Inspiration

A WAY TO LIVE

 

Romans 12:9-13: “Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Share with God’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality.”

 

What could I or anyone else for that matter add to those words? There is much wisdom in these instructions that can only be God inspired. While my passion is to stay within the confines of salvation I could not do justice to this chapter unless I delivered word for word Paul’s message of how Christians should live.

 

Exhibiting these characteristics in our daily lives is the greatest testimony of one’s acceptance and commitment to the Lord. But we must share the Good News.

 

 

 

 

IInspiration

GLORY TO HIM IN ALL THINGS

 

Romans 11:36: “For from him and through him and to him are all things. To him be the glory forever! Amen.”

Some day all believers will see and live the reality of what Paul is saying. In a nutshell, so to speak, all the glory belongs to God. We should thank Him daily for His mercy and grace; grace is unmerited favor, i.e., we didn’t deserve to be saved, then, as now.

 

We Gentiles have so much to be thankful for, salvation came to us when His people (Israel) rejected Jesus. Paul uses an analogy of grafted branches to explain this particular point. Branches (Israel) were broken off and Gentiles were grafted in. The day will come, however, when He will graft Israel back into the tree.

 

This chapter can be confusing, I have tried to simplify it and not take anything away from what Paul is saying. I recommend your reading this chapter to hear all of what Paul is saying to both the Jew and the Gentile.

                                                 

 

Inspiration

HOW GOD SPEAKS

 

Romans 10:17: “Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word of Christ.” That is how God speaks to us; He left His ‘voice’ by giving us His Living Word. For those who might doubt this I suggest you do what Paul says and read the Bible.

 

Verse 4: “Christ is the end of the law so that there may be righteousness for everyone who believes.” There are religions today whose doctrine is the law, which, as just quoted, became obsolete when Jesus came. They place unnecessary burdens upon the people; that’s why Jesus said to follow Him because His ‘yoke’ was easy.

 

Verse 9: “That if you confess with your mouth, Jesus is Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” Confession, belief, faith = salvation.

 

This is powerful, effective scripture for non-believers and most encouraging for believers.

 

 

 

Inspiration

RECONCILIATION

Romans 5:1-2: “Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access by faith into his grace in which we now stand.” Verse 10 explains how we are reconciled to Him even while we are His enemy; i.e. we were sinners. Jesus died on the cross for sinners who confess their sins and accept Jesus Christ as Savior; and that means all the people of all time.

 

It’s important to understand each person begins life in sin because of Adam and Eve. And the only hope of salvation is accepting God’s free gift of Jesus who gave His life; ‘a ransom for many.’ We are so fortunate to live in a time period when all that is required to be saved is, in faith, believe what God said in John 3:16; He told the world that whoever ‘believed in Jesus would have eternal life and never perish.’

 

Do you want eternal life? Do you want to know how? A simple confession of faith in Jesus and asking Him to be your Savior is all that is required. Today would be an excellent day to seek Jesus.

                 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Inspiration

ARE YOU BLESSED?

 

 

Romans 4:7-8: “Blessed are they whose transgressions are forgiven, whose sins are covered. Blessed is the man whose sin the Lord will never count against him.”

 

How does one become blessed? By faith; by faith in Jesus Christ; by faith in the promise of God who offered His only Son as a sacrifice for anyone willing to accept the truth.

 

How does one develop faith? “Faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word of Christ,” verse 17 (Italics added for emphasis).

 

 

 

 

 

Nick's Ministry

NO EXCEPTIONS

 

Romans 3:23: “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Jesus Christ.” Verse 28 says: “For we maintain that a man is justified by faith apart from observing the law.”

 

All have sinned. All are justified by faith (if one has it). We cannot be justified by upholding the law otherwise man could boast that it was something he did; therefore he wouldn’t have needed faith or Jesus; for it is by the grace of God.

 

We should all thank God we don’t have to earn our way to Him.

 

PRAYER MINISTRY

 

1st Thessalonians 5:16: “Be joyful always, pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you.in all circumstances.”

 

Pray for David G. who wants to go back to the Philippines. Because of his health he will need a clear sign from the Lord. Pat Z. has had surgery on her foot and is now in rehabilitation. My skin condition has cleared up; praise God.

 

Bunny (my wife); Vista Knoll Nursing home patients; District Prayer Ministry; Dennis P.; Betty and family; Angela, cancer; Nick (me); Military; Emma and Alex; Tom H.; Patti L.; Jan; Doug; Jim & Michelle M; Sherry & Ellie O’C.: Dillon; Lynn; Donna; John M; Ross & Connie; Joan T; Pat Z.; Oguazi; Pam; Bruce; David F.; BMF; Tass and family; Johnny Riccio; Jay; Bible class;

 

Rms.11:29: “For God’s gifts and his call are irrevocable.”

