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aspiritual Bible Study: Facing Giants - Subscribe

Hello My Friend/Guest,

Today is Sunday March 1, 2009 and we are beginning our studies on the book of Deuteronomy. Please read chapters 1 & 2 in your Bible, you can also Click Here to read them. If the link dies not work you can copy and paste this link into your browser: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Deuteronomy%201-2&version=9

Today's Message: Facing Giants
The giants of these turbulent economic days are fearsome and, only by reading and obeying the Word of God will the Holy Spirit guide and bring us through.

The book of Deuteronomy is the fifth book of the Old Testament and contains thirty-four chapters. The author of the book is Moses and it was written to the Israelites. The purpose of the book was to restate the law to the new generations of Israelites born since Mt. Sinai. What we are to learn from the book is that obedience brings blessing, but disobedience brings judgment.

In his first message to the new generation Moses reminded the Israelites that they were about eleven days journey from Horeb. This message marked the fortieth year of their being in the wilderness, " These be the words which Moses spake unto all Israel on this side Jordan in the wilderness, in the plain over against the Red sea, between Paran, and Tophel, and Laban, and Hazeroth, and Dizahab. (There are eleven days' journey from Horeb by the way of mount Seir unto Kadeshbarnea.) And it came to pass in the fortieth year, in the eleventh month, on the first day of the month, that Moses spake unto the children of Israel, according unto all that the LORD had given him in commandment unto them;.............Turn you, and take your journey, and go to the mount of the Amorites, and unto all the places nigh thereunto, in the plain, in the hills, and in the vale, and in the south, and by the sea side, to the land of the Canaanites, and unto Lebanon, unto the great river, the river Euphrates.Behold, I have set the land before you: go in and possess the land which the LORD sware unto your fathers, Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, to give unto them and to their seed after them." (Deuteronomy 1:1-3,7-

. The new generation probably wondered if they would ever move out of the wilderness and into the promised land. Would they take choose God at His Word and live by faith or will they follow in their ancestors footsteps?

The older generation despite their miraculous deliverance from Egypt, sinned against the Lord by not believing that He would give them victory over the Canaanites. By faith, the promised land could have been theirs, but they failed to receive it because they saw giants (hardships) ahead. They did not recognize that their hardships were designed to test their faith and prepare them to defeat the Canaanites. As a consequence of their sin of unbelief, that first generation failed to accomplish the will of God and wasted their lives wandering in the wilderness until they all died except for Caleb and Joshua.

Moses reminded them of how God had blessed them in the wilderness even after they had been disobedient. "For the LORD thy God hath blessed thee in all the works of thy hand: he knoweth thy walking through this great wilderness: these forty years the LORD thy God hath been with thee; thou hast lacked nothing." (2:7). How different the history of Israel could have been if they had trusted the Word of God instead of believing the report of the ten spies.

We too have a choice, we can choose to be like the many Israelites who found fault with everything. Or we can choose to be like Caleb and Joshua whose faith in God's Word overcame all fears and frustrations. In the midst of giant problems, the Holy Spirit is available to all who put their faith in the Lord to overcome their giants. " Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace;Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God: Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints;" (Ephesians 6:14-1

.

Today's Psalm: 40:10
"I have not hid thy righteousness within my heart; I have declared thy faithfulness and thy salvation: I have not concealed thy lovingkindness and thy truth from the great congregation."

Have a wonderful and blessed night/day.
God bless,
Christina

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aspiritual Bible Study: Is It Love Mar 3rd, 2009 2:27:11 am - Subscribe

Hello My Friend/Guest,

Today is Monday March 3, 2009 and we are continuing our studies on the book of Deuteronomy. Please read Chapters 3 & 4 in your Bible. You can also Click Here to read the chapters, if the link does not work you can copy & paste this link into your browser: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Deuteronomy%203-4&version=9

Today's Message: Is it Love?
Our world is often confused as to the difference between love and lust. Real love gives, but lust always takes.

As Moses continued his speech to the new generation of Israelites he reminded them that living according to God's Word would bring lasting fulfillment. He began to explain the Law that God had given their parents 40 years earlier at Mount Sinai. "Now therefore hearken, O Israel, unto the statutes and unto the judgments, which I teach you, for to do them, that ye may live, and go in and possess the land which the LORD God of your fathers giveth you. Ye shall not add unto the word which I command you, neither shall ye diminish ought from it, that ye may keep the commandments of the LORD your God which I command you." (Deuteronomy 4:1-2). The one essential requirement for lasting fulfillment was obedience to God's Word.

The new generation who had grown up in the wilderness realized the reason their parents failed to enter the promised land was because they did not obey God regardless of how many blessings that they were given. "When thou art in tribulation, and all these things are come upon thee, even in the latter days, if thou turn to the LORD thy God, and shalt be obedient unto his voice; (For the LORD thy God is a merciful God

he will not forsake thee, neither destroy thee, nor forget the covenant of thy fathers which he sware unto them. For ask now of the days that are past, which were before thee, since the day that God created man upon the earth, and ask from the one side of heaven unto the other, whether there hath been any such thing as this great thing is, or hath been heard like it? Did ever people hear the voice of God speaking out of the midst of the fire, as thou hast heard, and live? Or hath God assayed to go and take him a nation from the midst of another nation, by temptations, by signs, and by wonders, and by war, and by a mighty hand, and by a stretched out arm, and by great terrors, according to all that the LORD your God did for you in Egypt before your eyes? Unto thee it was shewed, that thou mightest know that the LORD he is God; there is none else beside him." (4:30-35). Now, the desert wanderings ceased as they settled into the west side of the Jordan within the promised land. Houses replaced the tents and produce from the land replaced the manna but, most precious of all, they experienced a new revelation of God, the revelation of His love!

