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aspiritual Bible Study: Faith When Grieving - Subscribe

Faith When Grieving 10.31.08

Hello My Friend/Guest,

Today we are completing our studies on the book of Luke, please read Chapters 23-24 in your Bible or you can Click Here to read them online. If the link does not work you can copy and paste this one to your browser: biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke%2023-24&version=9

Today we will read about Jesus standing before Pilate and Herod; Jesus crucifixion and resurrection; the ministry of the risen Christ, His commission, and His ascension. Today's message focuses on the importance of holding on to Jesus even when we face the death of our loved ones.

"And it was about the sixth hour, and there was a darkness over all the earth until the ninth hour. And the sun was darkened, and the veil of the temple was rent in the midst. And when Jesus had cried with a loud voice, he said, Father, into thy hands I commend my spirit: and having said thus, he gave up the ghost." (Luke 23:44-46).

Some of women who were followers of Jesus watched as their beloved Lord died on the cross. A man named Joseph begged for Jesus body, took it down from the cross, and placed it in a sepulchre that was reserved for him, these women follow Joseph to the sepulchre. "And, behold, there was a man named Joseph, a counsellor; and he was a good man, and a just: (The same had not consented to the counsel and deed of them

he was of Arimathaea, a city of the Jews: who also himself waited for the kingdom of God. This man went unto Pilate, and begged the body of Jesus. And he took it down, and wrapped it in linen, and laid it in a sepulchre that was hewn in stone, wherein never man before was laid. And that day was the preparation, and the sabbath drew on. And the women also, which came with him from Galilee, followed after, and beheld the sepulchre, and how his body was laid. And they returned, and prepared spices and ointments; and rested the sabbath day according to the commandment." (23:50-56). These women had no thought of deserting their Lord in death, even though a hostile crowd had crucified Him.

However, they were greatly concerned about Jesus' body, but soon discovered that their concern had already been taken care of by an angel. "Now upon the first day of the week, very early in the morning, they came unto the sepulchre, bringing the spices which they had prepared, and certain others with them. And they found the stone rolled away from the sepulchre. And they entered in, and found not the body of the Lord Jesus. And it came to pass, as they were much perplexed thereabout, behold, two men stood by them in shining garments: And as they were afraid, and bowed down their faces to the earth, they said unto them, Why seek ye the living among the dead? He is not here, but is risen: remember how he spake unto you when he was yet in Galilee, Saying, The Son of man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men, and be crucified, and the third day rise again." (24:1-7). Full of exitement these women rushed to the apostles to relate their thrilling discovery, "It was Mary Magdalene and Joanna, and Mary the mother of James, and other women that were with them, which told these things unto the apostles." (24:10).

Our love for the Lord Jesus and His Word should enable us to overcome any temptation to be intimidated by unbelievers Neither the women nor the apostles were expecting such a glorious experience on that resurrection morning. God always has better things in store for us, we might face trials or death of loved ones, but He always knows what is best, even when we do not understand. I had an Aunt who went in for minor surgery, the surgery went great and everything was taken care of, but within a day there were complications and she passed away a couple of weeks later. While we grieved I could not help, but think about the peace she was now in as she was not suffering any longer. God did not want her to be laying there with wires and ventilators keeping her physical body alive nor would this once very active woman want to be there either. God sees what we do not see on the surface. "For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, Of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named, That he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man; That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, May be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; And to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God." (Ephesians 3:14-19).

Dear Lord,
When we consider how many struggles, hardships and temptations we face in our lifetime the weight of these difficulties could overwhelm us. Today I am aware some readers are grieving the death of a loved one. God of all Comfort, may you comfort them and give them peace based upon your promises. Remind them that it is in Your resurrection that we stand victorious in the end when we face our last enemy on this side. In Jesus' name.....Amen.

Have a blessed day!
God Bless You,
Christina

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aspiritual Bible Study: All Things Work Together Nov 2nd, 2008 12:07:24 pm - Subscribe

All Things Work Together 11.01.08

Hello My Friend/Guest,

Today we are beginning our studies on the book of John, please read Chapters 1-3 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 to your browser: biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John%201-3&version=9

Today we will read about the Diety of Christ; John the Baptist; Jesus, the Lamb of God; Jesus turning the water into wine; the cleansing of the Temple; and a man named Nicodemus. Today's message focuses on the importance of realizing that regardless of our suffering, sorrows, or tragedies we can be sure that all things work together for good to them that love God.

The book of John is the 4th book of the New Testament, the final book of the Gospels, and contains 21 chapters. The author of the book is John and it was written to All believers, whom John portrays Jesus as the Son of God. The purpose of the book is to convince the people that Jesus was the Messiah, the Son of God, and to lead men to everlasting life. What we are to learn from the book is that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the living God, the only source of salvation and way to everlasting life.

The Gospel of John introduces Jesus as the preexistent, Eternal Word who became one of us, because of this, the Holy Spirit led John to recognize Jesus as God. "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The same was in the beginning with God. All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made. In him was life; and the life was the light of men. And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not." (John 1:1-5).

