Jesus would say to me at the judgment seat.................Hebrews 5:8-9

Good morning all. God is good all the time, all the time God is good.  TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!
   If you read today's paper you may find historic events that happened on this day in 19??? or 20????. They are interesting to read and you will find good things and bad things.  Example: today was the day in 1927 that Babe Ruth hit his 60th home run setting a record that would stand for years. James Dean was killed in a 2 car crash in 1955 and James Meredith was the first black admitted to University of Mississippi, on his fourth try, in 1962.  Many other events happened on this day as well as these.
    But what if Jesus returned today and suddenly you were at the judgment seat and asked the question, "why should you be admitted to enter heaven."  What would your answer be?  
    Would your answer be that you were a good person, never cheated people, helped people, worked in the church, and gave generously of your time and resources?  And if so, what would Jesus say?  "Come on in good and faithful servant" OR "I never knew you?"

      Hebrews 5:8-9 (KJV) (3 translations to view)

⁸ Though he were a Son, yet learned he obedience by the things which he suffered;
⁹ And being made perfect, he became the author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey him;

     The eternal salvation we are offered means the elimination of a verdict on our sin. Judgment is set aside and we are awarded membership in God's family through Jesus Christ.  This is a change in our destiny, a spark of hope and we have overcome death through Jesus Christ.
    Salvation changes us from hell-bound to heaven-bound and we are to enter a life of discipleship for Jesus Christ.  Salvation is the reason you can smile in the morning and rest in the evening.  God loves you and you belong to him.
    Now, once again, my question to you: "what would Jesus say to you at the judgment seat if he returned today?"  Have you, do you, or will you share the word of your salvation; bringing others to Christ?  Do others see Jesus Christ in you?  Which "S" world are you in: secular or spiritual?
    What is your story?  If you have time, or even read this and want to share you story with me please do so.  Love you all, as you are Jesus' good and faithful servant.
    In Christ's Love and Grace 
        Johnny

The harvest is plenty - are you a good labourer? Matthew 9:37-38

Good morning everyone. God is good all the time,  all the time God is good.  TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!
   Yesterday I talked about the word "hurry" and after that a situation came up in my personal life.  I had an appointment, yet my neighbor needed help.  I really did not have the time, if I did help, I would have to then really hurry.  What I had read came back to me, I stopped, helped my neighbor, called my appointment and stated I would be late.  It all worked out, I helped the neighbor do a 20 minute job that took an hour, still made my appointment, and felt good about both.
    Two weeks before, a member of our church and I were talking and I asked how all was going.  He said well, but he did have a blow out on his bike tire and needed a new tire and tube.  We talked a few minutes, said I was sorry about his bike tire, then I left to get "my stuff" ready as I would be on the road for a week with my company.
    In my studies of the Bible and reading other books was when the verse in Matthew jumped out at me, convicted me, and I realized the big "I" had been in control of me.  "I" had to get "MY" stuff ready; I did not show the mercy or compassion necessary for my good friend who had the blow out.  This man is a member of our church and does not have much money.  In 30 minutes or less I could have taken him, bought him a new tire, and brought him back, fixed the bike, and helped my friend in need.

   Matthew 9:37-38 (KJV)

³⁷ Then saith he unto his disciples, The harvest truly is plenteous, but the labourers are few;
³⁸ Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he will send forth labourers into his harvest.

   The harvest is plenteous - the crop was in front of me - to help; as a labourer I did not stop to work.  I, now, plan to be one of the labourers sent forth into the harvest.  Is what you are doing or have planned THAT IMPORTANT that you cannot take a moment to do God's work?  To show God's mercy?  To walk like Jesus so others see Jesus in you? This sat heavy on my heart; that is why I stopped, helped my neighbor, then went on.  I did call my friend and apologize and asked for his forgiveness.  My burden was heavy, the LORD showed me how to lighten my burden.  If this all makes sense to you - praise God. If not, then you are probably a good labourer for the LORD! Love you all.
In Christ's Love and Grace
   Johnny