From creation in the Book of Genesis to the Book of Numbers, the love of God was never made known until it was revealed in this book. For the first time during the hundreds of years of recorded history they heard, "And because he loved thy fathers, therefore he chose their seed after them, and brought thee out in his sight with his mighty power out of Egypt; To drive out nations from before thee greater and mightier than thou art, to bring thee in, to give thee their land for an inheritance, as it is this day." (4:37-3

. Love is the holiest motive from which God or man can act.

To feel accepted, wanted, and loved is everyone's desire, but we will be faced with many people in our lives who will try to take our love for granted. True love is unconditional, not wanting or expecting something in return. Jesus loved us unconditionally when He gave His life for us so that we could have life eternally. "But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him." (Romans 5:8-9).

Today's Psalm: 91:14-15
"Because he hath set his love upon me, therefore will I deliver him: I will set him on high, because he hath known my name. He shall call upon me, and I will answer him: I will be with him in trouble; I will deliver him, and honour him."

Today's Prayer:
Dear God,
There is a place of quiet rest and spiritual uplifting when we draw near to You. So many activities, attractions, and affections rival for our attention, but when we prioritize by giving You first place we give opportunity for You to show your love to a thousand generations of those who love you and keep your commandments. We want to continually offer to You a sacrifice of praise through our lips that confess Your name and through our lives that reveal Your transforming power at work within us. We do this through the power of Your Holy Spirit. In Jesus' name........Amen.

Have a wonderful night/day and have a blessed week.
God bless,
Christina

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aspiritual Bible Study: True Wealth Mar 4th, 2009 2:29:34 am - Subscribe

Hello My Friend/Guest,

Today is Tuesday March 3, 2009 and we are continuing out studies on the book of Deuteronomy. Please read chapters 5-7 in your Bible. You can Click Here to read the chapters online or you can copy and paste this link into your browser: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Deuteronomy5-7&version=9

Today's Message: True Wealth
True wealth does not come from money, fame, or fortune, it comes from God alone.

Moses reminded the new generation of Israelites of the Lord's Covenant. "And Moses called all Israel, and said unto them, Hear, O Israel, the statutes and judgments which I speak in your ears this day, that ye may learn them, and keep, and do them. The LORD our God made a covenant with us in Horeb. The LORD made not this covenant with our fathers, but with us, even us, who are all of us here alive this day. The LORD talked with you face to face in the mount out of the midst of the fire, (I stood between the LORD and you at that time, to shew you the word of the LORD: for ye were afraid by reason of the fire, and went not up into the mount

saying, I am the LORD thy God, which brought thee out of the land of Egypt, from the house of bondage." (Deuteronomy 5:1-6).

Moses anticipated the pitfalls that prosperity would bring once the Israelites inherited the land of plenty so he wanted to prepare them. "And it shall be, when the LORD thy God shall have brought thee into the land which he sware unto thy fathers, to Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob, to give thee great and goodly cities, which thou buildedst not, And houses full of all good things, which thou filledst not, and wells digged, which thou diggedst not, vineyards and olive trees, which thou plantedst not; when thou shalt have eaten and be full; Then beware lest thou forget the LORD, which brought thee forth out of the land of Egypt, from the house of bondage. Thou shalt fear the LORD thy God, and serve him, and shalt swear by his name." (6:10-13). We are to be content with what God has entrusted to us. It is easier to weep with those who weep than to rejoice with those who have gained more blessings than we have.

Moses warned the Israelites not to forget how God had miraculously delivered them from Egyptian slavery and provided for their every need during their wilderness journey. "And when thy son asketh thee in time to come, saying, What mean the testimonies, and the statutes, and the judgments, which the LORD our God hath commanded you? Then thou shalt say unto thy son, We were Pharaoh's bondmen in Egypt; and the LORD brought us out of Egypt with a mighty hand: And the LORD shewed signs and wonders, great and sore, upon Egypt, upon Pharaoh, and upon all his household, before our eyes: And he brought us out from thence, that he might bring us in, to give us the land which he sware unto our fathers. And the LORD commanded us to do all these statutes, to fear the LORD our God, for our good always, that he might preserve us alive, as it is at this day." (6:20-24). True wealth has nothing to do with how much money we have, how much we own, or how popular we are with the crowd. All those things are superficial, always wanting us to desire more. "Treasures of wickedness profit nothing: but righteousness delivereth from death." (Proverbs 10:2).