John portrays Jesus as the Son of God, the Creator of all things and the Perfector of our lives, but He was also known as a Man of sorrows. "He was in the world, and the world was made by him, and the world knew him not. He came unto his own, and his own received him not." (1:10-11). None of us escape sorrows during our lifetime, but, it is during our sorrows, that we are to follow in the footsteps of our Savior. "It is a faithful saying: For if we be dead with him, we shall also live with him: If we suffer, we shall also reign with him: if we deny him, he also will deny us: If we believe not, yet he abideth faithful: he cannot deny himself." (II Timothy 2:11-13).

There was a man named, Nicodemus who was eager to speak with Jesus, he was a member of the Sanhedrin, the council which controlled the religious life of Israel. "There was a man of the Pharisees, named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews: The same came to Jesus by night, and said unto him, Rabbi, we know that thou art a teacher come from God: for no man can do these miracles that thou doest, except God be with him." (John 3:1-2).

Jesus and Nicodemus continue their conversation, "Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God. Nicodemus saith unto him, How can a man be born when he is old? can he enter the second time into his mother's womb, and be born? Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again." (3:3-7).

To illustrate how essential it is to be born again, Jesus reminded him of when the Israelites, near the end of their 40 years of wilderness wandering, once again complained about their circumstances. "Verily, verily, I say unto thee, We speak that we do know, and testify that we have seen; and ye receive not our witness. If I have told you earthly things, and ye believe not, how shall ye believe, if I tell you of heavenly things? And no man hath ascended up to heaven, but he that came down from heaven, even the Son of man which is in heaven. And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of man be lifted up: That whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life." (3:11-15).

The instant we were born as babies we received the sinful nature which was inherited from Adam. However, when we accept Jesus and are born again into the family of God, we receive His divine nature. The one who is born again of the Holy Spirit now loves the things he once ignored, and hates the things he once desired.

Today's Prayer:
Dear Lord,
As I commit myself to You this day, I ask that You make me a glowing ember of Your truth, Your wisdom, and Your compassionate mercy. I want my light to shine for You so that all glory will be directed back to You, my source of light. If I find myself in the midst of a circle of employees engaged in ungodly conversation help me not to blend in. But rather help me to be the light of Your glory in my conversation, full of grace seasoned with salt, so that I will know how to respond to each person. I ask that You would reveal to me any false motivation for carrying out good deeds. Remind me that it is for Your glory that I do these things. It is neither for the praise of others nor for personal advancement, but the advancement of the Gospel. Lord, help me to reach just one today with an unexpected act of kindness that will direct the recipient’s thoughts toward my Father in heaven. In Jesus' name.....Amen.

Have a wonderful and blessed day.
God Bless,
Christina

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aspiritual Bible Study: Satisfy The Soul Nov 3rd, 2008 9:27:00 pm - Subscribe

Satisfy The Soul 11.02.08

Hello My Friend/Guest,

Today we are continuing our studies on the book of John, please read Chapters 4-5 in your Bible or you can Click Here to read them online. Id the link does not work you can copy and paste this link to your browser: biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John%204-5&version=9

Today we will read about Jesus and the Samaritan woman; Jesus' miracles of healing; and Jesus answering the Jews questions. Today's message focuses on the importance of realizing that the only place of true satisfaction is in Christ. The things of the world are only temporal and always leaves us thirsty for more, but Jesus is the living water that that satisfies the soul.

As Jesus and His disciples made their way into Galilee they can through a city named Samaria. While the disciples went into the village to buy food Jesus sat down at Jacob's well. "When therefore the Lord knew how the Pharisees had heard that Jesus made and baptized more disciples than John, (Though Jesus himself baptized not, but his disciples,) He left Judaea, and departed again into Galilee. And he must needs go through Samaria. Then cometh he to a city of Samaria, which is called Sychar, near to the parcel of ground that Jacob gave to his son Joseph. Now Jacob's well was there. Jesus therefore, being wearied with his journey, sat thus on the well: and it was about the sixth hour." (John 4:1-6).

All Samaritan's were despised by the Jews, which is why a woman who approached the well was quite surprised that Jesus asked her for a drink of water. "There cometh a woman of Samaria to draw water: Jesus saith unto her, Give me to drink. (For his disciples were gone away unto the city to buy meat.) Then saith the woman of Samaria unto him, How is it that thou, being a Jew, askest drink of me, which am a woman of Samaria? for the Jews have no dealings with the Samaritans." (4:7-9).

Jesus continued talking to her, showing her that He was not prejudice. "Jesus answered and said unto her, If thou knewest the gift of God, and who it is that saith to thee, Give me to drink; thou wouldest have asked of him, and he would have given thee living water." (4:10). It was no doubt that this woman was astonished by His words revealing Himself as the fulfillment of her great spiritual need, for she was thirsty for something that neither her religion nor the world could satisfy.

The person who continues drinking from the wells of temporal satisfactions will thirst again, they do not satisfy and they never can. The living presence of the Savior in the hearts of all who trust in Him continually satisfies the longings of the soul.

