If you were a tree.......what type of tree would you be?

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

   Okay, I'm going to deviate from Peter today.  This came to me to share.  If you were a tree you would..............(finish the sentence).

Psalm 1:3  He will be like a tree firmly planted by streams of water, Which yields its fruit in its season And its leaf does not wither; And in whatever he does, he prospers.

A tree standing in your yard, beside the road, in a forest, anywhere usually does not cause one to stop, look, and wonder.  However, if it is a very large tree and tends to stand out we may wonder(a) how old that tree is, (b)what it has weathered (been through),(c) kinds of leaves it bears and the type of fruit it bears.   Also, we may want to know about the (d) depth of its roots.

  Now with a really large tree we tend to wonder how old it could be. There are many ways to determine how old a tree is, however, the only EXACT way is to cut it down, count the rings.  When this is done, the tree is of no use any longer unless for fire wood or BBQ.  So, when we fell a tree, it has lost it purpose in the world.  This is us if we forget our purpose in the world as a Christian; we are no better than a felled tree. We are dead in the word, gone, no longer beneficial to anyone.
      When you observe a tree, all most of us see is the exterior - bark, branches, twigs and leaves.  We do not know what all that tree has endured during its life span.  We tend to be much as the tree - people tend to see our outside, our bark, and they don't really know much more about us.  They have no idea what we have endured, as for a tree the rainy seasons, the dry season, the bugs, diseases, or anything else.  For us we also have rainy seasons - times when we are really close to God, revel in His Word, and enjoy the relationships through His Word.  There are also dry seasons, when God is still in the same place, but we have moved away, to a dry, still and desolate place.  God did not move, we did, and we have to move back to the rainy season.  The hardships, injuries, ailments we encounter most do not know of these.  When we go through the hardships we have an option to go through this situation WITH GOD; or to endure WITHOUT GOD!  What do you do? 

     When a tree is healthy it produces fruit - some edible and some not.  However, it does produce fruit.  We also, stand as a tree; some producing good fruit and some not so good.  For example, the buckeye, which carries a toxin and will make one ill (affects the gastrointestinal system).  We have to be careful of toxic people and not let them pull us into their lair.  Sometimes we refer to them as the antiChrists or false prophets.  It is important to surround ourselves with the saints of Jesus Christ, not isolate but surround.  Matthew 7:17-19

"So every good tree bears good fruit, but the bad tree bears bad fruit. "A good tree cannot produce bad fruit, nor can a bad tree produce good fruit. "Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire.

    Then on the other hand, there is fruit such as the pecan.  The pecan is good to eat, rich in fiber, and promotes colon health and facilitates regular bowel movements.  For you weight watchers, pecans also assist in losing weight by increasing metabolism.  This is more the type of fruit we need to produce from our tree.  Helping others understand the reason for Jesus; the purpose of His dying; and this promotes, through salvation, eternal life.  Proverbs 11:30  The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life, And he who is wise wins souls.

   And finally, the roots.  If a trees roots are shallow they will not with stand strong winds, will topple, and create undo hardships.  Some roots, such as the aspen, are invasive and grow or sprout off of a single root winding its way under ground. It appears in places it should not; takes over in places it is not welcome. This is like the darkness or the evil that lurks in the world.  It is constantly invading different places, creating situations that are not necessary, and silently moving about to lure people.
   But, consider the oak tree, that started out as a little nut.  It is a popular wood for its strength, longevity, and wood properties.  Its roots go deeper and maintain a steady base and the tree may grow to be magnificent. A tree many will go to for rest, shade, or just to be near it.  This should be our walk in the LORD.  Where we grow in our faith, wisdom, knowledge and become a beacon for others to pursue and come to. A safe place of refuge.  A place where other may come to rest, be encouraged, and enjoy the fellowship.

  So, I ask again, what type of tree are you; OR, do you want to be? A buckeye or pecan; an aspen or an oak?  The choice is yours. Thank you for rambling through the woods with me today.  I do hope this makes sense to you. Love you all.