Does the word "HURRY" affect your life? Matthew 9:37

Good morning all. God is good all the time, all the time God is good.  TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!
   You have heard the expression: "the road to hell is paved with good intentions" I am sure.  Well, do you have your own section that says "this road adopted by {Johnny Holcomb [your name]}?"  I am certain that I do.
    Why do we not follow our intentions?  Two seminary professors did a study with a class of seminary students.  He asked them why there were there?  All of them had a variety of reasons, but a common answer was they were there to help people.  Then he did an experiment.  They did the study of Jesus' story about the Samaritan, priest and Levite and their response to the man who was beaten on the side of the road, robbed, and left with 1/2 of the class. The other half had a variety of topics.  Now, they were to prepare a short talk about their topic.
    After the study, he told 1/3 of the class they were to give a talk about the samaritan on the other side of the campus and they were late, so HURRY.  This put them in a "high hurry" mode. The next 1/3 were told they would arrive right on time, but needed to HURRY.  This put them in a "intermediate hurry" mode.  The last group were told they were early and to start moving that way. This was the "low hurry" group.
   The professors placed an actor in an alley, where the students would all see him on the way to give their talk,  and the actor was to groan, moan, be bent over, simulating the man on the road in Jesus' story.  Their hypothesis was the students who prepared the talk on the good Samaritan would stop and help. Many of these were the students in the "high hurry" group and the intermediate hurry group.  Only 10% of the students stopped to help, some even stepped over the man.  In the "LOW HURRY" group 63% of them stopped, some whose talk was about the good Samaritan, others about various topics.
    They found their hypothesis to be in error.  The key here was the word "HURRY."  Words like you are late, hurry, they have already started, etc. can turn a compassionate person to someone of indifferent to the suffering of others.  Quite interesting.
    Matthew 9:37 (KJV) ³⁷ Then saith he unto his disciples, The harvest truly is plenteous, but the labourers are few;
    Think about this as you go out today.  Will you let HURRY turn you from compassionate to indifferent?  I have, and last night I called and asked forgiveness from a friend I did this to.  May God constantly remind me.  Love you.
   In Christ's Love and Grace
     Johnny
 
   

Ask, Seek, Knock - Matthew 7:7,8

Good morning all! God is good all the time, all the time God is good.  TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!
  Well, this week, thus far, I have talked about being as Jesus or a Pharisee.  I never know daily where God will be leading me.  Today we are going to Matthew chapter 7, verses 7 & 8.  Where is your heart? Is Jesus really in your heart?  Or, do you provide lip service and evil still lurks deep within?
Just food for thought.  One moment I know Jesus is in my heart, then here comes a fleeting thought that is not from Jesus.  It becomes confusing sometimes and I wonder, am I really saved, born again, or am I just going about pretending.  Well, we must be persistent in seeking God.
  Click here to see 3 translations of Matthew 7:7,8  (KJV)⁷ Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: ⁸ For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.
 Ask!  Do you ask or demand?  Seek! Do you really seek or just expect?  Knock! Do you knock or expect it to be opened?   If you ask - ye shall receive; if you seek-ye shall find; and if you knock-it shall be opened!
    We must be persistent in pursuing God.  People often give up after a half hearted effort and then blame God.  Well, guess God didn't want me to .......  Knowing God takes faith, focus, and follow through and here Jesus reassures us that we will be rewarded.  It will be when you are ready and God knows the correct timing.  Continue to ask God for more knowledge, patience, wisdom, love and understanding.  God will give them to you.
    Some pastors say pray once, God knows, don't repeat.  My opinion, and my opinion only; you will have to conclude for yourself; but we are as our children.  When walking through the store with your small child they want lots of things, if you bought what they want on a whim they will play with it but for a moment and then it goes by the wayside.  BUT, if that child asks repeatedly for the same thing, then they are probably sincere about wanting it, do desire it, and will use it.
   Is this not the way we are, sometimes asking God on a whim, yet not really wanting it. The request is not heart felt, just something that crosses our mind. Yet, if we return to ask God again and again, will He not hear and heed our beckoning?  Yes, we do have to be cautious of becoming ritualistic in our requests; kind of like the Lord's prayer.  How many really know what the prayer means, but they just recite it from memory.  God's wants our sincere, earnest, heartfelt request.  Ask-receive; seek-find; knock-it opens!   Take time, pray sincerely. See what happens! Love you all.
In Christ's Love and Grace
   Johnny
 

