1 Kings 1-11 - summary

Good morning all, God is good all the time, all the time God is good.

  

I kings 1 through 11 takes us from David's death, Solomon coming to the throne and taking rule over all Israel.  This is in chapter 1-David was cold, a woman Abishag came to keep David warm and care for him (no sexual relations).  Adonijah made himself king, Bathsheba speaks to David, then Solomon was made king.

  Chapter 2-David dies, Solomon's throne established. David and his descendants would rule the house and be on the throne and there would be the LORD's peace forever, as long as they followed God.

   Chapter 3 - Solomon has alliance with Pharaoh and married his daughter.  Solomon showed love for LORD by following God's instructions given to him by his father David.  The first of his wisdom - 2 women fighting over 1 child.

   Chapter 4 - King Solomon ruled over Israel with 12 districts and 12 coordinators who provided supplies, 1 each month for Solomon.  People of Judah and Israel were happy and living in peace. Solomon had 4,000 stalls for chariot horses and 12,000 horses.  His wisdom was great.

  Chapter 5 - Solomon makes preparations for building the temple.  Has cedar of Lebanon cut by Hiram, and Solomon kept Hiram in food supplies.  There were 70,000 carriers, 80,000 stonecutters and 3300 formen - all forced labors.  Then men worked 1 month on and 2 months at home.

   Chapter 6 - In his 4th year of reign started building the temple.  60 cubits x 20 cubits wide and 30 cubits high.  Blocks were dressed at quarry and no tool was heard at the temple.  The Cherubim were 10 cubits high and the temple took 7 years to build.

   Chapter 7 - Soloman builds his palace and garners furnishings for the temple.

   Chapter 8 - the Ark was brought from Zion to the city of David.  The sacrifices were too numerous to count or record.  A cloud filled the temple and all had to leave as it was the LORD filling the temple.  From v. 22-52 is Solomon's  prayer of dedication of the temple asking God to hear the prayers of his people.  V.53-61 Solomon blesses the assembly and the dedication of the temple at v. 62.

  Chapter 9 - LORD appears to Solomon and tells him no idols or they would be cut off.  Solomon goes about other activities.

  Chapter 10- Queen of Sheba visits Solomon, she was over whelmed and gave 120 talents of god, large quantities of spices and precious stones to Solomon.  He received yearly 666 talents of gold and silver was not of great value - as common as stones.

   Chapter 11 - the OOPS of Solomon.  Solomon takes wives - mostly of foreign women.  700 wives of royal birth and 300 concubines.  The wives brought in their gods and led Solomon astray.   Solomon did evil in the eyes of the LORD.  v. 26 Jeroboam rebels against Solomon and v. 31 Solomon's kingdom is split - Jeroboam get 10 tribes, then we see Solomon's death.

   Take time to go to : www.biblegateway.com and click on I Kings and the speaker icon and you can listen to these stories.  It is well worth the time and you will gain a wealth of knowledge.

  Whew!  These 11 chapters are not covered thoroughly, but give you a glimpse of what is going on.  Love you all.

In Christ's Love and Grace

Johnny

1 & 2 Kings - Old Testament, then Chronicles

Good morning all. God is good all the time, all the time God is good.  TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!!  Thank you LORD for the rain!

   Solomon served after his father, King David, and ruled over the same territory that King David had brought into Israel's kingdom.  He reigned in peace mainly due to what King David did.

  Once Solomon died Israel broke up into 2 kingdoms - the Northern Kingdom of ten tribes and the Southern Kingdom which was Judah and Benjamin (called Judah).

   The Northern Kingdom fell in 722 BC; but Judah did not fall until 136 years later and fell to Babylon.

   It is thought that Jeremiah wrote the books of Kings, and Jewish tradition gives him credit for doing so.  Here is a quick summary of 1 & 2 Kings before we go deeper into them.

   Through the annals of Solomon, Israel, and Judah we have a history of the events.of the Northern and Southern kingdoms until their fall.

   It is pointed out the wickedness of the northern kings in continuing their golden-calf worship set up by Jeroboam and this is why the Northern Kingdom fell so quickly.

    This shows the judgment of God on the sins of the nations.  Israel and Judah fell because they rebelled against God.  They turned from God to follow the ways of the world and worship other gods.  God's judgment came through the neighboring kingdoms  who came and conquered Israel and Judah.

  Chronicles roughly parallels Samuel and Kings.  These next few weeks I hope to be able to convey clearly some about Kings and Chronicles so we will better understand some of the history of the Bible. Thank you for reading. Love you all.

In Christ's Love and Grace

Johnny

Your reflections--man(woman) in the mirror or water reflection

Good morning all OR God morning all. God is good all the time, all the time God is good.  Wow!  What a blessing to be a child of God.  And,----being a child of God what do you reflect?

   When you look in a mirror, or in still waters - what do you see?  You see the reflection of you and your actions.  If you smile, the face in the mirror (water) smiles back; if you frown then you see frowning from the face in the mirror(water) as well.

   What we hand out, dish out, or portray is what we will gain in return.  Let's look at Galatians 6:7-10.  First Galatians 6:5 "For every man shall bear his own burden." You, I, we are responsible for the works we do, and will shoulder that burden when judgement comes.  Now on to verse 6 "Let him that is taught in the word communicate unto him that teacheth in all good things."

      Our pastors, elders, deacons, lay-leaders should teach us and help us to understand the word.  In return, we should honor them by doing what we can to help them.  This could be by devoted time, money, works, or whatever.

  Galatians 6: ⁷ Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows.  We have to be on guard to not be deceived or make fun of God.  Why?  Because God knows all, is omnipresent and if we choose to walk with evil in the eyes of the LORD, we will be found out. What we plant will be unearthed and we will be found out - whether it be good or bad. Sow good seeds and enjoy the harvest.

  Verse 8 should strike a resounding gong for us all: -
⁸ Whoever sows to please their flesh, from the flesh will reap destruction; whoever sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life.

    If I live and strive to have fleshly things or materials things in the end I will find only destruction.  However, if I sows seeds of the Spirit, then my harvest will be plenty and the end result will be eternal life.  What a blessing!
   ⁹ Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.

   We must not grow tired of doing God's work.  Yes, it may wear on you, you may feel burdened and overloaded, but God is your strength and will help you through it. If God leads you to it; God will lead you through it.  Do not give up and then you will enjoy a bountiful harvest.

   Now for the final statement or command: 
¹⁰ Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.

 As the opportunity arises do what?  Yes, DO GOOD TO ALL PEOPLE.  Remember the verse I was naked and you clothed me, hungry and you fed me? Then God knows all.  It is easy to miss the opportunity to do good because we are:  too busy, in a hurry, don't care, or maybe feel that is not our calling (from God).  We should do good to ALL people,and WHAT-------especially to those who belong to the family of believers.

   YES, we must support one another.  The evil one is a serpent. Serpents move by twisting, and he will twist things around to try to get you to believe a lie rather than the truth, therefore, it is very important we feed one another, encourage one another, support one another, even correct one another so that we may do God's will and reap a bountiful harvest.

