Session and committees

Meetings of the Session and various committees serving Virtue.

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thoughts on “Session and committees”

  1. Very good brother Steve. I will be checking in each day. Thank you for posting devotionals for us!

    I am reminded of this verse and cross references also during hardship times:

    10 For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong.
    • [ ch. 5:15 ]; See Matt. 5:11, 12
    • Rom. 5:3
    • [ ch. 13:4 ]
    ~ 2 Corinthians 12:10 ESV

    Serving Him with you,
    Pat Gantt

    Reply

  2. What a touching story you told us in church about this young man. It gave my husband and I great pause as we spoke of it on the ride home. I often wonder if the people put in our path may even be angels. Certainly our opportunity to show our love for others.
    40 And the King will answer them, ‘Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me.’
    ~ Matthew 25:40 ESV
    30 And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.’ 31 The second is this: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no other commandment greater than these.”
    ~ Mark 12:30-31 ESV
    In Him alone,
    Pat Gantt

    Reply

  3. >> There’s nothing that causes the Spirit to move in me like good music <<
    Me too Patrick…
    and I do make a joyful noise (emphasis noise) unto the Lord when we sing.
    Great website!
    We love your voice and leadership.
    Thank you so much!
    Pat
    and
    Joe
    email us!

    Reply

  4. Amen to all of this Pastor Steve.
    It WILL take a miracle to turn our physical country around.
    Yes, we must humble ourselves as a corporate country and individually surrendering all to I AM that I AM.
    For those of us who heard the sweet call of Our Good Shepherd give Him all the glory and trust in Him no matter how hard the next years will be.
    Blessings to you Steve.
    Thank you for these inspirational devotionals each day.
    I have told many others about them 🙂
    Pat

    Reply

  5. ! HEY PASTOR STEVE !
    Read your emails!
    I have special ones just for you Pastors.
    Read the attention Pastors.
    If you deleted them it’s OK.
    Just email me and I will resend.
    I was bragging on you.
    As you know I have a special distribution list assembled of the some of the strongest Biblical Christians I know with 4 Pastors and my excellent mentors all adopted or blood brothers and sisters. We discuss together articles and topics and questions, and have our ESV Verse of the Day Berean Studies and devotionals.
    Keep up the great work!
    We are very blessed to have you as our teacher and dear friend.
    Patty

    Reply

  6. Here is an example for our distribution list re: PASTORS > Holy Wars.
    Goes along great with your above post!
    URL to article: https://www.bereanbiblesociety.org/reflections-on-ephesians/
    – Berean Bible Society – https://www.bereanbiblesociety.org
    Reflections on Ephesians
    [Reposted on August 27, 2016 In Bible Study Articles, Two Minutes With the Bible
    There is no epistle in which we find more about the grace of God than that great and wonderful epistle of Paul to the Ephesians! It is one of his prison epistles and, interestingly enough, he was actually and literally in jail for telling a secret, the secret of the mystery (Eph 6:19,20). Evidently he had a great deal of opposition in trying to make this secret known. That’s rather unusual, isn’t it?
    The Ephesian epistle was probably written about 64 A.D., and was evidently sent by the hand of a man named Tychicus (6:21,22), along with two other letters, one to the Colossians (Col. 4:7-9), and that to Philemon (Col. 4:7-9 cf. Phile. 10-12). Never, never were more valuable documents entrusted to human hands!
    Now, in the earlier epistles of Paul, we learn a great deal about dispensational change and development, but in Ephesians we have arrived, and find ourselves on the highest, broadest spiritual ground. Here the Holy Spirit reveals to us, in all their fullness, those blessed truths which distinguish this dispensation from others.
    For example, the mystery or the sacred secret is here revealed in all its fullness. He says that this secret is now made known (1:9) through him (3:1-3), but it is for all to see (3:9), for it concerns our close relationship to Christ (5:30,32). And since Satan will oppose the proclamation of this secret, boldness is needed to proclaim it (6:19,20).
    In this epistle, the one Body of Christ, the Church of this dispensation, is emphasized throughout. The whole body, he says, is the fullness, the complement, the fullness of Christ (1:23). He says God is making one new man today (2:15), reconciling Jews and Gentiles to Himself in one body (2:16), a joint body (3:6), in which we are to keep the unity of the Spirit (4:3,4). The Body, he says, must grow up, and it must build itself up in love (4:11-16). Christ is the Head of the Body, and its Savior (5:23), and we are the members (5:30). How close that brings all believers to each other! How close it brings us to Christ!
    Our position in the heavenlies is prominently brought out in this epistle. We read that, immediately upon conversion, we are blessed with all spiritual blessings in the heavenlies (1:3). We’re told that God’s power in raising Christ from the dead and exalting Him far above all is now extended to us-ward who believe (1:19-21). Positionally, he says, we’ve already been raised from the dead and seated in the heavenlies (2:6). Now, he says, it is ours to occupy this position by faith, as a witness to the principalities and powers in the heavenlies (3:10). Hence we must wrestle with the rulers of the darkness of this age, wicked spirits in the heavenlies (6:12). And for this, he says, we’re going to need the whole armor of God (6:10,11).
    In this epistle, all is grace. Read Ephesians and see how it is permeated with grace. Even the salutation speaks of grace and peace (1:2). Compare that with what we read about the second coming of Christ to this earth, where He will come to judge and make war (Rev. 19:11). Grace and peace is the exact opposite of judgment and war! Thank God He hasn’t declared war yet. He hasn’t visited this world in judgment yet. He still offers to sinners everywhere, and to saints, of course, in greater measure, grace and peace.
    Now the doxology—oh, what a doxology of grace! The doxology in the Ephesian epistle is the longest of all of Paul’s doxologies, and in the original it is his longest sentence. We’re blessed because we are chosen by God the Father to the praise of His glory (1:4-6). We’re made accepted in the Son to the praise of His glory. We’re sealed by the Spirit to the praise of His glory. Glory to the triune God! Glory for His grace!
    We read individual things, too, about the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit. All throughout this epistle, everything emanates from the Father. The Father is always the source. The Father has chosen us (1:3,4) according to the good pleasure of His will (v 5), according to the riches of His grace (vv 6,7), according to His good pleasure (v 9), according to the purpose of Him who worketh all things after the counsel of His own will (v 11), according to the working of His mighty power (v. 19), and according to His eternal purpose (3:11). There’s more about that in the epistle, showing that everything finds its source in the will of God.
    Then we see how our salvation centers in the Son. He’s always the second person in the Trinity. His place is always in the midst. We read, for example, that we’re blessed with all spiritual blessings in Christ (1:3), and have redemption through His blood (v 7), in whom we are greatly enriched (v 11), in whom also we are saved (v 13), and sealed (v 13). Think of that! We are in Christ, and because of His finished work, the believer is sealed until the day of redemption.
    Then we come to the Spirit. It all comes down to us through, or by the operation of, the Spirit. We’re sealed by the Spirit (1:13), and we have access to God the Father by the Spirit (2:18). We are an habitation of God through the Spirit (2:22), and we’re strengthened by the Spirit (3:16). We must not grieve the Spirit (4:30), but rather bear the fruit of the Spirit (5:9). We must be filled with the Spirit (5:18), use the sword of the Spirit (6:17), and we must pray in the Spirit (6:18).
    What a tremendous, tremendous epistle!
    —–
    AMEN! Ephesians
    http://www.biblestudytools.com/search/?s=bibles&q=Ephesians&t=esv&c=all
    The Book of Ephesians
    http://www.biblestudytools.com/esv/ephesians/
    What does the Bible say about the topic of Ephesians?
    Popular Bible Verses from Ephesians
    Stay encouraged and united with Christ with these popular Bible verses from the tenth book of the New Testament, Ephesians.

