Where do you start if you want to discover God’s purpose for your life? How do you know if you are on the right path or if you are following the wrong road? God’s purpose for humanity is peace, joy in spite of circumstances and abundant life.
Step 1: God’s purpose: peace and Life
Only when man is justified the guilt of sin will be taken away and that makes a way for peace with the Creator. There is more in this God given peace than merely a cessation of enmity. There is friendship and loving kindness from God and the curse of enmity will be broken completely and man begins to enjoy peace with God. “Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.” Rom 5:1.
God gave us Jesus Christ to suffer and die as the great propitiation or expiatory sacrifice, so that we might not die by the sentence of the law. “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” Jn 3:16. This is the unspeakable happiness of all true believers that they are saved from the eternal miseries of hell because they are totally pardoned and they will be entitled to the joys of heaven. “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 aabundantly.”Jn10:10.
Step 2: The problem: Our separation
It is our choice that resulted in separation from God. God created us in His own image so that we will have fellowship with Him and have an abundant life. He also gave us a will and a freedom of choice either to obey Him or not. Even if we disobey and make a choice with our freedom in our willful way we are making a choice and this separate us form God. It is SIN that breeds a quarrel between man and God and creates that great gulf and enmity. The Holy, righteous, awesome, Omnipotent, Omniscient, Omnipresent God can not be at peace with a sinner while he continues to be sinning and under the guilt of sin. “For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God.” Rom 3:23. “For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.” Rom 6:23.
Out attempts to reach God has resulted in total failure; and people have tried many ways to bridge the gap between themselves and God by their good works, religions, Philosophies and morality. “There is a way that seemeth right unto man, but the end thereof are the ways of death.” Prov 14:12. “But your iniquities have separated between you and God, and your sins have hid his face from you, that he will not hear.” Isa 59:2.
Step 3: God’s Bridge: The Cross
Jesus Christ died on the Cross and rose from the grave; and He paid the penalty for our sin and bridged the gap between man and God. “For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus.” 1 Tim 2:5. “For Christ also hath once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that he might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh, but quickened by the Spirit.”1 Pet 3:18. “But God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” Rom 5:8. God not only proved or evidenced His love, but magnified it and made it very illustrious for His glory. This is the greatest wonder and administration, and humanity will not be able to fathom God’s Love that He would give His one and only Son for mankind! God in His love has provided the one and only way for mankind to have peace with God. Now it is up to each personal to make a choice. Choice either to live eternally or perish.
Step 4: Our response: Receive Christ
Where are you now? Are you living in sin and rebellion and separated from God? Or do you have peace with God, accepting His free gift of salvation? One must trust Jesus Christ as Lord and Savoir and receive Him into our lives by personal invitation. “Behold I stand at the door; and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come into him, and will sup with him, and he with me.” Rev 3:20. “But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on His name.” Jn 1:12. “That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.” Rom 10: 9.
Will you receive Jesus Christ right now?
As a sinner be willing to turn from your sinful ways; believe that Jesus Christ died for your sins on the cross and rose from the grave. Through prayer, invite Jesus Christ to come in and control your life through the Holy Spirit.
Prayer:
Dear Lord Jesus Christ, I acknowledge that I am a sinner and I ask you forgiveness for my sins. I believe You died for my sins and rose from the grave so that I can have eternal life. I want to turn from my sins, and I invite you to come into my heart and be a part of my life by the power of Your Holy Spirit. I want to trust You and follow You all the days of my life as my Lord and Savior. In Christ’s Name I pray; Amen.
If you have prayed this prayer you have the assurance according to God’s word as children of God; “For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.” Rom 10:13. Now you are born into God’s family through the supernatural work of the Holy Spirit who indwells every believer. This is called “regeneration” or “new birth”.
Website References:
1.How do I know what God's will is for my life? • ChristianAnswers.Net
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Discussion about how to know God's will for your life. ... (Jeremiah 1:5) and Paul (Galatians 1:15) for a specific purpose, he also has a specific plan for your life. ...
2.How to Know God's Purpose For My Life
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20 Dec 2009 – Learn how to know God's purpose for you life so you can make a difference in this world.
3.Am I living out God's purpose in my life?
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Am I living out God's purpose in my life? "What do you want to be when you grow up?" we ask children. As if we can choose whatever we want, and through...
4.You Have a Purpose - Key Biblical Purposes for Your Life (God's ...
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These Bible-based purposes will give direction to your daily life. ... Let's take a look at one of my favorite verses in the Bible: ... You are created for God's glory. ...
5.Discover Gods Purpose for your Life ... in 2 Easy Steps
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My Story Change your life SiteSearch. Shop! Ask Away Spread the Word Contact Us ... Step 1: First, follow God's overall purpose for your life. If you try to move to ...
6.God's Purpose or Mine? My Utmost For His Highest
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God's purpose is to enable me to see that He can walk on the storms of my life right now. If we have a further goal in mind, we are not paying enough attention to ...
7.Finding God's Will for My Life - Focus on the Family
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Overview; God's Will for My Life Part 2 of 3 · God's Will for My Life Part 3 of 3 · Who's ... in his multi-zillion selling book The Purpose Driven Life, "It's not about you. ...
8.God's purpose
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God's Sovereign Purpose for us ... But for this purpose I came to this hour. .... But none of these things move me; nor do I count my life dear to myself, so that I ...
Book References:
1. Jay E.Adams, ‘The Christian Counselor’s Manual, ‘The Practice of Nouthetic Counseling’ (Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1973)
2. John G. Kruis, ‘Quick Scripture Reference for Counseling; (Grand rapids: Baker Books, Third edition, p. 169-170)
3. David G. Benner & Peter C. Hill, ‘Baker Encyclopaedia of Psychology & Counseling’ Second Edition, (Grand Rapids: Baker Books, 1985, 1999)
4. Dr. Larry Crabb, “Effective Biblical Counseling” How Caring Christians can Become Capable Counselors, (Hammersmith: Marshall Pickering, 1985), p. 100-104).
5.The Matthew Henry Study Bible, ‘King James version’ The best of Matthew Henry’s Notes in a Handy One Volume Reference Bible, World Bible Publishers, Inc; 1994, Iowa Falls, U.S.A.
6. David Seeking A Heart Like His, ‘Beth Moore’ Life Way Christian resources, Nashville, Tennessee, 2010, pgs: 206-210.
7. Jay E. Adams, ‘Critical Stages of Biblical Counseling’ Finishing Well, Breaking Through, Getting Started, (New Jersey: Zondervan, 2002)
8. Jay E. Adams, ‘How to Help People Change’ The Four-step Biblical Process, (Grand rapids: Zondervan, 1986)
9. John F. MacArthur, JR. Wayne A. Mack & The Master’s College Faculty, ‘Introduction To Biblical Counseling’, “A Basic Guide To The Principles And Practice Of Counseling”(Nashville: Thomas Nelson Publishers,1994)
10. Jay E. Adams, ‘Lectures on Counseling’ (Grand Rapids: Baker Book House, 1978, p.192-203)
11. The Holy Bible, New King James version, Women of Destiny Bible, “Women Mentoring women Through the Scriptures” A Spirit Filled Life Bible, Thomas Nelson Publishers, Nashville, Tennessee, Copyright 1982.
Saturday, December 31, 2011
Friday, December 30, 2011
Eternal Life!
Immortality is the ability to live for ever and ever. It is unknown whether human physical immortality is an achievable condition. Biological forms have inherent limitations which may or may not be able to be overcome through medical interventions or engineering. [1]
Initially when God created Man, he was meant to live for ever and this “initial imperishability of the bodily frame of man” was uncorrupted before SIN entered in. Ever since the Fall of Adam and Eve our first parents (Genesis 3) lost physical immortality themselves and for all their descendents and that is a curse to humanity.
Christians who profess Nicene Creed believe that every dead person will be resurrected from the dead and this belief is known as the ‘Universal Resurrection’. Specific imagery of resurrection into immortal form is found in God’s Word.
“Behold, I shew you a mystery; we shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed. In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed. For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality. So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory. O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory? The sting of death is sin; and the strength of sin is the law. But thanks be unto God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye steadfast, unmovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, for asmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord.”1 Cori 15: 51-58.
Jesus said eternal life is knowing God and that means having an intimate, close personal relationship with God. A genuine believer who confessed Jesus as Lord and Savior is saved and after the last judgment day will live in the presence of God for ever.
“Who will render to every man according to his deeds: To them who by patient continuance in well doing seek for glory and honour and immortality, eternal life.”Rom 2: 16-17. God will indeed demonstrate divine justice as He gives man the appropriate recompense for his actions: eternal life for his obedience or eternal condemnation for his disobedience. In Christian living it is not enough to know well and do well; but also one has to demonstrate patience and persevere at doing well.
N.T Wright, a former Bishop of Durham, has said many people forget the physical aspect of what Jesus promised. He told Time: "Jesus' resurrection marks the beginning of a restoration that he will complete upon his return. Part of this will be the resurrection of the dead, who will 'awake', be embodied and participate in the renewal”. [2]
The heavenly inheritance is incorruptible and never fades away; “To an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you.” 1 Pet 1:4. Our present bodies are corruptible flesh and blood. How can the perishable become incorruptible? It has to be changed into an ever-during substance before it can be capable of possessing the heavenly inheritance. The bodies of the saints when they rise up from the dead will be greatly changed from what they are now to a much better state. They will be changed to an incorruptible, glorious, and spiritual bodies which will be fitted to the celestial world and state. This incorruptible body is ever afterwards to dwell and have their eternal inheritance. “Now this I say brethren, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God; neither doth corruption inherit incorruption.”1 Cori 15:50.
Just like Eternal Life there is Eternal death and that according to God’s Word is a realm of constant physical and spiritual anguish in a lake of fire. Some see the fires of hell as a theological metaphor representing the inescapable presence of God endured in absence of love for God. Some others suggested that Hell represents complete destruction of both the physical body and of spiritual existence. An unbeliever and the wicked will be estranged from the presence of God, and will be abandoned to never- ending conscious of guilt and this will be the punishment for their sin.
To those who do well God will reward with heavenly glory and honour and everlasting life! Heaven is the undoubted inheritance of all the children of God. God gives His gifts to all, but the inheritance to none but His children.
Website References:
1.Immortality - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ImmortalityCached - Similar
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Eternal life can also be defined as a timeless existence, which is also not known for certain to be achievable, or even definable, despite millennia of arguments ...
Biological immortality - Immortality in fiction - Immortality test - Crown of Immortality
2. Eternal Life - Item - World of Warcraft
www.wowhead.com/item=35625/eternal-lifeCached - Similar
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Eternal Life is an item dropped by elemental NPCs; it is used for crafting. It is crafted, looted and sold by NPCs.
3.What is eternal life?
www.raptureready.com/faq/faq114.htmlCached - Similar
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What is eternal life? It is difficult for the human mind to conceive the concept of eternity. A lifetime is a long time. Is eternity two lifetimes? Three? Four? Is there a ...
4.John 17:3 Now this is eternal life: that they may know you, the only ...
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This is life eternal - This is the source of eternal life; or it is in this manner that it is to be obtained. The knowledge of God and of his Son Jesus Christ is itself a ...
5.How to get to heaven/eternal life
www.jesus-is-lord.com/2_heaven.htmCached - Similar
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How to get to heaven and have eternal, everlasting life. Eternal life is found only in the Lord Jesus Christ, the Saviour of the world. You need the blood of Jesus.
6.Eternallife.net
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7’Eternal Life - Article - Andrew Wommack Ministries
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Andrew Wommack teaches that eternal life is not just living forever.
Book References:
1. Jay E.Adams, ‘The Christian Counselor’s Manual, ‘The Practice of Nouthetic Counseling’ (Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1973)
2. John G. Kruis, ‘Quick Scripture Reference for Counseling; (Grand rapids: Baker Books, Third edition, p. 169-170)
3. David G. Benner & Peter C. Hill, ‘Baker Encyclopaedia of Psychology & Counseling’ Second Edition, (Grand Rapids: Baker Books, 1985, 1999)
4. Dr. Larry Crabb, “Effective Biblical Counseling” How Caring Christians can Become Capable Counselors, (Hammersmith: Marshall Pickering, 1985), p. 100-104).
5.The Matthew Henry Study Bible, ‘King James version’ The best of Matthew Henry’s Notes in a Handy One Volume Reference Bible, World Bible Publishers, Inc; 1994, Iowa Falls, U.S.A.
