Angry? Why? Ephesians 4:26-27

Good morning everyone! God is good all the time, all the time God is good.  TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!
    Well, did you think about lying?  Being truthful?  After the lies comes anger.
Ephesians 4:26-27 "And 'don't sin by letting anger control you.' Don't let the sun go down while you are still angry, for anger gives a foothold to the devil."
    The Bible does not tell us we should not be angry, however, it points out that it is important to handle our anger properly.  Might I say maturely.  If anger is vented thoughtlessly it can hurt others and destroy relationship.
    If we bottle it up it festers, becomes a huge sore and can cause us to become bitter and be destroyed from within.  Paul tells us to deal with anger that builds relationships rather than destroy them.  If we hang on to that anger, think about it a day, two, week or more, this provides an opening for the devil to come in and either divide us or destroy the relationship.
    If you are angry at someone right now, how will you resolve the differences?  Don't let the day fade without repairing the relationship. Love you all!
In Christ's Love and Grace
   Johnny

Liar, Liar, pants on fire! Ephesians 4:25

Good morning all. God is good all the time, all the time God is good.  TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!
    Today's lesson relates either to you, me directly or indirectly each and every day.  We have entertainment situations, sports situations, political situations, even religious situations that happen daily that destroys trust, causes conflicts, and disrupts unity.  Even warfare, whether verbally or physically, breaks out.
    Ephesians 4:25 "So stop telling lies. Let us tell our neighbors the truth, for we are all parts of the same body."
    The Brewers baseball team has a player suspended and why? Because he LIED about taking stimulating drugs.  Pro-football player suspected of lying about killing a man.  A-Rod being looked at a possible suspension for what? LYING about taking enhancing drugs.  
   Even in the "religious" world, people lie about the resurrection, death, and Crucifixion of Christ. Even lies about the true word of God and distort it to fit our means at that time.
    Hollywood, people lie and it is BIG NEWS, politicians lie and we shrug our shoulders.  Can we stop the lies?  One prayer at a time, one person at a time.  Be truthful, be Christlike, YOU BE THE FIRST TO START, tell the truth - let others see CHRIST IN YOU!!
      "So stop telling lies. Let us tell our neighbors the truth, for we are all parts of the same body."
In Christ's Love and Grace
Johnny
 

Throw off the old sinful nature - Eph 4:22-24

Good morning all. God is good all the time, all the time God is good.  TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!
   Ephesians 4:22-24 "Throw off your old sinful nature and your former way of life, which is corruped by lust and deception.  Instead, let the Spirit renew your thoughts and attitudes. Put on your new natue, created to be like God-truly righteous and holy."
    Our old way of life before we believed in Christ is completely in the past.  We should put it behind us like old clothes to be thrown away.  When we decide to accept Christ's gift of salvation, it is both a one time decision, as well as a daily conscious commitment.
   We are not to be driven by desire and impulse.  We must put on the new nature, head in the new direction, and have the new way of thinking that the Holy Spirit gives.
    Where are you in your spiritual life?  Following the new or reverting to the old? Love you all.
In Christ's Love and Grace
   Johnny
p.s. straight from my morning study
may it touch you as it did me

Energy vampires or energizer bunny?

Good morning everyone! God is good all the time, all the time God is good. TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!!
   Jon Gordon has written a book entitled "The Energy Bus," where he tells  a story about people who create positive energy consisting of vision, trust, optimism, enthusiasm, purpose and spirit that defines great leaders and teams.
    How well this relates to our spiritual life in Jesus Christ.  See if you can follow these 10 rules and relate them to scripture.
  1. You're the driver of the bus -----you get to choose the direction of your life: Jesus or ........
  2. Desire, vision and focus move your bus in the right direction--walking in the world or with Jesus
  3. Fuel your ride with positive energy -- be filled with the Holy Spirit, letting the Spirit direct you
  4. Invite people on your tour bus and share your vision for the road ahead -- plant seeds as we are told to do, spread the good news of salvation through Jesus
  5. Don't waste your energy on those who don't get on your bus---you plant the seed, you cannot force them to accept Jesus, your job is to plant the seed, God will take over from there
  6. Post a sign that says "NO ENERGY VAMPIRES ALLOWED" on your bus -- satan will come and try to turn people back to the world, counter with the nature of Jesus
  7. Enthusiasm attracts more passengers and energizes them during the ride--let others see JESUS in you and they will want what you have
  8. Love your passengers -- the greatest commandment love your neighbor as yourself
  9.  Drive with purpose -- when you leave the confines of your home and get on your bus, know what you are going to do today; spread the good news of JESUS and salvation
  10. Have fun and enjoy the ride -- Enjoy your life here on earth as it is short, but you are preparing for life eternal with GOD.  "Et don't get no gooder dan dat." (East Texan). 
   Are you an energy vampire, always complaining about something, OR are you and energizer bunny, sharing and bringing joy to others?  Look inside.  Work for Christ; be like Christ; share the word of Christ!  Love you all.
   In Christ's Love and Grace
     Johnny
Here are 3 scriptures for today:

