Flee, FLee, FLEe, FLEE! 1 Corinthians 10:14,15

Good morning everyone! God is good all the time, all the time God is good. TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!

Well, dear friends, did you think about the verses yesterday, about temptation, God will not give us more than we can stand?

1 Corinthians 10:14,15 KJV "Wherefore, my dearly beloved, flee from idolatry. I speak as to wise men; judge ye what I say."

Idol worship was the major expression of religion in Corinth. Paul could be speaking to us, now, here in American, that idol worship is our major expression of worship.

In Corinth there were several pagan temples that were popular. In America there are MANY pagan temples that are popular. Like what? Oh, like bars, movie theaters, malls, xxx theaters, outside entertainment.

In Corinth statues of wood or stone was what people turned to as if they are gods. That makes a lot of sense, huh? You carve a figure out of wood and then make it a god and pray to it. Huh? That wood or stone will not provide as does the true LIVING GOD!

Well, we don't do that! No? Our gods tend to be material items with the main gods being paper money or plastic.

Putting our trust in anything but God is idolatry. Say that with me, PUTTING OUR TRUST IN ANYTHING BUT GOD IS IDOLATRY! Our modern idols are those symbols of power, pleasure, or prestige that we so highly regard.

When we understand contemporary parallels to idolatry, Paul's words to "flee from the worship of idols" become much more meaningful. FLEE, my friend, put distance between you and the idols. Look up, bow down, humbly come to Jesus for forgiveness and guidance. Love you all.

In Christ's Love and Grace
Johnny

Temptations - how to resist 1 Corinthians 10:12,13

Good morning everyone. God is good all the time, all the time God is good. TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!

How are you doing today? Ready to meet the world which is full of temptations which may lead you astray? We have to remember to look up, bow down, and humbly come to the LORD our GOD.

1 Corinthians 10:12,13 "If you think you are standing strong, be careful not to fall. The temptations in your life are no different from what others experience. And God is faithful. He will not allow the temptation to be more than you can stand. When you are tempted, he will show you a way out so that you can endure."

With all that is happening, has happened, and is going to happen in todays world we need to be aware of the temptations. We live in a culture filled with moral depravity and sin inducing pressures.

Paul tells us this about temptations (while talking to the Corinthians): 1-temptation happens to everyone, you are not being singled out; 2-others have resisted temptation and you can also; and 3-any temptation can be resisted because God will show you a way out.

God will help you: 1- recognize those people and situations that give you trouble; 2-run from anything you know is wrong; 3-choose to do only what is right; 4-pray for God's help; and 5-seek friends who love God and can offer help when you are tempted.

Running from a tempting situation is your first step to victory. 2 Timothy 2:22 "Run from anything that stimulates youthful lusts. Instead, pursue righteous living, faithfulness, love, and peace. Enjoy the companionship of those who call on the LORD with pure hearts."

Love you all.
In Christ's Love and Grace
Johnny

Anger - how does it help? Genesis 39:19-20

Good morning everyone! God is good all the time, all the time God is good. TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!

Did you know an emotional rush to judgment usually leads to a mistake. Anger! What good is anger? Well, let's see, anger helps our blood pressure to rise, our blood vessels to restrict hampering our thought process, our heart to be under strain, and vile words to be projected from our mouths. There! And I am sure there is more, like hurt feelings, offending someone, blurting out a word, phrase or sentence that is hurtful and serves no purpose.

Anger! A fabulous tool satan enjoys using. Yes, Jesus became angry, angry at sin. Patience and endurance will persevere. When we reflect back to Joseph, and when he was in Potiphar's house, his wife lied about Joseph and Potiphar became extremely angry and immediately threw Joseph in jail. Potiphar did not examine the story, get the facts, and make a decision. Probably the same as we would today if our wife told us the same situation. A long and well trusted friend may have lived in your house, but if your wife said.......well......then anger, rage, it colors our mind, we don't think clearly and then...... Well, you know the rest of the story.

Genesis 39:19-20 "Potiphar was furious when he heard his wife's story about how Joseph had treated her. So he took Joseph and threw him into the prison where the king's prisoners were held, and here he remained."

