Christ, My Strength...

I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.--Philippians 4:13

Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in Me.
“I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing. If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, you will ask what you desire, and it shall be done for you.--John 15:4-5,7

4 And we have such trust through Christ toward God. 5 Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think of anything as being from ourselves, but our sufficiency is from God,--2 Corinthians 3:4-5

And He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. 10 Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in needs, in persecutions, in distresses, for Christ’s sake. For when I am weak, then I am strong.--2 Corinthians 12:9-10

that He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with might through His Spirit in the inner man,--Ephesians 3:16

Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might.--Ephesians 6:10

strengthened with all might, according to His glorious power, for all patience and longsuffering with joy;--Colossians 1:11

Have you not known?
Have you not heard?
The everlasting God, the Lord,
The Creator of the ends of the earth,
Neither faints nor is weary.
His understanding is unsearchable.
He gives power to the weak,
And to those who have no might He increases strength.
Even the youths shall faint and be weary,
And the young men shall utterly fall,
But those who wait on the Lord
Shall renew their strength;
They shall mount up with wings like eagles,
They shall run and not be weary,
They shall walk and not faint.--Isaiah 40:28-31

Fear not, for I am with you;
Be not dismayed, for I am your God.
I will strengthen you,
Yes, I will help you,
I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.’--Isaiah 41:10

He shall say,
‘Surely in the Lord I have righteousness and strength.
To Him men shall come,
And all shall be ashamed
Who are incensed against Him.--Isaiah 45:24

Crushing the Critics by Doing Good...

For this is the will of God, that by doing good you may put to silence the ignorance of foolish men—--1 Peter 2:15

To My Beloved Daughters in Him:

THIS. IS. A VERY INSTRUCTIVE VERSE.  This one has kept me from sin and wrong speaking more times than I can count.  Girls, our single greatest evangelistic tool is how we live our lives.  So often people will speak ignorantly and foolishly...they will judge wrongly.  A foolish man in the bible is one who is disobedient to the word of God...He is a non believer. He is willfully ignorant of God's truth, but attacks it anyway.  We are to silence them not by what we say  but by doing what is good and what is right.  We are to do as it says in verse 12 of this same chapter...We are to have our conduct honorable among the Gentiles so that when they speak against us as evil doers, they may, by our good works which they observe, glorify God in the day of visitation.

Wow...crush the critics not by words but by doing right. Give your enemies no foothold...walk blamelessly before your God in uprightness of heart. It secures you in His will and stops the mouths of the lying and the foolish.  Don't fret..it only gives them power and causes you harm.  Keep your upright course.  Let your light so shine before men that they will see your good works and glorify for your Father in Heaven.  

Here is something you probably already know...this is not easy.  It is not easy to have your good called evil...to have your words twisted and your deeds maligned.  No one likes to be hated without a cause but therein is the encouragement.  Our Jesus was despised and rejected...His words were twisted and His deeds maligned.  Look to Jesus then for your example.  See how he reacted...

For this is commendable, if because of conscience toward God one endures grief, suffering wrongfully. For what credit is it if, when you are beaten for your faults, you take it patiently? But when you do good and suffer, if you take it patiently, this is commendable before God. For to this you were called, because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that you should follow His steps:

“Who committed no sin,
Nor was deceit found in His mouth”;

who, when He was reviled, did not revile in return; when He suffered, He did not threaten, but committed Himself to Him who judges righteously; who Himself bore our sins in His own body on the tree, that we, having died to sins, might live for righteousness—by whose stripes you were healed. For you were like sheep going astray, but have now returned to the Shepherd and Overseer of your souls.

Christ suffered that we might live.  Shine your light so others might live.  There are no true offenses against you...they are against God.  Your life is not about you..it is about glorifying Him in and through it all so that you can lead others to Christ.  The key verse for me from this section of 1 Peter 2 especially when going through this kind of trial is this one:

 "but committed Himself to Him who judges righteously" 

I am never to look to and desire the praises of men...I am to desire the praises of my God.  I am not to get entangled in foolish disputes in an attempt to clear my name. They take the focus off of God and place it on me...so instead of seeing Christ in me others just see me.  They keep the focus on earthly things rather than heavenly things and distract from the task at hand.  I am to commit myself then...all of me...to Him.  I am to surrender to what He has for me.  It is not my job to worry about my critics. It is His.  My job is to do good and keep my conduct honorable.  