The sheep gate where lambs were bought for sacrifice was located at the northeast area of the Temple court in Jerusalem. It was believed that the first to enter the pool of water after an angel stirred up the water would be cured. Jesus approached this crowd of helpless sufferers, but no one recognized who He was. "Now there is at Jerusalem by the sheep market a pool, which is called in the Hebrew tongue Bethesda, having five porches. In these lay a great multitude of impotent folk, of blind, halt, withered, waiting for the moving of the water. For an angel went down at a certain season into the pool, and troubled the water: whosoever then first after the troubling of the water stepped in was made whole of whatsoever disease he had." (5:2-4).

In this crowd of helpless people was a certain man who could not walk, when this man expressed his hopelessness, Jesus looked beyond the man's physical problem and asked him to do something about it. "And a certain man was there, which had an infirmity thirty and eight years. When Jesus saw him lie, and knew that he had been now a long time in that case, he saith unto him, Wilt thou be made whole? The impotent man answered him, Sir, I have no man, when the water is troubled, to put me into the pool: but while I am coming, another steppeth down before me. Jesus saith unto him, Rise, take up thy bed, and walk. And immediately the man was made whole, and took up his bed, and walked: and on the same day was the sabbath." (5:5-9).

Like this man, anyone who has not trusted in Christ is spiritually helpless. We should be eternally grateful that Jesus did not pass us by, but asked us if we also wanted to be made whole. Jesus cares for the most helpless because He desires that all will recognize Him as Savior and Lord. The helpless includes popular athletes, intellectual leaders such as Nicodemus, pitiful prostitutes like the woman at the well, or any other lost person on the earth.

Today's Prayer:
Dear Lord,
How grateful we are for those who've gone before us showing us the way. They not only instructed us in the ways of the Lord but they lived exemplary lives so that we could see faith in action. We're grateful for their positive examples in our spiritual journey. We even pause to think of those who have taken a wrong direction only to turn away from all they held dear at one time. Would You remind us of the serious consequences of their sinful choices when we're tempted to do the same. We lift those people before You asking the Holy Spirit to convict and guide them back to the Way, the Truth and the Life. In Jesus' name......Amen.

Have a wonderful day and week.
God bless,
Christina

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aspiritual Bible Study: Bread of Life Nov 5th, 2008 12:13:37 am - Subscribe

Bread of Life 11.03.08

Hello My Friend/Guest,

Today we are continuing our studies on the book of John, please read Chapters 6-8 in your Bible or Click Here to read them online. If the link does not work you can copy and paste this one to your browser: biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John%206-8&version=9

Today we will read about Jesus feeding 5,000; the Bread of Life, Jesus; the Feast of the Tabernacles; an adulteress forgiven by Jesus; Jesus, the Light of the World. Today's message focuses on the importance of realizing that until we feed off the Bread of Life we will never satisfy our hungry souls.

Jesus is not just a man who points the way to God's love, He is God, the Bread of Life that forever satisfies the hungry soul. Jesus was questioned by His disciples when He disappeared and did not eat with them. "And when they had found him on the other side of the sea, they said unto him, Rabbi, when camest thou hither? Jesus answered them and said, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Ye seek me, not because ye saw the miracles, but because ye did eat of the loaves, and were filled. Labour not for the meat which perisheth, but for that meat which endureth unto everlasting life, which the Son of man shall give unto you: for him hath God the Father sealed. Then said they unto him, What shall we do, that we might work the works of God? Jesus answered and said unto them, This is the work of God, that ye believe on him whom he hath sent." (John 25-29).

The conversation continues, "They said therefore unto him, What sign shewest thou then, that we may see, and believe thee? what dost thou work? Our fathers did eat manna in the desert; as it is written, He gave them bread from heaven to eat. Then Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Moses gave you not that bread from heaven; but my Father giveth you the true bread from heaven. For the bread of God is he which cometh down from heaven, and giveth life unto the world. Then said they unto him, Lord, evermore give us this bread. And Jesus said unto them, I am the bread of life: he that cometh to me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on me shall never thirst." (John 6:30-35).

When we feed our physical bodies we are content for a short time, but soon after we are in need more to satisfy the hunger once again. Without that nourishment we would starve and not be much good for anything. The same thing happens when we are not regularly feeding off the Word of God. When we are not nourishing our souls we remain hungry and always searching for something to satisfy us. If you stop and think about the obesity rate of the world today you will find that the majority of the people are that way due to emotioanl eating. They are searching for something to comfort and satisfy them physically.

A great thing begins to happen when feed off of Jesus, we not only satisfy our hungry souls we also satisfy our physical needs as well. Of course we still need to nourish our physical bodies, but when the soul is satisfied the less we need to fill full physically.

