Inspiration

 

 

THE RICH RULER

 

Luke 18: The parable of the rich young ruler is representative of many who are convinced that what they do or believe in is sufficient to find their way into Heaven. Within the religious community it is unfortunate for those whose faith and trust is in the doctrine of that religion. I remember writing about a Catholic priest who, after three months of reading the Bible got so convicted of the Word that he got down on his knees and asked Jesus to be his Savior. His faith and trust was in the church doctrine; his relationship is now with Jesus.

 

Can you imagine what happens when, with a sincere heart and desire to know the truth, you open the Word of God? It’s difficult to believe the above story because the individual was a priest and one would think he knew all about the Bible. Perhaps he might have had an intellectual understanding but that doesn’t work with God.

 

God wants us to approach Him as little children, innocent and trusting. In verse 17 Jesus tells the Disciples, “I tell you the truth, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.”

 

‘Today might just be the day to be a ‘little child.’

 

 

 

Inspiration

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                               

  

DON’T TRY IT

 

Luke 17:33: Jesus said: “Whoever tries to keep his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life will preserve it.” This verse is saying if you try it without Jesus, if you think you can go it alone, you lose. If, on the other hand you lose your life to Jesus by accepting His free gift, then you will save it.

 

The moral of the analogy is simple and straight forward: Take a step in faith and accept Him. There is no other way; but many will try and will be looking for someone to cool their tongue as did the rich man in Luke 16.

 

The Living Word of God is yours for the reading, why not begin today?

 

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Inspiration

 

 

THE AGONY AND REALITY OF HELL

Luke 16:24: “So he called to him, Father Abraham, have pity on me and send Lazarus to dip the tip of his finger in water and cool my tongue, because I am in agony in this fire.” Verse 25: “But Abraham replied, ‘Son remember that in your lifetime you received your good things, while Lazarus received bad things, but now he is comforted here and you are in agony.’” Lazarus lay at this man’s gate, a beggar, when he was alive and I’m sure he passed by Lazarus without giving him a second thought.

 

This does not mean that all rich people will go to hell, there will be many who will go to Heaven if they accepted Jesus as Savior; apparently this rich man had his faith and trust in his riches. By the same token not all poor people will go to Heaven; again it’s a matter of faith in Jesus.

 

 

 

 

 

 

THE AGONY AND REALITY OF HELL

Luke 16:24: “So he called to him, Father Abraham, have pity on me and send Lazarus to dip the tip of his finger in water and cool my tongue, because I am in agony in this fire.” Verse 25: “But Abraham replied, ‘Son remember that in your lifetime you received your good things, while Lazarus received bad things, but now he is comforted here and you are in agony.’” Lazarus lay at this man’s gate, a beggar, when he was alive and I’m sure he passed by Lazarus without giving him a second thought.

 

This does not mean that all rich people will go to hell, there will be many who will go to Heaven if they accepted Jesus as Savior; apparently this rich man had his faith and trust in his riches. By the same token not all poor people will go to Heaven; again it’s a matter of faith in Jesus.

 

 

 

 

 

Inspiration

NO NEED TO REPENT

 

Luke 15:6-7: “…rejoice with me I have found my lost sheep. I tell you that in the same way there will be more rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who do not need to repent.” These are beautiful words from our Savior, aren’t they?

 

Yes indeed the Angels in Heaven do rejoice whenever a sinner accepts Jesus as Savior. I wouldn’t be surprised if they have a party every time.

 

As for the ‘righteous’ who think they don’t have to repent, all I can say is good luck.

 

 

THE GREAT BANQUETiration

THE GREAT BANQUET

 

Luke 14:18: “But they all alike began to make excuses…” What a great parable to demonstrate how Israel refused to accept God’s invitation to accept Jesus as the Messiah.

 

As a result the invitation went to the Gentiles: “bring in sinners, the poor, the crippled, the blind and the lame.” After the death and resurrection of Jesus the entire world had an opportunity to accept Him as their personal Savior; and the same is true today.

 

The invitation is extended to you and all you need is to step out in faith; today.

 

 

 

 

 

Inspiration

 

 

THE NARROW DOOR

 

Luke 13:24: “Make every effort to enter through the narrow door, because many, I tell you will try to enter and not be able to.” Is Jesus telling those who ask Him to come into their heart as Savior to be denied?

