Liar, Liar, pants on fire! Proverbs

Good morning all. God is good all the time, all the time God is good.  TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!
 On this date in 2005 New Orleans was covered with 80% water.  When disaster hits, what do most people do?  They try to aid the ones in need, yet in New Orleans, many of the residents became liars, thieves, and had not concern for their fellow man.
   Helicopters were being sent in to save peoples lives, while other looted.  How low can a person become.  And, as most people when caught doing something wrong either lied about it, or it was not their fault. Hm!  Here are 3 verses to read and think about. 
Proverbs 17:4   
        A wicked doer giveth heed to false lips; and a liar giveth ear to a naughty tongue.
 Proverbs 19:22

        The desire of a man is his kindness: and a poor man is better than a liar. 

Proverbs 29:24   

       Whoso is partner with a thief hateth his own soul: he heareth cursing, and bewrayeth it not.  

   Do you know someone who will look you in the eye and lie; when the true would have been better? Yesterday I talked about honesty - returning something that is not rightfully yours.  Today, a liar!  Ever hear of the story about the little boy who cried wolf one too many times.  LIAR!

   To work in God's kingdom we need to all be one. We are one body, the hand does not tell the foot it is not needed; all parts are needed.   Just as all of a man's integrity is important.

   A man's character or integrity is how he acts when no one else is watching.  Where are you today my friend?  Love you all.

In Christ's Love and Grace

   Johnny

 

Ye shall do no unrighteousness in judgment......Levit 19:35-37

Good morning everyone! God is good all the time, all the time God is good.  TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!
   Have you ever picked up something and took it with you?  Maybe a pen, pencil, or anything that really was not yours?  Have you ever been given back too much change at the bank, grocery store, filling station, or department store?  What did you do?  Take it and leave or return and correct the situation?  Hmmmm!  I heard a man once say the bank teller gave him $100 too much and tough, that was her mistake and she is supposed to be a professional.  Was this right? Was he right?  Hmmm
     Leviticus 19:35-37 "Ye shall do no unrighteousness in judgment, in meteyard, in weight, or in measure. 36Just balances, just weights, a just ephah and a just hin, shall ye have: I am the LORD your God, which brought you out of the land of Egypt. 37 Therefore shall ye observe all my statutes, and all  my judgments and do them: I AM THE LORD!" 
    Okay a meteyard is a yard, staff or rod used as a measure. An ephah is approximately one bushel or 33 litres.  A hin is a Hebrew unit of liquid measure equal to approximately 5.5 quarts (1 gallon 1 1/2 quarts or 5 litres).
   These are all fair measurements and understood by all.  So what is God saying here?  Let's make this quick and easy.  God is interested in complete honesty in our business lives, our personal lives, even when it is tax time.  Are you giving what you should?  Do you give your tithe PLUS offering (offering which may be monetary or time)?  Are you being totally honest with God?  With others around you?
   Have a wonderful and blessed honest filled day. Love you all.
In Christ's Love and Grace
   Johnny

Are you an "in the world" Christian or "of the world" Christian?

Good morning all. God is good all the time, all the time God is good.  TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!
    Last week pastor asked us to think about 2 questions, and one is what does "world" mean to you as a Christian.  Hmm.  As we travel through the modern world, the 21st Century, world tends to take on a distorted view.  Can you be of the world physically?  Can you be of the world spiritually?
   As a believer in Jesus Christ I am of this world physically; however, I am not part of it.  Huh? Not part of it meaning we do not have the same values as the world.  Look at John 17:14-15 (click here for parallels)

¹⁴ I have given them thy word; and the world hath hated them, because they are not of the world, even as I am not of the world.
¹⁵ I pray not that thou shouldest take them out of the world, but that thou shouldest keep them from the evil.
      As believers we are to be set apart; to not engage in the sinful activities the world promotes, our mind should not be corrupted to the ways of the world.
    As believers we are to conform ourselves, and our minds, to that of Jesus Christ.  This is a daily activity and commitment. Look at Romans 12:1-2 (click on to see parallels) 

1 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.