Prisons were grim places with vile conditions. They were used to house forced laborers or, like Joseph, the accused who were awaiting trial. Prisoners were guilty until proved innocent, and there was no right to a speedy trial. Many prisoners never made it to court because trials were held at the whim of the ruler. Joseph was in prison a long time before he appeared before Pharaoh, and then he was called out to interpret a dream, not to stand trial.

So, what lessons might we learn from this situation Joseph is in. First, don't put yourself in a position to be accused. Joseph went in and no servants were in the house and Potiphar's wife had come on to him before. Second, through anger, a judgment may be cast forth that is unjust, we know anger does not listen to reason. And finally, be patient, trust in the LORD, for all things will work out. Joseph came out of this and once again, a Hebrew, was placed in a high position in a foreign land.

The key here is JOSEPH REMAINED FAITHFUL TO GOD! He did not do the woe is me, no body likes me pity party. He remained faithful to God and what God had in store for him. By consulting the LORD we will always become stronger. STOP, KNEEL, LISTEN & FOLLOW GOD. Love you all.

In Christ's Love and Grace
Johnny

You DO bear the marks of Jesus! Galatians 6:16,17

Good morning all. God is good all the time, all the time God is good. TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!

GALATIANS 6: 16 Peace and mercy to all who follow this rule and to the Israel of God. 17 From now on, let no one cause me trouble, for I bear on my body the marks of Jesus.

How careful and diligent we must be in following God. In doing what Jesus Christ did for us on the cross, an act unparalleled by anyone. What a valentine's gift God gave us written with 2 boards and 3 nails - the crucifixion of Jesus Christ.

In the 1930's Hitler came to power. Hitler professed to be a Christian and pulled the churches toward him and slowly infiltrated the church to be the German Church, and then it became the Nazi church, sharing his beliefs of the Aryan Rule or that there is a superior race. How did he do this? Slowly, cautiously, and consistently. No, I am not pointing at Obama, I am pointing at our politicians and the liberal attitude we have collected over the years. Yes, believe it or not WE ALL HAVE LIBERAL IDEAS! We have deviated from the strict word of God.

In 1960, as I was entering our home in Colorado I dropped my books as I stumbled on the last step. Out of my mouth came the word "crap," to which my mother took offense, and yes, she did correct me. What was my defense? But mom, there is nothing wrong with that and everybody uses it. Is this really a defense. Well, yes, I continued to use the word, BUT, not in the presence of adults; only with my friends. Is this liberal? My word is a deviant of the curse word and should I use it? No, probably not. It has now become a less used word in my vocabulary, but a more conscience one. This is only 1 of my many sins; you don't get to hear the rest. lol However, please note the point I am trying to make. A little tainted.....is it really okay? Oh, yeah, the movie was great, you just have to ignore the cursing and the sex. HUH? Do you really go? PLEASE!

Peace and mercy, let no one cause you trouble, why? Because you bear the marks of Jesus. Now I mention Hitler above and my little episode to stimulate thought from you about how you act, how you speak, how you carry yourself and is it Jesus Christ worthy. Am I a sinner? You betcha. Do I regret it? Well, I was born this way thanks to our multi-great grandparents - Adam and Eve. BUT, I am forgiven, through Jesus Christ, and my actions, through the help of the Holy Spirit, will be to walk a path as Christ would walk! Will I fall? You betcha, but Jesus is there to pick me up. Get on your knees and look up! God is God and He is always there, always faithful - Now go forth my friend and do the Jesus thing. Love you all.

In Christ's Love and Grace
Johnny

Are you a new creation? Galatians 6:15

Good morning everyone! God is good all the time, all the time God is good. TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!

I do hope Ash Wednesday at your church was as good as it was at our church. In you mind now, what did you give up? Are you dedicated or convicted of your fast?

There are so many distractions in the world. President Obama, you are either for or against - but he is in the news. Romney, Newt, the republican party, either for or against - they are in the news. Oscars, Academy Awards, sports, disasters in the news, all kinds of things.

Then you come to the Christians who become side-tracked by things like dancing, musical instruments in church, a band in church, tongues, how to be baptized, and on and on. In Galatia they had distractions - to be circumcised or not to be.

