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WHAT WE DO NOT SEE

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What We Do Not See

2 Corinthians 4:18  While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen  are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal.

1. THE UNSEEN HELP FOR US ALL.

A. BLESSINGS WE NEED.

1 Corinthians 2:9-12 But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him. But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God. For what man knoweth the things of a man, save the spirit of man which is in him? even so the things of God knoweth no man, but the Spirit of God. Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God.

B. THE PROMISES OF GOD FULFILLED TOTALLY. AN EXAMPLE IS THE PROMISE OF A NEW BODY.

2 Corinthians 4:16-5:2 For which cause we faint not; but though our outward man perish, yet the inward man is renewed day by day. For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory; While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal. For we know that if our earthly house of this tabernacle were dissolved, we have a building of God, an house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens. For in this we groan, earnestly desiring to be clothed upon with our house which is from heaven:

C. THE MINISTRY OF ANGELS. UNSEEN, BUT PRESENT DAILY.
  • HEALING. STIRRED THE WATERS AT BETHSAIDA.  John 5:4 For an angel went down at a certain season into the pool, and troubled the water: whosoever then first after the troubling of the water stepped in was made whole of whatsoever disease he had.
  • MINISTRY TO ENCOURAGE AND LIFT. TEMPTATION OF JESUS. Matthew 4:11 Then the devil leaveth him, and, behold, angels came and ministered unto him.
  • PROVIDE FOR OUR NEEDS. ELIJAH—FOOD. I Kings 19:5 And as he lay and slept under a juniper tree, behold, then an angel touched him, and said unto him, Arise and eat.
  • BRING JUDGMENT—SODOM. Genesis 19:13 For we will destroy this place, because the cry of them is waxen great before the face of the LORD; and the LORD hath sent us to destroy it.
  • BRING PHYSICAL DELIVERANCE—BRINGING LOT & GIRLS OUT OF SODOM. Genesis 19:16 And while he lingered, the men laid hold upon his hand, and upon the hand of his wife, and upon the hand of his two daughters; the LORD being merciful unto him: and they brought him forth, and set him without the city.
  • KEEPING MAN FROM A WORSE FATE. (ACCIDENTS, ETC. ?) KEPT ADAM FROM GARDEN. Genesis 3:24 So he drove out the man; and he placed at the east of the garden of Eden Cherubims, and a flaming sword which turned every way, to keep the way of the tree of life.
  • CARRIED MESSAGES FROM GOD. DANIEL. Daniel 8:15-17 And it came to pass, when I, even I Daniel, had seen the vision, and sought for the meaning, then, behold, there stood before me as the appearance of a man. And I heard a man’s voice between the banks of Ulai, which called, and said, Gabriel, make this man to understand the vision. So he came near where I stood: and when he came, I was afraid, and fell upon my face: but he said unto me, Understand, O son of man: for at the time of the end shall be the vision.
  • CARRY OUT DECREES OF JUDGMENT. REVELATION. Revelation 15:6 And the seven angels came out of the temple, having the seven plagues, clothed in pure and white linen, and having their breasts girded with golden girdles.
  • TO BRING SOULS TO THEIR PLACE OF JUDGMENT. Luke 16:22 And it came to pass, that the beggar died, and was carried by the angels into Abraham’s bosom: the rich man also died, and was buried; —AND THIS IS FUTURE, TOO.— Matthew 24:31 And he shall send his angels with a great sound of a trumpet, and they shall gather together his elect from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other.

 

2. WE MUST HAVE FAITH IN GOD TO ACCEPT THE UNSEEN.

A. WE HAVE NOT SEEN JESUS. He was before our time.

John 20:29 Jesus saith unto him, Thomas, because thou hast seen Me, thou hast believed: blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed.

B. WE HAVE NOT SEEN THE FATHER.

Colossians 1:15 Who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature:
John 1:18 No man hath seen God at any time; the only begotten Son, which is in the bosom of the Father, He hath declared Him.

C. WE HAVE NOT SEEN GOD’S WRATH OR THE RAPTURE, BUT WE KNOW IT WILL COME.

Hebrews 11:7 By faith Noah, being warned of God of things not seen as yet, moved with fear, prepared an ark to the saving of his house; by the which he condemned the world, and became heir of the righteousness which is by faith.

3. WE MUST DEPEND UPON HIS WORD TO KNOW ABOUT THE UNSEEN.

A. THAT IS THE BASIS FOR OUR FAITH.

Hebrews 11:1 Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.

 

“What We Do Not See”
A Bible Study with Dr. Ed J. MacWilliams
031316

NOT HEARING GOD’S VOICE

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NOT HEARING GOD’S VOICE

 

WE HAVE STUDIED THIS BEFORE, BUT WHEN PEOPLE ASK, “HOW CAN I HEAR GOD ?”, IT IS A GOOD REMINDER TO REVIEW THE BIBLICAL PRINCIPLES.

GOD CONSIDERS OUR HEARING HIM TO BE A BIG DEAL.  HE MENTIONS IT OVER AND OVER.

Revelation 3:22  He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.

 

1. GET YOUR PRIORITIES RIGHT.

* When you have a lot of screens open on your computer, it tests the capabilities of the machine. When it reaches it’s limit, it cannot hear the commands given by the keyboard or the mouse. It is frozen, cold.

A. TAKE TIME TO MEDITATE. IT WILL BLESS YOU.

Joshua 1:8 This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success.; that thy profiting may appear to all.

B. DON’T ALLOW YOUR LIFE TO BE FILLED WITH UNIMPORTANT THINGS.

Paul sorted things out, and labeled all things that do not profit the Lord.

Philippians 3:8 Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung, that I may win Christ,

C. TAKING ON MORE THAN YOU GOD WANTS YOU TO HAVE.

*GOD WILL NOT PLACE MORE ON YOU THAN YOU ARE ABLE.

1 Corinthians 10:13 There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.

 

2. SQUASH THE DISTRACTIONS.

A. ALLOWING TOO MANY VOICES TO BE HEARD AT ONCE. MUST STOP ALLOWING IT !

John 10:27 My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me.

B. OVERWHELMED BY YOUR OWN VOICE AND GOALS.

ESPECIALLY CONCERNING IS THAT FOR THE CHRISTIAN, THIS IS ALLOWING THE OLD NATURE TO RULE. REJECTED FIRST ANSWER, KEPT ON PLEADING WITH GOD. WAS DISTRACTED BY THE MEN, THE MONEY, AND HIS OWN HEART’S DESIRE. DIDN’T READ GOD’S TRUE WILL CORRECTLY.

BAALIM.