Jesus walked into the Temple and began teaching, suddenly He was rudely interrupted by the scribes and Pharisees. "Jesus went unto the mount of Olives. And early in the morning he came again into the temple, and all the people came unto him; and he sat down, and taught them. And the scribes and Pharisees brought unto him a woman taken in adultery; and when they had set her in the midst, They say unto him, Master, this woman was taken in adultery, in the very act. Now Moses in the law commanded us, that such should be stoned: but what sayest thou? This they said, tempting him, that they might have to accuse him. But Jesus stooped down, and with his finger wrote on the ground, as though he heard them not. So when they continued asking him, he lifted up himself, and said unto them, He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone at her. And again he stooped down, and wrote on the ground. And they which heard it, being convicted by their own conscience, went out one by one, beginning at the eldest, even unto the last: and Jesus was left alone, and the woman standing in the midst. When Jesus had lifted up himself, and saw none but the woman, he said unto her, Woman, where are those thine accusers? hath no man condemned thee? She said, No man, Lord. And Jesus said unto her, Neither do I condemn thee: go, and sin no more." (8:1-11).

They brought this woman to Jesus, not because they were shocked at her conduct or grieved that the Law of God had been broken, but to accuse Him of wrong doing. Had He said, let her go, they could accuse Him of compromising with sin and breaking the Mosaic Law. If He said, Stone her, He would break Roman law and be accountable to Rome. However, Jesus brought conviction to each one of the woman's accusers instead causing them to think about their own sins.

No matter what we have done in our lives, once we call upon the Lord Jesus we are saved and those sins are forgiven and forgotten. We can not be quick to accuse others of their sins unless we want to be convicted of our own. Believe me, once you remind someone of their sins you will also be reminded of your own. That is why it is important to not only ask God to forgive you of your own sins, but to forgive others for theirs because unless we forgive them God will not forgive us.

Today's Prayer:
Dear Lord,
We who are children of the light, do not live as those who walk in the darkness. Instead You have shown us right from wrong, truth from error, and You have given us discernment to test the spirits to see that which is from You and that which is from the evil one. The foundations seem to be shaking as we are flooded with a tidal wave of twists and spins that seeks to confuse or demean the believer. We clothe ourselves daily with godly armor, both defensive and offensive weaponry since our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but rather the authorities from this world. Keep our souls untainted by the changing rhetoric and sliding standards from our decadent society as we stand against the spiritual forces of evil. May we not fluctuate, but walk boldly in the conviction and power of the Holy Spirit today! In Jesus name.....Amen.

Have a wonderful and blessed day!
God Bless,
Christina

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aspiritual Bible Study: Our Good Shepherd Nov 5th, 2008 3:02:35 pm - Subscribe

Our Good Shepherd 11.04.08

Hello My Friend/Guest,

Today we are continuing our studies on the book of John, please read Chapters 9-10 in your Bible or you can Click Here to read them online. If the link does not work you can copy and paste this one to your browser: biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John%209-10&version=9

Today we will read about Jesus healing a man born blind; Jesus, the Good Shepherd; and the religious leaders desire to stone Jesus. Today's message focuses on the importance of realizing that Jesus is the answer and hope for all prayers. Jesus, Our Good Shepherd, is always with us and all prayers are answered according to His Will.

The Pool of Siloam was part of the celebration of the Feast of Tabernacles, during the celebration water was poured out of the pool by the high priest in hopes of an outpouring of the Holy Spirit. The next day, violence once again erupted in the Temple and this time stones were hurled at Jesus, as He escaped the violence He passed a blind man not far from the Pool. "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. I must work the works of him that sent me, while it is day: the night cometh, when no man can work. As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world. When he had thus spoken, he spat on the ground, and made clay of the spittle, and he anointed the eyes of the blind man with the clay, And said unto him, Go, wash in the pool of Siloam, (which is by interpretation, Sent.) He went his way therefore, and washed, and came seeing." (John 9:1-7). This man's affliction became a means of manifesting Jesus as the Light of the world.

There is a spiritual purpose of God's love in much of human suffering, and this man's blindness was the very means of keeping him from being lost for eternity. By faith, he obeyed Jesus' command to wash in the Pool of Siloam and it was His faith that cured him of his blindness.

The same miracles still happen today to all who put thier faith in Jesus, always remember that whatever comes our way is God's Will and although people are born with infirmities they are not always caused by sin. God never places any situation before us that He knows we can not handle, He knows our strengths better than we do. What one person lacks in one thing has strengths in many others.

The religious authorities in Israel were considered the shepherds of Israel, but they were false, self-serving leaders. However, Jesus identified Himself as the Good Shepherd. "Then said Jesus unto them again, Verily, verily, I say unto you, I am the door of the sheep. All that ever came before me are thieves and robbers: but the sheep did not hear them. I am the door: by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture. The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly. I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep." (John 10:7-11).

This prophecy was foretold by Ezekiel, "And I will set up one shepherd over them, and he shall feed them, even my servant David; he shall feed them, and he shall be their shepherd. And I the LORD will be their God, and my servant David a prince among them; I the LORD have spoken it. And I will make with them a covenant of peace, and will cause the evil beasts to cease out of the land: and they shall dwell safely in the wilderness, and sleep in the woods." (Ezekiel 34:23-25).

One of the distinguishing marks of a Christian is recognizing the need for guidance and desiring to follow the Good Shepherd. Jesus also said, "My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me: And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand. My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father's hand. I and my Father are one." (10:27-30). How comforting it is to be assured that we have Jesus the Good Shepherd caring for us and that not matter what we face He is right there with us.