No, what it is saying is many people who think they know the true God, or have the necessary faith for salvation, just don’t have it; they are probably religious people who have faith in their religion but not God.

 

This is the very reason religions can be dangerous for people who place their trust and faith in it’s doctrine; in the ‘do this’ and ‘don’t do that’ philosophy.

 

I suppose it is possible to have accepted Jesus as one’s Savior and continue to be a member of a religion, as long as one does not do, or go along with things that are contrary to the teachings of Jesus. I am not entirely convinced of what I just said but it is a compromise. God is the final judge.

 

Personally I would rather listen to what Jesus tells us in the Gospels, literally. Why take a chance?

 

 

Inspiration

 

 

 

 

HE IS MY GOD

 

Luke 12:8: “I tell you, whoever acknowledges me before men, the Son of Man will also acknowledge him before the angels of God,” quoted by Jesus. Is He the God of your life? Do you acknowledge Him before others? Most importantly, have you accepted Jesus as your personal Savior?

 

It is impossible to acknowledge God as your God unless you have first accepted Jesus as your Savior. Many will say he is my god but what god are they talking about? Is it the God of the Bible or the god of this world?

 

Judgment Day is in the future of every person born of woman; this will be the day each of us will know if the god they chose is the One who will be sitting in the judge’s chair, so to speak. Many will ask; ‘how can I know?

 

When you accept His free gift you will know. Today could be the day if you have yet to make that life saving decision.

     

 

 

Inspiration

WOE

 

Luke 11:52: “Woe to you experts in the law, because you have taken away the key to knowledge. You yourselves have not entered, and you have hindered those who were entering.” Jesus rebukes the teachers of the law because of their ignorance to the truth of God’s word.

 

This is the way of the religious: to place burdens, guilt trips, confusion and worst of all, a path leading to hell.

In Matthew 23:13 it says in part: ”…shut the kingdom of heaven in men’s faces.”

 

 

 

 

 

Inspiration

 

 

 

THE GOOD SAMARITAN

 

Luke 10:36: “Which of these three do you think was a neighbor of the man who fell into the hands of robbers?” I’m sure we all remember the story of the Good Samaritan how a priest and a Levite wouldn’t help him. It was the Good Samaritan who stopped to help him in his time of need, who remembered to love his neighbor as he would himself.

 

A great lesson if we would others as He loves us. I believe this demonstration to be close to God’s kind of love (Agape love requiring nothing in return); because I’m sure he didn’t expect the man to repay him.

 

God freely gave His love to us in Jesus, why not do the same with everyone we encounter. It would be a fine world, indeed; and we would feel better.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Inspiration

 

TAKE NOTHING

 

Luke 9:3: “Take nothing for your journey-no staff, no bag, no bread, no money, no extra tunic.” This is what Jesus told the disciples when He spoke to them regarding their missionary work. This required tremendous faith but they did and their needs were fulfilled.

 

We need faith for salvation and living our lives as do many others in the Christian family. I have always questioned a lack of faith on the part of Pastors continually, week after week, asking for money. My Chr mentor once told me that in his ministry he never asked for money; and yet he was responsible for the creation of many, many Churches throughout the world. Was the Lord involved? I would have to say yes.

 

I do believe it is Biblically okay to tell congregations when the need for funds arises, but only rarely and never in such a way as to embarrass anyone, Faith has got to be the prevailing factor in the Church family and the best example is to wait upon the Lord; He will provide. He is the one person we can trust. I don’t know if there is a minister in this world that would agree with me but I do believe God would. Much can be said in this area.

 

 

 

Inspiration

 

 

 

FEAR AND AMAZEMENT

 

Luke 8:25: “Where is your faith?” Jesus asked this question of the Disciples when they were in a boat and a fierce storm came up. They thought they were going to drown. In in fear they thought they would drown and awakened Jesus who immediately calmed the storm.

 

This situation should encourage us because we all go through times when our faith is tested. The Disciple’s faith weakened and they were in the physical presence of the Lord. We are not, so if your faith seems to wane at times do not be discouraged; remember satan is alive and well is always attempting to weaken our faith. Remember Jesus’ words, “I have overcome the world.” Therefore fret not, pray a lot.