² And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.
   Being in the world means we can enjoy the things of the world, like the beauty, however, we are not to join in the world values or lust/covet worldly pleasures.  Our "pleasure" should come in knowing God has called you, you are a child of God, and pleasure comes in our worship to God.  Food for thought.  Comments?  love you all
In Christ's Love and Grace
    Johnny
 

Good or bad? Have false idols? 2 Chronicles 31:1

Good morning all. God is good all the time, all the time God is good.  TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!
   Can bad or evil be changed to a great good?  What do you think?  A man with time and money happens to see a woman of great beauty.  Then he desires her and she is constantly on his mind, but, the problem lies in the fact that she is married to someone he knows.  Hmm!  Now the husband happens to be out of town.  The desire to be with this woman grows so he, as a friend, has dinner with her, is charming, rich, powerful, and then has sex with her.  Awww! Desires filled, mission complete.
   But wait, she returns to him, her husband still out of town, to report she is pregnant.  What!? This can't be.  So what to do?  The rich and powerful man arranges for "an accident" to happen to the husband.  It does, he is dead, no problem, now marry the beauty and live happily ever after.
   Well, this did not happen.  There were many tragedies for this man of God, King David, until a child named Solomon was born.  Solomon came to power and was definitely a man of God.  Solomon showed great wisdom and was a man of God and one act he had performed is something we all need to practice today.  Look at 2 Chronicles 31:1  "Now when all this was finished all Israel that were present went out to the cities of Judah, and brake the images in pieces, and cut down the groves, and threw down the high places and the altars out of all Judah and Benjamin, in Ephraim also and Manasseh, until they had utterly destroyed them all.  The all the children of Israel returned, every man to his possession, into their own cities."
  What did this just say?  All idols, false gods were destroyed.  What false gods do you have? Can good come from your dark side?  Two things for you to think about here: can good come from evil; and what false gods or idols do you have in your life?  Take time to reflect.  Love you all.
  In Christ's Love and Grace
     Johnny

Pray - do you use it flippantly or for real? Philippians 4:6 1 Thessalonians 5:17

Good morning all! God is good all the time, all the time God is good.  TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!
  Yesterday at church, Church Under A Bridge, Tyler, (for homeless and needy) it was pretty awesome. We baptized a good friend who happens to be homeless and has been going through trials and tribulations the last month.  
    The message give by Pastor Jabo was very good and thought provoking.  He mentioned a word that is over used and the meaning somewhat watered down - pray!  Just like the word love.  How often do we use love?  I love this car; I love my house; I would love to have...........
   Well, he mentioned how often do we so flippantly say something like: "I will pray for you," then go on about our business and don't think about it again.  The definition of prayer is "a solemn request for help or expression of thanks addressed to God or an object of worship." 
Philippians 4:6 - Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.
1 Thessalonians 5:17 - Pray without ceasing.
   When you tell someone you will pray for them, be sincere, write it down, ask specifically how you can pray for them.  Then, as Nike says, "JUST DO IT!"  Think back, how often do you tell someone I will pray for you, then go on about your business.  Why don't you just pray right then and there; then remember them and pray again in your quiet prayer and devotional time?
   Folks, we are at a place in this world where we need to take up arms, meaning use meaningful prayer to battle the dark evil forces around us.  YOU have a MINISTRY!  Your ministry is to pray for others and share God's word with others.  Come on now, let's go forth with the breastplate of armor on and trek into battle for the righteousness of God.  Love you all.  Check out our church at: www.cuabtyler.org - and if you need a ministry to support consider us. 
   In Christ's Love and Grace
     Johnny

