for ever.

Matthew 11:11

I assure you that John the Baptist is greater than anyone who has ever lived. But the one who is least in the Kingdom of heaven is greater than John.

4. Women:

Women to have played an important role in furthering the interest of The Kingdom of God, There have been women who were prophets (Luke 2:26), women who saved God’s people (Josh 2), in fact the first of people to witness Jesus’ resurrection were women (John 20). Just as there were men who were righteous but never worthy, even women have been righteous but never worthy.

Romans 3:23-24

23 everyone has sinned and is far away from God’s saving presence. 24 But by the free gift of God’s grace all are put right with him through Christ Jesus, who sets them free.

I shall take the example of the most blessed woman and that was Mary (Luke 1:42), Mary too was not worthy to open the scroll in Revelation 5:2-9; it was by grace and not merit that she carried Jesus (God) in her womb? This happened to fulfill scripture about the Son of God being born through a virgin (Isaiah 7:14, Matthew 1:20-24).

Luke 1:30-31

30 The angel said to her, “Don’t be afraid, Mary; God has been gracious to you. 31 You will become pregnant and give birth to a son, and you will name him Jesus.

Mary submitted to the will of God & so she was counted among the righteous.

Luke 1:38

“I am the Lord’s servant,” said Mary; “may it happen to me as you have said.” And the angel left her.

As Jesus said that, who is His family? Here referred to those who obeyed the Father.

Matthew 12:50 (Jesus’ words)

Whoever does what my Father in heaven wants him to do is my brother, my sister, and my mother.”

Would you like to know what were Jesus words on the cross to Mary and his beloved disciple.

John 19:25-27

25 Standing close to Jesus’ cross were his mother, his mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene. 26 Jesus saw his mother and the disciple he loved standing there; so he said to his mother, “He is your son.”

27 Then he said to the disciple, “She is your mother.”

Can you see that Jesus is referring to them as family? Jesus shows us that Mary was righteous because she yielded to God.

5. Disciples of Jesus (Apostles):

The Apostles were people who were chosen (Luke 6:13) they were the people the Father drew unto His Son (John 6:44) but they too were never worthy. You must know that the disciples whom Jesus chose, Jesus called them Apostles (meaning “one sent”) (Luke 6:13). Biblically the Apostles are in first place followed by the prophets (1Corinthians 12:28) because the mission of the Apostles was to declare to all the people of the world God’s saving plan for man through Jesus (God’s revelation), where as the prophets merely passed on what God desired of His people. Even the Apostles ran away & left Jesus when the hour of his death came, to be tortured and crucified on the cross (Matthew 26:56). Apostle Peter even denied Jesus at that same time (John 18).

The Apostles too were chosen by grace (Romans 11:5, Gal 1:15).
To conclude this, I would like to tell you that there is nothing in all creation that can be ever be termed as worthy, may be righteous but never worthy. The Bible say that Jesus was made perfect through suffering (Heb 2:10), this is something and is Biblically said only about Jesus. The Bible says that God the Father shares His glory with no one (Isaiah 48:11), yet Jesus is said to have shared this glory of the Father even before the foundation of the world (John 17:5; John 17:12), which not only implies that Jesus is eternal (2 Peter 1:11) and One with His Father (John 10:30) but it also implies that He is perfect and Alone worthy (Revelation 5:2-9) to share the Father’s Glory (Revelation 5:13, Revelation 22:3). As one preacher brilliantly put it, Jesus is like a flawless diamond, perfect from every angle from which you may look & does wonders with light.

One of the countless things that Jesus is worthy of, is your trust. Being King and Lord of all creation (1Timothy 6:15), Jesus was unique and a first in many things, He came born through a virgin (Luke 1:26-38), He turned water to wine (John 2:1-12), He healed the lepers (Mark 1:40-45), the blind (Matthew 9:27-31), the lame, the crippled, the dumb, many other sick people (Matthew 6:30) & He exorcised demons (Matthew 8:28-34), He rode a colt into Jerusalem that had never been ridden fulfilling with prophesy (Mark 1:1-11), He was burred in a tomb cut out from stone in which no one had yet been placed (Luke 23:53) etc. So you seen Jesus was indeed unique and a first in many things. May be you have never found anyone capable of your trust or may be you have found no one who wants you to trust in them. In either case, Jesus is worthy (fully qualified) & willing to be that first Person in whom you may come to trust in but unlike your other ventures in whom you may have invested your trust, Jesus will never fail you. Your trust in Him will do wonders starting with keeping a place for you in heaven and also taking you through everything else that is good.

Thank you for your time.

By Fergus Davar (Saved by HIS grace), just a pen in His Hand.

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Right after Jesus’ resurrection, two of Jesus’ disciples – we’re not told who – were walking from Jerusalem to Emmaus, a town about seven miles away. While they were walking, Jesus appeared to them, but something funny happened: “their eyes were kept from recognizing him,” according to Luke 24:16. He proceeded to explain to them all about his death and resurrection. Once they finally got to Emmaus, which means a walk of at least two and a half hours and probably more, Jesus “acted as if he was going further.” It wasn’t enough for him to mess with their heads so they couldn’t figure out who he was; once he was finished messing with their heads, he intentionally deceived them into thinking he was going to keep walking, until they begged him to stick around and talk with them.

To me, this is the essence of what it means for us to go through a trial. God, being God, obviously knows that everything we experience will work together for our good. He orchestrates our whole life so that nothing we encounter will be too much for us to bear, and so that everything will be valuable to him in helping us become more like Jesus. Come on, he even told us the happy ending to the entire universe in the last two chapters of the Bible. He could quite easily, if he wanted to, tell us exactly how our current trial is going to work out for our good and how we’ll even someday be glad it happened to us. Why doesn’t he?

