God, the true Gentleman - Luke 11:13 - James 4:2

 

Good morning all. God is good all the time, all the time God is good. BE BLESSED, ENJOY CHRIST AT CHRISTMAS!!!!

   God sent his only BEGOTTEN SON so that we may have eternal life.  However, have you ever thought of GOD as the only true GENTLEMAN?

  God sent Jesus to offer us a way of salvation or life eternal and Jesus left us the Holy Spirit as our GPS (God Positioning System).  Jesus, the son of God came to earth and was the son of man to experience our woes and no's with a path to salvation.  BUT, GOD, knowing us, earthly humans, offered us free will.  We can choose to accept the offering of Jesus or not accept it.

  God, being the true gentleman, does not force this upon us.  Remember, HE is our father in heaven; similar to our father's on earth.  My earthly father wanted the best for me, helped me over barriers when I did not know what to do, but I had the option to listen and follow his word/advice or not.  Unfortunately, I did not heed his word enough and that created many rocky roads for me in my 73 years on this earth.

   Well, God does the same.  He gives us the Holy Spirit to help us through life; often we listen to the spirit and, again, many times we do not.  But God is always there, to help us through and all we have to do is call out to him.  In my 46 years as a son of God I do fail to listen and follow HIS word/advice and, yes, in return, it creates rocky roads.  HOWEVER, I know HE is there and I just need to stop, be still, and listen.

   I cannot use the scapegoat of "well, we are human but saved through Jesus and my sins are forgiven". That simply is a rationalization we earthly beings like to use as our excuse.  THERE IS NO EXCUSE!  The Bible is our guide, GOD is our father, and if we listen, let the Holy Spirit (GPS) lead, we will be okay and live eternally.

   Here are 2 scriptures that come alongside what I am chirping about.

Luke 11: ¹³ If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children: how much more shall your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to them that ask him?

Jame 4: ² Ye lust, and have not: ye kill, and desire to have, and cannot obtain: ye fight and war, yet ye have not, because ye ask not.

  Remember, GOD IS A TRUE GENTLEMAN AND ONLY GOES WHERE HE IS INVITED!  I hope you followed my rambling. Love you all.

In Christ's Love and grace

Johnny

John 3:16

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

  You may hear people or preachers that don't quote scripture correctly.  When this happens it is possible to mislead people who are either being witnessed to or in the discussion and interpretation of the Word of God.

  This morning I heard a preacher quote John 3:16 that (please note the error) 16 “For God so loved the world that He gave His only forgotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

  The scripture DOES NOT SAY FORGOTTEN!! Here is the actual King James Version: 16 “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

  The word is "begotten" not forgotten.  There is a big difference between the two.  To be forgotten is the knowledge of that person or thing is no longer, it is lost, and one can no longer remember.

  BUT, BEGOTTEN is speaking of someone who is brought into existence and will inherit the land or kingdom of the father.

  This is JESUS and we must remember, HE is the BEGOTTEN SON OF GOD, not forgotten, and HE will return to INHERIT HIS LAND (earth) and establish HIS KINGDOM!!

  Jesus is the reason for this season and we need to remember HE IS THE BEGOTTEN SON who will return to claim HIS INHERITANCE!!  

  When you quote the Bible or paraphrase the Bible be certain that you quote correctly.  Thank you for reading and may your week be blessed, not worrying about gifts, but thinking of the LOVE that GOD HAS FOR YOU!!  Love y'all.

In Christ's Love and Grace

Johnny

p.s. don't forget John 3:17 ---17 For God sent not His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved.

  

What is Christmas to you? Jesus? The bread of Life? John 6:35

 

Merry Christmas!!  God is good all the time, all the time God is good. TOO BLESSED TO COMPLAIN!!

  What is Christmas to you?  What great memories do you have of Christmas years gone past?

   For me, growing up what I remember most about Christmas was the excitement I had about new toys and gifts.  What about Jesus?  Oh, we went to church, but for me----I did not think about Jesus----only the new gifts and playing with my cousins.

  For my sister and I, we would rise early in the morning, way before light, and look to see what Santa had brought us.  Then we would play with those toys until time to go to grandma and grandpa Osolin's house.  These were my mother's parents.

