Grafted - nourished by faith Romans 11:11-32

Good morning all!  God is good all the time, all the time God is good.  TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!!!!
    Who are you?  Exactly WHO ARE YOU?  Do you consider yourself white, Caucasian, black, African American, Mexican, Latino, Hispanic, Asian, etc.  Who are you?  You (most of us) are Gentiles from the ancient world.  Do you know what that means?  It means, in today's language you are an infidel!   What is an infidel?  Webster says: 1-one who does not believe in a particular religion, or 2-one who has no religion.
    So in ancient times you would be an infidel - why?  Because you believed in Baal, Ashrah Poles, Mythical Gods, etc.  But guess what happened?
     G R A F T!!!  Huh, graft, what do you mean?  Well, graft has several meaning:  1-the dishonest use of one's position to gain money, i.e. as in politics, anything so gained; 2-the transplanting of bone, skin, etc.; or, 3-(most important) A SHOOT OR BUD OF ONE PLANT OR TREE INSERTED INTO ANOTHER, WHERE IT GROW PERMANENTLY!! 
   Okay, Johnny, where are you going?  Is it too early and you can't think?  Well, look at Romans 11:11-32 (to read the whole section click the link).  So, what is happening?  Yes, I want the short version.
   Okay, in short, Paul is writing from Corinth to the people in Rome.  What he is telling them is this.  They are God's chosen people, the Jews, yet through all they and God have gone through they (Jews) continually turn their back on God.  Again, and again, and again. So Paul is telling that because of this, Jesus came and now you and I, gentiles, infidels, are now GRAFTED into the body of Christ.
   Some of the branches, Jews, have been broken off, and other wild branches, Gentiles, have been grafted onto the tree, to live and be nourished through the sap of the tree.  How they will grow, and the broken off branches will wither.  Paul tells us they do not support the root; the root supports the branch. Hmm!
    Paul talks about arrogance of the Jews, thinking they are the better people, but how they will be broken off and cast away because of their faith.  The gentiles will be grafted because of their faith and they will flourish.   A good text, please click and read.  May it touch your heart the way it touched mine.  Love you all.

In Christ's Love and Grace
   Johnny

rumors, gossip, pride, work, wealth, non-listening, and your spirit?

Good morning everyone! God is good all the time, all the time God is good.  TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!!!
     While reading this morning I came across this scripture and we all have probably read it many times.  However, I ask that you slow down, take your time, and there are only 8 verses, take 30 seconds to a minute to ponder on each on.  See where it leads you.  Love you all.

Proverbs 18:7-14King James Version (KJV)

⁷ A fool's mouth is his destruction, and his lips are the snare of his soul.
⁸ The words of a talebearer are as wounds, and they go down into the innermost parts of the belly.
⁹ He also that is slothful in his work is brother to him that is a great waster.
¹⁰ The name of the Lord is a strong tower: the righteous runneth into it, and is safe.
¹¹ The rich man's wealth is his strong city, and as an high wall in his own conceit.
¹² Before destruction the heart of man is haughty, and before honour is humility.
¹³ He that answereth a matter before he heareth it, it is folly and shame unto him.
¹⁴ The spirit of a man will sustain his infirmity; but a wounded spirit who can bear?

Proverbs 18:7-14New International Version (NIV)

⁷ The mouths of fools are their undoing, and their lips are a snare to their very lives.

⁸ The words of a gossip are like choice morsels; they go down to the inmost parts.

⁹ One who is slack in his work is brother to one who destroys.

¹⁰ The name of the Lord is a fortified tower; the righteous run to it and are safe.

¹¹ The wealth of the rich is their fortified city; they imagine it a wall too high to scale.

¹² Before a downfall the heart is haughty, but humility comes before honor.

¹³ To answer before listening— that is folly and shame.

¹⁴ The human spirit can endure in sickness, but a crushed spirit who can bear?

Do you see the rumors, gossip, pride, work, wealth, non-listening, and your spirit?  If this reaches you and touches your heart, mind, and soul - please let me know.  It really spoke to me.
In Christ's Love and Grace
   Johnny

Satisfied, proud, forgot God?