In a way, he practices deception on us quite often. He pretends he’s not listening to us, or pretends he’s not going to help with our problem. He allows us to keep on thinking things are terrible and that surely there’s no happy ending to whatever we’re currently facing. Like the two folks in Jesus’ story, we stumble along through our trials, and although God is right next to us, we’re completely oblivious, because he’s hiding himself instead of, you know, doing his God-things the way we want him to. He sounds a bit like a jerk when I put it that way.

Why on earth would he be this way? I think the answer is not whether we get through our trials, but how. He tells us in Scripture what kind of people we’re supposed to be, in a passage called the Fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22). Our lives are to be characterized by love, joy, peace, patience, and so on. What that means is, we’re to choose those things no matter what circumstances are going on in our lives. Someone who chooses love only when it’s easy or convenient is not a loving person at all, but merely a pragmatist.

The only problem is, how do we know whether or not we’re loving? How do we know whether we choose love only when it’s easy, or if we can do it when it’s hard too? Literally the one and only way to find this out is to experience a situation where it’s hard. This is commonly called a trial. Trials are, quite obviously, not for God’s benefit, as he knows well in advance what we’re going to do. They’re for our benefit, to find out what kind of people we really are, to discover where we need improving, to measure ourselves against God’s standard and see if we have what it takes.

This is what author Steven Covey calls “proactivity.” We choose what kind of people we’re going to be – Fruit of the Spirit kind of people – and carry out those things no matter what circumstances, emotions, or other people’s opinion tell us. Although God knows that every situation is under his control and will be good for us, he intentionally chooses to let us see them as dangerous and uncertain. This is the essence of faith: choosing to believe and trust, independent of all variables.

In the case of the two disciples on the road, the test was how they would respond when this fascinating man pretended he was going to roll on. How hungry were they to hear more about the Scriptures and the Messiah? Were they still willing to open their hearts to such a thing just three days after seeing their beloved Jesus crucified? The answer was yes, and by calling Jesus’ bluff and asking them to remain with them, they were treated to a vision of the truth, that Jesus was resurrected and in front of them. The impact on them was so strong that they hoofed it the whole seven miles right back to Jerusalem – again, bare-minimum of two and a half hours – to tell everyone else what they’d seen.

If you only have faith in God when things are easy, then you have no faith. Yet how do you know whether you have faith when things are hard and when God seems absent? Only by encountering such a time. This requires that God deceive you; although he is with you all the time, he has to pretend that he isn’t, so that you know, because the test is for your benefit, what your faith is really made of.

This is why we say the relationship with God is exactly that, a relationship or a walk, so much more than merely following a set of rules. It’s about being proactive, choosing priorities, being a certain kind of person no matter what life throws at you. It’s about walking with God when it looks like God is dead and buried. One day, the apostle Paul says, we will look forward to the time when faith will not be necessary, when our faith will be our eyes, but shouldn’t it discourage us a little bit that faith will be impossible in heaven? If we don’t have faith here on earth, if we never lean on God through the tough times here, it will be eternally too late because there will be no more tough times. Either you lean on God through this trial or you forever miss the chance. Whatever is going on in your life, however absent God appears right now, your eyes are merely deceived. Have faith and be strong, and discover – as God knows – how strong your faith already is.

Jim Barringer is a 27-year-old writer, musician, and teacher serving at The Church of Life (.com) in Orlando, FL. More of his work can be found at facebook.com/jmbarringer and ExtantMagazine.com. This work may be reprinted for any purpose so long as this bio and statement of copyright is included.

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Once, Twice, Three Times  Simon Peter?

And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. – Matthew 16:18

As we all know, Jesus chose the original twelve disciples. From reading the Bible, it may appear that He made bad choices in the men that were selected. These were ordinary guys with an extraordinary mission of spreading the Gospel to the ends of the earth. They had flaws, but Jesus was able to use them anyway and He had a specific purpose behind each one he chose.

Recently, I have been interested in why Jesus picked them. What was so special that made them qualified for the job Jesus wanted them to do? The Bible doesn’t mention any special gifts or talents other than maybe their occupation before they entered into the ministry. I believe the Apostles were selected because their character and traits would later represent the different people Jesus ‘chooses’ today. Which one represents you?

The Apostle I would like to discuss today is Simon (Peter). He was the first person that was chosen. According to the Scriptures, he was a ‘business’ man. He was a partner in a family business in the fishing industry along with Andrew (his brother), John (his father), and James (John’s brother).

His brother, Andrew, was already a disciple of John the Baptist at the time when he introduced Simon (Peter) to Jesus. This was an early act of discipleship where a saved person leads someone to the Lord. When they meet, Jesus changes his name from Simon to Cephas, which translates to Peter (meaning ‘rock’). Jesus tells him in Matthew 16:18, that upon this ‘rock’ He would build His church. In verse 19, Jesus says He would give him the keys to the kingdom of heaven. This tells me that Peter was the starting point of the ministry.

Why would Jesus want to start a ministry with a man like Peter? What did Peter have to offer? Let’s take a look at who Peter was:

He Was A Fisherman

Being a fisherman was an honest trade. Peter had joined forces with three of his family members and had a successful business of catching fish. I would assume they supplied fish to the markets in their area. They had boats and fishing equipment. I would also assume they knew all the ‘hot spots’ on the sea where they could find the ‘big catches’.

Peter was skilled; he knew the equipment, handling a boat in the water, and about fish. He also knew what tools would be needed to catch the fish he wanted to catch.

He Was A Business Man

He had a business, but he wasn’t in it by himself. To me, this would be a difficult task in itself. He couldn’t make all the decisions. He would have to be able to work well with others and work as a team. Many partnerships fall apart because they lack in this area. You have to consider other people’s ideas and respect their feelings.

Businesses have customers. Peter had to deal with people making sure he offered them a good product and that they were satisfied. Developing ‘people’ skills is very important when you’re in business.