   Go look in the mirror today.  See if you like the person you see.  If not, how and what would you change?  If you do like that person can you tell him/her that you love him/her?  God is love; Jesus is love; if we are children of God we should love - - number 1 God; number 2 self; then the rest will come naturally and easily.

   Love you all.

In Christ's Love and Grace

Johnny

Shamayim vs aretz OR Infinite vs finite

Good morning all. God is good all the time, all the time God is good.

   I am reading a book that has a daily devotional, 365 different devotionals to read throughout the year.  However, once I start reading I do not want to stop at just one.

  Today I was reading one about shamayim.   Shamayim is the dwelling place of God and other heavenly beings, erets is the home of the living, and sheol is the realm of the dead.

   Some texts say aretz is the word for earth.  But, in Hebrew when a word ends in "im" it's a sign that word is plural.  So, shamayim, heaven, is plural and of course meaning more than one.

  Aretz is earth and indicating only 1 so it is finite.  Shamayim is infinite.  So, us living on earth are all finite, we live in the physical world and will one day be gone.  It is just the opposite for the things of heaven, shamayim, which are infinite. They will live on infinitely or forever and ever.

   We must remember we live IN the physical realm, but we don't have to be OF the physical or earthly realm.  Instead of filling our hearts with things of this world we should be filling our hearts with things of the spiritual realm.  Shamayim has no limitations; Aretz or earthly things do have limitations.   We should set our sights on all which is heavenly which is unlimited.

  Today, see how much of your earthly (aretz) possessions you can just let go of and see if you can fill up your day with spiritual and heavenly things.  When something happens, look up and thank God rather than look down and grieve. Love you all.  Here are some scriptures.  Read Philippians again until you understand it.

In Christ's Love and Grace

Johnny

My Midbar, my Holy Ground, the Desert!

Good morning all. God is good all the time, all the time God is good.  Wow! What a great blessing to be alive in Jesus Christ and have hope for the here and now.

   Do you ever go to the Holy place? The midbar: desert. Original Word: מִדְבָּר in Hebrew.  When you go to the desert what do you see?

   Usually you see a dry, barren, hot, severe, hard and forbidding place.  Why is a desert important.  God had Moses lead the children of Israel through the desert.  God took Moses to a burning bush in the Midbar.  Why would this be?  Because God wants to visit with them, with us, to allow them (us) to know Him, and to experience His presence.

  But why a desert?  Because in a desert there are no distractions.  It is open, wide open, with no distractions, a Holy Place where we can be in tune and communication with God.  Deuteronomy 8:2-16

   You, I, we all have multiple distractions in the place we are at this time.  That is why we need to go to the desert, a Holy place to seek, listen, and commune with God. If you have ever seen the movie the War Room, then that may be your midbar, your desert.  An isolated place to listen to God, to be with God, to commune with God.

   Sometimes we may hit hard times, when things happen, and suddenly we feel as if we have hit the bottom.  We may feel alone, abandoned, abused, and isolated.  When we do, it is time to STOP!  Be STILL!  and know the great I AM!! YHVH! (Hebrew name for God).  Look at  Psalm 46:10.

  When we are in our wilderness place, desert, or Midbar, all distractions are gone, God took them away and now rather than be angry or despise where we are we should embrace it.  Draw closer to YHVH, God, and listen to what His is saying.  SEEK,  yes, SEEK to hear God's voice and YOU WILL HEAR HIM! Jeremiah 29:12-13

   Remember the wilderness, the desert, the midbar in our life is not just a wilderness, but it is HOLY GROUND - a place where we can hear God's voice.

    Today, put away the distractions, those things that keep you from hearing and listening to God.  Go into your midbar Luke 3:2 and seek to listen to God.

    I AM is the great I AM, and I am because of I AM!  Don't forget God brought you into existence and you are a gem to God. You are valuable, important, and God is not finished with you yet. Go to your Midbar to seek and listen to God. Love you all.

In Christ's Love and Grace

Johnny

Conviction and truth!

Hello fellow Christians!  God is good all the time, all the time God is good.  TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!!!

    Conviction and truth - how many of us really have this?  Conviction - a firmly held belief or opinion.  Truth - a fact or belief that is accepted as true.  How much TRUTH do we have CONVICTION of?

   You know the saying, 'well, google says ............'; and yes, Virginia, the internet is always truthful and correct.  Yeah, right!!  I am guilty of what I am about to say and I'll wager you are also.  Often I take what I hear to be true without, yes, without investigating further.  The ole gossip circle - 'I just heard on the radio that.......'; yep, there it goes.

   Just like letting Sunday School and Church teach us and our children about the Bible.  That just ain't right!!  Why do you say that?  For instance, how many wisemen came to see Jesus?  Most people (and I WAS one of them) say 3.  Why 3 - because of the 3 gifts and the song- We Three Kings.  It is a lie - there were "kings" - plural - meaning 2 or more but you won't find out how many in the Bible.  It just says kings or maji.

    Nativity scenes show the shepherds AND the kings together. Another lie, the kings were not in Bethlehem, but came to see Jesus when he was a toddler.

   Now a question for you that actually read this.  What were the 3 gifts the kings brought and why was each one so significant?  Hmmmm!  Research time.

    And there are more "ERRORS" in our beliefs from the Bible.  Take a moment and stop and think about it.

   Conviction - how strong is your conviction?  Will you stand up for your convictions or beliefs OR just try to ignore and go on?  If a group is together, cursing and telling dirty jokes do you join in or remove yourself from the temptation?  In high school I was a convicted athlete - strict about staying in shape, and I did not drink at parties as many of my buddies did; I was the peace keeper.  THEN, I went to the service, the peer pressure was great to do as other swabbies (sailors) do - drink alcohol.  And yes, my conviction was not strong enough and I fell victim.  I was enjoying the world at that time and had not developed a relationship with Jesus Christ at that time, even though I grew up in the church.

    We must stand up for our convictions and truth; yet show compassion as Christ showed compassion on all, even his torturers.

    Matthew 10: ³² Whosoever therefore shall confess me before men, him will I confess also before my Father which is in heaven.     ³³ But whosoever shall deny me before men, him will I also deny before my Father which is in heaven.

   Now, my question to you is this:  Do you have enough conviction in Christ and truth of the scriptures to stand up for Jesus Christ? 
   

Psalm 25:5  Lead me in thy truth, and teach me: for thou art the God of my salvation; on thee do I wait all the day.

   

John 14:6   Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.

           Food for thought. Love you all.

In Christ's Love and Grace

Johnny

p.s.   M.E.D.I.A. (Most Effective Devil In America)

Psalm 31

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

  During my sleep I kept hearing Matthew 31 and could not figure this out, AND, in my dream I could not recite it.  There is good reason, that is because there is not a Matthew 31st chapter.  I began looking at the 31st verses of many chapters and did not understand the meaning of how they would all come together. However, I am still searching and if you have an idea or knowledge please let me know.  Then came the thought, "What about Psalm 31"?

   As I migrated to the Psalms I began to wonder, how many books in the Bible have 31 or more chapters.  Well, there is Genesis, Exodus, Numbers, Deuteronomy, 1 Samuel, 2 Chronicles, Job, Psalm, Proverbs, Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, all in the Old Testament.  Proverbs 31 is a great chapter and there is a woman's ministry called Proverbs 31 - the president is Lysa TerKeurst. Click on the previous link if you wish to know more.