6. David Seeking A Heart Like His, ‘Beth Moore’ Life Way Christian resources, Nashville, Tennessee, 2010, pgs: 206-210.
7. Jay E. Adams, ‘Critical Stages of Biblical Counseling’ Finishing Well, Breaking Through, Getting Started, (New Jersey: Zondervan, 2002)
8. Jay E. Adams, ‘How to Help People Change’ The Four-step Biblical Process, (Grand rapids: Zondervan, 1986)
9. John F. MacArthur, JR. Wayne A. Mack & The Master’s College Faculty, ‘Introduction To Biblical Counseling’, “A Basic Guide To The Principles And Practice Of Counseling”(Nashville: Thomas Nelson Publishers,1994)
10. Jay E. Adams, ‘Lectures on Counseling’ (Grand Rapids: Baker Book House, 1978, p.192-203)
11. The Holy Bible, New King James version, Women of Destiny Bible, “Women Mentoring women Through the Scriptures” A Spirit Filled Life Bible, Thomas Nelson Publishers, Nashville, Tennessee, Copyright 1982.
Initially when God created Man, he was meant to live for ever and this “initial imperishability of the bodily frame of man” was uncorrupted before SIN entered in. Ever since the Fall of Adam and Eve our first parents (Genesis 3) lost physical immortality themselves and for all their descendents and that is a curse to humanity.
Christians who profess Nicene Creed believe that every dead person will be resurrected from the dead and this belief is known as the ‘Universal Resurrection’. Specific imagery of resurrection into immortal form is found in God’s Word.
“Behold, I shew you a mystery; we shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed. In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed. For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality. So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory. O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory? The sting of death is sin; and the strength of sin is the law. But thanks be unto God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye steadfast, unmovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, for asmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord.”1 Cori 15: 51-58.
Jesus said eternal life is knowing God and that means having an intimate, close personal relationship with God. A genuine believer who confessed Jesus as Lord and Savior is saved and after the last judgment day will live in the presence of God for ever.
“Who will render to every man according to his deeds: To them who by patient continuance in well doing seek for glory and honour and immortality, eternal life.”Rom 2: 16-17. God will indeed demonstrate divine justice as He gives man the appropriate recompense for his actions: eternal life for his obedience or eternal condemnation for his disobedience. In Christian living it is not enough to know well and do well; but also one has to demonstrate patience and persevere at doing well.
N.T Wright, a former Bishop of Durham, has said many people forget the physical aspect of what Jesus promised. He told Time: "Jesus' resurrection marks the beginning of a restoration that he will complete upon his return. Part of this will be the resurrection of the dead, who will 'awake', be embodied and participate in the renewal”. [2]
The heavenly inheritance is incorruptible and never fades away; “To an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you.” 1 Pet 1:4. Our present bodies are corruptible flesh and blood. How can the perishable become incorruptible? It has to be changed into an ever-during substance before it can be capable of possessing the heavenly inheritance. The bodies of the saints when they rise up from the dead will be greatly changed from what they are now to a much better state. They will be changed to an incorruptible, glorious, and spiritual bodies which will be fitted to the celestial world and state. This incorruptible body is ever afterwards to dwell and have their eternal inheritance. “Now this I say brethren, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God; neither doth corruption inherit incorruption.”1 Cori 15:50.
Just like Eternal Life there is Eternal death and that according to God’s Word is a realm of constant physical and spiritual anguish in a lake of fire. Some see the fires of hell as a theological metaphor representing the inescapable presence of God endured in absence of love for God. Some others suggested that Hell represents complete destruction of both the physical body and of spiritual existence. An unbeliever and the wicked will be estranged from the presence of God, and will be abandoned to never- ending conscious of guilt and this will be the punishment for their sin.
To those who do well God will reward with heavenly glory and honour and everlasting life! Heaven is the undoubted inheritance of all the children of God. God gives His gifts to all, but the inheritance to none but His children.
Website References:
1.Immortality - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ImmortalityCached - Similar
You +1'd this publicly. Undo
Eternal life can also be defined as a timeless existence, which is also not known for certain to be achievable, or even definable, despite millennia of arguments ...
Biological immortality - Immortality in fiction - Immortality test - Crown of Immortality
2. Eternal Life - Item - World of Warcraft
www.wowhead.com/item=35625/eternal-lifeCached - Similar
You +1'd this publicly. Undo
Eternal Life is an item dropped by elemental NPCs; it is used for crafting. It is crafted, looted and sold by NPCs.
3.What is eternal life?
www.raptureready.com/faq/faq114.htmlCached - Similar
You +1'd this publicly. Undo
What is eternal life? It is difficult for the human mind to conceive the concept of eternity. A lifetime is a long time. Is eternity two lifetimes? Three? Four? Is there a ...
4.John 17:3 Now this is eternal life: that they may know you, the only ...
bible.cc/john/17-3.htmCached - Similar
You +1'd this publicly. Undo
This is life eternal - This is the source of eternal life; or it is in this manner that it is to be obtained. The knowledge of God and of his Son Jesus Christ is itself a ...
5.How to get to heaven/eternal life
www.jesus-is-lord.com/2_heaven.htmCached - Similar
You +1'd this publicly. Undo
How to get to heaven and have eternal, everlasting life. Eternal life is found only in the Lord Jesus Christ, the Saviour of the world. You need the blood of Jesus.
6.Eternallife.net
www.eternallife.net/Cached - SimilarYou +1'd this publicly. Undo
7’Eternal Life - Article - Andrew Wommack Ministries
www.awmi.net › Home › Extras › Teaching ArticlesCached
You +1'd this publicly. Undo
Andrew Wommack teaches that eternal life is not just living forever.
Book References:
1. Jay E.Adams, ‘The Christian Counselor’s Manual, ‘The Practice of Nouthetic Counseling’ (Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1973)
2. John G. Kruis, ‘Quick Scripture Reference for Counseling; (Grand rapids: Baker Books, Third edition, p. 169-170)
3. David G. Benner & Peter C. Hill, ‘Baker Encyclopaedia of Psychology & Counseling’ Second Edition, (Grand Rapids: Baker Books, 1985, 1999)
4. Dr. Larry Crabb, “Effective Biblical Counseling” How Caring Christians can Become Capable Counselors, (Hammersmith: Marshall Pickering, 1985), p. 100-104).
5.The Matthew Henry Study Bible, ‘King James version’ The best of Matthew Henry’s Notes in a Handy One Volume Reference Bible, World Bible Publishers, Inc; 1994, Iowa Falls, U.S.A.
6. David Seeking A Heart Like His, ‘Beth Moore’ Life Way Christian resources, Nashville, Tennessee, 2010, pgs: 206-210.
7. Jay E. Adams, ‘Critical Stages of Biblical Counseling’ Finishing Well, Breaking Through, Getting Started, (New Jersey: Zondervan, 2002)
8. Jay E. Adams, ‘How to Help People Change’ The Four-step Biblical Process, (Grand rapids: Zondervan, 1986)
9. John F. MacArthur, JR. Wayne A. Mack & The Master’s College Faculty, ‘Introduction To Biblical Counseling’, “A Basic Guide To The Principles And Practice Of Counseling”(Nashville: Thomas Nelson Publishers,1994)
10. Jay E. Adams, ‘Lectures on Counseling’ (Grand Rapids: Baker Book House, 1978, p.192-203)
11. The Holy Bible, New King James version, Women of Destiny Bible, “Women Mentoring women Through the Scriptures” A Spirit Filled Life Bible, Thomas Nelson Publishers, Nashville, Tennessee, Copyright 1982.
Wednesday, December 28, 2011
The Brevity of Life!
As soon as we are born we begin to die! As human beings we do not like to talk about our mortality, and very often we speak as if the things would continue as in the past. However deep down inside of us we know, anything can happen to us any time, and things would turn around us differently in a fraction of a second.
Man in his prime indeed flourishes, but only as a grass and he does wither away, and all his glory is like the flowers in the field. This should make any one to immediately recognize God’s absolute sovereign dominion over man and His absolute power to dispose of man as He pleases.
In Psalm 39, King David was contemplating on the brevity of life, and says that our life time is nothing compared to eternity and eternal God. King David realized greatly the insignificance of our lives in the greater schemes of this world.
“As for man, his days are as grass: as a flower of the field, so he flourishes. But the wind passeth over it, and it is gone; and the place thereof shall know it no more.”Psa 103: 15-16.
“Whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapour that appeareth for a little time, and then vanishes away.” Jam 4:14.
“How can one meditate on live without meditating too on its brevity, its precariousness, its fragility”? Andre Comte-Sponville, French philosopher, The Little Book of Philosophy. Meditating in life is to meditate in its brevity. The brevity of life is one of the more common themes of human existential thought. There is authentic poetry in many ancient reflexions on this brevity, and the inevitability of death and nothingness.
Comparisons:
II Samuel 14:14 - Like water spilt on the ground
I Chronicles 29:15 - Like a shadow, it will not stay
Job 7:6-7 - Like a weaver's shuttle, or the wind
Job 9:25-26 - Like a swift messenger, a swift ship, or a swooping eagle
Job 14:1 - Few days, like a flower
Psalms 78:39 - Like a wind
Psalms 90:9 - Like a sigh
Psalms 103:15-16 - Like grass, leaving no memory
James 4:14 - Like a mist or the vapor from a pot
The Need to Remember How Short Life Is:
Psalms 90:12- Causes us to act more wisely: “So teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom.” We ask the Lord to give us grace to fully understand and consider how few are our number of days in this planet earth and how little more we have to live in this world. Based on this we have to live our life with double intelligence, and live carefully as if there is no more time left in this earth for us. We can ask for Divine instruction and help so that we can live our life in full for God’s glory.
Ecclesiastes 7:2-4 - Gives us a more balanced view of life: “It is better to go to the house of mourning, than to go to the house of feasting: for that is the end of all men; and the living will lay it to his heart. Sorrow is better than laughter: for by the sadness of the countenance the heart is made better. The heart of the wise is in the house of mourning; but the heart of fools is in the house of mirth.” From the above God’s Word we understand that the house of mourning is the wise man’s school, where he is serious, and learns a lot of lessons, and his heart is there to improve the spectacles of mortality that are presented to him. God’s Word also stresses the fact that the character of a fool is that his heart wants to be in the house of mirth to be merry and jovial. He takes delight in sport, gaiety, merry making, merry songs, and merry days, merry nights and wants to be in the company of merry making people. Very often sadness is a happy means of seriousness which is better for our souls and a wise man learns from it.
We need to understand the measure of our days and see how fleeting our lives are. We have so much undone and unsaid, and we have to appreciate each passing moment and not simply assume tomorrow will be available to us. We have to learn quickly from other people’s mistakes who agonize that they do not have more time to spend with their family members and do not have enough time to say and do the final things they would want to do if they were given some more time in this planet earth. Above all we have to learn the value of serving our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ today because we may not have tomorrow to get our lives right with God.
Making the most of every opportunity is wise; “redeem the time because the days are evil.” Eph 5:16. Pursuit of the things of this world is vanity and we have to pursue the most important: which is our relationship with God, and our relationship with family members and other believers. We need to treat each other the way we would expect others to treat us, and we should not assume that time will be granted to us tomorrow with these people. Life is very fragile, and it should be handled with prayer with Divine help, so that we can maximize our time and not regret the life we lived!