These verses above from 1 Peter 2 and the ones below from Psalm 37 are gold to be treasured and obeyed.  As you follow your Lord's example, He will bring forth your righteousness as the light and your justice as the noon day and you will delight yourself in an abundance of peace.  

Trust in the Lord, and do good;
Dwell in the land, and feed on His faithfulness.
Delight yourself also in the Lord,
And He shall give you the desires of your heart.

Commit your way to the Lord,
Trust also in Him,
And He shall bring it to pass.
He shall bring forth your righteousness as the light,
And your justice as the noonday.

Rest in the Lord, and wait patiently for Him;
Do not fret because of him who prospers in his way,
Because of the man who brings wicked schemes to pass.
Cease from anger, and forsake wrath;
Do not fret—it only causes harm.

For evildoers shall be cut off;
But those who wait on the Lord,
They shall inherit the earth.
For yet a little while and the wicked shall be no more;
Indeed, you will look carefully for his place,
But it shall be no more.
But the meek shall inherit the earth,

And shall delight themselves in abundance of peace                                         

One Thing is Needful...

Now it came to pass, as they went, that he entered into a certain village: and a certain woman named Martha received him into her house. And she had a sister called Mary, which also sat at Jesus' feet, and heard his word. But Martha was cumbered about much serving, and came to him, and said, Lord, dost thou not care that my sister hath left me to serve alone? bid her therefore that she help me. And Jesus answered and said unto her, Martha, Martha, thou art careful and troubled about many things: But one thing is needful: and Mary hath chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her.--Luke 10:38-42

Question:  What does Jesus say is the one thing that is needed?  What does Jesus describe as the good part?  The part which shall not be taken away?

Answer:  Sitting at His feet (abiding) and hearing His word with a heart that desires Him above all because He is what is needed.

The one thing that is needed brings salvation:

Wherefore lay apart all filthiness and superfluity of naughtiness, and receive with meekness the engrafted word, which is able to save your souls.--James 1:21

So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.--Romans 10:17

Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ:--Romans 5:1

The one thing that is needed brings peace:

Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee.--Isaiah 26:3

For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace.--Romans 8:6

Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ:--Romans 5:1


The one thing that is needed brings a desire for the things above and an indifference to the things of the world:

If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth. For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God.--Colossians 3:1-3

Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled.--Matthew 5:6

 Labour not for the meat which perisheth, but for that meat which endureth unto everlasting life, which the Son of man shall give unto you: for him hath God the Father sealed.--John 6:27

Whom have I in heaven but thee? and there is none upon earth that I desire beside thee. My flesh and my heart faileth: but God is the strength of my heart, and my portion for ever.--Psalm 73:25-26

The one thing that is needed bears fruit unto our God:

Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me. I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.--John 15:4-5


But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.--Galatians 5:22-23

The one thing that is needed is made manifest in our devotion and obedience to God:

And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might.--Deuteronomy 6:5

But take diligent heed to do the commandment and the law, which Moses the servant of the Lord charged you, to love the Lord your God, and to walk in all his ways, and to keep his commandments, and to cleave unto him, and to serve him with all your heart and with all your soul.--Joshua 22:5

And he said, Lord God of Israel, there is no God like thee, in heaven above, or on earth beneath, who keepest covenant and mercy with thy servants that walk before thee with all their heart:--1 Kings 8:23

But his delight is in the law of the Lord; and in his law doth he meditate day and night.--Psalm 1:2

 Behold, thou desirest truth in the inward parts: and in the hidden part thou shalt make me to know wisdom.--Psalm 51:6

The one thing that is needed brings us into His Presence and to fulness of joy...it gives us Jesus Himself. 

Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in thy presence is fulness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore.--Psalm 16:11

And to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God.--Ephesians 3:19

For in him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily.
And ye are complete in him, --Colossians 2:9-10


Nevertheless I am continually with thee: thou hast holden me by my right hand.
Thou shalt guide me with thy counsel, and afterward receive me to glory.--Psalm 73:23-24

The desire for the one thing that is needed is produced by the indwelling Holy Spirit in a believers' heart.