However, true wealth is spiritual and consists of what we are and not what we have. "And seek not ye what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink, neither be ye of doubtful mind. For all these things do the nations of the world seek after: and your Father knoweth that ye have need of these things. But rather seek ye the kingdom of God; and all these things shall be added unto you. Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom. Sell that ye have, and give alms; provide yourselves bags which wax not old, a treasure in the heavens that faileth not, where no thief approacheth, neither moth corrupteth. For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also." (Luke 12:29-34). We need to seek God first, He knows exactly what we are in need of and will make sure we get it. One thing we do need to do is talk to Him about our needs and let Him know that we acknowledge Him. Keep doing that and all things will be given to us.

Today's Psalm: 19:9-10
"The fear of the LORD is clean, enduring for ever: the judgments of the LORD are true and righteous altogether. More to be desired are they than gold, yea, than much fine gold: sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb."

Today's Prayer:
Dear God,
You grow and stretch our maturity through circumstances that don’t always reflect our choosing. It helps us to gain needed perspective and experience in situations not of our own choosing, but to our overall benefit. Help us to be patient as we search Your Scripture and seek to understand Your plan as it unfolds in our lives. Align our desires with Your own as we submit our will to Yours. May we not be overcome by adversity, but ask You, Father, to use adversity as a tool by which You carve Your image and character deep into our hearts. We may make our plans, but we realize that, as Your children, You will have the final say in what we do. In Jesus' name......Amen.

Have a wonderful night/day and a blessed week.
God bless,
Christina

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aspiritual Bible Study: False Prophets Mar 5th, 2009 3:02:46 am - Subscribe

Hello My Friend/Guest,

Today is Wednesday March 4, 2009 and we are continuing our studies on the book of Deuteronomy. Please read chapters 8-10 in your Bible, you can also Click Here to read them online. If the link does not work you can copy and paste this link into your browser:
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Deuteronomy%208-10&version=9

Today's Message: False Prophets
During our Christian walk we are going to be constantly confronted by false prophets (people who know just enough Scripture to confuse us), causing us to doubt God's abilities.

Jesus began His earthly ministry by quoting from the book of Deuteronomy, "that he might make thee know that man doth not live by bread only, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of the LORD doth man live." (Deuteronomy 8:3b). This was His response to Satan, who tempted Him to make bread for Himself from stones after His 40-day fast. "And when the tempter came to him, he said, If thou be the Son of God, command that these stones be made bread." (Matthew 4:3). Satan was saying, if you are God's son, why should You, of all people, go hungry? However, Jesus knew that he was trying to tempt Him. "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." (Matthew 4:4). Even Jesus was not exempt from Satan's tricks.
The closer you get to God the more Satan will try to tempt you and pull you away from Him.

Satan tried to tempt Jesus two more times, " Then the devil taketh him up into the holy city, and setteth him on a pinnacle of the temple, And saith unto him, If thou be the Son of God, cast thyself down: for it is written, He shall give his angels charge concerning thee: and in their hands they shall bear thee up, lest at any time thou dash thy foot against a stone. Jesus said unto him, It is written again, Thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God. Again, the devil taketh him up into an exceeding high mountain, and sheweth him all the kingdoms of the world, and the glory of them; And saith unto him, All these things will I give thee, if thou wilt fall down and worship me.Then saith Jesus unto him, Get thee hence, Satan: for it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve. Then the devil leaveth him, and, behold, angels came and ministered unto him." (Matthew 4:5-11). Satan quoted Scripture, but only the portion that would apply to his temptation. Jesus again quoted Deuteronomy after the second temptation, saying, "Thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God."

Do not be surprised or deceived when false prophets quote Scripture to support their agenda. By quoting Scripture, Satan attempted to lure Jesus into using His Deity to satisfy His ego, and thereby abolishing His position as fully Man, qualified to redeem the world. A vital key to overcoming Satan is knowing God's Word and it is the only means needed to defeat him. As we continue reading all of God's Word, the Holy Spirit brings it to our minds when it is needed, empowering us to overcome any temptation.

Moses continues his speech to the new generation of Israelites, he reminded them of how faithless their parents were. "Remember, and forget not, how thou provokedst the LORD thy God to wrath in the wilderness: from the day that thou didst depart out of the land of Egypt, until ye came unto this place, ye have been rebellious against the LORD..........And the LORD said unto me, Arise, get thee down quickly from hence; for thy people which thou hast brought forth out of Egypt have corrupted themselves; they are quickly turned aside out of the way which I commanded them; they have made them a molten image. Furthermore the LORD spake unto me, saying, I have seen this people, and, behold, it is a stiffnecked people: Let me alone, that I may destroy them, and blot out their name from under heaven: and I will make of thee a nation mightier and greater than they.........Ye have been rebellious against the LORD from the day that I knew you. Thus I fell down before the LORD forty days and forty nights, as I fell down at the first; because the LORD had said he would destroy you. I prayed therefore unto the LORD, and said, O Lord GOD, destroy not thy people and thine inheritance, which thou hast redeemed through thy greatness, which thou hast brought forth out of Egypt with a mighty hand." (Deuteronomy 9:7,12-14, 24-26). Forty years before, Israel had sworn allegiance to God and vowed to obey His commands, instead they chose to create their own god because they were too impatient to wait for God.

Still today, God's children are suffering because they chose to handle things on their own rather than wait patiently for God. We do not have to suffer nor do we have to keep worrying about getting the things we need. God provides us with everything if we just have faith and trust in Him. "And seek not ye what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink, neither be ye of doubtful mind. For all these things do the nations of the world seek after: and your Father knoweth that ye have need of these things. But rather seek ye the kingdom of God; and all these things shall be added unto you." (Luke 12:29-31).