Web References:
1. Life is Short: The Brevity of Life
The Brevity and fragility of Life . As for man, his days are as grass: as a flower of the field, so he flourishes. But the wind passes over, and soon all disappears; and his ...
www.meaningsoflife.com/Life-is-short.htm
2. Brevity of Life
Brevity of Life Comparisons. II Samuel 14:14 - Like water spilt on the ground; I Chronicles 29:15 - Like a shadow, it will not stay; Job 7:6-7 - Like a weaver's shuttle, or the ...
www.lavistachurchofchrist.org/LVIndex/brevity.htm
3. The Brevity of Life Lessons For Daily Living Christian Monthly ...
As humans, we do not like to think about our own immortality. We are not interesting in speaking in terms of there not being a tomorrow. Rather, we speak as if
www.christianmonthlystandard.com/index.php/the-brevity-of-life
4. Psalm 39, The Brevity of Life West Palm Beach church of Christ
Introduction: Psalm 39 is another psalm of David. However, the superscription of the psalm tells us that this psalm is to Jeduthun. We can read a little
westpalmbeachchurchofchrist.com/old-testament/psalms/psalm_39.html
5."The Brevity of Life" : Articles : HEARTLIGHT® Magazine
How can we discern the time we have and number our days in a proper manner -- we cannot unless we look to the Lord for his help, his presence, and his guidance.
www.heartlight.org/articles/200710/20071014_brevity.html
6. Brevity of Life: Scripture and Commentary
Scripture and commentary on the brevity of life. ... 2 Samuel 14:14 14 For we must needs die, and are as water spilt on the ground, which cannot be gathered up again; neither ...
www.scriptureandmusic.com/Topics/Text_Files/Life_Brevity.html
7. Brevity Quotes Brevity Sayings Love Quotes and Sayings
Here are some brevity quotes and sayings that might inspire you to start being more brief and get to the point soon, without having to beat around the bush much
www.soundoflife.net/brevity-quotes
8. Life is Like a Vapor. Bible study on the brevity of life.
Life is Like a Vapor Bible study on the brevity of life. In my last article we noticed that James compared ...
www.biblestudyguide.org/articles/personal-reflection/life-vapor.htm
9. The Brevity of Life - Page 1
In this world, nothing is certain, except death and taxes, wrote Ben Franklin in 1789. During the next 100 years, Mark Twain popularized those words through his own writing.
brevityoflife.org/html/bl_text.htm
Book References:
1. Jay E.Adams, ‘The Christian Counselor’s Manual, ‘The Practice of Nouthetic Counseling’ (Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1973)
2. John G. Kruis, ‘Quick Scripture Reference for Counseling; (Grand rapids: Baker Books, Third edition, p. 169-170)
3. David G. Benner & Peter C. Hill, ‘Baker Encyclopaedia of Psychology & Counseling’ Second Edition, (Grand Rapids: Baker Books, 1985, 1999)
4. Dr. Larry Crabb, “Effective Biblical Counseling” How Caring Christians can Become Capable Counselors, (Hammersmith: Marshall Pickering, 1985), p. 100-104).
5.The Matthew Henry Study Bible, ‘King James version’ The best of Matthew Henry’s Notes in a Handy One Volume Reference Bible, World Bible Publishers, Inc; 1994, Iowa Falls, U.S.A.
6. David Seeking A Heart Like His, ‘Beth Moore’ Life Way Christian resources, Nashville, Tennessee, 2010, pgs: 206-210.
7. Jay E. Adams, ‘Critical Stages of Biblical Counseling’ Finishing Well, Breaking Through, Getting Started, (New Jersey: Zondervan, 2002)
8. Jay E. Adams, ‘How to Help People Change’ The Four-step Biblical Process, (Grand rapids: Zondervan, 1986)
9. John F. MacArthur, JR. Wayne A. Mack & The Master’s College Faculty, ‘Introduction To Biblical Counseling’, “A Basic Guide To The Principles And Practice Of Counseling”(Nashville: Thomas Nelson Publishers,1994)
10. Jay E. Adams, ‘Lectures on Counseling’ (Grand Rapids: Baker Book House, 1978, p.192-203)
11. The Holy Bible, New King James version, Women of Destiny Bible, “Women Mentoring women Through the Scriptures” A Spirit Filled Life Bible, Thomas Nelson Publishers, Nashville, Tennessee, Copyright 1982.
Man in his prime indeed flourishes, but only as a grass and he does wither away, and all his glory is like the flowers in the field. This should make any one to immediately recognize God’s absolute sovereign dominion over man and His absolute power to dispose of man as He pleases.
In Psalm 39, King David was contemplating on the brevity of life, and says that our life time is nothing compared to eternity and eternal God. King David realized greatly the insignificance of our lives in the greater schemes of this world.
“As for man, his days are as grass: as a flower of the field, so he flourishes. But the wind passeth over it, and it is gone; and the place thereof shall know it no more.”Psa 103: 15-16.
“Whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapour that appeareth for a little time, and then vanishes away.” Jam 4:14.
“How can one meditate on live without meditating too on its brevity, its precariousness, its fragility”? Andre Comte-Sponville, French philosopher, The Little Book of Philosophy. Meditating in life is to meditate in its brevity. The brevity of life is one of the more common themes of human existential thought. There is authentic poetry in many ancient reflexions on this brevity, and the inevitability of death and nothingness.
Comparisons:
II Samuel 14:14 - Like water spilt on the ground
I Chronicles 29:15 - Like a shadow, it will not stay
Job 7:6-7 - Like a weaver's shuttle, or the wind
Job 9:25-26 - Like a swift messenger, a swift ship, or a swooping eagle
Job 14:1 - Few days, like a flower
Psalms 78:39 - Like a wind
Psalms 90:9 - Like a sigh
Psalms 103:15-16 - Like grass, leaving no memory
James 4:14 - Like a mist or the vapor from a pot
The Need to Remember How Short Life Is:
Psalms 90:12- Causes us to act more wisely: “So teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom.” We ask the Lord to give us grace to fully understand and consider how few are our number of days in this planet earth and how little more we have to live in this world. Based on this we have to live our life with double intelligence, and live carefully as if there is no more time left in this earth for us. We can ask for Divine instruction and help so that we can live our life in full for God’s glory.
Ecclesiastes 7:2-4 - Gives us a more balanced view of life: “It is better to go to the house of mourning, than to go to the house of feasting: for that is the end of all men; and the living will lay it to his heart. Sorrow is better than laughter: for by the sadness of the countenance the heart is made better. The heart of the wise is in the house of mourning; but the heart of fools is in the house of mirth.” From the above God’s Word we understand that the house of mourning is the wise man’s school, where he is serious, and learns a lot of lessons, and his heart is there to improve the spectacles of mortality that are presented to him. God’s Word also stresses the fact that the character of a fool is that his heart wants to be in the house of mirth to be merry and jovial. He takes delight in sport, gaiety, merry making, merry songs, and merry days, merry nights and wants to be in the company of merry making people. Very often sadness is a happy means of seriousness which is better for our souls and a wise man learns from it.
We need to understand the measure of our days and see how fleeting our lives are. We have so much undone and unsaid, and we have to appreciate each passing moment and not simply assume tomorrow will be available to us. We have to learn quickly from other people’s mistakes who agonize that they do not have more time to spend with their family members and do not have enough time to say and do the final things they would want to do if they were given some more time in this planet earth. Above all we have to learn the value of serving our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ today because we may not have tomorrow to get our lives right with God.
Making the most of every opportunity is wise; “redeem the time because the days are evil.” Eph 5:16. Pursuit of the things of this world is vanity and we have to pursue the most important: which is our relationship with God, and our relationship with family members and other believers. We need to treat each other the way we would expect others to treat us, and we should not assume that time will be granted to us tomorrow with these people. Life is very fragile, and it should be handled with prayer with Divine help, so that we can maximize our time and not regret the life we lived!
Web References:
1. Life is Short: The Brevity of Life
The Brevity and fragility of Life . As for man, his days are as grass: as a flower of the field, so he flourishes. But the wind passes over, and soon all disappears; and his ...
www.meaningsoflife.com/Life-is-short.htm
2. Brevity of Life
Brevity of Life Comparisons. II Samuel 14:14 - Like water spilt on the ground; I Chronicles 29:15 - Like a shadow, it will not stay; Job 7:6-7 - Like a weaver's shuttle, or the ...
www.lavistachurchofchrist.org/LVIndex/brevity.htm
3. The Brevity of Life Lessons For Daily Living Christian Monthly ...
As humans, we do not like to think about our own immortality. We are not interesting in speaking in terms of there not being a tomorrow. Rather, we speak as if
www.christianmonthlystandard.com/index.php/the-brevity-of-life
4. Psalm 39, The Brevity of Life West Palm Beach church of Christ
Introduction: Psalm 39 is another psalm of David. However, the superscription of the psalm tells us that this psalm is to Jeduthun. We can read a little
westpalmbeachchurchofchrist.com/old-testament/psalms/psalm_39.html
5."The Brevity of Life" : Articles : HEARTLIGHT® Magazine
How can we discern the time we have and number our days in a proper manner -- we cannot unless we look to the Lord for his help, his presence, and his guidance.
www.heartlight.org/articles/200710/20071014_brevity.html
6. Brevity of Life: Scripture and Commentary
Scripture and commentary on the brevity of life. ... 2 Samuel 14:14 14 For we must needs die, and are as water spilt on the ground, which cannot be gathered up again; neither ...
www.scriptureandmusic.com/Topics/Text_Files/Life_Brevity.html
7. Brevity Quotes Brevity Sayings Love Quotes and Sayings
Here are some brevity quotes and sayings that might inspire you to start being more brief and get to the point soon, without having to beat around the bush much
www.soundoflife.net/brevity-quotes
8. Life is Like a Vapor. Bible study on the brevity of life.
Life is Like a Vapor Bible study on the brevity of life. In my last article we noticed that James compared ...
www.biblestudyguide.org/articles/personal-reflection/life-vapor.htm
9. The Brevity of Life - Page 1
In this world, nothing is certain, except death and taxes, wrote Ben Franklin in 1789. During the next 100 years, Mark Twain popularized those words through his own writing.
brevityoflife.org/html/bl_text.htm
Book References:
1. Jay E.Adams, ‘The Christian Counselor’s Manual, ‘The Practice of Nouthetic Counseling’ (Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1973)
2. John G. Kruis, ‘Quick Scripture Reference for Counseling; (Grand rapids: Baker Books, Third edition, p. 169-170)
3. David G. Benner & Peter C. Hill, ‘Baker Encyclopaedia of Psychology & Counseling’ Second Edition, (Grand Rapids: Baker Books, 1985, 1999)
4. Dr. Larry Crabb, “Effective Biblical Counseling” How Caring Christians can Become Capable Counselors, (Hammersmith: Marshall Pickering, 1985), p. 100-104).
5.The Matthew Henry Study Bible, ‘King James version’ The best of Matthew Henry’s Notes in a Handy One Volume Reference Bible, World Bible Publishers, Inc; 1994, Iowa Falls, U.S.A.
6. David Seeking A Heart Like His, ‘Beth Moore’ Life Way Christian resources, Nashville, Tennessee, 2010, pgs: 206-210.
7. Jay E. Adams, ‘Critical Stages of Biblical Counseling’ Finishing Well, Breaking Through, Getting Started, (New Jersey: Zondervan, 2002)
8. Jay E. Adams, ‘How to Help People Change’ The Four-step Biblical Process, (Grand rapids: Zondervan, 1986)
9. John F. MacArthur, JR. Wayne A. Mack & The Master’s College Faculty, ‘Introduction To Biblical Counseling’, “A Basic Guide To The Principles And Practice Of Counseling”(Nashville: Thomas Nelson Publishers,1994)
10. Jay E. Adams, ‘Lectures on Counseling’ (Grand Rapids: Baker Book House, 1978, p.192-203)
11. The Holy Bible, New King James version, Women of Destiny Bible, “Women Mentoring women Through the Scriptures” A Spirit Filled Life Bible, Thomas Nelson Publishers, Nashville, Tennessee, Copyright 1982.
Tuesday, December 27, 2011
Contend earnestly for the Faith
In today’s world a genuine Christian has to genuinely contend for the faith, in opposition to those who would corrupt or deprave it. The more busy the instruments and agents of Satan work to destroy the faith of a believer and rob the person of ‘Truth’ one is called to earnestly contend and hold it fast.
Book of Jude was written to a group of believers at that time who were very dear to him and were led astray by false teachers. The same theme we see it in 2nd Peter where the great Pastoral concern and warning against false teachings and their influences on the lives of early Christians during the time period of Nero’s persecution of Christians at Rome.
The message of the Gospel which is the subject matter of Faith is a common, most sincere offer to all mankind and the benefit is for those who accept this gracious offer. One who receives this doctrine of common salvation should earnestly contend and strive lawfully. A believer can contend for faith as the early apostles did by suffering patiently, having a holy reverence for ‘God’s Truth’ and courageously living for Christ in the midst of trials and tribulations and persecutions.