Today's Prayer:
Dear Jesus,
We who are children of the light, do not live as those who walk in the darkness. Instead You have shown us right from wrong, truth from error, and You have given us discernment to test the spirits to see that which is from You and that which is from the evil one. The foundations seem to be shaking as we are flooded with a tidal wave of twists and spins that seeks to confuse or demean the believer. We clothe ourselves daily with godly armor, both defensive and offensive weaponry since our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but rather the authorities from this world. May we not fluctuate, but walk boldly in the conviction and power of the Holy Spirit. In Jesus' name......Amen.

Have a wonderful day!
God Bless,
Christina

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Mood: congested

aspiritual Bible Study: Wait Nov 7th, 2008 2:00:48 am - Subscribe

Wait 11.05.08

Hello My Friend/Guest,

Today we are continuing our studies on the book of John, please read Chapters 11-12 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 to your browser: biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John%2011-12&version=9

Today we will read about Jesus raising Lazarus from the dead; the Pharisees plotting to kill Jesus; Mary anointing Jesus' feet; Jesus triumphal entry; and Jesus answering the Greeks. Today's message focuses on the importance of realizing that we need to wait for God. We are quick to want things done right away, but when we wait on Him we will see results.

Jesus got message that a dear friend of His was gravely ill, "Now a certain man was sick, named Lazarus, of Bethany, the town of Mary and her sister Martha. (It was that Mary which anointed the Lord with ointment, and wiped his feet with her hair, whose brother Lazarus was sick.) Therefore his sisters sent unto him, saying, Lord, behold, he whom thou lovest is sick. When Jesus heard that, he said, This sickness is not unto death, but for the glory of God, that the Son of God might be glorified thereby. Now Jesus loved Martha, and her sister, and Lazarus. When he had heard therefore that he was sick, he abode two days still in the same place where he was." (John 11:1-6).

As Jesus tarried where He was, the weary hours and long days of waiting were sorrowfully ended as Lazarus died. Jesus headed back to Judaea. "Then after that saith he to his disciples, Let us go into Judaea again. His disciples say unto him, Master, the Jews of late sought to stone thee; and goest thou thither again? Jesus answered, Are there not twelve hours in the day? If any man walk in the day, he stumbleth not, because he seeth the light of this world. But if a man walk in the night, he stumbleth, because there is no light in him. These things said he: and after that he saith unto them, Our friend Lazarus sleepeth; but I go, that I may awake him out of sleep." (11:7-11).

Four days later, Jesus arrived and the sisters were overwhlemed with excitement of His arrival and grief over the loss of their brother. "Then when Jesus came, he found that he had lain in the grave four days already. Now Bethany was nigh unto Jerusalem, about fifteen furlongs off: And many of the Jews came to Martha and Mary, to comfort them concerning their brother. Then Martha, as soon as she heard that Jesus was coming, went and met him: but Mary sat still in the house. Then said Martha unto Jesus, Lord, if thou hadst been here, my brother had not died. But I know, that even now, whatsoever thou wilt ask of God, God will give it thee. " (11:17-22).

In order to strengthen their faith that He was the Resurrection and the Life, Jesus had delayed His arrival until four days after Lazarus' death. "Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live: And whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die. Believest thou this? She saith unto him, Yea, Lord: I believe that thou art the Christ, the Son of God, which should come into the world." (11:25-27). It is only when we let go of our emotions and hand our lives over to God that we can truly be comforted and at peace. What a blessing it would be that our hearts might learn to truly trust and wait for Him.

Often, we expect to see results quickly and in our own image, however God has other plans. He knows what we need and patiently waits for the right moment in which to give it to us. Just as Martha put her trust in God that He would take care of everything we too need to do the same. Everything that happens is for a reason and although we may not understand it at the time God uses every situation for our good. Trust in Him and wait for Him to answer.

Today's Prayer:
Dear Lord,
We recognize that our endurance and persistence are attitudes derived from a faith-filled life with You. Our endurance is realized by continuing this race though others may drop out making us feel like we run alone. Our persistence is marked by our determination to finish the race though struggles weigh us down and doubts cloud our vision of the finish line. Thank You for marking the race out for us by showing us the great examples of those who cheer us on as we participate in this Christian race. They finished their race on earth through their enduring faith, though they experienced opposition from sinful men. We endure hardships and struggles as discipline from You, our loving Father, that we may share in Your holiness. We look forward to the harvest of righteousness and peace that comes as a result of our persistence in this spiritual marathon. Strengthen our feeble arms and weak knees as we repent of the sin that entangles us. We lay aside everything that drags us down or tempts us to give up. We persist in the name of Jesus Christ for the heavenly finish line. In your mighty name, Jesus.....Amen.