 

 

 

 

 

 

Inspiration

NO EXCEPTIONS

 

Romans 3:23: “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Jesus Christ.” Verse 28 says: “For we maintain that a man is justified by faith apart from observing the law.”

 

All have sinned. All are justified by faith (if one has it). We cannot be justified by upholding the law otherwise man could boast that it was something he did; therefore he wouldn’t have needed faith or Jesus; for it is by the grace of God.

 

We should all thank God we don’t have to earn our way to Him.

 

 

 

 

Inspiration

NATURAL LAW

 

Romans 2: 14: The question of the fate of people who have never heard of the law or Jesus is discussed by Paul in verse 14: “Indeed, when Gentiles, who do not have the law, do so by nature things required by the law, they are a law for themselves, even though they do not have the law, since they show that the requirements of the law are written on their hearts, their conscience also bearing witness…”

 

In simple language: the (natural) law is in their heart, they instinctively follow their heart and their conscience is their guide. Verse 16 says God will be the judge to determine the hearts, minds and secrets of man, through Jesus Christ. Psalm 44:21 “would not God have discovered it, since he knows the secrets of the heart?”

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Inspiration

CALL OF THE GENTILE

 

Romans 1:1-4: “…for the gospel of God -  the gospel he promised beforehand through the prophets in the Holy Scriptures regarding his Son, who as to his human nature was a descendant of David, and who through the spirit of holiness was declared with power to be the Son of God by his resurrection from the dead: Jesus Christ our Lord.”

 

Paul declares his authority, given by God, to evangelize the Gentiles (verse 1) to deliver the Good News of salvation. His salutation in verse 7: “To all in Rome who are loved by God and called to be saints.”

 

The Gentiles were called after the Jewish nation, for the most part, rejected God’s Son. Are you one of the Gentiles to be called a saint? Would you like to be? How would you like to receive a personal invitation from God? You can and all you have to do is read John 3:16.

 

 

 

 

Inspitation

HARDENED HEARTS

 

Acts 28:31: “Boldly and without hindrance he preached the kingdom of God and taught about the Lord Jesus Christ.” For two years Paul preached to the Jews in Rome, unfortunately he was preaching to people with hardened hearts. In fact he was preaching to them using scripture from the Old Testament about the Law of Moses and the Prophets; however, some did believe. God did say He would heal them if they would listen.

 

People of little or no faith will never accept the truth of the Bible, but that doesn’t mean we should stop trying. As Paul has said, we ‘should preach in season and out of season’ truths of the Bible. He told them ‘God’s salvation has been sent to the Gentiles.’ God no longer deals with the Jewish nation as He did before the beginning of the Church Age; it is now the time of the Gentiles, it is the Church Age.

 

 

 

 

 

Inspiration

DO NOT BE AFRAID

 

Acts 27:23: “…do not be afraid, Paul. You must stand trial before Caesar; and God has graciously given you the lives of all who sail with you.” So keep up your courage, men…” These are the words of God to Paul when the ship he was on was about to be destroyed. When God has a plan nothing will stand in its way; we should be comforted by His grace and mercy.

 

As Paul told them not to fear for their lives, we too ought to live our lives in the same way. We should remember we are part of His plan and it will be carried out to the letter. So why not believe and have confidence that we will be taken care of by Him? It will be so because He said so.

 

 

Inspiration

SANCTIFIED BY ME

 

Acts 26:18, “…and a place among those who are sanctified by faith in me.” Paul is explaining to King Agrippa what had happened to him on the road to Damascus and what the Lord had told him. Paul’s mission was to preach the Good News to both Jew and Gentile alike.

 

As we read Jesus’ words it is ‘by faith we are saved and not by works.’ If it were by works man could boast, but no man can, no one can brag that he was good or earned his way into God’s grace.  We are all sinners and in need of God’s mercy which He extends o all those who, in faith, believe He is the Son of God and died and was resurrected for our salvation.

 

All these truths can be found in the Bible. I implore those of you who have never read the Bible to try it beginning in the Gospel of John. John 3:5 can change your life.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Inspiration

THE CHARACTER OF PAUL

 

Acts 25: In this chapter we are witnessing the character of Paul as he is getting ready to be put on trial. It would bode well for all of us to emulate his portrayal as a witness for Jesus when we are presented with the opportunity.