   All her siblings and their families would gather at grandma's to finish preparing Christmas meal. Grandma still cooked on a wood burning stove and she had a gas stove as well.  It all smelled wonderful.  When it was time I can only remember seeing my dad and uncles drink this one time.  They would take a bottle of whiskey, Jack Daniels I think, and pass it around to all the men.  The men would take a drink out of the bottle, pass it on to the next man until it returned to where it started.  They may have had a second drink, not totally certain, but that was the last time I would see the whiskey.  Where did it go?  Heaven only knows. LOL

  A prayer was offered, and then the kids would eat and they would send us on the way and the parents would all eat and fellowship.  All of us cousins would take off in a certain path and go to each others homes to see their toys. First the Bakers, then Osolins, Fischers, Holcomb's and back to grandma's house for supper.

  Then often we would go to the show and see a Christmas day movie at the local theater.  Everything in EADS, Co. was within walking distance and it was a day of excitement.

   Where was Jesus in this day of festivities?  Oh, He was there, but we, I, just failed to acknowledge Him.  Looking back, I wish we, I, would have thought more about Jesus and our salvation, yet it was a great time growing up.

  Today, at a more mature age, I am more in tune with Jesus, what HE did for ME, and that God has guided my steps, corrected the bad ones, and moved me to where I am today.  For this I am thankful.  Jesus is my savior, HE shed HIS blood just for me, and I know eternity will be more than wonderful.

   Please remember what Jesus said in John 6: ³⁵ Then Jesus declared, “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never go hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty".

 The toys, fellowship, fun and excitement pales in comparison to what Jesus has done for us.  Our salvation should be the excitement of our lives!  Thanks for taking time to be with me today.

I would love to hear your story. Love you all.

In Christ's Love and Grace

Johnny

Christians or Evangelist?

 Good morning all.  God is good all the time, all the time God is good.  YOU ARE BLESSED, DON'T BE STRESSED AT CHRISTMAS SEASON!!!

  Well, here is the question?  When are you a Christian and when are you an Evangelist?  

  So often we put ourselves in categories such as a Christian or an Evangelist.  This should not be the case.  Here is my simple and honest belief and opinion.

   I am a Christian when I am in my closet praying, doing my Bible study, and in church worshiping.  When I step out of these boundaries, then I become an Evangelist and should tell others about Jesus Christ, salvation, and eternal life.

  Psalm 96:3 Declare his glory among the nations, his marvelous works among all the peoples!

  Matthew 28:19 Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,

  Soooooo, this is my belief, opinion, and interpretation.  Let me know what you think.

   Merry Christmas, love y'all, and thanks for reading.

Johnny

Hmmmmm.........interesting how our Christian life is like a gym membership!

 

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

  As I was driving and listening to my Christian radio station I started thinking about Christmas and what most people everywhere do.  During the Christmas season we hustle, bustle, move into crowded lines, get angry at other drivers, don't know why people are so rude. (as if we are not at the time)

  Then, once we get home, we hang out our sign, "Jesus is the reason for the season", and we go about  smiling, being friendly, and loving our neighbors (when away from the crowds).

   We pull out our Bible, some of which have not been touched since Christmas last year, or possibly Easter and we become that good, friendly and loving Christian.

  Here we go, we are on "FIRE" for GOD!  Let's git'r boys, Jesus is great, we need to pray, go to church and be a good Christian. BUT, how long does this FIRE last?

   It reminds me so much of gym memberships.  We eat too much, way too much over thanksgiving and Christmas.  Then we join a gym in January (they all have specials to join) and we plan to git'r dun, however, after.......oh......3 or 4 weeks, maybe a little longer,  we either don't have the time or the desire to go anymore.

    Wow!!!  Does that ever parallel many Christians life?  So what can we do about it?  Nothing?  Well, when someone 'new' comes in, greet and meet them and see if you can be an "accountability buddy" with them.  Noooo, don't call it that, but just befriend them, show Jesus' love, kindness, and remain humble. Invite them to participate in various items with you and let your JESUS HANG OUT!

  When you go to the gym and are lifting weights you like to have a buddy we call a spotter.  Plus, it is more enjoyable with 2 or more working together.This is what we should do in our Christian walk - pair up     (no, not like the JW's do) but have a buddy or buddies to fellowship with.

  How do we show our Christian spirit and love one another?  By encouraging each other; praying for one another, being humble, serve others willingly, live at peace with one another (don't be the ole sore head), show forgiveness, and don't badmouth (gossip) about others, be truthful and bear one anothers burdens.

  In conclusion we should remember:  LOVE NEVER FAILS!!!!!

   Scriptures?  Okay- here are the scriptures to each of the above mentioned attributes: https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20thessalonians%204%3A18%3B%20Luke%2023%3A34%3B%20James%205%3A16%3B%20Philippians%202%3A3%3B%20Galatians%205%3A13%2C%2025%3B%20Ephesians%204%3A32%2C%2025%3B%20James%205%3A9%3B%20%20Matthew%2011%3A28-30%3B%20Galatians%206%3A2%3B%201%20Corinthians%2013%3A4-8&version=NIV;KJV

  When you have time, read each scripture and relate it to yourself.  Love you all and have a MERRY CHRISTMAS!!