Numbers 22:12, 19-22. And God said unto Balaam, Thou shalt not go with them; thou shalt not curse the people: for they are blessed.  … Now therefore, I pray you, tarry ye also here this night, that I may know what the LORD will say unto me more. And God came unto Balaam at night, and said unto him, If the men come to call thee, rise up, and go with them; but yet the word which I shall say unto thee, that shalt thou do. And Balaam rose up in the morning, and saddled his ass, and went with the princes of Moab. And God’s anger was kindled because he went: and the angel of the LORD stood in the way for an adversary against him. Now he was riding upon his ass, and his two servants were with him.

—Simply put, it means that you really don’t want to hear.  You want to do what YOU want to do, and that is what you think you hear from God. The results of this are foretold.

Luke 6:47-49 Whosoever cometh to Me, and heareth My sayings, and doeth them, I will shew you to whom he is like: But he that heareth, and doeth not, is like a man that without a foundation built an house upon the earth; against which the stream did beat vehemently, and immediately it fell; and the ruin of that house was great.

C. THERE ARE ALWAYS THINGS TO DO.

BUT, DO YOU FULFILL WHAT GOD WANTS FIRST ? DOES GOD GET TOP PRIORITY ALL THE TIME ? IT MAY BE THAT ONE TIME WHEN HE ISN’T MOST IMPORTANT THAT YOU NEED TO HEAR HIM THE MOST.

2 Timothy 4:11 Only Luke is with me. Take Mark, and bring him with thee: for he is profitable to me for the ministry.

APOLLOS—Will come at a convenient time. He had other things to do.

1 Corinthians 16:12 As touching our brother Apollos, I greatly desired him to come unto you with the brethren: but his will was not at all to come at this time; but he will come when he shall have convenient time.

D. NOT ENOUGH DEDICATION TO STUDY THE WORD.

 

3. MAKE SURE YOU HAVE THE RIGHT CONDITIONS.

A. SOME CANNOT RECEIVE ANSWERS.

Matthew 13:9-12 Who hath ears to hear, let him hear. And the disciples came, and said unto Him, Why speakest Thou unto them in parables? He answered and said unto them, Because it is given unto you to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it is not given. For whosoever hath, to him shall be given, and he shall have more abundance: but whosoever hath not, from him shall be taken away even that he hath.

B. YOU HAVE TO HAVE SPIRITUAL ROOTS TO HEAR.

Matthew 13:19-21 When any one heareth the word of the kingdom, and understandeth it not, then cometh the wicked one, and catcheth away that which was sown in his heart. This is he which received seed by the way side. But he that received the seed into stony places, the same is he that heareth the word, and anon with joy receiveth it; Yet hath he not root in himself, but dureth for a while: for when tribulation or persecution ariseth because of the word, by and by he is offended.

C. MUST RECEIVE THE SIMPLE SOUNDS FIRST—LIKE GETTING SAVED.

Revelation 22:17 And the Spirit and the bride say, Come. And let him that heareth say, Come. And let him that is athirst come. And whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely.

“Not Hearing God’s Voice”
A Bible Study with Dr. Ed J. MacWilliams
030916

WALKING WITH THE LORD

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WALKING WITH THE LORD

 

SOME SAY THAT IT CAN’T BE DONE TODAY.   THEY SAY THAT IN THE PAST,  THE DISCIPLES WALKED WITH JESUS.  THEY SAY THAT IN THE PAST, WHEN JESUS WAS ON EARTH, PEOPLE COULD HAVE THAT PRIVILEGE, BUT NOT TODAY.   JESUS HAS TO BE PHYSICALLY PRESENT IN ORDER TO WALK WITH HIM… NOT SO !  LOOK AT THIS–

Genesis 3:8  And they heard the voice of the LORD God walking in the garden in the cool of the day: and Adam and his wife hid themselves from the presence of the LORD God amongst the trees of the garden.

Genesis 5:22  And Enoch walked with God after he begat Methuselah three hundred years, and begat sons and daughters:

Genesis 5:24  And Enoch walked with God: and he was not; for God took him.

Genesis 6:9  These are the generations of Noah: Noah was a just man and perfect in his generations, and Noah walked with God.

COULD HE BE SEEN ?  WAS HIS PRESENCE ALWAYS PHYSICAL ?   IF NOT, CAN THIS SAME PRIVILEGE BE GRANTED TO PEOPLE TODAY ?

 

1. WALKING WITH HIM IS TO HAVE FELLOWSHIP WITH HIM.  

1 John 1:6  If we say that we have fellowship with Him, and walk in darkness, we lie, and do not the truth:

1 John 1:7  But if we walk in the light, as He is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanseth us from all sin.

WHAT IS FELLOWSHIP ?  IT MEANS ONE THING WITH ONE PERSON AND ANOTHER TO SOMEONE ELSE.   GOD’S DEFINITION IS THE ONE THAT COUNTS.

FELLOWSHIP IS TURNING OUR ATTENTION ON GOD, NOT EVERYONE ELSE.  (Rejecting the distracting appeal of idolatry).

2 Corinthians 6:16  And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be My people.

 

FELLOWSHIP CANNOT BE OBTAINED IF WE DWELL IN UNBELIEF.  IF WE ARE TO WALK WITH JESUS, WE MUST FOLLOW HIS WORD.

John 5:8  Jesus saith unto him, Rise, take up thy bed, and walk. 

John 5:11  He answered them, He that made me whole, the same said unto me, Take up thy bed, and walk. 

John 5:12  Then asked they him, What man is that which said unto thee, Take up thy bed, and walk?

 

FELLOWSHIP WITH GOD MEANS NO TIME FOR EVERYTHING.  YOU WILL HAVE TO DROP FELLOWSHIP WITH OTHER THINGS IN ORDER TO MAKE THE ROOM.     YOU CANNOT BE ALL THINGS TO ALL PEOPLE.   YOU CANNOT FULFILL ALL THAT YOU WANT TO DO.   TO HAVE FELLOWSHIP WITH JESUS, YOU MUST DENY YOURSELF.

Mark 8:34  And when He had called the people unto Him with His disciples also, He said unto them, Whosoever will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.

 

IF A PERSON FAILS TO FOLLOW, THEY NO LONGER HAVE FELLOWSHIP.

Matthew 19:21  Jesus said unto him, If thou wilt be perfect, go and sell that thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come and follow Me.

WAS PETER HAVING FELLOWSHIP WITH JESUS WHEN HE FOLLOWED FROM A DISTANCE ?  NO !

Matthew 26:58  But Peter followed Him afar off unto the high priest’s palace, and went in, and sat with the servants, to see the end.

 

 

2. BY PUTTING YOUR ATTENTION ON JESUS, YOU WILL LEARN THINGS THAT YOU WOULD MISS BY SIMPLY READING.

YOU SEE THE REAL STANDARDS.  IT IS DIFFICULT TO REALLY TELL MUCH ABOUT A PERSON BY HEARING THEM IN A RELIGIOUS CONTEXT.  YOU WILL BE ABLE TO KNOW THEIR STANDARDS WHEN IT ISN’T AROUND CHURCH.  YOU SEE WHAT THE PERSON’S DESIRES REALLY ARE.

