Sermon – The Greatest Gift

Standing Alone

October 3, 2024 The Greatest Gift

Standing Alone

Introduction
1. When I started off as a Christian, and began to do soul winning, really getting involved in the church, really wanting to be all I could possibly be for the Lord,
2. telling everybody about our Lord Jesus Christ. As time went on, I would say to my comrades why are you not as enthusiastic as I am?
3. Their answer was Son, when you’ve been doing it as long as we have, and the newness wears off, you begin to realize that not everyone is as gung ho as when they first got saved.
4. I said “I disagree with you. I’ll always be enthusiastic and energized and motivated to see lives changed as mine was.” I took it seriously.
5. I’d say to my comrades, “Did you? They said the newness wears off and I said to them I disagree.
6. When I read the scripture that the word of God is fresh and new every morning. Lamentations 3:23: They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness. I’ve been a Christian since 1981.
7. I never stopped trusting and believing, though I made a lot of mistakes and had to ask for a lot of forgiveness. I’m still fighting the good fight of faith.
8. I’m fighting with vigor, with enthusiasm, standing in faith, praying in faith, trusting in my Lord and Savior, and he’s always leading the way.
9. I then knew at that point I was standing alone but that’s ok. I knew that my Lord and Savior would never leave me or forsake me. Hebrews 13:5: Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.
10. Sometimes in this life we have to walk alone. We have to know what God has made us to be, and by standing alone, what I mean by this, is that when everyone’s going to a very comfortable position, I am not, and I will not.
11. I will stand firm. I will teach firm. I will preach firm. The Lord is my buckler and refuge. Psalm 91:4: He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his wings shalt thou trust: his truth shall be thy shield and buckler.
12. We must stay away from compromise at all costs if we’re going to maintain as solid, strong, war-fighting Christians.
13. This day and age that we live in now is the Laodicean Church Age, the lukewarm church, the false word that’s being administered through the church,
14. the disarming of saints from carrying their bibles, not knowing their bibles, listening to what anyone and everyone says.
15. Not realizing that they’ll stand before the Judgment seat of Christ if saved, or the Great White Throne judgment if unsaved,
16. When Christ asks them “Why did you do this or that, why did you stay complacent, comfortable, never reaching out, never telling anyone about Me,
17. Sharing all the testimony that I built in your life for you to hold onto and now your end has come. Now you and the Lord have come face to face.
18. There will be no more excuses or repentance and no more turning back. It’s either one or the other.
19. At the Great White Throne judgment, it will be a complete reviewing of your life. If you make it to that arena, you’d better forget it.
20. There are many pastors and TV preachers that are duping, lying, falsifying and hypnotizing the saints. They will not be forgotten about.
21. When they say to the Lord “Didn’t I cast out demons and adhere to your word? I taught them all the gifts of the Spirit.
22. I lived a lavish life which I thought was the abundant life of prosperity.
23. He will say depart from me, you iniquity, I never knew you. Everything you did was for selfish gain.
24. Standing alone in this climate and world that we live in only to get worse. We must stay close to God’s Word.
25. We must read God’s Word and stay away from things that lead us astray. Man is not the final authority.
26. Man has the authority and is ordained of God to keep His Principles and standards. And to look on the things of others more than himself.
27. His job is to train and eqquip the saints for the work of the ministry. Now let us look into our message, Standing Alone.

Where are you today? Where do you stand?
1. Do you stand on God’s inerrant Word? Psalm 119:160: Thy word is true from the beginning: and every one of thy righteous judgments endureth for ever. In the New Testament it says let God be true and every man a liar. God’s Word is worthy of our trust. If He said it, He will do it. You can stand on that.
2. Do you stand on Jesus Christ as the only way to the Father? John 14:6: Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me. No one is going to get to God by, Budha, Sung Myung Moon, or any other besides Jesus
3. Do you stand on salvation by grace through faith? Ephesians 2:8-9: For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast. We’re not saved by works. We’re not saved by baptism. We are saved by grace alone through faith in Christ alone.
4. And finally, do you stand on the fact that you’ll NEVER EVER lose your salvation if you truly have it. Ephesians 4:30: And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption. If you sincerely asked Jesus Christ to come into your heart and be your Lord and Savior, you are saved. You are sealed. Now, as a result of that, live a lifestyle of service to Him out of gratitude. These are the principles every Christian should stand on.

Are you with the majority? Are you just going with the flow?
1. God doesn’t want us going through the broad gate with the majority, that leads to destruction. Matthew 7:13: Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: These are the ones that go through the motions of Christianity but never truly asked Christ into their hearts and lives.
2. Instead, we who have sincerely trusted Christ, will not go with the majority. Matthew 7:14: Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it. I am one of those few. What about you? Have you found the narrow strait gait by receiving Christ, or are you with the majority at the broad gate?

Are you just listening to what the pastor says? Are you checking out what he says?
1. This is why I talk about carrying your bible to church all the time. Be a Berean and check out what I’m saying to make sure it’s the absolute truth. Acts 17:11: These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so. Did you catch that? These were more noble, more honorable because they didn’t just take what they heard as being gospel. They checked it out. What about you?

Have you ever felt alone? If so, what brought you there?
1. Did you get there because you have put Jesus first, over everyone else? Matthew 10:37: He that loveth father or mother more than me is not worthy of me: and he that loveth son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me. It’s good to have family & friends. God is a God of family, and He brings people into our lives to help us along the way, but we must always put God first before any of them.
2. Know that if the world hates you for your stand, they hated Jesus and the Father before they ever hated you. John 15:24: If I had not done among them the works which none other man did, they had not had sin: but now have they both seen and hated both me and my Father. If you stand for the Word of God and speak against sin, you’re not going to be popular with mankind, but you will be pleasing to God and have His Favor.

What’ve you done to reject selfishness, selfish gain, the “me-myself-and-I” concept?
1. Are you seeking God first every day? Matthew 6:33: But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. Before your feet hit the floor, and before you think about or worry about anything else, seek Him. Talk to Him. Put Him first in your life.
2. Are you denying yourself and picking up your cross daily? Luke 9:23: And he said to them all, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, & follow me. This is God’s Call to everyone that wants to be a true Christian. He also said that if we do not pick up our cross and deny ourself, we are not worthy of Him.
3. Are you looking on the things of others more than yourself? Philippians 2:4: Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others. This is why we make sure to check in on people, and let them know how much they are appreciated. We pray for one another. We help each other whenever we can.

Are you a compromiser? Have you compromised God’s Word?
1. Christian compromise is making shameful concessions to God’s Word and Will. It is departing from the Truth.
2. A compromiser is one who leaves the doctrines and principles of God’s Word to reconcile a competing philosophy or way of life.
3. An example of a compromiser was Peter. Paul tells us of an incident where he had to correct Peter. Galatians 2:11-13: But when Peter was come to Antioch, I withstood him to the face, because he was to be blamed. For before that certain came from James, he did eat with the Gentiles: but when they were come, he withdrew and separated himself, fearing them which were of the circumcision. And the other Jews dissembled likewise with him; insomuch that Barnabas also was carried away with their dissimulation. Are you a compromiser like Peter, or do you stand on the inerrant Word of God and seek to save the lost?
4. Have you had to take a stand, or stand alone, possibly losing friends or family for your stand for Christ?

Who in the bible stood alone?
1. Moses was a Hebrew raised in Pharaoh’s palace who went to the Pharaoh to demand the release of his people from slavery. Hebrews 11:23-24: By faith Moses, when he was born, was hid three months of his parents, because they saw he was a proper child; and they were not afraid of the king’s commandment. By faith Moses, when he was come to years, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh’s daughter; Moses stood alone for God and for the Nation of Israel, and God used him to rescue the Israelites from bondage in Egypt.
2. Nehemiah gave up his job as the king’s cupbearer to rebuild the city of his exiled people. Nehemiah 2:1-2: And it came to pass in the month Nisan, in the twentieth year of Artaxerxes the king, that wine was before him: and I took up the wine, and gave it unto the king. Now I had not been beforetime sad in his presence. Wherefore the king said unto me, Why is thy countenance sad, seeing thou art not sick? this is nothing else but sorrow of heart. Then I was very sore afraid, You can read the rest of the story, how that Nehemiah asked the king to let him leave to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem. Nehemiah stood alone for God and had to fight the enemy at the same time he was building the walls.
3. Paul was a former Christian killer who became an Apostle, and faced many trials and persecutions after his conversion. He had this testimony in 2nd Corinthians 4:8: We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; Paul stood along many times for the gospel and did not compromise God’s Word at any time.

and what was their sacrifice
1. Moses sacrificed the comforts of being in Pharoah’s house. He could have been in line to be the next Pharaoh. Instead he confronted Pharaoh.
2. Nehemiah also sacrificed the luxuries of being in the king’s palace, to stand for God and the nation of Israel. He fought and built to restore the walls of the land of Israel.
3. Paul also sacrificed the comforts of a Pharisee’s life to serve the Lord. What will you sacrifice to stand for the gospel of Jesus Christ?
Story of the Hymn “Stand Up, Stand Up for Jesus”
1. In the spring of 1858 revival was taking place in Philadelphia. The movement grew out of midday prayer meetings coordinated by the YMCA.
2. Dudley A. Tyng, a young minister, soon came to be recognized as its leader.
3. Though there was some controversy over his anti-slavery preaching, Tyng was known and loved for his zeal for the work of God.
4. On Tuesday, April 13th, 1858, Rev. Tyng was studying at his country home when he went to the barn to check on his mule which was driving a machine that shelled corn.
5. As he patted down the animal, the sleeve of his gown got caught in the cogs of the machine, and his arm was severely injured.
6. The arm was soon amputated, the wound became mortal, and Tyng died the following week.
7. Before he died, however, he was asked by friends if there were any messages he would have them give to those who had participated with him in the revival work.
8. Tyng responded briefly, beginning with the words, “Tell them, ‘Let us all stand up for Jesus.’”
9. In the days and events following Tyng’s death, these final words were invoked several times and became a resounding exhortation to all who’d been affected by his ministry.
10. When George Duffield, Jr. preached to his own congregation the next week, he focused on Ephesians 6:14 (“Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth…”) and concluded his sermon with a hymn he had written.
11. It began with the line, “Stand up, stand up for Jesus.” The hymn was soon picked up by publishers, and it quickly became an established work.
12. Similar to “Onward Christian Soldiers,” it became popular among soldiers of the Civil War, most likely because of its militaristic imagery and language.
13. But, as we noted with that hymn, the connection to worldly battles was not the author’s intent;
14. Christians have often sung soldier songs, because, as God tells us in Ephesians 6 and elsewhere, our lives in Christ are a fight for faith in the midst of spiritual enemies. We are called to stand in the strength he supplies.
15. (I have one delightfully awkward memory of this hymn. We occasionally sang this song in a church I attended many years ago;
16. one Sunday we sang it but it was during a part of the service where we all sat.
17. Everyone was wondering how we could sing “Stand up for Jesus” when we were all instructed by the bulletin to sit;
18. finally one brave lady stood up and the rest of us soon joined her.) Let’s all stand for the gospel of Jesus, even if we have to stand alone.