Christianity and the people of God are always spoken evil of even from the past and God’s Word has ample examples to support this. So it should not surprise a genuine believer if they would go through a rough time because of their faith in work place or at home. In the time period when Jude wrote his letter there were deceivers who were seducing the Disciples of Christ from the profession and practice of their holy calling. Jude calls them as ‘filthy dreamers’ and they dream and live in all manner of sin which is filthiness. They defile the flesh and this greatly defiles and grievously maimed and wound the soul of a person which is very precious in the sight of God. God requires us not to speak evil of men Tit 3:2, and when it is pointed at people whom God has set in authority over us it is a great aggravation. If we analyze carefully, evil speakers despise the dominion of conscience, and make a jest of the whole authority over them. “Likewise also these filthy dreamers defile the flesh, despise dominion and speak evil of dignitaries.”Jude: 8.
Ungodly men are the enemies of God, and the enemies of the faith of Christ and the peace of the Church. Very often people speak evil of those persons and things that they know very little of. They are people who think and boast themselves as the wisest or as the wittiest part of man kind and Jude call them as ‘brute beasts.’ They not only corrupt themselves and defile themselves and but also they fail to realize that they have depraved wills, disordered appetites and affections. “But these speak evil of those things which they know not: but what they know naturally, as brute beasts, in those things they corrupt themselves.” Jude: 10. These are all people who separate themselves from God, Christ and His Church and associate with the Prince of the air, the world, the darkness, the flesh by their ungodly courses and bad practices. These are sensual people who do not have the Spirit of God, Spirit of Holiness, and absolutely no love for Christ and His dying love on the Cross for humanity.
We have to take the message of hope and encouragement and the privileges we have in Christ, and the holy lives we are called to live under persecution. This is a call and a warning for all genuine believers to build themselves in the sound foundation of faith with a sincere upright heart. A believer need not have to be offended if errors and persecutions arise and prevail in Christian Church, because it was foretold and this hastens the second coming of Jesus Christ. “But ye, beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost, keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life.” Jude: 20-22.
Finally dearly beloved believers in Christ, we are called to keep ourselves in the way of God and continue in His love. We have to do all that we can do to rescue others out of the snare of the world that they may be saved from errors and dangerous practices. “And some have compassion, making a difference; and others save with fear, pulling them out of the fire; hating even the garment spotted by the flesh.” Jude 22-23. Keeping ourselves at the utmost distance from what appears to be evil and not ‘The Truth’ is a warning and calling for all believers!
References:
1. Jay E.Adams, ‘The Christian Counselor’s Manual, ‘The Practice of Nouthetic Counseling’ (Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1973)
2. John G. Kruis, ‘Quick Scripture Reference for Counseling; (Grand rapids: Baker Books, Third edition, p. 169-170)
3. David G. Benner & Peter C. Hill, ‘Baker Encyclopaedia of Psychology & Counseling’ Second Edition, (Grand Rapids: Baker Books, 1985, 1999)
4. Dr. Larry Crabb, “Effective Biblical Counseling” How Caring Christians can Become Capable Counselors, (Hammersmith: Marshall Pickering, 1985), p. 100-104).
5.The Matthew Henry Study Bible, ‘King James version’ The best of Matthew Henry’s Notes in a Handy One Volume Reference Bible, World Bible Publishers, Inc; 1994, Iowa Falls, U.S.A.
6. David Seeking A Heart Like His, ‘Beth Moore’ Life Way Christian resources, Nashville, Tennessee, 2010, pgs: 206-210.
7. Jay E. Adams, ‘Critical Stages of Biblical Counseling’ Finishing Well, Breaking Through, Getting Started, (New Jersey: Zondervan, 2002)
8. Jay E. Adams, ‘How to Help People Change’ The Four-step Biblical Process, (Grand rapids: Zondervan, 1986)
9. John F. MacArthur, JR. Wayne A. Mack & The Master’s College Faculty, ‘Introduction To Biblical Counseling’, “A Basic Guide To The Principles And Practice Of Counseling”(Nashville: Thomas Nelson Publishers,1994)
10. Jay E. Adams, ‘Lectures on Counseling’ (Grand Rapids: Baker Book House, 1978, p.192-203)
11. The Holy Bible, New King James version, Women of Destiny Bible, “Women Mentoring women Through the Scriptures” A Spirit Filled Life Bible, Thomas Nelson Publishers, Nashville, Tennessee, Copyright 1982.
Book of Jude was written to a group of believers at that time who were very dear to him and were led astray by false teachers. The same theme we see it in 2nd Peter where the great Pastoral concern and warning against false teachings and their influences on the lives of early Christians during the time period of Nero’s persecution of Christians at Rome.
The message of the Gospel which is the subject matter of Faith is a common, most sincere offer to all mankind and the benefit is for those who accept this gracious offer. One who receives this doctrine of common salvation should earnestly contend and strive lawfully. A believer can contend for faith as the early apostles did by suffering patiently, having a holy reverence for ‘God’s Truth’ and courageously living for Christ in the midst of trials and tribulations and persecutions.
Christianity and the people of God are always spoken evil of even from the past and God’s Word has ample examples to support this. So it should not surprise a genuine believer if they would go through a rough time because of their faith in work place or at home. In the time period when Jude wrote his letter there were deceivers who were seducing the Disciples of Christ from the profession and practice of their holy calling. Jude calls them as ‘filthy dreamers’ and they dream and live in all manner of sin which is filthiness. They defile the flesh and this greatly defiles and grievously maimed and wound the soul of a person which is very precious in the sight of God. God requires us not to speak evil of men Tit 3:2, and when it is pointed at people whom God has set in authority over us it is a great aggravation. If we analyze carefully, evil speakers despise the dominion of conscience, and make a jest of the whole authority over them. “Likewise also these filthy dreamers defile the flesh, despise dominion and speak evil of dignitaries.”Jude: 8.
Ungodly men are the enemies of God, and the enemies of the faith of Christ and the peace of the Church. Very often people speak evil of those persons and things that they know very little of. They are people who think and boast themselves as the wisest or as the wittiest part of man kind and Jude call them as ‘brute beasts.’ They not only corrupt themselves and defile themselves and but also they fail to realize that they have depraved wills, disordered appetites and affections. “But these speak evil of those things which they know not: but what they know naturally, as brute beasts, in those things they corrupt themselves.” Jude: 10. These are all people who separate themselves from God, Christ and His Church and associate with the Prince of the air, the world, the darkness, the flesh by their ungodly courses and bad practices. These are sensual people who do not have the Spirit of God, Spirit of Holiness, and absolutely no love for Christ and His dying love on the Cross for humanity.
We have to take the message of hope and encouragement and the privileges we have in Christ, and the holy lives we are called to live under persecution. This is a call and a warning for all genuine believers to build themselves in the sound foundation of faith with a sincere upright heart. A believer need not have to be offended if errors and persecutions arise and prevail in Christian Church, because it was foretold and this hastens the second coming of Jesus Christ. “But ye, beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost, keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life.” Jude: 20-22.
Finally dearly beloved believers in Christ, we are called to keep ourselves in the way of God and continue in His love. We have to do all that we can do to rescue others out of the snare of the world that they may be saved from errors and dangerous practices. “And some have compassion, making a difference; and others save with fear, pulling them out of the fire; hating even the garment spotted by the flesh.” Jude 22-23. Keeping ourselves at the utmost distance from what appears to be evil and not ‘The Truth’ is a warning and calling for all believers!
References:
1. Jay E.Adams, ‘The Christian Counselor’s Manual, ‘The Practice of Nouthetic Counseling’ (Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1973)
2. John G. Kruis, ‘Quick Scripture Reference for Counseling; (Grand rapids: Baker Books, Third edition, p. 169-170)
3. David G. Benner & Peter C. Hill, ‘Baker Encyclopaedia of Psychology & Counseling’ Second Edition, (Grand Rapids: Baker Books, 1985, 1999)
4. Dr. Larry Crabb, “Effective Biblical Counseling” How Caring Christians can Become Capable Counselors, (Hammersmith: Marshall Pickering, 1985), p. 100-104).
5.The Matthew Henry Study Bible, ‘King James version’ The best of Matthew Henry’s Notes in a Handy One Volume Reference Bible, World Bible Publishers, Inc; 1994, Iowa Falls, U.S.A.
6. David Seeking A Heart Like His, ‘Beth Moore’ Life Way Christian resources, Nashville, Tennessee, 2010, pgs: 206-210.
7. Jay E. Adams, ‘Critical Stages of Biblical Counseling’ Finishing Well, Breaking Through, Getting Started, (New Jersey: Zondervan, 2002)
8. Jay E. Adams, ‘How to Help People Change’ The Four-step Biblical Process, (Grand rapids: Zondervan, 1986)
9. John F. MacArthur, JR. Wayne A. Mack & The Master’s College Faculty, ‘Introduction To Biblical Counseling’, “A Basic Guide To The Principles And Practice Of Counseling”(Nashville: Thomas Nelson Publishers,1994)
10. Jay E. Adams, ‘Lectures on Counseling’ (Grand Rapids: Baker Book House, 1978, p.192-203)
11. The Holy Bible, New King James version, Women of Destiny Bible, “Women Mentoring women Through the Scriptures” A Spirit Filled Life Bible, Thomas Nelson Publishers, Nashville, Tennessee, Copyright 1982.
Monday, December 26, 2011
Good conscience & Good conversation
In this world of fear, guilt, shame, anxiety, loss of peace and joy and turmoil where is peace, comfort and joy for the inner man in this part of eternity? Let us stop and think for a minute to look well to into our conscience and conversation!
“Having a good conscience, that whereas they speak evil of you, as of evil doers, they may be ashamed that falsely accuse your good conversation in Christ. For it is better, if the will of God be so, that ye suffer for well doing, than for evil doing.”1 Pet 3: 16-17. Conscience is a God given gift to man, and conscience is good when it is kept pure, incorrupt, and clear from guilt.
“For in many things we offend all. If any man offend not in word, the same is the perfect man, and able also to bridle the whole body.” Jam 3:2. We offend because we are all sinners. The Word of God teaches us to govern our tongues, so we will be perfect men and women of God, and we will have an entire government over ourselves. The one who offends not in word not only prove to be a sincere Christian, but also as a matured, advanced Christian. One needs tremendous grace and wisdom from God to rule the tongue and this will enable the person to rule the actions that follow.
It is sad and absurd to know that those who use their tongues in prayer and praise would use their tongue for cursing, slandering. The tongue which addresses the Divine Being with reverence can become inconsistent and turn on the creatures with reviling, brawling language! “Therewith bless we God, even the Father; and therewith cures we men, which are made after the similitude of God. Out of the same mouth proceedeth blessing and cursing. My brethren, these things ought not to be so.” Jam 3: 9-10. A good conversation in Christ is a holy calling and life according to the Word of God and the doctrine and the living example of Christ.
Genuine Christians are very often placed in environment where men speak evil of them and falsely accused as evil-doers. Very often statistics show that the most conscientious persons are faced with slanders and censures of evil men, and charged with crimes which their very souls abhor. The life of Jesus Christ and His disciples are a good illustration for this and the example of Christ is proposed as an argument for patience under sufferings. If we have a good conscience and conversation toward God and men we can clear ourselves and shame will be to the accusers.
We may even think it is hard to suffer for well-doing, for keeping a good conscience and a good conversation. One can take encouragement on the Word of God that it is sometimes the will of God that good people should suffer for well-doing, for their honesty and genuine faith in the knowledge and love of God in Jesus Christ. Let us focus on the main thing that is the blessed end of Jesus Christ’s suffering brought humanity to God; and it is to our blessedness that when we submit to our difficulties they are of so much use to quicken our conscience in our return to God and in our worship of Him. What a great unfathomable design for humanity in God’s great love for mankind?
I can not even imagine the intensity of the sufferings of wicked people for evil doing because the sufferings of good people for well-doing is so severe in many cases. The root issues in all this is SIN, and this makes the sufferings to be extreme, unprofitable, comfortless and destructive. It is extremely a sad condition upon whom the sin and suffering meet together to steal abundant life of peace and joy.
We have many stories in the Bible which exposes the evil men eventually. The Word of God warns us not to return evil for evil because it is a sinful unchristian practice; 1 Pet 3:9. False accusation mostly turns to the accuser’s shame by exposing the accuser’s indiscretion, injustice, falsehood, and uncharitableness. A good conscience and a good conversation are the best way to secure a good name, and this gives a solid reputation which is a lasting one.