Are you led with a bridle? Psalm 32:8-9

Good morning all. God is good all the time, all the time God is good. TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!!!!
   Have you ever headed in one direction, then suddenly you turned and headed in a completely different direction?  Then you realized it was God taking you that way!  That is what I did this morning.  I was headed in a SE direction, when suddenly the LORD opened me up and took me in a NW direction. Wow!   And then what he opens up for us. This popped out at me this morning.
    Psalm 32:8-9 "The LORD says, "I will guide you along the best pathway for your life. I will advise you and watch over you.  Do not be like a senseless horse or mule that needs a bit and bridle to keep it under control.""
    WOW!  God describes some people as being like horses or mules that have to be controlled by bits and bridles.  We should let God guide us step by step, but instead we leave God only one option- the bridle.
    With the bridle come discipline and punishment to guide us along.  God prefers leading us with love and wisdom.  We need to accept the advice written in God's word and don't let our stubbornness keep us from obeying God.  I bought a new shirt that has a Bible on it with the words: "If at first you don't succeed, read the instructions." (The Bible)
  In Christ's Love and Grace
    Johnny

All ye people, praise the LORD - Psalm 117

Good morning everyone! God is good all the time, all the time God is good.  TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!
   Are you in the ministry?  Well, no, my job is with..........  My friend we are all called to the ministry of God. Do you share Jesus or the Bible with at least one person each day?  God does so much for us and cares about us.  Today is the beginning, God is with you, let us go out and share.
   Psalm 117 "O praise the LORD, all ye nations: praise him, all ye people.  For his merciful kindness is great toward us: and the truth of the LORD endureth forever.  Praise ye the LORD."
    Take time - praise God in all you do today.  Let the work you do be for HIS glory. Love you all.
In Christ's Love and Grace
   Johnny

listen - LISten- LISTEN! Then speak! James 1:19 Proverbs 17:28

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?  In your daily walk are you quick to speak - yet slow to listen? How often do we hear only part of what someone is saying before we are forming a response in our mind?  Even worse, how often when someone is speaking, and before they are finished with their statement you begin speaking - this is called interrupting. How rude, huh?  Guilty!
   Our Bible tells us to be quick to listen, and SLOW TO SPEAK!  Can you say you abide by this.  I can say I do, but my wife and children will tell you otherwise.  This is when I have to step up to the plate and follow God's word.
    James 1:19 - Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath:
    Proverbs 17:28 - Even a fool, when he holdeth his peace, is counted wise: [and] he that shutteth his lips [is esteemed] a man of understanding.
   Please note this last part, even a fool is counted wise when what?  He holdeth his peace.  Is there a lesson here? Yep, shut up!  I see it as being one of self absorption. I, and what I have to say is more important than what the other person is saying - this is the attitude portrayed.  Is this really your attitude, or did you just have moments of "I"?
     How often in the Bible do we encounter the word "LISTEN?"  The verse you know is: be still and know that I am.  What is all this telling us.  Basically, shut up, listen, and don't interrupt.  Can you do it?  As Bob the Builder says, "Yes, I can!!"
   Number 1: listen to God - in your prayer time; continually through out the day
   Number 2: listen to what others are really saying without forming a quick retort or response.
I heard a minister talking about this yesterday and he did not call my name, but I felt him talking to me. Just wanted to share.  Maybe it will help you in your walk with Christ.  My prayer for today is that I listen and do the will of God; speaking only when necessary.  Love you all.
   In Christ's Love and Grace
    Johnny

Would you feed me? Matthew 25:35,36

Good morning friends! God is good all the time, all the time God is good.  TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!
   What do you do in an uncomfortable situation?  Many of you know, some do not know that my wife and family are involved in Church Under A Bridge, a street ministry, under a bridge, for homeless and needy/unfortunate people.  I have found many blessings here, as have many on the ministry team; however, I have become comfortable in this ministry, with the people, and the surroundings.
    Now comes the quandary.  My job has taken me to San Antonio, Tx for a day and a half.  I arrived late yesterday, the hotel dropped me down by the riverwalk to dine.  The homeless, needy, and pan-handlers are on every corner.  Many homeless here and did I feel comfortable when a young man asked me for a sandwich from McDonalds?  No, I did not feel comfortable in this setting. So, what did I do?  Nothing at that time.
    I went to eat and asked God for discernment and words to say.  When I returned to where the young man was, he was gone; at this I felt disappointed.  As I continued to walk, a young woman (late 20's) spoke to me.  I returned to meet her, her mom, and her son.  They were living at a shelter, asked for food.  When I said let's go to McDonald's they said they were kicked out of there.  I asked what church they went to; I asked if they knew Jesus as their saviour.  The response was yes.  Yes, I fed them.
   The point I am trying to make here is: what would you do in an uncomfortable situation?  Yesterday I talked about prayer and being obedient to follow God's word.  Did I feed angels here on earth or was I duped?  It really does not matter, I did what I felt God would wanted me to do. 
    My mind reverted back to Matthew 25:35For I was hungry, and you gave Me something to eat; I was thirsty, and you gave Me something to drink; I was a stranger, and you invited Me in; 36naked, and you clothed Me; I was sick, and you visited Me; I was in prison, and you came to Me.'…
     When we are out, we are in our ministry field; each one of us. I also think of Ephesians 6 about putting on the full armor of God.  Love you all.  Prepare for the day, you may encounter and angel or you may encounter darkness -- how well are you prepared? 
In Christ's Love and Grace
   Johnny
 