1. Psalm 18:2
   The Lord is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust; my buckler, and the horn of my salvation, and my high tower.
2. Psalm 18:35
   Thou hast also given me the shield of thy salvation: and thy right hand hath holden me up, and thy gentleness hath made me great.
   Psalm 18:46
   The Lord liveth; and blessed be my rock; and let the God of my salvation be exalted.

See, yet blinded? Hearts hardened? John 12:37-41

Good morning everyone! God is good all the time, all the time God is good. TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!
   Today, friends, we are in a fight!  Yes, a fight for religious freedom.  Our constitution offers us the freedom of religion---not the freedom FROM religion.  However, today, in the United States, we, Christians, are the target of oppression.  Ever hear of the ACLU (American Civil Liberties Union)? A group of people who fight against any form of Christianity they can.  A Holocaust Memorial back East is under attack now because they are planning to put the Star of David, a six pointed star, above the memorial.  This, they claim is offensive and points toward Judaism.  Huh?
   In Jesus times, He and his disciples were under attack by the Pharisee, Sadducee, and the masses. Yes, satan is at work everywhere.  Fighting Christianity - notice there is no, or appears to be no opposition to the Islamic extremists and Islam.  Why?  Well, satan's fight is with God - the Trinity - and the Islam's just are not a threat to him.  Plus, they are assisting him in his pulling away from Christianity.  Hmm?   Are you passive when someone says it does not matter what you believe in, as long as you believe in a god?  Does this make sense to you?  Just believe - it doesn't matter.

   John 12:37-41 ^{37 "}Even after Jesus had performed so many signs in their presence, they still would not believe in him. ³⁸ This was to fulfill the word of Isaiah the prophet:“Lord, who has believed our message and to whom has the arm of the Lord been revealed?”³⁹ For this reason they could not believe, because, as Isaiah says elsewhere:⁴⁰ “He has blinded their eyes and hardened their hearts, so they can neither see with their eyes, nor understand with their hearts, nor turn—and I would heal them.”

⁴¹ Isaiah said this because he saw Jesus’ glory and spoke about him."
  Man, wow, oh wow! They saw, yet was blind to the miracles; their hearts had hardened. It was, and still is a choice to accept or reject Jesus Christ as our personal LORD and Saviour!  We must spread the word, be bold, and go forth. Be as Paul, my friend, be as Paul.  If you don't have it in you to do so, then you need to go back to your strength-God- and ask for help, go back to GOD!
  Time is crucial my friend, your life and the life of your family and friends are at stake. STAND UP FOR JESUS!  Love you all.
   In Christ's Love and Grace
     Johnny
p.s. stand up strong for God as you would for politics, sports, or other things of the world!!!
 

Does your light shine as Jesus' did? John 12:35-36

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?  Did you say something nice and pleasant yesterday to brighten someones day?  Nice smile, pretty shirt/blouse, you look happy, etc.?  Jesus is the light, we must spread his light through-out the world.
    John 12:35-36  ³⁵ Then Jesus told them, “You are going to have the light just a little while longer. Walk while you have the light, before darkness overtakes you. Whoever walks in the dark does not know where they are going. ³⁶ Believe in the light while you have the light, so that you may become children of light.” When he had finished speaking, Jesus left and hid himself from them.
   Jesus said he would be with them in person for only a short time, and they should take advantage of his presence while they had it.  Like a light shining in a dark place, he would point out the way they should walk.  If they walked in his light, they would become children of the light, revealing the truth  and pointing people to God.  
   As Christians, we are to be Christ's light bearers, letting his light shine through us.  How brightly is your light shining?  Can others see Christ in your actions?  Reflect my friend on your Christian life.  Love you all. 
  In Christ's Love and Grace
     Johnny 