Leadership qualities are required in business, too. You have to be willing to step out when others are sitting. Many times this requires a bold and courageous attitude.

I would guess that Peter was good at juggling his time. He was a married business owner and probably had to separate his time between business and family. He had to have time management skills.

Based on what we know about Peter, let’s determine his character – the good and the bad:

His Character: He Had Some Good Points

As you can see from reading above, Peter had some good traits. I believe these were used in the ministry. His boldness and being courageous helped him to make the first step towards Jesus when he walked on the water (Matthew 14:29). Peter was also the first to speak to the crowd at The Day Of Pentecost (Acts 2:14).

To sum it up:

He was business minded

He was smart

He was bold and courageous

He had developed people skills

He was possible good at time management

He was successful

Peter was a leader – no doubt. Jesus knew that and saw something in his character. I guess that’s why Peter is considered the ‘leader’ of the disciples. Jesus worked with him and developed something great in this man and took him places he had never dreamed. With a mission of spreading the Gospel to the ends of the earth, I would say that he had fulfilled his destiny.

His Character: He Had Some Issues

From the Bible, many of the ‘good points’ of Peter’s character also had a negative side to them. Being a smart, successful, business man could have created a sense of pride in himself. Even though he ‘followed’ Jesus, he could always fall back on ‘himself’ when the troubles came. I think he did that on many occasions and wasn’t fully committed to the ministry. Being bold and courageous is a good trait to have when you know that Jesus is watching over you, but if you use it out of selfish pride, it can get you in a mess and make you do things without thinking.

When Jesus was betrayed and was going to be arrested by the religious leaders, Peter’s first impulse was to fight back with the sword and cut the servant’s ear off. He made a bad choice that could have been worse. I’m sure Peter battled with these bad traits, but Jesus was still able to use him.

In baseball, it’s three strikes you’re out. In discipleship, Jesus doesn’t keep up with the strikes. He allows us to learn from them and keeps us going.

Denies Jesus 3 Times

(Ref: Luke 22:34, Luke 22: 54-62)

We all know about this scripture from the Bible. It seems that in the face of opposition, Peter was quick to deny knowing Jesus, even though he had told Jesus that he would never do it. Denying Jesus seems to be one of the worst things a minister or someone could do in their walk with Christ, but Jesus continued to use him. The hardest part was when Peter realized what he had done. It was a ‘pride buster’ and actually grew his faith in Jesus and took away some of the pride he had in himself.

When we are at church or at the church functions, we are all about Jesus. Right? But how do we act in our social circles outside of the church environment? By acting anti-Christian is a form of denial of the One who saved you.

Jesus Asks Him If He Loves Him 3 Times

(Ref: John 21: 15-17)

Why would Jesus have to repeat the same question to Peter three times? Did Peter really love Jesus? Peter said he didthree times!

Peter comes across as a man that would say what the people would want to hear without actually meaning it in his heart. I believe Peter loved Jesus, but not as much as Jesus wanted him to. A deep love for Him would be needed to accomplish the goals that Jesus had for him.

Do we love Jesus? Of course we do. But, do we love Him enough to do everything He tells us to do? How many times have we failed to follow His will for our lives? Ouch!

Peter Returns to His Boat 3 Times

(Ref: Matthew 4: 18-20, Luke 5: 1-11, John 21: 1-14)

In three different instances in the Bible, Jesus meets Peter at his boat. The first time was when Peter was called to be a disciple. Jesus told him to follow Him and be ‘fishers of men’ and he did.

The second time, Jesus meets up with him at his boat. It seems Peter was having trouble catching fish that day. Jesus told him where to throw his nets. Peter did as Jesus told him and he brought in a big catch. After that miracle, Peter decides to follow Jesus, again?

The third time was after Jesus’ death. He meets up with Peter at his boat and shows him again where the fish were biting and Peter brings in a lot of fish. After this miracle, Peter decides to follow Jesus, again?

My question is why did it take three times for Peter to ‘truly’ follow Jesus? I have mentioned this before in other writings. Peter had two opposing forces in his life: 1) the things he knew how to do, and 2) something new he had to learn. To truly follow Jesus, he had to learn new things and new ways of living life. He knew about fishing – it was his business.

When ministry gets difficult, it is easier to fall back on what we know and push ministry aside. It could have been a ‘money’ thing. Ministry is definitely not a ‘cash cow’ if you are doing it for the right reasons. You begin to look at the time you spend in it for ‘free’ and wonder if you should be applying this time on things that show a ‘profit’. Peter was a business man and probably battled with this. Ministry work has its rewards, but you may never see them until you get to Heaven. Ministry is ‘working’ on faith. Amen?

His Accomplishments In Ministry

We would like to think that Jesus chose the holiest of men that walked the earth to become His disciples, but He didn’t. These were ordinary men with an ordinary life. These guys were no better than we are. As you read the Bible, you will be able to relate to one of these disciples on a personal level.

Jesus worked with and through Peter and accomplished great things. There were many people saved through Peter’s works; churches were built, men and women of God were encouraged to ‘keep going’, and his teachings continue to inspire people all over the world. That’s not too bad for a simple fisherman. The key ingredient was his relationship with Jesus Christ. Even though he made mistakes, Jesus still used him and continues to use him after he died.

We can apply this to our life today. We don’t know how or why Jesus uses us, but if we continue to pursue His righteousness and follow Him, Jesus will accomplish great things through us, too. Yes, we will make mistakes and that’s OK. Keep moving! Jesus knows what He’s doing and He knows how to do it through you!

God bless you!