Conclusion
1. If you’re fighting the good fight of faith, studying God’s Word, leading people to salvation, looking on the things of others more than yourself,
2. picking up your cross and following Christ, you might be standing alone.

Psalm 23:4

July 8, 2024 The Greatest Gift

Psalm 23:4: Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.

Introduction
1. Prior to being a Christian, I remember vividly some fears that I had in this life growing up. I had a strong fear of the dark.
2. When I’d go visit a friend who was probably a quarter mile away, I’d have to run through this dark trail and you’d hear all these spooky, scary sounds.
3. When I became a Christian, I prayed against that. My pastor prayed with me. In fact I had the church pray for me, it was such an issue.
4. Growing up my family liked horror movies. I remember one time going to the drive-in in North Hampton New Hampshire.
5. My mom wanted to watch House of Dark Shadows and Night of Dark Shadows. Then she’d have it on when we got home from school.
6. I knew there was a reason why I was so afraid, but I think I was more afraid of the unknown, because I really didn’t know what was known because when your mother or father is doing something, you think it’s ok, but as you get older you realize it wasn’t ok.
7. When I became a Christian, I wanted to face those fears, but I wanted to have a healthy awareness.
8. I remember going back to that trail as a kid and walking that trail, praying all the way through it. All of the sounds as I was walking,
9. I realized I had heard all those sounds in the daylight. They were just birds in the trees. Animals scuffing around in the dark trying to find food. Why?
10. Because they also were afraid of the unknown person that could take their life away.
11. When I look at the title of my message, I realize as a Christian, that the only fear I need to have, is the fear of the Lord.
12. Always remembering that it’s not the darkness that should frighten anyone. It’s merely what comes out of it that shakes you.
13. If you put things in perspective like that, I believe you’ll have a very healthy perspective of darkness vs light.
14. The devil is the one that makes people have fear because that’s one of his tactics to keep one in bondage and paralyze a whole host of people from conducting their lives in a normal way.

I’ve overcome a lot of fears. One day we will all face the second death, and the first one being when you were born again and surrendering your heart to Jesus.
That was the first death, and becoming born again. The second death is when you physically die and your body lays and decays.
The bible says in 1st Corinthians 4:17: Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord.
Though one day I shall walk through the valley of the shadow of death, and understand more things, as I age in the grace and knowledge of the Lord, I see evil for what it is. I’m an overcomer.
The bible says in Revelation 12:11: And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death.
The bible goes on to say in 2nd Corinthians 5:8: We are confident, I say, and willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord.
The bible also says in Matthew 10:28: And fear not them which kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul: but rather fear him which is able to destroy both soul and body in hell.
Now let us look into our message today, Psalm 23:4: Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.

In looking at this message, how do you see the scripture in Psalm 23:4?
1. Everyone will walk through the valley of the shadow of death at one point. Hebrews 9:27: And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment: No one is exempt, unless you go up in the rapture first. The shadow of death is not something to fear, it is a transition point from this location to another.
2. We need not fear evil. God is always with us. Psalm 32:7: Thou art my hiding place; thou shalt preserve me from trouble; thou shalt compass me about with songs of deliverance. Selah. Though hard times may come, and bad things may happen, we can always trust in the protecting presence of our Lord.
3. His rod and staff comfort us. He is always leading and guiding us if we submit to Him. Psalm 31:3: For thou art my rock and my fortress; therefore for thy name’s sake lead me, and guide me. God doesn’t hide his will for our lives.

We just need to crack open that book, pray, and He will lead us. We can be comforted to know that He will do this.

How do you perceive death?
1. The apostle Paul said that to live is Christ and to die is gain. Philippians 1:21: For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain. What does that mean? As long as I have breath in my lungs, I will live for Christ. When I die, I will gain eternity with Him.
2. Paul also said that to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord. 2nd Corinthians 5:8: We are confident, I say, and willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord.
3. We also know that the moment someone takes their last breath here, and their first one in heaven, there’s no former remembrance of this life. Ecclesiastes 1:11: There is no remembrance of former things; neither shall there be any remembrance of things that are to come with those that shall come after. There have been so many instances where people claim to have been to heaven or hell and come back to write books about it and make millions! This is false doctrine. There is no remembrance of this life, and who’d want to remember this place!?

What do you truly perceive as being life?
1. The King James bible dictionary defines life as, 1. that state of animals, plants, or an organized being, in which its natural functions and motions are performed, or in which its organs are capable of performing their functions.
2. In animals, animation; vitality; and in man, that state of being in which the soul and body are united.

Before becoming a Christian, what were your fears?
1. You might have had a fear of the unknown. We’re not to fear what might happen tomorrow or in the future. Jesus said this in Matthew 6:34: Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof. Just follow Jesus today and trust Him for the unknown things of tomorrow.
2. A lot of people have a fear of death. Hebrews 2:15: And deliver them who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage. Those who have a fear of death are in bondage. Give your heart and soul to Jesus, and you will find life, here and for eternity.

When you’d hear that scripture in Psalm 23:4, might that be something you’d try to hold on to, to suppress your fears
1. When fears come your way, concentrate on the Lord. Praise Him and fear Him instead. Psalm 22:23: Ye that fear the Lord, praise him; all ye the seed of Jacob, glorify him; and fear him, all ye the seed of Israel. When the enemy tries to put fear in your heart, singing a song of praise to God, and remembering all he has done for you can quench those fears and put a confident faith in its place.

What does fear mean to you? Have you been an overcomer?
1. I once heard an acronym for fear, as being False Evidence Appearing Real. On the other hand, faith is Fantastic Adventures In Trusting Him.
2. You can be an overcomer by the Blood of the Lamb, and the word of your testimony, and the testimony of others. Revelation 12:11: And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death. This is why it is so important to share your testimony. You can help someone else be an overcomer.
3. When I say this is one of Satan’s tactics to keep you in fear and bondage, do you see that, and have you noticed it in your walk with God and study of God?

How did the patriarchs in the Old Testament deal with this scripture in Psalm 23:4?
1. Jacob was about to have a meeting with his estranged brother Esau and he definitely had a fear of evil. Genesis 32:11-12: Deliver me, I pray thee, from the hand of my brother, from the hand of Esau: for I fear him, lest he will come and smite me, and the mother with the children. And thou saidst, I will surely do thee good, and make thy seed as the sand of the sea, which cannot be numbered for multitude.” Jacob surrendered his fear to the Lord, and the Lord blessed him in the end.
2. God told Abraham to fear not. Abraham had a fear that Isaac would never come. Genesis 15:1-3: After these things the word of the Lord came unto Abram in a vision, saying, Fear not, Abram: I am thy shield, and thy exceeding great reward. And Abram said, Lord God, what wilt thou give me, seeing I go childless, and the steward of my house is this Eliezer of Damascus? And Abram said, Behold, to me thou hast given no seed: and, lo, one born in my house is mine heir. Abraham walked with God, and at the age of 100, the promise came. When we live in fear and don’t trust God’s Promises, we can bring about Ishmaels, and make a mess of things.
Who in the New Testament dealt with this also? What was their outcome?
1. Peter had a fear of what the crowd might do to him, and as a result, he denied the Lord. Matthew 26:69-70: Now Peter sat without in the palace: and a damsel came unto him, saying, Thou also wast with Jesus of Galilee. But he denied before them all, saying, I know not what thou sayest. We should have more trust in God, than fear of what man might do or say.
2. The disciples were caught in a storm and had fear because Jesus was asleep in the midst of the storm. Mark 4:37-39: And there arose a great storm of wind, and the waves beat into the ship, so that it was now full. And he was in the hinder part of the ship, asleep on a pillow: and they awake him, and say unto him, Master, carest thou not that we perish? And he arose, and rebuked the wind, and said unto the sea, Peace, be still. And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm. Have you dealt with fear of impending danger, or needed help and it seemed like Jesus was asleep. Well, he never slumbers or sleeps, and as soon as you call on Him, He’s right there and in due time will calm the storm.

We are more than conquerors.
1. This can be found in Romans 8:37: Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us. Paul goes on to say that nothing can ever separate us from the love of God, which is in Jesus Christ our Lord. We’re more than conquerors! We’re children of the King!

I shall fear no evil
1. This is our main verse for this message. Psalm 23:4: Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. Just keep trusting God. He will protect you and no weapon formed against you will prosper. Fear not!

I shall quench the fiery darts of the enemy.
1. The bible says this in Ephesians 6:16: Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. This is the key to everything we’ve been talking about. That shield of faith. Are you confident and full of expectant faith that God will be with you, no matter what comes your way?