References:
1. Jay E.Adams, ‘The Christian Counselor’s Manual, ‘The Practice of Nouthetic Counseling’ (Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1973)
2. John G. Kruis, ‘Quick Scripture Reference for Counseling; (Grand rapids: Baker Books, Third edition, p. 169-170)
3. David G. Benner & Peter C. Hill, ‘Baker Encyclopaedia of Psychology & Counseling’ Second Edition, (Grand Rapids: Baker Books, 1985, 1999)
4. Dr. Larry Crabb, “Effective Biblical Counseling” How Caring Christians can Become Capable Counselors, (Hammersmith: Marshall Pickering, 1985), p. 100-104).
5.The Matthew Henry Study Bible, ‘King James version’ The best of Matthew Henry’s Notes in a Handy One Volume Reference Bible, World Bible Publishers, Inc; 1994, Iowa Falls, U.S.A.
6. David Seeking A Heart Like His, ‘Beth Moore’ Life Way Christian resources, Nashville, Tennessee, 2010, pgs: 206-210.
7. Jay E. Adams, ‘Critical Stages of Biblical Counseling’ Finishing Well, Breaking Through, Getting Started, (New Jersey: Zondervan, 2002)
8. Jay E. Adams, ‘How to Help People Change’ The Four-step Biblical Process, (Grand rapids: Zondervan, 1986)
9. John F. MacArthur, JR. Wayne A. Mack & The Master’s College Faculty, ‘Introduction To Biblical Counseling’, “A Basic Guide To The Principles And Practice Of Counseling”(Nashville: Thomas Nelson Publishers,1994)
10. Jay E. Adams, ‘Lectures on Counseling’ (Grand Rapids: Baker Book House, 1978, p.192-203)
11. The Holy Bible, New King James version, Women of Destiny Bible, “Women Mentoring women Through the Scriptures” A Spirit Filled Life Bible, Thomas Nelson Publishers, Nashville, Tennessee, Copyright 1982.
“Having a good conscience, that whereas they speak evil of you, as of evil doers, they may be ashamed that falsely accuse your good conversation in Christ. For it is better, if the will of God be so, that ye suffer for well doing, than for evil doing.”1 Pet 3: 16-17. Conscience is a God given gift to man, and conscience is good when it is kept pure, incorrupt, and clear from guilt.
“For in many things we offend all. If any man offend not in word, the same is the perfect man, and able also to bridle the whole body.” Jam 3:2. We offend because we are all sinners. The Word of God teaches us to govern our tongues, so we will be perfect men and women of God, and we will have an entire government over ourselves. The one who offends not in word not only prove to be a sincere Christian, but also as a matured, advanced Christian. One needs tremendous grace and wisdom from God to rule the tongue and this will enable the person to rule the actions that follow.
It is sad and absurd to know that those who use their tongues in prayer and praise would use their tongue for cursing, slandering. The tongue which addresses the Divine Being with reverence can become inconsistent and turn on the creatures with reviling, brawling language! “Therewith bless we God, even the Father; and therewith cures we men, which are made after the similitude of God. Out of the same mouth proceedeth blessing and cursing. My brethren, these things ought not to be so.” Jam 3: 9-10. A good conversation in Christ is a holy calling and life according to the Word of God and the doctrine and the living example of Christ.
Genuine Christians are very often placed in environment where men speak evil of them and falsely accused as evil-doers. Very often statistics show that the most conscientious persons are faced with slanders and censures of evil men, and charged with crimes which their very souls abhor. The life of Jesus Christ and His disciples are a good illustration for this and the example of Christ is proposed as an argument for patience under sufferings. If we have a good conscience and conversation toward God and men we can clear ourselves and shame will be to the accusers.
We may even think it is hard to suffer for well-doing, for keeping a good conscience and a good conversation. One can take encouragement on the Word of God that it is sometimes the will of God that good people should suffer for well-doing, for their honesty and genuine faith in the knowledge and love of God in Jesus Christ. Let us focus on the main thing that is the blessed end of Jesus Christ’s suffering brought humanity to God; and it is to our blessedness that when we submit to our difficulties they are of so much use to quicken our conscience in our return to God and in our worship of Him. What a great unfathomable design for humanity in God’s great love for mankind?
I can not even imagine the intensity of the sufferings of wicked people for evil doing because the sufferings of good people for well-doing is so severe in many cases. The root issues in all this is SIN, and this makes the sufferings to be extreme, unprofitable, comfortless and destructive. It is extremely a sad condition upon whom the sin and suffering meet together to steal abundant life of peace and joy.
We have many stories in the Bible which exposes the evil men eventually. The Word of God warns us not to return evil for evil because it is a sinful unchristian practice; 1 Pet 3:9. False accusation mostly turns to the accuser’s shame by exposing the accuser’s indiscretion, injustice, falsehood, and uncharitableness. A good conscience and a good conversation are the best way to secure a good name, and this gives a solid reputation which is a lasting one.
References:
1. Jay E.Adams, ‘The Christian Counselor’s Manual, ‘The Practice of Nouthetic Counseling’ (Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1973)
2. John G. Kruis, ‘Quick Scripture Reference for Counseling; (Grand rapids: Baker Books, Third edition, p. 169-170)
3. David G. Benner & Peter C. Hill, ‘Baker Encyclopaedia of Psychology & Counseling’ Second Edition, (Grand Rapids: Baker Books, 1985, 1999)
4. Dr. Larry Crabb, “Effective Biblical Counseling” How Caring Christians can Become Capable Counselors, (Hammersmith: Marshall Pickering, 1985), p. 100-104).
5.The Matthew Henry Study Bible, ‘King James version’ The best of Matthew Henry’s Notes in a Handy One Volume Reference Bible, World Bible Publishers, Inc; 1994, Iowa Falls, U.S.A.
6. David Seeking A Heart Like His, ‘Beth Moore’ Life Way Christian resources, Nashville, Tennessee, 2010, pgs: 206-210.
7. Jay E. Adams, ‘Critical Stages of Biblical Counseling’ Finishing Well, Breaking Through, Getting Started, (New Jersey: Zondervan, 2002)
8. Jay E. Adams, ‘How to Help People Change’ The Four-step Biblical Process, (Grand rapids: Zondervan, 1986)
9. John F. MacArthur, JR. Wayne A. Mack & The Master’s College Faculty, ‘Introduction To Biblical Counseling’, “A Basic Guide To The Principles And Practice Of Counseling”(Nashville: Thomas Nelson Publishers,1994)
10. Jay E. Adams, ‘Lectures on Counseling’ (Grand Rapids: Baker Book House, 1978, p.192-203)
11. The Holy Bible, New King James version, Women of Destiny Bible, “Women Mentoring women Through the Scriptures” A Spirit Filled Life Bible, Thomas Nelson Publishers, Nashville, Tennessee, Copyright 1982.
Tuesday, September 20, 2011
Self-image & Self-esteem
Self image is how you see yourself. This may be how you see yourself physically or your opinion of who and what you are which is normally called self concept. It is important as it affects your self esteem and confidence.
Self Esteem is how you feel about yourself. Image is about how you see yourself and how you believe others see you. They are closely connected because if you have a poor opinion of yourself your self esteem will be low. Read about how to feel good about yourself here.
A person's self image is the mental picture, generally of a kind that is quite resistant to change, that depicts not only details that are potentially available to objective investigation by others (height, weight, hair color, sex, I.Q. score, etc.), but also items that have been learned by that person about himself or herself, either from personal experiences or by internalizing the judgments of others. A simple definition of a person's self image is their answer to this question - "What do you believe people think about you?" A more technical term for self image that is commonly used by social and cognitive psychologists is self-schema. Like any schema, self-schemas store information and influence the way we think and remember. For example, research indicates that information which refers to the self is preferentially encoded and recalled in memory tests, a phenomenon known as "Self-Referential Encoding" (Rogers et al. 1977). As it is a relative objective measure, it is generally measured against crowd leaders, such as celebrities [1].
According to the self-image proponents: sexual promiscuity, suicide, crime, abortion, depression, poor mental health, stress, unhappiness, lack of success in life, the inability to love God and to accept His free gift of salvation, the inability to love others, and the inability to love self, are all the results of a poor self-image or low self-esteem. We are living in a world which always forces us to boost up our self image and self esteem in different ways.
List things you like about yourself - include appearance, personality and skills
Change negative thoughts to positive ones by focusing on the positive and forgetting the negative things that happen to you.
Remember compliments and note them down
Try the powerful method of self-hypnosis: Building your self esteem - self hypnosis download
It will really help you!
Take yourself less seriously and lighten up!
Accept criticism constructively so you can move forward and improve yourself
Don't be limited by your internal image, step outside of it and break free, it doesn't have to control you or keep you down. Acting differently will change how others respond towards you and will help change your attitude towards yourself and your abilities.
The above is in total opposition to what the Scripture teaches us. The fact is that the self-image movement is neither Biblical nor scientific. It is a fad that will eventually pass away after doing incredible damage in our society and unfortunately in all too many churches. By God’s grace and the truth of His Word, believers need not be taken in by Satan’s lies. We can choose to live by the infallible, never changing Word of God! The basic teaching in Pop-Psychology today is that people in general have a low self-image, self-esteem, self-worth, self-love, etc.
The power of the human mind to deceive itself seems infinite. We need to pray "Search me, O God, and know my heart: Try me and know my anxious thoughts; And see if there be any hurtful way in me, And lead me in the everlasting way" Psalms 139:23,24 often! One study of two-hundred criminals revealed that not one of those criminals believed he was evil. Each criminal thought of himself as basically a good person even when planning a crime (The Washington Star, Aug. 15, 1976).
2 Tim. 3:16, 17 and 2 Pet. 1:3 explains that God’s Word is sufficient to equip us to be godly people, and that everything concerning life and godliness is found in His Word. This being the case, we must ask the question: "Why is there no mention of self-esteem in all of the Scriptures? The answer to that question surely lies in the fact that our relationship with God is not based on our righteousness or our worth to Him, but upon His grace Titus 3:4-7. Rather, we are sinners who can do nothing to impress or please God; Rom. 3:23; 5:6-8.
God’s view of our worth (self-image): “For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life” Jn: 3:16. Job had struggle with his self-worth Job: 9:21. We find our significance not in ourselves, but in our relationship to God; Jm: 4:10; Mich: 6:8.
Knowing God is what makes life meaningful. Eph: 1:17-19; “… may give the spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know Him better…..” We are not to fall into a trap of relying on self; 2 Cori: 1:8-9; “……we might not rely on ourselves but on God, who raises the dead.” We should not allow pride to enter into a view of self; Psa: 10:4; Isa: 2:11-12. “We do not classify or compare ourselves with some who commend themselves. When they measure themselves by themselves and compare themselves with themselves, they are not wise;” 2 Cori: 10:12. Our self image and self worth has to come from the Lord who made us and fashioned us individually, and gave us His breath.
Websites:
1. en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Self_image, Wikipedia, the free encyclopaedia: “Self image” (accessed 3 May 2010)
2. en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Self-esteem ,Wikipedia, the free encyclopaedia: “Self-esteem” (accessed 3 May 2010)
3. www.more-selfesteem.com › Self Esteem “Self Image and Esteem” (accessed 3 May 2010)
4.The Biblical View of Self-Imagewww.svchapel.org/resources/.../573-the-biblical-view-of-self-image - Cached
We can choose to live by the infallible, never changing Word of God! Few would ... The UnBiblical View of Self-Image, Self-Worth, Self-Esteem and Self-Love ...
5.Self-esteem - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Self-esteem - Cached
Synonyms or near-synonyms of self-esteem include: self-worth, self-regard, self- respect, ... To have a high self-esteem is to feel confidently capable for life, or, ...
References:
1. Jay E.Adams, ‘The Christian Counselor’s Manual, ‘The Practice of Nouthetic Counseling’ (Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1973, p.144-145; 211)
2. John G. Kruis, ‘Quick Scripture Reference for Counseling; (Grand rapids: Baker Books, Third edition, p. 169-170)
3. David G. Benner & Peter C. Hill, ‘Baker Encyclopaedia of Psychology & Counseling’ Second Edition, (Grand Rapids: Baker Books, 1985, 1999, p.1084-1085)
4. Dr. Larry Crabb, “Effective Biblical Counseling” How Caring Christians can Become Capable Counselors, (Hammersmith: Marshall Pickering, 1985, p. 100-104).
5.The Matthew Henry Study Bible, ‘King James version’ The best of Matthew Henry’s Notes in a Handy One Volume Reference Bible, World Bible Publishers, Inc; 1994, Iowa Falls, U.S.A.