Have a wonderful and blessed day!
God Bless you,
Christina

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aspiritual Bible Study: Not Alone Nov 8th, 2008 1:50:19 am - Subscribe

Not Alone 11.06.08

Hello My Friend/Guest,

Today we are continuing our studies on the book of John, please read Chapters 13-16 in your Bible or you can Click Here to read them online.
If the link does not work you can copy and paste this one to your browser: biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John%2013-16&version=9

Today we will read about Jesus washing His disciples feet; Jesus foretelling His betrayal, death, and second coming; and the promise of the Holy Spirit. Today's message focuses on the importance of realizing that no matter what you are going through Jesus is with you to help you through it.

Eleven of the 12 apostles were convinced that Jesus was the Messiah. Along with the multitude, they too had joined in praising and worshipping Him as He arrived in Jerusalem. "On the next day much people that were come to the feast, when they heard that Jesus was coming to Jerusalem, Took branches of palm trees, and went forth to meet him, and cried, Hosanna: Blessed is the King of Israel that cometh in the name of the Lord." (John 12:12-13).

Later, the disciples were fearful and troubled because Jesus foretold of His being betrayed by one of them. "Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that receiveth whomsoever I send receiveth me; and he that receiveth me receiveth him that sent me. When Jesus had thus said, he was troubled in spirit, and testified, and said, Verily, verily, I say unto you, that one of you shall betray me. Then the disciples looked one on another, doubting of whom he spake." (13:20-22).

Some of the most comforting words of Jesus were spoken at the very moment that the religious leaders were planning how to kill Him and He knew it. "Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also. And whither I go ye know, and the way ye know.......Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater works than these shall he do; because I go unto my Father. And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If ye shall ask any thing in my name, I will do it.......Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid. Ye have heard how I said unto you, I go away, and come again unto you. If ye loved me, ye would rejoice, because I said, I go unto the Father: for my Father is greater than I." (14:1-4, 12-14, 27-2

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The disciples were probably very confused at the time, but today the picture is much clearer for us as we read the full story. However, like the disciples we occasionally are faced with fears of what tomorrow may bring. When we are facing finacial loss, divorce, disease, handicaps, death of loved ones, addictions, or other turmoil it can be easy to be confused and scared. However, we need to remember that the Lord knows how to take care of our tomorrows We too can have the utmost confidence in our Lord's comfort knowing that He is with us through it all. We must choose whether we will or will not allow our hearts to be troubled. Every disappointment offers an opportunity to overcome stress, fear, and depression, and to develop patience and faith in God.

We can be rest assured that no matter what we face we are not alone, we are comforted and protected by the all mighty Jesus who lives in us. "I am the true vine, and my Father is the husbandman. Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh away: and every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit. Now ye are clean through the word which I have spoken unto you. Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me. I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing. If a man abide not in me, he is cast forth as a branch, and is withered; and men gather them, and cast them into the fire, and they are burned. If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you. Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be my disciples." (15:1-

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Today's Prayer:
Dear Lord,
As Your children we need to regularly examine our hearts to see if there are things, pursuits, or attitudes that are drawing us away from Your heart and thrusting us once again into the mindset of the world. Our heart’s examinations are not intended to condemn us but to refresh our spirit and remind us of our godly heritage. Father, since You know our hearts more than we do ourselves, reveal to us that which helps and that which hinders our Christian walk. As we walk in obedience to You we’re grateful for the peace and rest we receive in knowing that You do not condemn us but deliver mercy to help us in our time of need. You do not stand over us in judgment, but You walk alongside us assuring us of Your unwavering love and unending mercy that will see us through on this side of the journey. In Jesus' name......Amen.

Have a wonderful and blessed day!
God Bless,
Christina

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aspiritual Bible Study: One With Him Nov 8th, 2008 9:01:53 pm - Subscribe

One With Him 11.07.08

Hello My Friend/Guest,

Today we are continuing our studies on the book of John, please read Chapters 17-18 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 to your browser: biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John%2017-18&version=9

Today we will read about Jesus praying for intercession; His betrayal and arrest; Peter's denial; Jesus standing before the High Priests; His condemnation; and Barabbas released insread of Jesus. Today's message focuses on the importance of realizing that all who believe in Jesus are One with Him. All believers are apart of Jesus and no matter how many times we mess up, He loves us and forgives us.

After the Passover meal, Jesus began to pray, "Father, the hour is come; glorify thy Son, that thy Son also may glorify thee: As thou hast given him power over all flesh, that he should give eternal life to as many as thou hast given him. And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent. I have glorified thee on the earth: I have finished the work which thou gavest me to do. And now, O Father, glorify thou me with thine own self with the glory which I had with thee before the world was. I have manifested thy name unto the men which thou gavest me out of the world: thine they were, and thou gavest them me; and they have kept thy word." (John 17:1b-6). All true believers should unite in glorifying the Father as Christ our Lord, and in keeping His Word.

Jesus continued praying for all who believed in Him, "As thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world. And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth. Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word; That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me. And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one: I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me." (17:18-23). All who believe in Jesus become one with Him and are made perfect in the eyes of God.

Jesus and the eleven disciples then went to the Mount of Olives, He knew that Judas would soon arrive with the religious leaders who would lead to crucify Him. "When Jesus had spoken these words, he went forth with his disciples over the brook Cedron, where was a garden, into the which he entered, and his disciples. And Judas also, which betrayed him, knew the place: for Jesus ofttimes resorted thither with his disciples. Judas then, having received a band of men and officers from the chief priests and Pharisees, cometh thither with lanterns and torches and weapons." (18:1-3).