Today's Psalm:1:3
"And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper."

Today's Prayer:
Dear God,
Help me to remain faithful to You and your calling upon my life. Strengthen and grow my faith as I daily search Your Scriptures and apply their truths to my spiritual walk. As I go through the trials and experiences of my earthly journey would You fix my eyes and my ever-wandering heart upon Jesus. When the howling winds and forceful storms of this life attempt to shipwreck my faith may they instead prove my faith to be more than sufficient to withstand the continual assaults from the enemy. Because I take refuge in Jesus my spiritual foundation is firm, always dependable, and leads me to glorious victory. In Jesus name........Amen.

Have a wonderful and blessed day/night and rest of the week.
God Bless,
Christina

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aspiritual Bible Study: Giving Tithe Mar 7th, 2009 1:56:07 pm - Subscribe

Hello My Friend/Guest,

Today is Friday March 6, 2009 and we are continuing our studies on the book of Deuteronomy. Please read chapters 14-16 in your Bible. You can also Click Here to read the chapters. If the link does not work you can copy and paste this link into your browser: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Deuteronomy%2014-16&version=9

Today's Message: Giving Tithe
Giving to God should not be done just to receive a blessing, but it certainly is a blessing to be able to give to the Ministry of God.

The prosperity of Israel in the promised land did not depend on advanced agricultural techniques, but on obedience to the Word of God. The Israelites were taught to tithe on all that they received. "Thou shalt truly tithe all the increase of thy seed, that the field bringeth forth year by year. And thou shalt eat before the LORD thy God, in the place which he shall choose to place his name there, the tithe of thy corn, of thy wine, and of thine oil, and the firstlings of thy herds and of thy flocks; that thou mayest learn to fear the LORD thy God always. And if the way be too long for thee, so that thou art not able to carry it; or if the place be too far from thee, which the LORD thy God shall choose to set his name there, when the LORD thy God hath blessed thee: Then shalt thou turn it into money, and bind up the money in thine hand, and shalt go unto the place which the LORD thy God shall choose: And thou shalt bestow that money for whatsoever thy soul lusteth after, for oxen, or for sheep, or for wine, or for strong drink, or for whatsoever thy soul desireth: and thou shalt eat there before the LORD thy God, and thou shalt rejoice, thou, and thine household," (Deuteronomy 14:22-26). The principle of tithing was made known through Abraham over six hundred years before the laws of giving were revealed to Moses. Jacob also tithed to acknowledge his gratitude to God, the Provider of all his blessings.

The Israelites were not only taught to bring their tithes to the Lord as a spiritual and moral obligation, but they were to rejoice with a heartfelt appreciation for the privilege of honoring God with their tithes and offerings. Tithing reminded the Israelites that they, as well as the land, belonged to the Lord. Since all they possessed was the result of His loving provision, before all other considerations, their tithes to the Lord were to be given first. Furthermore, no Israelite could come before the Lord without an offering commensurate with his income. To merely bring leftovers or a small part of one's tithe would be an expression of disobedience and ingratitude. "Every man shall give as he is able, according to the blessing of the LORD thy God which he hath given thee. Judges and officers shalt thou make thee in all thy gates, which the LORD thy God giveth thee, throughout thy tribes: and they shall judge the people with just judgment. Thou shalt not wrest judgment; thou shalt not respect persons, neither take a gift: for a gift doth blind the eyes of the wise, and pervert the words of the righteous. That which is altogether just shalt thou follow, that thou mayest live, and inherit the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee." (16:17-20).

Although the Law commanded the Israelites to present their tithes to God no legal penalty was stated for those who failed to do so. The giving of the tithe was a testimony of love for God and an acknowledgment that He is truly the owner of all things. This offering was to be a voluntary expression of love. But the blessings of God would be withheld from all who selfishly withheld their tithes, whether rich or the poor.

Today, the Lord's ministries, missionaries, churches, Bible schools, translators, and other agencies are being sustained through the tithes and offerings of His people. To Israel, their only place to bring their tithes and offerings was the Temple. For the Church, Christ's Body on earth, tithes should be given to support the ministry of the Word and where one receives spiritual nurturing through the Word of God.

By the way, giving tithe is more than just giving money, some people do not have income coming in, in this case a tithe would be giving 10% of your time to God or the church, giving food or clothes that you do not need or wear any longer. Tithing is not about money, it's about acknowledging God and thanking Him for what you do have. " But this I say, He which soweth sparingly shall reap also sparingly; and he which soweth bountifully shall reap also bountifully. Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver. And God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work: (As it is written, He hath dispersed abroad; he hath given to the poor: his righteousness remaineth for ever.Now he that ministereth seed to the sower both minister bread for your food, and multiply your seed sown, and increase the fruits of your righteousness

Being enriched in every thing to all bountifulness, which causeth through us thanksgiving to God." (II Corinthians 9:6-11).

Today's Psalm: 37:4
"Delight thyself also in the LORD: and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart."