    Reply

  7. The Classic of Course for sin confession is Psalm 51.
    For the director of music. A psalm of David. When the prophet Nathan came to him after David had committed adultery with Bathsheba.
    Create in Me a Clean Heart, O God
    http://www.biblestudytools.com/esv/psalms/51.html
    http://www.biblestudytools.com/kjv/psalms/51.html

    [Many people begin their walk with Jesus starting with this Psalm.
    I did when I accepted Jesus into my heart and follow Him.]
    [My favorite Swords of the LORD are ESV and KJV.
    I use English Standard Version (ESV) (check all menu from blue gear)
    to pick up cross references.
    And
    The King James Version (KJV)
    (check all menu from blue gear)
    To pick up the original Hebrew and Koine Greek Lexicon I read the ESV Verse of the Day every morning and do a full Berean Study and share with my brethren in email.]

    Serving Him with everyone,
    Patty
    Sinner, Saved by Grace
    Soli Deo Gloria (Glory to God Alone)

    Reply

  9. Thank you Pastor Steve and Patrick Minton for establishing this blog.
    I will try not to be too overwhelming with my occasional post replies. 🙂
    Keep up the fabulous work gentlemen!
    ~ Patty
    Sinner, Saved by Grace
    Soli Deo Gloria (Glory to God Alone)

    Soli Deo Gloria (Glory to God Alone)

    Reply

  10. Thank you Patrick for sharing your thoughts.
    Your solos are such an inspiration!
    My Favorite Hymns on this subject are:
    His Eye is on the Sparrow
    and
    All is Well with My Soul

    My dear adopted sister in faith, friend and mentor’s page, Berit, is one of her shortest but so very deep on this subject when we are overwhelmed.
    Berit Kjos of Kjos Ministries: Crossroad To
    King David no matter what was happening in his life still gave all glory and praise to GOD.
    My High Tower
    Seeing the World from His perspective
    “The Lord is… my High Tower and my Refuge.” 2 Samuel 22:2-3
    http://www.crossroad.to/Victory/names/tower.htm

    Read about her struggles in World War II Norway. Her father was taken to a Nazi Concentration Camp for the bulk of the war for helping a fellow resistance member escape from the Nazis…
    No greater love hath no man…
    ——
    On a cold drizzly day in early 1998 [long before the NSA raised fear of a rising Police State], I took a sobering tour through the Holocaust Museum in Washington DC. A picture of a Gestapo officer brought back memories of the Nazi soldiers that guarded our neighborhood in Norway during World War II. Young as I was (I was born in Oslo shortly before Hitler’s invasion of Norway), I will never forget the piercing air raids, the thundering war planes, our hiding place in the basement, and the sounds of exploding bombs and fires around us.
    My young father was a leader in “Hjemme Fronten” (the Home Front) — an underground army of loyal Norwegians who would risk death than submit to Nazi tyranny. Caught helping other brave soldiers escape into neutral Sweden, he endured hunger, torment, and the threat of death in Oslo’s main Nazi concentration camp before his release at the end of the war.
    The Norwegian people didn’t known such tyranny until the Nazi warships sailed up the Oslofjord on April 9, 1940. Overnight, Hitler’s fascism replaced liberty and trusted friends became foes. Resistance to the new ideology would be costly. But for most Norwegians, the choice was clear. Unlike Hitler’s masses, we hadn’t been weakened by years of ceaseless propaganda, slogans, service, and celebrations dedicated to the triumph of National Socialism.
    ——
    Also a friend of her’s account
    _Trapped in Hitler’s Hell_
    Chapter 5
    by Anita Dittman
    http://www.crossroad.to/Quotes/spirituality/lighthousetrails/010/4-trapped.htm

    Neither Berit or Anita gave up hope and still gave all praise, glory, and honor to I AM that I AM. Their faith remains strong protected by the Whole Armor of GOD.

    So next time we have a dross (Saint Paul’s word) day don’t forget to praise GOD.

    Blessings to you Patrick!
    ~ Patty
    Sinner, Saved by Grace
    Soli Deo Gloria (Glory to God Alone)

    Reply

  11. Hi Pastor Steve!
    Excellent advice from Isaiah.
    Our LORD JESUS CHRIST CHRISTOS IESOUS Y’SHUA is our Sabbath rest.
    We will be blessed by doing our Great Commission work and not focus on ourselves.
    The Two Great Love Laws that summarize all Ten Commandments — LOVE GOD; LOVE OTHERS.
    See you in church today!
    ~ Patty

    Reply

    1. Hi Patty,
      I do attempt to get blog posts cross-posted as soon as possible. Unfortunately I was on vacation over the weekend and wasn’t able to get several posted until I returned. You should be able to see the devotions on facebook even if you don’t have an account by navigating to facebook.com/VirtueCPChurch if there are days when they don’t get posted.

      Thanks for your feedback and sorry for the inconvenience.