The Royal Prince? Which one? John 12:21

Good morning everyone! God is good all the time, all the time God is good. TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!
   What are you thankful for?  What do you look forward to?  Where is your life going?  Are you spreading the seeds of salvation?  What, in Heavens (God's) name are you doing?
    Is your life meaningful?  Do YOU feel your life is meaningful?  Why or why not?  Who is your prince?  The dark or the light?
   Lots of questions just flowing through my mind today.  The USA Today newspaper in big headlines for 7/23/2013 "THE PEOPLE'S PRINCE first royal baby in the digital age."  People excited and just waiting for the royal baby, the prince, to be born.  Why?  What difference does it make?
    Our Prince was born over 2,000 years ago, we still talk about him.  We still study His word! I am excited about the Prince who was born 2013 years ago!!!  How about you?  People all around the world know of our prince, Jesus, who was born over 2000 years ago.  Who was the prince in English about 130 years ago?  Only a few historians remember Prince Albert Victor, and sooo?
   It is important to remember who we are in the image of; who came and saved our rotten, sinful souls. Non other than Jesus.  We need to remember John 12:21 ".......sir, we would see Jesus."
  Life on earth is nothing more than an exhale in the time of God. Make the best of it; as the pianist practices to prepare for a concert - you, my friend, are practicing for life eternal.  Are you doing the best you can?  Food for thought today.  Brighten someones day today. Tell him or her they look nice, have a nice smile, how much you appreciate them, share the blessings you have. Love you all.
    In Christ's Love and Grace
      Johnny
p.s. tomorrow "the light"

Get the yeast out! Mark 8:15

Good morning friends!  God is good all the time, all the time God is good. TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!
   Today, my friend, will be short and sweet.  Mark 8:15 "As they were crossing the lake, Jesus warned them, "Watch out!  Beware of the yeast of the Pharisee and of Herod."
      People knew of the Pharisees, and since Jesus was talking mainly to non-Jews they knew of Herod.  So, Jesus' statement was spoken so that all could understand.  Watch out - we know what this means: be aware of what is going on, be vigilante and ever watchful.  
     Then, beware of the yeast of the Pharisee and of Herod?  Huh?  Did they have something to do with making bread?  No, not in the yeast, I mean least.  YEAST in this passage symbolizes evil.
     Just as a small amount of year is needed to make a batch of bread rise, so the hard-heartedness of the religious and political leaders could permeate and contaminate the entire society, causing them to rise up against Jesus.
    Do you have this type of yeast inside you?  Inside your church? From the pastor or staff?  You need to remember that you are not a member of So and So Church, but a member of Jesus Christ's body.
    Get the yeast out; separate it, and help it to change or avoid it.  One word from an evil tongue can damage many.  Do you hear that the pastor...........?   There it goes. That is a tool of satan.  Be strong my friend.  Drink of the living water ---- Jesus!!!  Love you all.
In Christ's Love and Grace
    Johnny

Believe or non-belief? How is your heart? Mark 8:11-12

Good morning everyone!  God is good all the time, all the time God is good.  TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!!
  So, what is happening in your world?  Are you walking secular or spiritual?  Hmm, good question, huh?  Now, at this time Jesus had fed thousands,  twice,  with only a few loaves of bread and few fish; He had healed people and he had performed other miracles.  Let us look at Mark 8:11-12 Jesus and His disciples crossed over to the region of Dalmanutha after feeding the masses. 
       The Pharisees heard that Jesus had arrived.  So what did they do?  They went to him, they questioned him (argued with him), and in doing so Jesus' spirit was saddened.  The Pharisees were desperate, they saw Jesus as a threat and wanted to proved Jesus' miracles were luck, coincidence, or evil power.  At this point they demanded a sign from God, showing that Jesus was sent of God.
    Oh, how this troubled Jesus, he refused their demand because he knew of their hearts, they would not believe.  There hearts were hardened and would not be changed.
    Now, I ask you my friend - HOW IS YOUR HEART?  Are you a Sunday only Christian, do you pray and thank God for all you have?  Do you live as a Christian?  Do you pray before each meal-no matter where you are?  Where are you my friend?  If you and Jesus are not on friendly, personal terms it is time to become so; it is time to move your relationship that way.  Love you all. Pray for our church, our missionaries, our nation and world.
In Christ's Love and Grace
    Johnny