Pharisee? Jesus? Judging? Hmmmm Matthew 7:1,2

Good morning all. God is good all the time, all the time God is good.  TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!
  Yesterday I talked about and asked are you a Pharisee or a Jesus?  Did you decide?  Which one do you walk like the most.
    Let me share a couple of scenarios and you decide which one you would be - Pharisee or Jesus!
A young lady comes into church, sits directly in front of you. She has her hair spiked and colored blue, her blouse is sleeveless and she has tattoos. Her shoes are tall clunky looking, but she does have on a nice skirt.  During the service, did you focus on her, why she was there, what is a person that dresses and looks like that doing in church; OR, did you focus on the pastor and the word of God?
    When service was over did you 'get away' quickly from this horrid creature, OR did you turn to her, welcome her, and engage in a conversation with no judging?
    Second scenario, a young girl comes into church, you are a greeter, her hair looks okay, clothes a little wrinkled but okay, all in all she looks okay and you welcome her and ask how she is.  She responds with "I have a massive hangover."  How do you respond?  Do you just greet and go; do you take the opportunity to 'teach a lesson' about drinking, or do you accept her and offer her some coffee and engage in a conversation with no judging?
   Tough situations, tough answers, uncomfortable positions to be in. WWPD or WWJD!  What Would Pharisees Do or What Would Jesus Do!  Jesus hung around with the "other element" the "unworthy element" and they could see His love was real.  Do others really see Jesus in you?
   At Church Under A Bridge, the younth have a slogan: "No walls, no doors, no judging!"  Wow!  This comes from our youth, where there is a cross section youth-from well off to poor- and this is the slogan they chose.
  Jesus speaks in Matthew 7:1,2 "Do not judge others, and you will not be judged. For you will be treated as you treat others. The standard you use in judging is the standard by which you will be judged."
    Examine your motives and your conduct; don't judge others.  It is easy to see the 'faults' in others, which may also be a fault we have, yet we excuse ours.   Sometimes our bad habits and behavior is what we want to change in others, but we see not our problem.  Judge yourself first, then lovingly go to your neighbor, forgive them and love them. (neighbor being ANYONE).
    Step out, engage in conversation with people who make you uncomfortable. Ask about their tattoo, their wild hair, outlandish dress, sagging pants fellow, anyone and see the masterpiece under the mud. (The mud may be in your eye first). Love you all
In Christ's Love and Grace
    Johnny

Pharisee or Jesus? Which are you? Luke 7:36-50

Good morning all. God is good all the time, all the time God is good.  TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!
   My lovely and God filled wife read a book, Mud and the Masterpiece, that her sister-in-law gave her, which my wife in turn gave me to read.  I have just started but it already has made an impact on me, where I am in my spiritual life, and my actions daily.
    Two couples are traveling the countryside together.  They stop in the middle of nowhere and view a house built in 1913, a centurion home.  This old home rests atop a hill which has a magnificent view.  The one couple states this would be a great place to buy, tear down the home, and build a beautiful modern home on that spot.
   The second couple, viewing the old home intently, could visualize what it once was, how it could be restored to the masterpiece it once was, and then be able to share its beauty with others.
   When you see people each day, do you see them as dirty, hateful, someone you would not want to be around, as the first couple saw the old home.  OR, do you see what they have the potential for and are willing to help restore that masterpiece to where Jesus sees it, like the second couple?
   Luke 7:36-50 is a link for the verse, worth your reading.  Jesus saw the masterpiece in others and set forth to uncover it.  How many times does your mouth say "pleased to meet you" and your eyes say otherwise.  How many times do your lips say "may I help you" but your eyes say different.  Have you uncovered YOUR MASTERPIECE yet.
    Are you as a Pharisee, do what you must, act as you think you should, and think you are walking like Jesus?  OR, are you daily stripping away the mud on the masterpiece God created you to be, and walking closer to Jesus?
   So much is flowing in my head, in my spirit, I will continue this thought tomorrow. Remember, Jesus hung around with sinners, tax collectors (cheats), ladies of question (prostitutes), and the like.   Why?