Pray? Pray! Come boldly to God - Ephesians 3:12

Good morning fellow Christians!  God is good all the time, all the time God is good.   TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!!
    Where are you today?  In life in general; but more importantly and specifically in your spiritual life?
How much time do you spend with God?  Really?  Does this make you proud?
   I did my prayer time this morning and felt like I had been praying a long time; only about 8 minutes in prayer.  Hmmm!  I ask myself why?  Why do I not spend more time in solitude prayer?  Things going on, things to do in the day, the mind is replaying things that need to be done during the day.  Okay, so change the time.  Hmmm, I have tried that as well, I have tried my prayer time just before bed time, and you know what?  It is quite hard to not fall asleep in the middle of the prayer.
    So, why am I babbling about this time of prayer?  Well, we need to stay in tune; stay in touch with God.  My solution is to continue my prayer time in the morning, then pray through out the day. A person cuts you off in traffic, slow down and pray for them.  A person bumps into you while out in public, apologize and pray for them.  Also, pray all during the day.  It is refreshing and brings a refreshed spirit from within.
    We are able to reach God anytime, anywhere, anyplace.  Ephesians 3:12 "Because of Christ and our faith in him, we can now come boldly and confidently into God's presence."   Wow!
    Take time my friend to pray.  It hurts not; it heals wounds; and builds a great relationship with our Father in Heaven, plus, it gives us a better perspective of life.  Love you all.
In Christ's Love and Grace
   Johnny

Salvation -- a thing of LOVE! Ephesians 2:9

Good morning everyone! God is good all the time, all the time God is good.  TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!!!
     Yesterday from Ephesians 2:8 my topic was "thank you", just say thank you.  Today, Ephesians 2:9 "Salvation is not a reward for the good things we have done, so none of us can boast about it."
     You are not rewarded -- salvation is not a reward ---- it is a gift from our Heavenly Father who loves us dearly.  God so loved the people HE created in HIS own image, who each have free will, who each has sinned and many turned away.  The world became so full of darkness that HE, GOD, sent HIS son, the Light of the World, so that we may once again be close to HIM.
   Salvation is love, given to us freely and without strings, to once again walk with GOD.  Have you truly accepted God's gift of love -- salvation -- so you may once again commune with HIM?
   All we have to do is praise God, shout with joy, and share the good news with others!  Can you do it? As Bob the Builder says, "YES YOU CAN!"  Love you all.
   In Christ's Love and Grace
     Johnny

Just say "thank you" for a gift! Ephesians 2:8

Good morning all. God is good all the time, all the time God is good.  TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!
     Today, in Ephesians 2: 8 " God saved you by his grace when you believed.  And you can't take credit for this; it is a gift from God."
      Wow!  Pretty powerful.  When someone gives you a gift what do you say?  I have preached to my daughters all you have to do is say 'THANK YOU' for what is being given.  There is usually a reason someone wishes to bestow a gift upon you, and your response should be THANK YOU!  
    People tend to think how can I repay you, or how can I work for you to make this up, or just how in the world can I repay you?  We do the same with God.  We think we have to work for our salvation.  Wrong, ole wise one!  The gift of salvation is a GIFT!!  Works is a result of our salvation and comes later.  All we need to do is respond to God with gratitude, praise, joy, and a big THANK YOU.
    Do this, then let others see Jesus in you as you walk today.  Love you all.
In Christ's Love and Grace
   Johnny