Be genuine in giving thanks for all things! Mark 8:5-10

Good morning everyone. God is good all the time, all the time God is good.  TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!
   So, what is happening in your secluded, select little world today?  Yesterday Jesus wanted to feed the people who had been with him for 3 days and the disciples, who had seen many miracles (feeding of 5,000) basically said, HUH?  HOW?
   In Mark 8:5-10 Jesus told the people to sit down, they had 7 loaves of bread.  Now this is important - Jesus gave thanks for the food (a model for us) and told the disciples to hand it out. They did to over 4,000 people.  Then what? They found a few small fish, Jesus once again gave thanks and the disciples handed the fish out to how many?  Yes, 4,000.  When all had eaten and were full the disciples picked up how many large baskets of leftover food?  7, seven, 6+1, 8-1 - SEVEN!  Unbelievable, impossible!  Yes, for anyone but Jesus, God in the flesh.
     You and I would have been just like the disciples, going we don't have enough.  Yes, we do. God gives us what we need.  Also, mealtime gives us the opportunity to thank God for meeting our daily needs and all he gives us - life, companionship, relationships, and most of all salvation through Jesus Christ.
    The next time you sit down to enjoy a meal, take time to thank God for the opportunity to visit with Him and thank Him for the food you have, the life you have, and all you have.  Let your gratefulness to God be genuine.
   We have missionaries all over serving peoples needs, America, foreign countries, hostile countries, some our church supports in Africa - please pray for these people; asking for safety, strength, wisdom and knowledge to continue on.  Love you all.  Remember, God makes the impossible possible.
In Christ's Love and Grace
    Johnny

Close or Closed? Mark 8:4

Good morning everyone!  God is good all the time, all the time God is good. TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!
   So, what is happening in your world?  Caught up in the hum drum daily routine?  Need something different?  Just think about when the disciples were with Jesus, it was always something new, yet it wasn't.  Now that sounds like a statement from someone who does not know what he is talking about does it not?  lol
    Well, yesterday we visited about Jesus having spent 3 days with a great multitude of people and was now concerned about feeding them.  Look at Mark 8:4 ⁴ His disciples answered, “But where in this remote place can anyone get enough bread to feed them?”  What? Jesus' disciples did ask this question.
   You would think that the disciples, having been with Jesus, seen Jesus do so many miracles, would not be asking where can we get food out here.   Was there learning curve really slow, they seem to have to be spoon feed each time.  They had already witnessed Jesus feeding over 5,000 with 5 loaves and 2 fish, yet they doubted.  Can you say DUH?
   Sometimes we are slow to catch on.  Why is it we can see where Jesus has brought us from, what He has done for us and many others in the past, then we don't believe that He will do it in the future?  I believe this has to do with 'close' or 'closed' in our lives.  What do you mean by that? If our life, if our heart is CLOSED we will not be able to take in or comprehend what God does for us.  However, if our heart is CLOSE to God, then we will understand, remember what God has done for us, and have faith He will do it again, and again, and again.   What condition is your heart in?  Closed or Close?  Love you all.
    In Christ's Love and Grace
       Johnny
p.s. please pray for our church and missionaries

God takes time, do you? Mark 8:1-3

Good morning everyone! God is good all the time, all the time God is good!  TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!
   Jesus had compassion on the people, Jews and Gentiles alike.  Here in Mark 8 the people Jesus was ministering to had been with him for 3 days.  Many were Jews, many were gentiles, and the multitude was great.  Jesus was concerned.  Concerned about what?  These people being hungry and growing weak.  Read this scripture - Mark 8:1-3 Jesus' message was having a growing impact on the gentiles, they wanted to hear him as much as they could.  
   Now, pay attention to what Jesus was doing; he was not just sharing the Good News of Salvation, then moving on.  Jesus was concerned about all the details of ones life - at this time it is of hunger. When it comes to each of God's children, even ones who are not God's children, he cares about our needs.  Nothing is so important that God forgets about our needs.  Jesus said in Matthew 6:32 - :"Your heavenly Father already knows all your needs."
    God is not so busy with important concerns that he can't be aware of YOUR needs.  Do you have concerns that you think would not interest God?  Nothing, no nothing is too large for him to handle and no need to small to escape his interest.  Take time, now, at break, at lunch, share your needs with God. God is not like you or I ---HE HAS TIME, HE LISTENS, HE IS AWARE; You take time, you share, HE will care.   Love you all.
   In Christ's Love and Grace
      Johnny