Galatians 6:15 "It doesn't matter whether we have been circumcised or not. What counts is whether we have been transformed into a new creation."

It is easy to get caught up with the externals. Beware of those who emphasize actions that we should or shouldn't do, with no concern for the inward condition of the heart. Living a good life without an inward change leads to a shallow or empty spiritual walk. What matters to God is that we be completely changed from the inside out. Look at 2 Corinthians 5:17 & Galatians 5:6).

Stay the course my friend, and may your sails be full. Love you all.

In Christ's Love and Grace
Johnny

Say, because of the cross I...... Galatians 6:14

Good morning all! God is good all the time, all the time God is good. TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!

So, what is happening in your world today? Have you taken time to thank God for who you are, what you are, where you are, and how you are? Then do the Nike thing - JUST DO IT!

Galatians 6:14 "AS FOR ME, MAY I NEVER BOAST ABOUT ANYTHING EXCEPT THE CROSS OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST. BECAUSE OF THAT CROSS, MY INTEREST IN THIS WORLD HAS BEEN CRUCIFIED AND THE WORLD'S INTEREST IN ME HAS ALSO DIED."

The world is full of enticements, temptations. Daily we are confronted with subtle cultural pressures and overt propaganda. The only way to escape these destructive influences is to ask God to help crucify our interest in them, just as Paul did. How much do the interests of this world matter to you?

Galatians 2:20 "My old self has been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me. So I live in this earthly body by trusting in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me."

God looks at us as if we had died with Christ. We have become one with Christ; His experiences are ours. Daily we must crucify sinful desires that keep us from following Christ. Does your life show Christ? Which God is yours? The worldly things or the true living God? How can you improve your walk with Jesus? Love you all. God's word, thoughts to ponder.

In Christ's Love and Grace
Johnny

PAUL'S FINAL ADVICE! Galatians 6:11-13

Good morning everyone! God is good all the time, all the time God is good. TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!

Have you ever, or have you ever met someone who would pick and choose from the Bible its meaning to use at your or his/her advantage? People have practiced this throughout the centuries.

When Jesus came, He fulfilled the law and salvation comes through Jesus Christ! Well, in Galatians 6 verse 11 Paul wrote in all caps: "NOTICE WHAT LARGE LETTERS I USE AS I WRITE THESE CLOSING WORDS IN MY OWN HANDWRITING." Paul wanted the people to know this was truly him speaking to them. You might say it is the same as when we raise our voice slightly to emphasize something.

Galatians 6 verse 12 & 13 "Those who are trying to force you to be circumcised want to look good to others. They don't want to be persecuted for teaching that the cross of Christ alone can save. (13) And even those who advocate circumcision don't keep the whole law themselves. They only want you to be circumcised so they can boast about it and claim you as their disciples."

Okay, verse 12, as I digress as few years. To be circumcised to look good to others - back in the 70's I remember two main pushes as a young Christian in Colorado. Non-denominational churches and speaking in tongues. It was "cool" to belong to a non-denominational or Bible church and lessons were actually given to speak in tongues so you can be closer and speak directly to God; a pipeline to heaven or direct line to God.

That moves me to verse 13, ones who advocate circumcision did not keep the whole law themselves. Some of the Judaziers were emphasizing circumcision as proof of holiness, i.e. speaking in tongues as holiness. But, they were ignoring the other Jewish laws. People choose a certain principle or prohibition and make it the measure of faith. Some may condemn drunkenness but ignore gluttony. Some may condemn promiscuity but tolerate prejudice, some against homosexuality and ignore child abuse.

We cannot pick and choose the mandates we will follow. Well, what about speaking in tongues and non-denominational churches? I will give you a solid answer about these - hit your knees, humbly go into the presence of God and get your answer. The Bible in its entirety is our rule of faith and practice.

Once again, each time your cell phone rings, speak to God. At lunch read a Bible verse. God is like AT&T - he will be in touch so you be in touch. Love you all.

In Christ's Love and Grace
Johnny

Don't give up, the harvest will be GREAT! Galatians 6:9,10

Good morning everyone. God is good all the time, all the time God is good. TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!

