Nail Scarred Hands

Should have been my footsteps
Trailing to Calvary
Should have been me instead of you
But you went any way
Now it seems as if my own hands
Were two of the hands that killed this man
Now every time I think of doing wrong
I think of His nail scarred hands

Now here was a man that knew no sin
There I was sin to the core
He didn’t care where I had been
He loved me anyway
Then he stretched out his sweet hands
Then he died for all the sins of the world
Now every time I think of doing wrong
I think of His nail scarred hands

Nail scarred hands
Nail scarred hands
Every time I feel like I just can’t win
I think of his nail scarred hands
Nail scarred hands
Every time I feel like I can’t go on
I think of his nail scarred hands
Now every time I feel like giving up
I think of His nail scarred hands

Should have been me suffering
Wondering where all my friends had gone
Hanging there all alone, Hanging all day long
Even your Father had to look away
Cause you were carrying all the sins of the world
Now every time I think of doing wrong
I think of his nail scarred hands

Nail scarred hands
Nail scarred hands
Every time I feel like I just can’t win
I think of his nail scarred hands
Nail scarred hands
Every time I feel like I can’t go on
I think of his nail scarred hands
Now every time I feel like giving up
I think of His nail scarred hands

Click on the you tube video in the right column to listen to “Nail Scarred Hands” by Debra Henderson

JESUS Is The WAY! The TRUTH And The Life!

JESUS Is The WAY! The TRUTH And The Life!

Can I be certain that the Bible is true? How many ways is it to Heaven? Can I get to heaven just by being good? Do I have to believe in Jesus Christ? Do you know where you will spend eternity? What does it mean to say; The Lord is my Shepherd?

These are a few of the multitude of questions that many ask? Many are rather confused? I pray that after you read this you will better understand the answers to the above questions!

What is the point and why all the confusion? The confusion comes and many are bewildered because so few take the time to actually know the Word of God for themselves, nor proceed to develop an ongoing personal relationship with Him. They often take second hand information without considering the source and realizing it just might not be the Word? It is really important to know the Word of God for yourself!

What is also a bit alarming; is that there is so much of the Word that is being pushed aside and replaced by old wise fables and tales by Christians… Many opt to determine what is right for them simply based on how they feel and have been erroneously taught. Much misinformation is passed down and becomes accepted as truth… often reflecting an unfavorable picture of the Lord and His Word! What is popular or the latest trends determine how one lives rather than upon the Word of God…

Did you know that tradition can be anything you decide? There are many traditions that are first-rate and quite beneficial. But whenever the principle it teaches is contrary to the Word of God it should be abandoned. It is always GOOD to be Thankful to GOD! God never intended for Christianity to be reduced to a legalistic list of rules, to a tradition nor just another religion or something practiced on Sunday… Christianity was meant to be an everyday lifestyle. Jesus Christ came to show us the Way!

No wonder so many are lost! Rather than follow His directions, many opt to just do their own thing! Think about this for a minute. If you knew me well and trusted me and I gave you directions how to get somewhere and you are guaranteed to arrive there safely, would you follow them? Or would you say Hmm I’m not so sure I’ll ask someone else or I will find the way myself? You may eventually get there but in the meantime you have chosen the tedious path laden with anxiety and uncertainty rather than… Believe me! Do you really believe the Word?

Jesus Christ is the Son of God! As a matter of fact: “For GOD so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever BELIEVES in HIM shall not perish but have everlasting life. For GOD did not send His Son in the world to condemn the world. but that the world may be SAVED!” JOHN 3. He is door to Heaven and there is no other way to the Father!

Jesus has already prepared the Way! But in order to stay on or get on the right path we must follow His directions! “Do not let your hearts be troubled, TRUST in GOD! TRUST also in ME! In My Father’s house are many rooms, if it were not so, I would not have told you, I am going to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I WILL COME BACK and take you to be with ME that you may also be where I am…” John 14. Prepare: JESUS IS COMING BACK!

Let’s allow our spiritual minds to take the forefront and ask the Lord to open our spiritual ears and camp here a moment! Is your heart troubled? Have you made a bad decision? Has someone lied on you? Is your mind confused? Are you or a love one physically or mentally ill? Have you been given some bad news? Are you uncertain about your future?

Well I have some “GOOD NEWS!” Jesus has already prepared a Way! All His Word is true! It is okay to analyze and assess to a degree what is going on and take a look at what is happening in your life… But in order to see your way through or out of a situation clearly you must learn to TRUST JESUS!

No matter how much we plan; things can and will still happen that are beyond our control. Therefore you cannot put all your TRUST in something you see. Upon accepting Jesus Christ as our personal Savior, God has given us an inner compass to guide us! Regardless as to where you are, what is happening or what has happened your way out is through Him! The first place you must turn is to GOD! If you are a believer you have been given His Holy Spirit as a Comforter! Belief in Him and in HIS Word is supremely paramount for safe travel on the narrow road! “Seek first the Lord and HIS kingdom and HIS righteousness and ALL these things will be given to you as well…” Matthew 6. You must seek Him or begin to seek Him above all else!