 

Paul is innocent of the charges brought against him by the Jews but he maintains an air of dignity. He does not step out of character and simply maintains his innocence realizing, as we should, he is God’s representative. Whenever the opportunity presents itself we should always be ready (in season and out of season, as Paul states) and willing to stand up for our beliefs. Today is a great day to spread the Good News with dignity.

 

 

 

Inspiration

THE WAY

 

Acts 24:14: “However, I admit that I worship the God of our followers as a follower of the Way.” I have always wondered why we don’t call born again believers members of the Way. There are several scriptural references to the Way being an organized group of people. John 14:6: Jesus said He ‘was the way, the truth and the life;’ Acts 9:2: Paul went to Damascus to find Christians who belonged to the Way.

 

Of course I will admit a name does not make anyone a follower of Jesus; faith is required for that. Someone once asked me if we had a leader; someone similar to the Pope for Catholics? I told him we have no human leader but we do have a leader as it is simply stated in John 14:6 when Jesus said: “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” Thus our leader is Jesus Christ; He died for us and was resurrected for us so that we who believe will have everlasting life (John 3:16).

 

 

 

 

 

 

Nick's Ministry

TAKE COURAGE

 

Acts 23:11: “Take courage! As you have testified about me in Jerusalem, so you must also testify in Rome.” The Lord spoke to Paul to encourage him to keep up the good fight, as Paul would say, and press on to deliver the Good News of salvation.

 

There are times in our lives when we need encouragement to continue spreading the Good News of Jesus and the best place to get it is the Bible. We may not receive a pat on the back, so to speak, from others but you can be sure Jesus is watching and keeping track of everything you do for Him. It’s kind of odd to imagine we are doing things for Him when in reality we are doing things for others and ourselves. I look forward to the day when I will meet Him and others whose lives I have touched.   

 

My passion is to help others and to honor God in the process. Whenever I receive a nasty reply from someone, I know the devil is behind it so it rubs off like water on a duck’s back. Discouraging responses will never touch me because I look to Him and Him only. Actually I have a heavy heart for that kind of person because I know where they are going in the end unless they turn to Jesus; an opportunity they have until they take their last breath. Jesus says, “I have overcome the world.” So who needs to worry or be concerned when winds of adversity blow our way. If you are down and need to be lifted turn to Him.

 

PRAYER MINISTRY

 

1st Thessalonians 5:16: “Be joyful always, pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you.in all circumstances.”

 

Please pray the Lord will restore the strength and stability in my legs.

Bunny (my wife); Vista Knoll Nursing home patients; District Prayer Ministry; Dennis P.; Betty and family; Angela, cancer; Nick (me); Military; Emma and Alex; Tom H.; Patti L.; Jan; Doug; Jim & Michelle M; Sherry & Ellie O’C.: Dillon; Lynn; Donna; John M; Ross & Connie; Joan T; Pat Z.; Oguazi; Pam; Bruce; David F.; BMF; Tass and family; Johnny Riccio; Jay; Bible class;

 

Rms.11:29: “For God’s gifts and his call are irrevocable.”

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Inspiration

TAKE COURAGE

 

Acts 23:11: “Take courage! As you have testified about me in Jerusalem, so you must also testify in Rome.” The Lord spoke to Paul to encourage him to keep up the good fight, as Paul would say, and press on to deliver the Good News of salvation.

 

There are times in our lives when we need encouragement to continue spreading the Good News of Jesus and the best place to get it is the Bible. We may not receive a pat on the back, so to speak, from others but you can be sure Jesus is watching and keeping track of everything you do for Him. It’s kind of odd to imagine we are doing things for Him when in reality we are doing things for others and ourselves. I look forward to the day when I will meet Him and others whose lives I have touched.   

 

My passion is to help others and to honor God in the process. Whenever I receive a nasty reply from someone, I know the devil is behind it so it rubs off like water on a duck’s back. Discouraging responses will never touch me because I look to Him and Him only. Actually I have a heavy heart for that kind of person because I know where they are going in the end unless they turn to Jesus; an opportunity they have until they take their last breath. Jesus says, “I have overcome the world.” So who needs to worry or be concerned when winds of adversity blow our way. If you are down and need to be lifted turn to Him.

 

 

 

 

Nick's Ministry

SAUL! SAUL!

 

Acts 22:7:  Jesus said: “Saul! Saul! Why do you persecute me?” On his way to Damascus he heard Jesus’ voice, fell to the ground and became temporarily blind. He was instructed to go into the city and would be told what he was to do.