Today's Prayer:
Dear Lord,
In thanksgiving we lift our voices of praise from grateful hearts, Father, as we sing songs of praise and adoration to You, our blessed King. Whether in seasons of prosperity or in seasons of want we find Your grace sufficient to meet each one of our needs. You guide us, protect us, and You provide for us as we journey here below. I thank You for every good and perfect gift comes from Your hand. In Jesus' name.....................Amen.

Have a wonderful and blessed day/night and weekend.
God Bless,
Christina

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aspiritual Bible Study: Spiritual Weapons Mar 8th, 2009 3:28:24 am - Subscribe

Hello My Friend/Guest,

Today is Saturday March 7, 2009 and we are continuing our studies on the book of Deuteronomy. Please read chapters 17-20 in your Bible, you can also Click Here to read them online. If the link does not work you can copy & paste this one into your browser: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Deuteronomy%2017-20&version=9

Today's Message: Spiritual Weapons
God has provided us with spiritual weapons, but it takes practice to know how to use them. Just like using a sword, reading the Word of God only once is not enough.

Even kings are not above the laws of God as revealed in His Word. Every Israelite king was commanded to read the Law of God every day. "Thou shalt in any wise set him king over thee, whom the LORD thy God shall choose: one from among thy brethren shalt thou set king over thee: thou mayest not set a stranger over thee, which is not thy brother......... And it shall be, when he sitteth upon the throne of his kingdom, that he shall write him a copy of this law in a book out of that which is before the priests the Levites: And it shall be with him, and he shall read therein all the days of his life: that he may learn to fear the LORD his God, to keep all the words of this law and these statutes, to do them:" (Deuteronomy 17:15,18-19).

The Canaanites were idolaters who worshiped false gods, they became involved in many sins that God hates. God warned the Israelites to stay away from those people. "When thou art come into the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee, thou shalt not learn to do after the abominations of those nations. There shall not be found among you any one that maketh his son or his daughter to pass through the fire, or that useth divination, or an observer of times, or an enchanter, or a witch. Or a charmer, or a consulter with familiar spirits, or a wizard, or a necromancer. For all that do these things are an abomination unto the LORD: and because of these abominations the LORD thy God doth drive them out from before thee. Thou shalt be perfect with the LORD thy God." (18:9-13).

Christians are in a spiritual battle against a far greater enemy than the Canaanites. Satan, the enemy of our souls, seeks to defeat, defile, and destroy every true worshiper of the One True God. We need to constantly be on guard and seek Jesus through all of our afflictions. "Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: Whom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world. But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you." (I Peter 5:8-10).

We have a powerful weapon to shield us from Satan, the Word of God. "Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God: Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints;" (Ephesians 6:14-1

.

It is very important that we get acquainted with our weapon and the only way to do that is to read it regularly. God has designed the Bible in a way that each time we read even a verse we get a new and different meaning of what God wants us to understand. He knows that if we try to take it in too much that we would never comprehend it, that is why He teaches us a little at a time instead of all at once. Now, put on your armor and watch how it protects you.

Today's Psalm: 119:88-89
"Quicken me after thy lovingkindness; so shall I keep the testimony of thy mouth. For ever, O LORD, thy word is settled in heaven."

Today's Prayer:
Dear God,
We earnestly seek You for wisdom regarding the daily circumstances of our lives. Help us to incline our hearts toward You for understanding all that You have to teach us in the lessons of life. During the quiet sessions when Your voice seems silent help us to trust You knowing that You work all things out for our good, for Your glory, and in Your time reference. In Jesus name..................Amen.

Have a wonderful night/day and enjoy the rest of your weekend. Do not forget to set your clocks 1 hour forward tonight.

God bless you,
Christina

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aspiritual Bible Study: Be A Good Neighbor Mar 9th, 2009 10:14:06 pm - Subscribe

Hello My Friend/Guest,

Today is Sunday March 8, 2009 and we are continuing our studies on the book of Deuteronomy, please read chapters 21-23 in your Bible. You can also Click Here to read them online, if the link does not work you can copy and paste this link into your browser: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Deuteronomy%2021-23&version=9

Today's Message: Be A Good Neighbor
This world believes that it is every man for himself, but this selfish principle is never taught in the Word of God.

The Israelites had been taught that, because God had created all things, everything belonged to Him and they were only caretakers of His possessions. Because of their Covenant relationship with the Lord, they even were responsible for the welfare of their neighbor's property. "Thou shalt not see thy brother's ox or his sheep go astray, and hide thyself from them: thou shalt in any case bring them again unto thy brother. And if thy brother be not nigh unto thee, or if thou know him not, then thou shalt bring it unto thine own house, and it shall be with thee until thy brother seek after it, and thou shalt restore it to him again. In like manner shalt thou do with his ass; and so shalt thou do with his raiment; and with all lost thing of thy brother's, which he hath lost, and thou hast found, shalt thou do likewise: thou mayest not hide thyself. Thou shalt not see thy brother's ass or his ox fall down by the way, and hide thyself from them: thou shalt surely help him to lift them up again." (Deuteronomy 22:1-4). Under the laws of most countries, we would not be held legally responsible for failing to prevent someones financial loss. However, our stewardship responsibility to God requires that we respond to others needs in a spirit of Christ-like love.