Jeff

Harbor Of Light Ministries

Jeff Todd was born in Newnan, GA forty years ago. He is currently a minister and teacher of the Word through his ministry, Harbor Of Light Ministries. You can visit them on MySpace (add url plus harboroflightministries)

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The Bible records an wonderful event in our Master’s Life, One day Jesus asked his Disciples to follow him, they all boarded along with him in their boat obeying the word of Jesus by following him. With out any warning a great storm struck their boat. And the disciples cried to Jesus “Lord Save us we are going to drown”. Many times we think following Jesus is bed of roses and we are on high way to heaven with out any problems. Not so my beloved let us see what happens in this portion of the scripture Matthew 8:23-27.

“Then he got into the boat and his disciples followed him. Without warning, a furious storm came up on the lake, so that the waves swept over the boat. But Jesus was sleeping. The disciples went and woke him, saying, �Lord, save us! We’re going to drown!” – Matthew 8:23-25

Following Jesus…

These disciples Just followed Jesus like us following him, because they trusted him and obeyed his word. All of these disciples left their old way of life, some left their fishing Jobs to follow Jesus, some left their Tax collecting Job to follow Jesus, Some left their boats to follow Jesus, Some left their parents to follow Jesus. What have you left behind to follow Jesus, I have left my old way of sinful life to follow Jesus, some of us have left their age old traditions to follow Jesus, In some countries people are even risking their very life to follow Jesus. Like the disciples when we choose to follow Jesus we choose to take his new Life which he has offered even if we have to pay a cost by saying good bye�s to some of our old way of Life. These disciples were filled with great Joy because they were following Jesus.

With out warning a Storm Struck:

Storms in life does not come with warning, Yes here also a great storm hit their boat, Are you today facing storms in your Life which came unexpected in to your safe journey with Jesus?, But my dear friends you need not worry, Just check whether you have the Master in your Boat. The disciples had the savior in their Boat. If you are reading this, who does not have Jesus in your Heart, Please ask him to come in to your Life, He want to board your Life Journey to carry you to the other end. He has prepared a glorious place for us in Heaven. But if you have Jesus in your Life, Fear not my brothers and sisters Just call unto him.

Are you drowning call him now

Prayer is the way to call him and let him know that you need help from him to stop this storm in your Life. Is the Economy storm threatening your life boat, Is the storm in your Marriage threatening your family, Is the doubt and fear storm threatening you, Is the fear of losing Job threatening you, Call the Master now. Call his name Jesus, his name literally means savior. He will deliver you.

“Because he loves me, says the LORD, “I will rescue him; I will protect him, for he acknowledges my name. He will call upon me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble, I will deliver him and honor him. – Psalm 91: 14-15

So like every one in this world we will also face storms in our Life, But we need not fear as long as he is in our boat. When the disciples cried to Jesus for help he stood up and rebuked the storm. And the sea was calm. He will also stop the storms in your Life that is threatening your very existence. Fear not my beloved. He has all authorities is given to him.

He replied, “You of little faith, why are you so afraid?” Then he got up and rebuked the winds and the waves, and it was completely calm. The men were amazed and asked, “What kind of man is this? Even the winds and the waves obey him!” Matthew 8:26-27

Then What does it mean to Follow Jesus?: It Means

* He is with you in the Storm (He will never leave you nor forsake you)

* His Grace is sufficient for you

* He has the Power and Authority to protect you and carry you.

Like the disciples if you ask Who is this who can stop storms in my Life, He is the Son of God Jesus, The author of Life. who came to this world to save us.

Copyright – Jaisam Daniel (2008)

This article has been copyrighted to prevent misuse.

Permission is however given to be printed and shared for free distribution provided this copyright is included.

http://www.ourmastersvoice.org

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The Vision

The vision given Daniel was for his time and a time to come. Likewise, the vision given to John was for his time and a time to come. Today, the vision is for our time and a time to come. Further the visions and their times are connected.

Daniel’s vision of great worldly images describes the continuing development and manifestation of historical events by which the people of God and the world at large have continued to be influenced. Wars have occurred, kingdoms have risen and fallen and physical Jerusalem and its temple were built and restored. But New Jerusalem, the spiritual city and temple representing the completed family of God has yet to be realized.

The Revelation of Jesus Christ is the vision foreseen by Daniel. The time for its unveiling arrived in the time of John. Within the Revelation, the building of spiritual Jerusalem is completed and the temple of God is restored.

Within the Revelation, the future torture, sufferings and persecution for the church then present, was prophetically revealed. But the message of the vision is for the end time church as well. The writings of a host of early church fathers provide descriptions of the persecuted church during those times. In the last days, scripture will be similarly fulfilled. Jerusalem must once again suffer persecution, tribulation and destruction. It is certain that a later day, spiritually evil, pseudo Jerusalem will be destroyed. In the Revelation it is likened to the representative evil of Sodom and Egypt, a representation of evil worldly influence. (Rev 11:8) At that time Jerusalem, the true city of God, the holy people of his church will suffer severe persecution for the testimony of Jesus. Many, who shall be revealed as mere professors’ of the faith, will turn coldly away from the Lord in the great apostasy prophesied for those days.

In every nation, many that shall have previously claimed allegiance to God and His Christ will give new allegiance to the world. They will refuse to suffer as faithful witnesses in holy testimony to the Lord. Unwilling to suffer worldly loss for Jesus, they will give the service of their lives over to the sensual pleasures of this world. Their God shall be the works of their hands. Their faith shall of the world to fulfill the lusts of their flesh. They will become increasingly hedonistic and self idolatrous. They will deny Christ to escape persecution. The weakest walls of the city will crumble. The foundations of the temple will tremble. The ancient prophets, the apostles and the Lord himself give warning of the coming “…great apostasy.”

That seeming loss shall in reality be no loss at all. Those that apostatize were tares. The apostasy is purgative for the sake of the people of God. Truth and hypocrisy shall be separated by tragic evacuation that shall declare unto all, the right of God to bestow forever, the riches of glory upon his faithful children. But the inheritance of those who practice false religion is death eternal without life. There are no options. All is created and consists by the faith of God. Deny the faith of God and you deny existence.