Soli Deo Gloria

Johnny

1 Peter 1:23 Born again? Born again!!!

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

   Born again?  Many scoff at this "born again, you are only born once"! Don't be angry, take time to explain, and if you don't understand it your self - take time to study and understand what Born again means.
   ²³ Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever.

   Born again - Jesus spoke of this:

John 3:3-7  Jesus answered and said to him, "Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God." Nicodemus said to Him, "How can a man be born when he is old? He cannot enter a second time into his mother's womb and be born, can he?" Jesus answered, "Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit he cannot enter into the kingdom of God."

   So, what does this tell you?  It is telling you that if you call on Jesus to forgive you of your sins, and truly believe that He, Jesus, came as God-man on earth, died for your sins, was buried and resurrected, and accept this as truth; you are born again.

   You are born again, not in sin as your flesh birth, but of incorruptible seed, meaning of the Spirit. The Spirit lives and abides forever.  Think of it this way.  A flower (plant) produces, bears seeds, and the plant withers and dies.  The seeds begin new life, but they too wither and die. You and I are of the withering and dying seed UNTIL we accept Jesus.  This new birth is a seed that never dies. The everlasting seed. Sooooooo,

     while you are sprouting and generating more seeds go forth and share those seeds with others.  Create a path for new birth and let God do the cultivating.  Hope this resonates with some of your out there in cyber land. Love you all.

Soli Deo Gloria

Johnny

1 Peter 1:22

Good morning all. God is good all the time, all the time God is good. TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!  Jesu Jevu!
    ²² Seeing ye have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit unto unfeigned love of the brethren, see that ye love one another with a pure heart fervently: (KJV)

  (NIV)  ²² Now that you have purified yourselves by obeying the truth so that you have sincere love for each other, love one another deeply, from the heart.

    Okay, you have 'purified' - cleansed, made pure, a cleaning of yourself of the old - now being morally clean.  And how did you do this?

   By obeying the truth - so, what is the truth?  The truth, in my opinion, is not what I think; nor what I think should be done or reacted to in different cases, but the truth is the word of God, led by the Holy Spirit.  By having the word of God truly in me; studying and living the word something else comes out of this. - - - -

    UNFEIGNED LOVE!  What is unfeigned love?  This is a sincere, true from the heart LOVE.  Meaning a true God-like love for our brethren.  Not as we water love down today - I love my car; love my house; love my ............etc.  This is a materialistic love of something that cannot love back the way God loves.

  The true love of God comes out of us with sincerity and true meaning. Our brethren are our brothers and sisters in Christ.  We should love them with all our hearts.

   Okay, not gushy type of love, but true love.  Jesus truly loved his disciples, however, if they did wrong, he corrected them as needed, but with love.  He did not respond with: "you idiot, why don't you understand, are you stupid" - but he replied with sincere love, yet many times it made the other person uncomfortable.

  Jesus did refer to many in different ways to promote understanding. He called the Pharisees the “offspring of serpents,” Herod “a fox,” false teachers “wolves,” and unregenerate Gentiles “dogs.”  Yet he still had love for them.

   When we love others, truly love them, we can be honest.  This honesty may be uncomfortable, it may sting, and the person receiving it may respond with bitterness or denial; but as children of God, speaking to our brothers and sisters in Christ, it is important to be honest, albeit this may be uncomfortable for one or both parties involved. When Jesus told the disciples of his death and resurrection, Peter said no, this won't happen and Jesus'  said unto Peter, "Get thee behind me, Satan: thou art an offence unto me: for thou savourest not the things that be of God, but those that be of men."

  Telling someone they need to give up drugs, alcohol, lose weight, talk without cursing, etc., may not be an easy conversation for either party, but, through the love of Jesus, and through the guidance of the Holy Spirit, all will end up well. When? God knows.

   Thank you for taking this trip with me today. Love you all.