If you do not know Him start now! If you have grown slack in your commitment to His will in your life recommit! Sincerely confess that you are a sinner and you are sorry for the sin in your life that separates you from Him. Let Him know now you want to turn your life over to Him. You want to draw closer to Him and invite Jesus into your heart! You want your life to be different and you want to learn more about Jesus Christ and His plan of salvation… You want to learn how to trust Him…

Why is that? If you are trusting in something you can see or figure out then it is not FAITH! “Now FAITH is being SURE of what we HOPE for and certain of what we do not see…” Hebrews 11. What is key here is being sure and certain! It is so important that you develop your very own personal and intimate relationship with the Lord! Know God so well that when anyone tells you something, you are able to discern or you can go to the Word and find out for yourself if it is of HIM!

The Greek word for faith is pistis! Faith is being confident in a reliable source!

There is so much spiritual warfare designed to get you off track on to the broad road where there are so many travelers that it appears it is the right direction. Have you ever noticed when there is a lot of traffic you must drive much more carefully! You must pay closer attention to where you are going. If you don’t you can easily miss your turn, or have an accident…

GOD is who He says He is!

When we confess Jesus Christ as our personal Savior we enter the spiritual realm of belief. Not just any belief but we actually profess we believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God. This does not mean we merely join a spiritual social club and are then just indoctrinated to a particular denomination or non – denomination. It goes much deeper than that? Yes it is wise to pursue a place of worship where the Word of God is being taught! You need to fellowship with other Christians who are able to properly spiritually nourish you! It is important to know and understand that you have made a commitment to live God’s way! What are you saying…

The Greek Word for believe is pisteuo. Believe on the Lord Jesus and you will be saved. We are saved by Grace through FAITH not works!

When you become a Christian you embark on a spiritual journey that is a lifelong process of spiritual growth. This is just the beginning… Wherever you are in your life you now must begin to go forward in the Lord! You cannot undo anything that has transpired in your life! There is nothing that God is not aware of! Now you must get to know Him as your Creator and Sustainer of life on a personal level. You must become familiar with His voice! You must learn to “Be STILL and KNOW!” You are now to travel on the narrow road that is less traveled!

You have been given the gift of His Holy Spirit that resides within you!

Faith is an action word! You must step out on FAITH! In order to feel the impact of His Spirit’s presence you must sincerely ask to be filled daily by inviting Him into your day to day life. Throughout the day you can actually become cognizant and reconnect when you feel yourself shifting… You must take the necessary steps to develop an ongoing personal intimate relationship with Him.

Wherever you are God knows! Wherever you have been and whatever you have done God knows that too. GOD LOVES YOU! It is important to know that you have entered into a spiritual war zone. The world at large is hostile to believers! Once you become strong in the FAITH you threaten their system of embracing whatever is popular… Thinking outside of the box they have prepared for you is not welcomed… So prepare for opposition! But our weapons are not carnal! Think about Jesus, who was sinless and how they conspired against Him… He was not readily accepted by the very ones He came to help! His motives were always questioned and He was slandered, called everything but a child of God! They even used someone that was supposedly close to Him to betray Him… Jesus as well as His disciples endured harassment, ridicule and undue mistreatment. Yes, we too must go through some things…! So do not be surprised like Peter tells us; “In this greatly REJOICE, though now for a little while you may have to suffer grief in all kinds o trails – These have come so that your FAITH – of greater worth than gold, which perished even though refined by fire – may be proved GENUINE and may result in Praise, Glory, and Honor Jesus Christ when revealed.” I Peter 1.

No need to be afraid, but you must begin to be aware of what is going on. Pray for spiritual discernment! Peter shares with us how important it is to know what lies ahead! He knew you can expect persecution from just about anyone including at times your own family…”If the world hates you, you know that it hated Me before it hated you. If you were of the world, the world would love its own. Yet because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you.” John 15. Is it becoming any clearer why you need to know the Word for yourself?

A Prayer to My Father

JESUS CHRIST the HOPE of GLORY!

Father, we come in the name of Jesus to thank you for this glorious and wonderful day that you have made! We thank you Lord for your Word that you have given us as a guide as to how we should live! We Thank you Lord that the Word of the Old Testament was fulfilled through Jesus Christ our LORD! Father, Your Word is timeless it is alive and powerful! We thank you Lord for your Holy Spirit that you have given us to be with us and guide us to all TRUTH! Father we thank you that you allowed your Son Jesus Christ, who lived a perfect sinless life, to die on the cross for us in our place! He was your word wrapped in flesh! For this we THANK YOU! He conquered sin in the flesh so He could be the only perfect example to each and every one of us both saved as well as the unsaved! “To be born of the virgin Mary! To suffer under Pontius Pilate, who was then crucified died and was buried. On the third day He arose from the dead!He then arose with ALL POWER! Father for this we THANK YOU!