Got your ticket? John 3: 17, 21

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

Say, do you have your ticket?  What ticket?!?!  The ticket you need to fly?   What do you mean fly?  Well, I mean, flying with Jesus in the clouds -- Do you have your ticket?
    How do I acquire this ticket?  John 3:17  "God sent his Son into the world not to judge the world, but to save the world through him."  So, the ticket was sent by God - the ticket is His Son --- JESUS!
   People of the world love the darkness -- meaning foul language, bad thoughts, bad deeds, but the ones who accept JESUS love the light.  John 3:21 "But those who do what is right come to the light so others can see that they are doing what God wants."    Both of these verses were spoken by Jesus.  So, do you have your ticket to come to the light?  Or, are you still flailing around in the darkness, hoping God and others do not see what you have done and are doing?  It does not matter, God sees everything AND you know all you have done.  Don't hide it anymore, share it with God, ask forgiveness, and step into the boldness of the new light----the light of JESUS!
    Food for thought:  Lansing, Michigan broke off being sister cities with St. Petersburg, Russia because of their anti-gay policies.  What do you think?  Who is right?  Wrong? Or is this an political over-reaction?  Hmmmm!
    Do you have your ticket?  Ticket to heaven?  Love you all.
In Christ's Love and Grace
    Johnny

Separated from God's Love? Why? Who moved? Ephesians 4:1,2

Good morning everyone! God is good all the time, all the time God is good.  TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!!
   How strong are we individually?  How strong are we as a collective group?  Look at Germany, on Aug. 13, 1961, Berlin was divided as East Germany sealed off the border between the city's eastern and western sectors in order to halt the flight of refugees.
    Can you imagine the separation between you and your loved ones?  Living in the same city, yet unable to communicate and visit with them.  How often do we build a barrier between us and a loved one?
   Even worse, how often do we build a barrier between us and God---God's love.  Who built it?  NOT GOD!  If you are separated from God's love you walk in a foreign and barren land.  Where God's love is not -- there is darkness, evil, coldness!
   Ephesians 4:1 "Therefore I, a prisoner for serving the LORD, beg you to lead a life worthy of your calling, for you have been called by God."
    Ephesians 4:2  "Always be humble and gentle. Be patient with each other, making allowance for each other's faults because of your love."
  God has CHOSEN YOU to be CHRIST'S REPRESENTATIVE on earth.  Paul challenges YOU to LIVE LIVES WORTHY of the calling we have received.  You are Christ's very own. Rejoice, be remain as verse 2 states.  Easy to retaliate and cast stones back.  When feeling this way revert back to Ephesians 4:2.   Love you all.
In Christ's Love and Grace
   Johnny

Jesus, do you share your saviour daily?

Good morning all! God is good all the time, all the time God is good.  TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!
   This is coming to you because on this date, Aug. 12, 1981 IBM came out with their first personal computer, model 5150.  Just 32 years and look at what this one discovery has spawned.  Amazing!
   But you know, with all the advancements we have, nothing is more amazing than our God!  If you look around and see all he has created. Wow!!  The different types of creatures that roam the earth (humans included) and the different types of plants.  Hmmm, mind boggling for sure.
   Today, no scripture just questions.  Yesterday at church was awesome!  Have you ever visited with someone and led them to know Jesus?  To experience salvation?  If so, did you revel in the glory or give the glory to God?  How did you feel?
    Do you try to share Jesus each and every day?   I do, and I am not bragging or being prideful.  We are to walk in such a fashion that others will see Jesus in us.  This is what I do and it helps me as much if not more than the one with whom I come in contact.  Smile, greet them with a pleasantry such as: you have a nice smile, thank you for helping me, nice shirt, pretty blouse, or any thing that will bring attention to them to make them feel good.
    Maybe to a family member just thank them for being part of the family and that they bless you.  Hmm.
It is easy to throw barbs (cold pricklies) so try sharing warm fuzzies with others and see how that affects your day, week, month and year.  Walk like Jesus. Stay thirsty my friend, for the living water!
In Christ's Love and Grace
   Johnny

Repent, forgive, receive Holy Spirit Act 2:38

Hello and good day!!  God is good all the time, all the time God is good.  TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!
   Acts 2:38

Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.