In Christ's Love and Grace

Johnny

A final charge to Timothy and us - 2 Timothy 3:10-17

 Hello Christian Friends.  God is good all the time, all the time God is good.  TOO BLESSED TO COMPLAIN!!!!

   Paul gives a final charge to Timothy before he becomes a martyr for Christ.  It would behoove us to read, absorb, and take note of what Paul tells Timothy.  This letter applies to us as well.  I will insert comments in the scripture.

2 Timothy 3:10 You, however, know all about my teaching, my way of life, my purpose, faith, patience, love, endurance, 11 persecutions, sufferings—what kinds of things happened to me in Antioch, Iconium and Lystra, the persecutions I endured. Yet the Lord rescued me from all of them.  Verse 10/11 talk to us about way of life. Paul went through persecutions and sufferings yet God rescued him.  He will do the same for us when we go through the tough times.

 12 In fact, everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted,  Verse 12 is not exactly what we wish to hear, but it is true and if we look around in America it is becoming more obvious. The encouraging news comes in verse 13.

 13 while evildoers and impostors will go from bad to worse, deceiving and being deceived. Evil doers go from bad to worse.  We see this today in America.  The smash and grab situations in California; the dumming down of the morals in America. The good news is we are closer to seeing Jesus Christ return. Yea!!!

14 But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have become convinced of, because you know those from whom you learned it, 15 and how from infancy you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.  We have learned and know what we should do as the scriptures lead us.  Infancy, we all started out as infants in Christ and are still growing as was Timothy.

 16 All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, 17 so that the servant of God[a] may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.  We need to study our scripture to help us go forth and be good witnesses for Jesus. We will know what to say, when to say, and how to say it.  Of Course the Holy Spirit is leading us as we go. 

Well, thank you for reading with me. May your weekend be wonderful and blessed. Love you all.'

In Christ's Love and Grace

Johnny

2 Timothy 3:1-9 The scripture says it all!!!!

 Good morning all. God is good all the time, all the time God is good!  Complain not, for God is at hand and in control!

  As you read these verses please reflect on the events happening in America and around the world today.  Also, do a reflection of your personal attitude.

  A side note on Jannes and Jambres mentioned in these verses.  They were Pharaoh's chief magicians.  The Jewish Talmud records these men as men who left with the Israelites after passover and then were instrumental in creating the Golden Calf with Aaron while Moses was on the mountain.  However, this is not recorded in the Bible as the inspired word, but as history in the Talmud.  In the Talmud were the Mishnah and the Gemara. The Mishnah is the original written version of the oral law and the Gemara is the record of the rabbinic discussions following this writing down. It includes their differences of view. Take it for what it is worth.

  Here is the scripture: 2 Timothy 3:

1But mark this: There will be terrible times in the last days. 2 People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, 3 without love, unforgiving, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not lovers of the good, 4 treacherous, rash, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God— 5 having a form of godliness but denying its power. Have nothing to do with such people. 6 They are the kind who worm their way into homes and gain control over gullible women, who are loaded down with sins and are swayed by all kinds of evil desires, 7 always learning but never able to come to a knowledge of the truth. 8 Just as Jannes and Jambres opposed Moses, so also these teachers oppose the truth. They are men of depraved minds, who, as far as the faith is concerned, are rejected. 9 But they will not get very far because, as in the case of those men, their folly will be clear to everyone.

   Thank you for reading with me today.  In all this we must remember that Jesus Christ is Lord; God is in control; and the Holy Spirit is here with us.  Love you all.

In Christ's Love and Grace

Johnny

Who is Phygellus and Hermogenes? 2 Timothy 1:7 and 15; 2 Timothy 2:3

 Hello friend.  God is good all the time, all the time God is good. YOU ARE BLESSED-----DON'T COMPLAIN JUST PRAISE GOD!!!!!

  Okay, so Paul is writing this letter to Timothy whom he calls his son in the faith. Paul is encouraging Timothy to stay strong in faith and follow the Holy Spirit.

  Now, Phygellus, whose name means fugitive and Hermogenes, whose name signifies "lucky born".  Well, the names are fitting and we'll see that later.

  2 Timothy 1: 15 This thou knowest, that all those who are in Asia have turned away from me, among whom are Phygellus and Hermogenes.