  In Christ's Love and Grace
    Johnny

Christ-centered ? Of the body? 1 John 2:19

Good morning all!  Good is good all the time, all the time God is good. TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!
   Yesterday I talked about a storm is a comin', meaning the anti-Christ's will become more and more and we need to be aware of them and what their goal is.  Many rise up in the church as "good members" and disagree with the pastor or someone in a leadership role.  They try to "water-down" the good news God has sent us and tell us something like, 'oh, that is not what it really means'.
     1 John 2:19 {this link has 3 translations} (KJV) ^19" They went out from us, but they were not of us; for if they had been of us, they would no doubt have continued with us: but they went out, that they might be made manifest that they were not all of us."
    The against Christ members  will try to take people away from the true word of God, AND, these people will not remain in the church.  These anti-Christs had been in the church, but they did not really belong to it.  Meaning, they were not true believers in Jesus Christ.   They joined the church for reasons others than salvation; maybe social status, family tradition, business contacts, maybe just a habit, or what ever else may spur them on.  But, they are not there to worship the only one and true God.
    What is your reason for being a Christian?  Is your reason Christ-centered?  If not, then you do not belong to the body of God!  If your reason is Christ-centered - then you are in the body of God, and should enjoy the fellowship of other Christians.  Meet and greet your brothers and sisters in Christ with words of encouragement and excitement.  Jesus is the answer, for the world today! (lines from Bill and Gloria Gather).  Love you all.
In Christ's Love and Grace
   Johnny

1 John 2: 18 A storm is a'comin'- are you ready?

Good morning all. God is good all the time, all the time God is good.  TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!
   Yesterday I talked about the passing away of this world and today a word of caution, a word of warning.  1 John 2:18 (Life App) Dear children, the last hour is here. You have heard that the Antichrist is coming and already many such antichrists have appeared. From this we know that the last hour has come. (KJV) Little children, it is the last hour; and as you have heard that the Antichrist is coming, even now many antichrists have come, by which we know that it is the last hour."
    Okay, let's look at the first part - little children- talking to you, to me, to us-Christians- and what? Telling us, or warning us the last hour is here.  Think of this as you are outside and a big storm is coming, your Father comes to the door and tells you that you only have a very short time to come inside to safety.  Will you obey?
   Then the Antichrist - he is coming and many have come.  Look at anti- which simply means against. Against what?  Anti-CHRIST - meaning against Christ.  The main antiChrist is coming- but we have seen many when looking back in the wake of civilization: Pharaoh, Pharisees, Madelyn Ohare, Hitler, Stalin, and many more.  
    Remember, an antiChrist is someone who teaches beliefs, values, doctrine that is "anti" to what the Bible says.  Some say the Bible was written by male chauvinists in the early centuries.  Maybe so, BUT, THE BIBLE IS THE INSPIRED WORD OF GOD!  So, if you don't believe what the Bible says is all true and relevant to you today, better hit your knees and talk to God; OR, realize that if you teach opposite the Bible YOU, then, my friend, would be considered an "anti-Christ".
   So, are you bathed or baptized in the living waters of salvation; or floundering in the physical water of the world?  Come my friend, let us walk in Paradise together. Love you all.
In Christ's Love and Grace
    Johnny
 

1 John 2:17 The world fades, God abides forever

Good morning all.  God is good all the time, all the time God is good.  TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!!
  Yesterday I visited about craving for what we see, achievements and possessions.  These being things of the world.  Let us view and visit about 1 John 2:17 today.
    "And this world is fading away, along with everything that people crave. But anyone who does what pleases God will live forever." (King James) "And the world is passing away, and the lust of it; but he who does the will of God abides forever."
  When we really want something, we don't thing that it will one day wear out or be gone. That nice new car, that house, four-wheelers, boats, and things of this sort.  Nope, we really don't think about one day it will be gone, we just want it.
   The one thing we should all really want that does not pass away is what Jesus Christ gave us from the cross - redemption, salvation, live everlasting.  His blood cleansed us, all we have to do is ask.
   With salvation comes a new life, but rest assured you will be under attack as satan has lost another when you accept Jesus.  However, continue to look up to your Father in Heaven, as he has prepared a place for you.  God will see you home.  My first home, car, and big boy toys are long gone, but my salvation from 38 years ago remains.  AND, it (salvation, walking with the LORD) is even better today than it was in 1975!!!  Thank you Jesus!
   Praise God for all you have gone through, all you have now, and all you will go through. Praise God continually, let not anger, stress, and regret darken your path, but the light of Jesus guide you and fill your heart.  Bill and Gloria Gathers song of Jesus, Jesus, Jeee-sus, sweetist name I know comes to mind. Love you all.
    In Christ's Love and Grace
       Johnny