 

A man named Ananias greeted Paul and told Paul his sight would return and it did. Then he proceeded to tell Paul he was chosen by God to be His witness to the Gentiles (verse 21). That was the beginning of an amazing change and journey of evangelism. Here we see a man whose dedication to the destruction of Gentiles probably had no equal and now he is just as adamant and passionate about delivering the Good News as he was persecuting them.

 

We have an awesome God don’t we? He has a plan for you; be ready and don’t hesitate. Be like the Disciples when Jesus called them; they immediately left whatever it was they were doing and followed Him without question. That is called faith. Is your faith like that; if not would you like it to be?  Try it today

 

. PRAYER MINISTRY

 

1st Thessalonians 5:16: “Be joyful always, pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you.in all circumstances.”

 

Bill H. needs prayer for health. Bill K. Nick’s Bible class.

Bunny (my wife); Vista Knoll Nursing home patients; District Prayer Ministry; Dennis P.; Betty and family; Angela, cancer; Nick (me); Military; Emma and Alex; Tom H.; Patti L.; Jan; Doug; Jim & Michelle M; Sherry & Ellie O’C.: Dillon; Lynn; Donna; John M; Ross & Connie; Joan T; Pat Z.; Oguazi; Pam; Bruce; David F.; BMF; Tass and family; Johnny Riccio; Jay;

 

Rms.11:29: “For God’s gifts and his call are irrevocable.”

 

web site: hiswayisfree.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Inspiration

SAUL! SAUL!

 

Acts 22:7:  Jesus said: “Saul! Saul! Why do you persecute me?” On his way to Damascus he heard Jesus’ voice, fell to the ground and became temporarily blind. He was instructed to go into the city and would be told what he was to do.

 

A man named Ananias greeted Paul and told Paul his sight would return and it did. Then he proceeded to tell Paul he was chosen by God to be His witness to the Gentiles (verse 21). That was the beginning of an amazing change and journey of evangelism. Here we see a man whose dedication to the destruction of Gentiles probably had no equal and now he is just as adamant and passionate about delivering the Good News as he was persecuting them.

 

We have an awesome God don’t we? He has a plan for you; be ready and don’t hesitate. Be like the Disciples when Jesus called them; they immediately left whatever it was they were doing and followed Him without question. That is called faith. Is your faith like that; if not would you like it to be?  Try it today.

 

 

 

 

 

Inspiration

TO GIVE OR RECEIVE?

 

Acts 20:3 ”…It is more blessed to give than to receive.” Jesus said these words, not only verbally, but in action. Did He leave Heaven to help us? Did He minister and heal people while He was here? Did He suffer for you and me while He was here? Did he give up His life for you and me while he was here? Was He resurrected to fulfill prophecy for you and me? Has He made it easy for us to be saved?

 

I know, as you all know, the answers to these questions. What have we given lately? We have such an opportunity while we are here waiting to be with Him, so why not be a giver from now on and not a taker? There are so many different ways to give; many think of money but that is the least of all the more meaningful things we can do.

 

You can think of many ways to give, I would like to suggest the two most important; Love, honor and worship God and love your neighbor as He loves us. If you would do that, especially the second one everything will fall in place. Indeed you will be a giver and no longer a taker. The wonderful result of giving is the precious warm feeling you will receive when you do. Spreading the Good News is giving the best of gifts.

 

 

 

         

 

 

Inspiration

 

WHOSE BAPTISM?

Acts 19:3: So Paul asked: “Then what baptism did you receive?” They (actually they were Disciples) replied it was John’s baptism which was a baptism of repentance and not salvation. There is confusion regarding baptism but the Bible is very clear on this subject. In verse 4 Paul confirms what I just said and when they realized what Paul said they were immediately baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus and received the Holy Spirit as all believers do.

 

When one confesses their sin to God and accepts Jesus into their heart as Lord and Savior they become a born again Christian; this is the only way to salvation; John 3:3 and 14:6. Some religions baptize children when they are born but this has nothing to do with salvation. How can a baby confess sin and ask Jesus to come into their heart?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Inspiration

KEEP ON SPEAKING

 

Acts 18:9: “Do not be afraid, keep on speaking, do not be silent. For I am with you, and no one is going to attack and harm you, because I have many people in this city.” God spoke to Paul in a vision to encourage him to stay in the city and continues proclaiming the Good News.