Soli Deo Gloria

Johnny

Thanksgiving before Presents

Hello Everyone.  Thanksgiving eve for all Americans.  God is good all the time, all the time God is good.  TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!  Jesu Jevu!

    Pastor addressed the idea of putting up Christmas trees before Thanksgiving.  Thanksgiving is equated with the idea of to give thanks; Christmas is thought of as presents (in lieu of Christ's birthday).  So, should we not give thanks prior to receiving the gifts.  If you do not thank the person for what you have received; should you then receive the gift?  A state of ingratitude (today entitlement) tends to raise its ugly head.  People, specially children. feel they are owed or entitled to get "what they want".

   We should be thankful 1) for living in America; 2) for being free to worship as we please; 3) last, but certainly not least, our saviour - Jesus Christ - who shed his blood in order for you and me to have eternal life.

    Here is Psalm 100: 

   1 Shout with joy to the LORD, all the earth!

   2Worship the LORD with gladness. Come before him, singing with joy.

   3 Acknowledge that the LORD is God! He made us, and we are his.  We are his people, the sheep of his pasture.

   4 Enter his gates with thanksgiving; go into his courts with praise. Give thanks to him and praise his name.

   5 For the LORD is good.  His unfailing love continues forever, and his faithfulness continues to each generation.

This should be our prayer to walk a blameless path and live with integrity; both our efforts and God's help are necessary.

Shout to the LORD --- Worship God ----Know that He is the great I AM ---- look forward to living with him for eternity. you

Hope this makes sense to you all.  Love you all.

Johnny

1 Peter 5: 6-7 Spend time with the LORD! Give God your burdens.

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

    Yesterday, pastor talked about giving back to the LORD, not just tithing, but in all we do.  We have 24 hours in a day, which is 1440 minutes per day, meaning 144 minutes should be given SOLELY to the LORD.  How much is 144 minutes?  2 hours and 24 minutes.

   Oh, but I don't have that kind of time.  And on this I call mularkey!  (AKA - bunk, BS, wrong, etc). If you decide you want to go to the movies you will spend no less than 2 1/2 hours doing this;  you go out to eat a "quick" meal probably a minimum of an hour unless you have friends then the minutes will add up more and more.

    I guess what hits me, and while you are reading this you may be saying, "well, Johnny is becoming self-righteous isn't he"?  No, I am really preaching to myself.  How difficult is it to rise an hour earlier and spend time with God?  I don't want to - which is translated to laziness.  I wake most every morning by 4 a.m.; do I get up?  Nope, I just lay there, toss and turn, disturb my wife, and let laziness take it's grasp.  Then, oh 5:30, 6, or later I finally rise to start the day.  During this "don't wanna git up" time I struggle with, I could give 5% or more of the day to the LORD right then---but do I?  Nooooo!

    Does the 10% need to be all at one setting?  No, not at all.  Just various times during the day.  And spending time with God does not mean you have to be on your knees praying for 2 1/2 hours; reading the Bible all this time; or doing a Bible study all the time.  It means you can pray, read your Bible, be silent and just listen to the LORD, read a Christian book to further your growth, being with the LORD and giving back does not mean drudgery!  We need to REJOICE in the LORD! 

    Yes, we all have problems and no one else understands.  Oh, but God understands all, knows where you are and what you will be doing.  Why not take time to visit with God, share, and lighten your load.  God can handle your burdens, whereas you and I may screw up the whole situation.

  Give it ALL over to God.  1 Peter 5: ⁶ Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time: ⁷ Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.
  Just food for thought today.  Love you all.

Soli Deo Gloria

Johnny

1 Peter 1: 18-21

Hello to each and everyone one of you. Or, in East Texas talk - hey, y'all!  God is good all the time, all the time God is good.  TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!  Jesu Jevu!