   I looked at each chapter and then came back to Psalm 31.  This must have been a time when Saul was pursuing David with the intent to kill. Let's look at the chapter.
           First,  David professes his cheerful confidence in God, and, in that confidence, prays for deliverance out of his present troubles (v. 1-8).
                  Next,He complains of the very deplorable condition he was in, and, in the sense of his calamities, still prays that God would graciously appear for him against his persecutors (v. 9-18).
                      And finally, He concludes the psalm with praise and triumph, giving glory to God, and encouraging himself and others to trust in him (v. 19-24).

  We must, as did David, have complete and total faith in God.  Let God rule in our lives and give HIM praise and glory for all that happens in our lives whether it be good or bad.  Take a moment to read all of Psalm 31 and the Proverbs 31- specially verses 10-31.  How a woman is beneficial is an excellent for us all.

   Thank you for reading today. I do hope all this makes some sense to you. Love you all.

In Christ's Love and Grace

Johnny

I AM & Holy Spirit (Wind)

Good morning all. God is good all the time, all the time God is good.  My computer tells me that another computer has my same IP address.  If you receive something from me that looks a little suspicious DON'T OPEN IT and then let me know.  Most of you will only receive my morning study so if anything else shows up - BEWARE!

    I am reading a book my sister-in-law and brother-in-law gave me that is wonderful and great reading.  It definitely stimulates thought on who I am, what I am doing and my spiritual life.

   Today I read about who is God, what is his name.  His name in Hebrew is YHVH which in English is "I AM".  In this it points out that when asked who you are we say "I am ............(your name)" .  Pointing out that we say his name when saying our name - I AM!   I AM is the sacred name of God.

  So, we all say HIS name when saying our name.  Why do you think this is? Our existence comes from HIS existence.  We, you and I, exist only because HE exists.  Our life, our everything comes from HIM - the great I AM! 

    His existence is first, then comes our existence.  So, we SHOULD put God, I AM, first before us and let everything we do come from this.  The secret of life is not to live life, but to live life for HIM, the great I AM!  Acts 17:28

   The Holy Spirit (Holy Wind in Hebrew)  This is a simple analogy.  If the wind is blowing strong today and you begin walking against that wind what happens?  It is as if you have an anchor impeding your progress.  Let's say the wind is blowing 15-20 mph (or 32 kilometers), then as you travel forward you are having to exert more effort, lean into the wind, and struggle.  Once you finally reach your destination you are worn and tired. 

    Now, it is time to return.  As you walk, stride, maybe glide with the wind to your back, once you return you are not tired, worn out, and the trip or mission was easy.  We are not fighting the force, but moving with the force (wind).

   This is how our life is with the Holy Spirit (Wind).  If we constantly go against the Holy Spirit we encounter many struggles and set backs.  However, if we let the Holy Spirit empower us, we will move forward and all we do will become easier.  Remember, if we walk in the Spirit, the Wind is at our back.  Today, see what part of your life is against the Spirit (Wind), turn it around and begin walking with the Wind (Spirit) at your back.  Click here to see 3 great scriptures, Acts 2:2; John 3:8; and Galatians 5:16-17.  Love you all.

In Christ's Love and Grace

Johnny

Clay pot: closed, open, or broken!

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

   Just a quick note, the "riots of rage" in the Middle East over the moving of the US Embassy to Jerusalem is mostly young people and women (as reported by i24 news).  My question, as in the USA is, who is supporting or paying these people to demonstrate?  Do they actually know what they are demonstrating against?  Or, are they just believing what the extremists tell them.

    A man on i24 news said Jerusalem was the capital of Judea. When King David first took over Judea (for 7 1/2 years) the capital was Hebron; then he moved it to Jerusalem.  Verify in your Bible. This is fact if you believe the Bible is the true word of God.  Ok, enough of this.

   In  my devotional today it talked about a clay pot.  How much can you put into a clay pot?  Only what will fit and then put the lid on.  However, the point is that by opening yourself up you can come to know that which you don't already know.  An open vessel has no limitations; whereas a closed pot can only take in so much and then is closed off to anything else.

  A clay pot that is little cannot contain big; that which is finite cannot contain that which is infinite.  However, if we open the pot, take the lid off we can contain much.  What we don't know is far greater than what we know.  We have a choice, to be a clay pot with a lid; OR, to open up our clay pot (no lid) and contain that which is greater than ourself.

  In Jeremiah 33:2-3 God speaks:  "
² Thus saith the Lord the maker thereof, the Lord that formed it, to establish it; the Lord is his name;
³ Call unto me, and I will answer thee, and show thee great and mighty things, which thou knowest not.
In 2 Corinthians 4:
⁶ For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.
⁷ But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us.
Meditate on these scriptures, open your vessel, and listen.  Go to the desert place and commune with the LORD!  Love you all.
In Christ's Love and Grace
Johnny

Day of Infamy!!

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

   Wow!  So much in the news.  On this day 76 years ago devastation came upon the Navy's Pacific Fleet - the Day of Infamy.  They were bombed and many sunk when Japan attacked Pearly Harbor.  This was a black day for the American Navy, President Roosevelt, and the American people.  We had been in a depression and now, to make matters worse - we are in a war that we did not wish to be in.  Japan attacked us, but would we end up fighting the Germans also?

   Many good men were lost that day along with lots of military protection.  This rallied America to come together and fight the enemy.  America did!

   Today, as then, we are in a war - however our war is much more difficult as we are in a spiritual war.  Satan has been successful in planting seeds, starting riots, and creating unrest in America as well as the world.  Oh, we can blame the liberals for their relaxed beliefs,the atheists for their non-belief, the democrats and republicans for not doing the right thing in the eyes of the LORD.  However, a lot of this blame lies on your shoulders, my shoulders, and every Christians shoulders.

  Huh?  Why?   We talk about it but do we do anything?  But I am only one, what can I do?  We can pray -- and pray with earnest belief in what we pray.  Do you ever pray and then doubt?  Quit it!  Pray and believe!

     Sept. 11th, 2001 the American people rallied, more churches were filled then than they are now.  Why?  Fear!  Fear gripped a lot of people and they came to band together. In desperation looking for help, something.  But once the smoke cleared, politicians gave their idle rhetoric, the fear seemed to dissipate, people slid back to their old ways.

   Satan is the great deceiver.  He brings us presents or packages in appealing disguises just to lure us in.  Let us look at what Jesus says in:
 John 8: ⁴⁰ But now ye seek to kill me, a man that hath told you the truth, which I have heard of God: this did not Abraham.
⁴¹ Ye do the deeds of your father. Then said they to him, We be not born of fornication; we have one Father, even God.
⁴² Jesus said unto them, If God were your Father, ye would love me: for I proceeded forth and came from God; neither came I of myself, but he sent me.
⁴³ Why do ye not understand my speech? even because ye cannot hear my word.
⁴⁴ Ye are of your father the devil, and the lusts of your father ye will do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and abode not in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own: for he is a liar, and the father of it.
⁴⁵ And because I tell you the truth, ye believe me not.