 

We, too, are protected by God, we need not fear when we speak the Good News as I hope you all do when opportunity arises. Some Christians believe the life they live is sufficient to ‘tell’ others about Jesus. I disagree, I believe we should all live exemplary lives testifying of a changed life, but we also need to use our mouth when opportunity presents itself. Personally, I do look for the slightest opening to proclaim His message; believe me there are many.

 

 

 

 

 

Inspiration

KEEP ON SPEAKING

 

Acts 18:9: “Do not be afraid, keep on speaking, do not be silent. For I am with you, and no one is going to attack and harm you, because I have many people in this city.” God spoke to Paul in a vision to encourage him to stay in the city and continues proclaiming the Good News.

 

We, too, are protected by God, we need not fear when we speak the Good News as I hope you all do when opportunity arises. Some Christians believe the life they live is sufficient to ‘tell’ others about Jesus. I disagree, I believe we should all live exemplary lives testifying of a changed life, but we also need to use our mouth when opportunity presents itself. Personally, I do look for the slightest opening to proclaim His message; believe me there are many.

 

 

 

 

 

Nick's Ministry

 

 

NO DISTINCTION

Acts 15:9-10: “He made no distinction between us (Jews) and them (Gentiles), for he purified their hearts by faith. Now then, why do you try to test God by putting on the necks of the disciples a yoke that neither we nor our fathers have been able to bear?” (Unable to keep the commandments)

 

By the grace of God all people can be saved through faith in Jesus. Salvation in accordance with the Bible does not require any additional burdens that the religious community will place on its members. Jesus left us with 2 commandments: Love Him and love your neighbor as you would yourself, period and end of story.

 

PRAYER MINISTRY

 

1st Thessalonians 5:16: “Be joyful always, pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you.in all circumstances.”

 

Mike and Minnie (Mike’s wife) will be undergoing surgery soon. Mike is a paralytic, wheelchair bound. Let’s lift our prayers up to Father this very instant. Bunny and I are both feeling much, much better, thanks to all the praying.

Bunny (my wife); Vista Knoll Nursing home patients; District Prayer Ministry; Dennis P.; Betty and family; Angela, cancer; Nick (me); Military; Emma and Alex; Tom H.; Patti L.; Jan; Doug; Jim & Michelle M; Sherry & Ellie O’C.: Dillon; Lynn; Donna; John M; Ross & Connie; Joan T; Pat Z.; Oguazi; Pam; Bruce; David F.; BMF; Tass and family; Johnny Riccio; Jay;

 

Rms.11:29: “For God’s gifts and his call are irrevocable.”

 

Web site: www.hiswayisfree.com        E-mail: ndelsesto@cox.net         

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

iNSPIRATION

 

 

NO DISTINCTION

Acts 15:9-10: “He made no distinction between us (Jews) and them (Gentiles), for he purified their hearts by faith. Now then, why do you try to test God by putting on the necks of the disciples a yoke that neither we nor our fathers have been able to bear?” (Unable to keep the commandments)

 

By the grace of God all people can be saved through faith in Jesus. Salvation in accordance with the Bible does not require any additional burdens that the religious community will place on its members. Jesus left us with 2 commandments: Love Him and love your neighbor as you would yourself, period and end of story.

 

 

 

 

 

Inspiration

MADE EASY

 

Acts 14:22, Paul is strengthening and encouraging the brothers to remain true to the faith and said to them: “We must go through many hardships to enter the kingdom of God.” The people didn’t appreciate the Word of God being preached and certain of them began stoning Paul and dragged him outside the city assuming he was dead. After the Disciples gathered around him he got up and went back into the city; the next day they left.

 

Today we are so fortunate not to have to go through what the early Disciples did to create the Church. They met terrible deaths, were treated badly, imprisoned, exiled, etc. By the grace of God we have been spared. However we must remember Christians are still being killed throughout the world; if my memory serves me right I believe there are approximately 150,000 killed each year. This may be hard to believe but it’s true.

 

It is so important for us to strengthen ourselves and become stronger in the faith each day. Satan is very active, trying desperately to prevent people from accepting Jesus and to weaken the believer’s testimony; the closer we get to the return of the Lord the more active he becomes.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Inspiration

DOES THE LAW JUSTIFY?

 

Acts 13:39: “Through him (Jesus) everyone that believes is justified from every thing you could not be justified from by the law of Moses.” While in the Synagogue Paul was asked to speak, he complied and gave them a history lesson based on their own people, reminding them that the law could not justify their sins. He is telling them the only way of salvation is through Jesus. They were interested enough to invite him for a return engagement the following Sabbath.