Concerning False Religion

Who gave Jacob to the spoil? Did not the Lord, he against whom we have sinned? (Isa 42:24)

The last book in the Old Testament is a scathing accusation against false religion. Prior to the time of Malachi, the people of God were sent into seventy years of captivity because they transgressed the word of the Lord. They filled their lives with the idolatrous practice of worldly unbelievers and became faithless. (2 Chr 36:14-21; Jer 2:23) After the captivity they eventually became steeped in transgressed once again. Through false worship manifested as vanity, pride, selfishness and pomp, the priests in the days of Malachi were contemptuous before God. He accused them of sacrilege within the service of their calling. (Mal 2:1-8)

The holy church was profaned. Their service, their sacrifice and all they did for God was a profane abomination to the Lord. Their religion was not of God regardless of their claims. They brought the “…torn and the lame for sacrifice…, as if the “…table of the Lord…” was a “…contemptible…” thing. (Mal 1:7-8) God cursed the “…blessings…” of the priests. (Mal 2:1)

The holy office, upon which the people depended for godly communication and administration, was profaned by the priests. It could not bless them, it could only curse them. The Old Testament reveals that as the ways of temple priests were, so were the ways of the people. What a tragic picture and what warning for these days, given unto us who call upon the name of the Lord. For, we are all temple priests with the responsibility of bringing acceptable offerings to the Lord. (1Peter 2:9, Rom 12:1-2, 1st Peter 2:5)

Through the prophets, the Lord spoke to the people concerning his displeasure and severely warned them. (Mal 2:1-11) But the people were hard of hearing and matters progressed for the worst. The effects of conquest by Alexander the Great spread Greek culture throughout the vanquished nations of the world. Eventually, Greek thinking was assimilated by Jewish thought. Thereafter, the wisdom of liberality and legalism common to worldly cultures influenced interpretation and application of the Mosaic Law.

There were some who practiced and protected the old ways. There were certain rabbis and their followers who were known as the ‘pious ones.’ Eventually however, they also erred through legalism and held the people captive therein. The prophet Ezra had introduced a Godly legalism of the law that was necessary to the time shortly after the captivity. Within the instruction given, Israel was instructed to “turn back” and be an obedient, separate people unto God. However, in the course of time religion became professionalized through extreme legalism steeped in traditionalism. Eventually there were Legal specialists known as “scribes” who devoted themselves to the study of the law and began introducing subtle interpretations. As the ‘pious ones’ they stressed morality through painstaking, ceremonial legalism.

God’s warning of abominable service and worship was realized about 230 years after the time of Malachi. Pious, loose religion and dead works would be practiced by one priest alongside dead piety of another.
Onias & Jason, circa 170 BC

Onias was high priest and one of the ‘pious.’ His brother Jason was a Hellenist of the liberals. Jason in an attempt to usurp the priesthood promised the Assyrian King, Antiochus Epiphanes that he would erect a gymnasium and temple to the god Phallus, in exchange for the privilege of Jews to become recognized citizens of Antioch. Jason wanted worldly acceptance, Antiochus complied.

In Antiochus Epiphanes, fulfillment of the Lord’s word of warning came to pass. Antiochus profaned the altar of the temple by sacrificing swine upon it. He set up a statue of himself inside and dedicated it to the pagan Olympian god Zeus. Hebrew children were enrolled in Olympian Games as devotees to pagan gods. Jewish legalism was outlawed. The people were forced to openly sacrifice to idols, upon penalty of death. Anyone found with a copy of the law or the prophets was also put to death. Service to God was destroyed.

The corruption was revealed as progressive internal decadence, within ostentatious, service to God. By such transgression, evil was ultimately personified by a man from the ranks of humanity, raised to defile the house of God, the altar and temple. The temple was taken over by a man seeking to be worshiped. The altar became an object of profanity for abominable sacrifice. This was the desolation.

It seems irrefutable. That persecution was a precursor of that which shall transpire in the later days. Jesus said the “abomination” spoken of by Daniel would be set up in the temple just before the tribulation period. (Matt 24:14-24) Another man in the future shall rule in the temple. The words of Jesus are a dire warning for us upon whom the later days have come. It is the enemy who desires to “…be like the most high…” Antiochus dedicated the temple to Zeus, confirming the Lord’s warning of forthcoming profane religious practice. (Mal 2:11) And so it was, the warning from God was ignored but fulfilled. There is yet another time for these events, once again. Be warned.

False religion entered as priests intermarried with heathen women that worshiped strange Gods. The men followed suit and women of other nations, trained to serve and worship pagan gods, influenced Israel. Thereafter, pagans were accepted and assimilated into citizenship. They brought with them, the idols and rituals of paganism. Through incredible hypocrisy, the priests marrying heathen women thought to keep certain requirements of the law by putting away wives of their own people. Such brazen effrontery, in the face of God, eventually resulted in disastrous consequences. The anger of the Lord rose against His people.

“Judah hath dealt treacherously and an abomination is committed in Israel and in Jerusalem; for Judah hath profaned the holiness of the LORD which he loved, and hath married the daughter of a strange god. (Mal 2:11)

The wrath of God arrived in strength. Two hundred and thirty years into transgression, under the yoke of the Assyrian king, a type of the antichrist spirit to come, Israel witnessed the profanation of the Holy temple. The people had committed great transgression. Through intermarriage with heathen women by the priesthood, the life of the Israelite family was defiled by paganism and eventual pollution within service of the priesthood.

God does not change. The message is clear. Being unequally yoked with an unbelieving world is to be yoked with the idolatry of hedonism, that is, the self serving ways of the world. That is hateful in the eyes of the Lord. (2 Chr 6:14-16) Consequence arrives in timely fashion against those who falsely called upon His name.