Good morning all. God is good all the time, all the time God is good.  TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!!!
    Friday I talked about a famine in this land.  A famine for the spiritual word of God!  In America, we live well, better than most nations, therefore we become complacent.   Why?  When all is going well, it is through our own doing; but, when things go poorly - then- we ask God why.  Do we not need to ask God for guidance in everything we do?
   Hosea 13:  ⁴ Yet I am the Lord thy God from the land of Egypt, and thou shalt know no god but me: for there is no saviour beside me.
⁵ I did know thee in the wilderness, in the land of great drought.
⁶ According to their pasture, so were they filled; they were filled, and their heart was exalted; therefore have they forgotten me.
    God is telling the people what?  First: no god before God.    Second: God was with you in the rough times (wilderness).  And then what?  Because they went to the land of milk and honey they were filled, satisfied, and forgot God.  Look at the NIV version:
    ⁴ “But I have been the Lord your God ever since you came out of Egypt.
You shall acknowledge no God but me,  no Savior except me.
⁵ I cared for you in the wilderness,  in the land of burning heat.
⁶ When I fed them, they were satisfied;  when they were satisfied, they became proud;   
 then they forgot me.
     When we get all we think we need and feel self-sufficient, then we tend to turn our back on God and think we are self made, we did it ourselves.  We need to learn to rely on God through the good times as well as when we are wandering in the wilderness.  If your path is smooth now, stay in close fellowship with God as satan is not happy and will be attacking you, wanting you to turn your back on God. 
  Deuteronomy 8:14 "Do not become proud at that time and forget the LORD your God, who rescued you from slavery in the land of Egypt."   Or, we could say: "who rescued you from sin in your home land."
    Where are you today?  Okay, on your own, doing well?  OR - relying on God fully - in minor decisions as well as major decisions.   Love you all. May God be your guiding light each day, each hour, each minute, each second.
   In Christ's Love and Grace
     Johnny
 

FAMINE in our land!! It is serious! Judges 21:25; Ruth 1:1

Good morning everyone! God is good all the time, all the time God is good.  TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!!!
     So, are you fruit-FUL or fruit-LESS?   Did you think about this?  Well, here is something else God opened my eyes and heart to.   A    "FAMINE"!!!!
   What do you mean famine?  There is a famine in the whole world, not just third world countries who are physically starving to death.  I am talking about a SPIRITUAL FAMINE.  This is what God gave me yesterday.
    Look at Judges 21:25 "In those days there was no king of Israel: every man did that which was right in his own eyes."  Ruth 1:1Now it came to pass in the days when the judges ruled, that there was a famine in the land, ........."
     First, during the time of the judges, the people of Israel experienced trouble because everyone became his own authority and acted on his own opinions of right and wrong.  Wow!  Does this sound like today?  The difference is today we call it "political correctness" and we do what "we think" is right.  When people selfishly satisfy their personal desires at all costs, everyone pays the price.
   Same sex marriage, abortion, legalize drugs, and....and....well just search the news for a couple of days.
We should be obedient and submit all our plans, ideas, thoughts, actions to God; but, do we?  We, Christians, go into battle each and every day against the sinful world; but here is the question - Do you have your armor of God on and in place?
   Next, Ruth - there was a famine in the land!   These people were starving to death, a drought caused the crops to produce little or dry up completely.  The people were hungry.  We have this today, and I am not talking about third world countries.  The people today are starving spiritually.  What?  Why do you say this?
    Look around, how many people are looking for something to make them feel better, move them out of the situation they are in, anything that will make their life more bearable.  Alcohol or drugs is a temporary relief; a pot of gold (quick cash) is a temporary relief; a better car, a nicer home, a better spouse, better children, better boss, better paid, and on and on.  All this is for naught!! 
   America, the world, is starving for Jesus Christ.  The big tendency in America today is to do what "I" think is right, be a good person, and it is okay.  NO!!  To abort this famine we need to feed on the words of the Bible.  We need to be fed spiritually - open your Bible. Read it!  If your Bible has dust on it shame on you----if your Bible has loped corners, torn pages, and writing in it - good - you must be using it!
   The big relief, the great escape is JESUS CHRIST and living for God.  Will life change?  Maybe, but when you, when I, start living for God, for Jesus Christ, and follow the Good News - called obedient- things will begin to change.
   Feast or Famine!  Which fits you?  Feast on the Word of God. Love you all.
In Christ's Love and Grace
   Johnny

Fruit-full OR fruit-less? Matthew 21:19

Good morning all. God is good all the time, all the time God is good.  TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!!!
   Is RELIGION empty?  Do you desire religion or salvation?  Hmmm!!!  To me, Johnny Holcomb, there is a difference.  A person may be religious but not a Christian.  Whereas, a Christian is one who accepts Jesus Christ as his/her LORD and SAVIOUR!!  That is my difference!!  Do you make a distinction?
    Matthew 21:19 "....AND HE NOTICED A FIG TREE BESIDE THE ROAD.  HE WENT OVER TO SEE IF THERE WERE ANY FIGS, BUT THERE WERE ONLY LEAVES.  THEN HE SAID TO IT, 'MAY YOU NEVER BEAR FRUIT AGAIN!' AND IMMEDIATELY THE FIG TREE WITHERED UP."
    What is going on here?  Is Jesus mad at the tree?  No, Jesus is telling us a parable.  Huh??  Yes, and here it is.  Jesus was showing his anger at 'religion' without substance.   Just as the fig tree looked good from a distance but was fruitless on close examination, so the Temple looked impressive at first glance, but its sacrifices and other activities were hollow because they were not done to worship God sincerely.
    If you only appear to have faith without putting it to work in your life, you are like the fig tree that withered and died because it bore no fruit.  How many people do you know that look good at a distance, yet are harboring a horror story inside?   Is this you?
   True faith means bearing fruit for God's Kingdom.  So, are you fruitful or fruitless?  Love you all.
In Christ's Love and Grace
    Johnny