  First, many of the churches in Asia had not disbanded nor turned away from being "Christian", however, they did turn away from the doctrine of GRACE.  They brought legalism back in.

  Well, Phygellus, a fugitive, rebelled or turned away from Paul's teaching of grace and following the Holy Spirit.  Hermogenes, a man who was well off, well educated, and felt he did not need the Lord. 

  It is interesting that Paul, in his writings and last 3 epistles mentioned 34 people and number 14 and 15 were Phygellus and Hermogenes.   Hermogenes, being well thought of, wealthy, and chose to go another way was led by Phygellus, fugitive, and he footed the bill for everything.  Interesting how this really is relevant to today's world as well.  Satan turned their hearts away from God and into themselves.

  The warning here to Timothy and to us is we need not fear nor be led astray but remember the Holy Spirit is here to lead and guide us.  We have many temptations lying in wait to attack us, the Christians of the world, and we must be strong. Jesus left us the power to overcome with the guidance of the Holy Spirit and we must do so.  (2 Timothy verses)

  2 Timothy 1: 7 For God hath not given us the spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.

  We, you and I, Christians, will encounter problems in our Spiritual life, BUT, we must meet them head on with the Holy Spirit leading us and be a good soldier.  At the end we need to hear those famous words, "well done good and faithful servant".

  2 Timothy 2: 3 Endure thou therefore hardship as a good soldier of Jesus Christ.

   The whole point I am trying to make here is that we need to stay the course, hardships or smooth sailing we never get complacent or give up.  God has sent the comforter, Holy Spirit, to be with us always.  Be not as Phygellus or Hermogenes and turn away, but, be strong as is Paul and Timothy.  Thanks for reading. Love you all.

In Christ's Love and Grace

Johnny

Who is Onesiphorus [Ŏne sĭph'o rŭs] 2 Timothy 1:16-17

 

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

  Well, speaking of stress------many people this time of year become stressed and why?   We tend to forget the meaning of Christmas, actually, we change the meaning of Christmas where we briefly think about Jesus Christ and then go into shopping mode for Christmas.  In other words, we make Christmas a time to think about buying presents for grandma, grandpa, aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, children and then stress even further when fighting crowds and driving to shop.

   Maybe we need to step back and survey the real meaning of Christmas.  Oh, yes, you will have those who start to argue that December is not the time of Christ's birth, it is a pagan holiday, and on and on.

    Christmas is a time we should be thinking about why Jesus came, what HE did for us, and the joy of being in a relationship with JESUS CHRIST.  We should be more like Onesiphorus.  Who?  Who is that?

  well, dear friend, this was a man of whom Paul held in high esteem.  Let us look at the scripture and talk about it for a moment.

   2 Timothy 1:¹⁶ The Lord give mercy unto the house of Onesiphorus; for he oft refreshed me, and was not ashamed of my chain: ¹⁷ But, when he was in Rome, he sought me out very diligently, and found me.

  Paul is asking GOD to give mercy or bless the house of Onesiphorus.  Why?

First, he was quite kind many times to Paul (he oft refreshed me). We should show kindness to all around us, not just friends and family.

   Second, (not ashamed of my chain) Some of Paul's "friends" did not like associating with him since he was chained and in prison.  We should look past this barrier.  This is a big stumbling block for me personally, and I pray God helps me overcome it. We need to see people as a single person who needs a friend unconditionally.

  Third, (he sought me out very diligently), is there someone you should seek out, hunt down, fellowship with and do good will to and with?  Someone you should cheer up?  Then go, do it.  This is another of my short comings.

  Fourth, back to the first, we may not be able to bless or reward the people as necessary, but GOD can.  We must pray for God's blessings on others.

  I do hope we forget the spirit of shopping, fighting crowds, road rage, and remember the spirit of Onesiphorus.  This is closer to what Jesus would want us to do than shopping and buying things for others that they don't need or appreciate.   May JESUS be the center of your Christmas.  Thanks for reading. Love you all.

In Christ's Love and Grace

Johnny

p.s. tomorrow, are you as phygellus and hermogenes?

The GREAT Re-set, the GREAT CHRISTIAN RE-SET! Genesis6:9-9-17, Revelation19:11-16

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

  The GREAT Re-set, a CHRISTIAN re-set.  I am not talking about the "reset" that involves the billionaires and power people of this world.  I am talking about the power people of the UNIVERSE - aka OUR LIVING GOD.

   God is good, God is faithful, God is patient, God is loyal, God is always on time.  However, in today's world we are wondering what is going on and when will God return.

  In Genesis 6, starting with verse 9 we read: "12 And God looked upon the earth, and behold, it was corrupt; for all flesh had corrupted his way upon the earth.