 

This time Paul realized they were not going to accept his message and they were being abusive towards him. He said to them: “Since you reject it (Jesus) we now turn to the Gentiles. That is what the Lord has commanded us.” see verse 47.

 

Another reminder that faith is necessary for salvation. The law (religion), righteousness and works have never provided salvation and never will according to the Bible. Jesus fulfilled (replaced) the law.

 

   

 

 

 

 

Inspiration

CHAINS FALL OFF

 

Acts 12:7: “Quick get up!” The angel of the Lord told Peter and the chains fell from his wrists. Peter was imprisoned by Herod but the Lord had other plans for him. When God has a plan nothing is going to interfere. Have you ever considered God has a plan for you? Have you thought about the fact God saw you before you were born? It’s true you know and God does have a plan for each person ever born or those yet to be born.

 

I know the plan God has for me. He created me, He sustains me and He redeemed me by providing a Savior who paid my debt in full. He put me here on this earth to prepare me for eternity with Him. I have faith and trust in what His living word tells me. I know Jesus is my Savior; so can you.                           

 

 

 

 

Inspiration

THE REAL BAPTISM

 

Acts 11:16,: ‘Then I remembered what the Lord had said’ “John baptized with water, but you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.” Peter was explaining to the others why and what happened at the house of Cornelius; they weren’t too happy with his going to a Gentile’s house.

 

We are reminded once again of the difference between the baptism by John the Baptist which was for repentance,(water baptism) and the baptism of the Holy Spirit, (born from above) which all new believers receive, when they accept Jesus into their heart as Savior.

 

Verse 26 declares the Disciples were first called Christians at Antioch. Do not overlook the importance of this verse; it bears out the difference between religion and Christianity. Man created religion and God created Christianity; the Way. AMEN! 

 

 

 

 

 

Inspiration

OPEN INVITATION

 

Acts 10:34: Peter said: “I now realize how true it is God does not show favoritism but accepts men from every nation who fear him and do what is right.” The story in this chapter is about Cornelius, a Gentile who was a God fearing man and gave to the poor, liberally. God rewarded him with salvation because he had a good and receptive heart and believed in the true God who knows the hearts of men.

 

Earlier in the story Peter had a vision while praying depicting to him whatever God made clean was good. The meaning of this vision was all about everyone on earth receiving an open invitation from God to accept His free gift of salvation through His only Son Jesus Christ. Folk’s there is a ‘free lunch’ and it is offered to anyone who has a sincere heart and in faith asks Jesus to become their personal Lord and Savior.

 

Would you like to know why God loves you, no matter who you are or what you have done? Would you like to know if His invitation is really offered to you? Read some Scripture today.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Inspiration

SAUL  SAUL

 

Acts 9:4: A voice from Heaven said: “Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?” When Saul (later named Paul) asked who it was, Jesus said: “I am Jesus whom you are persecuting.” It’s interesting and exciting when we see   plans of God unfolding. Paul was on a mission to jail all Gentiles as he had been doing for quite some time, when he encountered this vision on the road to Damascus.

 

Paul’s heart was right with God and Paul was converted to Christianity to become instrumental in the building of the Church. It seems to me Paul did more for Christianity than any of the Disciples, including Peter.

 

The lesson here is when your heart is right with the Lord it becomes easy to ‘see’ and ‘hear’ God speak. By faith we are saved and by reading the word of God we become stronger as our faith deepens relative to the amount of time reading and receiving His truth which can be found only in the Bible.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Inspiration

THE ETHIOPIAN

 

Acts 8:30-31: Philip ran up to the chariot and heard the man reading Isaiah the prophet. “Do you understand what you are reading?” Philip asked. “How can I,” he said, “unless someone explains it to me?” He was reading prophecy and couldn’t understand the meaning; it was about Jesus’ crucifixion.

 

We are so fortunate to have had Jesus come to earth to open the Church Age which we are now in and will be until the rapture. We do not have to interpret prophecy because Jesus fulfilled it. All we need to do is read the Living Word and believe what we read; this requires a desire to know the truth, and faith.

 

Jesus said: “I am the way, the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me…” These words require no interpretation; they are simple, straight forward and truthful. Faith is required for one to believe; which comes from reading the Bible i.e. to read, to listen, to hear God speak to you. The Bible says of itself: ‘it is active and living.’ Read a passage today.

 

 

 

 

Inspiration

THE STONING OF STEPHEN

 

Acts 7:59- 60: “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit. Lord, do not hold this sin against them.”  It is absolutely incredible Stephen was willing to forgive the Sanhedrin as they were stoning him to death.