Con artists abound in this evil world, not just in the financial realm, but also in the spiritual realm.  Look at 2 Corinthians 11:
¹³ For such people are false apostles, deceitful workers, masquerading as apostles of Christ. ¹⁴ And no wonder, for Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light. ¹⁵ It is not surprising, then, if his servants also masquerade as servants of righteousness. Their end will be what their actions deserve.
  Today reminds us of the Day of Infamy of WW II, let's remember this also as the day you take a bold stand against the evil in the world and STAND UP FOR CHRIST!!  It is PRAYER TIME my friend.  Let us all be in prayer conintualy and daily for not just America or the world, but for the CHRISTIANS everywhere AND for salvation to come to many!!
   I do pray you understand the message I am wishing to convey; we ARE AT WAR, arm yourselves with the shield of God.  Love you all.
In Christ's love and grace
Johnny

Jerusalem

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

   President Trump moving US Embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem.  People act as if this is something new and that Trump - trumped up. (excuse the pun)  However, this is the Jerusalem Embassy Act of 1995, a law passed by our congressional leaders.  What has happened is every 6 months for the past 2 plus decades the president in office at that time signed a waiver.   The move could be put off for six months at a time as long as the President “determines and reports to Congress in advance that such suspension is necessary to protect the national security interests of the United States.”

     Trump did not declare Jerusalem the capital of Israel; this was done 3,000 years ago by a man named King David (he moved the capital from Hebron to Jerusalem). Senate majority leader Bob Dole led the push to have this enacted, which may have been politically motivated as he was planning to run for President.

   There is an embassy in Jerusalem as well as Tel Aviv, so it would appear to me that they just have to switch signs and transfer people.  I am certain there is more to it than that, but it definitely has created a ruckus.

     Is it that we are coming closer to the end of times when Jesus shall return?  Jerusalem being declared to be the capital will cause a fuss among the Islamic crowd.  Here is the thought for the day:
  
2 Peter 3:10 10 But the day of the Lord will come like a thief. The heavens will disappear with a roar; the elements will be destroyed by fire, and the earth and everything done in it will be laid bare.

   We may be close; have enough oil for your lambs so when the bridegroom comes you will be ready.  Love you all.

In Christ's Love and Faith,

Johnny

Why are you a Christian?

Good morning all. God is good all the time, all the time God is good.

   This morning this thought came to me - why are you a Christian?  and then Can you tell why you are a Christian to a non-believer? To a Muslim?  To an athiest? To a Catholic? To a Jew?  How would you approach any of these different sects?

   Billy Graham tells us to identify our mission field.  We ALL HAVE A MISSION, however, some of us just don't know because we aren't looking or refuse to acknowledge our mission.  Look at Psalm 96:3- it tells us to “Declare his glory among the nations, his marvelous works among all the peoples!” Keep your eyes open for people you can talk to and ways you can connect the conversation with Christ.

   Next, Billy says to FOCUS ON THE GOSPEL!  Here are some suggestions:

• Live a consistent, Christ-centered life.
• Be a friend and a good listener.
• The Holy Spirit gives us power to share the Gospel (Acts 1:8). Pray He will give you opportunities to share your faith.
• Avoid arrogance and preachiness.

YOU MAY BE THE ONLY BIBLE SOME SEE!
And last we should share true stories of God's power.  Most people will only give you a few minutes to get your point across, don’t ramble on and on, try writing down your story—focusing on a few key points.
  If you have 60 seconds to share Jesus Christ with someone what would you say?

Please remember: “Prayer is crucial in evangelism!"  We should all ask and be led by the Holy Spirit.  Walk not in our own strength but in the strength of the Holy Spirit.

John 3:16-17 is a good place to start. We are all sinners, not one worthy of the glory of God except through the blood of Jesus Christ.  Jesus came to save the world, not condemn it!  

   Love you all.

In Christ's Love and Grace,

Johnny

Interesting Bible study/information- years between Old & New Testament

Good day friends!  God is good all the time, all the time God is good.

   Did you know Jerusalem has been the most fought over city in all history?  It has been pillaged, destroyed, and burned over 27 times in its history.  How crazy is that?

   Also, there were 2 lines of "political" figures, aka priests during the 400 years (some say 500 years) between the Old Testament and the New Testament. There were the Pharisees - a more conservative bunch who tried to follow the Mosaic Law (yet adding some to it).  And then there were the Sadducees -a more liberal bunch. They turned away from the strict interpretation of the law and became the rationalists of their day, ceasing to believe in the supernatural in any way.
   Antiochus Epiphanes, became one of the most vicious and violent persecutors of the Jews ever known.  He has been called the AntiChrist of the Old Testament. What is funny is some of his people evidently agreed more with the prophecies of Daniel, and they changed two letters in his title. from Epiphanes to Epipames, which means "the mad man."How appropriate.

   Around 171 B.C., Antiochus came upon Jerusalem with great vengeance.  The people heard he had been killed, (a false report) and revolted overthrowing  Menelaus, the pseudo-priest.  Then Antiochus intruded into the very Holy of Holies in the temple itself. Some 40,000 people were slain in three days of fighting during this terrible time.
        When he forced his way into the Holy of Holies, he destroyed the scrolls of the law and, to the absolute horror of the Jews, took a sow and offered it upon the sacred altar. Then with a broth made from the flesh of this unclean animal, he sprinkled everything in the temple, thus completely defiling and violating the sanctuary.
   To the Jews, this was simply appalling, that anything like this could ever happen to their sacred temple.In Daniel 8:14 it was defiled for 2300 days or 6 1/2 years.
   It was cleansed under the leadership of a man now famous in Jewish history, Judas Maccabaeus.  He and his small army overthrew the Syrian kings, captured Jerusalem, and cleansed the temple.  The day they cleansed the temple was named the Day of Dedication, and it occurred on the 25th day of December.  The Feast of Dedication is still celebrated by the Jews on the 25th Day of December.  The Maccabees were the revolution army to take Jerusalem back until another conflict, at which time Rome took power and Jerusalem

  A battle for the area ensued until Pompey, the Roman general, was offered the most money, took Jerusalem and  now it came under Roman rule. And you might recall, a man called Herod the Great became ruler over Judea.  If you don't remember him read the Christmas story. 

  Anyway, this is a kind of quick run from the Old Testament to the New Testament.  I do hope you found it as interesting as did I.  Love you all.

In Christ's Love and Grace

Johnny

Recap of 2 Samuel and then Kings

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

  The books of Kings and Chronicles show how each decision in Israel's history had a corresponding affect on the nation.  They . will show how God blessed th nation of Israel, they sinned, and then the nation's destruction

  During this study we will see the kings - Solomon, the Divided Kingdom, and Judah. In Chronicles we will see the genealogies, David, Solomon and Judah.

  Let's recap 2 Samuel a moment before starting Kings on Monday.
 First, David gets the report that Saul and his son Jonathan were killed in battle.

Second, David and his men mourn Saul's death and David is appointed as king over Judah; Abner (army commander) makes Ishbosheth, Saul’s son, King over Israel.