Suffering helps us become strong--Romans 5:1-5

Good morning all. God is good all the time, all the time God is good.  TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!!
   Today, in my Bible reading and study I came across Romans 5:1-5 which reached out and touched me, and, I pray it may bring light to you as well.
   5 Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our LORD Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand.  And we rejoice in the hope of the glory of God.  Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character, and character, hope.  And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us."
   Okay, break it on down now--you are a sinner, but, you are justified through _________.  Because of this we have _________ with God and why?  Because of our LORD __________    ___________.
Through Him we have access by ________ and through _______ we now stand.  WE HAVE HOPE!!
   Will we suffer?  Yes!  Why?  Look at what our suffering brings - perseverance, and through perseverance comes character, and through character come hope.  And what about hope?
   Hope does not disappoint us and because................  because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us.
  Paul is telling us that as sinners we are condemned, HOWEVER, since God sent Jesus to die for our sins we have entered into a place of undeserved privilege.  Through Jesus, God has declared us not guilty and has drawn us closer to Him.  As the praise song says: "I am a friend of God, He calls me friend."
  Fill in the words above and think about where you are, what you have, and who provided this for you! Love you all.
   In Christ's Love and Grace
     Johnny

Will youmake a difference? Colossians 4:5

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

  I have something that has been on my heart yesterday and today I woke with it as well. MAKING A DIFFERENCE!!

   Let me first begin with the story of a starfish:

    

There was a young man walking down a deserted beach just before dawn, in the distance he saw a frail old man.

As he approached the old man, he saw him picking up stranded starfish and throwing them back into the sea.

The young man gazed in wonder as the old man again and again threw the small starfish from the sand to the water.

He asked, “Old man, why do you spend so much energy doing what seems to be a waster of time?”

The old man explained that the stranded starfish would die if left in the morning sun.

“But there must be thousands of beaches and millions of starfish!” exclaimed the young man. “How can you make any difference?”

The old man looked at the small starfish in his hand and as he threw it to the safety of the sea, he said, “ It makes a difference to this one!”

Author Unknown          .......I MAKE A DIFFERENCE!!

Colossians 4: "⁵ Walk in wisdom toward them that are without, redeeming the time. Let your speech be always with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man."
    Walk in wisdom - what is this?  It is accepting Jesus and walking with Jesus.
Toward them that are without - talking about people who have not accepted Jesus.
Redeeming the time - use this time wisely, sharing the gospel, telling others.
Let your speech be always with grace -   share in love and with kindness, not harsh and threatening.
Seasoned with salt - let God give you the words that are tasteful and palatable to the listener.
That ye may know how ye ought to answer every man - wisdom, discernment from God so your words will pierce the calloused armor to whom you are speaking.
   Question:   Will you make a difference today?  Tomorrow?  Love you all.
In Christ's Love and Grace
    Johnny

 

Why do you hang on to the past? Philippians 3:13,14

Good morning all. God is good all the time, all the time God is good.  TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!!
  Yesterday, at church, pastor went to Philippians Chapter 3 verses 13 and 14.  How many times have I read this, yet it went straight through my whole, whereas, this time it pierced my being and my consciousness and made me more aware.  Why?  Hmmmm.
   Philippians 3:¹³ Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before,
   Paul is saying forget what has happened in the past, look forward, look to the future, see what is ahead.  Graffiti in a restroom in Durango, Colorado said: "Look not back at the past with regret, nor to the future with anxiety, but look around and be aware of the present."  
   Paul held the coats of those who stone Stephen, the first martyr for Christ.  We all have done things we would not tell of and rather keep them in our closet of skeletons as we are ashamed.  Since Jesus Christ is our hope we can get past our guilt and move on the doing things for God.
    We should grow in God.  How?  By studying His Word more, by fellowship and discussions with other Christians, and by sharing the word of God to others.
    We need to press on, knowing the Holy Spirit will lead, will reveal and fill in any blank spots we may have in our quest to be more Christ like.
    ¹⁴ I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.
 Press on, we should be as an athlete preparing for the Olympics. we need to FOCUS on God word; we need to TRAIN our selves daily in the word; we need to STRIVE to be Christ-like in each moment of our day,  we need to be OBEDIENT to God word, and we need to live a life of FAITH.
   So, fellow sinner, what are you going to do about your life with Christ?  Train hard or be mediocre?  Love you all.
   In Christ's Love and Grace
    Johnny
 

Evil & evildoers are alive and well. Proverbs 17:11

Good morning all.  God is good all the time, all the time God is good.  TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!!!
   Just a side note, I am working in the DFW area today and it is raining cats and dogs outside.  The animal control people are going crazy.  Wow!!