 

 

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Inspiration

FORGIVEN SINS

 

Luke 7: 45: “Your sins are forgiven;” Jesus explained to Simon why He forgives big time sinners such as the prostitute. It’s simple, the greater the sinner the more they need forgiveness and we must remember Jesus’ specific purpose coming to earth was to save sinners.

 

In verse 50 Jesus is quoted: “Your faith has saved you.” Regardless of the kind of sin (there is one sin that cannot be forgiven-blaspheming the Holy Spirit, Luke 12:10) all can be forgiven. How? As Jesus said in verse 50, “Your faith has saved you; go in peace.”

 

Need more be said than what can save any sinner? Enjoy the day in His love.

 

 

 

 

                  

 

 

Inspiration

 

 

LISTEN TO HIM

 

Luke 6:36: “Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful.” “Do not judge or condemn, remember to forgive and give to others.”   Shouldn’t we conduct our lives like this?

 

God certainly practiced what he preached when He sent His Son to be crucified for those who believe; He showed His love and mercy. He is not asking us to sacrifice like He did, no, He is asking us to live a life of love, loving Him and others as we would ourselves.

 

The best way I know to accomplish this is to become a member of His family; to put your self up for adoption by accepting Jesus as your Savior. Today would be a great day to live love.

 

 

 

 

 

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Inspiration

 

 

 

 

COME O’ YE SINNER

 

Luke 5:31: “It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.” Jesus said it, I accept it.

 

Here we see why the ‘good’ and ‘righteous’ people will never be with the Lord; because Jesus said He didn’t come for them. Sinner’s need forgiveness and need Jesus; Righteous people, although they need Jesus, don’t believe they need Jesus because of their sin. They feel what they believe is enough i.e., being good. Remember Jesus said there is “no one that is good except God.”

 

Does this mean that good and righteous people cannot get into Heaven? No, it simply means they need to admit their sin is what is separating them from God. They need to get rid of the ‘holier than thou’ attitude, get on their knees, admit they are sinners and ask God for forgiveness. They need to believe in what Jesus is saying and accept Him as their Lord and Savior. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Inspiration

THE GOOD NEWS

 

Luke 4:43: Jesus says: “I must preach the good news of the kingdom of God to the other towns also, because that is why I was sent.” What is the Good news? It is God’s plan of salvation. How is one saved? Obey the 10 commandments (the law)? Be righteous? Be good to others? Join a religion? No, no, no and no.

 

Jesus says “no one is good, no one is righteous.” Israel proved they couldn’t keep the law in the Old Testament; in fact no one under the New Covenant could either. Joining a religion and following their doctrine isn’t going to work. I believe the answer lies with Jesus and His message i.e., the Good News which, very simply, is God’s plan of salvation. It is simplicity that confounds man; one person said ‘a simple prayer of acceptance can’t do it.’ That isn’t what Jesus is saying though.

 

God said that “He loved us so much that He sent His Son and anyone that believes in Him will never perish.”   He died on the cross for sinner’s, who confessed their sin’s to Him and will not be lost but would be saved i.e., be with Him in Heaven for eternity. As Bugs Bunny used to say, “That’s all there is folks.” 

 

Inspiration

PREPARE THE WAY

 

Luke 3:4: “As it is written in the book of the words of Isaiah the prophet: A voice of one calling in the desert, prepare the way for the Lord,…” This was John’s mission that focused on repentance and forgiveness of sin and the need for a Savior. As I have said before John’s baptism could not provide salvation; it had to be by the Holy Spirit through faith in the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

 

In Acts 1:5, Jesus speaks to the Disciples: “For John baptized with water, but in a few days you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.” This occurred on the day of Pentecost when they were all together in one room, (Acts 2:1-4). It’s amazing how the Bible explains itself when you give it a chance. Today you might want to read a little about Jesus.

 

 

 

 

Inspiration

THE BIRTH OF JESUS

 

Luke 2: Praise the day the Lord was born for in Him we have our salvation. The Old Testament tells about the hard heartedness of Israel and the absence of faith in the God of the Bible; except for a few. God created the 10 commandments (the law) to show them why it was impossible to please Him by obeying the law because no one could. It was faith then as it is today.