13 And God said unto Noah, “The end of all flesh has come before Me, for the earth is filled with violence through them; and behold, I will destroy them with the earth.

   Okay, why did this happen?  God saw what?  That the earth was corrupt and what.......filled with violence!!

               Does this ring a bell about our world now? (aka smash and run)

   Then what?  God knew Noah was a RIGHTEOUS man. Now is a time for you and me to do a self examination; could or would we be there with Noah?

   God sees and knows what is going on, what has happened, and what will happen; the time is just not right for God to intervene.  Well, with Noah, God hit the RESET button and the earth started over with Noah's clan.

   So, when will the next reset button happen?  I can tell you that it will happen when...........wait for it...........when.......when.......GOD IS READY!

  And when it does all the world will know it!  How?  Because ALL will see-

Christ on a White Horse (Revelation)

11 Now I saw heaven opened, and behold, a white horse. And He who sat on him was called Faithful and True, and in righteousness He judges and makes war. 12 His eyes were like a flame of fire, and on His head were many crowns. He [a]had a name written that no one knew except Himself. 13 He was clothed with a robe dipped in blood, and His name is called The Word of God. 14 And the armies in heaven, clothed in [b]fine linen, white and clean, followed Him on white horses. 15 Now out of His mouth goes a [c]sharp sword, that with it He should strike the nations. And He Himself will rule them with a rod of iron. He Himself treads the winepress of the fierceness and wrath of Almighty God. 16 And He has on His robe and on His thigh a name written:

KING OF KINGS AND
LORD OF LORDS.

  This will the be second re-set-----When our Savior JESUS CHRIST returns on a white horse with the armies of heaven following right behind.  It will be a glorious day for the Christians living at that time.

  Huh?  Christians living at that time.....what do you mean?  That is a study, week or month long study in itself.  If you want to know do a deep study of Revelations. 

   So, Jesus returning is the second re-set.  But......there is a third re-set and that is in the Revelation study.  Just be ready for the second re-set------ Jesus Christ returning.  Thanks for reading.  Love you all.

In Christ's Love and Grace

Johnny

Don't drink the kool aid (don't be gullible), fear not - 2 Timothy 1:7

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

   With the corona virus there came wide spread "panic" when there really was no need.  Caution, YES, good doctors that knew what would work were told not to prescribe certain medicines.  We were to depend on the 'GOVERNMENT", which should always come with caution and suspect.  Ronald Regan is quoted as saying "The nine most terrifying words in the English language are: I'm from the Government, and I'm here to help. "

  Covid has a 97% recovery rate and America runs in fear.  When Ebola hit it had a fatality rate of 50% to 90%, yet no one ran in fear. 

  Pastor Samuel Rodriquez from California tells us not to drink the kool-aid, referring to the Jim Jones Jonestown episode in 1978,  We are to obey God's laws, AND, if the government goes against God's laws, we are not to sit quietly like a mouse, but stand up boldly and without fear for we know God is in control

  When corona hit, the governor of California proclaimed churches could not meet, nor could they meet in homes, and they could not sing hymns.  In other words he was trying to quiet, or squelch the church.  So, what did the churches in California do?  The most of them tucked tail, ran in the corner, and sat as quiet as a church mouse.  WHY???

  kjv-  2 Timothy1: 7 For God hath not given us the spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.

NIV- 2 Timothy 1:7 For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.

   There is a new strain of virus out, BUT, we must remain strong why?????  Because God gives us power, love, and self-discipline. 

    AND- GOD HATH NOT GIVEN US THE SPIRIT OF FEAR!!!!

  Fellow Christian, stand strong in the face of evil.  Bow only to the LIVING GOD, believe in the blood of salvation that Jesus shed just for you.  Be strong, walk boldly, and fear not. Love you all.

In Christ's Love and Grace

Johnny

Apollos Acts 18:24-28

Good morning all. God is good all the time, all the time God is good.  YOU ARE BLESSED, INDEED, TRULY BLESSED!!!!

  Last week I tried to push the fact that our faith may be small but grows; we are rushing like a river and must not become stagnant as is the Dead Sea.  Today I want to tell you about a man who had some knowledge, but not all the knowledge he needed to be a good disciple of Jesus Christ.

  This man is Apollos, a Jew, born in Alexandria and then went to Ephesus.  He was openly and boldly telling about the coming Messiah.  This man preached from the Old Testament and knew the way of John the Baptist.  In Acts 18 you will find a husband and wife team, Aquila and Priscilla, who heard Apollos speak.  Now rather than rebuke him openly and publicly, they invited him to their home.