And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever; Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you.--John 14:16-17

That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.--Romans 8:4

The Bible: How to Live in Harmony with Others.

The last verses are from Isaiah 50:4-11:  the Messiah's soliloquy about being perfected through obedience and sufferings...They speak as no other verses can, save Isaiah 53, to the example we are to follow...

Therefore if there is any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any affection and mercy, fulfill my joy by being like-minded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind.  Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself. Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others.--Philippians 2:1-4

Be of the same mind toward one another. Do not set your mind on high things, but associate with the humble. Do not be wise in your own opinion. Repay no one evil for evil. Have regard for good things in the sight of all men.  If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men.  Beloved, do not avenge yourselves, but rather give place to wrath; for it is written, “Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,” says the Lord.  Therefore

“If your enemy is hungry, feed him;
If he is thirsty, give him a drink;
For in so doing you will heap coals of fire on his head.”
Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.--Romans 12:16-18

Finally, all of you be of one mind, having compassion for one another; love as brothers, be tenderhearted, be courteous;  not returning evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary blessing, knowing that you were called to this, that you may inherit a blessing.  For

“He who would love life
And see good days,
Let him refrain his tongue from evil,
And his lips from speaking deceit.
Let him turn away from evil and do good;
Let him seek peace and pursue it.
For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous,
And His ears are open to their prayers;
But the face of the Lord is against those who do evil.”
And who is he who will harm you if you become followers of what is good?  But even if you should suffer for righteousness’ sake, you are blessed. “And do not be afraid of their threats, nor be troubled.” But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts, and always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear;  having a good conscience, that when they defame you as evildoers, those who revile your good conduct in Christ may be ashamed.  For it is better, if it is the will of God, to suffer for doing good than for doing evil.--1 Peter 3:8-17

“The Lord God has given Me
The tongue of the learned,
That I should know how to speak
A word in season to him who is weary.
He awakens Me morning by morning,
He awakens My ear
To hear as the learned.
The Lord God has opened My ear;
And I was not rebellious,
Nor did I turn away.
I gave My back to those who struck Me,
And My cheeks to those who plucked out the beard;
I did not hide My face from shame and spitting.
“For the Lord God will help Me;
Therefore I will not be disgraced;
Therefore I have set My face like a flint,
And I know that I will not be ashamed.
He is near who justifies Me;
Who will contend with Me?
Let us stand together.
Who is My adversary?
Let him come near Me.
Surely the Lord God will help Me;
Who is he who will condemn Me?
Indeed they will all grow old like a garment;
The moth will eat them up.
“Who among you fears the Lord?
Who obeys the voice of His Servant?
Who walks in darkness
And has no light?
Let him trust in the name of the Lord
And rely upon his God.
Look, all you who kindle a fire,
Who encircle yourselves with sparks:
Walk in the light of your fire and in the sparks you have kindled—
This you shall have from My hand:
You shall lie down in torment.--Isaiah 50:4-11

Broken Cisterns...

Often, I go through my day looking and hoping in wrong things.  My heart looks for fulfillment and joy where it will never be found.  As it says in Jeremiah, I hewn for myself cisterns...broken cisterns that can hold no water and I forget the fountain of living waters!   I wonder as David did in Psalm 42:

Why are you cast down, O my soul?
And why are you disquieted within me?

In my self-sufficiency, Father,  I am in distress...every hand of misery comes against me.  But, You, my God, because I am Your beloved...You bow down toward me and speak to my heart  You draw me to Yourself with gentle cords of love. You remind me to come...to cast all my care upon You because it is only in You that my soul finds its rest. 

So I bring you my heart and lay it bare before you.   Ahhh...then I remember where my help, my hope and my expectation are found....they are found only in You.  As I seek you, my heart is filled with what it has searched and longed for in the wrong places.  My soul is filled with your lovingkindness and your songs of deliverance surround me.  You, Father, care for my heart...You want my heart...You want all of me and desire only my good both temporally and eternally.  You, are my Savior, my Lord and my God...You are my all in all.  My eyes lift to You in earnest expectation.  In You, O God,  I will not be ashamed...Be magnified in my life.    

My expectation is from Him...

My soul waits silently for God alone, for my expectation is from Him.--Psalm 62:5

You are my hiding place and my shield;
I hope in Your word.--Psalm 119:114

My God will withhold from me no good thing...