 

Stephen had just finished presenting a history of the Jewish nation, reminding them of the persecution of the Prophets and the final act of the crucifixion of Jesus. They became furious, out of control and dragged him out of the city and stoned him to death.

 

In spite of this particular act and their history of persecuting the Prophets, God was willing to forgive them; and He is also willing to forgive anyone who accepts Jesus as Savior. Indeed we do have a forgiving and loving God.

 

Have you asked Him to forgive you yet? Have you asked Jesus into your heart as your personal Savior? Do you want to? A simple confession of your sins asking Him for forgiveness, and accepting Jesus, in faith, is all that is necessary. Why not today?

 

 

 

                                                                                                  

 

 

Inspiration

THE POWER OF THE HOLY SPIRIT

 

Acts 6:10: “But they could not stand up against his wisdom or the Spirit by whom he spoke.” The religious people tried desperately to convict Stephen who was addressing them, of blasphemy; even to the point of providing false witnesses against him. They were helpless in their quest to stop him.

 

The point here is when God has a plan nothing gets in His way. God has a plan for each one of us, if you would like to know what God has in His plans for you I would suggest you become a member of His family. Accept Jesus as your Savior and you will become a family member.

 

If you have yet to accept Jesus as your personal Savior you might want to consider reading the Living Word of God, the Bible, with a sincere heart and a desire to know the Way; today.

ndelsesto@cox.net         

 

 

 

 

Inspirartion

THE POWER OF THE HOLY SPIRIT

 

Acts 6:10: “But they could not stand up against his wisdom or the Spirit by whom he spoke.” The religious people tried desperately to convict Stephen who was addressing them, of blasphemy; even to the point of providing false witnesses against him. They were helpless in their quest to stop him.

 

The point here is when God has a plan nothing gets in His way. God has a plan for each one of us, if you would like to know what God has in His plans for you I would suggest you become a member of His family. Accept Jesus as your Savior and you will become a family member.

 

If you have yet to accept Jesus as your personal Savior you might want to consider reading the Living Word of God, the Bible, with a sincere heart and a desire to know the Way; today

 

 

 

Inspiration

NO OTHER NAME

 

Acts 4:12: “Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved.” Peter said it all, didn’t he? As Jesus said: “I am the way, the truth and the life…”

 

The rulers were astonished at the confidence exhibited by Peter and John and wanted them to stop preaching and performing miracles; it was obvious their positions were being threatened. But Peter, boldly, told them they would obey God rather than men.

 

Are we standing strong in faith in God? Do we accept challenges of our convictions? Are we ready as the Disciples were to step up when called upon to do so? I hope so because nothing would please our God and Father more. Do you need help in this area?  Today would be great day to meditate on His Word.

 

 

           

 

 

Inspiration

MOSES SAID

 

Acts 3:22: “For Moses said, ‘the Lord your God will raise up for you a prophet like me from among your own people; you must listen to everything he tells you. Anyone who does not listen to him will be completely cut off from among his people.’”

 

Prophecy fulfilled and a dire warning to the Jewish nation. Whether you are a Jew or Gentile the way to salvation is faith in Jesus. Today listen to the voice of God who is calling you.

 

 

 

 

 

Inspiration

CALL ON HIS NAME

 

Acts 2:21: “And it shall come to pass that whoever calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved.” (NKJV) The message is quite clear, even though it was for the unsaved in the Old Testament days by the Prophet Joel; it surely is suited for anyone, anytime.

 

Peter is addressing the crowd on this day of Pentecost, i.e., the day the Holy Spirit was given to the Disciples as promised by Jesus, and the message is regarding the last days. He is presenting the words of the Prophet Joel; unfortunately his words were falling on deaf ears, except for those whose hearts were receptive. The crowd was accusing them of being drunk, because by the power of the Holy Spirit, they were addressing everyone in their own language.

 

I hope and pray you won’t be so hard hearted as to refuse to believe the opening words of this letter. Today is the day to call upon Him.

 

 

Inspiration

THE CRUCIFIXION

 

Luke 23:43: Jesus answered him: “I tell you the truth, today you will be with me in paradise.” Those are words everyone should be desirous of hearing. This is the promise Jesus made to one of the criminals being crucified with Him because of his faith; Jesus knew his heart.

 

The crucifixion, in my mind, is the most heinous act ever perpetrated by mankind and yet God is willing to forgive. In fact Jesus, while He was nailed to the cross, asked the Father to “forgive them for they know not what they do.” It’s true because they didn’t know who He really was, but there is no excuse for this monstrous act, especially when it involves an innocent man, let alone Jesus.