Story of Psalm 23.
1. Psalm 23 is one of the more famous psalms written by David the King. This was the same David who took down Goliath with a slingshot and some smooth stones.
2. David was now King but he was also a musician and liked to write poems and songs. This particular psalm is about God being his Shepherd-King.
3. Keep in mind that David used to be a shepherd. He remembers how he lead and cared for a herd of sheep.
4. At first thought a King and a Shepherd are very different. When I think about a King I think of a royal crown, a large castle, servants, large fancy meals and a beautiful Queen.
5. When I think of a shepherd, I think of a servant who works in the fields with raggedy old clothes and a small bag lunch.
6. There is also something that a Shepherd and a King have in common too. They both take care of something.
7. A King is supposed to look after and protect the kingdom of people under him and a Shepherd looks after and protects his herd of sheep.
8. A King might have fancier stuff than a shepherd but they both have an important job.
9. David might compare God to a shepherd because sometimes when we think of kings, we think of someone snobby,
10. Someone who thinks he’s more important than us and he couldn’t possibly know each person in his kingdom.
11. A shepherd on the other hand seems like a regular person that works hard and takes care and loves each of his sheep.
12. We wouldn’t be afraid to talk to a shepherd and could just be ourselves around him.
13. David knows that God isn’t like the kings on earth so he compares Him to a loving shepherd taking care of his people so we can get a better picture of what God is like.
14. So, throughout this chapter even though David is talking about himself as a sheep. I think it was meant for us to read and see ourselves as the sheep and God as our shepherd.
15. After thinking about a shepherd I thought about sheep and how they completely rely on the shepherd for food, shelter and safety. Just like we need to rely on God.

You might think that your parents provided all this for you but your parents had to rely and trust in God for a job, money & blessings so they could give you what you needed.
Another important point is that sheep don’t know as much as a shepherd. If you really think about it sheep are pretty dumb compared to a shepherd.
Compared to God we don’t know too much either! God knows our future, He made us and the whole world.
The first part of the psalm David talks about God being his shepherd and he is the sheep.
The shepherd makes sure his sheep has everything he needs like nice green grass and clean water. God gives him peace and rest because he can trust Him.
God keeps him on the good path. Even when there’s rough times he doesn’t have to be afraid. God is always with him and He can make him feel better when he needs it.
Then David talks about a banquet that God the King would prepare. There were lots of important, fancy banquets for kings and since David was a king he was thinking how God would treat him.
God would prepare a banquet for David and protect him from his enemies. He would treat David like a royal guest and anoint him.
In those days people would get anointed to become king or if they were recognized as being someone special.
David was trying to say that even though he was King, God recognized him as more than a king but as someone even more special to Him.
David ends by saying that he will continually be blessed by God with lots of goodness and love and he is looking forward to living with God forever.
God is our Shepherd-King and we are his sheep. God is guiding us, protecting us and He loves us. We don’t know as much as God does so we have to trust Him.
We need not fear the shadow of death, or evil for our God is with us.

Conclusion
1. In relation to this message today, where do you stand?
2. Are your eyes open and your mind ready to receive what’s truth and what’s not.

Facing your Fears

July 8, 2024 The Greatest Gift

Introduction
1. I remember many years ago when I had a lot of fears. My mom would watch a lot of Dark Shadows and those kinds of movies.
2. Not all the time, but a lot of the time as it was a series on TV around 4 or 5pm. I used to tell her that these movies keep me up at night.
3. When I said that to her, she began to relinquish those shows. They scared me. I had a lot of fear. It caused fear in a lot of other areas.
4. When I became a Christian, I truly overcame my fears by realizing that Jesus Christ was the only fear I needed to have, of not doing what He told me to do.
5. It just seemed like my fears vanished when I accepted Christ. I prayed with my pastor, and all my fears of what I couldn’t see or what might come upon me went away.
6. After praying, I felt I was free. My only real fear that I have today, is not doing exactly what the Lord has called me to do. I don’t like to be under conviction.
7. It feels like a weight until you’ve prayed to release it. It just stays on you. Many people are going through this life with so many fears;
8. not having enough food, water, shelter, a car, enough money, and many other things.
9. I believe that allowing God to take control of your life will allow you to combat your fears and be an overcomer. Standing with others.
10. Praying with others who may have gone or might be even going in the same direction you are in. God is the only answer in this area.
11. We must trust and believe and have faith to know that he’s in control of our every move. Now let us look into our message today Facing Your fears.

What is the first thing that comes to mind when I say what fears are you facing?
1. You might face the fear of the unknown. We’re not to fear what might happen tomorrow or in the future. Jesus said this in Matthew 6:34: Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof. Just follow Jesus today and trust Him for the unknown things of tomorrow.
2. A lot of people have a fear of death. Hebrews 2:15: And deliver them who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage. Those who have a fear of death are in bondage. Give your heart and soul to Jesus, and you will find life, here and for eternity.
3. You might face the fear of not having enough food, clothing, shelter etc. but Jesus says this in Matthew 6:31-33: Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed? (For after all these things do the Gentiles seek:) for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things. But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. If you will put God first in everything you do, and put your complete trust in Him, you need never have the fear of not having what you need. God will provide your needs. He never fails.

What is fear?
1. Fear is defined as A painful emotion or passion excited by an expectation of evil, or the apprehension of impending danger.
2. Fear is accompanied with a desire to avoid or ward off the expected evil. fear is an uneasiness of mind, upon the thought of future evil likely to befall us.

Why is there fear?
1. Fear exists where there is a lack of faith and trust. God’s Word says in Proverbs 3:5-7: Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the Lord, and depart from evil. Fear is described in this ackronym. False Evidence Appearing R Faith is Fantastic Adventures In Trusting Him.

Who initially brings fear and causes doubt?
1. The one who instigates fear and doubt is none other than Satan himself. Let’s look at Genesis 3:4-6: And the serpent said unto the woman, Ye shall not surely die: For God doth know that in the day ye eat thereof, then your eyes shall be opened, and ye shall be as gods, knowing good and evil. And when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was pleasant to the eyes, and a tree to be desired to make one wise, she took of the fruit thereof, and did eat, and gave also unto her husband with her; and he did eat. Right here we see Satan casting doubt on the words of God, and giving Eve the fear that she’s missing out on something.

What is a healthy fear?
1. The only fear that you and I are to have is the fear of the Lord. We’re to have a reverence and respect for Him, and a fear of not doing His Will. Psalm 111:10: The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom: a good understanding have all they that do his commandments: his praise endureth for ever. If you have a good healthy fear of the Lord, you have wisdom and understanding. This is the only fear we are to have.

Who in the bible was fearful
1. Jonah feared failure and ran away from Nineveh, ending up in the belly of a whale. We see the beginning of his adventure in Jona 1:1-3: Now the word of the Lord came unto Jonah the son of Amittai, saying, Arise, go to Nineveh, that great city, and cry against it; for their wickedness is come up before me. But Jonah rose up to flee unto Tarshish from the presence of the Lord, and went down to Joppa; and he found a ship going to Tarshish: so he paid the fare thereof, and went down into it, to go with them unto Tarshish from the presence of the Lord. Jonah eventually was thrown overboard at sea and was swallowed up by a fish. He prayed and was released by the fish, getting a second chance.
2. Moses struggled to believe he could lead his people out of Egypt. Exodus 3:10-11: Come now therefore, and I will send thee unto Pharaoh, that thou mayest bring forth my people the children of Israel out of Egypt. And Moses said unto God, Who am I, that I should go unto Pharaoh, and that I should bring forth the children of Israel out of Egypt? Moses had every excuse as to why he couldn’t fulfill his calling, but eventually he obeyed and God used him to bring the nation of Israel out of Egypt.
3. Ananias was sent by God to pray for the Apostle Paul’s blindness to be removed, but he too was fearful. Acts 9:13-15: Then Ananias answered, Lord, I have heard by many of this man, how much evil he hath done to thy saints at Jerusalem: And here he hath authority from the chief priests to bind all that call on thy name. But the Lord said unto him, Go thy way: for he is a chosen vessel unto me, to bear my name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel: Ananias obeyed the Lord, and prayed for Paul, and Paul went on his way to begin an amazing ministry.
4. Peter’s first response when Jesus did a miracle, was to have fear of not being holy enough to be with Jesus. Luke 5:8: When Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at Jesus’ knees, saying, Depart from me; for I am a sinful man, O Lord. Peter was sinful. He denied the Lord, and had to be rebuked by Paul, but he was used mightily by God.

How did the patriarchs and disciples overcome their fears?
1. Gideon Overcame fear and doubt to save Israel from the Midianites by recognizing God’s assurance. Judges 7:7-8: And the Lord said unto Gideon, By the three hundred men that lapped will I save you, and deliver the Midianites into thine hand: and let all the other people go every man unto his place. So the people took victuals in their hand, and their trumpets: and he sent all the rest of Israel every man unto his tent, and retained those three hundred men: and the host of Midian was beneath him in the valley. God wanted the nation of Israel to recognize that it was not by a multitude of people that they won the battle, but by the few, putting their trust in God and obeying Him.
2. Ananias Overcame fear to visit Saul, who persecuted Jesus’ disciples, by obeying God’s command to heal Saul. Acts 9:17-18: And Ananias went his way, and entered into the house; and putting his hands on him said, Brother Saul, the Lord, even Jesus, that appeared unto thee in the way as thou camest, hath sent me, that thou mightest receive thy sight, and be filled with the Holy Ghost. And immediately there fell from his eyes as it had been scales: and he received sight forthwith, and arose, and was baptized. When we put aside our fears, and trust God, great things can happen, like Ananias saw.
3. Joshua overcame fear with faith as he became the successor of a respected man in Hebrew history. Joshua 1:9-11: Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the Lord thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest. Then Joshua commanded the officers of the people, saying, Pass through the host, and command the people, saying, Prepare you victuals; for within three days ye shall pass over this Jordan, to go in to possess the land, which the Lord your God giveth you to possess it. Joshua trusted God and led the nation of Israel across the Jordan, into their promise from God.