The Jesus walk? Or walk of the world? 1 John 2:15, 16

Good morning all! God is good all the time, all the time God is good.  TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!!
   Well???? On you on the One Way street called "I", or on the expressway named "JESUS"?????  Hmmm!  Always a good question and good for soul searching.
   1 John 2:15, 16 "Do not love this world nor the things it offers you, for when you love the world, you do not have the love of the Father in you.  For the world offers only a craving for physical pleasure, a craving for everything we see, and pride in our achievements and possessions.  These are not from the Father, but are from this world."
   Wow!!  Does this not only speak to you, but hit you right between the eyes?  It does me.  How often do we get caught up in what the world has to offer, our own pleasures, and forget it is HE who give it all?
   Being part of the world is not just in the possessions we have, but it is also internal, inside us that may keep us part of the world.  We talk about the heart, and if the heart still lusts, yearns for, or covets the things of the world ---- there is not enough room in the heart for Jesus AND the world.
    How do you know if Jesus is in your heart or is it still the world?  If, when you see things of the world, and you crave to have "it" or you want everything you see, you covet and you are prideful in yourself for your accomplishments --- Jesus may not be there.  HE has been crowded out.  This is when satan says amen and you so oh-me.  So, what are you going to do about this if this is happening?
    First, knee mail.  God was the originator of the first text and wireless connection--so talk to him.  When I thank God for my job, when I praise HIS name for opening doors in my job, I have very good days; orders come in that I had no clue about.  When I walk the Johnny walk - things don't open up like they do when I do the Jesus walk.  Duh!  You would think be faithful daily, lest I forget; yet I do forget.  Just as the Israelites would forget and turn to false gods; this is what we must guard against.  If we go for the worldly things---we have created a false god, a Baal, an idol that does nothing for us.
   The choice is yours my friend.  Stay thirsty for the living water my friend. Love you all.
In Christ's Love and Grace
    Johnny

Which one-way street are you on? The "I" or the "JESUS CHRIST"?

Good morning everyone! God is good all the time, all the time God is good.  TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!
     Okay, today is a new day.  Last week was anniversary of 9/11 - when America, for a short period of time, all came together and acted totally united.  A tragedy occurs and suddenly we are patriotic, all of one accord - we should be this way daily.
    Next, as I travel and since I am one the road frequently I take time to notice the people as they drive.  Have you?  Also, I observe people at restaurants, shopping centers, grocery stores, etc. Everyone is traveling, at that time, with a one-way ticket, seeing nothing else except what they are headed for.  Whether it is to buy groceries, department store shopping, a new phone, a new cyber-space device, or whatever, they see nothing around them.
    Sitting at an intersection, waiting to merge into traffic, I put my window down and wave at the people as they are approaching and then pass.  Eight out of ten do not see anything to the right or the left, just what is ahead of them.  Do you live your life this way? Seeing only what is directly ahead?  Seeing nothing at any of the intersections of life?
   1 Corinthians 7:29-31 {Paul speaking} "But let me say this, dear brothers and sisters:  The time that remains is very short. So from now on, those with wives should not focus only on their marriage. Those who weep or who rejoice or who buy things should not be absorbed by their weeping or their joy or their possessions.  Those who use the things of the world should not become attached to them.  For this world as we know it will soon pass away." 
  Paul is urging us, all, to make the most of our time before Christ returns.  We should all have a sense of urgency about following Jesus, sharing the Good News, and get off our ONE-WAY STREET called "I"!
   As I wrote last week, what we DO is work to maintain life; what we ARE is - we ARE ministers who carry the word of Jesus Christ to others.  Those "wonderful worldly possessions" you have will grow old, rust, rot, but the word of JESUS will never grow old, rust or rot.  It creates growth, joy, and salvation. Which street are you on? ?  Love you all.
   In Christ's Love and Grace
     Johnny
 

Who we are versus what we do? Is there a difference?