   Judah's capital city is Hebron, where David is, then David has six sons by six wives.

  Abner and Ishbosheth are killed, David mourns, then Israel reunites, making David king over all Israel.  He was King of Judah 7 1/2 years, then king over all Israel for another 33 years.

   David then moves the capital city to Jerusalem, where the church began.  Israel at war, defeats the Philistines. David begins to move the ark from Kirjath-jearim to Jerusalem. However, David not allowed to build a house for Jehovah, they had many wars.

   In the war against Ribbah, David remained at the palace and David seduces Bathsheba, the wife of Uriah, the Hittite. Then he tries to cover up his sin.

   There comes conflict, misery and heartache in the family because of David's sin with Bathsheba.  His son, Abasolom conspires to take his father's kingdom,  there was dissension among the tribes, famine, more battles, and David's return to God.  It is a very interesting and wonderful read if you have time.  Start at chapter 12 and continue forward to read about the above brief review.  May God be in your every thought and action today. Love you all.

In Christ's Love and Grace

Johnny

How is the world around you?

Good morning all. God is good all the time, all the time God is good.

   What is happening all around us?  So often we reap what we sow, and then there is collateral damage, the fallout can be quite significant.

   We tend to make professional athletes our heroes, professional musicians our idols, dote after movie stars, and on and on.  When, in actuality the real heroes are right under our noses.  Our mom, dad, brother, sister, children, cousins, friends.  However, the problem with all this is we tend to put our love and trust into "man".

    Man will let us down. God NEVER LETS US DOWN!!

Modern society has changed the Golden Rule from "Therefore, whatever you want others to do for you, do also the same for them, this is the Law and the Prophets. Matthew 7:12   to "WHOEVER HAS THE GOLD MAKES THE RULES".

   While weaving the blanket of trust throughout our family and friends we need to remember the threads of love and kindness  should be in every fabric we weave.  God's word is clear we should treat others fairly with kindness and courtesy; remembering also, that being humble does not mean to be a doormat.

   We must stand up for what is right and just according to God.

Love is not grabbing, or self-centered, or selfish.  Real love is being able to contribute to the happiness of another person without expecting to get anything in return. James Dobson

     When you extend hospitality to others, you're not trying to impress people, you're trying to reflect God to them.  Max Lucadeo

   Let me leave you with this word:  God has a plan for your life, a definite purpose that you can fulfill--or not.  Your challenge is to PRAY for GOD's guidance and to follow wherever HE leads!  Hope this makes sense to ya'll. Love you all.

In Christ's Love and Grace

Johnny

Worry, Fear, Happiness

Good morning all my Christian brothers and sisters. God is good all the time, all the time God is good.  TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!

      WORRY (& FEAR) IS THE DARKROOM

     WHERE NEGATIVES ARE DEVELOPED!

We tend to worry about things of which we have no control.  Then thoughts begin to develop and our mind takes many strange turns and crooked forks, helping to lead us astray.

    We worry and fear when all we want is happiness.  Well, what is happiness?  The New York Times has a guide on how to be happy. The report says to begin with four (4) main things now to improve your happiness.

       1.  Conquer your negative thinking:

               acknowledge and challenge our negative thoughts.

       2.  Forgive yourself:

              be as supportive of yourself as you are of others.

       3.  Money helps, but only to a point:

              supposedly $75,000 per year is when happiness peaks.

       4.  Buy more time:

              The idea here is to purchase services that save time (i.e. takeout dinner, get a cab, just any convenience).

Well, what do you think?  Do these "THINGS" really bring happiness?

  That is the secular world worrying about happiness; how about the Christian world?

     Psalm 37:4 "Take delight in the LORD, and he will give you the desires of your heart".

    Isaiah 12:2 "Surely God is my salvation; I will trust and not be afraid, the LORD, the LORD himself, is my strength and my defense; he has become my salvation".

    Romans 5:2 "through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. And we boast in the hope of the glory of God".

  Matthew 5:8 "Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God".

   Proverbs 16:20 "Whoever gives heed to instruction prospers, and blessed is the one who trusts in the LORD".

  In Matthew Jesus gave us the beattitudes.  Take a moment to read them by clicking here.

    Worry is like shoveling smoke, it does no good and negative thoughts develop.  Fear is a self infliction and lack of trust in the LORD.  Happiness is in Christ and your salvation.

    You can be secular and follow the New York Times steps to happiness; OR, you can rest assured that Jesus Christ is real, your salvation is real, and that eternal happiness is in your future FOREVER,  ETERNALLY!

   There are solutions all over the world to make us happy.  What really makes YOU HAPPY?  Love you all.

In Christ's Love and Grace

Johnny

p.s. Matt Lauer was fired for inappropriate workplace conduct. Question for you: is this a copy cat complaint or real?  Who knows?

Forgiveness Colossians 3:13; Ephesians 4:31-32; Luke 17:3-4

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

   Yesterday I shared about sorrow and our soul is weary.  Sometimes we are sorrowful because of the events that have happened in our lives and we are not "forgiving" the ones who violated us.

    Colossians 3:13 "Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the LORD forgave you."

     This is a tough call as we would like to strike back.  However, the "unforgiveness" in our heart becomes a sist and just continues to grow. This sist persists and causes us pain.

   Ephesians 4:31-32 "Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice.  (32) Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you."

   It is very difficult to do this.  I know from personal experience. I once had a boss who did not like me and undermined me at every opportunity.  I was unwillingly to forgive, but the closer I came to the LORD, I realized my error and forgave him. A heavy burden was then lifted and I felt much better and felt like I was in closer fellowship with the LORD.

  And finally, Luke 17:3-4 "So watch yourselves, If your brother or sister sins against you, rebuke them; and if they repent, forgive them.  Even if they sin against you seven times in a day and seven times come back to you saying 'I repent,' you must forgive them."

    Now, we must forgive, however, this is telling us it is okay to rebuke, or tell them what they have done to offend or sin against you.  It is important to share with the offending party, let them know what happened and how it affects you, and then forgive them.  It is okay to tell them you forgive them, and that you expect them to turn from their offensive ways.  This may take courage to do, however, with God on your side, it will be easier and you will feel much better.

    May your day be great in the LORD JESUS CHRIST!  Love you all.

In Christ's Love and Grace

Johnny

My soul is weary - Psalm 119:28

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

How often do we fall prey to the world around us and tend to "take matters in our own hands"?  We need to stop, listen, and pray.  Stop what we are doing in our own efforts.   Listen to what God wants us to do.  Then Pray for his guidance and wisdom.

   Tis easy to say, but so often we fall prey instead of falling to pray.  Does God answer?  Yes, but so often if it is not what we want we think HE does not hear, care, or respond.  HE does, our prayers ARE ANSWERED, just not necessarily the way we envisioned them.

   I see sorrow, terror, frustrations, pain and suffering all around us.  Over 300 people killed in the Muslim Mosque by terrorists in Egypt.  Over 2,000 killed on the highways of Texas this year.  First responders,  innocent people, many killed for no main purpose.  Why? 

  Our strength comes from above and we call Him GOD.  We need to remember this and keep this in mind always.  Let us fall to pray; not fall to prey!  Love you all.