What did Jesus say about fear?
1. Jesus encouraged us not to fear lack of provision. Matthew 6:25:Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on. Is not the life more than meat, and the body than raiment? God is our father, and he takes perfect care of His Kids, providing our every need.
2. If you fear that you are not valued by God, Jesus had this to say. Matthew 10:31: Fear ye not therefore, ye are of more value than many sparrows. You are loved, valued, and appreciated by God.
Story: Overcoming Fear
1. Once there was a young warrior. Her teacher told her that she had to do battle with fear.
2. She didn’t want to do that. It seemed too aggressive; it was scary; it seemed unfriendly.
3. But the teacher said she had to do it and gave her the instructions for the battle. The day arrived.
4. The student warrior stood on one side, and fear stood on the other. The warrior was feeling very small, and fear was looking big and wrathful. They both had their weapons.
5. The young warrior roused herself and went toward fear, prostrated three times, and asked, “May I have permission to go into battle with you?”
6. Fear said, “Thank you for showing me so much respect that you ask permission.” Then the young warrior said, “How can I defeat you?”
7. Fear replied, “My weapons are that I talk fast, and I get very close to your face. Then you get completely unnerved, and you do whatever I say.
8. If you don’t do what I tell you, I have no power. You can listen to me, and you can have respect for me.
9. You can even be convinced by me. But if you don’t do what I say, I have no power.” In that way, the student warrior learned how to defeat fear.
10. The Conversations with God series, which has had a profound influence on my life, describes fear as False Evidence Appearing Real.
11. I’m sure you could recall instances from your life when you imagined the worst about a situation but those fears never materialized and things turned out much better than you expected.
12. One of the main weapons fear has at its disposal is its ability to spin false stories.
13. It holds us back by creating very compelling narratives in our heads to control our decisions and actions.
14. In the past, I used to be an over-thinker and jump to all sorts of unpleasant conclusions because of fear.
15. But what has helped me immensely over the past 2-3 years is realizing how much of my fears are nothing more than assumptions.
16. Assumption by definition means a thing that is accepted as true or as certain to happen, without proof.
17. What’s one thing in your life you have not been doing because of fear? What will really happen if you take action despite your fears?
18. Perhaps like in the case of the young warrior in this story, you will find that the fears of your imagination may never materialize in reality.
19. Remember to trust God. Seek Him first, and He will help you be an overcomer, and go from victory to victory, and from glory to glory.

In conclusion, are you living in fear today? Do you want to be relieved of fear? This is what you need to do?
1. The first thing you need to be sure of, is that you are a born-again child of God. Examine yourself. 2nd Corinthians 13:5: Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves. Know ye not your own selves, how that Jesus Christ is in you, except ye be reprobates? If you are living in constant fear, perhaps you are not walking close to God and need to either ask Jesus into your heart for the first time, or rededicate your life to Him. We’ll be having the sinner’s prayer right after this, so prepare your hearts
2. Remember to seek God first in your life, and everything you need will be provided. Matthew 6:33: But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. Put God 1^st. Open the door and invite Jesus into your home, work, church, even your bank account, and watch what He will do.
3. Trust in God’s Love which is able to cast out fear. 1st John 4:18: There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love. Meditate on the great love that God has for you. His Love is perfect, and will cast out fear in your life.
4. Spend time in the secret place, God’s Presence every day. Psalm 91:1: He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. Spending time in praise and worship will cause your fear to vanish away. The problems you face will not disappear, but the fear will go away.
5. I hope this message has helped you to face your fears and be an overcomer with the help of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

Leaving a Legacy

April 10, 2024 The Greatest Gift

Leaving a Legacy

Introduction
1. As I’ve grown in the grace and knowledge of the Lord over many years since 1981, I’ve learned a lot of things.
2. One of the things I learned, is that the things I do, not what someone else does, is what will be determined at the judgment seat of Christ. 2nd Corinthians 5:10: For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad. What I should have done, what I could have done and what I didn’t do at all.
3. Over the years, I’ve heard how people build other people’s ministries and there’s nothing wrong with that providing that there’s a balance especially when you are a minister.
4. God has a calling on your life and when you leave this earth, the only legacy you end up with, is someone else’s instead of the ministry God gave you and the call on your life.
5. We should always encourage others in their gifts and talents, skills, calling and ministries.
6. But when God has given you a ministry, he expects you to cultivate the one he’s given you. You can’t answer for anyone else but yourself.
7. Many pastors fall into this situation where they rely on the abilities, and the calling of someone else, rather than the God-breathed calling that he’s instilled upon them.
8. Too many times I’ve heard throughout the years “this one did this.” “This one said that.”” I’m paraphrasing.” I’m giving my opinions.”
9. Saints, when it’s all tallied up, and all said and done and God has taken you home, what will matter is what you have done for Him, not what someone else has done.
10. They will have their rewards and their time with the Lord. They too will be judged on how they conducted their ministries and callings with the people God entrusted them with.
11. So many pastors, preachers and teachers rely on the sole abilities of someone else’s thinking.
12. As ministers, we cannot have nothing to say that God has given us that is substantial enough that we too should leave a legacy.

I’m not trying to be critical or judgmental. In the day that we live in there are so many people that have been empowered to do great and mighty things only to have turned to become false teachers, captivating on those who never study God’s Word, pray, or adhere to God’s Word.
They come to a conference where these great men and women of God are, and due to the circumstances and the day and age we live in, become as the world,
then try to justify God’s Word because the word they are holding in their hands is so watered down, re-written so many times that even Jesus himself couldn’t understand it, believe it or even look at it.
It’s almost like a dog returning to its vomit. If God’s word said it you need to believe it. You need to trust in it.
You need to get under correct teaching and preaching so that one day you won’t have to look back and say “What have I done with this life?”
If you’ve done what God told you to do, you won’t have to repent or even ask that question. You’ll plainly just know. Now let us look into our message today leaving a legacy.

When I ask you what a legacy is, what’s the first thing you think of?
1. A believer’s legacy is their testimony that has been passed down to the next generation and remembered long after the person has gone to the Lord.
2. it is the emotions that people feel when they hear your name, it’s the stories they tell their children as they tuck them into bed,
3. and it’s the encouragement they receive during tough days as they remember your example, all of which illustrate and illuminate Christ.

Are you even concerned about leaving a legacy?
1. The bible has a lot to say about the importance of leaving a legacy. For example, Psalm 112:1-3: Praise ye the Lord. Blessed is the man that feareth the Lord, that delighteth greatly in his commandments. His seed shall be mighty upon earth: the generation of the upright shall be blessed. Wealth and riches shall be in his house: and his righteousness endureth for ever. If you are a person that walks with the Lord and fulfills His Calling on your life, your righteousness will be remembered, and will be an example to future generations.

Flipping over to the New Testament, we see these very strong words. 1st Timothy 5:8: but if any provide not for his own, and specially for those of his own house, he hath denied the faith, and is worse than an infidel. God is our father, and provides for us His Kids. We are created in His Image, and should be providing and leaving a legacy for our families.

Has God put a call on your life? Are you cultivating it? Are you praying for what he’d have you to do? Not what someone else is telling you to do?
1. God has a call for every one of our lives, with no exceptions. Jeremiah 29:11-12: For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end. Then shall ye call upon me, and ye shall go and pray unto me, and I will hearken unto you. Do you see how these verses go together? Acknowledge that God has a call on your life. Pray about that calling. Walk in it, and He will bless you.
2. We all have a calling to go out and reach the lost for Jesus Christ. Luke 14:23: And the lord said unto the servant, Go out into the highways and hedges, and compel them to come in, that my house may be filled. That is the call of God on every Christian’s life.
3. God’s gifts and callings are irrevocable. He doesn’t take them back. Romans 11:29: For the gifts and calling of God are without repentance. God created you to serve Him in a particular way. If you’ve walked away from your calling, repent and pick it back up again. He didn’t change His Mind. You are still called.

Are souls being saved? Are you praying for souls? Are you evangelizing to souls?
1. As I said earlier, we all are called to reach souls for Jesus Christ. Luke 10:2: Therefore said he unto them, The harvest truly is great, but the labourers are few: pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he would send forth labourers into his harvest. The laborers are few, because so many of us are not reaching out and sharing the gospel. Are you witnessing? Are you praying for your loved ones?

Are you encouraging people to stand to withstand against the wiles of the world that is at enmity with God?
1. We are called by God to encourage and exhort people to walk close to God. Hebrews 10:23-24: Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for he is faithful that promised;) And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: This is one of the reasons we come to church, so we can be taught, equipped, and encouraged in God’s Word. We should encourage one another.
2. We as Christians need to stand against the wiles of the world and the devil, more and more in these last days. Ephesians 6:11-12: Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. We as Christians that are living for, and serving God are engaged in a spiritual battle. Not against people, but spiritual forces set against the kingdom of God.
3. The world is at enmity with God, and if you are a friend of the world, or are like the world, you are an enemy o God! James 4:4: Ye adulterers and adulteresses, know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God. Those are not my words, they are His Words. On the day we put this message together, Mike heard this saying on the radio. “It is hard to find the church in the world today, because there is so much of the world in the church.” We are to stand out and be different from the world, not just like them!
Are you seeking God fervently, diligently? Are you committed, motivated, endued with power from on high for witnessing?
1. We are to seek God fervently, with our whole heart. Jeremiah 29:13: And ye shall seek me, and find me, when ye shall search for me with all your heart. As the song says, the more you seek Him, the more you find Him. The more you find Him, the more you love Him.
2. Are you committed and motivated, putting Him first in all you do? Psalm 37:4-5: Delight thyself also in the Lord: and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart. Commit thy way unto the Lord; trust also in him; and he shall bring it to pass. If you are truly endued with the power from on high, it is to be used for witnessing and for service to others. It’s not just for yourself. Be committed and motivated to win souls, and you will be blessed!