Faith, what is your depth? Mark 7:24-37

Good morning everyone! God is good all the time, all the time God is good. TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!
    Okay, I am not going to read all the scripture of Mark 7:24-37, click on the link; it is important you read scripture so don't just bypass, be Nike and Just Do It!  In these passages, two (2) things happened: first, a woman wanted Jesus to cast the demon out of her daughter; then, a deaf mute was brought before Jesus to make him hear and speak.  
     Jesus spoke with the lady, saying first feel the children, not the dogs or family pets. She took the opening and stated that even the dogs eat the children's dropped food or scraps.  Because of her answer and her faith Jesus told her Yes, to go home her daughter was healed.
     The last part, vs. 31-37 a deaf and mute person was brought to Jesus, Jesus put his fingers in his ears, spit on his own fingers - touched the man's tongue and said, "Ephphatha" which means be opened. The man could hear and speak.  Now, why did this happen?  Fatih!
    Yes, Jesus is God, and all things are possible.  This demonstrates the faith these people had in Jesus. We could do the same as Jesus, IF, we had the faith of a mustard seed.  However, we have to be cautious and enter areas of healing others, knowing what we are doing and being led by God.
   If we enter into an area of healing, and it becomes as a "side show" then we would be treading on dangerous ground and opening ourselves up for attacks from satan.  My point of today's study is not to run out and heal people, but to examine the depth of your faith.  My mind always reverts back to Psalms - return to me the joy of salvation and change my heart oh Lord. 
    If I have the "FAITH" I can do all things through He who strengthens me.  What is the depth range of your faith seed today?  On rocky soil - to wither and die; on shallow soil - to sprout and produce no fruit; or on fertile soil to grow, produce much fruit and give hope to others.
   Love you all.
In Christ's Love and Grace
   Johnny

What is in you? Mark 7:16-21

Good morning everyone! God is good all the time, all the time God is good. TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!!
   Yesterday, in Mark 7:14,15 Jesus said what you eat does not defile you, but you are defiled by what is in your heart.
   Today, Mark 7:16-21 Before we go on with this scripture, as a sidebar, the King James version has verse 16 "If any man has ears to hear, let him hear," however the New App, NIV, New NIV all leave out verse 16 - why?  WHY?  Are we deleting from the Bible?  Hmmmm!
   Okay, starting with verse 17 Jesus entered a house to get away from the crowd and his disciples asked him what he meant by the parable he had just used.  Hmmmm!  Do you think Jesus was tired of his disciples not understanding either.  He replied, "Don't you understand either?" (aka - duh!) Then Jesus told them that the food that goes in the mouth passes through the stomach, and then to the sewer.  So, the food is just a way faring stranger passing through a foreign land, leaving bits and pieces of nutrition along the way.  Then what does Jesus say?
   Jesus said, it is what comes from inside that defiles you.  Jesus said from within, or out of a person's heart comes the evil thoughts, sexual immorality, theft, murder, adultery, greed, wickedness, deceit, lustful desires, envy slander, pride, blasphemy, and foolishness.  These all come from within and that is what defiles you.
   I enjoy playing golf. Most of the time it is enjoyable; recently I played with two young men, late teens (19), and when they hit a bad shot they thought a curse word had to go with it.  After 9 holes, it becomes offensive.  So what causes this?  Why do we feel we must do this?  In the club house they are totally different.  Hmmm.  Could something be askew?  What would you do in this situation? Interesting!   Love you all.

In Christ's Love and Grace,
   Johnny

Listen! Understand! What defiles? Mark 7:14,15

Good morning everyone! God is good all the time, all the time God is good.  TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!!
     Mark 7: ¹⁴ Then Jesus called to the crowd to come and hear. “All of you listen,” he said, “and try to understand.  ¹⁵ It’s not what goes into your body that defiles you; you are defiled by what comes from your heart.”
      Take a moment to see what is being said here.  First, what happened?  Jesus called to the crowd. Then what did he say?  All of you listen - we have problems listening today. Now the clincher - "TRY TO UNDERSTAND."  Wow! Don't we all have troubles with understanding today.  We tend to understand what we wish to understand and blow past the rest with no understanding.
    This next part is important.  Jesus says it is not what we put into our body that defiles us, BUT, what comes from the heart. Double WOW!
    Where is your heart?  In the world?  Or given to Jesus?  To God?  The old expression of don't do what I do, do what I say.  How hypocritical and shallow.  We can give good lip service but cannot do it ourselves.  Sounds like the Pharisees of old.
    Psalm 51:12  ¹² Restore to me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me."  We need to go back to the joy of salvation, and have a willing spirit.  A willing spirit to continue on; and then what?
   ¹³ Then I will teach transgressors your ways, so that sinners will turn back to you."  Read this and absorb.  Don't just read words on a page, but, take it to heart.  We are to go forth and teach transgressors God's ways; God's mercy; God's salvation.  Have you shared the truth, the way and the life with anyone lately?  Why not? 
    Now, go forth and do the right thing!  Love you all.
In Christ's Love and Grace
 Johnny