Galatians 6:9,10 "So let's not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don't give up. Therefore, whenever we have the opportunity, we should do good to everyone - especially to those in the family of faith."

It is discouraging to continue to do right and receive no word of thanks or see no tangible results. But Paul challenged the Galatians, and he challenges us to keep on doing good and to trust God for the results. In due time, we will reap a harvest of blessing.

Ephesians 2:20 "Together, we are his house, built on the foundation of the apostles and the prophets. And the cornerstone is Christ Jesus himself."

A church building is sometimes called God's house. Really, God's household is not a building but a group of people. Built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets? This means that the church is not built on modern ideas but rather on the spiritual heritage given to us by the early apostles and prophets of the Christian church.

So what are we saying here? Don't get tired, don't give up, you are an important part of the church and you will see results - heaven, eternal life. Love you all.

In Christ's Love and Grace
Johnny

Plant corn and harvest pumpkins? Huh? Galatians 6: 7,8

Good morning everyone. God is good all the time, all the time God is good. TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!

GALATIANS 6:7,8 "Don't be misled-you cannot mock the justice of God. You will always harvest what you plant. (8) Those who live only to satisfy their own sinful nature will harvest decay and death from that sinful nature. But those who live to please the Spirit will harvest everlasting life from the Spirit."

Have you ever heard the term 'fake it to make it?' This may work with people, but not with God. God knows the truth. Harvest what you plant. It would be a big surprise if you planted corn and pumpkins came up. We harvest what we plant, that is just the law of nature. It is true in other areas. If you gossip about your friend, you will lose their friendship. Every action has results.

If you please your own desires, you will harvest a crop of sorrow and evil. If you plant to please God, you will harvest joy and everlasting life. What kind of seeds are you planting? Love you all.

In Christ's Love and Grace

Johnny

Do you support your preacher/teacher? Galatians 6:6

Good morning everyone! God is good all the time, all the time God is good. TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!

Yesterday we talked about responsibility. We each ARE RESPONSIBLE for our very OWN ACTIONS. Many refuse to do so and will reap the harvest they sow. What about the teachers of the word? I would relate this to each of you, who is a teacher in your own field.

Galatians 6:6 "Those who are taught the word of God should provide for their teachers, sharing all good things with them."

Paul says that students should take care of the material needs of their teachers. Look at 1 Corinthians 9:7-12, which speaks about when working we would expect to receive a portion of what we helped provide. This is what Paul is saying, it is easy to receive the benefit of good Bible teaching and then to take our spiritual leaders for granted, ignoring their financial and physical needs.

We should care for our teachers, not grudgingly or reluctantly, but with a generous spirit, showing honor and appreciation for all they have done. Look at 1 Timothy 5:17,18. Each one of us should be teachers of the word, but these passages are talking about the people who are full time in preaching and teaching the word of GOD. Do you begrudge your tithe? Do you offer over and above willingly?

Let us not be ones who complain about giving to the church, then go out to eat, buy drinks all during the day, and spend money freely on our wants. Things of this world will go away, the preacher and teacher who teaches the salvation, the blood of Jesus, the resurrection gives us a far greater gift - eternal life. Support your pastor; support your teacher. What would Jesus do? Love you all.

In Christ's Love and Grace
Johnny

Does the word RESPONSIBILITY mean anything to you? Galatians 6:4,5

Good morning everyone! God is good all the time, all the time God is good.
TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!

What is happening in your world today? Anything exciting? Yesterday I mentioned rejoicing. My first rejoicing was the elements went out in my water heater, well, an element, a thermostat, and a service call later all is well and once again there is hot water in the house. I rejoiced that it did not leak. Well, a dear friend emailed that her apartment she rents had the water heater in the attic, it went out, leaked, and her renter called her at 4:30 in the a.m. to report the ceiling had fallen in. She did rejoice that she could fix it all, but what a dilemna. We can always find someone who is worse off, so rejoice my friend.

RESPONSIBILITY! No one wants to take responsibility for their actions. The American society, and world, wish to find someone else to be the fall guy, the scape goat, but by golly it is not my fault. If you are not responsible for your actions, then who is. Well, he/she made me do it; or if he/she had done.......... Come on people, be responsible.