The young lions lack and suffer hunger;
But those who seek the Lord shall not lack any good thing.--Psalm 34:10

For the Lord God is a sun and shield;
The Lord will give grace and glory;
No good thing will He withhold
From those who walk uprightly.--Psalm 84:11

My God is sufficient...

Because the foolishness of God is wiser than men, and the weakness of God is stronger than men.--1 Corinthians 1:25

Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think of anything as being from ourselves, but our sufficiency is from God,--2nd Corinthians 3:5

And God is able to make all grace abound toward you, that you, always having all sufficiency in all things, may have an abundance for every good work.--2 Corinthians 9:8

And He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.--2 Corinthians 12:9

Everything We Need...

But what things were gain to me, these I have counted loss for Christ.  Yet indeed I also count all things loss for the excellence of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and count them as rubbish, that I may gain Christ--Philippians 3:7-8

Paul came to Christ and whatever things might have been gain to him prior to his conversion: (see Philippians 3:4-6) he counted as loss, rubbish or dung in gaining Christ.  Paul surrendered his confidence in his flesh...did a complete 180 in his viewpoint so to speak...and put His faith and hope completely in Christ.  Paul understood that it was only in Christ, the Great I Am, the Becoming One... the One who becomes for us whatever our need might be, he had everything he needed.

For we are the circumcision, who worship God in the Spirit, rejoice in Christ Jesus, and have no confidence in the flesh,--Philippians 3:3

Psalm 25, a Psalm penned by David, speaks to this point well.  In it we see David's heart...the heart of a man after God's own heart who knew that whatever he needed would come from His God and it was to His God that David entrusted His very soul.  

Verses 1-7:  The help we need comes from Him:

To You, O Lord, I lift up my soul.
O my God, I trust in You;
Let me not be ashamed;
Let not my enemies triumph over me.
Indeed, let no one who waits on You be ashamed;
Let those be ashamed who deal treacherously without cause.

Show me Your ways, O Lord;
Teach me Your paths.
Lead me in Your truth and teach me,
For You are the God of my salvation;
On You I wait all the day.

Remember, O Lord, Your tender mercies and Your lovingkindnesses,
For they are from of old.
Do not remember the sins of my youth, nor my transgressions;
According to Your mercy remember me,
For Your goodness’ sake, O Lord.

Verses 8-14:   God can be trusted... 

Good and upright is the Lord; 

Therefore He teaches sinners in the way.

The humble He guides in justice, 

And the humble He teaches His way.

All the paths of the Lord are mercy and truth, 

To such as keep His covenant and His testimonies. 

For Your name’s sake, O Lord, 

Pardon my iniquity, for it is great. 

Who is the man that fears the Lord? 

Him shall He teach in the way He chooses. 

He himself shall dwell in prosperity, 

And his descendants shall inherit the earth. 

The secret of the Lord is with those who fear Him, 

And He will show them His covenant.

Verses 15-22 Trusting God brings victory...

In Danger:  My eyes are ever toward the Lord, For He shall pluck my feet out of the net. 

In Loneliness: Turn Yourself to me, and have mercy on me, 

In Sorrow, trouble, Brokenness, Loss and Regrets: For I am desolate and afflicted. The troubles of my heart have enlarged; Bring me out of my distresses! Look on my affliction and my pain, And forgive all my sins. 

In Fear: Consider my enemies, for they are many; And they hate me with cruel hatred. Keep my soul, and deliver me;

In Despair: Let me not be ashamed, for I put my trust in You. Let integrity and uprightness preserve me, For I wait for You. Redeem Israel, O God, Out of all their troubles!

Father,

May I seek you today with my whole heart knowing that it is only in You that I have everything I need. 

The Lord is my shepherd;
I shall not want--Psalm 23:1 NKJV

The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing.--Psalm 23:1 NIV

Crucified With Christ

I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.--Galatians 2:20 KJV

Below are the cross-references for this verse from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge. It is one of the best ways to study the Bible. Allowing Scripture to interpret Scripture.  Be blessed!

crucified -

[Gal 5:24 KJV] 24 And they that are Christ's have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts.

[Gal 6:14 KJV] 14 But God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world is crucified unto me, and I unto the world.