HOW CAN WE APPLY JESUS TRUE DESIRES TO OUR LIVES ?

  • SEEK & SAVE THE LOST.  Mt 18:11  “For the Son of man is come to save that which was lost.”
  • JERUSALEM.  YOU WILL GET CONCERNED ABOUT ISRAEL.  Luke 13:34 “O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, which killest the prophets, and stonest them that are sent unto thee; how often would I have gathered thy children together, as a hen doth gather her brood under her wings, and ye would not!”
  • HIS HURT OVER UNBELIEF.  John 11:35  “Jesus wept.”  (You don’t see such emotions while doing your own thing).

HIS FRUSTRATIONS OVER…

  • PEOPLE WHO HAVEN’T COME TO UNDERSTAND THE BASICS ABOUT GOD.  “HOW LONG HAVE I BEEN WITH YOU ?”  John 14:7-11  “Believe Me that I am in the Father, and the Father in Me: or else believe Me for the very works’ sake.”
  • PEOPLE WHO OUGHT TO HAVE FAITH, WHO DON’T EXERCISE IT.  Luke 8:25  “And He said unto them, Where is your faith? And they being afraid wondered, saying one to another, What manner of man is this! for He commandeth even the winds and water, and they obey Him.”
  • PEOPLE WHO SHOULD  BE TRUSTING GOD, BUT TRY TO REASON THINGS OUT LOGICALLY AMONG THEMSELVES.  Mark 8:16  “And they reasoned among themselves, saying, It is because we have no bread.”

 

3. YOU GET TO SEE WHAT GOD DOES.

A child often has no idea what the parent does at work unless they go there and walk with him.  The same is true to the Christian life.

  • WALKING WITH JESUS IS ESSENTIAL TO RECOGNIZING AND DEFEATING DEMONIC ACTIVITY.

DEMONS OBEY.  Luke 4:36  “And they were all amazed, and spake among themselves, saying, What a word is this! for with authority and power He commandeth the unclean spirits, and they come out.”

  • WALKING WITH JESUS IS IMPORTANT TO KNOW WHERE AND HOW TO PLACE OUR ACTIONS OF LOVE.

HIS COMPASSION.

  • THE HUNGRY CROWD.  Matthew 15:32  “Then Jesus called His disciples unto Him, and said, I have compassion on the multitude, because they continue with Me now three days, and have nothing to eat: and I will not send them away fasting, lest they faint in the way.”
  • THE  CHILDREN THAT OTHERS REJECTED.  Mark 10:14  “But when Jesus saw it, He was much displeased, and said unto them, Suffer the little children to come unto Me, and forbid them not: for of such is the kingdom of God.”

 

4. YOU GET TO SEE HIS ASSOCIATIONS.

THE PEOPLE WHO WALK WITH HIM SEE MORE. UNLESS YOU ARE WALKING WITH HIM, YOU MIGHT NOT SEE THEM.  **SOME SAY, “I’M THE ONLY ONE SERVING THE LORD.”

Acts 9:26  And when Saul was come to Jerusalem, he assayed to join himself to the disciples: but they were all afraid of him, and believed not that he was a disciple.

YOU SEE WHO ISN’T WALKING WITH HIM, BUT PUT THEIR OWN DESIRES AND WAYS AHEAD OF HIS. THEY SIMPLY WON’T BE THERE.

1 John 2:19  They went out from us, but they were not of us; for if they had been of us, they would no doubt  have continued with us: but they went out, that they might be made manifest that they were not all of us.

 

“Walking With The Lord”
A Bible Study with Dr. Ed J. MacWilliams
022816

 

PURSUING THE PRESENCE OF GOD

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“THE PASSIONATE PURSUIT OF GOD’S PRESENCE” — In the mission statement of a church.

WHY ? — IF WE LOVE HIM, WE WANT MORE OF HIM.  HOW MANY SEEK HIM MORE ?

HOW ?  Prayer.  Study.  Walking.  Seeking.  Service.

 GOD INITIATED THE PROCESS.

1 John 4:19  We love Him, because He first loved us.

Luke 19:10  For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost.

 

1. WHY PURSUE AFTER GOD ?

A. IT IS MORE THAN JUST KNOWING HIM.

Zechariah 8:22 Yea, many people and strong nations shall come to seek the LORD of hosts in Jerusalem, and to pray before the LORD.

B. IT TAKES PREPARATION.

ARE YOU PREPARED TO GIVE MORE OF YOURSELF TO HIM ? SEEKING GOD IS NOT JUST TO SATISFY YOUR CURISITY. IT COMES WITH GREATER SENSE OF APPRECIATION AND RESPONSIBILITY.

2. PURSUING GOD HAS A PURPOSE.

A. IT IS TO HAVE A GREATER KNOWLEDGE OF WHAT HE WANTS THROUGH KNOWING HIM AND HIS WAYS.

Ezra 8:21 Then I proclaimed a fast there, at the river of Ahava, that we might afflict ourselves before our God, to seek of Him a right way for us, and for our little ones, and for all our substance.

B. IT IS TO RESTORE THE BLESSINGS OF THE PAST.

2 Chronicles 7:14 If My people, which are called by My name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.

C. IT IS TO RESTORE A RELATIONSHIP WITH THE LORD THAT HAS BECOME BROKEN DUE TO SIN.

Hosea 5:15 (GOD SAID) I will go and return to My place, till they acknowledge their offence, and seek My face: in their affliction they will seek Me early.

3. DOES PURSUING GOD MAKE ANY DIFFERENCE ?

A. ONE MAN’S PRAYERS CAN CHANGE MANY OTHER PEOPLE. HE CAN MAKE THEIR SPIRITUAL DESIRES COME ALIVE.

HEZKIAH

 2 Chronicles 30:19 That prepareth his heart to seek God, the LORD God of his fathers, though he be not cleansed according to the purification of the sanctuary.

B. WHEN WE FAIL TO PREPARE OUR HEARTS AFTER GOD BURDENS US WITH THE DESIRE TO SEEK HIM, WE COULD END UP DOING EVIL.

REHOBOAM.

2 Chronicles 12:14 And he did evil, because he prepared not his heart to seek the LORD.

C. GOD DOES NOT WANT PEOPLE TO SEEK HIM AS A HOBBY. HE REWARDS ONLY THOSE WHO SEEK HIM WITH ALL THE HEART.

Jeremiah 29:13 And ye shall seek Me, and find Me, when ye shall search for Me with all your heart.