Are you going into nursing homes where it’s not popular? Are you going into assisted living homes where it’s not popular?
1. Are you going into cancer wards? Are you praying for them?
2. You say that you have the enduement of power from on high with the evidence of speaking in tongues?
3. Why are your tongues not there at the cancer wards, in hospice areas, at the hospital? I’ll tell you why.
4. It’s because it’s not popular. It’s not entertaining enough and there’s nobody watching you do anything except God, and He is watching. 1st Peter 3:12: For the eyes of the Lord are over the righteous, and his ears are open unto their prayers: but the face of the Lord is against them that do evil.

Who in the bible who was transformed who at the end of his life left a legacy (OT & NT)
1. Hebrews 11 is a great place to read about people in the Old Testament who left a legacy. Here are just a couple of them. Hebrews 11:4: By faith Abel offered unto God a more excellent sacrifice than Cain, by which he obtained witness that he was righteous, God testifying of his gifts: and by it he being dead yet speaketh. The legacy of Abel is still powerful today, because he put God first and offered God his best, not the leftovers. Do you do this?
2. Abraham, the father of the nation of Israel was obedient and fully trusted in God, and his legacy too lives on today. Hebrews 11:8: By faith Abraham, when he was called to go out into a place which he should after receive for an inheritance, obeyed; and he went out, not knowing whither he went. Would you step out and go to an unknown land if God told you to? Abraham did. He trusted God completely.
3. John the Baptist was faithful to the end, to the point of being martyred for his faith in Jesus. Here’s what Jesus had to say about him. John 5:33-35: He sent unto John, and he bare witness unto the truth. But I receive not testimony from man: but these things I say, that ye might be saved. He was a burning and a shining light: and ye were willing for a season to rejoice in his light. Are you a burning and shining light for Jesus? Will you stand for the truth of the gospel even at risk of it costing your life? This was the legacy John left.
4. The Apostle Paul also left a legacy, and could honestly give this as his testimony. 2nd Timothy 4:7: I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: Will this be your legacy and testimony when you are called home?

Who in the bible started off with a legacy but chose to go a different direction?
1. Ananias and Sapphira were in the church and started off with the intent to sell their property and give the proceeds to the church. However, they went their own way, holding back a portion, & went home early. Acts 5:4-6: Whiles it remained, was it not thine own? and after it was sold, was it not in thine own power? why hast thou conceived this thing in thine heart? thou hast not lied unto men, but unto God. And Ananias hearing these words fell down, and gave up the ghost: and great fear came on all them that heard these things. And the young men arose, wound him up, and carried him out, and buried him. The same fate met his wife Sapphira when she was confronted later on that same day.

What did Paul have to say about the course and direction that we need to stay?
1. After devoting an entire chapter to those who left a legacy of faith, Paul gives us this encouragement. Hebrews 12;1: Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, Whatever is keeping you from leaving a godly legacy in this life, you need to lay it aside with His Help, and run the race He has called you to run.

What was the message of Jesus to all of us from beginning to end, from life to death?
1. The message of Jesus to you and I who know Him is to be His Witnesses! Acts 1:8: But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth. For you and me, we are to be witnesses to him both in Waterboro, and in all of New England, and unto the uttermost part of the earth. This is His Will for us today.

Story: Leaving a Legacy
1. I once heard of a man on his death bed, surrounded by his family, including children and grandchildren.
2. With his last conscious thoughts and words, he encouraged them to follow the teachings of Jesus.
3. He explained that he was about to go and be with Jesus; he looked forward to the day when all the followers of Jesus would gather around His throne.
4. Looking at each one individually, he said, “And I want you and you and you to be there!”
5. What would you say to your family, your children and grandchildren, if you had the opportunity to speak to them just before your passing?

There are many books and journals available that encourage us to “leave a legacy” for our children and grandchildren by recording favorite stories about our lives, family events, meaningful conversations….
But when I asked myself, “What legacy do I want to leave?,” it was clear that I wanted my children to know what I have learned about the teachings of Jesus, His Word, and its truths.
Although I might hope for the opportunity to do this in person on my deathbed, I realized that most people are not afforded this accommodation;
I should not presume to be one who would be. For me, it was clear that now was the time to collect my most treasured thoughts.
How about you? What truths do you value most? How have you communicated them to those you love?
If you had only a few sentences left to speak, what would you say? Most likely if you are hearing this, you have more than a few sentences left.
Now might be the right time to collect and record your thoughts. But you say, “I am not a Bible scholar, not a recognized teacher of truth, who am I to do this?”
If you are a follower of Jesus, you have a story to tell, beginning with how Jesus came into your life.
What is your story? How has Jesus made it possible? You have a responsibility to Jesus and to those you love to tell your story.
Let’s be about sharing our testimony and living for God every day, so that one day, people will look back and remember the life you lived for Christ.

Conclusion
1. Do you understand the message that I’ve given you today?
2. Does it make you think about who you are, what God made you to be, and have you done anything at all?
3. If there are regrets now, it’s time we prayed and changed the course before your life comes to a close. What is your legacy?

Prepare Ye The Way of the Lord for Such a Time as THis

March 11, 2024 The Greatest Gift

Introduction
1. You and I live in a day and age where we need to be on high alert. We’re not living in the same time as 20 years ago. We’re living in a very different world and climate.
2. Christians at one time were always the majority, and now we are quickly becoming the minority. You and I need to take our rightful position and place now more than ever. Our rights depend on it and our freedom all the more. Galatians 5:1: Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage.
3. A new face is being put on our country, the land of the free and the home of the brave. You and I live in what the bible calls the Laodicean Church Age, civil rights of common people. Revelation 3:17-18: Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked: I counsel thee to buy of me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear; and anoint thine eyes with eyesalve,

that thou mayest see. It seems as though people have the right to do whatever they choose. We’ve never seen such violence in all of our lives as there is now, and only threatening to have more to come.

As we’re getting closer to the return of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, you and I need to prepare ourselves in every way that the bible describes.
Freedom more than ever will now come with a price. As we look into our brief message today, you and I need to prepare for such a time as this.

Do you know what to prepare for? If you don’t I’m prepared to give you what the bible says about how to prepare yourself to live out all the days of your life under the shadow of God’s Wings. (leading to the coming of the Lord)
1. First and foremost, you can never truly prepare for what is to come unless you are born again. John 3:3: Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God. Is your name written in the Lamb’s Book of Life? Do you know for sure that when you leave this world, you are heaven bound?
2. Are you spending time in God’s Word, to know what His Will is for your life? Psalm 119:10-11: With my whole heart have I sought thee:

O let me not wander from thy commandments. Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee. If you crack open that book every day, God will prepare you for what the day has in store. He will show you what He wants you to do.

Do you seek the Lord in prayer with your whole heart every day? Jeremiah 29:13: And ye shall seek me, and find me, when ye shall search for me with all your heart. Whatever is going on in the world or in your life, seek the Lord first. Don’t neglect spending daily time with Him in His Word and prayer.
Are you in church, fellowshipping with God’s People and getting fed God’s Word, letting people pray with and for you? Hebrews 10:24-25: And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching. This is not a time for home Baptists. Lone rangers will never make it. We need each other. We need to be in church so we can learn, grow, and function as the family of God.

You and I must study God’s Word to know the course of action and direction he’d have you and I to take.
1. God does not hide His Will from us if we are seeking Him. He will clearly show us through His Word. Isaiah 30:21: And thine ears shall hear a word behind thee, saying, This is the way, walk ye in it, when ye turn to the right hand, and when ye turn to the left. If we’re studying, and if we’re seeking Him, He will be faithful to lead us and prepare us for all that life has in store.
2. If we are studying God’s Word, His Spirit will lead us and guide us. Jesus says this. John 16:13: Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come. Are you tuned into the Holy Spirit and asking Him to illuminate God’s Word to your heart and mind. He is faithful.

You and I must prepare physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually as our world is changing rapidly before our eyes.
1. Here is a passage that can help us to prepare for uncertain and changing times. Take a look at Hebrews 12:1-2: Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, (this refers to the faithful patriarchs in chapter 11), let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, (We all have one sin or another that we have struggled with, for example smoking, drinking, drugs, over-eating etc. We need to always seek to be free of these things with God’s Help.) and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, (The Christian life is a type of race and we all need to run the race and be all we can be for Him.) Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God. Are you confessing and repenting of sins in your life? Are you endeavoring to persevere and run the race, always keeping our eyes focused on Jesus?
2. We need to live our lives as a living sacrifice to God, not living for our own agendas, but for His. Not being like the rest of the world, but different and set apart. Romans 12:1-2: I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God. As you pray, study, and worship, you will be transformed and become more and more like Jesus and less like the rest of the world. They will see something different. They will see you having peace even when the world is in chaos.

What have you done to prepare yourself? Are you reaching out to your family, friends, encouraging people to come to church, sharing your testimony with those in our world who desperately need a touch from the Almighty.
1. Are you reaching out and inviting people to come to church? Mark 16:14-15: Afterward he appeared unto the eleven as they sat at meat, and upbraided them with their unbelief and hardness of heart, because they believed not them which had seen him after he was risen. And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. The most important job of every Christian is to go out and lead people to Jesus, but too often, we sit in the churches and wait for the lost to come in. He said go out and compel them to come in, not sit and hope they’ll come in.
2. Are you sharing your testimony. People can argue about many things related to our faith, but they can never take away your testimony. Revelation 19:10: And I fell at his feet to worship him. And he said unto me, See thou do it not: I am thy fellowservant, and of thy brethren that have the testimony of Jesus: worship God: for the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy. When you share the testimony of what Jesus has done in your life, you are sharing the prophetic Word of God that will bring life to those that hear.

The world is at enmity with God. But God loves the people in the world. You and I are the only vehicle that he has to bring the message of salvation to a world that is hopelessly lost without Jesus.
1. As I said, the world is at enmity with God, and anyone who is a friend of the world is an enemy of God. James 4:4: Ye adulterers and adulteresses, know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God. We need to love the people, and go out and reach them for Jesus, but we are never to be a friend of the world.