[Rom 6:4-6 KJV] 4 Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. 5 For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also [in the likeness] of [his] resurrection: 6 Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with [him], that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin.

[Rom 8:3-4 KJV] 3 For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh: 4 That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.

[Col 2:11-14 KJV] 11 In whom also ye are circumcised with the circumcision made without hands, in putting off the body of the sins of the flesh by the circumcision of Christ: 12 Buried with him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with [him] through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised him from the dead. 13 And you, being dead in your sins and the uncircumcision of your flesh, hath he quickened together with him, having forgiven you all trespasses; 14 Blotting out the handwriting of ordinances that was against us, which was contrary to us, and took it out of the way, nailing it to his cross;

nevertheless -

[Rom 6:8, 13 KJV] 8 Now if we be dead with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with him: ... 13 Neither yield ye your members [as] instruments of unrighteousness unto sin: but yield yourselves unto God, as those that are alive from the dead, and your members [as] instruments of righteousness unto God.

[Rom 8:2 KJV] 2 For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death.

[Eph 2:4-5 KJV] 4 But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, 5 Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;)

[Col 2:13 KJV] 13 And you, being dead in your sins and the uncircumcision of your flesh, hath he quickened together with him, having forgiven you all trespasses;

[Col 3:3-4 KJV] 3 For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God. 4 When Christ, [who is] our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with him in glory.

but -

[Jhn 14:19-20 KJV] 19 Yet a little while, and the world seeth me no more; but ye see me: because I live, ye shall live also. 20 At that day ye shall know that I [am] in my Father, and ye in me, and I in you.

[Jhn 17:21 KJV] 21 That they all may be one; as thou, Father, [art] in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me.

[2Cr 4:10-11 KJV] 10 Always bearing about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our body. 11 For we which live are alway delivered unto death for Jesus' sake, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our mortal flesh.

[2Cr 13:3, 5 KJV] 3 Since ye seek a proof of Christ speaking in me, which to you-ward is not weak, but is mighty in you. ... 5 Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves. Know ye not your own selves, how that Jesus Christ is in you, except ye be reprobates?

[Eph 3:17 KJV] 17 That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love,

[Col 1:27 KJV] 27 To whom God would make known what [is] the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory:

[1Th 5:10 KJV] 10 Who died for us, that, whether we wake or sleep, we should live together with him.
[1Pe 4:2 KJV] 2 That he no longer should live the rest of [his] time in the flesh to the lusts of men, but to the will of God.

[Rev 3:20 KJV] 20 Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me.

the life -

[2Cr 4:11 KJV] 11 For we which live are alway delivered unto death for Jesus' sake, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our mortal flesh.

[2Cr 10:3 KJV] 3 For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh:

[1Pe 4:1-2 KJV] 1 Forasmuch then as Christ hath suffered for us in the flesh, arm yourselves likewise with the same mind: for he that hath suffered in the flesh hath ceased from sin; 2 That he no longer should live the rest of [his] time in the flesh to the lusts of men, but to the will of God.

I now -

[Gal 2:16 KJV] 16 Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Jesus Christ, that we might be justified by the faith of Christ, and not by the works of the law: for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified.

[Gal 3:11 KJV] 11 But that no man is justified by the law in the sight of God, [it is] evident: for, The just shall live by faith.

[Jhn 6:57 KJV] 57 As the living Father hath sent me, and I live by the Father: so he that eateth me, even he shall live by me.

[Rom 1:17 KJV] 17 For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith.

[Rom 5:2 KJV] 2 By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God.

[2Cr 1:24 KJV] 24 Not for that we have dominion over your faith, but are helpers of your joy: for by faith ye stand.

[2Cr 5:7, 15 KJV] 7 (For we walk by faith, not by sight:) ... 15 And [that] he died for all, that they which live should not henceforth live unto themselves, but unto him which died for them, and rose again.

[Phl 4:13 KJV] 13 I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.

[1Th 5:10 KJV] 10 Who died for us, that, whether we wake or sleep, we should live together with him.

[1Pe 1:8 KJV] 8 Whom having not seen, ye love; in whom, though now ye see [him] not, yet believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory:

[1Pe 4:2 KJV] 2 That he no longer should live the rest of [his] time in the flesh to the lusts of men, but to the will of God.

the Son -

[Jhn 1:49 KJV] 49 Nathanael answered and saith unto him, Rabbi, thou art the Son of God; thou art the King of Israel.