6. David Seeking A Heart Like His, ‘Beth Moore’ Life Way Christian resources, Nashville, Tennessee, 2010, pgs: 206-210.
7. Jay E. Adams, ‘Critical Stages of Biblical Counseling’ Finishing Well, Breaking Through, Getting Started, (New Jersey: Zondervan, 2002, p.6-7)
8. Jay E. Adams, ‘How to Help People Change’ The Four-step Biblical Process, (Grand rapids: Zondervan, 1986, p. 20-28)
9. John F. MacArthur, JR. Wayne A. Mack & The Master’s College Faculty, ‘Introduction To Biblical Counseling’, “A Basic Guide To The Principles And Practice Of Counseling”(Nashville: Thomas Nelson Publishers,1994, P. 76-77)
10. Jay E. Adams, ‘Lectures on Counseling’ (Grand Rapids: Baker Book House, 1978, p.192-203)
11. The Holy Bible, New King James version, Women of Destiny Bible, “Women Mentoring women Through the Scriptures” A Spirit Filled Life Bible, Thomas Nelson Publishers, Nashville, Tennessee, Copyright 1982.
Self Esteem is how you feel about yourself. Image is about how you see yourself and how you believe others see you. They are closely connected because if you have a poor opinion of yourself your self esteem will be low. Read about how to feel good about yourself here.
A person's self image is the mental picture, generally of a kind that is quite resistant to change, that depicts not only details that are potentially available to objective investigation by others (height, weight, hair color, sex, I.Q. score, etc.), but also items that have been learned by that person about himself or herself, either from personal experiences or by internalizing the judgments of others. A simple definition of a person's self image is their answer to this question - "What do you believe people think about you?" A more technical term for self image that is commonly used by social and cognitive psychologists is self-schema. Like any schema, self-schemas store information and influence the way we think and remember. For example, research indicates that information which refers to the self is preferentially encoded and recalled in memory tests, a phenomenon known as "Self-Referential Encoding" (Rogers et al. 1977). As it is a relative objective measure, it is generally measured against crowd leaders, such as celebrities [1].
According to the self-image proponents: sexual promiscuity, suicide, crime, abortion, depression, poor mental health, stress, unhappiness, lack of success in life, the inability to love God and to accept His free gift of salvation, the inability to love others, and the inability to love self, are all the results of a poor self-image or low self-esteem. We are living in a world which always forces us to boost up our self image and self esteem in different ways.
List things you like about yourself - include appearance, personality and skills
Change negative thoughts to positive ones by focusing on the positive and forgetting the negative things that happen to you.
Remember compliments and note them down
Try the powerful method of self-hypnosis: Building your self esteem - self hypnosis download
It will really help you!
Take yourself less seriously and lighten up!
Accept criticism constructively so you can move forward and improve yourself
Don't be limited by your internal image, step outside of it and break free, it doesn't have to control you or keep you down. Acting differently will change how others respond towards you and will help change your attitude towards yourself and your abilities.
The above is in total opposition to what the Scripture teaches us. The fact is that the self-image movement is neither Biblical nor scientific. It is a fad that will eventually pass away after doing incredible damage in our society and unfortunately in all too many churches. By God’s grace and the truth of His Word, believers need not be taken in by Satan’s lies. We can choose to live by the infallible, never changing Word of God! The basic teaching in Pop-Psychology today is that people in general have a low self-image, self-esteem, self-worth, self-love, etc.
The power of the human mind to deceive itself seems infinite. We need to pray "Search me, O God, and know my heart: Try me and know my anxious thoughts; And see if there be any hurtful way in me, And lead me in the everlasting way" Psalms 139:23,24 often! One study of two-hundred criminals revealed that not one of those criminals believed he was evil. Each criminal thought of himself as basically a good person even when planning a crime (The Washington Star, Aug. 15, 1976).
2 Tim. 3:16, 17 and 2 Pet. 1:3 explains that God’s Word is sufficient to equip us to be godly people, and that everything concerning life and godliness is found in His Word. This being the case, we must ask the question: "Why is there no mention of self-esteem in all of the Scriptures? The answer to that question surely lies in the fact that our relationship with God is not based on our righteousness or our worth to Him, but upon His grace Titus 3:4-7. Rather, we are sinners who can do nothing to impress or please God; Rom. 3:23; 5:6-8.
God’s view of our worth (self-image): “For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life” Jn: 3:16. Job had struggle with his self-worth Job: 9:21. We find our significance not in ourselves, but in our relationship to God; Jm: 4:10; Mich: 6:8.
Knowing God is what makes life meaningful. Eph: 1:17-19; “… may give the spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know Him better…..” We are not to fall into a trap of relying on self; 2 Cori: 1:8-9; “……we might not rely on ourselves but on God, who raises the dead.” We should not allow pride to enter into a view of self; Psa: 10:4; Isa: 2:11-12. “We do not classify or compare ourselves with some who commend themselves. When they measure themselves by themselves and compare themselves with themselves, they are not wise;” 2 Cori: 10:12. Our self image and self worth has to come from the Lord who made us and fashioned us individually, and gave us His breath.
Websites:
1. en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Self_image, Wikipedia, the free encyclopaedia: “Self image” (accessed 3 May 2010)
2. en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Self-esteem ,Wikipedia, the free encyclopaedia: “Self-esteem” (accessed 3 May 2010)
3. www.more-selfesteem.com › Self Esteem “Self Image and Esteem” (accessed 3 May 2010)
4.The Biblical View of Self-Imagewww.svchapel.org/resources/.../573-the-biblical-view-of-self-image - Cached
We can choose to live by the infallible, never changing Word of God! Few would ... The UnBiblical View of Self-Image, Self-Worth, Self-Esteem and Self-Love ...
5.Self-esteem - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Self-esteem - Cached
Synonyms or near-synonyms of self-esteem include: self-worth, self-regard, self- respect, ... To have a high self-esteem is to feel confidently capable for life, or, ...
References:
1. Jay E.Adams, ‘The Christian Counselor’s Manual, ‘The Practice of Nouthetic Counseling’ (Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1973, p.144-145; 211)
2. John G. Kruis, ‘Quick Scripture Reference for Counseling; (Grand rapids: Baker Books, Third edition, p. 169-170)
3. David G. Benner & Peter C. Hill, ‘Baker Encyclopaedia of Psychology & Counseling’ Second Edition, (Grand Rapids: Baker Books, 1985, 1999, p.1084-1085)
4. Dr. Larry Crabb, “Effective Biblical Counseling” How Caring Christians can Become Capable Counselors, (Hammersmith: Marshall Pickering, 1985, p. 100-104).
5.The Matthew Henry Study Bible, ‘King James version’ The best of Matthew Henry’s Notes in a Handy One Volume Reference Bible, World Bible Publishers, Inc; 1994, Iowa Falls, U.S.A.
6. David Seeking A Heart Like His, ‘Beth Moore’ Life Way Christian resources, Nashville, Tennessee, 2010, pgs: 206-210.
7. Jay E. Adams, ‘Critical Stages of Biblical Counseling’ Finishing Well, Breaking Through, Getting Started, (New Jersey: Zondervan, 2002, p.6-7)
8. Jay E. Adams, ‘How to Help People Change’ The Four-step Biblical Process, (Grand rapids: Zondervan, 1986, p. 20-28)
9. John F. MacArthur, JR. Wayne A. Mack & The Master’s College Faculty, ‘Introduction To Biblical Counseling’, “A Basic Guide To The Principles And Practice Of Counseling”(Nashville: Thomas Nelson Publishers,1994, P. 76-77)
10. Jay E. Adams, ‘Lectures on Counseling’ (Grand Rapids: Baker Book House, 1978, p.192-203)
11. The Holy Bible, New King James version, Women of Destiny Bible, “Women Mentoring women Through the Scriptures” A Spirit Filled Life Bible, Thomas Nelson Publishers, Nashville, Tennessee, Copyright 1982.
Tuesday, August 30, 2011
Truth vs. Pop Psychology
The importance of a good self-concept, self-identity, and self-esteem are wide spread today. Many people bring out various theories on the above without understanding the Biblical way of Christ. Every where we turn today even in Christian circles, we hear the need for self- esteem and ‘ego strength’. Self-help books, groups, publishers and even self-help for depression have become the back bone for our present ‘self-help culture’. Healing of the memories, visualization techniques, 12- step and other recovery programs, and self-image has become the way of life for common man and has become the thought pattern even among Christian circle.
What does the Bible talk about the above? The self-esteem issues that people have in today’s society are connected to the unhealthy expectations of other people. It is dangerous to be concerned with what others think of you, but if you trust the Lord, you are safe. (Proverbs 29:25). Your worth, (self-esteem) is not connected to your gross worth, to your successes, or to what any person may think of you. You are not defined by other people’s opinions, you are not defined by your job, and your self-esteem is not associated to your trophies or your accomplishments. When you have some understanding in your heart of what God thinks of you, how much He loves you, how precious you are in His sight, your self-esteem issues will change and you will never worry about another person’s opinion of you again. Then you will be made complete with all the fullness of life and power that comes from God. (Ephesians 3:18-19).
By building self-esteem through God's Word one will come to know who you are with confidence. No one will be able to shatter or break you again. “Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the Word of truth;" 11 Timothy 2:15. "And be renewed in the spirit of your mind: And that ye put on the "new man" which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness;" Ephesians 4:23-24.
You grow in Christ by changing your thoughts (Ephesians 4:23) with God's Word. As you act upon those thoughts you will be following Christ to receive your victory. So the process is easy by reading, meditating, and hearing God’s Word and acting upon it. Life is in God's Word which is in total contrast to Pop Psychology.
A Christian living as a carnal man is still living for himself, and will still evaluate the world from a false perspective. He will still behave selfishly, disobediently, and without compassion and it will be very easy for that person to psychologize God’s Word in order to worship ‘self’. He thinks, acts, feels and behaves like a un-believer and it is a tragedy!
Healing of the memories, visualization techniques, 12- step and other recovery programs, and self-image are the way of the world and is fatal and no amount of funding or strategic planning will change the destructive end toward which it plunges. Any one who psychologizes the Scriptures invariably finds themselves getting nowhere. Bible says in the last days even the elect will be deceived. Let us not be content to be an immature Christian, as was the case with many Hebrew believers! Heb: 5:11- 6:4. Abundant life is with God the Father, through Lord Jesus Christ because He is the way the truth and the life. Only His Spirit will be able to guide and lead us in this path of Truth without getting deceived.
References:
1. Dr. Larry Crabb, “Effective Biblical Counseling” How Caring Christians can Become Capable Counselors, (Hammersmith: Marshall Pickering, 1985, p. 100-104).
2. John G. Kruis, Quick Scripture Reference for Counseling, ‘Progressive Sanctification’ ( Grand rapids: Baker Books, 1988, 1994, 2000 p. 140-145)
3..The Matthew Henry Study Bible, ‘King James version’ The best of Matthew Henry’s Notes in a Handy One Volume Reference Bible, World Bible Publishers, Inc; 1994, Iowa Falls, U.S.A.
4. David Seeking A Heart Like His, ‘Beth Moore’ Life Way Christian resources, Nashville, Tennessee, 2010, pgs: 206-210.
5. Jay E. Adams, ‘Critical Stages of Biblical Counseling’ Finishing Well, Breaking Through, Getting Started, (New Jersey: Zondervan, 2002, p.6-7)
6. Jay E. Adams, ‘How to Help People Change’ The Four-step Biblical Process, (Grand rapids: Zondervan, 1986, p. 20-28)
7. John F. MacArthur, JR. Wayne A. Mack & The Master’s College Faculty, ‘Introduction To Biblical Counseling’, “A Basic Guide To The Principles And Practice Of Counseling”(Nashville: Thomas Nelson Publishers,1994, P. 76-77)
8. Jay E. Adams, ‘The Christian Counselor’s Manual, The Practice of Nouthetic Counseling’ (Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1973, p. 15-16, 21-23; 92-97)
9. Jay E. Adams, ‘Lectures on Counseling’ (Grand Rapids: Baker Book House, 1978, p.192-203)
10. The Holy Bible, New King James version, Women of Destiny Bible, “Women Mentoring women Through the Scriptures” A Spirit Filled Life Bible, Thomas Nelson Publishers, Nashville, Tennessee, Copyright 1982.