      Reply

  13. >Read the scriptures daily.<
    I absolutely agree Pastor Steve.
    I am rejuvenated each day staying in God's Word.
    I discover new insight when I read.
    Thrilled to learn more about God.
    I desire to eat and drink the Words!
    Please keep up the devotionals.
    I will read them each day.
    Post them the day you write them here.
    I do not do Facebook.
    I would like to raise my hand during the service I read Saturday and Sundays Devotionals 🙂
    With much love and respect to you.
    Pat

    Reply

  16. • What is “For Jesus’ Sake?”
    [The Great Commission has great power if we are dying for Christ’s sake.
    We die to ourselves.
    We die to others for their sake to bring them the GOSPEL even if it is not received.
    Perhaps someone else will be able to get through to the people we touch if the person we are reaching out to is not ready to hear the Good News.
    These still lost people are called the low hanging fruit who are being ripened by the Holy Spirit and were given to Jesus, God the Son by GOD the Father upon the creation.]
    https://www.bereanbiblesociety.org/for-jesus-sake/
    “… As to suffering itself, the Apostle also gladly bore this “for Jesus’ sake.” In writing to the Corinthians, he said: “I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ’s sake; for when I am weak, then am I strong” (II Cor. 12:10). He had learned that in weakness he leaned the harder, prayed more, and was brought closer to His [our] Lord, and herein lay his spiritual strength…”

    Reply

  17. I suggest we celebrate with our Christian Brothers and Sisters the Day of Prayer. When one member suffers the whole body suffers.
    “… Have you asked your pastor if your church will be part of one of the most important prayer movements?
    The International Day of Prayer for the persecuted church (IDOP) is on November 6th.
    Download Now →
    http://live.opendoorsusa.org/idop/?utm_source=idop&utm_medium=email&utm_content=cta-links&utm_campaign=2016-09-idop4
    ,,,”
    I have downloaded this material and stand ready to help in any way possible to our Church.
    “… Click here for free resources, such as sermon outlines, bulletin inserts and posters. Thank you for choosing to stand with our brothers and sisters in this way! ”
    I receive devotionals from Open Doors everyday called “Standing Strong Through the Storm. In comparison we are “rich” here in America but Spiritually poor to the Persecuted Bride Church of the Middle East, far East, Africa, Far East, an d Communist Countries. We should be humbled!

    Reply

  18. … We do not know what to do, but our eyes are on you.
    2 Chronicles 20:12

    When King Jehoshaphat and the nation of Judah were facing a massive attack from a much stronger military force, they could’ve immediately surrendered. He could’ve chosen to quit and hope for the best. Yet, instead he turned to the Lord for help. As a result, God miraculously delivered the entire nation.

    We also are sometimes besieged by the troubles of life that we can’t seem to find a way to get around. It could be a difficult marriage, a prodigal child, financial ruin, job loss, mental, emotional, or physical illnesses, etc. Whatever the trouble or problem, we can choose to quit or we can choose to turn our eyes to God.

    Something happens within us when we are challenged in that moment of crisis. Our tendencies may be to panic and figure things out as quickly as we can. However, sometimes even our best efforts only dig us deeper into despair. Our only hope is Jesus Christ and His mercy extended towards us. If we turn our hearts and minds towards Him, we will know that quitting isn’t an acceptable option for God’s children.

    We don’t give up nor do we give in to the pressure of unbelief and anxiousness. We do this by knowing God’s word. His truth strengthens our hearts and minds to find courage to move forward in the faith. The promises of God are yes and amen. (2 Corinthians 1:20) He will look over His word to perform it. Our responsibility is to know the truth that sets us free from wanting to give up. God has great things in store for those who keep their eyes on Him more than on their circumstances.

    Prayer

    Dear Lord, I look to You once again to keep my focus in the right place so that I can honor You even in the hard times. In Jesus’ name, amen.”

    In His Service,
    Crystal
    Telling Ministries
    http://daughtersofthecreator.com/quitting-not-option/

    Reply

  19. Here is a booklet to download written by my dearest Biblical Christian Sister, Berit Kjos.
    Lighthouse Trail Newsletter insert.
    http://www.lighthousetrails.com/home/1028-booklet-the-unseen-foe-behind-rising-evil-and-putting-on-the-armor-of-god.html
    The Unseen Foe Behind Rising Evil And Putting on the Armor of God

    “Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils; speaking lies in hypocrisy; having their conscience seared with a hot iron. (1 Timothy 4:1-2)

    We don’t hear much about spiritual warfare these days. Most churches seem to ignore the reality of Satan and the evil he inspires. God’s warnings about fellowship with the world’s alluring thrills doesn’t fit the contemporary image of Jesus as a tolerant, easy-going friend…”

    See more of her thousands of devotionals and files here:
    Kjos Ministries
    http://www.crossroad.to

    Reply

  20. • What is dominionism and self-exaltation?
    Bible Study Tools and One Place Monday 9/19
    http://www.oneplace.com/ministries/thru-the-bible-with-j-vernon-mcgee/read/articles/who-is-in-the-drivers-seat-11888.html
    Who Is in the Driver’s Seat?

    “… A great many saints today have pride of race, pride of face, and pride of grace — they are even proud they have been saved by grace! My friend, your salvation ought not to make you proud, it is not even something to brag about. It is something about which to glorify God, and it is something that should humble you. Aren’t you ashamed of yourself that you have to be saved by grace because you are such a miserable sinner? I wish I had something to offer God for salvation, but I have nothing. Therefore, I must be saved by grace, and I cannot even boast of that.

    Pride is that which is destroying the testimony of many Christians and has made them very ineffective for God. They go in for show, but the thing they are building is a big haystack. They are not building on the foundation of Christ with gold and silver and precious stones. Pride has a great many saints down for the count of ten; it has pinned the shoulders of many to the mat today…”

    Reply

  21. [This reminds me of Arnold Palmer. He gave of himself to others. He always made everyone he met or knew feel wanted and appreciated. He looked into their eyes with love and affection. The words that were repeated by his fans and friends most often were “gracious and humble.” His philanthropic activities on and off the course benefitted humankind. His wife and he donated their time and money to 2 hospitals in the Orlando, FL area. Winnie’s contribution of love was to dedicate a hospital for women, babies, and children. They did these acts not in a self-engradisement but to the glory of God. To a person who spoke about his death they all said Arnie put others before himself in love. Internationally he will be mourned by so many. Mr. Palmer we are confident you are now with Jesus and like Saint Paul you heard, well done good and faithful servant, well done.]
    Cross References:
    • 581 15:57 – [ Rom. 8:37 ; 1 John 5:4 ]
    1 Corinthians 15:57 ESV
    37 No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.
    • 362 8:37 – 1 Cor. 15:57 ; See John 16:33
    • 363 8:37 – Gal. 2:20 ; Eph. 5:2 ; Rev. 1:5 ; 3:9
    Romans 8:37 ESV
    4 For everyone who has been born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world– our faith.
    • 185 5:4 – ch. 3:9 ; 4:4 ; John 16:33
    • 186 5:4 – [ 1 Cor. 15:57 ; Eph. 6:16 ]