   Okay, seriously,  Proverbs 17: KJV ¹¹ An evil man seeketh only rebellion: therefore a cruel messenger shall be sent against him.  In NIV ¹¹ Evildoers foster rebellion against God;
    the messenger of death will be sent against them.

   What is evil?  According to Webster evil is morally bad or causing harm or injury to someone. Webster goes on to say "evil" is sinful and wicked. So, let us read KJV again.  "A morally bad man, sinful, wicked, who is seeking to cause harm or injury to someone" - Hmmm?  And then what?

   A "cruel" messenger will be sent against him.  If you read this in the NIV, it says the messenger of death will be sent against them.  So what is cruel.  Cruel is an adjective —used to describe people who hurt others and do not feel sorry about it: causing or helping to cause suffering : terrible and unfair.

    So, could you say a man who is morally bad, causing harm or injury to someone, who is sinful and wicked will encounter a person who hurts others with no remorse, who is terrible and unfair and enjoys causing suffering?  Sounds bad!

    Who is evil?  People who have not accepted Jesus Christ as their Lord and Saviour.  No - I don't believe that!  You mean all  the good people who do good things for others and humanity will see the evildoer?  If that "good" or "really good" person has not accepted Jesus as Saviour, then he/she has set his/her destiny and WILL ENCOUNTER THIS EVIL AND WICKED PERSON.

   I don't believe that some will say.   I will not argue the point, only refer him/her to the Bible and to study God's work.  What does it say?  You be the judge, and if you think my study is wrong please entertain me with your counters.  Love you all.

  In Christ's Love and Grace

    Johnny

 

Strife and quarrels or peace with God!

Good morning all. God is good all the time, all the time God is good.  TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!!
   Today, when you venture into the events of life I would ask you to think about this one verse from Proverbs 17:14   I will list it in KJ, NIV,  New KJ and Life Application.  Excellent food for thought.
   
¹⁴ The beginning of strife is as when one letteth out water: therefore leave off contention, before it be meddled with.
King James Version (KJV)

¹⁴ Starting a quarrel is like breaching a dam;
    so drop the matter before a dispute breaks out.

New International Version (NIV)

¹⁴ The beginning of strife is like releasing water;
Therefore stop contention before a quarrel starts.

New King James Version (NKJV)

     ¹⁴  Starting a quarrel is like opening a floodgate, so stop before a despute breaks out..

  Life Application Version (NKJV)
     
   I am sure you know people like this.  They enjoy getting things stirred up, causing strife among others, provoking others.  Is this not folly?  Is this not contentious to the LORD? Why would one wish to do such a thing - provoking others to anger - for no reason.
  Ever meet people like this?  Sure you have, and, probably, they are not a close friend of yours.  Should we avoid such a disruptive and mean spirited person?  Not at all, first---pray for them.
   Look at James 5 - and pray with an effectual fervent prayer.  This will change everything. Do not let it be a pray of frivality, like, oh LORD, you know ole Joe is a bad sort, I just ask you help him.  NO, NO, NO!  Cast it all out before God - LORD, let me have your undivided attention - I come with a heavy burden - and then fervently, strongly, with conviction, with emotion tell God about ole Joe.
   God already knows about ole Joe, but HE will hear your petition and, if it be in HIS will, HE will change ole Joe.  Don't bring up an argument, pray for ones who do, and be diligent in your prayer time.  Reap God's reward.  Love you all.
In Christ's Love and Grace
   Johnny

When the heat comes----worthless or worthy? Proverbs 17:1-3

Good morning all. God is good all the time, all the time God is good.  TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!
   Proverbs 17:  Let us view the first 3 verses.  1 Better a dry crust eaten in peace than a house filled with feasting and conflict.  
   Wow!  Is this ever the truth.  Ever been around where someone is never, never happy.  Always finding fault with something - the toast is too dark, the eggs are cooked wrong, the house is not clean enough, the garage needs tending to, the people at the store, the people at church, and on and on.  Yes, tis better to nipple on a dry crust, as a mouse would, in total peace than with a person or persons who constantly complain.
   2 A wise servant will rule over the master's disgraceful son and will share the inheritance of the master's children.
   This verse is talking about faithfulness.  Faithfulness will allow a man to rise from servitude to the status of sonship.  Are you faithful to God?  Are you rising in sonship?
   3. Fire tests the purity of silver and gold, but the LORD tests the heart.
       Whoa friend!!  It take intense heat to purify gold and silver.  Sometimes it often takes the heat of trials for the Christian to be purified.  Through trials, God shows us what is in us and clears out anything that gets in the way of complete trust in him.
  1 Peter 1:7 "These trials will show that your faith is genuine.  It is being tested as fire tests and purifies gold - though your faith is far more precious than mere gold."
   When tough times come your way, realize that God wants to use them to refine your faith and purify your heart.  Remember, refinement, or when the heat comes it does separate the good from the worthless.  Think about this.  From you recent actions----which side would you fall on?  Love you all.  Love your neighbor as yourself.
In Christ's Love and Grace
  Johnny

Harmful path or helpful path? Trusting God or yourself?