We must learn from the lessons of the past. We are just as culpable as those who received warning from Malachi. Scripture is written specifically for the purpose of our learning. (Rom 15:4) In light of what is written concerning the end time and of these things assuredly pointing to the end time, what care should we exercise in purity of service and worship? Should we say that God has changed since the time of Malachi? Should we suppose he now demands less holiness? Are we to suppose that because our Father sacrificed his son to establish our victory that we may now exercise less discipline to holiness? God forbid. Indeed, because of Jesus, our responsibility is even greater. (Mal 3:6)

“And now, O ye priests, this commandment is for you. If ye will not hear, and if ye will not lay it to heart, to give glory unto my name, saith the LORD of hosts, I will even send a curse upon you, and I will curse your blessings: yea, I have cursed them already, because ye do not lay it to heart. Behold, I will corrupt your seed, and spread dung upon your faces, even the dung of your solemn feasts; and one shall take you away with it. (Mal 2:1-3)

Gabriel’s Prophecy 1998

Author LeRoy Ramirez

Age 66

Baptist, entire life.

http://www.leroyramirez.com

mail@leroyramirez.com

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All of the world should praise God. He is good. He shows great mercy and kindness toward us, and His mercy is everlasting. His truth endures to all generations.

The world owes God a great deal of gratitude. He created us, put us on a beautiful planet which He also created, and gives us a chance to enjoy His creations. God also gives us the opportunity to have a personal relationship with Him, through His Son and our Savior, Jesus Christ.

God could easily destroy this world and all who live in it, and start over. Instead, He endures our sinfulness so that those who away from the ways of this wicked world and from their own sinful heart, can enjoy Him and enjoy His love, fellowship, His creations, His gifts, and ultimately, eternal life with Him through believing in Jesus. God is patient, but only for so long. His patience will someday run out and He will destroy all that has made, except for those who are believers. His children. He will create a new universe to enjoy, where sin doesn’t and can’t abide. We are redeemed through Jesus and will be made perfect someday, by the Lord God.

For those who choose not to believe in God, Jesus, or the Holy Spirit, and what they have done and will do for mankind, there will be a literal hell waiting for them. Eternal separation from God. They will be separated forever from everything that is pure, loving, truthful and kind. Don’t let that happen before you pass away. Believe in Jesus today and you will be eternally grateful, eternally secure, and eternally happy. Staring from the moment you accept Christ into your heart and into your life. Praise the Lord!

If you use my articles please let me know so I can give you the credit. I look forward to hearing from you. God bless.

eternalprose@aol.com
This article is the original work and property of Derek Dil

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The associations of our Lord’s nativity were all of the humblest character, and the very scenery of His birthplace was connected with memories of poverty and toil. On that night, indeed, it seemed as though the heavens must burst to disclose their radiant minstrelsies; and the stars, and the feeding sheep, and the “light and sound in the darkness and stillness,” and the rapture of faithful hearts, combine to furnish us with a picture painted in the colors of heaven. But in the brief and thrilling verses of the Evangelist we are not told that those angel songs were heard by any except the wakeful shepherds of an obscure village; –and those shepherds, amid the chill dews of a winter night, were guarding their flocks from the wolf and the robber, in fields were Ruth, their Savior’s ancestress, had gleaned, sick at heart, amid the alien corn, and David, the despised and youngest son of a numerous family, had followed the ewes great with young. “And suddenly,” adds the sole Evangelist who has narrated the circumstances of the memorable night in which Jesus was born, amid the indifference of a world unconscious of its Deliverer, “there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host, praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among men of good will.”

If you wish to read more of this story, then go to our page “The story of the Beautiful life” we have so far added 2 chapters and will be adding more in the near future.  Start reading this wonderful story of our Lords birth and his life as written in the 1800s by Canon Farrar, Arch Deacon of Westminster and the Minister to the Queen of England.

How are an old silk hat, corn cob pipe, button nose, and boots related?? They are all owned by a lump of snow called Frosty, the Snowman.

To the general public, Frosty the Snowman represents joy. The joy of living. The joy of laughter. The joy of hearing children play. The joy of spontaneity. The joy of meaningful work. The joy of being with the people you love. Frosty, the Snowman symbolizes all of that. He is joy personified.

For most people, the very words Frosty the Snowman bring huge smiles A gleam appears in their eyes. Children ages 3 to 93 identify with Frosty’s playfulness and zest for life. But Frosty represents much, much more.

Traditionally, when we ready the Biblical Christmas story it’s either the Gospel of Matthew or Luke that are used. In each of these Gospels you find beautifully-told pieces relating the miraculous birth involving both the Divine and the human. The authors of Matthew and Luke also seek to place the birth of Jesus in a particular historical and cultural setting. Jesus is the son of poor Jewish parents, but is also presented as a descendent of Israel’s greatest king, King David. His birth is given a definite time and place.

But, there is something totally different in Jon. There’s no nativity, no shepherds, no Magi, no star in the sky, no heavenly hosts, not even so much as a Mary and Joseph.

John’s gospel instead is some rather esoteric sounding language about something called “The Word:” “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God” A few verses later you read, “And the Word became flesh and dwelt amongst us” Then, Continuing on, Jesus is suddenly baptized and begins his ministry. If this story were all we had to go on, we might be celebrating Christmas a little differently.

What John’s Gospel tells us is the Word became real, became flesh, became incarnatedand became a living, breathing part of us.

Christmas is an incarnation story. It is the tale of the Incarnating Christ in all of us. It is the chronicle of our unfolding Christhood.

So where does Frosty the Snowman come in Think about it: Frosty came to life one day, dwelt among us and told us It would be back again one day. The parallel is obvious.