    Reply

  22. Here is a devotional from a Pastor I much admire on this subject.
    In Touch Ministries, by Dr. Charles Stanley, First Baptist Church, Atlanta, GA
    God’s Pathway of Goodness
    Psalms 25:4-15
    Although the Lord showers His goodness on all men and women, the ability to perceive and enjoy it is limited by a refusal to reverence Him as God. To experience the fullness of His kindness, we must honor Him by choosing His way of submission and obedience. The Lord will never withhold His goodness from those who walk uprightly with Him.
    In love and wisdom, the Father has specifically designed a pathway for each of His children. Because no two people are alike, each path will look different. What may be best for one person may not be good for another. Comparison of God’s ways in different lives will lead only to discouragement and misjudgment. We have neither the wisdom nor the eternal perspective to understand why the Lord leads some people down a road of pain and hardship, but we can know that He is always good.
    Every step on God’s pathway represents a deliberate choice to follow Him. By looking around instead of fixing our eyes on Jesus, we may start thinking that we are missing out on some really good experiences or possessions. If we leave the Lord’s course to follow one that looks better, we will forfeit His good blessings and discover, as Adam and Eve did, that any other way leads to loss.
    Take time periodically to ask yourself, Am I on the path the Lord has chosen for me, or have I taken a detour to follow another direction that looks good?
    To build our own course and ignore the goodness and abundance of His pathway is foolishness. God alone knows the way we should take.

    Reply

  23. Excellent thank you!
    Cross References:
    18 There is no fear in love, but 1perfect love casts out fear. For fear has to do with punishment, and whoever fears has not 2been perfected in love.
    • 170 4:18 – [ John 3:18 ; Rom. 8:15 ]
    • 171 4:18 – [See ver. 17 above]
    19 3We love because he first loved us.
    • 172 4:19 – ver. 10
    1 John 4:18-19 ESV
    1 18 Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe is condemned already, because he has not 2believed in the name of the only Son of God.
    • 147 3:18 – ch. 5:24 ; [ Mark 16:16 ]
    • 148 3:18 – See 1 John 5:13
    John 3:18 ESV
    15 For 1you did not receive 2the spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received the Spirit of 3adoption as sons, by whom we cry, 4″Abba! Father!”
    • 318 8:15 – 1 Cor. 2:12
    • 319 8:15 – 2 Tim. 1:7 ; [ Gal. 2:4 ; Heb. 2:15 ; 1 John 4:18 ]
    • 320 8:15 – ver. 23; Gal. 4:5 ; [ ch. 9:4 ; Isa. 56:5 ; Jer. 31:9 ]
    • 321 8:15 – Gal. 4:6 ; [ Mark 14:36 ]
    Romans 8:15 ESV
    17 By this 1is love perfected with us, so that 2we may have confidence for the day of judgment, because 3as he is so also are we in this world.
    • 167 4:17 – [ ch. 2:5 ]
    • 168 4:17 – ch. 2:28 ; 3:21
    • 169 4:17 – [ ch. 3:1 ]
    1 John 4:17 ESV
    10 In this is love, 1not that we have loved God 2but that he loved us and sent his Son to be 3the propitiation for our sins.
    • 154 4:10 – Rom. 5:8, 10
    • 155 4:10 – [See ver. 9 above]
    • 156 4:10 – See ch. 2:2
    1 John 4:10 ESV

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  24. >> True faith, true joy is finding contentment when all is not well. Know that you are part of God’s plan to restore his people. <<
    Amen!
    Christians share a common duty to love others by sharing the Good News.
    "…Now think about the Lord’s parting instructions to His disciples. Did He say to sit idly by and simply mention His name to anyone who walked past? No! He said, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation” (Mark 16:15). He wants the good news to go forth because He is still seeking the lost today…" Pastor Charley Stanley, First Baptist Church of Atlanta

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  25. I am now becoming aware of the import of “in Him” and “in Jesus” As Jesus tells us every Word of God is important so pay attention to this word “in” GOD the Father, GOD the Son, and GOD the Holy Spirit. Amen.
    I miss church from this week. Hope to be well enough this upcoming Sunday. Without going to church every week it always makes life incomplete.
    ESV VERSE OF THE DAY
    October 6
    http://www.biblestudytools.com/esv/2-thessalonians/passage/?q=2-thessalonians+1:11-12
    2 Thessalonians 1:11-12
    11 To this end we always pray for you, that our God may make you worthy of his calling and may fulfill every resolve for good and every work of faith by his power, 12 so that the name of our Lord Jesus may be glorified in you, and you in him, according to the grace of our God and the Lord Jesus Christ.
    Read 2 Thessalonians 1
    http://www.biblestudytools.com/esv/2-thessalonians/1.html

    Reply

  26. “in” a very important word you are so right Pastor Steve.

    Bible Verses about Our Identity in Christ
    http://www.biblestudytools.com/topical-verses/bible-verses-about-our-identity-in-christ/

    God created humans to have unique characteristics and purpose. However he designed us also to have a commonality of contentment with our lives through His will. We discover our true identity the more closely we are drawn to Him. Use these Bible verses to understand more about our identity in Christ, and how to not lose sight of who we are destined to be.

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  28. Reminds me of this one… “woe to the solicitors” (lawyers, most “law makers” are lawyers) A young attorney right out of law school told me this.. I always remember it… “There is a great deal of difference between what is legal and what is justice.” We know where the ultimate justice is served right?
    Praying with you the dictators are overthrown.

    Reply

  29. We have a small distribution list of my family both adopted and blood. There are 4 Pastors [Pastor Steve in one of them] as part of the distribution.
    We discussed this…
    • What does Scripture say about GOD’s government and Man’s government?
    • What should we do when they are opposed to one another?
    • What is an example of what happens when man’s government conflicts with God’s Government?
    • What should we do when they conflict?
    Government
    I looked up the Scriptures for this topic and found many. Try your own exploration.
    I believe all of us can agree our man’s government (no matter the party – be it “right” or “left” or “establishment”) is NOT what we should be concerned about first and foremost. Jesus said times would wax worse and worse. If we don’t recognize this we have had our heads in the sand.
    So what to do?
    Search Results
    Showing 1 – 4 of 4 search results for government
    http://www.biblestudytools.com/search/?s=bibles&q=government&t=kjv&c=all
    GOD’s Government
    Man’s Government

    Reply

  30. Sorry we couldn’t make it again this Sunday. Neither one of us are clear of the cold.
    We do not think it is fair to expose the whole congregations (many are old and apt to get sick) to our contagion. 🙁
    We really miss the fellowship and God willing can return this next Sunday.
    Love to all!
    Pat

    Reply

  31. Here is a challenging question related to this devotional I am studying in detail —

    Scriptural Error >”God hates sin but not sinner” > Part 1a
    https://duckduckgo.com/?q=God+hates+sin+but+not+sinner&t=h_&ia=web
    • Joyful Giving Group homepage
    Sunday, February 12, 2012
    That’s NOT in the Bible! “Hate the sin; love the sinner” (Romans 5:6-8)
    For while we were still weak, at the right time Christ died for the ungodly. Indeed, rarely will anyone die for a righteous person—though perhaps for a good person someone might actually dare to die. But God proves his love for us in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.