Good morning all. God is good all the time, all the time God is good.  TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!!!
   Many people have looked for the fountain of youth.  Searching, study, research, yet it is not where to be found.  Unfortunately, for the many who searched or believed in a fountain of youth - they were looking in the wrong place.
   You, I, We---we have found the fountain of youth.  That is a belief in God's son Jesus Christ.  Once we grow and live to the end of our life we will find the fountain of youth by a different name.  It's name is HEAVEN, and we will be united with God, our creator.  Listen to what Proverbs 16:28-33 says:

                    Proverbs 16:28-33King James Version (KJV)²⁸ A froward man soweth strife: and a whisperer separateth chief friends.
²⁹ A violent man enticeth his neighbour, and leadeth him into the way that is not good.
³⁰ He shutteth his eyes to devise froward things: moving his lips he bringeth evil to pass.
³¹ The hoary head is a crown of glory, if it be found in the way of righteousness.
³² He that is slow to anger is better than the mighty; and he that ruleth his spirit than he that taketh a city.
³³ The lot is cast into the lap; but the whole disposing thereof is of the Lord.

                        Proverbs 16:28-33New International Version (NIV)

²⁸ A perverse person stirs up conflict,
    and a gossip separates close friends.   Do you know any "drama queens"?

²⁹ A violent person entices their neighbor
    and leads them down a path that is not good.   Know someone who leads away from God?

³⁰ Whoever winks with their eye is plotting perversity;
    whoever purses their lips is bent on evil.       I had always heard this, well, she just pursed her lips and away she went.  Hmmm!  Also, in years past - a wink from one gender to another was flirting and........

³¹ Gray hair is a crown of splendor;
    it is attained in the way of righteousness.  In ancient days, a long life was a sign of God's blessing - so - gray hair and old age were good.

³² Better a patient person than a warrior,
    one with self-control than one who takes a city.   Self-control is greater than conquering.  One who loses control can ruin much or cause much hurt.

³³ The lot is cast into the lap,
    but its every decision is from the Lord.  Here you are, turn to the LORD in your decisions and trust in God!!

   Take time to think about these verses today.  They were quite meaningful to me when I read them this morning.  Love you all.

In Christ's Love and Grace

   Johnny

 

New International Version (NIV)

They did evil in the eyes of the Lord, and He...........

Good morning all.  God is good all the time, all the time God is good.  TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!!
   If you will read in the Old Testament, so many wars, defeats, killings, and for what.  Man!!  Man's pride tells him he needs to be the best, control, rule over many, have many things-material things.  As Adrian Rogers said we try to keep up with the "Jones'" when we don't even like them.  We want a better house, better car, better clothes, better position in life and we hock all we have to do this.  Then the "Jones'" refinance and the 'war effort' begins again.
   In the Old Testament power meant controlling others, ruling over many lands, having livestock, gold, silver and ---unfortunately---many worshiped 'gods'; not GOD!
   Read in Kings and you will see something like this: "he did evil in the eyes of the LORD" and " "he did not turn away from the sins of ...... which he causes Israel to commit" and another item stuck out to me.  "The high places, however, were not removed; the people continued to offer sacrifices and burn incenses there."
   God did not bless this disobedience.  Many times rulers rose and fell in Israel, Judah, and others where they fell away from God, OR, they compromised and have a temple for worship to GOD, PLUS idols, and worship to false gods.  Does this ring of America?  Do you see us leaving God out of what we do?  And why?  Because you and I do nothing but complain to each other.  Just like mom and dad complaining about the kids but do nothing to correct the destructive actions.  We, as Christians, sit around but what action do we take?  Hooray for people who stand strong on their beliefs such as Chick-fil-a and Hobby Lobby.  Yet, many Christians support StarBucks who does not support our troops and supports many movements that conflict with the Christian values.  
    And how do we respond?  Oh, well I really like the mocha-yocha-chocka iced coffee.  Well!!! Find something else from someplace that supports your Christian values.  God does not honor dis-obedience!!  Enough for today.  Love you all.
  In Christ's Love and Grace
    Johnny
p.s. would love your comments
 