  This was when they explained to him more accurately the way of God.  Once armed with this knowledge Apollos left Ephesus and went to Achaia with a letter welcoming him.  Once there he was a great help to the believers and vigorously refuted the Jews in public debate, proving from the scriptures that Jesus was the Christ.

   Why do I share this with you?  Because we, you and I, need to be armed with the scriptures and go forth as did Apollos, sharing the truth, the living God, and salvation through Jesus Christ.  We need not let our knowledge trickle down the Jordan into the Dead Sea and die.  My prayer for you and me is that we boldly go forth and share God's word with the WORLD!!!  Do your part. Love you all. Thank you for reading.  The scripture of Apollos follows:

  Acts 18: 24 Meanwhile a Jew named Apollos, a native of Alexandria, came to Ephesus. He was a learned man, with a thorough knowledge of the Scriptures. 25 He had been instructed in the way of the Lord, and he spoke with great fervor[a] and taught about Jesus accurately, though he knew only the baptism of John. 26 He began to speak boldly in the synagogue. When Priscilla and Aquila heard him, they invited him to their home and explained to him the way of God more adequately.

27 When Apollos wanted to go to Achaia, the brothers and sisters encouraged him and wrote to the disciples there to welcome him. When he arrived, he was a great help to those who by grace had believed. 28 For he vigorously refuted his Jewish opponents in public debate, proving from the Scriptures that Jesus was the Messiah.

In Christ's Love and Grace

Johnny

John 4::21-26 Do you know who you are talking to?

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

  Today is Sunday, the Sabbath for many, the day after Sabbath for many, and what is the sabbath for many.  Today is the time we need to STOP, SIT, READ YOUR BIBLE  and WORSHIP THE LIVING GOD!!!

   Jesus is the living water, today in John, Jesus is speaking to the Samaritan woman and his words are heavy with meaning.  Please read, mediate, and enjoy.

John 4: 21 Jesus said unto her, “Woman, believe Me, the hour cometh when ye shall neither on this mountain, nor yet at Jerusalem, worship the Father.

22 Ye worship ye know not what; we know what we worship, for salvation is of the Jews.

23 But the hour cometh and now is, when the true worshipers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth; for the Father seeketh such to worship Him.

24 God is a Spirit, and they that worship Him must worship Him in spirit and in truth.”

25 The woman said unto Him, “I know that Messiah cometh, who is called Christ. When He has come, He will tell us all things.”

26 Jesus said unto her, “I that speak unto thee am He.”

Reread the scripture, slowly, absorb, and realize what Jesus is saying to YOU!  Thank you for reading. Happy Sabbath! 

In Christ's Love and Grace

Johnny

River Jordan to Sea of Galilee to the Dead Sea

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

  Let's talk about my Christian life and your Christian life.  Just how do we flow?  That is a great question to be asked and answered.  The Jordan River, or often called the River Jordan was where Jesus was Baptized by John the Baptist.  The river is called Al-Shari"ah or Watering Place by Arabs, Christians, Jews and Muslims.

  This river flows about a total of 155 miles, first into the Sea of Galilee and then to the Dead Sea.  The Jordan River has provided abundant life for many who fished it.  Then it runs into the Sea of Galilee, which you know from Bible studies is where many fish sustained life for many Hebrews or Jews during Jesus' time.

  Then the river comes out of the Sea of Galilee and runs about 65 miles into the Dead Sea.  First, let me tell you that the Jordan River is the lowest river in elevation (388 feet below sea level) of any river, starting high but ends going into the Dead Sea at 1,410.8 feet  BELOW SEA LEVEL.

   Now I tell you this because many time our Christian life is like the river Jordan. We are full of life, going forth with the living waters, helping people, bringing life and hope to many.  But, then, slowly we begin to leave the sea of Galilee and travel down to the Dead Sea.

   Nothing lives in the Dead Sea.  Why?  Because the water goes NO WHERE, IT QUITS FLOWING.  Life gets shut down.  We need to be as the living flowing running waters of a river: Ezekiel 47: 9 And it shall come to pass that every thing that liveth, which moveth, whithersoever the rivers shall come, shall live. And there shall be a very great multitude of fish, because these waters shall come thither; for they shall be healed, and every thing shall live whither the river cometh.

   Life comes from the water, but we need to go further and remember what Jesus said to the woman at the well.  John 4: 10 Jesus answered and said unto her, “If thou knewest the gift of God and who it is that saith to thee, ‘Give Me to drink,’ thou wouldest have asked of Him, and He would have given thee living water.”