      We can talk about this that and the other all day long and to what great venue does this provide.  The way people drive, what ole so n so did to me, how he/she acts toward me, the way they looked at me, and on and on.  WHAT IS YOUR PROBLEM?

    God has been dealing with me on this, specially driving as much as I do and "road rage", which I tell my family is only road FRUSTRATION.  Forgiveness!!

    Forgive!! Come on, quit hanging on to that burden; LET IT GO!!  You are wearing yourself down. STOP IT!  Stop it for God's sake and your sake.  LET GO------LET GOD!!!!
In Christ's Love and Grace
    Johnny
 

Is your light shining? Or are you sitting in darkness? Eph 5:8-9/Matt5:15-16

Good morning my friend!   God is good all the time, all the time God is good.  TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!!
   Ephesians 5:8-9 "For once you were full of darkness, but now you have light from the LORD.  So live as people of light!  For this light within you  produces only what is good and right and true."
   This is you and this is me - once full of darkness but now...........  As people who have light from the LORD, our actins should reflect our faith.  We should live above any moral criticism so we reflect God's goodness to others.  Jesus stressed this truth in the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5:15,16)
   Read this slowly and take time to absorb:  Matthew 5:  ¹⁵ Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. ¹⁶ In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.
   Let you light shine today and each day going forth.  Love you all.
In Christ's Love and Grace
   Johnny
 

Have you been fooled? What is your walk? Ephesians 5:5-7

Good morning everyone! God is good all the time, all the time God is good.  TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!
   Did you think about the obscene stories, foolish talk, etc. we visited about yesterday.  Then, wouldn't you know it, yesterday a man shared an off color joke with me, and what did I do?  Hmmm, I simply grinned and nodded, then changed the subject.  Should I have said something or just let it go, as I did? What do you think?
    Ephesians 5:5-7 "You can be sure that no immoral, impure, or greedy person will inherit the Kingdom of Christ and of God.  For a greedy person is an idolater, worshiping the things of this world.  Don't be fooled by those who try to excuse these sins, for the anger of God will fall on all who disobey him."
    Paul writes against the life-style of people who make excuses for bad behavior and recommend its practice to others--whether they are in the church or outside of it.  Such people quickly pollute the church and endanger its unity and purpose.
   We must befriend unbelievers if we are to lead them to Christ, but we must be wary of those who are viciously evil, immoral, or opposed to all that Christianity stands for.  Such people are more likely to influence us for evil than we are to influence them for good.  And how do I do this? I need to be in line with what God wants me to do and constantly pray for discernment and guidance.  I pray for wisdom and knowledge so I can walk the walk Christ wants me to walk.  Love you all. Now do the right thing!
In Christ's Love and Grace
    Johnny

Obscene,foolish talk? Is that you? Ephesians 5:3,4

Good morning all!  God is good all the time, all the time God is good.  TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!
   When I do my prayer time and Bible study in the mornings I simply share with you what God is teaching me.  If it relates to you, then take it to heart; however, if it does not touch you please realize it is simply a lesson that you can read, enjoy or not, delete.  God convicts me daily and makes me aware of the wrongs in my life.  I do pray HE leads me and each lesson will touch not only me, but at least one who is reading.  Thank you for being there, whether you read, delete, or ignore--you are important to me. Love you all.
  Ephesians 5:3-4 "Let there be no sexual immorality, impurity, or greed among you. Such sins have no place among God's people.  Obscene stories, foolish talk, and coarse jokes -- theses are not for you.  Instead, let there be thankfulness to God."
    Wow!  Does this reach out to you?  It certainly does to me!!  Obscene stories and coarse jokes are so common that we begin to take them for granted.  Paul cautions, however, that improper language should have no place in the Christian's conversation because it does not reflect God's gracious presence in us.  If this is not present with you personally, just turn on tv or go to a moviel
  How can we praise God and remind others of his goodness when we are speaking coarsely?
    In Christ's Love and Grace
      Johnny