Even when an Israelite built a house, he was required to put a railing around the flat roof to protect anyone from accidentally falling off the roof, which was often used as a patio. This was not an option, but was required. "When thou buildest a new house, then thou shalt make a battlement for thy roof, that thou bring not blood upon thine house, if any man fall from thence." (22:

. This railing, called a battlement, is symbolic of our responsibility to be our brother's keeper. If the Lord is that concerned in the building of a mere house to ensure the physical well-being of its neighbors, surely Christians should be concerned about making certain that their opportunities to help others are not overlooked.

In Jesus' Sermon on the Mount, He taught His followers to go far beyond merely helping preserve the property of a friend or neighbor. "But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you; That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust." (Matthew 5:44-45). As Jesus' disciples we must do the same. We can not have a cold heart towards others regardless of how we are treated. It may not be easy to help those who love to cause problems for others, but we are unaware of what they are actually going through. Instead of returning hatred toward them, try praying for them, often it is the best that we can do for them.

Jesus illustrated this by speaking a parable, "But he, willing to justify himself, said unto Jesus, And who is my neighbour? And Jesus answering said, A certain man went down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and fell among thieves, which stripped him of his raiment, and wounded him, and departed, leaving him half dead. And by chance there came down a certain priest that way: and when he saw him, he passed by on the other side. And likewise a Levite, when he was at the place, came and looked on him, and passed by on the other side. But a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where he was: and when he saw him, he had compassion on him, And went to him, and bound up his wounds, pouring in oil and wine, and set him on his own beast, and brought him to an inn, and took care of him." (Luke 10:29-34). Perhaps they had completed their religious responsibilities in Jerusalem and were on their way home to Jericho, where many of the Levite's and priests lived. To stop and help this man could have defiled them and made them ceremonially unclean or, perhaps, they felt he was undeserving to be taken care of. However, the Samaritan man wasn't looking for excuses to avoid giving aid or questioning whether the hurting man was deserving of help. Instead, this outcast, who was much despised by the religious Jews, demonstrated Christlike love and had compassion on the man.

Now, I understand that there are just some people out there that we just need to stay away from, we are just not urged to dwell with them. However, our responsibility is not to the person who needs our help, but to our Lord, who is the true Owner of all creation, and who provides us with the opportunities to express His love to the lost and unloved. The person we help may or may not appreciate or even deserve the kindness we express, but by expressing that love we are not only providing an opportunity for them to get saved we are being blessed as well. Think of the blessings that you have received simply by facing one of the most difficult people you have ever met.

Today's Psalm: 146:5-9
"Happy is he that hath the God of Jacob for his help, whose hope is in the LORD his God: Which made heaven, and earth, the sea, and all that therein is: which keepeth truth for ever: Which executeth judgment for the oppressed: which giveth food to the hungry. The LORD looseth the prisoners: The LORD openeth the eyes of the blind: the LORD raiseth them that are bowed down: the LORD loveth the righteous: The LORD preserveth the strangers; he relieveth the fatherless and widow: but the way of the wicked he turneth upside down."

Today's Prayer:
Dear Lord,
Jesus, We know that none of us are 100% humble, for we are clothed in these mortal, fallible bodies. But we do know that You are completely humble and we look to You as our example. As we clothe ourselves in Your righteousness we can overcome the pride that is ever before us. We recognize that no good thing can come from us, but all that is good comes from You. Remind us daily that gratitude is the antidote for feelings of pride. When we acknowledge that everything we have and all that we are is due to Your merciful blessings we are humbled and grateful to You, the Giver of every good and perfect gift. In Jesus' name.................Amen.

Have a wonderful night/day and enjoy your week.

God Bless You,
Christina

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aspiritual Bible Study: Our Own Enemy Mar 10th, 2009 11:20:32 am - Subscribe

Hello My Friend/Guest,

Today is Monday March 9, 2009 and we are continuing our studies on the book of Deuteronomy, please read chapters 24-27 in your Bible. You can also Click Here to read them online. If the link does not work you can copy and paste this link into your browser: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Deuteronomy%2024-27&version=9

Today's Message: Our Own Enemy
A person will not be a Christian long before he realizes that his old nature is a powerful enemy.

Moses, the lawgiver and prophet, placed great emphasis on the necessity of honesty and truthfulness in all areas of life. When presenting the Law, he warned against two sets of weights and measures, one for buying and the other for selling. "Thou shalt not have in thine house divers measures, a great and a small. But thou shalt have a perfect and just weight, a perfect and just measure shalt thou have: that thy days may be lengthened in the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee." (Deuteronomy 25:14-15). The phrase divers measures means that they were not to have more of one than the other.

God hates lying and thievery. Each of us has the opportunity to exercise the principles of justice and equity or to take advantage of others. There are various forms of dishonesty such as wasting time on the job, taking what doesn't belong to us, unethically conducting business, lying, and committing fraud. Our conduct with others goes much deeper than either word or deed; it goes to the hidden motives of our hearts and reveals what we truly are.