    Reply

  33. John Gill’s Exposition of the Bible

    Deuteronomy 10:14
    ” Behold, the heaven, and the heaven of heavens, are the Lord’s
    thy God…”
    Made and possessed by him; the airy and starry heaven, the third heaven, which is the heaven of heavens, the seat of the divine Majesty, the habitation of angels and glorified saints:

    “… the earth [also], with all that therein is;…”
    that is his property, and at his disposal, being made by him, and all that is upon it, or contained in it, even whatsoever is on or in the whole terraqueous globe;

    see ( Psalms 115:15 Psalms 115:16 ) .
    Psalms 115:15
    ” You are blessed of the Lord…”
    The Arabic version reads it, “we are blessed”; with temporal and with spiritual blessings; being the beloved of the Lord, chosen of him; whose sins are pardoned, whose persons are justified by the righteousness of Christ; who are put among the children of God, and are heirs of God, and joint heirs with Christ; regenerated by his Spirit, favoured with communion with God, and wrought up to some degree of conformity to Christ, and shall ever be with him.

    “…Which made heaven and earth;…”
    and so able to bless with all kind of blessings, both heavenly and earthly; and from whom all help and assistance may be hoped for, and who may be trusted and confided in: and this, it may be, is observed to distinguish him from the idols of the Gentiles, who made not the heavens and the earth; and who are not able to bless, nor give the least relief to any of their votaries.

    Psalms 115:16
    The heaven, even the heavens, are the Lord’s
    Not only the visible heavens, the airy and starry regions, which are within our sight; but the heaven of heavens, the third heaven, into which the Apostle Paul was caught, and heard and saw things not to be uttered; and which is, as the Targum expresses it,
    “for the majesty of the glory of the Lord:”
    he is the maker, owner, proprietor, and possessor of them all: but the third heaven is more especially the seat of his majesty; where he has prepared the throne of his glory, where he keeps court; where his ministers, his angels, wait upon him, observe his orders, and execute his will; and which he has prepared for his saints to dwell with him in to all eternity.
    But the earth hath he given to the children of men;
    to Adam and his posterity, to dwell in it, to till it, and enjoy the fruits of it; yet so as not to leave it entirely to the care of men, and have no concern in it, and the affairs of it, as some licentious persons would from hence conclude; as if God had took the heavens to himself, and only minded the persons and things in that, and never concerned himself about the earth, and persons and things there; having disposed of it to the children of men, and left it to their conduct: for though he has given it to them for their use, yet he has still a claim upon it, and can and does dispose of it, and order all things in it, according to his pleasure; and men, from the highest to the lowest, are accountable to him, being but stewards, and at most but deputies and viceroys, under him: besides the words may be rendered, “and the earth which he hath given to the children of men” F1; that is his also, as well as the heavens. This the Lord gives to the children of men as their portion; and sad is the case of such, when this is their all; but to his own children he gives heaven, the kingdom of heaven, eternal glory and happiness. Maimonides F2 gives the sense of the whole passage thus;
    “God only perfectly knows the truth, nature, substance, form, motion, and causes of the heavens: and to man he has given, that he may understand what are under the heavens; because they are the world, and as it were his house, in which he dwells, and of which he is a part.’…”

    Reply

  35. Amen Pastor Steve!

    As you pointed out so well this Sunday when you answered my question…

    What should we do to point our family and friends to Jesus without them being “turned off?”

    Our shared Pastor friends and ministers on our small distribution list of blood and adopted brothers and sisters are in agreement with you.

    First and foremost we should be ambassadors of Jesus Iesous Y’shua who is Christ Christos.

    We will not be taken seriously or worse yet mischaracterizing the GOSPEL message if we are not followers of Jesus, The Way by our words and most importantly actions or lack thereof.

    People should see the difference that our lives have taken from one of unrepentant sinners to those who diligently persevere by the Power of the Holy Spirit to progressively become more like Jesus in our thoughts and deeds…
    Loving the LORD and others. Putting GOD and others before ourselves.

    Scripture reference from one of our minister brethren:
    Luke 10:25-37 KJV:

    25 And, behold, a certain lawyer stood up, and tempted him, saying, Master, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?
    26 He said unto him, What is written in the law? how readest thou?
    27 And he answering said, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind; and thy neighbour as thyself.
    28 And he said unto him, Thou hast answered right: this do, and thou shalt live.
    29 But he, willing to justify himself, said unto Jesus, And who is my neighbour?
    30 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.
    31 And by chance there came down a certain priest that way: and when he saw him, he passed by on the other side.
    32 And likewise a Levite, when he was at the place, came and looked on him, and passed by on the other side.
    33 But a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where he was: and when he saw him, he had compassion on him,
    34 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.
    35 And on the morrow when he departed, he took out two pence, and gave them to the host, and said unto him, Take care of him; and whatsoever thou spendest more, when I come again, I will repay thee.
    36 Which now of these three, thinkest thou, was neighbour unto him that fell among the thieves?
    37 And he said, He that shewed mercy on him. Then said Jesus unto him, Go, and do thou likewise

    Thank you so very much for answering my question in the form of the Preface of your Sermon on Luke 18. The widow who was
    persistent.

    Thank you for being my Pastor, friend, and brother answering my questions and reading my email. You have given generously of yourself, your time.

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

    I love you!
    Serving Jesus with you,
    Sis Patty

    15 The saying is trustworthy and deserving of full acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am the foremost. ~ 1Timothy 1:15 ESV

    Reply

  39. Wow well Pastor Steve I would love to step up to the plate as it were and be used. I think (correct me if I overreach I may help doing Bible Research and prepare Outreach materials.)

    This is my gift I believe from my years of training Preschool to PhD level “taking” and “teaching.” Apparently I was born with a hot spot for language. I do not boast I do praise the Lord! All glory goes to him alone.

    As our dear friend Pastor Jack always signs his email:
    Soli Deo Gloria (Glory to God Alone)
    Jack Wellman
    Pastor & Sinner, Saved by Grace
    Telling Ministries Talking Truth Through Technology
    Here is one of his Today’s Devotionals
    http://faithinthenews.com/5-signs-your-church-is-dead-or-dying/
    ======================

    Hi Patricia Gantt, here is today’s shareable story of the day.
    Here are five signs your church might be dying. No Missions I love our little church. We’re the smallest in our community, but we have the heart of missions; that is, we are seeking to serve as Jesus commanded the church to serve. He says, “For I was hungry and you gave me food, I …
    Read/Watch in entirety: 5 Signs Your Church Is Dead or Dying

    I am refreshed daily by having time with Our Lord Jesus Iesous Y’shua. Each day a new opportunity to pray, read His Holy Word, and do Berean explorations and devotionals. Per usual the Holy Spirit leads when 2 or more different sources meld well into a topic, question, and answer. We obviously need to pay attention to be blessed!