Saints, we need to rise up, press in, press forward to the mark of the higher calling. (scripture)
1. Let’s look at what the Apostle Paul had to say about this. It will be a guide for you as you live the Christian life in the changing world in which we live. Philippians 3:13-14: Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. What Paul says here is what you and I should do every day. We should first forget those things which are behind. We can learn from the mistakes of our past, but after that forget them! Move forward!
2. Paul then says that he reaches forth unto those things which are before him. If you’re driving down the road, always looking in the rear view mirror, you’re bound to get into an accident. Be like Paul and press the accelerator forward, and press on to all God has for you.

We must study and pray and share the salvation message to everyone we come in contact with.
1. We must study God’s Word regularly. 2nd Timothy 2:15: Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. We study to show ourselves approved not to man but to God.
2. When we study, we are a workman that needs not to be ashamed,
3. for the gospel of Jesus Christ is the power unto our salvation. When we study we can then rightly divide the Word of Truth to those who so desperately need to know Him.
4. We must pray and talk to God about every area of our lives. 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. Do you have a place in your home where you can just be alone with God and talk to Him with no distractions? Make sure to set a time every day when you can talk to God and let Him talk to you through His Word.
5. We need to share the salvation message with those who have not given their hearts to Jesus. Luke 14:23: And the lord said unto the servant, Go out into the highways and hedges, and compel them to come in, that my house may be filled. We all have a part to play in seeing souls come into the kingdom. We’re all to do the work of an evangelist. There are no exceptions.

God has been building a testimony in you since the day you were born. I encourage you to share your testimony.
1. You never know the life that you’ll have changed until you get to heaven. Be not only a community changer, but a world changer.

Story – A Relationship with Jesus
1. In metro Detroit, Stephen, one of our chaplains, encountered Brad, a homeowner in his late 40s distressed over the effects of recent torrential rains that caused widespread flooding.
2. When the chaplain asked if he had a relationship with Jesus Christ, he said he did not but needed spiritual help.
3. “I’ve never heard that Jesus wants a relationship with me.” Stephen then shared the Gospel with Brad, who followed along intently.
4. Brad indicated he wanted to begin a relationship with the Lord, and he prayed to surrender his life to Christ.
5. Chaplains also met a homeowner named Arezo* who invited them into her house.
6. She and her family were Muslim and had migrated to Pakistan and later to the United States. The chaplains guided the conversation to the Gospel.
7. Arezo told them she was familiar with Jesus but did not have a relationship with Him.
8. When they asked about the peace in her life, she responded that she had none.
9. They shared how Jesus could give her His peace, and she could have the assurance of eternal life.
10. Their discussion drew tears as Arezo acknowledged she needed that in her life.
11. They shared the Good News with her, showing how Scripture points to the Lord Jesus Christ.
12. When confronted with her need for forgiveness, Arezo said she wanted to pray to accept Christ into her life as her Savior and Lord.
13. Chaplains rejoiced with her, gave her a new Bible, and bookmarked it at the Gospel of John for her to begin reading.
14. You too can lead those you come in contact with to a loving savior who will embrace them into His Family.

Conclusion
1. Prepare for such a time as this.

Lord Give Me Discernment

November 30, 2022 The Greatest Gift

Introduction
1. When I was starting off many years ago, and first became saved in 1981, I had some pretty good discernment, at least worldly discernment, as I owned my own companies and could pretty much figure people out as soon as I would meet them.
2. When I became a Christian, I was taught something different, a more intuitive type of discernment. Something more than I had ever known. My mind had to be transformed.
3. My old thinking had to pass away so that God could renew my mind with the discernment that He wanted me to have. It was very different.
4. In the world, your discernment is the things that surround you that are immediate, but in the Spirit, they can be immediate. They can be past, or they can be future.
5. As I began to press into God and know what He wanted for me in this life as a Christian, I was baffled.
6. Many times when I thought I heard the Lord’s voice, it was still my voice until one day I had a vision and I truly believed I had heard the voice of the Lord about how a particular job was going to go and how things were going to work out for me.
7. It was almost like a complete forecast of exactly what I needed to discern, and I had the correct answer, but it was not the answer within me. It was the answer that came from God through a vision that shocked me but I knew it was Him.
8. How did I know it was him? Because there was this presence that came over me like I had never known before. In the vision, I knew exactly what I needed to do and what to say.
9. It just didn’t seem like my thinking, or even something I had ever thought about before I knew the Lord, so I knew that God was transforming me and giving me a vision and discerning spirit.
10. Today I’ve drawn in to that vision that God has given me. It’s like when I want to know something or figure out something, or have the best advice I can possibly give to someone, I will lay down.
11. God will begin to bring pictures to me of the situation or person, and then there will be an answer to the question I asked the Lord.
12. This comes with drawing close to the Lord. This comes from studying God’s word and communicating to him. This is how you and I can live a whole and fruitful life with the Lord if you will talk to Him.
13. It’s not always just talking audibly. It’s talking to Him through the Word and allowing Him to speak back. It is allowing him to take complete control and surrendering completely to Him.
14. When you have done this, He will give you the discerning will, spirit, and answers. Now let us go into our study.

What is Discernment? If I had to ask you today, what this would be, what would be your answer?
1. Discernment is the ability to obtain sharp perceptions or to judge well.
2. In judgment, discernment can be psychological, moral or aesthetic in nature.
3. The process of discernment within judgment involves going past the mere perception of something and making nuanced judgments about its properties or qualities.

What is the difference between discernment, and a discerning spirit?
1. Discernment is being able to differentiate between good and bad, right and wrong. 1^st Kings 3:9: Give therefore thy servant an understanding heart to judge thy people, that I may discern between good and bad: for who is able to judge this thy so great a people? We should all pray for God to give us understanding and discernment.
2. A discerning spirit, is the ability to discern what is of the Spirit of God, and what is not. 1st Corinthians 2:14: But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned. If you are born-again, the closer you get to God, and the more time you spend walking and talking with Him, the more of a discerning spirit ou will have.
How might one receive a discerning mind? Is this something you would like to have?
1. One way you can have a discerning mind, is by renewing your mind through praying and studying God’s Word. Romans 12:2: And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove (or discern) what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God. When you spend time in prayer and the Word every day, you are transformed, and have more of the discerning Mind of Christ.
2. Discernment comes through obtaining wisdom, which comes from God. James 1:5: If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him. We must ask in faith, as the next verse encourages us to ask in faith with nothing wavering.

Who in the bible had a discerning spirit or a form of Discernment? In the bible, we often see words such as wisdom or understanding, in place of discernment.
1. Solomon was a man blessed with wisdom and discernment. 1st Kings 4:29: And God gave Solomon wisdom and understanding exceeding much, and largeness of heart, even as the sand that is on the sea shore. Solomon had asked God to give him wisdom. Because he asked for this, rather than wealth or other things, God blessed Him greatly.
2. We see a reference to men of discernment or understanding in Ezra 8:16: Then sent I for Eliezer, for Ariel, for Shemaiah, and for Elnathan, and for Jarib, and for Elnathan, and for Nathan, and for Zechariah, and for Meshullam, chief men; also for Joiarib, and for Elnathan, men of understanding. These eleven men listed had discernment, wisdom and understanding.
3. We see characteristics like wisdom, knowledge, and understanding in Daniel and others of the Children of Israel. Daniel 1:3 and 4: And the king spake unto Ashpenaz the master of his eunuchs, that he should bring certain of the children of Israel, and of the king’s seed, and of the princes; Children in whom was no blemish, but well favoured, and skilful in all wisdom, and cunning in knowledge, and understanding science, and such as had ability in them to stand in the king’s palace, and whom they might teach the learning and the tongue of the Chaldeans. These children of Israel were blessed of God and got the attention of the king because of these qualities.

Have you ever had a vision that also gave you the answers inside the vision for yourself or someone else?
1. God used visions and dreams to guide Joseph, when Jesus was born. In this first instance, Joseph had found out that Mary was pregnant, and was going to divorce her. Matthew 1:20: But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost. Joseph was pondering what he should do, and God gave the answer in a dream.
2. God used a dream to bring a warning to Joseph. Matthew 2:13: And when they were departed, behold, the angel of the Lord appeareth to Joseph in a dream, saying, Arise, and take the young child and his mother, and flee into Egypt, and be thou there until I bring thee word: for Herod will seek the young child to destroy him. God used a dream to give Joseph discernment to know that he needed to take his family to Egypt. Later, in another dream, God showed him that it was safe to come back.

What did Jesus say in regards to discernment?
1. Jesus talks about having discernment in John 7:24: Judge not according to the appearance, but judge righteous judgment. Discernment is being able to look beyond the appearance and judge what is of God’s righteousness, or not..
2. If you draw close to God, His Spirit will lead you into all truth, and show you things to come. John 16:13: Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come. When I spend time in prayer, the Spirit of God speaks to me about people and situations, and shows me things that will soon come to pass.
3. Jesus stresses the importance of discerning the times that we are in. Matthew 16:3: And in the morning, It will be foul weather to day: for the sky is red and lowering. O ye hypocrites, ye can discern the face of the sky; but can ye not discern the signs of the times? Jesus is coming soon. Just look at the news and everything going on around the world today. Are you ready for that trumpet to sound, and the Lord to snatch us home? It could happen before the end of this service.

Conclusion
1. Would you like a discerning spirit?
2. Are you willing to pray for discernment?
3. Will you read and study God’s Word to show yourself approved and know that all approval comes from God Himself in every desire and hope and every final conclusion?