  

God's word or "Pharisee" word? Mark 7:10-13

Good morning friends! God is good all the time, all the time God is good.  TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!
   Yesterday was about traditions.  Now, traditions are not bad if they help us keep our focus on God, Jesus, and the Bible.  Traditions become detrimental when they become the focus and then God becomes less important.  So some traditions are good, we just have to be careful where we place them in our priorities.
   We, as believers and followers of Christ, need to be vigilant in our study of the word and not be led astray by someone who claims to be a theologian or expert.  Jesus talks about this in Mark 7:10-13 when the Pharisees used God as an excuse to avoid helping their families.  They thought it was more important to put money in the Temple treasury than to help their needy parents, even though God's law specifically says to honor fathers and mothers (Exodus 20:12), and to care for those in need (Leviticus 25:35-43).
    Yes, we need to give our money and time to God, but this should never be an excuse to neglect our responsibilities.  Helping others in need in one of the important ways to honor God.  Verse 11 in the New Living Bible says: ‘Sorry, I can’t help you. For I have vowed to give to God what I would have given to you.’ This is a man made rule by the Pharisees and tries to cancel out God's word.  How dangerous is this?  Re-writing or interpreting the Bible for personal gains.  Would you say this is treading on thin ice?
    Don't forget Matthew 25:35 "For I was an hungred, and ye gave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me in:"  Who is watching you? How is your character? Character is what we do when we think no one is watching.  Are you an honorable character? Love you all.
  In Christ's Love and Grace
    Johnny

 

Man's traditions or God's way? Mark 7:8-9

Good morning all! God is good all the time, all the time God is good. TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!!
   Yesterday, in Mark 7:5-7 Jesus spoke to the hypocrites about man made laws in lieu of God's.  Today let us move a little farther into Mark 7, verses 8 and 9.  Mark 7:8-9 --

⁸ You have let go of the commands of God and are holding on to human traditions.”

⁹ And he continued, “You have a fine way of setting aside the commands of God in order to observe your own traditions!
   The Pharisees had added hundreds of their own rules and regulations to God's holy laws, and then they tried to force people to follow these rules.  These men claimed to know God's will in every detail of life, but did they really?  Or, were they only serving their own needs?
   Today, we have religious leaders still who add rules and regulations to God's word.   What does this do?  It creates confusion in the believers.  Someone believes "HE" has the correct interpretation of the word and then imposes what "HE" believes on others.  What are you saying, what are you talking about?
   Okay, not pointing fingers, just facts: music instruments in church or not; dancing or no dancing; some wine or alcohol or no wine or alcohol; tongues or no tongues, and we could go on and on.
    Let me ask a couple of questions: first, isn't it dangerous to set up claims that your interpretation is as important as God's word; second, aren't you held accountable for the Biblical and unbiblical standards you set for others to follow; and last but greatest, aren't we supposed to follow Jesus?
   If our common denominator is JESUS, then all should be based off of JESUS.  Can you honestly say all you do is based on JESUS.  Would you want JESUS standing beside you as you talk and visit with others?   WELL, HE is there; you just don't see Him.
   My friend, let us follow the teaching of Christ and God's path for us rather than our own traditions and straying on different paths through the woods. Different does not mean better. Change does not mean better.  What is better? Knowing and studying God's word.  Then follow God's word.  Love you all. 
  In Christ's Love and Grace,
    Johnny