Joyfulness, not struggle, is the message. Running and jumping, dancing around in a silk hat, ball cap, boots, sandals or barefooted is the message. We are here to enjoy this Earth experienceto spend this incarnation, happily, healthily and prosperouslyTo dance and play and create and achieve until we melt away.

From Frosty, we can learn a new set of “Three R’s”:

I. Release any worries about the future, and put your attention on now.

II. Recognize the Source: It’s not in your hat – it’s in your heart!

III. Reaffirm Joy, no matter what!

And KNOW that you can never be separated from your good, from God, because you and God are one! And that is cause for JOY!

Several months ago, I was preparing for a Sunday sermon on thanksgiving. The Lord brought to my attention the Samaritan leper’s thanksgiving recorded in Luke 17 verses 11 to 19. This is a very familiar story among Christians. The story goes like this, there were 10 Samaritan lepers who asked Jesus for mercy. Jesus told them to show themselves to the priest. While going there, they found out that they were healed. Sadly, only one of them came back to thank Jesus.

Being a firm believer in expository preaching, I dug deep into the greek words used in the text. I looked up the greek words for “Thanks.” The word here is the word “eucharisteo.” This is where we get our word for “Eucharist.” Eucharisteo is also the same word used in the Gospels when Christs gives thanks for a meal. In the Epistles, the apostle Paul often uses this same word

Interestingly enough, eucharisteo literally means eu = good, well + a form of charis = to favor or thank; to respond to a good favor. Eucharisteo is also used as the verbs form of “favor” or “Charis” in Greek, the modern translation being “Grace.”

Looking at the Greek words and the Gospel story, it finally dawned on me that the Lepers were asking for “Mercy” but for one leper he got “Grace” instead, and he was responding to it thankfully.

There is a big difference between “Mercy” and “Grace” although we sometimes we used them interchangeably. But in reality they are not the same. To simply point out the difference, note that Mercy is “not getting what you deserve.” Grace on the other hand is “getting what you don’t deserve.” The difference is not just a matter of semantics. There is a huge difference between the two. Because of our sins we deserve to go to Hell. But because of God’s mercy we are spared from the punishment of hell. However the reason why we receive eternal life is only because of grace. We do not deserve the eternal life granted to us through the death Jesus Christ, but we received it because of GRACE.

Scripture tells us in Ephesians chapter 2 verse 8 and 9 that “For by Grace are you saved through faith, it is the gift of God, not works lest any man should boast” The gift being reffered to here is “Saving faith.” What this verse is trying to tell us is that even the faith to believe in Jesus Christ is given to us by God. We are so depraved that by ourselves alone we do not have the natural ability to believe the promises of God. What we have is only natural faith. “Super natural faith” is required before we could fully understand what salvation in Christ truly means.

Thanks be to God for giving us “Supernatural faith,” for the faith to believe. Truly it is not because of our own natural ability that we have the faith to believe in Christ, it is only because of Him alone.

Because he realized that he was given this unmerited favor, the Samaritan Leper was so thankful that he “turned back and with a loud voice glorified God, and fell down on his face at His feet, giving Him thanks”

He was then asked by Jesus Christ, “”Were there not ten cleansed? But where are the nine? There are none found that returned to give glory to God, save this stranger.”

And I love this last part, Jesus continues and tells him “Arise; go thy way. Thy faith hath made thee whole.” Literally he is saying to this Samaritan Leper “Your faith has saved you.”

Truly, the Samaritan Leper got more than what he asked for. He asked for mercy but he got grace instead and with that salvation. Being truly thankful is certainly is worth it !

Those words could be said by lovers in this month of hearts. However such words were not said by one lover to another, rather they were uttered by our Lord Jesus Christ as written in John chapter 21 verses 15 to 17.

Most Christians know about this story. Regrettably only a few really understand the meaning of what Christ said because of their failure to look closely at the words that Jesus Christ used.

The story starts with Jesus and Peter having dinner. During the mealtime, Peter was asked by Jesus if he loved him. Peter replied “Yes.” He was then told “feed my lambs.”

Afterwards Jesus again asked Peter the same question to which he replied in the affirmative and then Jesus told him again to “Feed my sheep.”

Jesus again asked Peter the same question the third time. But instead of replying in the affirmative, the verse says that “Peter was grieved” He then told the Lord “thou knowest.” Jesus then replies “Feed my sheep.”

Several people believe that Peter was grieved because Jesus repeatedly asked if he loved him. But I believe there is another reason why Peter was grieved.

The key to understand the passage is to take a close look at the word “Love” as used by Jesus.

When Jesus asked Peter the first time if he loved him, the word used here is the koine greek word “agapao.” This word describes the intensity or weight of the love that Jesus was asking from Peter. This is a pure or ideal kind of love. This is a love that is willing to die for another person. Jesus was asking Peter if he loved him so much that he is willing to sacrifice his life for Jesus.

Peter answered him “Yea Lord, thou knowest that I love thee.” The word used here by Simon Peter is the greek word “Phileo” which only refers to a love with a lesser degree than agapao. Phileo is the word used for “brotherly love.” Christ asked Peter if he loved him to the extent that he is willing to die for him, but Peter replied in the negative by offering only “brotherly love.”

Jesus Christ asked Peter again the second time, using the word “Agapao.” Peter still answered him using “Phileo.”

Suprisingly, the third time Jesus Christ asked Peter if he loves him, instead of using the word “Agapao” the word “Phileo” was used. In other words Jesus Christ appeared to be questioning even the brotherly love that Peter has for him. In effect, Jesus Christ was asking Peter if he was even sure that he loved him as a brother.

So now we now why Peter was grieved. It is quite obvious that Peter was not grieved because he was asked three times by our Lord if he loved him. The cause of his grief is because even the “brotherly” love that he offered was questioned by the Lord Jesus Christ. Peter then humbly replied that Jesus knows everything so there is no need to ask.