Who do you imitate? What do others see in you? Ephesians 5:1-2

Good morning everyone!  God is good all the time, all the time God is good. TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!
   So, my dear friend, how has your week, weekend, and days been going?  Trusting God for everything? What has been your stumbling block?  Anger, frustration, patience, just not satisfied?
   We all need to live in the light!  Ephesians 5:1-2 "Imitate God, therefore, in everything you do, because you are his dear children.  Live a life filled with love, following the example of Christ.  He loved us and offered himself as a sacrifice for us, a pleasing aroma to God."
   Wow!  Yep.....WOW!  Children imitate their parents, we should follow God's example.  We should imitate Jesus Christ!!  His great love for us led him to sacrifice himself so that we might live.  Our love for others should be of the same kind-----a love that goes beyond affection to self-sacrificing service.
   What have you sacrificed for Christ?  How difficult it is many times for us to lose our pride, our identity, and follow Christ.  My question to me and to you: "Do others see Jesus in you?"  Love you all.
    In Christ's Love and Grace
       Johnny

Bitterness and anger or tenderhearted and forgiving? Ephesians 4:30-32

Good morning everyone! God is good all the time, all the time God is good.  TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!
   Well?  If you read yesterday's study were you an encouragement to those who hear?  Or did you use abusive and foul language?  What was your scenario?   This is between you and God.  The rest of the chapter goes like this: Ephesians 4:30-32 " And do  not bring sorrow  to God's Holy Spirit by the way you live.  Remember, he has identified you as his own, guaranteeing that you will be saved on the day of redemption.  31 Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior. 32Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you."
   How are you acting? How are you living? As God wishes or as you wish?  You are His, you are saved, do not bring sorrow to God by your actions.  Just as you would not want a son or daughter to do something that would disgrace your family name.
   Have you gotten rid of the bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words and slander?  Have you gotten rid of your evil behavior?
   Are you, truly, tenderhearted, kind, forgiving and walk to be Christ-like?  God acted in love and sent HIS SON to die for your sins.....how are you repaying God for this act of redemption?  Love you all.
In Christ's Love and Grace
   Johnny

Are you an encouragement to others - Ephesians 4:27-28

Good morning all. God is good all the time, all the time God is good.  TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!!
   I love the Bible, God's word, and how HE opens up different passages for meaning at certain times in my life.  Do you feel this way?  A passage you may have read many times before, it is just a passage or verse in the Bible, then one day it LEAPS FORWARD and hits you right between the eyes.  The ones of us who need milk get milk, but when we are at the point of needing more, God gives us more.
   Ephesians 4:28-29 "If you are a thief, quit stealing. Instead, use your hands for good hard work, and then give generously to others in need.  28Don't use foul or abusive language.  Let everything you say be good and helpful, so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them."
    Paul warns us here about using unwholesome language, bitterness, misuse of anger, harsh words, slander, and bad attitudes toward others.  Very simple the first line, if you steal---quit it!  Instead of using your hands to take that which is not yours, use your hands to give to others in need.  Wow!  Would this ever make a difference!
    Verse 28 is the verse that has plagued me for years.  I hear this and it bothers me, I see how some treat others, anger-one to another: but then comes the time----do I join in to be part?  OR, do I remain silent?  OR, do I just leave?  OR, do I say something?
The correct answer is: Pray about it, follow what God tells you to do.  This is an area I have to pray about, how about you?  Is it okay for a group of men or a group of women, when by themselves, to be crass and use words and language that would grieve the Holy Spirit?  Is it okay when just you and your spouse (or a loved one) argue and use harsh words? How is your attitude in life? You input and prayers are appreciated.  Love you all.
  In Christ's Love and Grace
    Johnny