   This is what we long for and strive for---the living water!  The truth, the way, and the life through Jesus, the living water.  Revelation 22: Then the angel showed me the river of the water of life, as clear as crystal, flowing from the throne of God and of the Lamb. 

    Where does your river flow from?  From within or from the salvation through Jesus Christ?  To read more of Revelation 22:1-21 click the link.

   May your day be filled with living water and may your spread the joy of Jesus Christ as your savior.  Thank you for reading. Love you all.

In Christ's Love and Grace

Johnny

Acorn yesterday-----Salt today -- and Light

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

 Yesterday I talked about being the little nut, Acorn, and growing into a Big Oak Tree.  Today, let's look at what Jesus said about salt.

  Matthew 5: 13 “You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot.

  Let's relate this to our walk with the LORD.  When first saved you were probably "on fire" for the LORD and could not do enough or be around your Christian friends enough.  We accept the LORD JESUS as our saviour and then we must develop a relationship with Him.  So, when we were "on fire" we were riding an emotional high and lovin' it. (just like McDonalds).

  Then as time goes by the daily reading or studying of the Bible waned and the prayer time became less frequent.  So, were you losing the "saltiness"?  I think not so much as just putting the salt on the back shelf.  Well, now is the time to bring out the salt shaker, sprinkle it on and go forth.  

  Because of what Jesus did for us we can regain our saltiness as we are forgiven. In sayng this we must remain vigilante about not losing the flavor again.  Just stay in close relationship with Jesus and all will be well.

14 “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. 16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.

  Now is the time to remember your saltiness, take your LIGHT and let it be a beacon to other around you.  Not just to your Christian friends, but to all that may see you, come in contact with you, know you, or just see you from a far.

   Jesus said the second commandment is to love your neighbor as yourself and in doing so you will do two things: 1- glorify your Father in heaven; and 2-your light will shine so that others will want what you have (a relationship with the savior Jesus Christ).

  So, you crazy nut, go forth, be salty and let your light shine.  Thank you for reading today. Love you all.

In Christ's Love and Grace

Johnny

The ACORN - and our belief

 Good morning all. Yes, it has been 3 weeks since you last heard from me. I do apologize.  

GOD IS GOOD ALL THE TIME, ALL THE TIME GOD IS GOOD!!!

  Thus we must not forget.

Our belief!!  How strong is it?  You know the mighty oak started out as a little nut we call the ACORN.  Is your relationship and belief in GOD doing the same?

  The ACORN is a sign of prosperity and good luck.  Well, in the Christian world we know there is no "Good Luck", but rather "GOD's in Control".  

  The acorn/oak symbolied in the Bible represents God's promise.  The best is yet to come and we need to hold on to HIM and let go of our finite understanding.  God sees and knows all, past, present, and future.

  The Acorn is seen as a symbols of growth and unlimited potential.  THIS WE ALL HAVE WITHIN US! 

   However, so often we let what we know push us back, and forget to hold on to GOD for our guidance.  One acorn can grow into a massive tree, and so may our belief.  We have had many "Big Oaks" spiritually before us - C.J. Lewis, Spurgeon, Billy Graham, and many more.

  The Big Oak is considered  a symbol of strength, morale, resistance and knowledge.

  Where do you sit right now, today, in the faith of the Father?  Dependence on HIM or yourself?

  Should we all be as the Oaks of Bashan - known for its rich pastures and thick forests?  It was also the great granary of the Roman Empire.  Much is said about the Oak in the Bible, AND, the Oak is found all around the world.  This is what we must do, spread the gospel to all in the world.

Isaiah 2: 13 and upon all the cedars of Lebanon that are high and lifted up, and upon all the oaks of Bashan; 14 and upon all the high mountains, and upon all the hills that are lifted up; 15 and upon every high tower, and upon every fortified wall; 16 and upon all the ships of Tarshish, and upon all pleasant sights.  17 And the loftiness of man shall be bowed down, and the haughtiness of men shall be made low; and the Lord alone shall be exalted in that day,

  Well, I do hope all this makes sense to you.  I have been just the seed of an Acorn lately, failing to germinate.  However, God is moving me to be strong, germinate, and go forth.  May HE do the same for you.  Sorry it has been so long.  Thanks for reading. Love you all.

In Christ's Love and Grace

Johnny

Closet or dark secrets WILL BE REVEALED- Luke 8:17; Daniel 2:22; Mark 4:22

 

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

  As we travel through this life, watch tv, or just listen to people we find that LIES are the norm.  What?  What are you talking about?  Have you ever asked your spouse what is wrong and they say nothing.  Something is, but they just don't want to reveal it.  You watch tv and whether sit coms or dramas the problem usually exists around a lie or something not told which we call SECRETS!