Everytime Jesus ask Peter for his commitment of love, Jesus tells him to do something. Feed my lambs once and feed my sheep twice. In effect, He was telling him that love must be demonstrated by action, not just words.

The lesson that we can learn here is that we need to ask ourselves, do we truly love Christ. Do we love him to the extent that we are willing to give up our lives for him? We might not be able to fully understand this because we live in a free country and we are free to worship God. But what if we are tortured for Christ? Are we willing to die for His name ?

Thanks be to God that we do not have to be tortured for our faith to prove our love for him. All He ask of us is that we be good examples to other Christians, to disciple them and help them grow in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.

The name above all names is Jesus (see Philippians 2:9). This high standing was given to Him by the Father because Jesus accomplished what no one else could. What did He accomplish?

1. He resisted sin.

Jesus was tempted in the same areas we are, yet He never made a mistake (see Hebrews 4:15). Think about the phrase “all points” for a minute. This verse is telling us that that every temptation common to man including lying, stealing, bad thoughts, anger, etc. was thrown at Jesus. Yet He never fell for any of it.

“But Karin, Jesus is God. Of course He was able to stand against sin,” you might say. Yes, Jesus is God. However, we have to understand that Jesus did not exist on earth as God but as a man. Part of His purpose was to experience what we have to go through so that He could become a more understanding High Priest (see Hebrews 2:16-18). Jesus stripped Himself of the **privileges** of being God. Because He was infused with and perfectly yielded to the Third Person in the Trinity, He performed great miracles.

2. Jesus manifested the perfect will of God everywhere He went.

He told the truth, healed,cast out demons, met financial needs, and more.

3. He suffered the humiliations of a criminal although He was perfect.

He was severely beaten and called a liar yet He never retaliated. Finally, He was hung on a cross between two thieves. Still, He did not think of Himself. “Father, forgive them because they don’t know what they are doing,” He prayed. He entrusted the care of His mother to the disciple named John when He said: “Woman, behold thy son. Son, behold thy mother.”

4. He became sin who knew no sin.

Jesus, who never sinned, became sin itself so that all who believe in Him could have right standing with God. We see lots of pictures of Jesus hanging on a cross but Isaiah prophesied that He would be severely disfigured (see Isaiah 52:14). This was the result of every sin and sickness known to man invading Jesus’ body.

5. He took our punishment in Hell.

I can’t imagine the torture Jesus went through at the hands of the devil and all his demons.

6. He rose in victory and power.

Jesus took the keys to Hell and Death and then made an open display of the devil as a defeated foe (see Ephesians 4:7-9).

Though His brief life on earth could not have been easy, Jesus remained focused on His mission and accomplished what no other had done: the redemption of all mankind.

Karin Peavy uses her pen to help change lives. She is the author of Hot Chocolate For the Spirit, a new Bible devotional that is chock full of scripture keys that will help you live your best now. Karin also publishes a weekly ezine that reveals the many ways God is moving in your life, sometimes behind the scenes, and perhaps in ways you never imagined. Visit http://www.karinpeavy.com to discover more Bible study resources.
Article Source: ArticleRich.com

Will

Everyone should be a soul winner for Jesus Blog Article. What is soulwinning or winning souls? It is simply fulfilling the great commission that Jesus commanded us to go out to all the world and tell them how to get saved. Click Here to visit my soulwinning website. It will feature many more tips,products, and helpful books on soulwinning

Jesus wants us to tell others about Him so they can get saved. Than we are to tell them about baptism and help them grow in the Lord. Everyone must be a soulwinner for Jesus. In the Bible it says he who winneth souls is wise.

Not everyone will get saved when we go soulwinning but we must go. All we are is messengers. Jesus saves not us. We must not be afraid to tell others about their need of salvation. Hell is real. Heaven is real too.

Jesus needs soul winners to tell everyone about Him and His saving power. Do you have relatives or friends who might not be saved. They need the free gift of eternal life too. Jesus paid for it on the cross. He wants to give everyone eternal life.

Jesus Christ will go with us and help us witness for him. The Holy Spirit will help us to be bold. Let us be soulwinners for Jesus all the time. The Gospel is so simple. Even children can understand the Gospel message.

I will be posting many articles about soulwinning and give helpful tips that others have shared with me. I will also be posting my favorite soulwinning stories on my website. Please read Mark 16:15. It is my favorite soulwinning bible verse. Remember that Jesus gets all the Glory for everything that happens! Click Here to visit my soulwinning website.

Teaching children to pray can be accomplished with consistent application of 6 simple techniques.

1. Are you seen praying? Your children will learn to pray and will see the importance of praying when they see you praying. Leave your door open when you pray so your children will see your example.

2. Lost toys. I encourage my children to kneel down and say a prayer when they cannot find their lost toy. You will notice these prayers become quite fervent. Afterwords make sure your child finds the lost toy and then point out that Heavenly Father heard their prayer.

3. Use rituals. Children love repetition and meal times, bed times and waking up make good starting points. Prayers very quickly become something that is done at these times and is not burdensome to our children.

4. Teach the power of personal prayer. Accepting Jesus Christ into our lives is a very powerful experience and it comes through personal prayer. Our children can tell God anything and this is an important step.

5. Stage Fright. Do you ever feel nervous praying in public? Sometimes, just praying in front of my family makes me nervous. I try to remember though, that this is helping my children when they hear me pray.

6. Flexibility. Teach your children that a short prayer is more important than no prayer at all. If you are hurrying out the door and are loading up in the car and you have forgotten morning prayers, at least have one of the children say a prayer while you are driving.

Families that pray together will stay together as the saying goes. Prayer teaches reverence and humility. When children pray for lost toys and other things it develops faith at a very early age.