    Pastor Steve you and my other dear friend Pastors and ministers have much in common as the Holy Spirit flows between us followers of Jesus in His body of believers.

    Caution!

    Now do NOT allow me to touch money. I have dyscalculia and have relearned math 3 times in my adult life… what GOD gives he also takes away lest we boast. I think addition, subtraction, multiplication and division is higher math!

    Offer made!
    Love Patty

    P.S. see you tomorrow on the bus ride to Watts Bar Dam and Uncle Gus’s BBQ. Joe was said he would “probably” come tomorrow to help us navigate… another problem I have is no directional skill at all!

    I literally got lost one time in a rotunda when I was working as an aid in our Pellissippi State Computer Lab. Sad!

    Reply

  40. ! VCPC Featured > HEY STEVE READ TODAY’s EMAILS about Noah’s Ark and the Covenant Rainbows !

    This is the kinda’ stuff I can do to help the church… again NO is a good answer too :)
    Offer made… Pastor Jack and Berit use my research and I do editing for them.

    Love, Patty

    Reply

  41. Pastor Steve and the dear readers,

    I pray to keep Christ’s 2 Love Commandments:
    Love God with all my heart, soul, mind, and strength.
    Love others before myself by putting their welfare above my own.
    I pray for humility in everything I do and say for correction by the exegesis of the indwelling Holy Spirit.
    I pray the Holy Spirit keeps killing the fleshly old man left over sins I commit by commission or omission everyday by thought and deed so I may more closely follow Jesus’ example.
    I pray each morning that I may take up my cross with the strength He supplies me.

    Will I ever be good enough to enter Heaven?
    No, not by my own speed or works.
    I pray to be a witness of God’s unending love for a sinner such as me.

    He took the stripes, was crucified and buried and rose again from the dead to rise and sit upon The Throne with the Father.

    I pray I may be bold in all situations so I may recount to as many as possible my testimony of the very time I surrendered myself to Jesus.
    He mercifully spared me unto eternal life so I may never be separated from Him.
    I have been saved by His grace alone.

    I pray thanking God the Father who sent the Good Shepherd, Jesus Iesous Y’shua Christ Christos to me so that I may have eyes to see and ears to hear Him ever more clearly as I walk.

    I pray with great humility that He saved this lost sheep for His pleasure doing His works and not my own.

    I pray at the time of great temptation I be preserved from committing Spiritual suicide when I am brought up before evil tribunals.

    The only unpardonable sin is committed then if we deny Jesus’ saving grace in front of this sheer wicked tribunal.
    If we are ashamed of Him He will be ashamed of us before the Father.
    I pray my mouth opens and the Holy Spirit supplies the Words at this most critical time.

    Thanks, praise, and all glory go to the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit – The Great GOD Almighty – I AM that I AM.
    Acts 17:11; Romans 8; John 17.
    Amen!

    Great Sermon this week per usual, Thank you Pastor Steve!
    Covered was Luke 18 the parable of the Priest and the tax collector the very subject of this devotional Steve has presented to us.

    Love and affection to you all my Christian brethren and dear Pastor Steve most assuredly!
    Serving Him alone with you Pastor Steve,

    Patty

    Reply

  42. God’s Promise vs. Man’s Efforts

    [In part please read the wonderful Berean Bible Devotional and consider signing up for email delivery each date.]

    URL to article: https://www.bereanbiblesociety.org/gods-promise-vs-mans-efforts/

    “For if they which are of the law be heirs, faith is made void, and the promise made of none effect: Because the law worketh wrath…” (Rom. 4:14,15).

    Gal. 3:18 says: “If the inheritance be of the law it is no more of promise, but God gave it to Abraham by promise.”

    “Wherefore then serveth the law? It was added because of transgressions” (Gal. 3:19), “that every mouth may be stopped, and all the world may be brought in guilty before God” (Rom. 3:19). “Therefore by the deeds of the law there shall no flesh be justified in His sight, for by the law is the knowledge of sin” (Rom. 3:20)

    Our only hope? God has promised to give eternal life to those who trust in His Son (John 3:35,36; Acts 16:31; etc.).
    “The gift of God is eternal life, through Jesus Christ our Lord” (Rom. 6:23).

    Amen!

    Reply

  43. A law student fresh out of law school told Joe and I this…
    There is a great deal of difference between what is legal and what is justice. God is the only just judge.

    Consider what the “Supreme Court” has done lately… what is legal in their minds is indeed not justice or moral and smacks in the face of the One Just GOD.

    Here is another one… man proposes GOD disposes.

    Reply

  45. I sent this to our distro list. Dr. Stanley the Pastor of the First Baptist Church of Atlanta, GA
    http://links.intouchministries.mkt4193.com/servlet/MailView?ms=MTU3Mzk2NjcS1&r=MTA4MjM2ODk0OTQxS0&j=ODgxOTcwNDk3S0&mt=1&rt=0

    In Touch Ministries by Dr. Charles Stanley
    ————-
    [My comments to the Pastors, Blood and Adopted Family
    Do you know someone that doesn’t know they are supposed to tell God the Father of their sins of commission and omission every day?

    Do you ask for forgiveness to show your love for GOD who righteously HATES SIN?

    In this way we are pleasing to the Father. He reads hearts and already knows our sins but he wants us to recognize them and ask for help to repent of them.

    Praise GOD and thank Him for correction through the Holy Spirit. Thank GOD the Father for His Only Begotten Son being a One Time Perfect Sacrifice by paying for our sins on the Cross and rose from the dead to sit upon the Throne and is our intercessor. To do otherwise we show our ingratitude.

    We show no Holy Spiritual growth and are being disobedient.

    So pray to the Father in the Name of the Son frequently throughout the day.

    The Bible says pray “without ceasing.”

    Apologize when you are wrong and ask GOD’s forgiveness to send you help so you may draw even closer to Him.

    Now we all know people who call themselves “christian” and are far from it.

    They think they are saved but the forget the proviso “… IF you follow me … “ (Jesus) by picking up your cross everyday. LOVE GOD; LOVE OTHERS FIRST, then and only then comes you.

    Patty, a sinner saved by grace alone and not of my works.
    Pray for me people as I pray for you first.