We realize Father it is because of your Love, Grace and Mercy we exist! That we as your children are supposed to be “in the world but not of the world!” Father, I/ we thank you for your word you have given us to govern our lives by! Not in a legalistic rigid manner, but in a way that pleases you! We Thank you Lord, that you have already blessed us with every spiritual blessing through CHRIST JESUS! We pray Lord that we continuously learn to live our lives in a way that your light is able to shine through us! Convict us and bring sincere repentance… Forgive us for any and all of our shortcomings, Lord! Thank you Lord for letting us know that we have a place in your body and you are not a respecter of persons! Help us to live before you in our homes, on the job, in the marketplace and where ever we are. Let us not pattern ourselves after the world. But let the world see you in us! We pray that your Universal Church seeks your will above all else for you are returning for a Church without spot or wrinkle! Father give us the sincere desire to seek wholeheartedly above all else your spiritual discernment and wisdom so we are not deceived by the many deceptions and manipulations of man to pull us away from our center. “Create in us clean hearts and renew the right spirit within us!” Keep us on the straight and Narrow!

Help us Lord to look to You from which our help comes from as we overcome evil with good! You are our light and our salvation, because of this we have no one to fear! We realize that you are ALWAYS with us to lead, guide and protect us from seen and unseen dangers! Father we need you in a world that continues to put your principles for daily living on the back burner! We realize Father that you can return at any moment! Help us to prepare for your return as though you were to come at anytime! Again Father we thank you for all your blessings, past present and future!

In the name of JESUS we ask that you fill us with the presence of Your precious HOLY SPIRT! Lead us in the path of your righteousness! For it is in you “We live and move and have our being” In the mighty Name of Jesus! Amen & AMEN!

TO GOD BE THE GLORY!!!

Where Does God Dwell ?

GOD Dwells In The Hearts of HIS People!

Where the Spirit of the Lord is there is liberty. We in America have a freedom that you just don’t find in the rest of the world. We have freedom of speech, freedom to vote, freedom to live and go where and when we please. But most importantly we have the freedom to worship. There are many types of worship services but there is only one true God. The only way to worship Him is in spirit and truth. On a recent trip to Athens Greece and Istanbul Turkey I was able to see some of the world’s most exquisite architecture. Turkey is a country that is 95% Moslem. In Turkey there is the renowned Hagia Sophia Cathedral. It was built for the Christian community to reflect the beauty that Solomon’s Temple once beheld. In spite of its elaborate intricate handiwork full of gold mosaic tiles, marble and brick walls, it is now a museum. It also contains various artifacts derived from Greek mythology and its continence is a shadow of it’s once intended purpose. Ironically across from it is the beautiful Sultanahmet mosque. Its known as the Blue mosque due to an extravagant array of blue mosaic tiles. Adorned with its intricate splendor and statueous marble columns and stained glass windows. It is scrupulously maintained and it is a place of worship for the Moslem community. Turkey is full of ornately designed mosques and Mohammed is whom they worship.

Words cannot express my gratitude to God for the things my eyes have beheld. The scriptures continuously came to my mind as I walked through the Hagia Sophia. “God does not dwell in a temple made by hands”. “That God is coming back for a churh without spot or wrinkle.” There is absolutely no doubt in my mind to the unmerited grace the Lord has bestowed upon us.

The one thing the tour guide who was of Moslem decent (in Turkey along with our guide we were required to have a Turkish guide as well) said that stuck with me was “why would a powerful God allow His Temple to turn into a museum?” My point is God is so gracious and kind that He allows us so much freedom. He even gives us the freedom to choose who or what we want to worship. When I lift up Holy Hands, to Him and Him only my heart is eternally grateful. It is by His grace and His grace alone are we saved. God is truly worthy of all the PRAISE!

In Turkey is the city of Ephesus. There are miles and miles of ruins. Original artifacts, columns etc. and remains to testify to the fact Ephesus existed. To this day approximately only 10% of it has been uncovered. It is still currently under excavation. Primitive hand tools are used in order to preserve whatever archeological finds are uncovered. Paul wrote the book of Ephesians to the church at Ephesus. Just look at God! Despite the fact Turkey is a Moslem country Ephesus remains a monument to Christians of God’s eternal presence, grace and mercy. My most invigorating moments were spent in Athens Greece. We walked up the steep incline to the Acropolis saturated with aged columns made of marble. The Parthenon and majestic ruins were filled with slippery marble laden paths. The highlight was when I observed my husband humbly climb “Mars Hill!” The infamous hill that the Apostle Paul speaks about in the book of Acts. When we approached Mars Hill there was a woman preaching! Acts tells us “And it will 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.” Paul spoke concerning an altar with an inscription representing the unknown god on Mars Hill. That unknown God is the God I love, worship and adore. The only true and living God. Mars hill today is in a magnificent open place. High above Athens for all to see. (I will forever cherish what it felt like sitting there and praising God for all He has done!!!) I AM NOT ASHAMED OF THE GOSPEL! It’s walls and canopy are the blue firmament that God Himself spoke into existence through the Word. That Word is Jesus Christ wrapped in flesh. Who sacrificed His life for the sins of the entire world!!!