    1 Peter 1:
¹⁸ Forasmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain conversation received by tradition from your fathers;
   Look at this verse 19 - you were not redeemed: what is redeemed?  Redeemed is to buy, get back, pay off a mortgage.  Then look at corruptible things - yes, sliver and gold is included in this as well as metals, cloth, etc.  And vain conversation received by tradition from you fathers?  What?!?!
    Okay, you were bought and paid for by something incorruptible called the blood of Jesus.  And we do not follow the "traditions" of our forefathers.  Tradition?  Yes! Like there were only 3 wisemen - WRONG!  God helps those who help themselves - that IS NOT IN THE BIBLE!
    We need to realize the price that was paid for us through the precious blood of Jesus and live a godly life, not a down trodden and ugly life. And where does tradition lead you? It keeps you doing the same thing day after day, year after year, be it right or wrong.  Not all traditions are bad, but we should live daily a life for God.

¹⁹ But with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot:
    Jesus, who had a rightful place in heaven left this comfortable seat, was without blemish (a scar or mark); came here, on earth to save a sinful world of people.  Would you give your life to save, say, the city of Tyler?  Jesus gave to save the whole world.

²⁰ Who verily was foreordained before the foundation of the world, but was manifest in these last times for you,
    This was known before, repeat BEFORE the world was formed. Jesus knew what He would have to do.  This all came to pass over 2000 years ago for YOU!  For ME, for the WHOLE WORLD!   God is 3 dimensional - knowing the past, the present, and the future. Jesus was willing to shed His blood for YOU!

²¹ Who by him do believe in God, that raised him up from the dead, and gave him glory; that your faith and hope might be in God.
     Verse 21 simply tells us that ye who believe in God (the one who raised Jesus from the dead) have hope and our faith is in God.  God is the Almighty, the One who Reigns, the One who holds the Future of the world in His hands, and YOU and I have the privilege of being a child of God.   This is something worth rejoicing about.  Love you all.
Soli Deo Gloria
Johnny

1 Peter 1: 13-17

Good morning oh wonderful children of God.  God is good all the time, all the time God is good.  TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!  Jesu Jevu!

   Let us look at 1 Peter 1:
¹³ Wherefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and hope to the end for the grace that is to be brought unto you at the revelation of Jesus Christ;
¹⁴ As obedient children, not fashioning yourselves according to the former lusts in your ignorance:
¹⁵ But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation;
¹⁶ Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy.
¹⁷ And if ye call on the Father, who without respect of persons judgeth according to every man's work, pass the time of your sojourning here in fear:
     Okay, gear up tator-chip!  Let us begin.  We should live the way God wants us to, not just physically with actions, but with our minds as well.  Be sober does not mean get off the booze, it means to be able to show self control, discipline and not go off on a tangent.  Last part of 13 Peter is telling us about the grace we are afforded because of Jesus Christ.  Earlier verses alluded to this via the prophets, now he is saying, "look at what you have through Jesus Christ".  Grace is not for just your past, but your past, your present, and your future.  Because of this grace we have hope. Yea!
14 - Being obedient; a chore in itself. The world casts many "lusts" before us, but we are not to follow these lusts, as we once did when we were ignorant of the salvation and grace through Jesus Christ.  Lusts may be alcohol, drugs, material things, lusting after the opposite sex, coveting what someone else has. But, we must be obedient and give these up.  Why?
     15- Because, as Jesus called you to be in the fold of Christians, he has called you to be holy.  This thought of holy is not to be holy as Jesus was/is; but to be set apart from the 'world' and walk in faith-separate from the world.
  16- God wants us to share in being apart from the world and share in his holiness.  Wow! Someone, a supernatural spirit that is alive and really cares for YOU!
    17- and when we call on the Father, HE shows NO FAVORTISM, but will judge us according to what we have done.  So, when it says pass the time of your sojourning here in fear - it does not mean shaking in your boots as if fear of a burglar, murderer, or mean person.  Fear here means in reverence of, to want to please, and have "fear" (a conscience) and it bothers you that you do not please or be obedient.
     God is not a politician or business maneuvering to get his/her way. God is just and fair.  All we have to do is be obedient. Love you all.
Soli Deo Gloria
Johnny