What does the Bible talk about the above? The self-esteem issues that people have in today’s society are connected to the unhealthy expectations of other people. It is dangerous to be concerned with what others think of you, but if you trust the Lord, you are safe. (Proverbs 29:25). Your worth, (self-esteem) is not connected to your gross worth, to your successes, or to what any person may think of you. You are not defined by other people’s opinions, you are not defined by your job, and your self-esteem is not associated to your trophies or your accomplishments. When you have some understanding in your heart of what God thinks of you, how much He loves you, how precious you are in His sight, your self-esteem issues will change and you will never worry about another person’s opinion of you again. Then you will be made complete with all the fullness of life and power that comes from God. (Ephesians 3:18-19).
By building self-esteem through God's Word one will come to know who you are with confidence. No one will be able to shatter or break you again. “Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the Word of truth;" 11 Timothy 2:15. "And be renewed in the spirit of your mind: And that ye put on the "new man" which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness;" Ephesians 4:23-24.
You grow in Christ by changing your thoughts (Ephesians 4:23) with God's Word. As you act upon those thoughts you will be following Christ to receive your victory. So the process is easy by reading, meditating, and hearing God’s Word and acting upon it. Life is in God's Word which is in total contrast to Pop Psychology.
A Christian living as a carnal man is still living for himself, and will still evaluate the world from a false perspective. He will still behave selfishly, disobediently, and without compassion and it will be very easy for that person to psychologize God’s Word in order to worship ‘self’. He thinks, acts, feels and behaves like a un-believer and it is a tragedy!
Healing of the memories, visualization techniques, 12- step and other recovery programs, and self-image are the way of the world and is fatal and no amount of funding or strategic planning will change the destructive end toward which it plunges. Any one who psychologizes the Scriptures invariably finds themselves getting nowhere. Bible says in the last days even the elect will be deceived. Let us not be content to be an immature Christian, as was the case with many Hebrew believers! Heb: 5:11- 6:4. Abundant life is with God the Father, through Lord Jesus Christ because He is the way the truth and the life. Only His Spirit will be able to guide and lead us in this path of Truth without getting deceived.
References:
1. Dr. Larry Crabb, “Effective Biblical Counseling” How Caring Christians can Become Capable Counselors, (Hammersmith: Marshall Pickering, 1985, p. 100-104).
2. John G. Kruis, Quick Scripture Reference for Counseling, ‘Progressive Sanctification’ ( Grand rapids: Baker Books, 1988, 1994, 2000 p. 140-145)
3..The Matthew Henry Study Bible, ‘King James version’ The best of Matthew Henry’s Notes in a Handy One Volume Reference Bible, World Bible Publishers, Inc; 1994, Iowa Falls, U.S.A.
4. David Seeking A Heart Like His, ‘Beth Moore’ Life Way Christian resources, Nashville, Tennessee, 2010, pgs: 206-210.
5. Jay E. Adams, ‘Critical Stages of Biblical Counseling’ Finishing Well, Breaking Through, Getting Started, (New Jersey: Zondervan, 2002, p.6-7)
6. Jay E. Adams, ‘How to Help People Change’ The Four-step Biblical Process, (Grand rapids: Zondervan, 1986, p. 20-28)
7. John F. MacArthur, JR. Wayne A. Mack & The Master’s College Faculty, ‘Introduction To Biblical Counseling’, “A Basic Guide To The Principles And Practice Of Counseling”(Nashville: Thomas Nelson Publishers,1994, P. 76-77)
8. Jay E. Adams, ‘The Christian Counselor’s Manual, The Practice of Nouthetic Counseling’ (Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1973, p. 15-16, 21-23; 92-97)
9. Jay E. Adams, ‘Lectures on Counseling’ (Grand Rapids: Baker Book House, 1978, p.192-203)
10. The Holy Bible, New King James version, Women of Destiny Bible, “Women Mentoring women Through the Scriptures” A Spirit Filled Life Bible, Thomas Nelson Publishers, Nashville, Tennessee, Copyright 1982.
Saturday, August 20, 2011
Forgiveness
What is forgiveness? Forgiveness means not to dwell on the sin that was forgiven to the offender. It is a promise not to raise the issue again to the offender, or to others or himself or herself. Even ‘brooding on the issue’ is a violation of the promise made in granting forgiveness to the offender.
A definition for forgiveness could be -- giving up my right to hurt you, for hurting me. It is impossible to live on this fallen planet without getting hurt, offended, misunderstood, lied to, and rejected. Learning how to respond properly is one of the basics of the Christian life.1
The word “forgive” means to wipe the slate clean, to pardon, to
cancel a debt. When we wrong someone, we seek his or her forgiveness in order
for the relationship to be restored. It is important to remember that
forgiveness is not granted because a person deserves to be forgiven. Instead,
it is an act of love, mercy, and grace.2
Reconciliation is a complete change of relationships between persons; God and man;
and man, and man and this involves three basic elements.
a.) Confessing our sins to God, and to any
other offended party;
b.) Forgiveness by God and by the offended
party;
c.) Establishing a new relationship
between God and the offender; and the offender and the offended party.
Confession, forgiveness, and
reconciliation are very much related and in reconciliation, the enmity and
alienation are replaced by peace and fellowship.
God’s Mercy: “And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.” Jesus Christ taught His disciples the Lord’s Prayer for forgiveness, and we stand before God’s mercy and grace every day for the sins of commission and omission.
(Debt vs. Trespasses) Several Greek words are used to describe sin, and the Gospel of Matthew uses the word, ophelema, which is rendered ‘debt’ Matt 6:12; and paraptoma, which is rendered ‘trespass’ in Matt 6:14. God will forgive us only as much as we forgive those who have injured us, and in the Lord’s Prayer we ask God to be merciful and forgive our sins. “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness” (1 Jn 1:9).
Praying for forgiveness requires listening quietly in God’s presence so that He may reveal to us our own acts of disobedience, our resentments, and our unresolved issues in our hearts and even with our neighbors. As Christians we inevitably continue to sin, but our lives need to be characterized by a reducing frequency of sin with an increasing sensitivity to sin.
When God forgives a sinner, He marks a new beginning, and the old has gone. He wanted that the matters which the repentance concerned must be cleared up, and bear fruit which is appropriate to true repentance. This leads to change in relationships, which leads to the abandonment of old ways (putting off) and the establishment of new ways (putting on).
In some difficult cases, for example if the offended party refuses to give forgiveness, then the Scriptures in Matthew 18, comes into effect. The first step is the repentant party approaches the person regarding the issue and if that fails, he takes one or two witnesses. Jesus Christ makes the forgiveness of the repentant brother very mandatory, (Lk. 17).
It is very
understandable that the offended person is somewhat wary for a period
especially when the offense is adultery, homosexuality, or incest. There may be
a fear that the same transgression may be committed again. Forgiveness is not a
shock treatment which instantly wipes away the hurtful memories of the recent
past. The Biblical concept of forgiving and reconciling is a process and
building a new relationship with the offender poses the following 2 questions.
a) Has there been genuine repentance?
b) Has real forgiveness actually been granted?
Very often the Biblical concept of forgiving and forgetting is misinterpreted; and the Scriptures speak of fruit appropriate to repentance. When one forgives the offender, forgetting is not possible immediately instead, the one, who forgives, remembers the offense, and looks for the fruit or the results that accompany the true repentance.
Let us look at
the following illustration;
P -------Ã F1
---------Ã F2 -------Ã F3
P is the problem
F1 is
forgiveness
F2 is
fruit
F3 is forgetting
When the fruit is fully discerned, then forgetting becomes possible slowly and it is a process, and the desire and the willingness of the forgiven offender to build a new relationship with the one who has forgiven becomes very evident.
While God in His providence, sometimes may wish to bring about the consequences of sin in the life of the offender, for His purposes; Ps. 99:8, the forgiver has no right to take the providence in to their hands. However, when the consequence of sin becomes evident in the life of the offender, God does not intend to make the forgiven sinner suffer. Christ suffered for the sinner, and neither man nor God may require further atonement.3
God reconciles us to Himself through Christ and counts our sins against us no more. “And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to Himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation; To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto Himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation” (2 Cori 5:18-19).
Websites:
1. Definition
for Forgiveness 1,2
www.allaboutgod.com › Forgiving
Others - Learn More! - Cached
Definition for Forgiveness -
Read a definition of forgiveness and thoughts about when to ...
The Bible gives us much instruction when it comes to forgiveness. ...
►References:
1.The Matthew Henry Study Bible, ‘King
James version’ The best of Matthew Henry’s Notes in a Handy One Volume
Reference Bible, World Bible Publishers, Inc; 1994, Iowa Falls, U.S.A.
2. Beth Moore, David Seeking A Heart Like
His, Life Way Christian resources, Nashville, Tennessee, 2010, pgs: 206-210.
3. Jay E. Adams, ‘Critical Stages of
Biblical Counseling’ Finishing Well, Breaking Through, Getting Started, (
4. Jay E. Adams, ‘How to Help People
Change’ The Four-step Biblical Process, (Grand rapids: Zondervan, 1986, p.
20-28)
5. John F. MacArthur, JR. Wayne A.
Mack & The Master’s College Faculty, ‘Introduction To Biblical Counseling’,
“A Basic Guide To The Principles And Practice Of Counseling”(Nashville: Thomas
Nelson Publishers,1994, P. 76-77).
6. Jay E. Adams, ‘The Christian Counselor’s
Manual, The Practice of Nouthetic Counseling’ (Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1973,
p. 15-16, 21-23; 61-703; 92-97).
7. Jay E. Adams, ‘Lectures on Counseling’
(Grand Rapids: Baker Book House, 1978, p.192-203).
8.The Holy Bible, New King James version,
Women of Destiny Bible, “Women Mentoring women Through the Scriptures” A Spirit
Filled Life Bible, Thomas Nelson Publishers, Nashville, Tennessee, Copyright
1982.
9. H. Michael Brewer, ‘Lessons from the
Carpenter’ An Apprentice Learns from Jesus, Published by Water Brook Press,
10. Jesus’ Teaching on Prayer, the Lord’s
Prayer, ‘Know God’s Power and Forgiveness Through the Seven Petitions’ Rose
Publishing,
11. Charles Price, Living Truth,
Experiencing Christ in You, ‘Journey into the Heart of God’ Charles,
Toronto.
Thursday, August 18, 2011
Into the Heart of God?
Prayer builds relationship with God and intensifies the communication with Him. Talking is the key ingredient in building any relationship and Jesus Christ while He was in the planet earth taught the Disciples how to talk to God. He taught them the Lord’s Prayer which is based on the attributes and characteristics of God.
Let us look at the Lord’s Prayer in Matthew 6:9-13;
“Our Father which art in Heaven,
Hallowed be Thy Name,
Thy Kingdome come.
Thy will be done in earth, as it is in Heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread.
And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.
And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil:
For Thine is the Kingdom, and the power and the glory, for ever”: Amen.
The first part of the Lord’s Prayer centers on God, putting God in His rightful place, in our priorities. The second part focuses on our needs- body, soul and spirit and the needs of others. In the Lord’s Prayer Jesus targets all of human behavior and character and reminds us that we always need Him. God wants us to depend on Him moment by moment and experience the good things from Him which He wants to provide. It is an encouragement that we come to God, not as an unreconciled, avenging Judge, but as a loving gracious Father who understand and knows our needs.
God’s Fatherly love: “Our Father which art in heaven” God is compassionate, loving, and merciful, gives life, protects those who trust Him, and longs for a deep relationship with His children. Jesus Christ, God’s one and only Son, taught us the Lord’s Prayer and asked us to approach God as Father. “But as many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on His name: which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.” Jn 1:12-13.
God’s Holiness: “Hallowed be The Name” To hallow means to make holy, and “hallow” God’s Name means to honor and make it sacred. When we pray, we enter the presence of the ‘Living God’ with reverence, thanksgiving, worship and praise. Thanksgiving recognizes that everything we have belongs to God, our talents, gifts, possessions, jobs and our children. As children of our ‘Living God’ do we believe this? “Exalt the Lord our God, and worship at His holy hill: for the Lord our God is holy.” Psa 99:9. “The earth is the Lord’s, and the fullness thereof; the world, and they that dwell therein.” Psa 24:1.