In Christ's Love and Grace

Johnny

Do you believe? Really? And miracles also??? Hmmmmm!

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

   We in America are truely blessed.  We don't realize how blessed we are.  Some say lucky, lucky rolls with the unbeliever; blessed with the believer.  We drive in nice cars (maybe old but still), we have paved roads, we have the right to speak out without major retaliation, can hunt and carry guns, are not hungry, but most of all we have the right OF FREEDOM OF RELIGION !!!!

   A man at Bible study shared the story of a Romanian Army soldier.  Romania was overrun by the communists and Christianity was not allowed and if in possession of a Bible you would be severely punished or killed.

   This soldier had a Bible, kept it safe and read it daily, allowing no one to know what he had and what he did.  Then, he was transferred to a new duty station. Upon arriving with orders in hand, he came in with his duffle bag and his Bible placed in the top part of his bag.

   The officer on duty commanded that he give him his duffle bag, took it, opened it and scattered everything out on a table.  The Bible fell and stopped right in the middle of the table.  At this point the soldier began praying that the officers eyes would be blind to the Bible.  This, having a Bible, was punishable by the powers that be and possibly even death.  As the soldier is praying  he observes the officer touching everything on the table EXCEPT the Bible.

   Then the officer steps back, orders him to pack his belongings back in to the duffle bag and proceed.  Yes, he thanked God for the miracle.

   Do miracles exist?  YES!  However, in America, the "civilized world" we have a tendency to justify why something happened, or explain it away.  Why is it we can't just accept that God is alive and miracles are not dead.

   People in the middle East see miracles daily.  Maybe we need more KNEE POWER in America. And maybe we need to look around and observe better. Love you all.

In Christ's Love and Grace

Johnny

Kingdom of David (2 Samuel 1-24)

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

   David, here is a man after God's own heart.  Is he sin free?  Certainly not, but God is number one in his life.  Does he slip and fall?  Yes, but still seeking God's guidance.  Let's look at David aka King David.

   I think of David as being king over Israel.  However, he was king of Judah for 7 1/2 years as there tended to be a civil war between the tribes of Israel.  To fully understand you will need to read 2 Samuel 2 to 2 Samuel 5. In these chapters you will find that Abner was a commander of Saul's army and with one of Saul's sons, Ish-Bosheth, they fought against David.  However during this course of fighting Saul's army became weaker while David's army became stronger.

   Ish-Bosheth served as king of the northern tribes, but in reality Abner, the commander of the Army, proved to be the power behind the throne.  When Ish-Bosheth displeased Abner, Abner volunteered to give the rest of the kingdom to David. Once he did this Joab killed him. And who is Joab? Joab was the son of Zeruiah, a sister of king David.  After this Ish-Bosheth's power was diminished and he was killed by men seeking their own gain.

   It was at this point that the other tribes of Israel came to David asking him to be their king.  David was thirty years old at this time and ruled for the next 33 years, total years as king about 40 years.

   Now all was not easy peasy for David to become king.  It took a while and what many people over look is the wives David had, and his children before the encounter with Bathsheba.  Look at this: David lived in Hebron and had 6 sons: 2 Samuel 3-

² Sons were born to David in Hebron:

His firstborn was Amnon the son of Ahinoam of Jezreel;

³ his second, Kileab the son of Abigail the widow of Nabal of Carmel;

the third, Absalom the son of Maakah daughter of Talmai king of Geshur;

⁴ the fourth, Adonijah the son of Haggith;

the fifth, Shephatiah the son of Abital;

⁵ and the sixth, Ithream the son of David’s wife Eglah.

These were born to David in Hebron.

   We don't hear about them in our Sunday School lessons or from the pulpit. In 2 Samuel 5

5 All the tribes of Israel came to David at Hebron and said, “We are your own flesh and blood. ² In the past, while Saul was king over us, you were the one who led Israel on their military campaigns. And the Lord said to you, ‘You will shepherd my people Israel, and you will become their ruler.’”

³ When all the elders of Israel had come to King David at Hebron, the king made a covenant with them at Hebron before the Lord, and they anointed David king over Israel.
  Tomorrow we will talk about David reigning in Jerusalem and overcoming the Jebusites, who lived there.  Hope you enjoyed this part of the lesson. Love you all.
In Christ's Love and Grace
Johnny

Saul and the Monarchy (1 Samuel 16-31)

Hello brothers and sisters in Christ. God is good all the time, all the time God is good.

   Yesterday we read about Saul disobeying Samuel who gave the word of God.  He violated God's law (1 Sam. 13), made a foolish vow (1 Sam 14:24-45), and disobeyed God a second time (1 Sam. 15).

   Now we will look at Saul once again, a man chosen of God, who disobeyed God and because of his sins God was sorry he made him king.

   The first thing to happen was that Saul's army was at a stand off with the Philistines.  David came, heard what was happening and was angered that Goliath was indignant and defying the army of the living God.  Goliath taunted the people of Israel and acted as if the LORD did not exist.

   David chose to face Goliath as David knew the living God was on the side of Israel.  Goliath was using psychological warfare as he was nearly 10 feet tall and very commanding.

  David told Saul of his experiences and with his faith persuaded Saul to let him face Goliath.  David took a sling, 5 smooth rocks, and God to face Goliath.

   Goliath laughed and scoffed at David who came out to face him.  Well, we know the story, but do you know why David had 5 stones?  Not because David thought he would miss, but because Goliath had brothers, 1 smooth stone for each.  Confidence in God!

   So, what happened after David killed Goliath?  He became a great warrior for Saul.......but.............

• (1 Sam. 18:5-9) Saul is jealous of David's military victories
• (1 Sam 18: 17-25) Hoped the Philistines would kill David
•  (1 Sam 19:9-10) Saul tried to spear David
• (1 Sam 19:11) Saul sent men to David's house to kill him
•  (1 Sam 20:30) Saul told Jonathan (Saul's son) David had to die or else Jonathan would not be the next king
• (1 Sam 23:25) Saul and his army pursued David

  David honored God with his actions and did not kill Saul as he refused to do harm to God's anointed.  Many times Saul said, "I have sinned" or "I am sorry" but did not do anything to show true repentance.  Saul's jealousy and hatred of David became the obsession that ruined his life.
   Saul got rid of the mediums and witches in the land of Israel and banned soothsayers according to the law in Deuteronomy 18:10-11. Later on, he violated his own law by seeking the witch of Endor.  Saul wanted a message from God, but because of his actions and personal rebellion against God, God had departed from him.
  (1 Sam 31:1-6) In battle the enemy wounded Saul, and rather than fall into the hands of the Philistines, he fell on his own sword.  Jonathan died in the same battle.  The record of Saul's death is in 2 Sam. 1:1-10.
 When you read these two passages note that the young Amalekite gave a different story, probably made up to win David's favor and profit from the deaths.  David did mourn at the news of Saul's death and Jonathan's death.
   Jonathan, Saul's son, and David were true friends. Saul said as long as David lived, Jonathan would never be king, therefore seeking to kill David.  Jonathan put aside his ambitions and showed his true friendship to David.  Jonathan was loyal to his friend as we should be loyal to the LORD.  Thank you for reading. Love you all.
In Christ's Love and Grace,
Johnny

Saul and the Monarchy (1 Samuel 8-15)

Good morning all. God is good all the time, all the time God is good.