4. HOW DID PEOPLE PURSUE GOD IN THE PAST ?

A. PRAYER.

Daniel 9:3 And I set my face unto the Lord God, to seek by prayer and supplications, with fasting, and sackcloth, and ashes:

B. STUDY HIS WORDS.

C. SEEKING HIM IN EVERY ACTIVITY OF LIFE.

Proverbs 3:6 In all thy ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct thy paths.

D. IN PRAISE.

Psalms 22:3 But Thou art holy, O Thou that inhabitest the praises of Israel.

SOME PEOPLE SEEK AFTER GOD FOR BLESSINGS. THEY FAIL TO SEEK THE PERSON OF THE LORD INSTEAD.  Like a woman seeking a rich man to marry. It isn’t the person she loves, it is his money.

Luke 12:30 For all these things do the nations of the world seek after: and your Father knoweth that ye have need of these things.

SOMETIMES SEEKING GOD IS INCONVENIENT. MANY TIMES GOD MAKES IT THAT WAY SO THAT YOU MUST PROVE YOUR SERIOUSNESS TO HIM.

John 6:24 When the people therefore saw that Jesus was not there, neither His disciples, they also took shipping, and came to Capernaum, seeking for Jesus.

 

“Pursuing The Presence Of God”
A Bible Study with Dr. Ed J. MacWilliams
112915

MAKE YOUR ENVIRONMENT PLEASANT

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PART 1

1. FILL YOU HOME WITH PLEASANT WORDS.

FOCUS ON GOD’S PLAN FOR EACH MEMBER OF THE FAMILY. ENCOURAGE, CORRECT, BUT ALWAYS KEEP A FOCUS ON THE GOAL.

Proverbs 16:24 Pleasant words are as an honeycomb, sweet to the soul, and health to the bones.

–AVOID STRIFE. SOME PEOPLE PLAN ON IT, SCHEDULE IT, AND EXPECT IT. THIS SHOULD NOT BE.

Proverbs 17:1 Better is a dry morsel, and quietness therewith, than an house full of sacrifices with strife.

–LEARNING GOD’S WORD, AND KEEPING IT IN YOUR HEART HELPS YOU TO MAKE DECISIONS AND WILL GUIDE YOUR PATH CORRECTLY.

Proverbs 22:17-18 Bow down thine ear, and hear the words of the wise, and apply thine heart unto my knowledge. For it is a pleasant thing if thou keep them within thee; they shall withal be fitted in thy lips.

–IF YOU FILL YOUR KIDS ROOMS WITH UNPLEASANT THINGS–DON’T EXPECT THEM TO TURN OUT PLEASANTLY. EXPECT TO FACE TROUBLES. BAD POSTERS AND MUSIC WHICH ADVOCATES REBELLION, SATANISM, MURDER, DRUGS, AND VIOLENCE IS PLANTING SEEDS OF WHAT WILL GROW LATER IN.

2. SING PRAISES TO GOD IN YOUR HOME.

IF YOU DON’T KNOW A LOT OF PRAISE SONGS, READ PSALMS, MAKE UP YOUR OWN, OR SING ALONG WITH A RECORDING OF OTHERS WHO ARE NOT JUST ENTERTAINERS, BUT ARE TRUE WORSHIPERS.

Psalms 147:1 Praise ye the LORD: for it is good to sing praises unto our God; for it is pleasant; and praise is comely.

Ephesians 5:19 Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord;

3. KEEP THE FOCUS THAT GOD WANTS EACH PERSON IN THE FAMILY TO KNOW AND SERVE HIM. YOU CAN’T BE AN EFFECTIVE SERVANT WHEN THERE IS STRIFE.

Psalms 133:1 « A Song of degrees of David. » Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!

4. DON’T ATTEMPT TO MAKE IT PLEASANT WITHOUT THE LORD. TRYING TO MAKE IT PLEASANT WITHOUT THE LORD WILL NOT SATISFY.

Isaiah 17:10-11 Because thou hast forgotten the God of thy salvation, and hast not been mindful of the rock of thy strength, therefore shalt thou plant pleasant plants, and shalt set it with strange slips: In the day shalt thou make thy plant to grow, and in the morning shalt thou make thy seed to flourish: but the harvest shall be a heap in the day of grief and of desperate sorrow.

5. SOMETIMES YOU NEED TO SUBJECT YOURSELF TO DIFFICULTIES SO THAT YOU CAN GET CLOSER TO GOD AND NOT DEPEND ON THE PLEASANT THINGS TO MAKE YOU FEEL GOOD. LET GOD MAKE YOU FEEL GOOD.

Daniel 10:3 I ate no pleasant bread, neither came flesh nor wine in my mouth, neither did I anoint myself at all, till three whole weeks were fulfilled.

******************************

PART 2

1. GOD MADE THINGS GOOD. WE CAN EITHER FOLLOW HIS GUIDANCE IN MAINTAINING THEM, OR WE CAN DESTROY WHAT HE WANTED US TO HAVE. .

A. SIN BROUGHT THE FIRST UNCOMFORTABLE ENVIRONMENT FOR MEN.

Genesis 3:19 In the sweat of thy face shalt thou eat bread, till thou return unto the ground; for out of it wast thou taken: for dust thou art, and unto dust shalt thou return.

Genesis 3:24 So he drove out the man; and he placed at the east of the garden of Eden Cherubims, and a flaming sword which turned every way, to keep the way of the tree of life.

THE PLEASANT AND HAPPY ENVIRONMENT TURNED INTO DISASTER BECAUSE OF THEIR OWN DECISIONS.

**The attitude of people often is affected by their environment. If their homes are noisy and contentious, and filled with music that is combative, they will be aggressive. ***Even plants are affected by the environment. Is it hollering, screaming, or crying ? Or, is it filled with praise, thanksgiving, and joy ? A quiet home can go either way. It can invite trouble, or it can be peaceful.

B. WHERE GOD IS ABSENT, THE PLACE BECOMES A WILDERNESS.

Jeremiah 12:10 Many pastors have destroyed my vineyard, they have trodden my portion under foot, they have made my pleasant portion a desolate wilderness.

C. WHERE GOD IS NOT THE CENTER OF THE HOME, THE WORDS OF THE HOUSE ARE NOT PEACEABLE AND KIND.

EVEN PEOPLE WHO DON’T USE GOD’S NAME IN VAIN, OR SWEAR SOMETIMES USE THEIR WORDS TO CONDEMN, CUT DOWN, AND CRITICIZE.

Proverbs 15:26 The thoughts of the wicked are an abomination to the LORD: but the words of the pure are pleasant words.

Proverbs 16:24 Pleasant words are as an honeycomb, sweet to the soul, and health to the bones.

D. THE HOME SHOULD BE FILLED WITH PLEASANT THINGS.

*Not monsters, rock star posters, etc.