 

The difference today is the simplicity of the plan of salvation as presented by Jesus and what He says has to be done. There are 27 books in the New Testament and it is my opinion (be careful of opinions) Jesus’ plan of salvation can be summed up in one verse, John 3:16: “For God so loved the world  that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him should never perish but have eternal life.” There are many religious people who cannot accept His simple plan; they believe there has to be some extra necessary baggage. I heard from a person who said she has accepted Jesus and what He died for but still finds it necessary to follow much her religion’s doctrine. I can appreciate that because years and years of indoctrination don’t disappear overnight.

 

Perhaps there are readers who are in the same situation; my advice is if you feel it is necessary to adhere to your religion, okay, as long as what you do doesn’t contradict the teachings of Jesus. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Inspiration

WATCH

 

Mark 13:37: “What I say to you, I say to everyone: Watch.” Jesus had just finished describing the end times to the Disciples when He finished the discussion with the word, ‘Watch.’

 

Think of the word ‘watch’ to mean, ‘wait and you will see.’ Yes we will all see the end times but the big question for everyone is what kind of a seat will you have; better still will you even be in the stadium, so to speak? To get inside the stadium one must have a ticket. Where does one get a ticket? Certainly not at Ticket Masters and not even at the gate because then it will be too late. The day I ‘heard’ Jesus was giving free tickets I very happily accepted His offer and I am now in possession of a free ticket. And the best part is I can’t lose it nor can anyone take it from me. So today listen to Him ‘speak’ to you; try John 3:3 and 5.

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Inspiration

                                       

 

 

                                                                        

                                                                              THE CAPSTONE

 

Mark 12:10: “Haven’t you read this scripture: ‘The stone the builders rejected has become the capstone; the Lord has done this, and it is marvelous in our eyes,’” see also Paslm118:22. Capstone means a stone used at the top of a wall; which is considered the highest achievement or most important action in a series of actions.

 

Could anything describe the Lord Jesus and His most unselfish act of giving His life for believers, better? The parable of the Tenants in this chapter describes why Jesus turned away from His people and to the Gentile. His death on the cross opened the way to the Father, giving all who accept Jesus as Savior direct access to God.

 

These events proved to be a tremendous opportunity for all. Where do you stand in your spiritual life? Are you in limbo, undecided or confused? I can tell you this; it won’t help if you look to man for an answer. While you may get advice from well meaning people, even born again believers like myself, the ONLY real help you can receive is by reading His Living Word. Why not begin today?

 

Inspiration

THE TRIUMPHAL ENTRY

 

Mark 11:2 We find Jesus telling the Apostle’s; “…go into the village and you will find a colt no one has ever ridden.” He was to ride this colt into the village where He would spend the rest of His ministry. Riding the colt   was a fulfillment of prophecy. This was actually the beginning of the end of His ministry.

 

Jesus knew what was to come and yet the love he possessed, the love he had for the sinner, surpassed any selfish reasons he might want to use as a means of escaping the dreaded torture and crucifixion that was inevitable. It had to be and he knew it. We should remember that Jesus was not only the Son of God, but also man. I am convinced He had the same feelings any innocent man would have knowing that He was about to be executed for claiming His rightful position; performing miracle after miracle proving He was God.

 

This is the kind of God we have; demonstrating a love we cannot understand or appreciate. I pray you might want to get to know Him as so many of us do. May your day exemplify His love.

                                                                                                                                              

                                                                                                                                                    

  

 

Inspiration

COME AS A LITTLE CHILD

 

In Mark10:15 Jesus said: “I tell you the truth, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.”

 

What Jesus is telling us is certainly not complicated; He is simply saying that if anyone wants to enter Heaven, acceptance of Jesus our Savior must be on the basis of faith; the same faith a child exhibits towards his parents.

 

Young children are innocent; they haven’t lived long enough to be influenced by the world. A parent can tell a child anything and the child will believe because of faith. We board an airplane on faith; we drive down the freeway in an auto because we have faith that it won’t blow up. Almost everything in life is based on faith, so why not accept Jesus as our Savior in the same way? Proof will follow faith Paul, in 2^nd Corinthians says: “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come. “Today might be your day to be a “child.”

 

Inspiration

LAST IS FIRST

 

Mark 9:35: “If anyone wants to be first, he must be the very last, and the servant of all.” Jesus said this to the Apostle’s when He explained that people must ‘come to Him as little children.’ The greatest example we have is Jesus who served us during His brief life on earth culminating in the most unselfish act ever witnessed-the Crucifixion.