Galatians 6:4,5 "Pay careful attention to your own work, for then you will get the satisfaction of a job well done, and you won't need to compare yourself to anyone else. For we are each responsible for our own conduct."

What?!?!? The Bible tells us we are responsible for OUR OWN CONDUCT! Can you believe that? (Yes, Shelton, I am being funny). When you do your very best, you feel good about the results. There is no need to compare yourself with others. People make comparisons for many reasons. Some point out others' flaws in order to feel better about themselves. Others simply want reassurance that they are doing well.

When you are tempted to compare, look at Jesus Christ. His example will inspire you to do your very best, and his loving acceptance will comfort you when you fall short of your expectations. Sooo, get up, go out there America and do your very best. Jesus is walking with you and will carry you when necessary. Tomorrow we talk about the student and the teacher. Love you all.

In Christ's Love and Grace
Johnny

Can you say "rejoice?" Psalm 13:5

Good morning everyone! God is good all the time, all the time God is good. TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!

So, how is your day going? Happy Valentine's Day! Have you or are you doing something special for that someone special? Well, my valentine's suprise this morning is the water heater quit. Yea! Just remember to rejoice in all things. The elements have quit as the power did not trip, so what to do next? Call the repair man.

Psalm 13:5 "But I trust in your unfailing love, I will rejoice because you have rescued me."

How does this relate? Well, the elements went out. Sooo, I do not have water all over the floor, I don't have a huge mess to clean up, just the elements went out. Simply replace them myself or call a repair man and just get it done.

I can rejoice because I was rescued! First by Jesus, then along the long trodden path many times rescued from potential major disasters. The water heater could have be huge. It was not. I do rejoice for that and that God is watching over me.

Besides your significant other, what do you have to rejoice about today? I rejoice because I have a godly wife. I rejoice because my children are saved and under God's protective hand. Now, your turn to rejoice. Love you all.

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY!

In Christ's Love and Grace
Johnny

Rejoice in the LORD! Psalm 35:9

Good morning everyone! God is good all the time, all the time God is good. TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!

Well, how was your weekend? I do hope it was filled with fun, family, and Jesus! Just an observation here--GOD spelled backwards is 'dog'. Now a moment of thought -- when you come home your dog is excited to see you; he does not care what you look like, smell like, dressed like, or arrived in -- your dog is always happy and excited to see you.

Is it a coincidence that GOD backwards is dog? God is excited to see us always. Happy to have us come home. Is this not deep caring love? Are you as excited about talking to God? Are you as excited about fellowshipping with other Christians? Do you get excited just thinking about studying the Word, going to be with other Christians, or just talking to God?

Jesus said be hot or cold, but if you are lukewarm I will spit thee from my mouth. Our destiny in life is easy - heaven or hell. I attended a church yesterday that is of a little different cut of cloth, a Unity Church. The people in there were alive, believing in what was said, and all the congregation was singing and moving to the spiritual movement of the songs. How many times do we attend our own church and instead of standing in the Spirit we "sit on the Spirit?"

If you are not rejoicing in the LORD, what are you doing? Take off the mask, let your hair down, God wants the real you and HE wants all of you. If all Christians would hit their knees in prayer, rise up in their faith, America and the world would be a different place.

WAKE UP AMERICA!! PSALM 35:9 "THEN I WILL REJOICE IN THE LORD, I WILL BE GLAD BECAUSE HE RESCUES ME." LUKE 1:47 "HOW MY SPIRIT REJOICES IN GOD MY SAVIOR!"

Love you all!

In Christ's Love and Grace
Johnny

Your body, the temple of the Holy Spirit! 1 Corinthians 6:19-20

Good morning everyone. God is good all the time, all the time God is good. TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!

Paul told us in the verses prior we are not to partake of any type of sexual sin. Let's look at what Paul says next.

1 Corinthians 6:19-20 "Don't you realize that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit, who lives in you and was given to you by God? You do not belong to yourself, for God bought you with a high price. So you must honor God with your body."

Why does Paul mean when he said that our body belongs to God?
Many people say they have the right to do whatever they want with their own bodies. Although they think that this is freedom, they are really enslaved to their own desires.