The gates of hell will not prevail against the Church of God. Glory! Glory! His TRUTH is marching on!!!
“The earth truly is the Lord’s and the fullness thereof the world and them that dwell therein.” There is not a place that can be built that can contain the fullness of His majestic awesomeness. The early church had no building they met in homes. We have dedicated our home to be a place where God’s way prevails. The heart of each of His Children is where His true Church abides. There is nothing wrong with a church made by hands. But the focal point should not be a hierarchy laden with cliques, clichés, how do we pay our bills programs and solemn auxiliaries; a mere shadow of what God originally intended.

“Where the Spirit of the Lord is there is liberty.” We should praise Him in song, WORD and deeds. We are not saved by works. But our works display our faith. Our main focus should be to cultivate and environment where God receives the preeminence. It is God’s Word and His power that will draw men, women, boys and girls and change their lives when we spread His Gospel. Whether it be via T.V., radio, internet, song or the spoken word. TO GOD BE THE GLORY!!!

A Very PRESENT HELP, In Times of Trouble

There is so much turbulence and conflict about us in the world today and within our country as well. Few will readily admit it, but it is a great deal of conflict going on also within the Church. This is, resulting in further conflict surrounding many families, marriages, friendships, on the job and in the schools. Quite often many of the unhealthy dynamics simply go unaddressed. Guilt, blame and shame take the forefront. Therefore anxiety levels, anger, resentment, depression, addictions, numerous stress related illnesses and health concerns are on the rise. Due to the increasing awareness of the unfortunate declining economic status within our nation, there has been an overwhelming trickle down global effect on the world at large. There have been strings of layoffs, numerous companies closing, rapidly falling stock prices, decreasing values of 401K’s and other retirement accounts, we are in a “recession”. It has been said that the United States has been consuming more than it produces for years. It has been quoted that just in the last eight years we lost $40 Trillion of our economy. The Washington Times quotes; “Paul Volcker, former chairman of the Federal Reserve and an economic adviser to President Obama, told a congressional committee Wednesday that massive trade-related imbalances in the U.S. economy were the source of the financial crisis that has produced an ugly recession.”

There is a growing concern as to the overall quality of life worldwide. Ongoing wars, terrorists threats and due to global warming, the threat of more hurricanes, famines, floods, earthquakes and more natural disasters are all becoming of a greater concern as well. Broken families, divorces, suicides and escalating crime, all these and more factor into the overall quality of life as we know it. But should we really be surprised? In spite of it all there is still hope! If you are a believer then you must know that the Truth of God’s Word is being affirmed. Jesus has said, “You will hear, of wars and rumors of wars, but see to it that you are not alarmed, such things must happen, but the end is still to come, Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be famines and earthquakes in various places. All these are the beginning of birth pains. Then you will be handed over to be persecuted and put to death, and you will be hated by all nations because of me. At that time many will turn away from the faith and betray and hate each other, and many false prophets will appear and deceive many people. Because of the increase of wickedness, the love of many will grow cold, but he who stands firm to the end will be saved.” It is so very important to know God’s Word!

God’s Word is so wonderfully amazing! Our attitude and perception have a lot to do with how we cope in any given situation. Conflict is inevitable. The Lord really is, can, and will be a refuge in times like these. Although a growing concern is warranted. God is able! “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear.” God’s people should always look to Him, especially when it seems as though the world is coming apart. On many occasions even within His Church the ways of the world have been embraced. But this is nothing new. Things may even get worst before it gets better. There is much spiritual warfare about us. But don’t blame God. Our security and significance must be in Him alone! His weapons are not carnal. One must seek to not compromise His Word. During adversity with balanced faith, families grow stronger, healthy relationships are fortified when the armor of the Lord is embraced. His Word prevails! Just know God will never lead you to do anything contrary to His Word. Man from the very beginning has quite often chosen to disregard what God has said. What we are experiencing is a direct result of those consequences. But remember, “The earth is the Lords and the fullness thereof, the world and them that dwell therein…”