 

To serve Him is to “love Him and our neighbor as we would ourselves,” as told by Jesus. We worship God in this way and we honor Him by doing this work.

 

In my dwindling years I will honor Him by loving Him and loving my neighbor as I would myself; I know the latter is not always easy but at the very least we can try. It will be much easier to accomplish this if only we will learn to love each day.

 

 

 

Inspirarion

WATCH OUT

 

Mark 8:15: “Be careful,” “Watch out for the yeast of the Pharisees…” The Pharisees, a religious sect, wasn’t much different than the religious organizations of today; they have their own rules and regulations and their own agenda. Jesus spent a great deal of time chastising them, very pointedly I might add; John referred to them as vipers.

 

What this all means is we are to be careful of religious organizations. I have written a great deal about the differences between religion and Christianity and I guess the reason is because the Bible has lot to say about it; especially Jesus. I will go to my grave trying to inform people because it is a serious issue. The difference for people is the difference between their final destinations; Heaven or hell.

 

Jesus never told anyone to believe in anything except the Father (and Him of course) and the reason he came to earth; to die for, and save the sinner. You can know this for a fact if you will read Mark 8:15 in His Living Word.

 

Inspiration

HE IS THE ONLY WAY

 

No matter how many times I read the Bible I am always fascinated by new discoveries. When Paul said the Bible is” living and active” he wasn’t kidding. Mark 7:6-8 clearly establishes He is the only way to Heaven.

 

“Isaiah was right when he prophesied about ‘you hypocrites;’ as it is written; ‘These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me. They worship me in vain; their teachings are but rules taught by men. You have let go of the commands of God and are holding on to the traditions of men.”

 

If these words don’t convince you that religion doesn’t do it, then I don’t know what will. He was talking to religious people who were doing it their way. As I have said many times, religion and Christianity are like oil and water; they are both liquid but quite the opposite in other respects. Enjoy the day with Him.

                                                         

 

 

Inspiration

IT IS I

 

“Take courage, it is I, Don’t be afraid.” Mark 6:50 gives us the beautiful and most encouraging words of Jesus.

My dear friends we are not to live a life in fear of anything because He is with us and He will never leave us. His words are, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” And: I have overcome the world.

 

When we go through life’s trials and temptations, as Jesus said we would, we should remember His words when He said; “Lo, I am with you always.” When He said we can be joyful no matter what circumstance, even illness, we can be, because He also said He would never allow us to suffer beyond our capabilities. We must remember all believers are victorious, in Jesus.

 

 

                                                  

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Inspiration

WHO TOUCHED ME?

 

In Mark 5 Jesus asked, “Who touched my clothes?” He felt power flowed out when someone touched Him. This is the healing of the woman who had been sick for 12 years.

Jesus told her when she confessed it was she who had touched Him; “Daughter, you faith has healed you. Go in peace and be freed from your suffering.”

 

What I like about that story, what excites me so much is that someday we will all experience His blessing when we see Him in Heaven; when He stands before the Father on Judgment Day as our intermediary. God will see only Jesus when He looks at us and will never see our sins.

 

Today is a great day to rejoice in our freedom.

 

Inspiration

THE SEED SOWER

 

The parable of the seed sower in Mark 4 is a great lesson in spreading the Good News. I also used the concept in my business life with tremendous success. The whole idea is for us to not be concerned about the results of whether or not people accept what we are saying. The way Jesus so aptly put it we are to plant the seed of salvation at every opportunity and know that while they might hear what we are saying only a few will respond positively and look to Jesus. Please remember we cannot convert anyone; that is between God and people, but we can and should always look for opportunity’s to deliver.

 

Mt: 28:19: “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirt…” Today is a good day to sow a seed.

  

 

             

 

Inspiration

MOTHER, BROTHER AND SISTER

 

Isn’t it wonderful that you can be the mother, brother or sister of Jesus? In Mark 3:35 Jesus says: “Whoever does God’s will is my brother and sister and mother.” Jesus said it and I accept it. How about you?

 

What is God’s will? Simple obedience; to obey Him is to love Him and love others. These are the two commandments Jesus gave us while He was here on earth; nothing more, nothing less. You, too, can ‘hear’ God say this by ‘listening’ to His word by reading the Bible.