1 Peter 1:10-12

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

    1 Peter 1:
¹⁰ Of which salvation the prophets have enquired and searched diligently, who prophesied of the grace that should come unto you:
   The teaching of salvation by Peter was foretold by the prophets.  This is not a fad, or just something new; but the real deal.  The prophets knew they were ministering to people beyond their lives, but it was important.  They may or may not have known what was to come, but were obedient to God.
¹¹ Searching what, or what manner of time the Spirit of Christ which was in them did signify, when it testified beforehand the sufferings of Christ, and the glory that should follow.
    The prophet would have liked to see exactly what was going to happen with the new covenant, the Spirit of Christ.  They may have had an idea of the sufferings Christ would go through, but not know how bad it really was.  However, they knew that glory would follow which we call salvation.  To be a child of God.
¹² Unto whom it was revealed, that not unto themselves, but unto us they did minister the things, which are now reported unto you by them that have preached the gospel unto you with the Holy Ghost sent down from heaven; which things the angels desire to look into.
    The prophets would have enjoyed knowing what they prophesied was now in the New Testament as FACTS.    We know who, Jesus, and we know when (Jesus' birth through crucifixion) and we should take this much more serious than did the prophets.  They were part of the book being written; we, now, have read the book and know the FACTS.  The angels look down, follow us, observe our conduct, and knowing this we must be obedient to God.
    I do hope this makes sense to you.  Studying it for a couple of days, I think I understand, but if you can reveal this better please help. Love you all.
Soli Deo Gloria
Johnny

Is Trump the modern day King Cyrus for America?

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

    You all are Christians, and Christians FIRST I would pray. The allegiance to any political party affiliation should not affect  or cloud your mind as a Christian.  Too many are hard core republicans, democrats, libertarians, tea party, etc. and forget their Christianity during such things as elections.

   A young pastor, Jeremiah Johnson, in August of 2015 came out with a prophetic statement that was quoted by the World Net Daily stating that Donald Trump was going to win the 2016 election.  He also wrote an article in July  2015 to Charisma Magazine.

     In this article Jeremiah prophesied that Donald Trump would win the election and would be used by God as the trumpet as he did King Cyrus in Isaiah 45.  Cyrus was predicted to be king 150 years BEFORE he (Cyrus) was born.  Jeremiah predicted Trump president over 15 months BEFORE the election.

   Let go of your biases, whether it be political, religious, race, or whatever you have that holds you back and feel the real spirit of God, the Holy Spirit, flowing through you.

      Many Christians poo-poo prophesy or words from God. Why???  Is God dead?  If he is we are all be fooled. GOD IS NOT DEAD!! Therefore, prophesies, visions, are still alive and well   BECAUSE GOD IS NOT DEAD!!

   Here is a youtube video speaking about the Trump prophesy.   The video is 15 minutes long, but the few minutes (after the ad) gives you what Jeremiah prophesied.

    If you don't wish to listen here is the prophesy:  August 11, 2015 2016 Election, Religion

“The Holy Spirit spoke to me and said, ‘Trump shall become My trumpet to the American people, for he possesses qualities that are even hard to find in My people these days. Trump does not fear man nor will he allow deception and lies to go unnoticed. I am going to use him to expose darkness and perversion in America like never before, but you must understand that he is like a bull in a china closet. Many will want to throw him away because he will disturb their sense of peace and tranquility, but you must listen through the bantering to discover the truth that I will speak through him. I will use the wealth that I have given him to expose and launch investigations searching for the truth. Just as I raised up Cyrus to fulfill My purposes and plans, so have I raised up Trump to fulfill my purposes and plans prior to the 2016 election.'” – Pastor Jeremiah Johnson, quoted today on World Net Daily.
   Here is Jermiah's response to his prophesy:
I will not attempt to defend myself here, I will leave that up to the Lord Jesus now and when I stand before Him and give an account for every word I’ve spoken. The goal of this post is to strictly help those who read the article and have questions and what largely appears to be a gross misinterpretation of what was published. Some Christians appear to be absolutely infuriated at the thought or prophetic word that God is going to use Donald Trump as a Trumpet to expose darkness and bring truth because of His moral background and political views. Perhaps God not being limited, subjected, and dependent to who human beings think He should use for His glory reveals their own issues with God, not a prophetic word. I, like many of you, was shocked by the word I received regarding Donald Trump. Trust me when I say it was given with fear and trembling. Again, I am not called to prophesy what I think or what my opinion is. I simply deliver the word of the Lord and encourage the saints to test and judge what has been spoken. I will publicly repent to the body of Christ if what was prophesied does not come to pass.