Traps, Trials & Snares

November 30, 2022 The Greatest Gift

Introduction
1. I remember many years ago, having these friends or so-called friends that were in the ministry. I remember my ministry was just getting off the ground when this woman had an interest in me while I was married.
2. She was always very friendly until one day she came out and told me that she was in love with me. I was married at the time and I knew that I had to get away from these people who were professing to be Christians.
3. My ministry was just getting started and I could feel the trap, the trials and the snares, though the Lord protected me.
4. I was able to tell the person I wasn’t interested in any way, shape or form and that I was very dedicated to my wife, and she needed to get counseling.
5. The devil is always out there like a roaring lion. to seek and devour anyone he can who’s trying to do something for the Lord Jesus Christ. 1st Peter 5:8: Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:
6. I remember that time like it was yesterday. It was devastating. It showed me how quickly the trap can be set and how subtle the devil can be to ensnare you, and the consequences and trials that you would go through to come out alive on the other end.
7. You and I need to remember that when you begin to do something, the enemy will be right there. Rest assured of it, with his legion of demons to destroy you.
8. This is why I preach on a consistent basis that you must be prayed up. You must be studied up and have the full armor of God on 24/7 because when you least expect it, the devil is there to entrap you, ensnare you, and then laugh at you as you face the consequences and the trials that come before you.
9. What about you this morning? Have you ever been involved in something that has entrapped, ensnared and brought you into trials?
10. If you have, you know exactly what I’m talking about. Now let us start our study today.

What is a trap?
1. For the purposes of our study, a trap is an ambush; a stratagem; any device by which men or other animals may be caught unawares.
2. Here are a couple of scriptures to demonstrate what a trap is. Psalm 69:22: Let their table become a snare before them: and that which should have been for their welfare, let it become a trap. The devil can take what we think is good for us, and make it a trap to get uss off track.
3. The enemy uses people to entrap us as we see in Jeremiah 5:26: For among my people are found wicked men: they lay wait, as he that setteth snares; they set a trap, they catch men. Even among God’s People, there are those the enemy can use to entrap us, so we always need to be prayed up and have discernment.

What does it mean to be ensnared?
1. It means to be captured in, or involved as in, a snare. Synonyms are; entrap, entangle, and enmesh. A snare is another word for a trap.

Why are there consequences and trials we must go through?
1. When you fall into a trap and make a mistake, God will forgive you, but there will still be consequences
2. David is a prime example of this. He fell into a trap and made sinful choices. He wasforgiven but had consequences for the rest of his life. . 2nd Samuel 12:10-12: Now therefore the sword shall never depart from thine house; because thou hast despised me, and hast taken the wife of Uriah the Hittite to be thy wife. Thus saith the Lord, Behold, I will raise up evil against thee out of thine own house, and I will take thy wives before thine eyes, and give them unto thy neighbour, and he shall lie with thy wives in the sight of this sun. For thou didst it secretly: but I will do this thing before all Israel, and before the sun. When someone commits a crime, and later becomes a Christian, they will be loved and forgiven by God, but will still face the consequences for what they did.

Why do we need to study God’s Word?
1. When we study God’s Word and hide it in our hearts, we will be aware of the traps and snares, and sin against God less and less. Psalm 119:11: Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee. The more time you spend with someone, the more you know who they are, what they like and don’t like. When you study God’s Word you become more like Him.
2. You won’t stumble into a trap if you have the lamp in front of you. Psalm 119:105:Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path. At our house we have traps near the trash to trap any rodents that try to rip the bags open. If Mike doesn’t heed my word, he could spring the trap himself and get in trouble.

Why is it important to have on the Armor of God?
1. Every piece of the armor is needed to fend off the attacks of the enemy. Ephesians 6:11: Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. Here are a couple of items, and why they are so important.
2. We need our helmets to protect our heads, particularly our minds, and we need the sword to go on the offensive against the devil. Ephesians 6:17: And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God: The place where the devil attacks primarily is our minds. One of the tactics he uses is to try to make us doubt our salvation. When He puts those doubts in your mind, you can use your sword which is the Word of God. We can never lose our salvation! Once we have truly asked Jesus to come into our hearts and be our Lord and Savior, we are SEALED forever as one of his.

Why is it important to stay prayed up?
1. We should always be praying and making our requests known to God. Philippians 4:6: Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. Notice it talks about thanksgiving in this verse. We should have prayers of thanksgiving and praise along with our requests.
2. If you spend time in prayer, God is with you and will answer you. We have this promise in Psalm 145:18: he Lord is nigh unto all them that call upon him, to all that call upon him in truth. There’s an old song that says that He’s as close as the mention of His Name. Call upon Him and He will show up.
3. We should pray always, not just for ourselves, but for all of the saints. Ephesians 6:18: Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints; The success of the Little House is that we let Jesus in every service, and we persevere in faith for one another, and God answers.

Who in the bible was ensnared?
1. Sampson was ensnared by Delilah. Judges 16:4-5 and 16-17: And it came to pass afterward, that he loved a woman in the valley of Sorek, whose name was Delilah. And the lords of the Philistines came up unto her, and said unto her, Entice him, and see wherein his great strength lieth, and by what means we may prevail against him, that we may bind him to afflict him; and we will give thee every one of us eleven hundred pieces of silver. And it came to pass, when she pressed him daily with her words, and urged him, so that his soul was vexed unto death; That he told her all his heart, and said unto her, There hath not come a razor upon mine head; for I have been a Nazarite unto God from my mother’s womb: if I be shaven, then my strength will go from me, and I shall become weak, and be like any other man. The enemy will often use the closest ones to you to ensnare you as was the case here.

Who in the bible faced many trials?
1. The Bible tells us that David grew increasingly frustrated from his constant running and hiding, living in caves and surviving on whatever food his men could find or what those loyal to him would give. Psalm 142:1-2: I cried unto the Lord with my voice; with my voice unto the Lord did I make my supplication. I poured out my complaint before him; I shewed before him my trouble. Even though King David struggled mightily, he never remained in this state for long, as he still concludes every psalm praising God and giving Him glory.
2. Moses also faced trials. One example is when God was testing Moses and his people to see how they would react at having no water. The people of Israel murmured against Moses, wondering what they should drink. He turned to God for help in his struggle, and God delivered. Exodus 15:24-25: And the people murmured against Moses, saying, What shall we drink? And he cried unto the Lord; and the Lord shewed him a tree, which when he had cast into the waters, the waters were made sweet: there he made for them a statute and an ordinance, and there he proved them, Then afterwards, they came to Elim, where the Bible tells us there were 12 springs and 70 palm trees — plenty of water to go around.

What’s the outcome of someone who is disobedient, and chooses to go his way, and cloaks it with the flavor of Christianity?
1. Adam and Eve were the first to disobey, and we’ve dealt with the outcome ever since. Genesis 3:17-19: And unto Adam he said, Because thou hast hearkened unto the voice of thy wife, and hast eaten of the tree, of which I commanded thee, saying, Thou shalt not eat of it: cursed is the ground for thy sake; in sorrow shalt thou eat of it all the days of thy life;

Thorns also and thistles shall it bring forth to thee; and thou shalt eat the herb of the field; 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. When we go our own way instead of being obedient to God, everthing becomes harder. We will face trials when we’re obedient, but when we are not, we have greater struggles.

The Apostle Paul gives a list of sins here to avoid, because those who practice them will not inherit the Kingdom of God. Galatians 5:19-21: Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies, Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God. These works of the flesh Paul describes, are in disobedience to God. If you find that you practice any of these, you might want to examine whether you are truly born-again.

Who in the bible was trapped but succeeded through prayer and God’s Word?
1. The Bible tells us that Satan was trying to sift Peter like wheat. Luke 22:31-32: And the Lord said, Simon, Simon, behold, Satan hath desired to have you, that he may sift you as wheat: But I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not: and when thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren. This was just before Jesus warned Peter that he would deny Jesus. He did deny the Lord. Then after Jesus died, he went back to his old lifestyle, but when Jesus rose from the dead, Peter was restored, and we know He was instrumental in the establishing of the early church.

Conclusion 3 questions
1. Are you doing anything today that would make a difference to the devil and his gang or are you going along not making any waves, laying on your laurels because you’ve been saved?
2. Are you studying God’s Word?
3. Are you making a difference in the lives of others?
4. Do you have a discerning spirit to know when the enemy’s trying to trick, deceive, and destroy you?

Let’s Stop the Insanity & Go with the Facts

November 30, 2022 The Greatest Gift

Introduction
1. I remember many years ago, sitting in a congregation having a conversation with another member.
2. He was making these vary absurd comments regarding some things he had been doing.
3. I remember saying to him “Some of these things that you’re saying don’t add up and there are no facts to support them biblically.” He kept continuing to go on and on with what he believed to be sane.
4. I remember a couple of these things very vividly, such as “Why does God want us to be fishermen, go out and waste our time with people who don’t even want to hear us because they don’t agree with what we’re saying?”
5. My answer to him was “Broad is the way and narrow is the gate” and “Many are called and few are chosen
6. Jesus says this in Matthew 7:13: Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: Enter at the strait or narrow gate. That is Jesus Christ. Not all paths lead to Heaven. We are called to be fishers of men, leading them through the narrow or strait gate.
7. Jesus also says this in Matthew 22:14: For many are called, but few are chosen. Jesus is calling whosoever will, to follow Him. The chosen are those who choose to follow and obey Him.
8. The second thing I remember this man saying to me and others was “What’s wrong with having a few drinks every now and then, and hanging out with people who may not be going the Christian way but are still our friends? They really don’t want to hear the Gospel but I like them as friends. They wouldn’t come to church as I had asked them many times. I don’t see the difference.”
9. He said “We’re all worldly Christians in some sense. Why don’t we just be honest and live our lives the way we know the best we can? Jesus will still love us, won’t he?
10. We are saved? It seems so legalistic to try to tell people how to live their lives. Why don’t we mind our own business and just be Christians and loving?”

What does the bible say about worldly living?
1. We’re told not to conform to the world, but to be different. Romans 12:2: And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God. How is our mind renewed? It is renewed as we pray, study the Word, and worship God. As we do these things we are transformed.
2. We’re also told that friendship with the world is enmity with God. James 4:4: Ye adulterers and adulteresses, know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? Whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God. This does not mean we are to cut ourselves off completely from unsaved people, and never associate with them. No, it means that the people we hang out with on a day-to-day basis should be godly people. They should be brothers and sisters in Christ.
3. We are given a higher standard as born-again Christians. Matthew 5:20: For I say unto you, That except your righteousness shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven. You and I are to be different, and set apart from the people of the world. As we submit to God, His Spirit will transform us and we will be more like Jesus.