 

Inspiration

COME FOLLOW ME

 

When Jesus saw Simon and Andrew He said, in Mark 1:17, “come, follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.” What did they do? Did they stop to think about the invitation? No, they immediately dropped what they were doing and went with Him.

 

This is faith; this is accepting the calling of God, without question, without deliberation. There are so many places in Scripture Jesus has invited people to be saved by accepting His invitation. But, if you have not accepted His invitation yet, today may be the day you can change your life by your invitation to Him.

 

Inspiration

HE HAS RISEN

 

Matthew 28:6: “He is not here; He has risen, just as He said.” Herein is our joy, our hope and our future. We believers will be with Him forever, as we are today in Spirit.

 

These are some of the most beautiful and fulfilling words in the Bible. He is risen; oh the joy of this revelation. Is it a joy in your life? Do you know what it is to know your Savior? If not I pray that you will:

 

Inspiration

THE VEIL

 

Matthew 27:51; “At that moment the curtain of the temple (veil) was torn from top to bottom. The earth shook and the rocks split.”  

 

It was a supernatural event and it opened the way for all to have direct access to God, through Jesus Christ, our precious Lord and Savior. 

 

Let us remember the word’s of Paul in Romans 8:26 where he says, “We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express.” We should not be concerned with what we say but that we say it.

 

Today let’s give Holy Spirit the opportunity to take our groans to the Lord.

 

Inspiration

NOT MY WILL

 

Matthew 26:39: “My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will but as you will.”

 

Jesus wanted the ‘cup’ (crucifixion) to be taken from Him, but the question is, why? Was it because He didn’t want to suffer the humiliation, pain and suffering of the cross, or was it because He knew He would be separated from the Father, even if it were only temporary?

 

Des it matter, the answer? No, because the fact remains that He was willing to do both for us; i.e., those who have or will accept His free gift of salvation. This is a committed love that I cannot fully appreciate, perhaps because it is supernatural. There are so many things Jesus did for us that the only way to appreciate them is to know what they are and the only way to know what they are is to:

 

 

 

 

 

Inspiration

THE SHEEP AND THE GOATS

 

Matthew 25:31-46: There are two widely accepted interpretations of this passage but the issue is to the timing as to when the judgment occurs. Rather than to major on the immaterial let’s focus on the real message; is one in or is one out?

 

I don’t mean to be funny (humor is acceptable) about this point because it is, or should be, a very serious concern to all; righteous (saved) vs. unrighteous (unsaved). It is apparent that a test of one’s spiritual state is how they treat God’s people (Jews) during this period (the end times). The saved will treat them kindly and the unsaved will treat them harshly. This is almost akin to faith and works as explained in James 2. There is such a faith as mere intellectual (believing in, but not accepting) and this type of faith is, in fact, dead as James tells us.

 

People will take Scripture like this out of context and create unnecessary confusion, attempting to demonstrate that good works are necessary for salvation, which is not the truth. Let’s be sheep by creating a personal relationship with Jesus and be saved.

 

 

 

 

Inspiration

WHEN IS THE RIGHT TIME?

 

There is but one answer; NOW. In Matthew 24:3 the Disciples asked Jesus; ”…and what will the sign of your coming be?” In Matthew 24:42 Jesus says; “Therefore keep watch, because you do not know on what day your Lord will come.”

 

One of two possible scenarios exists; believer’s will either go home before the Lord comes or He will come for His Church while we still alive. Which ever occurs first my question is whether of not you will be ready. What do you need to do to be ready?

 

Those who have already accepted Jesus are assured of their place in Heaven; therefore they must keep watch, as Jesus told them in verse 42. To keep watch is to be vigilante, i.e., to be living in such a way as would make you proud of what you are doing should He come before we go.

 

If you have yet to make your decision for Jesus I would suggest that NOW is as good a time as any. A simple faith prayer of confession to Him and acceptance of what Jesus died for on the cross and you will be born again into His family and is all that is necessary.

 

Inspiration

THE SEVEN WOES

 

Sometimes I feel obligated to render a personal opinion when I read certain Scripture such as Matthew 23 and the seven woes.