When we become Christians, the Holy Spirit comes to live in us. Therefore, we no longer own our bodies. God bought us "with a high price" refers to slaves purchased at an auction. Christ's death freed us from sin but also obligates us to his service. If you live in a building owned by someone else, you try not to violate the building's rules. Because your body belongs to God, you must not violate his standards of living.

Your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit, you need to take good care of the temple. Romans 14:7,8 "For we don't live for ourselves or die for ourselves. If we live, it's to honor the LORD. And if we die, it's to honor the LORD. So whether we live or die, we belong to the LORD."

Have a great day, and as Jesus said, "Go and sin no more!" Love you all.

In Christ's Love and Grace
Johnny

Your body is actually a part of Christ!!! 1 Corinthians 6:15-17

Good morning everyone! God is good all the time, all the time God is good. TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED! Yesterday the scripture was about homosexuality and the male prostitutes in the temple of Apollo. Paul tells us we should avoid sexual sin. One day we will be with God in heaven singing holy, holy, holy; but until that time we must treat our bodies as part of Christ's body. 1 Corinthians 6:15-17 "Don't you realize that your bodies are actually parts of Christ? Should a man take his body, which is part of Christ, and join it to a prostitute? Never! And don't you realize that if a man joins himself to a prostitute, he becomes one body with her? For the Scriptures say, 'The two are united into one.' But the person who is joined to the LORD is one spirit with him." This teaching about sexual immorality and prostitutes was especially important for the Corinthian church because the temple of the love goddess Aphrodite was in Corinth. This temple employed more than a thousand prostitutes as priestesses, and sex was part of the worship ritual. Paul clearly stated that Christians are to have no part in sexual immorality, even if it is acceptable and popular in our culture. Stop and think about the t.v. shows you watch that are just a "little shady." Does this make it okay, you are an adult and "understand" but does this make it right? A little dirt or filth is okay? This goes back to the dad who made premium quality brownies with just a wee little bit of manure in them. Would you eat them? Then why would you allow the same manure to enter your household. Thoughts to ponder: are you living a life of Christ or a life of YOU? Love you all. In Christ's Love and Grace Johnny

Do your actually realize that YOUR BODY IS PART OF CHRIST?!?! 1 Corinthians 6:15-17

Good morning everyone! God is good all the time, all the time God is good. TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!

Yesterday the scripture was about homosexuality and the male prostitutes in the temple of Apollo. Paul tells us we should avoid sexual sin. One day we will be with God in heaven singing holy, holy, holy; but until that time we must treat our bodies as part of Christ's body.

1 Corinthians 6:15-17

Don't you realize that your bodies are actually parts of Christ? Should a man take his body, which is part of Christ, and join it to a prostitute? Never! And don't you realize that if a man joins himself to a prostitute, he becomes one body with her? For the Scriptures say, 'The two are united into one.' But the person who is joined to the LORD is one spirit with him.

This teaching about sexual immorality and prostitutes was especially important for the Corinthian church because the temple of the love goddess Aphrodite was in Corinth. This temple employed more than a thousand prostitutes as priestesses, and sex was part of the worship ritual.

Paul clearly stated that Christians are to have no part in sexual immorality, even if it is acceptable and popular in our culture.

Stop and think about the t.v. shows you watch that are just a "little shady." Does this make it okay? You are an adult and "understand" but does this make it right? A little dirt or filth is okay? This goes back to the dad who made premium quality brownies with just a wee little bit of manure in them. Would you eat them? Then why would you allow the same manure to enter your household? Thought to ponder: are you living a life of Christ or a life of YOU? Love you all.

In Christ's Love and Grace

Johnny

Same sex marriage? Is it okay? 1 Corinthians 6:9-11

Good morning everyone! God is good all the time, all the time God is good. TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!

Where are we, the citizens of the United States of America headed? What do we stand for? If we speak not against something then our silence is speaking for it.

Did you read or hear the news yesterday about same sex marriage? Where does the Bible stand on this?