Jesus said that the things that are in our heart bring evil, "And he said, That which cometh out of the man, that defileth the man. For from within, out of the heart of men, proceed evil thoughts, adulteries, fornications, murders, Thefts, covetousness, wickedness, deceit, lasciviousness, an evil eye, blasphemy, pride, foolishness: All these evil things come from within, and defile the man." (Mark 7:20-23). What this means is that our heart deceives us, it causes us to do evil things because of our fleshly emotions. It is important that we are guided by the spirit and not the heart, only then can we know right from wrong. The thoughts of a Christian should always be the expression of what Jesus would do.

The attitude of fairness and consideration for others well-being applies to a Christian's daily relationship with God and others. It is possible to have bitter thoughts while doing kind deeds and to say loving words while having wrong attitudes and motives. But, our self-serving conduct can be overcome by the Christ-centered nature that He has bestowed within us. The self-centered "I" must give way to Christ and His control if we are to have the right relationships.

Today's Psalm: 101:2-4
"I will behave myself wisely in a perfect way. O when wilt thou come unto me? I will walk within my house with a perfect heart. I will set no wicked thing before mine eyes: I hate the work of them that turn aside; it shall not cleave to me. A froward heart shall depart from me: I will not know a wicked person."

Today's Prayer:
Dear God,
We need the prompting of Your Holy Spirit to keep us in check regarding our conduct toward others. May we not dismiss our improper behavior by blaming it on our upbringing or make up other excuses. Instead we take responsibility for our behavior as we want to glorify you and be a blessing to others. Would You help us to love people as we want to be loved. Help us to give the benefit of the doubt as we want others to give us. Help us to be quick to forgive and slow to anger. May we treat others in the same way that we ourselves want to be treated. In Jesus' name.........Amen.

Have wonderful and blessed night/day.
God Bless,
Christina

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aspiritual Bible Study: Submitting to God Mar 11th, 2009 11:52:02 am - Subscribe

Hello My Friend/Guest,

Today is Wednesday March 11, 2009 and we are continuing our studies on the book of Deuteronomy. Please read chapter 28 in your Bible or you can Click Here to read it online. If the link does not work you can copy and paste this link into your browser: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?book_id=5&chapter=28&version=9

Today' Message: Submitting To God
Many people feel that being submissive is a sign of weakness, but the children of God know that obedience to the Word of God is the source of their strength.

Moses' final appeal to the Israelite nation was to get them to understand that their security in Canaan depended upon them being submissive to God. He related the the blessings that they people would receive by doing so. " And it shall come to pass, if thou shalt hearken diligently unto the voice of the LORD thy God, to observe and to do all his commandments which I command thee this day, that the LORD thy God will set thee on high above all nations of the earth: And all these blessings shall come on thee, and overtake thee, if thou shalt hearken unto the voice of the LORD thy God. Blessed shalt thou be in the city, and blessed shalt thou be in the field.Blessed shall be the fruit of thy body, and the fruit of thy ground, and the fruit of thy cattle, the increase of thy kine, and the flocks of thy sheep. Blessed shall be thy basket and thy store. Blessed shalt thou be when thou comest in, and blessed shalt thou be when thou goest out." (Deuteronomy 28:1-6). The Israelites could choose either to live as His Word directed and enjoy the Lord's blessings or to reject His Word, as their parents had done, and suffer the consequences.

Then he solemnly warned them of what those consequences will be if they chose to live a life of sin. "The LORD shall send upon thee cursing, vexation, and rebuke, in all that thou settest thine hand unto for to do, until thou be destroyed, and until thou perish quickly; because of the wickedness of thy doings, whereby thou hast forsaken me." (28:20). There are almost four times as many verses that warn of the curses resulting from disobedience than of the blessings resulting from obedience. The obvious conclusion to be drawn from God's Word is that each sin has a consequence and it definitely does not effect only the person, but those around them.

Many people fear submitting to God because they see these verses about curses and death and think that He is cruel saying, how can God love us with when He causes so much pain? The truth is that God does not cause the pain, we do. The suffering and pain that we endure often comes from our own doing, the guilt alone causes much of the suffering all on it's own.

We are so blessed today because we no longer have to fear being stoned for doing things that we know are morally wrong. The powerful blood of Jesus saves us form all our sins, in fact we were saved from them even before we knew that we were going to commit them. And all we have to do to be forgiven is confess our sins, then they are wiped away, never to been seen again. Of course that does not mean that we will not endure the consequences for them.

I will point out that this fact can be misapplied, often we are faced with affliction that has nothing to do with sin. Jesus explained that sometimes we are just faced with affliction in order to bring us closer to Him. "And as Jesus passed by, he saw a man which was blind from his birth. And his disciples asked him, saying, Master, who did sin, this man, or his parents, that he was born blind? Jesus answered, Neither hath this man sinned, nor his parents: but that the works of God should be made manifest in him." (John 9:1-3). What seemed to be a curse became a blessing, for it brought this man to his Savior.

So, how do you know if you are being chastised or tested? You know by submitting to God. No matter what, all things work together for good, one may be faced with affliction, but through it all God will increase their blessings as they grow closer to Him. "And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose." (Romans 8:2

.

Today's Psalm: 66:2-4
"Sing forth the honour of his name: make his praise glorious. Say unto God, How terrible art thou in thy works! through the greatness of thy power shall thine enemies submit themselves unto thee. All the earth shall worship thee, and shall sing unto thee; they shall sing to thy name. Selah."