How is your spiritual life? Routine or real? Mark 7:5-7

Good morning all! God is good all the time, all the time God is good. TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!
   I trust your 4th of July was good.  A 4 day weekend is nice, but then, it is always nice to return to our routine.  How we become creatures of nature, enjoying and liking our own little ways we do things and manage our life.
   Some things do need to be routine, however, some things do not.  For example, when you are studying your Bible - it should not be something you "just do" without thinking.  Maybe you decided to read the Bible in 1 year - you have your schedule, pull it out each day, and do your reading.  Sooo, while you are reading you are thinking about work, the grocery list, chores to be done at home, and on and on.  So, are you in tune and communing with God.  I THINK NOT!  You are simply doing something out of a routine you set up for your self with no thought.
   But what about the guy or gal who gets up, only reads a verse or two, then goes on about his daily business?  Well, were those verses he/she meditated on, thought about, and talked to God about?  If so, well done!  If not, regroup and try again.
  Take a look at Mark 7: 5-7 this speaks of age old tradition, or routine, and the Pharisee and scribes confronted Jesus.  Please click on the verse to see context so you will understand.
   First, Jesus called them "hypocrites."  A hypocrite is pretending to be something your are not and have no intention of being.  Jesus called the Pharisees hypocrites because they worshiped God for the wrong reasons.
   Next, Jesus says they honor God with their lips, but their hearts are far from God.  Their worship was not motivated by love; but, by a desire to attain profit, to appear holy, and to increase their status. This is what happens when we care more about our reputation than our character.
   And, Jesus goes on to tell them their teachings are phony, they have polluted God's teaching to man made ideas and then pass them off as teachings from God.  These men could point out others sins, and emphasize their virtues.  Their hearts were far from God.
     So, my friend, I ask you-- are you going through the routine so others will see you as the Pharisee - a godly person; yet, you heart is far from God?  OR, are you in tune, in step, in place with where God wants you and who you are to be in Christ?  Love you, may your walk be true and for God!
  In Christ's Love and Grace
     Johnny

We are saved and should rejoice!

Good morning all! God is good all the time, all the time God is good.  TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!
   I do hope your 4th of July was fun, safe, enjoyable, and relaxing.  We had a good time, family came, played on land and in the water, ate way too much, and watch the fireworks being shot.  It was a happy time for all.
   Just think about the time when either Jesus returns or you go to see Jesus.  What a day of rejoicing that will be!  Let today be a day of reflection and meditation on what is truly important in your life.  God, Jesus should come up first; then family; then career.
   Think about this verse today.  We all know John 3:16, but what about

John 3:17 King James Version (KJV) ¹⁷ For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.

    Jesus gave to give us everlasting life and joy.  Take time today and this weekend to reflect on Jesus and all He did for you.

Keep loved ones and others in your prayers.  Please remember my friends undergoing cancer surgery/treatment.  Love you all.

In Christ's Love and Grace

 Johnny

FREEDOM! YES, YOU ARE FREE!

Good morning all! God is good all the time, all the time God is good.  TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!!!!
    Happy independence day!  What is independence?  According to Webster: a being independent; freedom from the influence or control of others. Reread the underlined - free from what????  The influence or control of others.  Wow!
    America fought to be free of the tyranny of England - and we won.  Eight years ago I fought to be free of cancer - through modern technology I won.  I have a dear friend who is fighting cancer, Friday she will undergo a double mastectomy, then chemo and radiation - but she will be free of cancer - she will have gained her independence- she will win.  
   We all were born sinners and go through a daily struggle to gain our independence, our freedom from sin.  Can we do it?  No!  Just as I could not defeat cancer, but with the help of modern medicine and technology I could and did win.  Such is our life.  We cannot save our selves, but with the assistance of divine healing we can be free of sin - plus, granted eternal life. Oh, how is this possible?  Through the saviour God sent on our behalf - JESUS CHRIST!  Then, Jesus sent back a guiding light - the Holy Spirit, to help direct our paths in our walk of independence; of freedom.
    Here are some verses about being free:  John 8:36 ; Romans 6:7 ; Romans 6:18 ; James 1:25 ; 1 Peter 2:16 .
Galatians 3:28- this verse tells us we are one in CHRIST!  My friend, God gave you freedom from sin through His son Jesus Christ. (Galatians 4:5).  Rejoice my friend, enjoy the freedom, praise God!  Have a safe and enjoyable 4th of July and remember your freedom. Love you all.
  In Christ's Love and Grace
   Johnny