1 Corinthians 6:9-11 "Don't you realize that those who do wrong will not inherit the Kingdom of God? Don't fool yourselves. Those who indulge in sexual sin, or who worship idols, or commit adultery, or are male prostitutes, or practice homosexuality, or are thieves, or greedy people, or drunkards, or are abusive, or cheat people--none of these will inherit the Kingdom of God. Some of you were once like that. But you were cleansed; you were made holy; you were made right with God by calling on the name of the LORD JESUS CHRIST and by the SPIRIT of our GOD."

In a permissive society it is easy for Christians to overlook or tolerate some immoral behavior (greed, drunkenness, etc.) whle remaining outraged at others (homosexuality, thievery). We must not participate in sin or condone it in any way; we cannot be selective about what we condemn or excuse. Staying away from more "acceptable" forms of sin is difficult, but it is no harder for us than it was for the Corinthians. God expects his followers in any age to have high standards.

On a scale of 1 to 10 where would you rate your standards? On the same scale where would you rate your commitment to God? Do you walk the walk that you talk?

The temple of Apollo employed men whose job it was to fulfill the sexual desires of male and female worshipers. Some Christians say that people have a right to choose their sexual preference. The Bible specifically calls homosexual behavior sin (Leviticus 18:22-29; Romans 1:18-32; 1 Timothy 1:9-11).

As Christians we must be careful to condemn only the practice, not the people. Those who commit homosexual acts are not to be feared, ridiculed, or hated. They need to be prayed for; they can be forgiven and their lives can be transformed.

The church, the people (which is the church) should be a haven of forgiveness and healing for repentant homosexuals without compromising our position against homosexual behavior. Come, stand tall and firm on the Word of God, the Bible; be loving as God, but waiver not. Love you all.

In Christ's Love and Grace
Johnny

Matthew 10:7 The kingdom of heaven is near

Good morning everyone. God is good all the time, all the time God is good. TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!

What are you doing daily for the kingdom of God? Look at Matthew and think about this for a moment.

Matthew 10:7 As you go, preach this message: 'The kingdom of heaven is near.'

Here are two questions. Do you preach this message? Do you believe the kingdom of heaven is near?

If someone was walking and about to come in to danger would you say something or would you allow him/her to continue until danger struck? If you have Christ in your heart you would warn that person.

Well, we know the kingdom of heaven is near; people around you may be walking in danger - WILL YOU WARN THEM?

Think about this! If I don't tell you about the danger you may be unaware of, but I am aware of it.......am I guilty of letting you get hurt?

I know and believe, through Christ who saved me, there is a hell. If I don't share this with others am I basically telling them to go to hell? Don't you want them to experience eternal life? Would not I wish them to experience Jesus and be saved?

So, check your day. Are you offering more people the opportunity to experience heaven or hell? The choice is yours and our commission is to go unto all the world and spread the good news! Now, do the right thing. Love you all.

In Christ's Love and Grace
Johnny

From the lips or from the heart? Matthew 15:8,9

Good morning everyone! God is good all the time, all the time God is good. TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!

Where do you sit today? In the audience of hypocrites or the audience of true believers? Do you provide great lip service for the church, or are you a walking testimony for Christ?

Matthew 15:8,9 "These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me. Their worship is a farce, for they teach man-made ideas as commands from God."

The prophet Isaiah also criticized hypocrites (Isaiah 29:13) and Jesus applied Isaiah's words to these religious leaders. The Pharisee knew a lot about God, but they didn't know God.
When we claim to honor God while our heart is far from him, our worship means nothing.
It is not enough to study about religion or even to study the Bible; it is not enough to act religious. Our actions and our attitudes must be sincere, if they are not, Isaiah's words also describe us.
So, once again, time to evaluate. Are you sitting with the hypocrites? Or, are you a walking testimony to God? The only Bible some people read?
You should be the seed the farmer planted, not the weed placed by the evil one. Love you all. Witness to someone, invite someone to church. Church is not the building; church is and will always be the people - whether they meet in a building, a lot, under a bridge, or in a home somewhere. Go forth my friend and share the blessings of Jesus Christ.

In Christ's Love and Grace
Johnny

Reality shows! What do they teach us? Proverbs 3:11,12

Good morning all! God is good all the time, all the time God is good. TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!