Today's Prayer:
Dear God,
Thank You for enlisting us as Your servants in the kingdom of God here on earth. You do not require a royal title or a seminary degree as a prerequisite in advancing Your kingdom. You look for willing hearts whose love and commitment to Christ spill over into their words and actions in every setting in which they’re found. May we be eager to diligently study Your Word so that we can effectively serve You in reaching others through the opportunities provided us. Thank You for the many who are faithful examples of lives that are fully yielded to Your purpose as they glorify You while influencing others for the Kingdom. In Jesus' name...........Amen.

Have a wonderful day/night.
God bless,
Christina

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aspiritual Bible Study: Preparing The Way Mar 13th, 2009 1:55:07 am - Subscribe

Hello My Friend/Guest,

Today is Thursday March 12, 2009 and we are completing our studies on the book of Deuteronomy. Please read chapters 32-34 in your Bible, or you can click here to read them online. If the link does not work you can copy and paste this link into your browser: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Deuteronomy%2032-34&version=9

Today's Message: Preparing The Way
We need to never worry nor fear; God knows how to prepare us for the tests and trials that come each day.

The Song of Moses, led the Israelites to proclaim the greatness of God, but it also warns against provoking Him. "Give ear, O ye heavens, and I will speak; and hear, O earth, the words of my mouth. My doctrine shall drop as the rain, my speech shall distil as the dew, as the small rain upon the tender herb, and as the showers upon the grass: Because I will publish the name of the LORD: ascribe ye greatness unto our God. He is the Rock, his work is perfect: for all his ways are judgment: a God of truth and without iniquity, just and right is he. They have corrupted themselves, their spot is not the spot of his children: they are a perverse and crooked generation." (Deuteronomy 32:1-5). To illustrate an important truth, God has chosen the insignificant, but very important dew.

The purpose of dew is to maintain life during dry seasons. Only living things benefit from the dew. It does nothing for stones nor dead leaves, but is spontaneously absorbed by wilted plants, restoring them to life. It does not come in as showers, but descends gently and softly during the dark of night when we are not aware that it is falling. When morning comes, everything is refreshed and prepared for the heat of the day. This illustrates how God's Word gently and unnoticeably renews us, refreshens us, and brings life back to a dry soul.
Moses foretold of the blessings and happiness that would be theirs if they lived in obedience to the Word of God. "The eternal God is thy refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms: and he shall thrust out the enemy from before thee; and shall say, Destroy them. Israel then shall dwell in safety alone: the fountain of Jacob shall be upon a land of corn and wine; also his heavens shall drop down dew. Happy art thou, O Israel: who is like unto thee, O people saved by the LORD, the shield of thy help, and who is the sword of thy excellency! and thine enemies shall be found liars unto thee; and thou shalt tread upon their high places." (33:27-29). After conferring spiritual blessings upon the tribes, Moses concluded with praise to God.

It has been written that there has not been another prophet as great as Moses. "And there arose not a prophet since in Israel like unto Moses, whom the LORD knew face to face, In all the signs and the wonders, which the LORD sent him to do in the land of Egypt to Pharaoh, and to all his servants, and to all his land, And in all that mighty hand, and in all the great terror which Moses shewed in the sight of all Israel." (34:10-12). Although it has been written that no other prophet knew God face to face
he forfeited the privilege of leading Israel into Canaan because of his sin (See Numbers 20:1-13).

Moses' life had been almost perfect. However, even though he had been the Lord's lawgiver, he had also broken the Law once, and the Law did not permit exceptions. Moses is last seen alone, climbing one of the most prominent mountain peaks in Moab from which he was allowed to view the promised land, though he could not enter it. Moses' penalty illustrates that even forgiveness of sin does not remove its earthly consequences. Centuries later, Moses, symbolizing God's Law, stood on Mount Hermon in the promised land along with Elijah, who symbolized the prophets of God. Together they talked with Jesus as He transformed before three of His disciples. "And after six days Jesus taketh Peter, James, and John his brother, and bringeth them up into an high mountain apart, And was transfigured before them: and his face did shine as the sun, and his raiment was white as the light. And, behold, there appeared unto them Moses and Elias talking with him." (Matthew 17:1-3).

Moses became an example for all of Israel as well as us today that God is holy and cannot allow His Law to be broken without consequences, no matter how much one is used of God. Do not mistake Salvation for disobedience, yes we are saved from an eternal fire (those who accept Christ), but that does not mean we will not suffer the consequences for our sins. Follow God, trust Him and let Him prepare the way for you.

Today's Psalm: 103:18-19
"To such as keep his covenant, and to those that remember his commandments to do them. The LORD hath prepared his throne in the heavens; and his kingdom ruleth over all."

Today's Prayer:
Dear God,
Though others may overlook my significance You are familiar with all my ways. You know the very thoughts that run through my mind and the words that I will speak even before I utter them. You know me from inside out and yet You love me and call me Your very own. That You would love a sinner such as me and redeem me from the pit is too marvelous for words. I humbly and gratefully acknowledge Your goodness and give thanks for Your unfailing love that lifts me from the dark pit of despair and transfers me into Your bright kingdom of light. In Jesus' name............Amen.

Have a wonderful and blessed night/day.
God Bless You,
Christina

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