Good morning everyone! God is good all the time, all the time God is good.  TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!
   Here is a question for you to ponder as I ramble on: What is the difference between what you are and what you do?   Think about this for a moment.  Ask yourself: "What I am is......." and then ask "What I do is......"
    What you do is.......work.  We work for what?  For money to pay our bills, keep us alive and the collectors away from the door.  When we do work, we should work as if we are working for the LORD and do the best possible in our job; whether it be sweeping the floor, building a building, or talking to people.  Do it as if Jesus were in person, standing right beside you.
    Proverbs12:11,13 "A hard worker has plenty of food, but a person who chases fantasies has not sense" & 13 "The wicked are trapped by their own words, but the godly escape such trouble."
   If we work hard, do our job, i.e. what we do-- we will be okay; however,  if we lie, cheat, manipulate then what we do will trap us.  Are you with me in thought?  Okay, hang on.  So what we do is work, be godly, and are surviving and living.
   Now, what we are-----what you are----what I am----is??????  We are missionaries who must carry the word to others in the world.  The little gem you cast forth from your mouth, the gem of your actions  will bring about fruit.  We are children of God.  Most children emulate one of their parents (or in broken homes a personal hero) and they begin to act like that person.  1 John 3:1 "See how very much our Father loves us, for he calls us his children, and that is what we are. But the people who belong to this world don't recognize that we are God's children because they don't know him." Are you truly emulating or acting like your Father in Heaven?
      So, looking at this verse, how important is it to be a missionary and emulate our Father, God, so others may see?  What are you?  YOU ARE:  a child of God, a missionary, a sharer of the Word, part of God's family.  Then what are you going to do about it?  Are you a "right Christian" who goes forth and shares the good news about his/her Father; or, a hibernating Christian not sharing.  Stand tall my friend, your father is king of kings and Lord of Lords.  Do others see Jesus Christ in you?
   In Christ's Love and Grace
     Johnny

al-Qaida is not the original terrorists - satan is! 2 Corinthians 6:7-10

Good morning all. God is good all the time, all the time God is good.  TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!
   HISTORY FOR YOU---On Sept. 11, 2001, al-Qaida terrorists hijacked four passenger jetliners in the United States. They flew two into the World Trade Center in New York City, causing the 110-story twin towers to collapse. Another plowed into the Pentagon and a fourth crashed in a field near Shanksville, Pa. In all, nearly 3,000 people were killed.
    2 CORINTHIANS 6:7-10  "We faithfully preach the truth. God's power is working in us.  We use the weapons of righteousness in the right hand for attack and the left hand for defense. We serve God whether people honor us or despise us, whether they slander us or praise us. We are honest, but they call us impostors. We are ignored, even though we are well known.  We live close to death, but we are still alive. We have been beaten, but we have not been killed.  Our hearts ache, but we always have joy. We are poor, but we give spiritual riches to others. We own nothing, and yet we have everything."
 People tend to hate the good, the powerful, the winners.  Look around - lots of people do not like the NY Yankees---because they win; the Lakers---because they win; the Cowboys(???)---because they used to win. lol  
    Well, people do not like the USA, because we are winners, we are powerful, AND we have been in the past---A STRONG CHRISTIAN NATION!!  al-Qaida attacked us in our home land.  Well, you, as a Christian have been attacked in your home land, the family of God, has been under attack since Adam and Eve.  Who is winning?  I gave you statistics yesterday---the enemy in closing in, and closing in fast!  Why?  Because satan knows the end is getting closer and closer.  He has read the Bible, he knows the story, but he thinks he can change the end.  Are you prepared for the fight?  Or are you playing ostrich and putting your head in the sand?
    Try encountering at least 3 people today and do one of the following: 1) invite them to church; 2) tell them about Jesus; 3) ask if they are a Christian and know Jesus; 4) share a spiritual/Christian story with them.   You will share the new shampoo, laundry detergent, new weight loss, new department store with others which gains you nothing.  But sharing the love of Jesus gains you everything - on your way to everlasting life.  Going back to Bob the Builder - can you do it --- YES YOU CAN!
  Re-read the verses and the underlined parts.  Can you relate?  We are here for 1 purpose -- to please God!  Are you?  Love you all.
In Christ's Love and Grace
   Johnny