Begin to consider looking to God and His principles for the solution to whatever you may be going through. In Him there is always hope! When conflict arises it is so very important to consult Him. More often than not when conflict arises He is the last resort. God has given us various illustrated methods to utilize healthy confrontation. But too often pride is at the forefront and carnal methods are employed instead. I would like to share with you a tidbit from the narrative on Joseph. It is one of the many exhilarating examples you can find in the Bible: There was a “famine” or should I say “recession” in the land? Joseph was favored by the Lord and was also his father’s Israel’s favorite . Joseph had many brothers. “Now Israel loved Joseph more than any of his other sons, because he had been born to him in his old age; and he made a richly ornamented robe for him. When his brothers saw that their father loved him more than any of them, they hated him and could not speak a kind word to him.”Joseph had several dreams. In one of his dreams, “the sun moon and stars bowed down to him.” His brothers were jealous of Joseph so they plotted together and sold Joseph into slavery, they called him a “dreamer.” They then slaughtered a goat, put the blood on Joseph’s robe, went home, lied and told their father that Joseph had been killed…
While a slave Joseph’s master Potiphar favored him and put him in charge of all he had. His master’s wife tried to seduce him, she in turn lied on him and he was put into prison. While in prison the Lord’s favor was with Joseph. The warden was impressed by Joseph, even here he put him in charge of everything! Joseph was able to interpret dreams. While in prison, many things happened to Joseph… One day, Pharaoh the King of Egypt was troubled and had a dream. Joseph was called; he was able to interpret his dream. The Pharaoh realized that Joseph was wise and discerning. “So Pharaoh said to Joseph, “I hereby put you in charge of the whole land of Egypt…”
A great famine came upon the land. Joseph had planned wisely and because of it there was ample food in Egypt. Joseph’s brothers lived in Canaan were there was no food. They were sent to Egypt by their father to buy grain. Guess what? When they arrived in Egypt they had to bow down to Joseph, he was now the governor. God knew way in advance what was going to take place. In spite of all Joseph’s mistreatment and adversity the Lord was still with Joseph… He finally revealed himself to his brothers. “I am your brother Joseph, the one you sold into Egypt! And now, do not be distressed and do not be angry for selling me here, because it was to save the lives that God sent me ahead of you. For two years now there has been a famine in the land, and for the next five years there will not be plowing and reaping. But GOD sent me ahead of you to preserve for you a remnant on earth and to save your lives by a great deliverance…” (For the details of this amazing narrative, read Genesis 39-47) Look at God!

This is why it is important to “Be Still and know that He is God.” Knowing God and His Word helps us to discern and recognize when something is not of Him. This is why we must daily ask for the infilling presence of His Holy Spirit. God does not have to manipulate, operate undercover, nor utilize false witnesses. God is aware of everything. He is Omniscient! It is very important to know the Lord’s Word for yourself and develop an ongoing, growing, trusting, personal intimate relationship with Him. It is important to learn to, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not to your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him and He will make your paths straight.”

We must learn to invite God into all areas of our lives. God has a way in which to resolve conflict and confront issues that is quite different from that of the world. Remember He is a SPIRIT of TRUTH! His Word is full of seemingly impossible situations that resulted in a favorable outcome. Many who claim to be Christians continue to embrace very carnal ways to remediate behavior and seek resolutions. Many subscribe to a dual lifestyle one way at home and another way is present before the Church Community. It is important to keep in mind that God is aware of everything. He knows us from the inside out. Many really do not know nor believe that His Holy Spirit really does have Transformation power! He can and is more than able to bring about a true Metamorphosis in your life. Praise God!

Jesus Christ came so that we might live differently. Throughout His Word you will find all sorts of situations that are profoundly unfathomable. Yet He saw and will see His people through. There is a wealth of wisdom found in the Word of God that is priceless. The Pharisees was the established religious order that sought to discredit Jesus. They were intimidated by Him because He did not adhere to their legalistic practices. Spiritually they were blind. They too wanted to continue to resolve things their own way. Jesus was a living example as to what one can expect when you truly dedicate your life to Him! God knew way back then what would be going on now. “Blessed is the man who finds wisdom, the man who gains understanding, for she is more profitable than silver and yields better returns than gold. She is more precious than rubies: nothing you can desire can compare with her…”

Some things just will not be understood on this side of heaven. From the very beginning God had a plan for our lives. God is so gracious, loving, kind and patient. Few know what it truly means to love. God is love. Can you really love without knowing Him? He sent His only begotten Son so we could be redeemed from the power of sin. We have been given an Eternal Comforter an Internal Teacher! Even in the midst of all the turmoil that is about us His plan is still the same. If you are burdened down by the pressures and stressors of life, I have some “Good News” for you. “Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light” (Matthew 11:28-30). God may not remove every burden, every difficult person or situation in your life, but you can find comfort in His Word. It is important to know His Promises! I assure you, He will and does keep all His Promises! Even in these difficult days, His Word will be “A lamp unto your feet and a Light unto your path. I have sworn and I will keep your righteous judgments…” To GOD be the GLORY!

The Narrow Road

The Narrow Road

It is through God’s plan of salvation we are given the gift of eternal life. Once we accept Jesus Christ as our Savior we embark upon a spiritual journey. His precious Holy Spirit comes to reside within us. The Holy Spirit is there to comfort, protect, lead and guide us. To help us understand what the Word really means. His Word is there to be a “lamp unto our feet and a Light unto our path.” In Galatians 5 you will find the Fruit of His Spirit and the works of the flesh. This will help you to know the difference between, when you are walking in the Spirit or walking carnally in the flesh. This is also another reason why it is so very important to know the scriptures for yourself. God will never lead you to do anything contrary to His Word. His Word tells us every now and then you will find a true believer. The scriptures actually say “Enter through the narrow gate, for wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life and only a few find it.”