Read, think, meditate -= evaluate Proverbs 16:18-27

Good morning all. God is good all the time, all the time God is good.  TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!!
   Today, Please read this portion of Provers 16 in King James, then in the NIV.  Does it resonate with you?  Can you see your self here?  And which one are you?  It talks about haughty, proud, a man's heart and other items.  Take a moment and meditate on these verses.  Love you all.
   Proverbs 16:18-27King James Version (KJV)

¹⁸ Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall.
¹⁹ Better it is to be of an humble spirit with the lowly, than to divide the spoil with the proud.
²⁰ He that handleth a matter wisely shall find good: and whoso trusteth in the Lord, happy is he.
²¹ The wise in heart shall be called prudent: and the sweetness of the lips increaseth learning.
²² Understanding is a wellspring of life unto him that hath it: but the instruction of fools is folly.
²³ The heart of the wise teacheth his mouth, and addeth learning to his lips.
²⁴ Pleasant words are as an honeycomb, sweet to the soul, and health to the bones.
²⁵ There is a way that seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death.
²⁶ He that laboureth laboureth for himself; for his mouth craveth it of him.
²⁷ An ungodly man diggeth up evil: and in his lips there is as a burning fire.
  
     Proverbs 16:18-27New International Version (NIV)

¹⁸ Pride  goes before destruction,
    a haughty spirit before a fall. 

¹⁹ Better to be lowly in spirit along with the oppressed
    than to share plunder with the proud.

²⁰ Whoever gives heed to instruction prospers,
    and blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord. 

²¹ The wise in heart are called discerning,
    and gracious words promote instruction. 

²² Prudence is a fountain of life to the prudent,
    but folly brings punishment to fools.

²³ The hearts of the wise make their mouths prudent,
    and their lips promote instruction. 

²⁴ Gracious words are a honeycomb,
    sweet to the soul and healing to the bones. 

²⁵ There is a way that appears to be right.
    but in the end it leads to death. 

²⁶ The appetite of laborers works for them;
    their hunger drives them on.

²⁷ A scoundrel  plots evil,
    and on their lips it is like a scorching fire.

 

In Christ's Love and Grace

   Johnny

 

HALLELUJAH! LOVE THE LORD GOD! LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR!

Good morning all. God is good all the time, all the time God is good.  TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!
   WOW!  Ever have those dreams that are REAL, or feel real.  I was in a gymnasium or auditorium filled with people and we began singing HALLELUJAH!  But it was sang softly the first time, a little louder the second, louder at the third, and the fourth time was sung at full volume.  We kept singing this over and over.  Then the second verse came in:  Jesus is LORD, and did it the same way.  I woke from my sleep with praise in my heart and a smile on my face.  WOW!  Okay, enough sleeping.
  This came to me in my prayer/devotional time.  What we, as Christians, tend to shun or hate.
    Homosexuals, don't hate them, hate the sin, but pray for them and give them friendship.
    Murders, don't hate them, hate the sin, but pray for them and give them friendship.
    Adulterers, don't hate them, hate the sin, but pray for them and give them friendship.
   Liars, don't hate them, hate the sin, but pray for them and give them friendship.
   Thieves, don't hate them, hate the sin, but pray for them and give them friendship.
   You and I should not covet our neighbors wife, house, car, material things, but pray our heart is right.
   People with tattoos, don't hate them, but pray for them and give them friendship.
  People who look different from us, don't hate them,  but pray for them and give them friendship.
  People with different attitudes than yours, don't hate them, but pray for them and give them friendship.
  People who have other 'gods' before them, don't hate them, hate the sin, but pray for them and give them friendship.
    We, as Christians, tend to put people and our life in 'boxes' and if it does not fit our perception or our 'box' then there is a strong tendency to condemn.  What does Jesus say, the greatest commandment to love the LORD our GOD with all our heart, mind, and soul.  Second, to love thy neighbor as thyself.  If we, you and I, do this and Christians everywhere did this - man, what a wonderful world this would be.  Come on Christians, unite, spread the word and love your neighbor.
In Christ's Love and Grace
Johnny
p.s. why do many people shun church and Christians?
BECAUSE OF THE "CHRISTIANS".
 

Is God really in control?