A prisoner of illusion! 2 Corinthians 6:4-7

Good morning all. God is good all the time, all the time God is good.  TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!
   Where are you today?  Are you in prison?  Paul was.  What did Paul do while in prison?  He continued to praise God, share the word, and did not become discouraged.
   You are in a prison today, you just have not realized it yet.  Look around you, what percentage of your friends and acquaintances attend church?  Then, what percentage of that group are truly CHRISTIANS?
   When I say truly Christians not just sayers of the word, but doers of the word! 84% of the world's population has faith- of that 32% Christian (2.2 B) 23% Muslim (1.6B).  In Texas 53% identify with a Christian religion and Texas is the 14th most Christian state in America.  In America 78% identify themselves as Christians, and 16% as unaffiliated.  Are we in prison? I say yes!
   We are a prisoner of illusion with satan being the keeper of the key.  Illusion means to mock, a false idea or misconception, a misleading.  So, are we in a prison. I say yes!! A resounding YES!  We think because we say and do the right things we are Christian.  IS JESUS IN YOUR HEART?  This is the true lie detector.  Listen to what Paul says.
  2 Corinthians 6:4-7 "In everything we do, we show that we are true ministers of God. We patiently endure troubles and hardships and calamities of every kind. We have been beaten, been put in prison, faced angry mobs, worked to exhaustion, endured sleepless nights, and gone without food.  We prove ourselves by our purity, our understanding, our patience, our kindness, by the Holy Spirit within us, and by our sincere love.  We faithfully preach the truth. God's power is working in us. We use the weapons of righteousness in the right hand for attack and the left hand for defense."
     Think about this my friend. Where are you?  Love you all.
In Christ's Love and Grace
   Johnny

You are a minister, how do you live? 2 Corinthians 3,4

GOOD MORNING ALL!  God is good all the time, all the time God is good.  TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!
    Have you felt God's presence lately?  Or felt God leading you in a different direction than you thought you should be going?  Well, this happened to me today.  I was reading  some verses and thought that was my Bible study when suddenly another verse jumped out, and seemed to leap off the page at me.
   2 Corinthians 6:3 "We live in such a way that no one will stumble because of us, and no one will find fault with our ministry."
    Paul, in everything he did,  considered what his actions communicated about Jesus Christ.  You, as a believer, are a minister of God.  You may not wear the cloth, but you are a minister.  Throughout your day the unbelievers around you will be observing you.  Any careless or undisciplined act may be the excuse for someone to reject Christianity. Why? Because of your actions.  Wow!
   2 Corinthians 6:4 "In everything we do, we show that we are true ministers of God. We patiently endure troubles and hardships and calamities of every kind."
     In all you do, you must endure, praise God, and show that you are a true minister of God.  At our church, Church Under A Bridge, Tyler - people ask who we are affiliated with.  My response is: JESUS CHRIST.  Then I get what denomination? My response: Christian, JESUS CHRIST is our leader, our salvation, our path to life eternal.
    Do you live in a way that others will want to be like you?  What denomination do you belong to?
As Bill and Gloria Gather's song: "Jesus is the answer, for the world today." Love you all.
   In Christ's Love and Grace
     Johnny

Take your riches with you!

Good morning all. God is good all the time, all the time God is good.  TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!
   Well, this week we have studied about older men being of wisdom, self-control, and respect; and women to be teachers to the younger women and live in a way that honors God.
    Soooo, if we do this can we gather riches to take to heaven.  My answer is YES!  Now, you are probably saying - huh? - you cannot take your riches with you to heaven.  Oh, but YES we can.  The riches I am visiting about are not the riches of the world - BUT - the riches not of the world.
    Okay, so what are you talking about now? Dude!  Well, we know from Romans 11:33 "Oh, how great are God's riches and wisdom and knowledge! .........."   God's wisdom, knowledge and riches are great!  Get that??
    2 Corinthians 6:10 "Our hearts ache, but we always have joy. We are poor, but we give SPIRITUAL RICHES to others.  We own nothing, and yet we have everything."
    Okay God's riches, wisdom and knowledge are great and what we pray to acquire;  but then look - we give SPIRITUAL RICHES to others.  These are the riches I am talking about.  We can take this with us when we go.  When we stand at the Bema seat your name will be called out and you will see the riches you brought to heaven.  You will have planted a "rich seed" somewhere that sprouted and flourished.
   Then, hopefully you will hear: "Well done, my good and faithful servant........let's celebrate together!" Matthew 25:23  Would this be absolutely awesome?!?!  So, what I am saying are the riches of "the world" with rot, wear out, weather and go away; but the riches not of this world (spiritual) will last forever.  Amen.  Love you all.
    In Christ's Love and Grace
      Johnny