God loves us so much that He allowed His only begotten Son to leave heaven and take upon Himself a body of flesh. Jesus conquered sin in the flesh for us. So we might have the gift of Salvation! He was born, lived a sinless life was crucified dead and buried. Then he arose with all power! We never become the power, yet we are allowed access. Jesus truly demonstrated His love to us by actually showing us what it is to travel on that narrow road. If you study the life of Jesus Christ you will find that He encountered many things. He was persecuted, mistreated, lied upon and maligned. He was called evil. He was betrayed, misunderstood and abandoned by the very ones He came to help. The scriptures are not just some mere stories written to amuse us. They are there to show us the way. To help us grow spiritually mature and encourage us on that narrow road travel.

The Bible is supposed to be the final authority for the child of God. It is supposed to be our road map for life. As His children we are His Church. The Church is His Bride. One must remain watchful and prayerful. Life will allow many thorns and thistles in order to derail the child of God. That narrow road often appears to take the form of a roller coaster? For some taking a detour onto wide road traveling becomes an alternate route. Regardless as to what is going on about us we must strive to sincerely live each day keeping in mind that Jesus is going to return for His Church. This also helps you to be prepared for whatever obstacles are put in your path. One must learn to lay aside the things that attempt to distract or derail your path. So much of the world has been allowed to creep into the Church. For many it is hard to tell the difference. You must know the Word for yourself in order to not be deceived. Remember the Word tells us that the wheat and the tares are growing together. On many occasions evil is called good and good is perceived as evil. In many cases the world and its way has really become the final authority. Learn to trust God!

Lord help us! Don’t be dismayed! Absolutely nothing gets by God! God knows who are His. Rest assured. When you truly know His Word, you would know that nothing or no one can change that! God’s Word is TRUE! Jesus stood on the Truth. God knows what has happened, is happening and what will happen! We can rely on the Truth! People have an amazing ability to twist the truth in order to suit their purpose. To take things out of context in order to make things appear and seem a certain way. Some people will believe anything and anybody. You never have to force yourself or God’s Word upon anyone. Just be patient. Learn to “be still and know.” You do not have to stoop to their level. Just know in the long run it will only backfire. When anyone tries to oppress you, you never have to be afraid especially when you know that Psalms 27 is true! “The Lord is my Light and my salvation, who shall I fear….” Truth erases doubt and will give you a sure footing. It takes the Truth to bring things to the Light and dispel lies. God does not operate in the dark. There is nothing hidden or uncovered to Him! “Wait on the Lord.” Study the life of Jesus. You will find that He was there in the very beginning and will be there through eternity. Many consorted together to derail Him. False witnesses were even hired to justify their case against Him. Simply so things could appear a certain way and cast doubt upon His credibility? To undermine His good intentions, perhaps with man but certainly not with God! Just to prove their case against Him. Jesus never sinned. He remained focused and faithful. We too must learn to keep our focus on God. You can rest assured when you know God knows the intentions of your heart. He knows everything. Romans tell us “Therefore there is no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus…” You do not have to walk after the flesh. Yes, we have all “sinned and fallen short of the glory of God.” But as you grow stronger spiritually we are to sin less. This is why we need a Savior. To help us stay on the right path. It is so important to know the Lord and His Word intimately. The Truth really can set you free! You can rely on the Truth! Not to just read it for the sake of reading. But to consistently study, embrace and digest its contents and seek your path forward. Get off that wide road traveling it leads to destruction. The Truth will untangle a multitude of opinions it will free you from a swamp of uncertainty. It is able to keep you on the right path. God really is able to keep you from falling!

The word scripture comes from the Greek word graphe, which means; what is written. The scriptures are truly the inspired Word of God. They were written to help us navigate through this maze of life. Many times Jesus said nothing. There were times He simply said “It is written.” God does not intend for us to be mislead. Narrow road traveling is possible. Difficult situations and suffering are a part of life. But so is His joy even in the midst of sorrows! He wants us to hide His word in our hearts. It is very important that you remain patient and be prayerful! Jesus wants us to be consistent and stable. Not to let how things appear sway you from what you know is right. In John 17 you will find another one of Jesus’ wonderfully recorded prayers; “I have given them your Word and the world has hated them, for they are not of the world any more than I am of the world. My prayer is not that you take them out of the world but that you protect them from the evil one. They are not of the world, even as I am not of it. Sanctify them by the TRUTH, your Word is TRUTH.” When you place your trust in Jesus you become sanctified. He will protect and keep you. You can rejoice and praise Him knowingHe has a plan for you as well as each one of His children.