Within hours, all of Jesus' followers forsook Him, but it is comforting to know that Jesus sees far more in His followers than we see in ourselves or in each other. He knew His disciples would leave Him, but He continued to love them and forgave them for being afraid and leaving like they did.

The difference between the weakest of Jesus' disciples and the worldly, unsaved person is revealed in these words that Jesus prayed toward us to His Father in heaven. "For I have given unto them the words which thou gavest me; and they have received them, and have known surely that I came out from thee, and they have believed that thou didst send me. I pray for them: I pray not for the world, but for them which thou hast given me; for they are thine. And all mine are thine, and thine are mine; and I am glorified in them." (John 17:8-10).
We are His believers and He knows that we love Him, but it is the flesh that is weak. Therefore, He is quick to forgive and loves us just the same. Coincidently, as we daily meditate upon the Word of God our faith and spiritual discernment are increased enabling us to stay closer and closer to Him as trouble comes our way.

Today's Prayer:
Dear Lord,
As we live by faith and not by sight we see much of what the world does not see because we see it through eyes of faith. By faith we see a risen Savior who died for us and who is now interceding on our behalf. By faith we believe that life’s trials will enable us to grow a closer relationship with You. By faith we come to Jesus and stay the course. For it is not the one who runs the swiftest nor the one who runs for a day, but the one who endures to the end that will survive. The struggles of this life diminish when we walk by faith and not by sight. In Jesus' name......Amen.

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

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aspiritual Bible Study: Forgiven Nov 9th, 2008 9:31:54 pm - Subscribe

Forgiven 11.08.08

Hello My Friend/Guest,

Today we are completing our studies on the book of John, please read Chapters 19-21 in your Bible or you can Click Here to read them online.
If the link does not work you can copy and paste this one to your browser: biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John%2019-21&version=9

Today we will read about Jesus' crucifixion, burial, and resurrection; Jesus' appearing before His disciples; and Peter reaffirming his allegiance with Jesus. Today's message focuses on the importance of realizing that although we often fail we can can rejoice knowing that my the mercy and grace of Jesus we are sinless before God. His death, burial, and resurrection saved us all from the guilt and shame of sin.

It was the first day of the week after the death and burial of Jesus, Mary Magdalene arose and went to the sepulchre of Joseph of Arimathea that Jesus was placed in. "The first day of the week cometh Mary Magdalene early, when it was yet dark, unto the sepulchre, and seeth the stone taken away from the sepulchre. Then she runneth, and cometh to Simon Peter, and to the other disciple, whom Jesus loved, and saith unto them, They have taken away the LORD out of the sepulchre, and we know not where they have laid him..........Then the same day at evening, being the first day of the week, when the doors were shut where the disciples were assembled for fear of the Jews, came Jesus and stood in the midst, and saith unto them, Peace be unto you. And when he had so said, he shewed unto them his hands and his side. Then were the disciples glad, when they saw the LORD. Then said Jesus to them again, Peace be unto you: as my Father hath sent me, even so send I you." (John 20:1-2,19-21). The Savior arose and with His Resurrection dawned a new and victorious day for the human race.

At first the people questioned Jesus as even His disciples had doubts that He was the Savior. "But Thomas, one of the twelve, called Didymus, was not with them when Jesus came. The other disciples therefore said unto him, We have seen the LORD. But he said unto them, Except I shall see in his hands the print of the nails, and put my finger into the print of the nails, and thrust my hand into his side, I will not believe. And after eight days again his disciples were within, and Thomas with them: then came Jesus, the doors being shut, and stood in the midst, and said, Peace be unto you. Then saith he to Thomas, Reach hither thy finger, and behold my hands; and reach hither thy hand, and thrust it into my side: and be not faithless, but believing. And Thomas answered and said unto him, My LORD and my God." (20:24-2

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Like the disciples, many Christians become defeated because of some sin or being a doubter like Thomas, or they fear that Jesus may condemn instead of comfort, or fear that they may not be good enough, or fear what a hostile world will say or do. Such fears cause many to withdraw instead of draw closer to Him.

Christ knows our sorrows, our sufferings, and our fears. But, we can be certain that His grace is sufficient, regardless of circumstances. Without question, the Lord has a perfect plan and beyond our sorrows or failures, He has provided a glorious resurrection for all who will let Him be Lord of their lives. Just as Jesus forgave His disciples He also forgives us and will not leave nor forsake anyone that calls upon Him.

Today's Prayer:
Dear Lord,
You reign over all the earth and You also reign in my heart! What an awesome blessing this truth brings to me today. As I consider that it is not by my might, nor by my power but by the Spirit of the Lord of Hosts that my personal mountains are removed. Jesus, I know that many of the mountains I face are not just blown away by a simple prayer of faith, but these mountains are often the very essence of how You work through my life to reveal Your faithfulness and Your power in the midst of my struggles. You develop godly character as I am challenged to remain steadfast and faithful in my Christian walk. You make my feet like hind’s feet and You make me to walk upon high places. Help me to keep my gaze continually upward during the climb so that I see You reigning on Your throne as I bring You glory and honor! In Jesus' name.....Amen.