[Jhn 3:16, 35 KJV] 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. ... 35 The Father loveth the Son, and hath given all things into his hand.

[Jhn 6:69 KJV] 69 And we believe and are sure that thou art that Christ, the Son of the living God.

[Jhn 9:35-38 KJV] 35 Jesus heard that they had cast him out; and when he had found him, he said unto him, Dost thou believe on the Son of God? 36 He answered and said, Who is he, Lord, that I might believe on him? 37 And Jesus said unto him, Thou hast both seen him, and it is he that talketh with thee. 38 And he said, Lord, I believe. And he worshipped him.

[Act 8:37 KJV] 37 And Philip said, If thou believest with all thine heart, thou mayest. And he answered and said, I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God.

[Act 9:20 KJV] 20 And straightway he preached Christ in the synagogues, that he is the Son of God.

[1Th 1:10 KJV] 10 And to wait for his Son from heaven, whom he raised from the dead, [even] Jesus, which delivered us from the wrath to come.

[1Jo 1:7 KJV] 7 But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin.

[1Jo 4:9-10, 14 KJV] 9 In this was manifested the love of God toward us, because that God sent his only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through him. 10 Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son [to be] the propitiation for our sins. ... 14 And we have seen and do testify that the Father sent the Son [to be] the Saviour of the world.

[1Jo 5:10-13, 20 KJV] 10 He that believeth on the Son of God hath the witness in himself: he that believeth not God hath made him a liar; because he believeth not the record that God gave of his Son.
11 And this is the record, that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. 12 He that hath the Son hath life; [and] he that hath not the Son of God hath not life. 13 These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God. ... 20 And we know that the Son of God is come, and hath given us an understanding, that we may know him that is true, and we are in him that is true, [even] in his Son Jesus Christ. This is the true God, and eternal life.

who -

[Gal 1:4 KJV] 4 Who gave himself for our sins, that he might deliver us from this present evil world, according to the will of God and our Father:

[Mat 20:28 KJV] 28 Even as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many.

[Jhn 10:11 KJV] 11 I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep.

[Jhn 15:13 KJV] 13 Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.

[Rom 8:37 KJV] 37 Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us.

[Eph 5:2, 25 KJV] 2 And walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweetsmelling savour. ... 25 Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it;

[Tts 2:14 KJV] 14 Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works.

[Rev 1:5 KJV] 5 And from Jesus Christ, [who is] the faithful witness, [and] the first begotten of the dead, and the prince of the kings of the earth. Unto him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in his own blood,

Apprehended of Christ Jesus....

Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect: but I follow after, if that I may apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus.--Philippians 3:12 KJV

As a believer I have been apprehended by Christ. I am His possession...He has laid hold of me to bring me to heaven. My safety...my salvation...is not that I lay hold of Him but that He lays hold of me. 

Who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.-1 Peter 1:5

We love him, because he first loved us.--1 John 4:19

I have been chosen for the very purpose of being perfected...conformed to His image. That is the very goal I will press on towards [follow after, earnestly endeavor to acquire, pursue, seek eagerly after] I want what He wanted for me when he took hold of me. I want what He desires for me. Father may Your desires be my desires.. I want everything you have for me.

Delight thyself also in the LORD; and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart.--Psalm 37:4

Be Merciful Unto Me....

Be merciful unto me, O God, be merciful unto me: for my soul trusteth in thee: yea, in the shadow of thy wings, will I make my refuge, until [these] calamities be overpast--Psalm 57:1

Be merciful unto me (ME!)- The picture this paints is of God the Father stooping and bending down to be gracious to me!! His daughter!!! Be gracious to me, Father,  show me your favor, your pity.  Incline your ear...encamp all about me.

for my soul - the center of all that I am; my heart

trusteth in thee - seeks refuge in You,  flees to You for protection

yea, in the shadow of thy wings will I make my refuge- Your shade is my protection and defense.

until these calamities - engulfing ruins, destruction

be overpast - overtake and pass me.