You can depend on God’s Word. It is here to help us through this maze of life. To nourish, feed, water, protect and cleanse us. It is there to keep us on the path that leads to Him! But there are some things that you need to know and expect, to help you live your life seeking His purpose. It really is not about how things look to others. Know who you are and who you belong to! Always be ready to give and answer for the hope that lies within! What is important is what God knows! Do you really know what it means when you say Jesus is your Savior? It means that you are now a child of God. I must tell you, you should know as well, you also become target practice for a lot of spiritual warfare. It is true the saying that “the moment we admit life is difficult it becomes easier.” II Timothy 3 tells us, “In fact everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted, while evil men and imposters will go from bad to worse, deceiving and being deceived. But for you to continue in what you have learned and have become convinced of, because you know from who you have learned it, and how from infancy you have known the holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.” For the child of God what makes it easier is knowing that the Lord is there 24/7. “He will never leave nor forsake you.” His Word is there to comfort you, help and sustain you, guide you and see you through it all. Whenever you become burdened you must learn to take responsibility and then shift your load to Him. God will never fail you! He promises to “supply all of our needs through Christ Jesus” You must read, know, continuously study, trust and allow His Holy Spirit to illuminate His Word for your path forward. The Word of God is our road map for narrow road travel. Life is a quest. Jesus is the only way to the Father.

Quite often when you find your self in a difficult situation if you are not prayerful your first response will be to respond carnally or in the flesh. To impulsively respond and seek to gratify self or to blame others rather than take your part of the responsibility. This is again when it is important to know; “That the Truth does set us free.” God always has a remedy. One just has to be open and willing to take heed to His way. Remember that narrow path I’ve been talking about? Always remember the Fruit of His Spirit is available. Remember God has a plan for your life. His promises are true! Nothing is too hard for God. Keep your focus! Mediate on the Lord’s Word. The WORD of God tells us to “Do not be anxious about anything but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians gives us additional insightful words to ponder when going through, “Finally my brothers, whatever is TRUE, whatever is NOBLE, whatever is RIGHT, whatever is PURE, whatever is LOVELY, whatever is ADMIRABLE, if anything is excellent or praiseworthy think about such things. Whatever you have earned or received or heard of Me, or seen of Me put into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.” God is awesome!

Good News !

Good News! Good News! Did you know that before you were knitted together in your Mother’s womb that God knew who you were? Did you know that there is absolutely nothing that God does not know? When you know who you are in Christ you will experience much joy! When your faith and trust are in the Lord He will give you an inexpressible inner peace. The joy and peace God provides is not contingent on your circumstance. God does not want you to live your life as a yoyo experience. You cannot change anything that has already happened in your life. But you can start by reaching out to Him right now, anywhere and anytime! God is, can be, and wants to be your constant companion. Don’t wait until something unpleasant happens. Begin today to really get to know God. God wants you to walk with Him. He has left us His Comforter, His precious Holy Spirit to teach, lead, guide and direct us. Begin if you don’t already to take time each day to thank and praise God for who He is. He is worthy of our praise! We really do have a reason to be thankful!

When ever life presents a test or a trial, it is an excellent opportunity for you to strengthen your relationship with the Lord. To be still and know! God wants to be a part of all of your life. God is able to keep you from falling! I Peter says the trials that we experience in life are to test our faith? God wants to refine you. Your faith will be tested in the fire. Fire purifies gold. Gold is refined under fire. A prospector who discovers a rock that bears gold will send it to an assayer for evaluation. The fire will melt the impurities away and eventually yield pure gold. Our faith in God is far more precious than gold. I Peter even tells us that our faith will bring us honor on the day of Jesus Christ return. Trusting in God will bring Salvation to your soul. The power of Jesus’ Christ resurrection is Good News! It has been preached to us by the power of His heaven sent Holy Spirit. We can even look forward soberly and patiently to more of God’s kindness when Jesus returns.

Good News! Good News! Many people all over the world are still waiting for the Messiah to come. We as Christians know that He has already come. We know through faith that Jesus comes in and sets up residence in our hearts when you truly accept Him as your personal Savior. Matthew traces Jesus roots all the way back to Abraham. Abraham was the first to receive the promise. Matthew goes on to record the story of Jesus life on earth. He tells how His Mother Mary was pledged to be married to Joseph. Many unexplainable things took place surrounding Jesus’ birth. There was a lot of spiritual warfare on the horizon. Before they were even able to come together as husband and wife Mary was found to be with child through the power of the Holy Spirit. God allowed an angel to appear to Joseph who assured Him that he was not to be afraid. He was told that she would give birth to a Son and to name Him Jesus and that this child Jesus would save the world from their sins. Imagine the faith and trust this took. Please take time to read this entire historical event again. Mary and Joseph were obedient to God. We now all benefit from their obedience.

As a child of God He wants us to obey Him as well. He does not want you to slip back and forth into your old ways. God has called us to Holiness. Jesus paved the way back to Him! Holiness is not wearing no makeup, dresses to your ankles, running all over the place and falling out, wearing white or……… Now do not go there. There is nothing wrong with wearing white. I happen to really like white. Yes, and certainly there is nothing wrong with shouting and praising God. We certainly have many reasons to praise Him! The point is spiritual purity goes much deeper than the surface. Yes, white is symbolic of purity. But remember the KKK wore white too. They also ran around and shouted. (A bit of humor is always good) They just wore white to cover up who they really were. God knows who His children really are. He knows everything. The story of Jesus birth is an excellent example that displays just that! God’s Word is so powerful!