Hello all! God is good all the time, all the time God is good. TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!! 
   Wow!  Have you read something in the Bible, then sat back and said, whoa, I have read that before but it did not hit me what it is really saying until now.  Well, if you study the Bible I know you have!!
  God IS IN CONTROL and DOES TAKE CARE OF US.  In Acts 23:12-35 (click on passage to read the full scripture), Paul has been thrown in prison and why?  Simply because he preached Jesus, the Messiah.  The Sanhedrin accused him of violating the law.  He was thrown in prison and then 40 men plotted, conspired with the Sanhedrin, Sadducees and Pharisees, to kill Paul when he was brought to trial.
   Paul's nephew heard of the conspiracy he rushed to prison to tell Paul. The message was relayed to the commander who sent Paul by night with guards to Governor Felix  telling of the plot and that Paul was a Roman citizen.
    Paul was spared, his life saved and many could say this is a coincidence.  If you believe in coincidences and luck then your belief in God is weak at best. God sees all, knows all, and will do what He needs to in order to bring honor, glory and praise to Him.
   God wants all this?  For Himself?  How arrogant, how conceited!!  Look at this verse: Exodus 34:14  King James Version     "For thou shalt worship no other god: for the Lord, whose name is Jealous, is a jealous God:......."
  Yes he does, but still, He takes care of us, His Children. God says NO OTHER GOD BEFORE HIM!   If you look, God's hand is in each move here.  The nephew heard, told Paul, Paul told prison guard, prison guard took nephew to tell commander, who sent armed men to take Paul to Governor Felix.  Try this today and see who will really listen.  God's handprint is all over this, Paul, nephew and the Romans.
   Unfortunately, people, the world hates Christians.  Psalm 80:6 "You have made us a source of contention to our neighbors, and our enemies mock us."  This was true in ancient days and is true today.  All we do should be for the glory of God. From a man who does various types of blue collar work to the upper white collar workers who won't get their hands dirty--it should all be done as if doing the work for God.
  Yes, I have rambled and chased rabbits today, but this message is for me and a few of you out there.  The ones who need it will understand.  Love you all.
  In Christ's Love and Grace

   Johnny

Happy feet, beautiful feet--which feet?

Good morning all!  God is good all the time, all the time God is good.  TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!!!
    Are you really blessed?  The answer should be YES!!  You are a child of God,  if you are not rejoicing in this fact - well--what's your problem?  

Isaiah 52:7King James Version (KJV) ⁷ How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him that bringeth good tidings, that publisheth peace; that bringeth good tidings of good, that publisheth salvation; that saith unto Zion, Thy God reigneth!

    God says that the feet of those who bring good news are 'BEAUTIFUL'.  It is a wonderful privilege to be able to share God's Good News with others, his news of redemption, salvation, and peace.

   Will you go out and share the GOOD NEWS with others?   To whom shall you go?  Where will you spread this wonderful news?  Are you committed to God, or do you make an appearance for an hour or two to "appease" yourself and feel like you did something for God?

   "I'M MAD AT HELL, AND I AIN'T GONNA SIT BACK NO MORE!"  Can this be your battle cry for Christ, for God's kingdom?

   Take these words once more, reread, and rejoice:

     ⁷ How beautiful on the mountains

    are the feet of those who bring good news,
      who proclaim peace,
      who bring good tidings,
      who proclaim salvation,
      who say to Zion,
    “Your God reigns!”

 

Will you tell others 'OUR GOD REIGNS?!'  Love you all.

In Christ's Love and Grace

    Johnny

 

Oppressed? Constantly - "I'm mad at HELL (evil) and.........

Good morning all!  God is good all the time, all the time God is good.  TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!!!
   Yesterday we read and studied about Haman, his plot to kill Mordecai and all the Jews, and it was foiled.  If you have time, please read Esther (I assume you already did).  Here is a link and you can read it at your leisure - Esther - the story of an oppressed people overcoming the oppressor.  This is in NIV and KJV paralleled side by side for easy understanding.
   To culminate Esther - we clearly see God at work in the lives of individuals and in the affairs of a nation.  Even when it looks as if the world is in the hands of evil people, GOD IS STILL IN CONTROL!  God protects those who are his.  Although we may not understand everything happening around us, we must trust in God's protection and retain our integrity by doing what we know is right.
   Esther, who risked her life by appearing before the king, became a heroine.  Mordecai, who was effectively condemned to death, rose to become the second highest ranking official in the nation.  No matter how hopeless our condition, or how much we would like to give up, we need not despair.  
     GOD IS IN CONTROL OF OUR WORLD!!!
   Now a current day, political and world view from me.  It matters not if you like or dislike Obama, the fact is the morality of our nation have been deteriorating for decades.  Most presidents serve 8 years of a decade and you can look back through the presidencies and see the slow unraveling of societal morality, bit by bit.  Example:  In 1965, as a junior in high school I was driving my father's car with a great AM radio in it (rural areas did not have FM then).  A song came on and sang the lyrics, "well, I don't give a damn about a green back dollar."  I was shocked to hear this on the radio.  Then, the very next day I heard it again and the lyrics were, "well, I don't give a  ------(silent)---- about a green back dollar."  The censors had got to it that fast.  No cursing or bad language on the radio.  My, how we have changed and fallen away from strict censorship.
    Now, go to a PG-13 and see the type of language you hear.  On prime time tv this week, in a police series, a man makes openly some sexual remarks that I would not want any child to hear.  But this is okay, because we are an open and accepting society.  Huh?  I must change my strong Christian beliefs because the "world" says it is okay?  What do you think!!
   When fictional television anchor Howard Beale leaned out of the window, chanting, "I'm mad as hell, and I'm not going to take it anymore!" in the 1976 movie 'Network,' he struck a chord with workers everywhere.    Can we, today, as Christisans say- "I'm mad AT hell (evil), and I'm not going to take it anymore!"
     Stand up, stand up for Jesus, ye soldiers of the cross!!!!!  Love you all.
In Christ's Love and Grace
   Johnny