Okay all. While I was working out this morning the television was on (in hotel)and the ads came on which stimulated thinking on my part. Oh No!

What is wrong with our society, our world? The entertainment is "out there" and priorities are misguided. Why do you say that? Okay, here goes.

A 30 second ad, as reported on Fox news for the Super Bowl will cost 3 1/2 million dollars. Can any of you remember when 250,000 for a 30 second spot was outrageous?

Also, these "REALITY SHOWS" where people berate, browbeat, curse, and treat others horribly. What makes this "fun" to watch? Really? This is entertainment? Are you serious? Does your heavenly father treat you this way?
Proverbs 3:11,12 "My child, don't reject the LORD's discipline,, and don't be upset when he corrects you. For the LORD corrects those he loves, just as a father corrects a child in whom he delights."
Discipline means to teach and to train. Discipline does not mean to react and treat in anger, in hatred, browbeating and poor treatment.
God is the source of all love. He does punish us because he wants to see us develop. But he punishes us in love to help us become morally strong and good, we must learn the difference between right and wrong.
What is being taught in the reality shows to actually help people develop morally, spiritually, and become better people. Too many people will be quick to tell you there is nothing wrong with these shows.
My answer is: "Is this what the Bible teaches?" Only one way to heaven - JESUS - not money, status, or reality shows. Love you all. Thanks for letting me vent. Welcome your feedback.

In Christ's Love and Grace
Johnny

Vanity, arrogance, & God? Proverbs 8:13 ; 3:7

Good morning everyone. God is good all the time, all the time God is good. TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!

I have been and continue to read about Dietrich Bonhoeffer and while reading he stimulates a lot of thought about me, about my Christianity, and how Christians act. Here are quotes I found quite interesting.

"It is much easier for me to imagine
a praying murderer, a praying prostitute,
than a vain person praying. Nothing is so
at odds with prayer as vanity."
Dietrich Bonhoeffer

"Christianity contains within itself a germ
hostile to the church." Dietrich Bonhoeffer

The more a person fears and respects God, the more he or she will hate evil. What is evil? The things of this world that we put above God. Love for God and love for sin cannot coexist. Harboring secret sins means that your are tolerating evil within yourself. Make a clean break with sin and commit yourself completely to God.

Proverbs 8:13 "All who fear the LORD will hate evil. Therefore, I hate pride and arrogance, corruption and perverse speech."
Proverbs 3:7 "Don't be impressed with your own wisdom. Instead, fear the LORD and turn away from evil."

Re-read Bonhoeffer's quotes, then the scripture. LET GO OF ALL IN THE WORLD. You have sorrows, troubles, things happening - LET GO! God is in control. It is not about YOU!!!! IT IS ABOUT JESUS, yes JESUS! Love you all.

In Christ's Love and Grace

Johnny

As the beggar, shout out to Jesus! Mark 10:46-52

Good morning everyone. God is good all the time, all the time God is good. TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!

Are you "proud" of your belief in Jesus, God, and the Holy Spirit? Or do you "SIT ON" the spirit - not allowing the Spirit to work in your life? How often do we want to be politically correct to not offend others, yet it is offensive to you and your true belief in the true and living God?

Jesus and his disciples were leaving Jericho and a large crowd followed them. A blind beggar named Bartimaeus was sitting beside the road and when he heard Jesus of Nazareth was nearby he began to shout, "Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!"

The people began to yell back at the beggar to be quiet, to shut up, but he only shouted louder. Again and again he shouted "Son of David, have mercy on me!" When Jesus heard him he said, "Tell him to come here."

Jesus asked Bartimaeus "what do you want me to do for you? and Bartimaeus responded, "My rabbi, I want to see." Jesus said to him, "go, for your faith has healed you." Instantly the man was healed, could see and followed Jesus down the road.

Do you shout out for Jesus to heal you? Would your faith heal you? My friend, if you are reading this you do have faith, you do believe in Jesus, God, and the Holy Spirit. I can only say to you when you call out - as Jesus did - go, for your faith has healed you! If you have doubt, satan is playing with you. Stand strong in your faith and shout out to Jesus. Love you all.

In Christ's Love and Grace

Johnny