Joel 3:5 Because ye have taken my silver and my gold, and have carried into your temples my goodly pleasant things:

2. PLEASANTNESS CAN BE MANY THINGS.

A. PLEASANTNESS IT CAN BE A FIGMENT OF IMAGINATION.

IT CAN BE RE-DEFINED, AND PERVERTED BY PEOPLE WHO WANT TO HAVE PLEASANTNESS SO MUCH, THEY WILL ACCEPT ALMOST ANYTHING.

Isaiah 2:16 And upon all the ships of Tarshish, and upon all pleasant pictures.

B. IT CAN BE A TIME OF TRIAL OR TESTING; BUT WITH THE LORD, IT CAN BE PLEASANT.

Daniel 10:3 I ate no pleasant bread, neither came flesh nor wine in my mouth, neither did I anoint myself at all, till three whole weeks were fulfilled.

C. IT CAN BE THE FRUIT OF PERSEVERING PRAYER.

James 3:17 But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy.

3. A PLEASANT PLACE CANNOT BE FULLY REALIZED WITHOUT THE LORD JESUS.

A. WE NEED PEACEABLY LIFE INWARDLY.

THAT COMES FROM PERSONAL SALVATION THROUGH FAITH.

B. WE NEED TO BE PEACEMAKERS.

HELP PEOPLE GET RIGHT WITH GOD, AND THEY WILL BE RIGHT WITH YOU. NO BETTER PLACE TO INITIATE THIS PRINCIPLE THAN IN THE HOME.

Matthew 5:9 Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God.

C. WE NEED THE PEACEABLE WALK THAT COMES FROM RESPONDING TO PROBLEMS AFTER WE BRING THEM TO THE LORD.

1 Peter 5:7 Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.

 

”Making Your Environment Pleasant”
A Bible Study with Dr. Ed J. MacWilliams
110415

HOW CAN YOU HEAR GOD

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Micah 6:1-2  Hear ye now what the LORD saith; Arise, contend thou before the mountains, and let the hills hear Thy voice.  Hear ye, O mountains, the LORD’S controversy, and ye strong foundations of the earth: for the LORD hath a controversy with His people, and He will plead with Israel.

 

What a blessing to know that God hears us.  BUT, if we don’t work at our relationship with God above everything else, we will not have that closeness.  The world looks at the true Christian in amazement, and says, “look at them under stress—they are still smiling, still serving God !”

SO—WHY do most Christians not have that when at one time many of them did ?  It is called incrementalism.  Many small compromises, till the Christian is miserable, without being conscious of why it happened.  The devil uses the same in the loss of freedoms in this country.  Most don’t even notice what freedoms are gone today—but they know that it isn’t the same as it was years ago.

Incrementalism gives people a false idea that seems reasonable to them.  Then, it builds upon that false idea, and before long, they are powerless to resist anything that is said against evil.

 

1. THROW OUT THE IDEA THAT YOU CAN BE JUST AS CLOSE TO GOD IN ONE PLACE AND TIME AS ANOTHER.

A. EVEN JESUS’ MOTHER THOUGHT INCORRECTLY.

Luke 8:19 Then came to Him His mother and His brethren, and could not come at Him for the press.

B. SOMETIMES WE LOOK FOR GOD TO SPEAK THROUGH THE WRONG THINGS.

1 Kings 19:11 And he said, Go forth, and stand upon the mount before the LORD. And, behold, the LORD passed by, and a great and strong wind rent the mountains, and brake in pieces the rocks before the LORD; but the LORD was not in the wind: and after the wind an earthquake; but the LORD was not in the earthquake:

2. THROW AWAY THE IDEA THAT GOD ACCEPTS OUR PRAYERS NO MATTER WHAT CONDITION WE ARE IN.

A. CAN’T FIND GOD BECAUSE SIN IS IN THE WAY.

Psalms 66:18 If I regard iniquity in my heart, the Lord will not hear me:

B. DON’T LOSE SIGHT OF GOD’S TRACK RECORD.

He uses people and speaks through them. Sometimes we nee to listen. Other times, we need to dismiss what they say. But, we need to be close enough to the Lord to hear God’s discernment on the matter,

Isaiah 63:11 Then he remembered the days of old, Moses, and his people, saying, Where is he that brought them up out of the sea with the shepherd of his flock? where is he that put his holy Spirit within him ?

C. ACCEPT THE TRUTH THAT THERE ARE SOME THINGS WE DON’T KNOW.  JUST TRUST GOD, AND EVENTUALLY, YOU WILL KNOW WHAT NEEDS TO BE KNOWN.

Job 30:20 I cry unto thee, and thou dost not hear me: I stand up, and thou regardest me not.

D. DON’T THINK THAT WHEN JUDGMENT COMES THAT GOD WILL ALWAYS KEEP ON SPEAKING.

Micah 3:4 Then shall they cry unto the LORD, but he will not hear them: he will even hide his face from them at that time, as they have behaved themselves ill in their doings.

E. BE AWARE THAT GOD GIVES A LIMITED TIME TO RESPOND TO HIS VOICE.

We know that America is going to be judged soon. If we know that, and know the time is short, we should be doing all we can and listening to God’s Word faithfully.

Isaiah 65:12 Therefore will I number you to the sword, and ye shall all bow down to the slaughter: because when I called, ye did not answer; when I spake, ye did not hear; but did evil before mine eyes, and did choose that wherein I delighted not.

FELLOWSHIP IS A TWO WAY STREET. BOTH PARTIES COMMUNICATE. GOD CAN SPEAK WITHOUT HAVING FELLOWSHIP WITH YOU.

–MOST PEOPLE WANT THE FELLOWSHIP SO THEY CAN TALK TO GOD. GOD GAVE YOU ONE MOUTH AND TWO EARS.  TWICE AS MANY THINGS FOR HEARING BECAUSE HEARING WAS MORE IMPORTANT THAN BEING HEARD.

3. GOD WILL NOT HEAR CERTAIN THINGS.

A. PRAYERS FOR THOSE WHO HAVE REMOVED THEMSELVES FROM HOPE.

Jeremiah was instructed not to pray for Israel any more.

Jeremiah 14:11 Then said the LORD unto me, Pray not for this people for their good.

—The prayers of sinners after He has already closed the door of opportunity.

Genesis 7:1 And the LORD said unto Noah, Come thou and all thy house into the ark; for thee have I seen righteous before me in this generation.

B. THAT GOD WILL ACCEPT A PLEA BARGAIN FOR OUR JUDGMENT.

Moses praying that he could see the promised land.

Deuteronomy 3:26 But the LORD was wroth with me for your sakes, and would not hear me: and the LORD said unto me, Let it suffice thee; speak no more unto me of this matter.