God listens to you; do you listen? James 1:19,20

Well good morning fellow Christians and Americans!  God is good all the time, all the time God is good. TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED.
   Well, did you look like your father in heaven yesterday?  Did you reflect HIS image?  Or did you remain in the trenches, trudging along, and forgetting to praise God?
    Yes, life is tough.  However, it is much easier with God.  With God you have someone to talk to at anytime - no busy signal or voice message. With God you have someone who listens without interrupting.  With God you have someone who loves you and cares.  As is said in East Texas, "It don't get no gooder than that!"
   Also, it is important for us to listen to God.  When things do not go well we should reflect back to James 1:19,20 "Understand this, my dear brothers and sisters: You must all be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry.  Human anger does not produce the righteousness God desires." 
 Proverbs 10:19 "Sin is not ended by multiplying words, but the prudent hold their tongues.." 
  Proverbs 15:1"A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger."
 Ecclesiastes 7:9 "Do not be quickly provoked in your spirit, for anger resides in the lap of fools."
      Everything said here is what happens when we speak out of anger and our ego has been bruised.  We should be angry at evil, at injustice, at sin, but not just because your were proven wrong, or lost an argument, or possibly feel offended or neglected.  Selfish anger never helps anyone.  We are coming into the 4th of July - Independence Day of America.  
   We need to rejoice we live in the land of the free, home of the brave, and are ONE NATION UNDER GOD!  Slowly we are becoming one nation with many gods and your prayers are needed. However, today, let us rejoice at our religious freedom, rejoice that our national motto is still: IN GOD WE TRUST!  Love you all. 
   In Christ's Love and Grace
     Johnny
 

Whose likeness are you? 2 Cor 4:4 / Phil 2:7

Wow! what a great day to be alive in the LORD JESUS CHRIST!!!  God is good all the time, all the time God is good.  TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!!!
   2 Corinthians 4:4 "Satan, who is the god of this world, has blinded the minds of those who don't believe. They are unable to see the glorious light of the Good News.  They don't understand this message about the glory of Christ, who is the exact likeness of God."
  Philippians 2:7 "But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men:"
  Okay, think about this......Christ gave up His seat in heaven, who came down to earth to give us the chance for everlasting life.  Christ, who is the exact likeness of God, took on the form of a servant, of man.
    Have you taken on the exact likeness of God?  Does your speech, your actions, your life have the exact likeness of God?  What an honor when someone says you look like your father or mother.  How much more of an honor when someone sees Jesus Christ, sees God in you.  When they can tell your steps are led by the Holy Spirit.  What a great honor.
     Whose likeness are you?  God's likeness or the world?  It is your choice, God has known you since before the womb; which way will you turn?  Love you all.  Tell someone about Jesus today!!
   In Christ's Love and Grace
     Johnny
 

God knows you; do you know God? Galatians 1:15,16

Good morning all! God is good all the time, all the time God is good. TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!
   Well, disasters all around us.  Happening where you least expect it, and continuing to happen.  Why?  Fellow Christians, it is time for prayer, prayer through out the nation.  The different sub groups calling for equality, no, demanding equality.  This is fine, but is it with in the scripture guidelines.  Gay/lesbian movement, demonstrations in  Egypt (became violent), attacks on Israel, etc.  Where do we go?  What do we do?
   We have to continue our ministry.  What is your ministry?  Is God first in your life; or is it your career?
Listen to Paul in Galatians 1:15,16 "But even before I was born, God chose me and called me by his marvelous grace.  Then it pleased him to reveal his Son to me so that I would proclaim the Good News about Jesus to the Gentiles. When this happened I did not rush out to consult with any human being."
    Because God was guiding Paul's ministry, Paul wasn't doing anything that God hadn't already planned and given him power to do.   Do you feel or believe God is guiding your ministry?
   Jeremiah 1:5 - God appointed Jeremiah to be his spokesman even before Jeremiah was born. Don't you think God chose and appointed you to do your ministry before you were born?  God has a purpose for each Christian - do you know your purpose?
   Take time to read Psalm 139 , this first part speaks of God as all-seeing, all-knowing, all-powerful and everywhere present.  God knows us, God is with us, and his greatest gift is to allow us to know him.
     Then take time to focus on verses 19-24. This talks about hatred, not hatred so much for personal vengeance, but hatred toward evil and those who hate God.  We are at war, lest ye never forget.  Satan is alive, well, and prowling for souls  to steal.  Beware my friend, stay in the word and live for God!
  In Christ's Love and Grace
     Johnny