What does the bible teach about looking on the things of others more than ourselves?
1. We are called as Christians to put others before ourselves. PHilippians 2:4: Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others. You may have heard this acronym for JOY. An acronym is an abbreviation formed from the initial letters of other words and pronounced as a word.It is Jesus first, Others next, and Yourself last.
2. Along this same line, we are to esteem others higher or better than ourselves. Philippians 2:3: Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. The term vainglory in this verse is defined as , “empty glory” or “pride,” nearly akin to vanity in the modern sense.

What does God say about the standard of living that we should stand by?
1. Of all the commandments given by God, these are the two most important. Mark 12:30 and 31: And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength: this is the first commandment. And the second is like, namely this, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. There is none other commandment greater than these. This goes back to the JOY acronym I mentioned earlier. We are to love God first and foremost, then we are to love our neighbors as ourselves.
2. Similarly, we are called to seek God and His Kingdom first, and then everything we need will be added to us. Matthew 6:33: But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. Prior to this verse, Jesus was telling us that we don’t need to worry about what we will eat, drink, or wear, because God provides for all our needs. Instead, we are to seek Him first.
3. Finally, let’s flip back to the Old Testament. In Micah 6:8: He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the Lord require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God? There are many verses about how you and I should live as Christians, but these three sum up God’s standard of living quite well.

What is insanity?
1. Insanity is defined as a derangement of the mind or extreme foolishness – a foolish or senseless action, policy, statement, etc.
2. As Christians, one of the things we have been promised is a sound mind. 2nd Timothy 1:7: For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind. As Christians, we have God’s Power, Love, and the Mind of Christ.

What is the motto for us to live by and what are the facts?
1. Our motto here is rescued, saved, and heaven bound, and God wants us to succeed more than we want to succeed ourselves. Here are the facts.
2. We have all gone astray and need to be rescued from our sinful ways. Isaiah 53:6: All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the Lord hath laid on him the iniquity of us all. This applies to all of us. We have all strayed from God’s Will.
3. Because God is holy and can’t look upon sin, the wages of sin is death, but Jesus paid the penalty for our sin. Romans 6:23: For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. Imagine going to the court house to pay a steep fine, and then learning someone has paid it for you. Jesus paid your sin debt in full.
4. Because of what Jesus did, you are a new creature, and are called to live a new, godly life. 2nd Corinthians 5:17: Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. As a Christian, the old sinful ways pass away as you submit to Him, and all things become new. You are transformed!

How do people come up with these absurd statements when they’re in church every week and the pastor preaches on how we should live as Christians?
1. They are blind and the scales haven’t fallen from their eyes. John 12:40: He hath blinded their eyes, and hardened their heart; that they should not see with their eyes, nor understand with their heart, and be converted, and I should heal them. You can be in church and hear the message, but it has to reach the heart and God must give you the understanding.
2. They are hearers of the Word only, and not doers of the Word. James 1:22: But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves. I don’t want to stand up here week after week bringing God’s Word, and have it fall on deaf ears! We need to not just hear, but do what God’s Word says.

Are people being led astray by you when you don’t study God’s Word and just paraphrase what everyone says?
1. We are called to study God’s Word. It’s great to read and listen to the Word, but we should study it. 2nd Timothy 2:15: Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. Let’s take a few moments to break down this verse.
2. We are to study, not to be approved by men, but by God.
3. We are to be workmen, not working our way to heaven, but working to know who God is, and how we are to live as His Children.
4. If we’re studying God’s Word, we need not be ashamed. Romans 1:16: For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to everyone that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek. God’s word is powerful. When we study it, we can rightly divide the Word of Truth, and it will give life and power to the hearer.
5. We should never paraphrase God’s Word. This waters it down and changes the meaning. Matthew 4:4: But he answered and said, It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God. This is why in here we recommend the 1611 King James bible, and encourage you to stay away from other translations.

Conclusion
1. Are you truly living and breathing God’s Word?
2. Are you allowing the Holy Spirit to lead and guide you into all truth and understanding? Are you trusting God? Are you living by faith?
3. Are you writing a new bible? One that fits your agenda?
4. Are you winning souls? Are you being the fisherman God wants you to be. Are you sharing your testimony with everyone you come in contact with?
5. My word to you and to anyone and everyone, let’s stop the insanity and let’s go with the facts!

Do You Have A Dream?

September 9, 2020 The Greatest Gift

What is a Dream?
1. a series of thoughts, images, and sensations occurring in a person’s mind during sleep.
2. a cherished aspiration, ambition, or ideal.
3. Dreams are often used by God to communicate His Will, and what his calling on your life is. Acts 2:17 says And it shall come to pass in the last days, saith God, I will pour out of my Spirit upon all flesh: and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams:
4. Numbers 12:6: And he said, Hear now my words: If there be a prophet among you, I the Lord will make myself known unto him in a vision, and will speak unto him in a dream.

Who do we know that dreamed in the Bible? There arer countless examples of how God used dreams in the bible. Let’s look at a few examples.
1. Abimelech in Genesis 20:3: But God came to Abimelech in a dream by night, and said to him, Behold, thou art but a dead man, for the woman which thou hast taken; for she is a man’s wife.
2. Jacob dreamed about Jesus in Genesis 28:12: And he dreamed, and behold a ladder set up on the earth, and the top of it reached to heaven: and behold the angels of God ascending and descending on it.
3. Joseph dreamed of his brothers and parents bowing down to him in Genesis 37:9: And he dreamed yet another dream, and told it his brethren, and said, Behold, I have dreamed a dream more; and, behold, the sun and the moon and the eleven stars made obeisance to me.
4. The butler and baker had dreams that Joseph interpreted. Genesis 40:5: And they dreamed a dream both of them, each man his dream in one night, each man according to the interpretation of his dream, the butler and the baker of the king of Egypt, which were bound in the prison.
5. Joseph reminds the butler and baker that God interprets dreams. Genesis 40 Verse 8: And they said unto him, We have dreamed a dream, and there is no interpreter of it. And Joseph said unto them, Do not interpretations belong to God? tell me them, I pray you.
6. Solomon had a dream from God in 1st Kings 3:5: In Gibeon the Lord appeared to Solomon in a dream by night: and God said, Ask what I shall give thee.
7. Joseph, Mary’s husband in Matthew 1:20: But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost.
8. Herod’s servants in Matthew 2:12-13: And being warned of God in a dream that they should not return to Herod, they departed into their own country another way.And when they were departed, behold, the angel of the Lord appeareth to Joseph in a dream, saying, Arise, and take the young child and his mother, and flee into Egypt, and be thou there until I bring thee word: for Herod will seek the young child to destroy him.

Do you want to see your dream come to pass?
1. If you have a dream, pray about it. Submit it to God, and share it with people you are close to. Habakkuk 2:2-3: And the Lord answered me, and said, Write the vision, and make it plain upon tables, that he may run that readeth it. For the vision is yet for an appointed time, but at the end it shall speak, and not lie: though it tarry, wait for it; because it will surely come, it will not tarry.
2. Remember that the dream God gives is irrevocable. He doesn’t change His Mind about it.Romans 11:29: For the gifts and calling of God are without repentance.
3. As you continue to submit your dreams to God, spend time in His Word, and let Him teach you, guide you, and prepare you for the fulfillment of the dream.Romans 10:17: So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.

Are you just acknowledging a dream, or knowing it is God’s dream for your life?
1. As you think about your dreams, visions, and desires, remember that God has thoughts, and plans for your life, for your good, and for His Glory.Jeremiah 29:11: For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.
2. If your dream is of God, it will line up with His Word. Be confident in it. Commit it to Him, and He will bring it to pass.2nd Timothy 1:12: For the which cause I also suffer these things: nevertheless I am not ashamed: for I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that he is able to keep that which I have committed unto him against that day.

Do you believe a dream is from God? Here are a couple of ways you can know your dream has come from God.
1. Information from Heaven:You can tell if it’s a God-dream if it contains some element of the supernatural. There is information in the dream that obviously comes from heaven – something you wouldn’t ordinarily know or that points to a future time. Jesus said that the Holy Spirit would help us by ‘speaking of things to come’ (John 6:13-14) and that when we call to God, he will tell us ‘unsearchable things we do not know’ (Jeremiah 33:3).
2. It is Part of an Ongoing Conversation:Secondly, we recognize God’s voice in a dream because it is part of an ongoing conversation. Dreams are one of the ways God speaks to us but it’s not the only way. It’s just one mode of communication he uses in the context of an ongoing relationship. So if you have a dream you think may be from God, ask yourself, what has God been speaking to me about lately? What prayers have I been praying?

What are you willing to do to see it come true?
1. Whatever your dream, remember that for it to fully succeed, the Lord must be the one who is in charge of bringing it about. Maybe your dream is to preach in a small church, or to sing and preach to thousands around the world. The Lord must be the one building the ministry.Psalms 127:1: Except the Lord build the house, they labour in vain that build it: except the Lord keep the city, the watchman waketh but in vain.
2. As you submit your dream to God, trust Him with it. Acknowledge Him in everything you do, and He will direct your path, right to the fulfillment of that dream He gave you.Proverbs 3:5-6: Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.
3. Proverbs 16:3: Commit thy works unto the Lord, and thy thoughts shall be established.
4. While waiting for your dream to come to pass, there will be seasons where your faith is tested. God is giving you patience, and sharpening the skills you will need when the dream comes to pass.James 1:3-4: Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing.

Conclusion:
1. We’d like to have your comments and hear about your dreams and what God has done, and what you have done to see it through.

Standing Alone

Standing Alone

Psalm 23:4

Facing your Fears

Leaving a Legacy

Prepare Ye The Way of the Lord for Such a Time as THis

Lord Give Me Discernment

Traps, Trials & Snares

Let’s Stop the Insanity & Go with the Facts

Do You Have A Dream?

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