C. WHEN WE ASK FOR THINGS NOT ACCORDING TO GOD’S WILL.

Asking for things just to satisfy self is not proper for a Christian. James 4:3 Ye ask, and receive not, because ye ask amiss, that ye may consume it upon your lusts.

D. OUR RESPONSE TO GOD’S VOICE OUGHT TO BE A MORE DEDICATED LIFE FOR THE LORD.

But, God in His great mercy has extended an invitation to all.

Revelation 22:17 And the Spirit and the bride say, Come. And let him that heareth say, Come. And let him that is athirst come. And whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely.

CAN YOU HEAR THAT ? SOMEONE MAY HAVE TOLD YOU BEFORE, AND YOU REFUSED TO HEAR IT.  IF YOU DO NOW, NOW IS THE TIME TO MAKE YOUR DECISION. TOMORROW YOU MAY NOT HEAR IT ONCE MORE, AND BE LIKE MILLIONS OF PEOPLE WHO TELL THOSE WHO CARE ABOUT THEM, “I JUST DON’T WANT TO HEAR IT.”

JUST HEARING FROM GOD DOES NOT MEAN THAT YOU ARE OK. YOU HEARD FROM GOD BEFORE YOU GOT SAVED. BAALAM HEARD FROM GOD. THE RICH MAN WANTING TO BUILD BIGGER BARNS HEARD FROM GOD. EVIL KINGS HEAR FROM GOD.

FELLOWSHIP ONLY COMES BY BEING IN A RIGHT RELATIONSHIP WITH THE LORD JESUS.

 

”How Can You Hear God ?”
A Bible Study with Dr. Ed J. MacWilliams
101115

GOD’S LITTLE SECRETS

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THERE IS A WIDELY HELD BELIEF THAT A PERSON CANNOT KNOW IF THEY ARE SAVED UNTIL THEY DIE.   THIS IS NOT SO.   IT IS NO SECRET WHEN A PERSON GETS SAVED.   YOU CAN’T BE CLOSE TO GOD AND PEOPLE NOT KNOW IT.  

WHEN MOSES CAME DOWN FROM THE MOUNT, THE PEOPLE COULD SEE A DIFFERENCE IN HIM.  THERE WAS A VISIBLE CHANGE IN HIS COUNTENANCE, HE LITERALLY GLOWED FROM BEING IN THE PRESENCE OF THE LORD.  

THE THIEF ON THE CROSS CHANGES RIGHT THERE WHILE DYING BESIDE JESUS.  PEOPLE COULD SEE IT.  THERE WAS AN INSTANT CHANGE IN ATTITUDE.  THE CHANGE IN BEHAVIOR WAS VISIBLE.

BUT WHILE SALVATION IS NOT A SECRET, GOD DOES KEEP OTHER THINGS FROM US FOR NOW. 

 

 1. THERE IS A PLACE WHICH IS A SECRET TO OTHERS.

A. WHERE GOD DWELLS IS A SECRET. EVEN SCIENCE CANNOT FIND IT OUT.

Psalms 91:1  He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.

–GOD HAS A SPECIAL PLACE SET APART FOR YOU AND FOR HIM. IT IS A PLACE OF FELLOWSHIP, SOMETIMES CALLED PRAYER.

Psalms 4:3 But know that the LORD hath set apart him that is godly for himself: the LORD will hear when I call unto him.

–NOT EVERYONE CAN GO THERE. GOD DESIRES THAT WE HAVE A SECRET PLACE FOR BEING WITH HIM IN ADDITION TO COMING TOGETHER.

Matthew 6:6 But thou, when thou prayest, enter into thy closet, and when thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy Father which is in secret; and thy Father which seeth in secret shall reward thee openly.

Many people will set aside special cleaned and pressed clothing, drive many miles, check their clocks to make sure that they get there on time. The phone rings, and they ignore it because they have a meeting. They have a place to go where they will be seen and spoken to privately by someone who has great knowledge. What are they doing ? Getting ready for a doctor’s appointment. BUT, why don’t Christians treat their appointment with God in the same dedication and seriousness ?

B. WHAT IS A SECRET TO SOME, IS NOT A SECRET TO OTHERS.

–GOD REVEALS THINGS TO PEOPLE FOR A VARIETY OF REASONS.

Daniel 2:19  Then was the secret revealed unto Daniel in a night vision. Then Daniel blessed the God of heaven.
Daniel 2:30  But as for me, this secret is not revealed to me for any wisdom that I have more than any living, but for their sakes that shall make known the interpretation to the king, and that thou mightest know the thoughts of thy heart.

IT WAS NOT BECAUSE DANIEL WAS SO SMART !

–THE GIFT OF KNOWLEDGE.

–SALVATION REVEALED TO HEARTS THAT ARE HUNGRY TO KNOW GOD.

Matthew 11:25 At that time Jesus answered and said, I thank thee, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent, and hast revealed them unto babes.

–THINGS ARE REVEALED BUY THE HOLY SPIRIT.

Matthew 16:17  And Jesus answered and said unto him, Blessed art thou, Simon Barjona: for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my Father which is in heaven.
Luke 2:26  And it was revealed unto him by the Holy Ghost, that he should not see death, before he had seen the Lord’s Christ.

–GOD HAS REVEALED OUR FUTURE THROUGH HIS SPIRIT.

1 Corinthians 2:9-11 But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him. But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God. For what man knoweth the things of a man, save the spirit of man which is in him? even so the things of God knoweth no man, but the Spirit of God.

C. THE LIGHT SHOULD NOT REMAIN A SECRET THAT WE HAVE BEEN WITH GOD.

Luke 11:33  No man, when he hath lighted a candle, putteth it in a secret place, neither under a bushel, but on a candlestick, that they which come in may see the light.

 

3. THERE WILL BE NOTHING SECRET IN THE DAY OF JUDGMENT.

A. YOUR SINS WILL BE REVEALED UNLESS THEY ARE HIDDEN BY THE BLOOD OF CHRIST.

Matthew 10:26  Fear them not therefore: for there is nothing covered, that shall not be revealed; and hid, that shall not be known.

B. BUT WE ARE HIDDEN IN CHRIST.

1 Corinthians 1:30  But of him are ye in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption: Romans 8:1 There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.

C. YOUR SPIRITUAL CONDITION IS NO SECRET.

PEOPLE DECEIVE THEMSELVES ALL THE TIME INTO THINKING THAT GOD DOESN’T REALLY KNOW WHAT GOES ON IN YOUR MIND. HE DOES. NOTHING IS A SECRET TO HIM.

HE KNOWS IF YOU HAVE BEEN HALF-HEARTED IN YOUR COMMITMENT TO CHRIST.