 

I believe the Lord was and is talking to the religious community. I have always rendered my opinion of religion to be a sure way not to please God. I am not going to criticize any particular religion except to say we do not need any more than what we find in the Holy Bible. In the Old Testament days God used Prophets to speak to the people, now that we are in the Church Age (since the resurrection of Jesus) God speaks to us through His Holy Word.  Whatever we need to know is in His Living Word. I just learned you can have Google search your question in the Bible. How easy is that?

 

  

 

Inspiration

EVER WONDER?

 

When Jesus told the Disciples to love God with all their heart and mind, and to love their neighbor as they would themselves (Matthew 22:37-39) it created a question in my mind.

 

Why did Jesus not say to love your neighbor as you would God or just plain love your neighbor? Why did He say, ‘as yourself?’ Is it because we would forgive ourselves when we did wrong or to not hold grudges against ourselves? I believe so.

 

The wisdom of God is boundless; it has no limitations; enjoy His fruit today. 

            

 

Inspiration

 

 

 

 

THE SHELF

 

Jesus, in Matthew 21:43: said to the Jews: “Therefore I tell you that the kingdom of God will be taken away from you and given to a people who will produce its fruit.” This was a prophetic statement fulfilled on the day Jesus was crucified. At that moment the veil in the Temple was torn from top to bottom climaxing the end of one era and entering another. The veil, covering the Holy of Holies, was now open to allow anyone direct access to God. 

 

The Jewish nation was ‘placed on a shelf’ so to speak. God will address them at a future time. Today is our opportunity to change our natural destiny by accepting God’s gift to us if you haven’t already done so.     

 

 

Inspiration

AN OFFER YOU SHOULDN’T REFUSE

 

Matthew 20:28: “just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many.”

 

Could we ask for more? Could anyone ask for more of a sacrifice than to offer up one’s own life? Well, Jesus did and He is still in the ‘service’ mode. He is willing to forgive your most grievous sin against Him and willing to accept you into His family and His offer is LIFE ETERNAL.

 

 

 

Inspiration

THE RICH YOUNG MAN

 

Matthew 19:20: “All these I have kept, what do I still lack?” The rich young man was asking Jesus what he must do to be saved. Jesus told him to keep the commandments and sell everything he owned and give it to the poor, and follow Him; the rich young man could not separate himself from his wealth

 

The point Jesus made was that the man was not willing to accept Jesus’ offer which was twofold; to give up the old life and accept the new life in Jesus.

 

Today would be a great day to give up the old life if you haven’t already done so. 

 

 

Inspiration

SON OF MAN

 

Matthew 18:11: “For the Son of Man is come to save that which is lost.” Matthew also tells us that we must have the innocence of little children to approach God.

 

Excellent advice to rid ourselves of the baggage created by others and used to confuse us. Faith requires us to accept things we cannot see; so it is with little children. Faith in Jesus is the road that leads us to Heaven. 

 

Today let’s rejoice in the news that He has come.

 

Inspiration

LISTEN TO HIM

 

God tells the Disciples to listen to Jesus in Matthew 17:5. God also said that he was well pleased with His Son. We would all do well to know why God said that; it was because of His obedience to the Father. Again we would do well to follow His direction.

 

How do we obey, what do we do to obey? We should do what Jesus has told us in the Scriptures, which is to love and honor God with all ours heart and to love our neighbor as we would ourselves.

 

The greatest honor we can give our Father is to accept His gift to us; Jesus as our Savior. He is “the way, the truth and the life. no one comes to the Father except through Him.”

 

 

Inspiration

I WILL BUILD MY CHURCH       

 

Matthew 16:18 Jesus says: ”You are Peter and, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it.” This is where we are today, in the era of the Church age and isn’t it comforting to know that the Lord has told us that the devil and his forces cannot destroy it.

 

The Greek word petra is used here which simply means truth. The Greek word petros means rock and refers to Peter and is not used here. The church age began on the day of Pentecost; the same day of the coming of the Holy Spirit. The message of salvation was to be spread to the world.

 

Our salvation is belief in and acceptance that God gave us His Son to be our Savior; He paid for our sins; He set us free. He did what we couldn’t do; but what we can do is to faithfully accept His gift. And He did it once and for all who would believe.

 

 

Inspiration

TRADITION vs. FAITH

 

In Mathew 15 we see the difference between tradition and faith. Some Pharisees and teachers of the law approached Jesus curious about the Disciples not washing their hands before they eat. Jesus replied: “Why do you break the command of God for the sake of your tradition.” The point here is that they were more concerned about tradition rather than pleasing God.