  Whether we like it or not, my secrets, your secrets, aka lies will be known.  Let me give you an example of one that caught me.  Often after taking some of my pills and vitamins in the morning I need something on my stomach.  So, often on my way to the gym (you will see the irony here) I would stop and get an old fashioned donut with chocolate. (yep, calories and going to the gym).

  Well, one morning I was feeling I needed something, my wife was with me and I said I was going to stop and get an old fashioned.  To make it look better I ordered a regular one with no chocolate.  When the lady brought it to the window she said, "this is regular, you usually get chocolate, it this okay" to which I replied yes.

  Oh, yeah, my wife looked at me and says, "so she knows you and you usually get chocolate"?  My little secret was now out in the open.  This, however, was a humorous moment, but many have serious other secrets.  Pornography, unfaithful, lust, lies, stealing, etc. and think they will never be caught.  We just forget one major thing:  GOD SEES AND KNOWS ALL!!!!

  Read the verses below and just know that God will reveal to the light what you think you have hidden in the darkness.

Luke 8:17  For nothing is hidden that will not be made manifest, nor is anything secret that will not be known and come to light.

Daniel 2:22  He reveals deep and hidden things; he knows what is in the darkness, and the light dwells with him.

Mark 4:22  For nothing is hidden except to be made manifest; nor is anything secret except to come to light

Jesus is the light and HE reveals all that is in the darkness.  Take time to confess your "secrets" to God, ask forgiveness, and repent (which means to walk away from that sin).  Thank you for reading with me today. Love y'all.

In Christ's Love and Grace

Johnny

Do you receive what you deserve? Job 34:10-12

 

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

  As we look around and see the "EVIL" that is prevalent in our nation and world we become bewildered, frustrated, angry, confused, and wonder why?  Why?  Where did the common sense go?  Why have people either abandoned God or pick and choose parts of the Bible they wish to use?

   There are many ways to do many things, HOWEVER, there is only 1, yes ONE WAY to live eternally in heaven with our LORD and Saviour.  That is through the blood and sacrifice of JESUS CHRIST!!

  We may wonder where is God?  HE is still there, on the throne and HE is in control.  If you read the Old Testament, the chosen people, the Israelites, would stray and worship baal, then God would intervene when HE had enough of their idol worship.  WELLLLLLLL, get ready as the world pluments out of control with all the idol worship, the evil, and the attempted crushing of Christians.  When God has enough, HE WILL INTERVENE!

  God does not do evil, and when HE is tired of it, all I can say is: 

                                 BRACE YOURSELF!!

Job 34: ¹⁰ “So listen to me, you men of understanding.
    Far be it from God to do evil,
    from the Almighty to do wrong.
¹¹ He repays everyone for what they have done;
    he brings on them what their conduct deserves.
¹² It is unthinkable that God would do wrong,
    that the Almighty would pervert justice.

The time is coming and as Christians we need to be prepared and ready.  I am not saying Doomsday Preppers, but just be prepared. Read your Bible daily, pray, and stay in tune with the LIVING GOD!  Thanks for reading. Love y'all.

In Christ's Love and Grace

Johnny

Job 10-20 Are you, as a friend, encouraging or discouraging?

 

Good morning all.  God is good all the time, all the time God is good.  YOU ARE BLESSED----YOU ARE A CHILD OF THE LIVING GOD!!!!!

   Prayers please, for friends, family, nation and world as we travel through this fear of COVID and time where everything is free by our politicians.  Thank you.

  Okay, since I have started reading the Bible, chronologically, and am in Job; which started me thinking.  A question for me and for you: Are you encouraging or discouraging?  When you say something to someone do you stop and think about the "after effects" of what you are about to say?

   Job, a man struck with disaster, has 3 friends come to "encourage" him; a wife to "encourage" him, yet none of that happens.

   His wife says curse God and die.  His friends say you did sinful things, we know, just look at you and what has happened.

   How often we are judgmental toward others; whether it be jokingly or sincerely and what or how may it damage the other person.  Do we stop and think.  Little words can cause damamge, like: stupid, dummy, idiot, fatty, or possibly phrases such as: are you going to wear that?  have you look in the mirror?  what were you thinking?

  My prayer for me is to be the kind of husband, father, and friend that is encouraging and understanding.  Often our best help is to be silent and just sit or cry with someone -- no words -- just action.

  So that is my thoughts for today.  Pray for me as I for you.  Love you all.

In Christ's Love and Grace

Johnny