HE KNOWS IF YOU HAVE NEVER TRULY BEEN BORN AGAIN. DON’T TRY TO CONVINCE YOURSELF THAT YOU ARE SAVED WHEN YOU DON’T HAVE THE EVIDENCE THAT YOU HAVE BEEN SAVED.

 

“God’s Little Secrets”
A Bible Study with Dr. Ed J. MacWilliams
082315

GOD’S REMEDIES

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GOD’S REMEDIES

 

EVERYONE FACES SITUATIONS AND CONDITIONS THAT WE NEED TO CHANGE.  IT MAY BE THE WAY WE TREAT OTHERS.   IT MAY BE THE WAY WE TREAT OUR FINANCES.  IT MAY THE THE WAY OUR FAMILY WORKS.  IT MAY BE THE WAY WE SEE OUR COUNTRY GOING.   SOMETIMES IT’S HARD, BUT THOSE THINGS OFTEN INVOLVE US BEING INVOLVED.   HOWEVER, TO GET THE BEST POSSIBLE SOLUTION, WE CANNOT LEAVE GOD OUT OF THE EQUATION.

GOD CAN FIX THINGS THAT LOOK PRETTY BAD IN UNLIMITED WAYS.  LETS EXPLORE SOME SO YOU CAN WIDEN YOUR FAITH AND BELIEVE THE IMPOSSIBLE WITH HIM.

1. HE CAN TURN THINGS AROUND.
      ALL THINGS WORK TOGETHER FOR GOOD. BUT THE PROMISE IS CONDITIONAL.

  “And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.”  Romans 8:28

          WHAT IS THE EVIDENCE OF YOUR LOVE ? IS GOD SOMEONE YOU TURN
TO WHEN YOU HAVE PROBLEMS ONLY ? HOW ABOUT YOUR FAITHFULNESS ?
CAN PEOPLE SEE THAT YOU LOVE THE LORD BY YOUR ACTIONS ?
Do you tell people about your relationship with God ? Do you give
Him what you have left over from all your spending, or do you
give Him your best ? These are outward indicators of love.
True love is not just a feeling. It is action that can be seen.

A. HE CAN TAKE SEEMINGLY IMPOSSIBLE SITUATIONS, AND
TURN THEM AROUND FOR GOOD. NOT ONLY DID THEY HAVE
A SON, AS PROMISED, BUT THE WHOLE WORLD BEGAN
TALKING WHEN IT CAME AT THEIR AGE.

  “And he said, I will certainly return unto thee according to the time of life; and, lo, Sarah thy wife shall have a son. And Sarah heard it in the tent door, which was behind him.”  Genesis 18:10
“Is any thing too hard for the LORD? At the time appointed I will return unto thee, according to the time of life, and Sarah shall have a son.”   Genesis 18:14

   B. WHEN YOU INNOCENTLY GO IN THE WRONG DIRECTION,
AND GOD STOPS YOU. YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH THE LORD
SUDDENLY INTENSIFIES.

  “Now therefore restore the man his wife; for he is a prophet, and he shall pray for thee, and thou shalt live: and if thou restore her not, know thou that thou shalt surely die, thou, and all that are thine.”   Genesis 20:7

2. HE CAN MAKE CIRCUMSTANCES AND CONDITIONS CHANGE.
HEALING IS THE MOST DESCRIPTIVE WORD FOR THIS.

A. THERE IS HEALING OF THE MIND.

  “For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.”   2 Timothy 1:7

        CAN THOSE WHOSE MINDS HAVE BEEN CORRUPTED BE BROUGHT
BACK TO CORRECT THINKING ?

  ” And you, that were sometime alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now hath he reconciled”   Colossians 1:21

   B. THERE IS HEALING OF THE HEART.

  “He healeth the broken in heart, and bindeth up their wounds.”   Psalm 147:3

   C. THERE IS HEALING FOR THE SPIRIT AND SOUL.

  “How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him.”  Acts 10:38
“And they that were vexed with unclean spirits: and they were healed.”  Luke 6:18

3. HE CAN WORK YOU THROUGH THE MOST DIFFICULT TIMES
TO THE AMAZEMENT OF PEOPLE WHO OBSERVE.
—EVEN PEOPLE WHO THOUGHT YOU COULD NEVER CHANGE.
NEVER LIVE FOR GOD. NEVER HAVE A CHRISTIAN HOME.
GOD IS ABLE TO DO GREAT THINGS THROUGH PEOPLE
WHO SUBMIT TO HIM IN FAITH.

  “Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.”   2 Corinthians 5:17


 

WHAT DO YOU WANT FROM JESUS ? ? ?

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WHAT DO YOU
WANT FROM
JESUS ? ? ?

“Then Jesus turned, and saw them following, and saith unto them, What seek ye? They said unto him, Rabbi, (which is to say, being interpreted, Master,) where dwellest thou?”      John 1:38

Why do you come to the dwelling place the Lord Jesus ? Sadly for many people it is to meet new friends, to make business contacts, to enjoy the music, to have a connection with the community, to have an outlet where one can do good, to pacify a spouse, and the list goes on. At the bottom of the list – to learn more about God and His plan for their lives or (and this is only slightly higher on the list) to worship God.

1. DO YOU COME TO JESUS FOR PURELY SELFISH PURPOSES ?
      IN FACT, THAT IS THE REASON MOST PEOPLE COME TO HIM. TO FIND A
SOLUTION TO THEIR GUILT. TO GAIN POWER OVER THEIR WEAKNESSES,
TO GET INTO HEAVEN, TO GIVE THEIR LIVES A PURPOSE. THERE IS
NOTHING WRONG WITH COMING TO HIM FOR THE FIRST TIME SELFISHLY.
A. BUT, THEN WE BECOME NEW CREATURES, AND GOD’S PURPOSE
REPLACES OUR OWN.

  And when they had found him on the other side of the sea, they said unto him, Rabbi, when camest thou hither? Jesus answered them and said, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Ye seek me, not because ye saw the miracles, but because ye did eat of the loaves, and were filled. Labour not for the meat which perisheth, but for that meat which endureth unto everlasting life, which the Son of man shall give unto you: for him hath God the Father sealed. Then said they unto him, What shall we do, that we might work the works of God?
JOHN 6:25-28


B. PUTTING OURSELVES AND OUR OWN INTERESTS ABOVE CHRIST USUALLY
LEADS US TO SPIRITUAL DEFEAT.

  But Peter followed him afar off unto the high priest’s palace, and went in, and sat with the servants, to see the end.
MATTHEW 26:58

2. SEEKING JESUS DOESN’T ALWAYS GIVE PEOPLE THE PURPOSES THEY EXPECTED.
MOST OF THE TIME, WE RECEIVE THINGS WE DIDN’T EXPECT. PETER DIDN’T GROW
UP WANTING TO BE A FISHER OF MEN.