    —————————–
    October 27, 2016
    God’s Call to Repentance
    Luke 15:11-24

    In the parable of the prodigal son, the younger brother asked for his inheritance early so he might live as he chose. Once the father gave him his share, the young man made many unwise choices that led to hunger and destitution. What happened next illustrates the principles of godly repentance.

    After squandering all of his money, the wayward son found work feeding pigs, a bottom-of-the-barrel kind of job. One day he came to his senses and recognized his terrible plight. His repentance began with an awareness of his wrong choices and the fact that his bad situation was due to them.

    Knowing that his difficulties came from unrighteous behavior, the prodigal grieved over his mistakes and acknowledged his sin (Luke 15:18). He declared he was no longer worthy to be his father’s son. Godly sorrow and confession led the young man to leave that place and go home. His repentance was made complete when he turned away from his old ways and returned to his father. The Lord likewise calls us to repent and return to Him.

    What a welcome the prodigal son received! Upon seeing him, the father was filled with compassion and ran to embrace him. Forgiveness and acceptance were extended to the son. Both are blessings that God freely offers to whoever asks Him.

    The prodigal son did not clean himself up before returning home. He simply left his old life, turned toward home, and trusted in his father’s mercy. The heavenly Father calls us to repent and offers us forgiveness when we turn away from our self-centered ways and move toward godliness (1 John 1:9).

    Amen!

    Reply

  47. Hi Pastor Steve!
    Here is a link and article I sent you 5 Pastors.
    Very important for all congregations to read and be posted multiple places on the Internet.

    When Pastors Aren’t Able to Pastor
    by Jim Elliff, Christian Communicators
    http://www.ccwtoday.org/article/when-pastors-arent-able-to-pastor/
    The church is medium-sized in attendance, yet, on paper the membership roll is even larger. Its solo pastor is a frustrated man. There are some good days, and certainly some fine people who encourage him, but he’s frustrated because the job God called him to do just cannot be done. He has many people to tend to, numbers of which are missing, and even those who are present are more than any average man could possibly care for—that is, really care for.
    So, this good-hearted, spiritually-minded pastor lapses into frustration over his inability to do much more than put out fires. And there are plenty of those.
    He tries to project the view that he is a true shepherd of all the people. He speaks in warm terms to those attending on Sundays, and to all of the people through the church’s regular publications. The website shows him as if he were the best friend and confidant of all the members, constantly attending to their spiritual growth, mentoring, guiding, and comforting. But the blurb under his photo is only a wish and not a reality. He actually is only able to pastor an inner core on that level—perhaps twenty to thirty, at most. He sometimes thinks that his loving words are no different than those of the TV preacher who looks into the camera and acts as if he is directly speaking to the listener as his dearest friend. He has become a pastor who is not able to pastor.
    Across town is the fastest growing church. They are driven by entertainment, appealing music, and a large staff. Sometimes his members visit there, just out of curiosity or perhaps out of the need to have a little relief from the sedate experience they are used to. When a special event comes to the mega-church, perhaps several of his members attend, including his own children. It often adds to his frustration, though he would not say much about it.
    The pastor of the mega-church expresses his love for the people also. In fact, he may be better at saying it than the pastor of the smaller church. His website portrays him in several photos and videos as a caring, magnanimous friend of the people, who all smile and love him.
    Yet, if the truth were known, the fast-growing church has more of a pastor/people gap than the smaller church. And in that church even a higher percentage of the people do not attend. It is not necessarily because the large church pastor is any more or less interested in shepherding people. He can hardly be blamed for the fact that people love to hear him speak and that his staff is able to carry out programs that attract. Yet, behind the scenes, the larger church pastor is often frustrated as well. As he reads the Bible, he sees that there is much he is not doing that God requires of him. He gets accolades from the people, more than the first pastor, but before God he often feels he’s a failure—and that the size of his church only amplifies his failings.
    What can be done?
    Perhaps the problem here is not in the pastors themselves, but in the structure of the churches. They are designed for pastoral separation from the people, and all the more so as they grow. The solutions would have much to do with multiplying pastors, decentralizing, and dividing the church into pastoral units, not in a corporate business way, but into true manageable cells led by qualified men. The early church did this naturally, by multiplying house churches. But that solution may never come, if it is even envisioned by these men and their churches. Suppose the macro-solution then is not possible. What else could be done? Especially, what could be done by you, the person who needs a pastor for your own spiritual well-being and growth?
    Here are some ways you can help overcome the pastor/member gap:
    1. Work harder at knowing your pastor. If he is not able, due to time, to pour his life into you in a personal way, don’t just give up and remain distant. Men, invite him to your home, take him out to lunch, become his encourager. He will, in turn, carry on a certain level of mentorship just because it is in his spiritual genes to do so. Women, this first point will not work as well for you for obvious reasons if you are single or your husband does not attend, yet remaining as appropriately friendly as possible is always an improvement.
    2. Build relationships with others who have potential to increase your faith and improve your walk with God. Perhaps there is a man and his wife in the church who would be on the pastoral team if such a team existed. Seek to draw out spiritual help and understanding of Scripture from them, and reciprocate by encouraging them and serving them in practical ways.
    3. Take on a discipleship role yourself. Look around to see who could be helped by your ministry to them. Approach them on a friendship level. Then after getting together, depending on how well you work with each other, figure out a way to be together regularly for Bible study and prayer, even if all you can do is read the Bible, comment and pray.
    4. Take on some of the difficult people of the church and seek to meet their needs. In churches, it is often the case that just one person demands almost all the pastor’s time that is available. And when he is not around, the pastor’s wife may have the privilege. Share that load with your pastor. Talk with him to see if he has suggestions as to how you can free him by helping out.
    5. Finally, offer your services to your pastor personally. Both men and women may be helpful in appropriate ways. Ask him how you may serve him in extending his care for others. It might mean making hospital visits, checking on widows, phoning members, or making contact with guests who’ve come to visit the church.
    If only a few church members live out some or all of the above suggestions—perhaps if even one does it—significant improvement will be made in the church you love.