    Thank you for listening today. Love you all.

Soli Deo Gloria

Johnny

Be of good cheer this ELECTION DAY!

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

    Remember, no matter who is elected president of the United States of America ------
                            Jesus Christ is still the King!!!

     1 Peter 1: ⁷ That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ:

   Going back to this verse please look - "that the trial of your faith" - you may say will I prayed for XXXX but - ! When you cast forth the "but" you have negated all before it.  Whomever you wanted to be president you may have prayed for, or maybe not; however, in any instant, if the winner is not your candidate - America is still your home. Continue in prayer for America and the new president.

    The trials of your faith is "more precious than of gold" - why?  Because gold can perish. And see the next phrase "though it be tried with fire".  You faith can come through the strongest of trials, even fire. Just like the 3 Jews cast into the fire by old Neb; came out unsinged, no fire smell, but with the smell of the freshness of Jesus Christ (who was with them in the fire).

   Though all this we give praise, honour, and glory to Jesus Christ who shed His blood so that you, me, and all the sinners in the world may have the chance for salvation.

   If Donald is elected - be of good cheer because God is in control; if Hillary is elected - be of good cheer because God is in control.  Last election over 10 million evangelicals did not vote.  If we really believe, then it is our duty to follow the laws of the land; we have the right to vote so we must use it.

  Too often as Christians we sit back and play the woe is me card and don't step forth for what is right.  Jesus was angry, turned over tables, and cast the money changers out of His fathers house. Jesus was angry because of the lack of respect to His Father; our Father in Heaven and we should be angry also.  We need to pray, exercise our right to vote, and speak up.  Black lives matter started over someone that many cannot even remember his name; Jesus Christ matters should be the main theme in America.

  Sorry for my tirade. Be strong, be a Christian, be Christ like and do the right thing, letting all you do bring glory to GOD.  Love you all.

Soli Deo Gloria

johnny

1 Peter 1:10-12

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

  What a blessing you all are to me.  One of the reasons I keep studying my Bible is for the many to whom my study goes, and to the few who actually read it. lol  This helps me stay in tune with God, not as much as I should, but it does. Thank you all.
  
¹⁰ Of which salvation the prophets have enquired and searched diligently, who prophesied of the grace that should come unto you:
   This salvation is not a fade or whim to Peter and the followers.  This salvation is the real deal that prophet from old searched and prophesied. The old testament prophets knew what was coming and wanted to see the New Covenant.
¹¹ Searching what, or what manner of time the Spirit of Christ which was in them did signify, when it testified beforehand the sufferings of Christ, and the glory that should follow.
   The prophets knew the words and ministering they were sharing were to the people of the day and to the people of the future. What the prophets predicted, the apostles did report as fact.  The prophets knew a lot, but much was still hidden from them.  They had an idea of the sufferings of Christ, but had no idea of the total excruciating punishment Christ would endure.  They did not know how wonderful the apostles would be in spreading the word, creating disciples and having the Holy Spirit.
¹² Unto whom it was revealed, that not unto themselves, but unto us they did minister the things, which are now reported unto you by them that have preached the gospel unto you with the Holy Ghost sent down from heaven; which things the angels desire to look into.
   Much was revealed through prophesy and the angels observe our behavior, our conduct, to see if we are talking,walking, and acting in accordance with the Holy Spirit.
  Are you following God as you should?  If not, why not?  If so, how may you continue and grow closer to the father?  Love you all.
Soli Deo Gloria

1 Peter 1:6-9

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

    Here is a link to Daniel you may enjoy about the statue and the fiery furnace.