Haman, Mordecai, and Esther - an interesting triangle

Good morning all! God is good all the time, all the time God is good.  TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!!
   Esther 4:14 " For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place, but you and your father’s family will perish. And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?”
   Replace the words Jews with your family name.  Think about your whole family perishing.  What would you think?  What would you do?  What would you be willing to do?
   Well, a goofy guy named Haman was moved into a position of authority, which went to his head, put him on his high horse, made him prideful.  When he traveled the streets all the people bowed to him, except......except.......Mordecai.  Well, this really irked Haman, why, he was a man of great stature, how great he is and this little "JEW"- Mordecai would not bow to him. 
   Aww, this Jew, yes JEW, so how can I get even with him?  I will take him out, but no blood on my hands.  I will get the king to know and understand they ALL need to be eliminated, killed, wiped off the face of the earth.  Oh, did I mention his name is Haman, you may be thinking Hitler. (probably a descendent of Haman-lol).
  So Haman convinced King Xerxes that this race of people, Jews, had different laws and did not obey the laws of the king, in fact, they REFUSED to obey the kings laws.  Yep, Xerxes goes for this, not seeing the deceit and deception Haman has cast forth.
   Well, Mordecai heard of this and tore his clothes, put on burlap and ashes, and went into the city crying with a loud and bitter wail.  Esther heard of this, called for Mordecai, who would not change clothes but communicated through a messenger.  Now Queen Esther was Mordecai's neice, a JEW.  The king did not know this, nor did Haman.
   Now if you don't know this story, you need to read the book of Esther, only 10 chapters, about 12 pages, but one can really see God working in the mist of all these events.  So Esther sent work to Mordecai saying, ¹⁶ “Go, gather together all the Jews who are in Susa, and fast for me. Do not eat or drink for three days, night or day. I and my attendants will fast as you do. When this is done, I will go to the king, even though it is against the law. And if I perish, I perish.”
   Esther is going to go to the king, and in this time of the world, if not summoned she could DIE!!  And at the end of verse 16 Esther says, "And if I perish, I perish."  She is willing to die for the cause that is cast before her.  God is not mentioned but you can see his hand in this whole scene.
    Would you die for Jesus, God?  Would you lay your life down for others?  465 Christians whole wide die daily for their belief.  19 Christians die every hour for Jesus Christ.  Many countries it is against the law to be a Christian.  America is coming closer and closer to this daily.  The anti-christ knows time is drawing near and is working hard to help the heads of evil rise up.  Would you die for Christ today, right now?  Would you be an Esther?  Love you all.
In Christ's Love and Grace
   Johnny

23rd Psalm - A guest

Good morning all! God is good all the time, all the time God is good.  TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!!!
    23rd Psalm - ⁵ Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.
   Okay, there are 2 thoughts among Biblical scholars - however; you choose for yourself.  The one I tend to see is this.  First of all, the first 4 chapters we find the Lord is our shepherd, guiding, leading, and keeping us on the right path and fearing nothing.  If we do stray, the staff is used to correct us and get us back on track.  Does not God do this?  Ever been corrected?  By God?  Yeah!  Okay.
  Preparing a table some see as a banquet hall, others as along the travelers path.  Many people traveled during these times, and when night would begin to fall, shepherds made sure all their flock was in safe holding as thieves would lurk and hide among the rocks around where shepherds maintained their herds.
   So, a sojourner may take rest for the night with the shepherd.  The shepherd, being a gracious host, would care for the traveler, keeping him safe while the thieves, the evil lurked in the hills surrounding them - therefore, "thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies".
   It was custom to anoint a guests head with a soothing oil and to keep their cup full so they would not thirst.  This was just a standard part of life in ancient Israel.
  Verse ⁶ Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever.
     Here, we see believers will dwell with the Lord. God, the perfect shepherd and host, promises to guide and protect us through-out our life and to bring us into his house forever.
    Now, if you re-read the 23rd Psalm  you will see that God, the shepherd, will LEAD us (not follow, not walk beside, but lead) and when we error we will be corrected by his staff, yet protected by his rod, and we have nothing to fear as we travel the right path and, AND, we get to dwell with God in HIS house forever.  Wow!!  Does this impact you at all?  If not, well, pray!!
Love you all.  In Christ's Love and Grace
                           Johnny