God’s Sovereignty: “Thy Kingdom come” The Almighty God has supreme power and authority over all things in heaven and on earth, and when we acknowledge that we welcome His reign in our lives! The ministry of Jesus Christ in this earth was “to proclaim freedom for the prisoners, to recover sight for the blind, to release the oppressed, and to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor” Luk 4:18-19. His kingdom comes, and when Jesus reigns supreme, there will be no pain, sorrow, suffering, or evil again. “And in the days of these king, shall be the God of heaven set up a kingdom, which shall never be destroyed: and the kingdom shall not be left to other people, but it shall break in pieces and consume all these kingdoms, and it shall stand for ever.” Dan 2:44.
God’s Authority: “Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.” On earth human free will results in selfishness, greed and all kinds of evil. When we pray this prayer, we are praying that all people submit to the will of God over their own desires, and faithfully love God and neighbors as themselves. “Teach me to do Thy will; for thou art my God: Thy spirit is good; lead me into the land of uprightness.” Psa 143:10. “And he went a little further, and fell on his face, and prayed saying” O my Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me: nevertheless, not as I will, but as thou wilt.” Matt 26:39.
God’s Providence: “Give us this day our daily bread.” The Greek word for ‘bread’ not only represents food, but also every physical thing we need. When we ask God for our daily bread, it means asking God to provide for our material, physical, emotional, spiritual, volitional, and relational needs for that day. This could also include our daily needs of ministries, people, communities, leaders, family, friends and other personal needs and God commits Himself to provide for His children when we depend on His mercy. “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and His righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.” Matt6:33. “And Jesus said to them, I am the bread of life: he that cometh to Me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on me shall never thirst.” Jn 6:35.
God’s Mercy: “And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.” (Debt vs. Trespasses) Several Greek words are used to describe sin, and the Gospel of Matthew uses the word, ophelema, which is rendered ‘debt’ Matt 6:12; and paraptoma, which is rendered ‘trespass’ in Matt 6:14. God will forgive us only as much as we forgive those who have injured us, and in the Lord’s Prayer we ask God to be merciful and forgive our sins. “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” 1 Jn 1:9.
God’s Protection: “And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.” God provides us a good defense we need to protect ourselves against the weapons of Satan and that is by praying for protection, we prepare each day for battle against evil. “There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.”1 Cori 10:13.
“When our Christian experience becomes dry, there’s very little praying going on.” – Charles Price.
Jesus Christ not only encourages that relationship of trust with the Father, but willingly died a horrible death to purchase the right of believers in Christ, to be called children of God. Jesus Christ made it clear that the church’s mission is to lead people to Himself, and he commissioned to all His disciples to proclaim that Jesus is King and Lord over all; Matt 28: 18-20. While we learn to trust in God’s Sovereignty, and His ability to do His good will for our lives, we learn to trust His commands to exercise the muscles of our wills in prayer. Because of God’s Providence, compared to rest of the people on earth we are wealthy Christians! It is very easy to forget that Jehovah Jireh is our Provider!
Praying for forgiveness requires listening quietly in God’s presence so that He may reveal to us our own acts of disobedience, our resentments, and our unresolved issues in our hearts and even with our neighbors. As Christians we inevitably continue to sin, but our lives need to be characterized by a reducing frequency of sin with an increasing sensitivity to sin. It is a great privilege for believers and we can trust our Father in heaven who has promised not to leave us unprotected from the enemy, but to protect, deliver and forgive. Jesus Christ taught us to use God’s Name in honorable ways and for purposes that deepen and endear our bonds to Him. The more we learn to talk with God, the more we learn to please Him and we touch His heart!
References:
1.The Matthew Henry Study Bible, ‘King James version’ The best of Matthew Henry’s Notes in a Handy One Volume Reference Bible, World Bible Publishers, Inc; 1994, Iowa Falls, U.S.A.
2. David Seeking A Heart Like His, ‘Beth Moore’ Life Way Christian resources, Nashville, Tennessee, 2010, pgs: 206-210.
3. Jay E. Adams, ‘Critical Stages of Biblical Counseling’ Finishing Well, Breaking Through, Getting Started, (New Jersey: Zondervan, 2002, p.6-7)
4. Jay E. Adams, ‘How to Help People Change’ The Four-step Biblical Process, (Grand rapids: Zondervan, 1986, p. 20-28)
5. John F. MacArthur, JR. Wayne A. Mack & The Master’s College Faculty, ‘Introduction To Biblical Counseling’, “A Basic Guide To The Principles And Practice Of Counseling”(Nashville: Thomas Nelson Publishers,1994, P. 76-77)
6. Jay E. Adams, ‘The Christian Counselor’s Manual, The Practice of Nouthetic Counseling’ (Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1973, p. 15-16, 21-23; 92-97)
7. Jay E. Adams, ‘Lectures on Counseling’ (Grand Rapids: Baker Book House, 1978, p.192-203)
8.The Holy Bible, New King James version, Women of Destiny Bible, “Women Mentoring women Through the Scriptures” A Spirit Filled Life Bible, Thomas Nelson Publishers, Nashville, Tennessee, Copyright 1982.
9. H. Michael Brewer, ‘Lessons from the Carpenter’ An Apprentice Learns from Jesus, Published by Water Brook Press, Colorado, 2006; pgs 50-59.
10. Jesus’ Teaching on Prayer, the Lord’s Prayer, ‘Know God’s Power and Forgiveness Through the Seven Petitions’ Rose Publishing, California.
11. Living Truth, Experiencing Christ in You, ‘Journey into the Heart of God’ Charles Price, Toronto.
Let us look at the Lord’s Prayer in Matthew 6:9-13;
“Our Father which art in Heaven,
Hallowed be Thy Name,
Thy Kingdome come.
Thy will be done in earth, as it is in Heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread.
And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.
And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil:
For Thine is the Kingdom, and the power and the glory, for ever”: Amen.
The first part of the Lord’s Prayer centers on God, putting God in His rightful place, in our priorities. The second part focuses on our needs- body, soul and spirit and the needs of others. In the Lord’s Prayer Jesus targets all of human behavior and character and reminds us that we always need Him. God wants us to depend on Him moment by moment and experience the good things from Him which He wants to provide. It is an encouragement that we come to God, not as an unreconciled, avenging Judge, but as a loving gracious Father who understand and knows our needs.
God’s Fatherly love: “Our Father which art in heaven” God is compassionate, loving, and merciful, gives life, protects those who trust Him, and longs for a deep relationship with His children. Jesus Christ, God’s one and only Son, taught us the Lord’s Prayer and asked us to approach God as Father. “But as many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on His name: which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.” Jn 1:12-13.
God’s Holiness: “Hallowed be The Name” To hallow means to make holy, and “hallow” God’s Name means to honor and make it sacred. When we pray, we enter the presence of the ‘Living God’ with reverence, thanksgiving, worship and praise. Thanksgiving recognizes that everything we have belongs to God, our talents, gifts, possessions, jobs and our children. As children of our ‘Living God’ do we believe this? “Exalt the Lord our God, and worship at His holy hill: for the Lord our God is holy.” Psa 99:9. “The earth is the Lord’s, and the fullness thereof; the world, and they that dwell therein.” Psa 24:1.
God’s Sovereignty: “Thy Kingdom come” The Almighty God has supreme power and authority over all things in heaven and on earth, and when we acknowledge that we welcome His reign in our lives! The ministry of Jesus Christ in this earth was “to proclaim freedom for the prisoners, to recover sight for the blind, to release the oppressed, and to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor” Luk 4:18-19. His kingdom comes, and when Jesus reigns supreme, there will be no pain, sorrow, suffering, or evil again. “And in the days of these king, shall be the God of heaven set up a kingdom, which shall never be destroyed: and the kingdom shall not be left to other people, but it shall break in pieces and consume all these kingdoms, and it shall stand for ever.” Dan 2:44.
God’s Authority: “Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.” On earth human free will results in selfishness, greed and all kinds of evil. When we pray this prayer, we are praying that all people submit to the will of God over their own desires, and faithfully love God and neighbors as themselves. “Teach me to do Thy will; for thou art my God: Thy spirit is good; lead me into the land of uprightness.” Psa 143:10. “And he went a little further, and fell on his face, and prayed saying” O my Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me: nevertheless, not as I will, but as thou wilt.” Matt 26:39.
God’s Providence: “Give us this day our daily bread.” The Greek word for ‘bread’ not only represents food, but also every physical thing we need. When we ask God for our daily bread, it means asking God to provide for our material, physical, emotional, spiritual, volitional, and relational needs for that day. This could also include our daily needs of ministries, people, communities, leaders, family, friends and other personal needs and God commits Himself to provide for His children when we depend on His mercy. “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and His righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.” Matt6:33. “And Jesus said to them, I am the bread of life: he that cometh to Me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on me shall never thirst.” Jn 6:35.
God’s Mercy: “And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.” (Debt vs. Trespasses) Several Greek words are used to describe sin, and the Gospel of Matthew uses the word, ophelema, which is rendered ‘debt’ Matt 6:12; and paraptoma, which is rendered ‘trespass’ in Matt 6:14. God will forgive us only as much as we forgive those who have injured us, and in the Lord’s Prayer we ask God to be merciful and forgive our sins. “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” 1 Jn 1:9.
God’s Protection: “And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.” God provides us a good defense we need to protect ourselves against the weapons of Satan and that is by praying for protection, we prepare each day for battle against evil. “There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.”1 Cori 10:13.
“When our Christian experience becomes dry, there’s very little praying going on.” – Charles Price.
Jesus Christ not only encourages that relationship of trust with the Father, but willingly died a horrible death to purchase the right of believers in Christ, to be called children of God. Jesus Christ made it clear that the church’s mission is to lead people to Himself, and he commissioned to all His disciples to proclaim that Jesus is King and Lord over all; Matt 28: 18-20. While we learn to trust in God’s Sovereignty, and His ability to do His good will for our lives, we learn to trust His commands to exercise the muscles of our wills in prayer. Because of God’s Providence, compared to rest of the people on earth we are wealthy Christians! It is very easy to forget that Jehovah Jireh is our Provider!
Praying for forgiveness requires listening quietly in God’s presence so that He may reveal to us our own acts of disobedience, our resentments, and our unresolved issues in our hearts and even with our neighbors. As Christians we inevitably continue to sin, but our lives need to be characterized by a reducing frequency of sin with an increasing sensitivity to sin. It is a great privilege for believers and we can trust our Father in heaven who has promised not to leave us unprotected from the enemy, but to protect, deliver and forgive. Jesus Christ taught us to use God’s Name in honorable ways and for purposes that deepen and endear our bonds to Him. The more we learn to talk with God, the more we learn to please Him and we touch His heart!
References:
1.The Matthew Henry Study Bible, ‘King James version’ The best of Matthew Henry’s Notes in a Handy One Volume Reference Bible, World Bible Publishers, Inc; 1994, Iowa Falls, U.S.A.
2. David Seeking A Heart Like His, ‘Beth Moore’ Life Way Christian resources, Nashville, Tennessee, 2010, pgs: 206-210.
3. Jay E. Adams, ‘Critical Stages of Biblical Counseling’ Finishing Well, Breaking Through, Getting Started, (New Jersey: Zondervan, 2002, p.6-7)
4. Jay E. Adams, ‘How to Help People Change’ The Four-step Biblical Process, (Grand rapids: Zondervan, 1986, p. 20-28)
5. John F. MacArthur, JR. Wayne A. Mack & The Master’s College Faculty, ‘Introduction To Biblical Counseling’, “A Basic Guide To The Principles And Practice Of Counseling”(Nashville: Thomas Nelson Publishers,1994, P. 76-77)
6. Jay E. Adams, ‘The Christian Counselor’s Manual, The Practice of Nouthetic Counseling’ (Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1973, p. 15-16, 21-23; 92-97)
7. Jay E. Adams, ‘Lectures on Counseling’ (Grand Rapids: Baker Book House, 1978, p.192-203)
8.The Holy Bible, New King James version, Women of Destiny Bible, “Women Mentoring women Through the Scriptures” A Spirit Filled Life Bible, Thomas Nelson Publishers, Nashville, Tennessee, Copyright 1982.
9. H. Michael Brewer, ‘Lessons from the Carpenter’ An Apprentice Learns from Jesus, Published by Water Brook Press, Colorado, 2006; pgs 50-59.
10. Jesus’ Teaching on Prayer, the Lord’s Prayer, ‘Know God’s Power and Forgiveness Through the Seven Petitions’ Rose Publishing, California.
11. Living Truth, Experiencing Christ in You, ‘Journey into the Heart of God’ Charles Price, Toronto.
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