⁶ Wherein ye greatly rejoice, though now for a season, if need be, ye are in heaviness through manifold temptations:

  We rejoice in God's power and willingness to help us, keep us. Then it says 'for a season' meaning for a period of time; maybe a short period, maybe months or years, but for a season.

   heaviness through manifold temptations - this is saying we will be grieved or saddened by the temptations set before us.   Manifold indicates there are numberous, more than one temptations cast before us.  However, we need to remember that we rejoice and praise God in good times and in bad times.
      ⁷ That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ

    'Trial of your faith' - what is a trial?  A trial is when we find out the truth.  What is the truth of your faith?  When it comes right down to it will you be a Peter and deny Christ, OR, will you be as Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-Nego and when faced with deny or truth you will tell the truth, NOT DENYING YOUR GOD!!!

   This faith in our God, in Jesus Christ, in the Holy Spirit is more precious than gold.  Example: Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-Nego kept the faith, when cast into the fire their hair was not singed, clothes burned, nor did they smell of fire.

   When you are faced with trials will you come out as clean.  We find praise, honour, and glory because of Jesus Christ.
    ⁸ Whom having not seen, ye love; in whom, though now ye see him not, yet believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory:

    Peter had seen Jesus, but knew many of the Christians of the day (and later) had not, nor would not see Jesus yet they did love him, they believed in him, and could rejoice with great exaltation.  Yet, the word 'unspeakable' meaning we have no words that are able to describe the joy.  Full of glory - perfect, the ideal we strive for.
  
⁹ Receiving the end of your faith, even the salvation of your souls.

Is not this the finale we are striving for?  At the end of our faith, (life) we have salvation.  The end of our faith, to me, would be when Jesus returns.  This, then, is when we can enjoy the salvation - knowing that we will be praising God and rejoicing in heaven for ETERNITY.
These are my thoughts and would welcome your thoughts as well. If I am in error, please let me know.  Thank you for reading. Love you all.

Soli Deo Gloria

Johnny

1 Peter 1: 3-5

 God is good all the time, all the time God is good.  TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!  Good morning to you all.  Jesu Jevu! Jesus help!  ³ Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead,
⁴ To an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you,
⁵ Who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.

   Let us see what Peter is saying here; not just read, but understand.  Peter is blessing God the Father and cannot give Him enough praise.  Abundant Mercy: it is hard to even imagine what this term contains - abundant mercy - this is from God to us, sinners, who deserve nothing.

   This is "begotten us again" or in other terms we are born again, we have a new beginning, another chance to be in fellowship with God.    HOW?  How did this come about? "a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead" - this is a living hope translated into ETERNAL LIFE.  So, we are born again, and will have eternal life.GREAT! What is the difference?

   The difference is that we have a living God. Jesus Christ was resurrected from the dead, and because God gave us His Son that we may have eternal life we are born again into the family of GOD.  This 'lively hope' is not like many things we "hope for", but a living, non-perishable hope.  This hope will not fade away; it remains.⁴ To an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you,--- this is not an inheritance of gold, silver, property, wealth, or material things. What our inheritance is cannot grow old, mold, fade away or leave us-- our inheritance is reserved in heaven and probably too great an inheritance for Peter to describe.  
   If we gain wealth it will soon be gone; property - eventually sold; but what God has in store is beyond anything we could possibly imagine.  What a blessing!!!!   This paragraph sums it all up:
⁵ Who are kept by the power of God through faith: The promise of our inheritance is certain, because we are kept by the power of God, ensuring that we will endure through faith until the coming of Jesus.
  There is not power greater than God; we have to have faith; and then in the end we will go to our home in heaven with God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit:  the Trinity.  Hallelujah!  Love you all.
Soli Deo Gloria
Johnny