  And he saith unto them, Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.
MATTHEW 4:19


A. HE DIDN’T GIVE THE PROMISE TO MATERIAL SECURITY AND COMFORT.

  Now when Jesus saw great multitudes about him, he gave commandment to depart unto the other side. And a certain scribe came, and said unto him, Master, I will follow thee whithersoever thou goest. And Jesus saith unto him, The foxes have holes, and the birds of the air have nests; but the Son of man hath not where to lay his head.
MATTHEW 8:18-20


B. HE GAVE A PURPOSE OF PLEASING GOD BY OBEDIENCE.

  And he left the oxen, and ran after Elijah, and said, Let me, I pray thee, kiss my father and my mother, and then I will follow thee. And he said unto him, Go back again: for what have I done to thee?
1 KINGS 19:20


C. HE DEMANDED THAT HIS PURPOSES SHOULD OUTWEIGHT ANY OTHER BONDS AND
COMMITMENTS.   AFTER ALL, HE IS GOD IN FLESH.    BY DOING THAT HE WILL
STRENGTHEN THE MARRIAGE, FAMILY, AND FRIENDSHIP.

  And it came to pass, that, as they went in the way, a certain man said unto him, Lord, I will follow thee whithersoever thou goest. And Jesus said unto him, Foxes have holes, and birds of the air have nests; but the Son of man hath not where to lay his head. And he said unto another, Follow me. But he said, Lord, suffer me first to go and bury my father. Jesus said unto him, Let the dead bury their dead: but go thou and preach the kingdom of God. And another also said, Lord, I will follow thee; but let me first go bid them farewell, which are at home at my house. And Jesus said unto him, No man, having put his hand to the plough, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God.
LUKE 9:57-62

3. WE CANNOT MAKE UP OUR OWN WAY OF FOLLOWING JESUS.
A. GOD WILL REVEAL THROUGH HIS WORD AND APPLY BY HIS SPIRIT THE
WAYS HE WANTS US TO GO.

  Peter said unto him, Lord, why cannot I follow thee now? I will lay down my life for thy sake.
JOHN 13:37


—PETER WANTED TO FOLLOW JESUS IN THE WAY THAT SEEMED LOGICAL AND
REASONABLE TO HIM.    BUT, PETER DID NOT KNOW ALL THE JESUS
DID. NEITHER DO WE.

B. WE HAVE TO DENY WHAT WE WANT — OR WHAT OTHERS SAY WE SHOULD
HAVE. WE MUST TAKE THE PROBLEMS WE HAVE (THE CROSS), AND CARRY IT.
DON’T WAIT FOR THE LORD TO REMOVE IT FIRST.

  Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.
MATTHEW 16:24


C. THERE IS ONLY ONE WAY TO FOLLOW GOD. BY KNOWING JESUS CHRIST
PERSONALLY, RECEIVING HIM BY FAITH, AND FOLLOWING HIM.

  Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.
JOHN 14:6

 



PSALM 66

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This entry is part 63 of 65 in the series Psalms

PSALM CHAPTER 66

~~ “Make a joyful noise unto God, all ye lands…” ~~

Will There Be Universal Worship
of One God ? Yes !

1. WHAT EVERYONE SHOULD DO. V.1-2.
A. ALL NATIONS ARE INCLUDED. IT IS A GOOD THING. PS. 92:1.
B. THIS IS NOT JUST SINGING. IT IS
Heb. Roo’ah=“SHOUT WITH JOY or TRIUMPH.”
C. THE MANNER IN WHICH IT IS DONE IS NOT IDENTIFIED HERE.
CLARIFIERS: PS. 95:2, PS. 98:4, PS. 98:6.
—HOW TO “HONOR HIS NAME” PS. 96:8, PS. 135:3, PS. 149:3.
—HOW TO “MAKE HIS PRAISE GLORIOUS”

2. PRAYER IS HEARD. V. 2-3.
A. PRAYER IS NEEDED FOR INEVITABLE CONFLICTS AHEAD.
1 JOHN 3:1-4, 2 PETER 3:11-12,
B. FAITH IS NEEDED TO PRAISE. WE MUST BELIEVE IN THE
FORGIVENESS OF THE LORD. ROMANS 4:7, 1 JOHN 2:12.

3. HAPPINESS IS PRESENT. V.4.
A. KNOWING THAT YOU ARE CHOSEN. EPH. 1:4, 2 THES. 2:13,
B. KNOWING THAT WE CAN APPROACH THE LORD. HEB. 7:25,
HEBREWS 12:18-22.
C. KNOWING WE WILL BE SATISFIED & BLESSED.
—IN THE FUTURE. PS. 17:15.
—WITH GOD’S SALVATION. JEREMIAH 31:12-14.
D. WILL WE BE BLESSED WITH HIS HOUSE ?
—THE EARTHLY HOUSE(S) OF GOD. JOHN 2:16, GEN. 28:17,
JUDGES 20:18. WHAT MAKES IT GOD’S HOUSE ?
>NT CONCEPT, TOO ? 1 PETER 4:17, 1 TIMOTHY 3:15.
—THE HEAVENLY HOUSE OF THE LORD. JOHN 14:2,
HEBREWS 9:11, HEBREWS 9:24.

4. HE CAN BRING ABOUT FEAR-INDUCING THINGS.
A. THE EVENTS BETWEEN MOSES AND PHARAOH. DEUT. 10:21.
B. THE RED SEA EVENTS. PS. 106:22.
C. THE EVENTS ON THE MOUNT. ISAIAH 64:3.

5. HE IS THE GOD OF NATURE, AND RULES IT.
A. WHO PREPARED A GREAT FISH ? JONAH 1:17, ALSO 4:6,7,8.
B. WHO BROKE THE EARTH APART AND FLOODED IT ? GEN. 6:7.
C. WHO PARTED THE WAVES ? EXODUS 14:21.
D. WHO CONTROLS THINGS OUTSIDE THE ATMOSPHERE ?
LUKE 17:29, 2 KINGS 1:10-14.
E. WHO BRINGS LAST DAYS SIGNS ? MATT. 24:29, LUKE 21:11.

6. HE IS THE ONE WHO BLESSES THE EARTH. V. 9-13
A. WITH THE RIVER OF GOD. (ONLY PLACE PHRASE IS USED)
—SHOWN TO ISRAEL IN WILDERNESS. IS. 4:21, 1 COR. 10:4.
—NOT JUST PHYSICAL RAIN. JOHN 7:38.
—COMING SOON. REV. 22:1-2.
B. THE INSIGNIFICANT PLACES ARE BLESSED.
—LITTLE PLACES, HILLS, PASTURES. MICAH 2:5.
—LITTLE PEOPLE. 1 SAM. 15:17, ISAIAH 60:22, LUKE 17:1-2.