 

I hope you can appreciate when I say God’s love is a kind of love we won’t know about until we get to Heaven.

From a human point of view it is indeed unbelievable.  Today you know He loves you; enjoy.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Inspiration

THE CRUCIFIXION

 

Luke 23:43: Jesus answered him: “I tell you the truth, today you will be with me in paradise.” Those are words everyone should be desirous of hearing. This is the promise Jesus made to one of the criminals being crucified with Him because of his faith; Jesus knew his heart.

 

The crucifixion, in my mind, is the most heinous act ever perpetrated by mankind and yet God is willing to forgive. In fact Jesus, while He was nailed to the cross, asked the Father to “forgive them for they know not what they do.” It’s true because they didn’t know who He really was, but there is no excuse for this monstrous act, especially when it involves an innocent man, let alone Jesus.

 

I hope you can appreciate when I say God’s love is a kind of love we won’t know about until we get to Heaven.

From a human point of view it is indeed unbelievable.  Today you  know He loves you; enjoy.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Inspiration

 

 

PETER DENIES JESUS

 

Luke 22:34: Jesus answered: “I tell you, Peter, before the rooster crows today, you will deny three times that you know me.”

 

God understands human nature as evidenced by what He told Peter and it’s obvious that he was forgiven even before his denial. There are times in our lives our faith seems to weaken for one reason or another and we shouldn’t feel guilty about it. Satan is always trying to destroy our faith in Him and weaken our testimony. We have trials and tribulation, as a matter of fact Jesus told us exactly that, but he also said to be of good cheer because He has “overcome the world.” He has given us assurances we will never be tempted beyond our ability to overcome whatever Satan throws our way.

 

Remember: ‘Greater is He that is in us, than he who is in the world.’

 

 

 

 

 

 

Inspiration

THE WIDOW’S OFFERING

 

Luke 21:3: “I tell you the truth,” he said, “this poor widow has put in more than all the others. All these people gave their gifts out of their wealth; but she out of her poverty put in all she had to live on.”

 

What a great testimony for a real giver, a person of immense faith. All she had, wow. I don’t even want to ask myself what I would do and I am glad God is merciful and doesn’t require of me to demonstrate my faith as she did.

 

I do believe the moral here is the condition of our heart when we do give, when we help others and when we pray to our Father. Do we give lovingly, do we help others in need with love and do we thank God when we pray? And how often do we fellowship with Him each day?

 

When we read the Bible and all the things Jesus did for us we are able to better understand what a loving heart can accomplish. God gave us His Word; to not only help us understand Him better, but also to inspire us to love Him and others as we would ourselves. Open your Bible today and get inspired.

 

 

 

 

Inspiration

 

 

THE PARABLE OF THE TENANTS

 

Luke 20:9-17: This is a great illustration of the Prophet’s of old and Jesus. In the Old Testament days God spoke to the people through Prophet’s and in the New Testament Jesus speaks. The Jews were (and still are) a stubborn nation refusing to accept God’s wishes. The tenants in the parable repeatedly refused to honor their commitment to the landlord and threw out the servants who were sent to collect some of the fruit, and finally killed his son. In the same way the Jews refused to honor God by not accepting His Son Jesus, and finally killed Him. What did the owner do?

 

The owner of the vineyard gave it to others and God gave the Gentiles (you and me) direct access to Him when the veil in the temple was torn from top to bottom at the precise moment when Jesus gave up His Spirit on the cross.

 

I don’t know how God can simplify salvation more than He has; confess your sins to Him and ask Jesus to come into your heart as your Savior. Is today your day of commitment?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Inspiration

CAME TO SAVE THE LOST

 

Luke 19:9-10: Jesus said: “Today salvation has come to this house, because this man, too, is a son of Abraham. For the Son of Man came to seek and to save what was lost.” He was in the house of Zacchaeus, a chief tax collector.

 

Jesus is referring to His coming to earth to save Israel who was lost and still is. There were many Jews like Zacchaeus who knew the true God because of his faith, therefore he accepted Jesus as the Messiah.

 

When Israel refused to accept Him he opened the way for the entire world to accept Him as Savior. It’s ironic but in a way we have Israel’s rejection of Jesus to thank for the simple way of salvation He has provided for us.

Repent (confess your sins), ask Jesus into your heart as your Savior and you will go to Heaven; no other conditions. He said it, I didn’t. Today can be your day.