Have a wonderful and blessed day and enjoy the rest of your weekend.
God Bless you,
Christina

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aspiritual Bible Study: Holy Spirit Nov 10th, 2008 10:47:19 pm - Subscribe

Holy Spirit 11.09.08

Hello My Friend/Guest,

Today we are beginning our studies on the book of Acts, please read Chapters 1-3 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 to your browser: biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Acts%201-3&version=9

Today we will read and learn about the ascension of Jesus; the promise of Jesus' return; Matthias replacing Judas as a disciple; the Holy Spirit; and Peter's sermon. Today's message focuses on the Holy Spirit dwelling in you.

The book of Acts is the fifth book of the New Testament and contains 28 chapters. The author of the book is Luke and it was written to all believers, although the book is specifically addressed to Theophilus. The purpose of the book was to address what Jesus continued to do and teach after His ascension through His spiritual Body, the Church. What we are to learn from the book is that the true evidence of the Holy Spirit is directed power. Power to become witnesses for the purpose of extending the Gospel throughout the world.

As the disciples prepare and await for the Holy Spirit Jesus ascends up to heaven. "When they therefore were come together, they asked of him, saying, Lord, wilt thou at this time restore again the kingdom to Israel? And he said unto them, It is not for you to know the times or the seasons, which the Father hath put in his own power. But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth. And when he had spoken these things, while they beheld, he was taken up; and a cloud received him out of their sight. And while they looked stedfastly toward heaven as he went up, behold, two men stood by them in white apparel; Which also said, Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? this same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven. " (Acts 1:6-11).

The Feast of Unleavened Bread portrayed the sinless Savior, who is the Bread of Life and it was celebrated in conjunction with the Passover. The lamb without blemish offered as a sacrifice at Passover also typified Jesus, the perfect Lamb of God. The second major festival for which every male was to appear annually before God was 50 days later, following Firstfruits. It was the Feast of the Harvest and celebrated the first ingathering of the annual crops. This festival became known to Christians as the day of Pentecost (Greek: pent kostos) from the Greek word for 50 (pent konta).

It was during the day of Pentacost that the Holy Spirit arrived. "And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting. And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance. And there were dwelling at Jerusalem Jews, devout men, out of every nation under heaven. Now when this was noised abroad, the multitude came together, and were confounded, because that every man heard them speak in his own language." (2:1-6). There has always been some confusion as to what it means to speak in tongues. Speaking in tongues means that a person speaks out in their own language, yet when others hear it they hear it spoken in their own language. For example, I speak out in english to someone that only understands spanish and when he/she hears it my words are spanish to them.

On that day, being filled with the Holy Spirit and quoting the prophetic Scriptures Peter gave his first sermon, "And they were all amazed, and were in doubt, saying one to another, What meaneth this? Others mocking said, These men are full of new wine. But Peter, standing up with the eleven, lifted up his voice, and said unto them, Ye men of Judaea, and all ye that dwell at Jerusalem, be this known unto you, and hearken to my words: For these are not drunken, as ye suppose, seeing it is but the third hour of the day. But this is that which was spoken by the prophet Joel; And it shall come to pass in the last days, saith God, I will pour out of my Spirit upon all flesh: and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams: And on my servants and on my handmaidens I will pour out in those days of my Spirit; and they shall prophesy: And I will shew wonders in heaven above, and signs in the earth beneath; blood, and fire, and vapour of smoke: The sun shall be turned into darkness, and the moon into blood, before the great and notable day of the Lord come: And it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be saved." (2:12-21). The second one asks Jesus to come into their lives they are filled with the Holy Spirit and it never leaves you. Once that happens amazing things begin to happen as you become one of Jesus' disciples.

The believers in Acts knew that Jesus of Nazareth was Christ their Messiah. They also recognized that any belief which did not lead to repentance and a new way of life was insincere and worthless. There are vital obligations for every Christian and the one who has no concern for doing what is pleasing in the Lord's sight should not assume that he is prepared to meet the Lord. However, our faith must never rest in our works. All our trust and hope must be in Christ alone, and not by our good works.

Today's Prayer:
Dear Lord,
I will never fully comprehend the depth of Your sacrificial death where we see man at his worst and God at His best. In my place You took my guilt and shame as You became the guilt offering pouring out Your life unto death and taking on my iniquity. You gave all so that I could be forgiven. Though my sins were as scarlet they were washed white as snow, cleansed by the saving blood of the sinless Lamb. You turned my hopeless condition into a life full of hope for this life and glorious anticipation for eternal life beyond the grave. Nothing in all of history will ever compare to the Divine Exchange where my sins were exchanged for Your pardon. I walk in newness of life and in the power of the resurrected Savior. In Jesus' name.....Amen.

Have a wonderful day and week.
God Bless You,
Christina

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