Woman, what kind of example are you? Titus 2:3

Good morning everyone! God is good all the time, all the time God is good.  TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!
   Yesterday the study was about the older men, their walk, and teaching the younger.  Today, Titus 2:3 "Similarly, teach the older women to live in a way that honors God.  They must not slander others or be heavy drinkers.  Instead, they should teach others what is good."
     Wow, can you say that is a mouth full?  The older women who had been Christians for some time were to teach the new Christian women how to have harmony in the homes.  Do we have this same need today?  Young wives and mothers should learn to live in a Christian manner, loving their husbands and caring for their children.  They can accomplish this by observing exceptional women of God.
    If you are in a position, or at an age where people may look up to you, you need to make sure your example is motivating younger believers to live in a way that honors God.  Uh, no, not the Miley Cyrus look and behavior, but one that would honor God.
      We should not be old men sitting talkin about the weather and old women talkin about old men.  We, ALL, should be walking and talking in a Christ like manner.  Are you?  Love you all.
In Christ's Love and Grace
     Johnny

Are you the person of Titus 2:2?

Good morning everyone! God is good all the time, all the time God is good.  TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!!!!
    What a great day to be alive and living for JESUS! If you cannot say that, you may need to have an attitude check.  Titus 2:2 "TEACH THE OLDER MEN TO EXERCISE SELF-CONTROL, TO BE WORTHY OF RESPECT, AND TO LIVE WISELY. THEY MUST HAVE SOUND FAITH AND BE FILLED WITH LOVE AND PATIENCE."
    Notice what this says, TEACH, teach-- the older men.  Because you are older does not mean you are wise.  And as older men what must we do?  Exercise self-control; be worthy of respect, live wisely, have sound faith and be filled with WHAT??????????  LOVE and PATIENCE!!!!
    People of all ages in the church is good; it brings about the potential for problems as well.  Many young people see what is directly ahead; they don't see around them or the consequences of their actions.  This is where as we grow older we must grow in the LORD and become the elder statesman that others can go to with problems.  Older men does not necessary mean old man living high on the mountain of whom you need to gain an audience.  An older man may mean 30's, 40's, as well as seniors.
     However, in saying all this, the older generation must teach the younger generation by words and BY EXAMPLE!  The old saying of do as I say don't do as I do does not hold water.  The young will emulate the older. Don't curse or drink by words - then when the young sees the older do it - guess what they will be doing?  There is a country song about this and the dad asks the boy where he learned to do that; the boys answer from you dad, I am your buckaroo.  Think about this for a moment.
     We live in a diverse world and through God's wisdom we can bring souls to Christ. Every culture has a slightly different twist and outlook. The white's say: I-ght for all right; blacks ax for ask; asians have trouble with l's & r's- the donut is grazed instead of glazed.  Soooo?  If we have love and paitence coupled with the wisdom God gives us who cares?  My job, your job, is to win souls for Christ for the glory of God.  Can you do it?  Will you tell at least one person about Christ today?  If so, let me hear from you. Love you all.
In Christ's Love and Grace
   Johnny

What type of living do you promote? Titus 2:1

Good morning all. God is good all the time, all the time God is good.  TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!!!
   How often I write both of the sentences above and how often do I forget! Take time to put true meaning to the words projected either orally, mentally, or in text.
   Titus 2:1 "As for you, Titus, promote the kind of living that reflects wholesome teaching."
There is an emphasis on wholesome teaching in Paul's instructions to Titus.  How can you recognize  wholesome teaching?  When a teaching is sound, good and solid, it will combine correct knowledge and understanding with consistent practice. 
    It must be found in the BIBLE, keep Jesus Christ central, result in consistently good behavior and actions, and promote spiritual health in ourselves and others.
    We, the believers, the children of God, must be grounded in the truths of the Bible so they won't be swayed by the powerful preaching of false teachers (anti-christ's).  Be strong and not swayed by devastation of tragic circumstances or a pull on our emotions.
    We, as disciples of Christ, must challenge people to understand sound doctrine, learn the Bible, study and apply biblical principles and LIVE WHAT YOU LEARN!
   QUESTION:  When others see you do they say, wow, I want what he/she has?  OR, do they say did you see that, and he/she professes to be a Christian?  Titus 2:1 "as for you (your name)....promote the kind of living that reflects wholesome teaching."  Love you all.
    In Christ's Love and Grace
      Johnny