    Reply

  48. Cross References: (ESV)
    9 But you are 1a chosen race, 2a royal 3priesthood, 4a holy nation, 5a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you 6out of darkness into 7his marvelous light.
    • 79 2:9 – Deut. 10:15 ; Isa. 43:20
    • 80 2:9 – Ex. 19:6 ; Rev. 1:6 ; 5:10
    • 81 2:9 – Isa. 61:6 ; 66:21
    • 82 2:9 – Deut. 7:6
    • 83 2:9 – Ex. 19:5 ; Deut. 7:6 ; Isa. 43:21 ; Mal. 3:17
    • 84 2:9 – [ Isa. 42:16 ]; See Acts 26:18
    • 85 2:9 – Ps. 36:9
    1 Peter 2:9 ESV
    Read 1 Peter 2

    Reply

  49. John Gill explains what is our Holy Priesthood

    a royal priesthood;
    referring to ( Exodus 19:6 ) , where the Israelites are called a “kingdom of priests”; which the Chaldee paraphrase renders, kings, priests; see ( Revelation 1:6 ) a character which one of the Jewish commentators says F25 shall return to the Jews (abl dytel) , “in time to come”; and well agrees with all the people of Christ, whether Jews or Gentiles, who are all of them kings, through their relation to Christ; and at the present time have a kingdom which cannot be moved, or taken away from them; being not only brought into the Gospel dispensation, the kingdom of the Messiah, and having a right to all the privileges and immunities of it, but have also the kingdom of grace set up within them, or grace, as a reigning principle, implanted in them; which lies not in anything external, but in righteousness and true holiness, in inward peace, and spiritual joy; and they have the power of kings over sin, Satan, and the world; and the riches of kings, being possessed of the riches of grace now, and entitled to the riches of glory in another world; they live like kings, they wear royal apparel, the robe of Christ’s righteousness; they sit at the king’s table, and feed on royal dainties; and are attended on as kings, angels being their life guards, and ministering spirits to them; and hereafter they shall reign with Christ on earth, and that for the space of a thousand years, and, after that, for ever: being raised up from a low estate, to inherit the crown of glory, to wear the crown of life and righteousness, and possess the kingdom prepared for them from the foundation of the world, of which they are now heirs: and they are “priests”, as well as kings; being made so by Christ, and through his priestly office; are anointed with the Holy Ghost, and sanctified by his grace, and allowed to draw near to God, and offer up by Christ their spiritual sacrifices of prayer and praise; and are enabled and assisted to offer up the sacrifice of a broken heart, and their bodies also, and even their lives when called to it; the allusion is to the kingdom and priesthood being formerly together, and which met in Christ, ( Zechariah 6:13 ) and in his people. The Jews were wont to call the priestly dignity and office (hnhk rtk) , “the crown of the priesthood” F26:
    6 And ye shall be unto me a kingdom of priests, and an holy nation. These are the words which thou shalt speak unto the children of Israel.
    Exodus 19:6 KJV
    6 And hath made us kings and priests unto God and his Father; to him be glory and dominion for ever
    and ever. Amen.

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  50. Dearest Readers:

    Be sure to read what our High Priest Jesus Iesous Y’shua prayed to the Father in our behalf shortly before he was crucified. I am ever encouraged by this one of my favorite Chapters of the Bible along with Romans 8.

    John 17 (ESV)
    The High Priestly Prayer
    1 When Jesus had spoken these words, he lifted up his eyes to heaven, and said, “Father, the hour has come; glorify your Son that the Son may glorify you,
    2 since you have given him authority over all flesh, to give eternal life to all whom you have given him.
    3 And this is eternal life, that they know you the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent.

    [Please go to the page and read the whole Chapter 17. Also check out the KJV and John Gill’s Commentary]

    Reply

  51. We all slip. The biggest thing is to listen to the Holy Spirit when He corrects us. When we are pruned we are supposed to immediately ask for GOD’s forgiveness and if we wrong another we must make amends to that person.
    GOD is well pleased with us THROUGH Jesus when we repent, as for direction, and try not to repeat.
    We sin against GOD. But He is quick to forgive IF we follow Him and take up our crosses.
    Growing in grace is a day-by-day process. GOD wants us to make progress on our walk as we seek Jesus’ sweet face.

    Saint Paul had to grow in knowledge and allow the fruit of the Spirit correct to him.

    We all have some rotten grapes to expel don’t we? Each our own unique sins and circumstances.

    Read the whole Chapter of Romans 8 everyone.
    In part:

    25 But if we hope for what we do not see, we wait for it with patience.
    26 Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words.
    27 And he who searches hearts knows what is the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints according to the will of God.

    14 For all who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God.
    15 For you did not receive the spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received the Spirit of adoption as sons, by whom we cry, “Abba! Father!”
    16 The Spirit himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God,
    17 and if children, then heirs–heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ, provided we suffer with him in order that we may also be glorified with him.

    The Assurance that Saint Paul learned about His relationship to GOD Three-in-One:

    37 … in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.
    38 For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers,
    39 nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.
    28 And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.
    29 For those whom he foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, in order that he might be the firstborn among many brothers.
    30 And those whom he predestined he also called, and those whom he called he also justified, and those whom he justified he also glorified.

    AMEN!

    Reply

  52. Dear Steve,

    You were forgiven you know. And the Holy Spirit corrected you.

    Here are two great study pages about The Fruit of the Spirit compiled by our joint friend and sister Berit Kjos. She is possibly the bravest and the best watchmen I have ever known personally – a strong, strong Biblical Christian since 1971.

    The FRUIT of the Spirit is the sign of true FAITH
    http://www.crossroad.to/HisWord/verses/topics/fruit.htm

    The work of the Holy Spirit
    http://www.crossroad.to/HisWord/verses/topics/spirit.htm

    Smile Steve GOD loves you a few rotten grapes are not history.

    Love yah!

    Patty

    Reply

  53. Amen!

    I feed and drink of the Holy Bible everyday. My days have progressively improved since I discovered the truly the greatest Book ever written.

    Our Guidebook for life here and for everlasting life as the ribbon is parted.

    I maintain that everything we need is written in the Bible. It may not use my name within the pages and my peculiar situations but the answer is always there. Just pray for direction by the Holy Spirit. As we read more we grow in His Grace.

    Patty

    Reply

  54. This is keeper information to cut and paste to a document or send yourself an email and drives.
    The next time you encounter someone who says the Bible is not the truth and GOD does not exist have these thoughts handy.
    We are told to be ready at all times to give the reason for our faith and hope in Jesus Christ.
    If you don’t read the Bible how will you respond with confidence and reasons for even the most skeptical?

    Fulfillment of Prophesy and the Truth of the Bible
    The Mathematical Proof for Christianity Is Irrefutable
    http://www.christianpost.com/news/the-mathematical-proof-for-christianity-is-irrefutable-96295/#sybZudqFM9geUlfb.99

    The Messiah and Jerusalem: The Amazing Prophecy of Daniel
    http://www.bible.ca/ef/expository-daniel-9-24-27.htm

    The Messiah
    http://www.bible-history.com/old-testament/the-messiah.html

    Messianic Prophecy
    http://www.bible-history.com/messianicprophecy/

    Is there any conclusive proof of God?
    https://ebible.com/questions/385-is-there-any-conclusive-proof-of-god

    In the Lord’s freedom to explore His creation……….warrior on!
    Patty

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