  Saul, Israel's first king, was effective at first, but later failed to live up to God's high ideal for Israel's king.

   The Elders told Samuel his son's were not fit to lead Israel and they wanted a king as the other nations who would lead them into battle.  They wanted a strong leader who would bring all the tribes together and be united.

   Samuel saw this as a rejection of the LORD as king.  Samuel served as Israel's leader, knowing that the true leader was the LORD, the true king of Israel.  Samuel told them by doing so they were rejecting God as their king.

  God brought Saul to Samuel and showed that HE has chosen Saul to be king.  In 1 Samuel, chapter 10-12 you can see all this come to life. To listen to these chapters click here.

   These three chapters show:  Saul's transforming experience with the prophetes (10:6-7); his "heart experience upon leaving Samuel (:9);  Saul's anointing by the Spirit of God (11:6); the victory over the Ammonites (11:11); the promise of God (12:14); God's faithfulness to His purpose (12:22).  And all this was great --- however ---  Saul began his fall from grace.

   Saul failed because he refused to obey God.  In 1 Samuel 13:1-14 you can see where Saul started his downward spiral.  Saul waited for Samuel to come and bless the army by offering a sacrifice.  Saul's troops began to desert and he panicked. Saul offered a sacrifice in disobedience to God's command as this was a duty assigned only to God's priests.  Mistake number one.

   Number two - Saul made a foolish vow (1 Samuel 14:24-45). In the midst of battle he vowed that anyone who ate before the battle was completed would be put to death.  His son, Jonathan, heard not this vow and when he and his men came upon some wild honey after a day of fighting they partook.  Saul's men knew their victory was owed to Jonathan and finally talked Saul out of the vow to put Jonathan to death.

   Mistake number three: after defeating the Amalekites, whom she was to spare no one or any livestock, they let king Agag and some prize livestock survive. (1 Samuel 15).  At this point the LORD came to Samuel saying "I am grieved that I have made Saul king" (1 Sam. 15:11)  Saul turned away from following God.

  When Samuel confronted Saul with his disobedience, Saul justified his actions by claiming the soldiers had taken the animals for a sacrifice to God.  Samuel made certain God wanted obedience, not sacrifice.  Because of Saul's disobedience God rejected Saul as king.

   Think about some of Saul's excuses that we use today as well:

• we excuse our sins
• accuse others of being responsible for sins we have done
• care more about appearances that being right with God
• do we 'redo' God's commandment to make them fit our life
• sometimes we deny our sins

  Yes, we can justify by saying this is human nature; justifying is a way to ease our conscience and we still know we did wrong.  Being obedient to God is paramount to anything else.  Take heart fellow Christians, we are white because of the red blood of Jesus. Love you all.
In Christ's Love and Grace
Johnny

Is God first in your life? Exodus 20:3

Good morning all. God is good all the time, all the time God is good.  Just a slight deviation from the Old Testament today.

    Exodus 20:3  "YOU SHALL HAVE NO OTHER GODS BEFORE ME!"

What are your priorities?  Mornings?  get up, shower, get dressed, breakfast or coffee, go to work, come home, get into relax clothes, putter around (hobby, clean house, wash car, etc), watch some tv, dinner, more tv, go to bed.

   What is missing here in our priorities?

          G            O             D

When God should be the main focus of our lives, HE, who holds our eternal destination in HIS hands, yet HE is not even on our radar.  What truely, then, will be the quality of our life.  vive por el momento   Live for the moment is many peoples attitude.  Don't look ahead or around, just plunder on, pleasing ourselves at the moment.

   Many times we distance ourselves from God by worshipping such things as earthly possessions or personal gratification......then we suffer.

  Exodus tells us to put no Gods before HIM, yet we do.  By doing so, we will suffer the consequences.

  Satan rushes in to encourage us to place our desires for material possessions above our love for the Father - we fall to the temptations bringing complications in our lives.  Does God rule over your heart and your home?

A PERSON'S SPIRITUAL HEALTH IS EXACTLY PROPORTIONAL TO HIS LOVE FOR GOD.  (c.s. lewis)

   Kay Arthur says, "Make God's will the focus of your life day by day. If you seek to please Him and Him alone, you'll find yourself satisfied with life."

As you establish priorities for your day and your life, God deserves first place. And you deserve he experience of putting Him there.  Love you all.

In Christ's Love and Grace

Johnny

1 Samuel 4 - Fight with Philistines; then Samuel as priest

Good morning all. God is good all the time, all the time God is good.  Count your blessings and praise God for all HE has given you and carried you through.

  If you will read in 1 Samuel 4: 1-3,10-11,12-18; you will find these facts concerning Israel and the Philistines.

   First the Philistines came to take Israel in battle, Israel struggled, then they went to get the Ark of the Lord and took it into battle with them.  Why?  Because they thought it would bring them "good luck", a lucky charm if you will.  However, because the Ark was there, the LORD was not with them.  Now recall, Eli, the priest who led Israel had wicked sons who showed disregard and no respect for the LORD. Well, with the Ark, the Philistines at first were afraid because they knew how God had delivered them Hebrews from Egypt.  Then they were spurred on to fight and killed 30,000 Israelites and Eli's sons.

   The Ark was not a good luck charm, God had to be with the Ark for there to be HIS power, therefore, because of this battle, the Ark fell into the hands of the Philistines. 

   When word came to Eli that his sons died in the battle he did not seem as affected as when he was told the Ark was in the hands of the Philistines.  At this word he fell backwards, broke his neck and died.  Eli had led the Israelites for 20 years, and this fate fell upon him as he was not strong enough to control his sons who perverted and scoffed at the LORD and his laws.  There ends the saga of Eli, but who should be coming along now but Samuel.

   Israel was under the Philistines for 20 years (1 Sam.7-12) when they were afflicted and returned the Ark of Israel (1 Sam 5-6).  At this time the people began to turn to Samuel saying they wanted to seek the LORD.  Samuel performed his priestly duty by leading the people of Israel to turn away from other gods and to serve God alone.

  Notice the returning theme here: Do evil in eyes of God; enslaved; cry out to God for salvation; and then delivered.  Well, the people repented of their sins and turned to the LORD, who blessed them and gave them victory over the Philistines.

  After this victory over the Philistines Samuel placed a stone near Mizpah and called the name of the stone Ebenezer, a words which literally means "STONE OF HELP"!  The stone reminded the people that God had been their help in defeating their enemy and would continue to help them in years to come.

   Samuel also served as a judge.  As a judge, Samuel helped the people settle disputes and solve their problems.  He rode a circuit in his service as judge, going between four towns in Israel - Bethel, Gilgal, Mizpah, and Ramah (his home).

   Next we will move into the Monarchy of Saul (1 Samuel 8-15).  Thank you for reading. Love you all.

In Christ's Love and Grace

Johnny

1 Samuel 1-3 -- -- Eli's fate and Samuel's calling

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

   God does work in ways of which we do not always understand.  However, when we look back we can say, Oh, God orchestrated that!  One thing that is hard for us to do is accept the fruits of our labor ----if they are bad fruits.