Did you know that your body is the temple of God? It was designed as a place for His Holy Spirit to reside. It is as my granddaughter says; an earth suit. Jesus actually lived in His Mother Mary’s body. He came from heaven and humbled Himself to our existence and bore a body of flesh. He lived a sinless life. He conquered sin in the flesh for us! The scriptures tells us that His earthly body did not decay. Jesus restored to us what Adam and Eve relinquished because of their disobedience. God has created a marvelous wonderful thing when He created mankind. We are His workmanship. But we are responsible for what we do with our lives and our bodies. This is why we need a Savior. God wants us to walk in the light of His Word. His Word is a lamp unto our feet and a light unto our path. The Apostle John wrote to people who were already Christians. He wanted to remind them of how one’s faith affects a person’s life. God wants us to walk in the Light not in darkness. Notice how he says if we claim to be……. Well, there should be a difference in your life when you claim to walk with the Lord. Have you ever thought about some of the things you say and do? Have you ever heard the song “Walk in the Light? God knows when and if you are walking with Him!

Although John was thought to be somewhere between 80 and 90 when He wrote the epistles bearing His name, he was still vigorously urging the Church to walk in the light of God’s Word. To have true fellowship with Him. You can have banquets and shake hands all day long. But in order to have true fellowship with Him you must walk in the light! I enjoy taking a relaxing bubble bath each day. But, looking at a tub of bubbles will not clean you. God’s true Church is supposed to be a pillar of Truth. Guess what? When everything but the Truth is allowed to prevail God knows. Living for God is serious business. You must really get into God’s Word. So His Word can really get in you. Getting into His Word will cleanse you from all unrighteousness. Guess what your faith will also be strengthened. The Word of God can and will convict you of any wrongdoing. It will bring any impurities to the surface and allow you to truly repent. Let’s not get repeating confused with repentance. Remember that purifying process I talked about?

The Good News is God is the reason for not only the season. But for life! Jesus Christ is the only atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only our sins but the sins of the world. Jesus is the Light of the world. God has given us so much. “Our lives are a gift from Him. What we do with our lives is our gift to Him.” Are you happy with your life? Do you need to give more of your life to Him? Let’s make it personal. Are you really obedient to Him? True fellowship is having a relationship with God. God is the ultimate Father. He gave His only Begotten Son to redeem us! The Good News is there is power in the name Jesus. He has given us the precious gift of eternal life. God is not only there for you; He is everywhere! There is freedom in Christ. Please, remember as I said earlier that your trials come to purify you and make you strong. God is not a surface God. God is really and truly deep. He wants to take us to deeper depths and higher heights. Jesus paid a ransom to save us from the broad road that leads to destruction. This narrow road leads to heaven. The Good News is He paid for our lives and sins with the precious life and blood of His sinless life. It is because of this our trust can be in God who raised Christ from the dead! Now our faith, trust and hope can rest in Him alone.

The Word of God tells us that, “All honor belongs to God, the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ: for it is His boundless mercy that has given us the privilege of being born again, so that we are now members of God’s own family. The good News is we live in eternal hope because we know without a doubt that Jesus Christ was raised from the dead. And God Himself has reserved for His children the priceless gift of eternal life. Hallelujah! It is kept in heaven for us, pure and undefiled, beyond the reach of change and decay. Now do you see how very important it is to know who Jesus is! How very important to know what God has done for us! God is powerful. He will and can make sure that whenever that time comes that we will safely get to heaven to receive and continue on in His precious gift of eternal life.

It is very important that you get to know God for who He is and not for just who people say He is. Get to know Him for yourself! Then you will not be tossed to and fro by every different kind of doctrine. Remember that inexpressible joy and peace I talked about? Always remember even when the going gets tuff down here for a while or season; God is always there. All you need to do is keep your focus on the Lord! After all He is the author and finisher of your faith. When you make it a goal in your life to please God you will not have to have a yoyo experience. God can keep you in perfect peace if your mind is stayed on Him! Delight yourself in God’s Word! He will not only give you the desires of your heart but, He will also give you a sound mind! You can be like that tree in Psalms that is planted by the rivers of water. This type of tree roots goes deep! Far beyond what the human eye can see. When your faith is in God He will see to it that any fruit is brought forth in His time. All the Glory belongs to Him. Remember God. is always just a prayer away. Remember that without faith it is impossible to please God.

Good News! Good News! This is the time of the year we set aside to celebrate the birth of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ! Joy to the world the Lord has come! Let earth receive her King! Let every heart prepare Him room and heaven and nature sing! We give gifts to our love ones, friends and neighbors. Let’s remember that every good and perfect Gift comes from God! Let’s remember each and everyday that God gave us the Greatest Gift of all! Let’s remember now and throughout the year to praise God from whom all blessings flow. Praise Him all creatures here below. Praise Him above thee heavenly hosts. Praise, Father Son and Holy Ghost!

We’ve Come To Bow Down And Worship HIM!