 

Then we read why Jesus healed the Canaanite’s daughter in verse 28 when He said: “Woman you have great faith! Your request is granted.” She was a Gentile and even though Jesus had come only for His people (Israel), His compassion and love compelled Him to grant her request. And she had the one requirement necessary; faith.

 

This is an excellent example of tradition (religion) and faith. Tradition gets in the way of salvation and faith IS the way. 

 

 

Inspiration

JESUS WALKS ON WATER

 

In Matthew 14 we find that Jesus walked on water and Peter did, also. What was it that caused Peter to begin to sink when he realized he was actually walking on water? Was it lack of trust? Was it lack of faith? Obviously it was a little of each but I believe it was more of a trust problem. It’s like looking at a pond in winter that is frozen because you can see the ice formation, but can you trust that it will bear your weight if you walk on it?

 

We are saved because we have faith in the His Word, but can we trust when He tells us to live a more abundant life? He told us He came so we would live a more abundant life (John10:10). He came to provide a way in which we can have peace and joy, even in sorrowful times. Can we trust His word? I do. I hope you do, too. The best way I know to develop and maintain a trusting relationship with Him is to read the Bible daily. 

 

 

Inspiration

THE SEED SOWER

The parable of the Seed Sower in Matthew 13 is very interesting and the concept is very practical and can be used in everyday life. I would like to explain how I used it most effectively in my professional life when I was in the life insurance business.

 

It is said that motivation and a positive attitude are the keys to success for sales people. While I don’t disagree I believed there was a better way. When I read the parable of the Seed Sower a light went on. I began to teach my sales people that a PROPER attitude was a better key to success. I was convinced a properly trained sales person would not only be more successful but would be much happier.

 

Life insurance sales people were not as welcomed in my day as they are today, so discouragement was a big factor. I prepared my people by teaching how this parable could help them succeed:

1)    The seed that fell on the roadside represented people who would not listen; nothing personal.

2)    The seed that fell on the rocky places that grew and withered when the sun came up, represented people who would make an appointment and not keep it.

3)    The seed that grew among thorns and was choked represented people who would purchase insurance but would cancel it prematurely.

4)    The seed that fell on the good soil that grew and reproduced itself, represented the people who would purchase, become a client and provide referrals.

 

An understanding of this parable prepared my people with a PROPER attitude and they went on to help me become the leading General Agent for all the years I was associated with this company. An additional benefit was the retention of man power which was eight times the industry standard. So, not only will the Bible help your career as it did mine, but can help you in all areas of life, therefore:

 

 

 

 

Inspiration

MY YOKE IS EASY

 

Matthew 11:28, 29 & 30: “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”

 

Nothing can be said to improve on those words; His yoke is easy and His burden is light. Don’t those words just speak volumes to you? What it tells me is how easy Jesus has made it for us to know the Father; no need for anything or anyone other than His legacy to us, the written Word. Meditate on those words, or better yet read His Word.

 

 

Inspiration

MY YOKE IS EASY

 

Matthew 11:28-30: “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”

 

Nothing can be said to improve on those words; His yoke is easy and His burden is light. Don’t those words just speak volumes to you? What it tells me is how easy Jesus has made it for us to know the Father; no need for anything or anyone other than His legacy to us, the written Word. Meditate on those words, or better yet read His Word.

 

Inspiration

THE LOST SHEEP OF ISRAEL

John 10:5, 6, quotes Jesus: “Do not go among the Gentiles or enter any town of the Samaritans. Go rather to the lost sheep of Israel.”

 

Wouldn’t that make you feel left out? Forgotten by God? Remember Jesus didn’t come for the Gentiles, He came for His people; the Jews.

 

But, and a big but at that, when they refused to accept Him as the Messiah and then crucified Him, guess what happened? That’s right, welcome Gentiles. When Jesus died on the cross many things happened at that moment, one of them being the tearing of the veil in the Temple that originally was to prevent anyone, except the High Priest, from entering the Holy of Holies and the presence of God.

 

The tearing of the veil was to signify that everyone now has direct access to the Father. No need for any intermediary other then Jesus.

 

When one reads the Bible and believes what he/she reads it is enlightening, encouraging and most of all deepens our faith.