   Once Samuel was weaned he was given to Eli to study and learn about the LORD.  Now, Eli's son's were very rebellious against Eli and the LORD.  They had no regard for the LORD himself (1 Sam. 2:12); they treated the offerings of the LORD with contempt by not handling it according to God's law (1 Sam. 2:17); and they slept with the women who served at the entrance to the tent, showing their immorality and disregard for worship and worshippers (1 Sam. 2:23).

   This would come to haunt Eli and his sons as the sons did evil in the eyes of the LORD.  However, Samuel was refreshing to Eli as he was a direct 180 from Eli's sons.  In 1 Samuel 2:26 you will see where Samuel grew in stature, grew in favor of the LORD, and grew in favor of the people.  Also, understand that Samuel slept in the same dwelling place as Eli.  Next comes the call of Samuel by God.

  1 Samuel 3:7-18 God calls Samuel.  Samuel hears God calling but thinks it is Eli and runs to him.  The third time Eli realized God was calling Samuel and told him to say "Speak, your servant is listening", of which he did.  It was at this point that God revealed what would happen to Eli and his sons because of the sons evil.

   Eli asked Samuel what the LORD said, Samuel was hesitant, but Eli said to Samuel, “Do not hide it from me. May God deal with you, be it ever so severely, if you hide from me anything he told you.”  So Samuel revealed everything.

   Now here is a part we need to learn from. Once Eli heard this he said:
“He is the Lord; let him do what is good in his eyes.”  What a lesson in obedience and faith.

   God blessed the ministry of Samuel (1 Sam. 3:19-21) and as he grew the LORD blessed him.  All the people who heard recognized Samuel as God's prophet because of God's blessing His message through him.

   Eli and Samuel - great lessons for us to learn to be obedient to God, listen to God, and accept what God is giving us (good or bad).  Samuel will continue on in the next lessons.  If you want to read more go to the Bible or my blog.  Love you all.

In Christ's Love and Grace

Johnny

The next major judge - Jephthah (part 2)

Good morning all. God is good all the time, all the time God is good. 

  We ended with Gideon on Friday. Today we start with Jephthah (Judges 10:6-12:7)  Now you know God does not always use the person we would have chosen.  Here is Jephthah, see his coming into this world, and his burden to bear because of his mother: 

11 Jephthah the Gileadite was a mighty warrior. His father was Gilead; his mother was a prostitute. ² Gilead’s wife also bore him sons, and when they were grown up, they drove Jephthah away. “You are not going to get any inheritance in our family,” they said, “because you are the son of another woman.” ³ So Jephthah fled from his brothers and settled in the land of Tob, where a gang of scoundrels gathered around him and followed him.

  Jephthah was driven out, when the Ammonites were fighting against Israel, the elders of Israel came and said be our leader.  He questioned them about being run off.  The elders basically said, all that is over, come now and we want you to be our leader.  He did, and he repeated all his words before the Lord in Mizpah.

  On the way they defeated the Amorites and sent a message to the Ammonites.  Upon going into battle Jephthah made an impulsive and devastating covenant with God. Here is his vow to the Lord: “If you give the Ammonites into my hands, ³¹ whatever comes out of the door of my house to meet me when I return in triumph from the Ammonites will be the Lord’s, and I will sacrifice it as a burnt offering.”   

Upon returning victorious: ³⁴ When Jephthah returned to his home in Mizpah, who should come out to meet him but his daughter, dancing to the sound of timbrels! She was an only child.    Because of his vow, he did sacrifice his daughter. She asked for 2 months to go into the hills with her friends to weep as she will never marry and was a virgin.  This brought about Israelite tradition that each year the young women of Israel go out for four days to commemorate the daughter of Jephthah the Gileadite.

  A sad, but yet great day as Jephthah was obedient to God and followed up with his vow (V31).  Next comes Samson, and most of us know the story, but let us dig a little deeper.  See you tomorrow.  Love you all.

In Christ's Love and Grace

Johnny

1 Samuel 1 - Hannah

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

   Take time to read 1 Samuel 1.  However, if you don't have time (or think you don't) to read it click here to hear 1 Samuel 1, listen to the story about Hannah.

   Hannah was sad, resided in the house of sorrow as she had no child; also she was constantly provoked by Peninnah, the other wife of Elkanah-who had children.

  The power of prayer and faithfulness; believing without doubt. Hannah prayed at the temple, Eli the priest thought she was drunk, she said no that she was praying.

   Eli told her - her prayers were heard and the LORD would grant her the prayer.  Hannah had not be eating as she had tended to remain in a state of sorrow; however, after the prayer and talk with Eli she went away, ate, and laid with Elkanah and then was with child.  She said in her prayer that if given a child she would dedicate him to the LORD.

   Here is the power of prayer and heart.  God knew her heart; heard her prayer, and granted her her prayer.  In her prayer of dedicating the child to GOD she did not return to the temple until the child was weaned.  Also, She named him Samuel, saying, “Because I asked the Lord for him.”

   Upon being weaned they took sacrifices and Samuel to the house of the LORD and Samuel stayed at the house of the LORD with Eli.

   Hannah was faithful, had a faithful heart, and GOD rewarded her with a child, and after Samuel she bore more children.  How faithful is your heart and are your prayers without question?  Food for thought.  Love you all.

In Christ's Love and Grace

Johnny

Ruth - ancestor of David

Good morning all. God is good all the time, all the time God is good.

   Ruth - The book of Ruth shows David's Moabite blood.  This reveals that Ruth is David's ancestor, shows that God loves and care for all people, even non-Israelites.

   The setting of the Book of Ruth is the time of the judges.  The book of Ruth was written at a later date and this is evidenced in Ruth 4:7 --  ⁷ (Now in earlier times in Israel, for the redemption and transfer of property to become final, one party took off his sandal and gave it to the other. This was the method of legalizing transactions in Israel.)

   This phrase suggests that this custom no longer was practiced in Israel when the book of Ruth was written.  Then, as we read along we find that as Ruth was obedient to her mother in law, Naomi, she marries Boaz, a relative of Naomi, and through this uniting she bears a son.  Ruth 4:17 - ¹⁷ The women living there said, “Naomi has a son!” And they named him Obed. He was the father of Jesse, the father of David.

     Now, if you recall, in ancient times it was important for the women to bear a son for the husband and the eldest was to inherit the major portion of the estate.

  Here is a quick summary of Ruth:

•  Naomi and her family moved from Judah to Moab
• Naomi lived in a foreign land for 10 years.
• Naomi was bitter because she had suffered the loss of her husband and sons
• Naomi encouraged her daughters-in-law to stay in Moab
• Ruth insisted on remaining with Naomi
• Ruth gleaned in fields belonging to Boaz who was kin to Naomi's husband Elimelech
• After Ruth was married (to Boaz) and bore a son, Naomi's friends cited her blessings from God

And there you have Ruth in a nutshell.  Thank you for reading, tomorrow we will begin in Samuel.  Have a wonderful and blessed day. Love you all.
In Christ's Love and Grace
Johnny