Be my strong habitation where unto I may continually resort, thou hast given commandment to save me, for thou art my rock and fortress.--Psalm 71:3

Because he hath set his love upon Me, therefore will I deliver him; I will set him on high, because he hath known My name.--Psalm 91:9

Though he fall he shall not be utterly cast down for the Lord upholdeth him with His hand.--Psalm 37:24

Seek Their Own....

For all seek their own, not the things which are Jesus Christ's.--Philippians 2:21 KJV

Some pretty convicting cross-references from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge on the BLB are below. My favorite is 1 Corinthians 13:5 - (Love) "Doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil;"

all -

[Phl 2:4 KJV] 4 Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others.
[Isa 56:11 KJV] 11 Yea, [they are] greedy dogs [which] can never have enough, and they [are] shepherds [that] cannot understand: they all look to their own way, every one for his gain, from his quarter.

[Mal 1:10 KJV] 10 Who [is there] even among you that would shut the doors [for nought]? neither do ye kindle [fire] on mine altar for nought. I have no pleasure in you, saith the LORD of hosts, neither will I accept an offering at your hand.

[Mat 16:24 KJV] 24 Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any [man] will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.

[Luk 9:57-62 KJV] 57 And it came to pass, that, as they went in the way, a certain [man] said unto him, Lord, I will follow thee whithersoever thou goest. 58 And Jesus said unto him, Foxes have holes, and birds of the air [have] nests; but the Son of man hath not where to lay [his] head. 59 And he said unto another, Follow me. But he said, Lord, suffer me first to go and bury my father. 60 Jesus said unto him, Let the dead bury their dead: but go thou and preach the kingdom of God. 61 And another also said, Lord, I will follow thee; but let me first go bid them farewell, which are at home at my house. 62 And Jesus said unto him, No man, having put his hand to the plough, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God.

[Luk 14:26 KJV] 26 If any [man] come to me, and hate not his father, and mother, and wife, and children, and brethren, and sisters, yea, and his own life also, he cannot be my disciple.

[1Cr 10:24, 33 KJV] 24 Let no man seek his own, but every man another's [wealth]. ... 33 Even as I please all [men] in all [things], not seeking mine own profit, but the [profit] of many, that they may be saved.

[1Cr 13:5 KJV] 5 Doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil;

[2Ti 3:2 KJV] 2 For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy,

the -

[Phl 1:20-21 KJV] 20 According to my earnest expectation and [my] hope, that in nothing I shall be ashamed, but [that] with all boldness, as always, [so] now also Christ shall be magnified in my body, whether [it be] by life, or by death. 21 For to me to live [is] Christ, and to die [is] gain.

[2Cr 1:5 KJV] 5 For as the sufferings of Christ abound in us, so our consolation also aboundeth by Christ.

[2Cr 5:14-15 KJV] 14 For the love of Christ constraineth us; because we thus judge, that if one died for all, then were all dead: 15 And [that] he died for all, that they which live should not henceforth live unto themselves, but unto him which died for them, and rose again.

Final Word from James 3 on self seeking:  For where envy and self-seeking exist, confusion and every evil thing are there. 

Holding Forth the Word of Life....

Holding forth the word of life; that I may rejoice in the day of Christ, that I have not run in vain, neither laboured in vain  Yea, and if I be offered upon the sacrifice and service of your faith, I joy, and rejoice with you all.--Philippians 2:16-17

Thinking of the song here by Sidewalk Prophets, I want to "Live Like That." (lyrics after the verses)

Encouragement from the Word for those that hold forth the word of life - "Hold forth" means to hold upon, attend to and apply the word of God...or hold it in the sense of wearing it and allowing it to possess one's mind and heart.   These verses speak to all believers, but are especially precious to those who make a practice of pointing to Him in their lives, both in word and in deed, even and often to their own hurt.  Rejoice!! You are in good company biblically. My favorite is 2 Corinthians 12:15...there is much hurt and grief in that verse but it truly describes our Lord's demeanor as He faced the cross.

For what is our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing? Are not even ye in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at his coming?--1 Thessalonians 2:19

I therefore so run, not as uncertainly; so fight I, not as one that beateth the air:--1 Corinthians 9:26

Then I said, I have laboured in vain, I have spent my strength for nought, and in vain: yet surely my judgment is with the LORD, and my work with my God.--Isaiah 49:4

According to my earnest expectation and my hope, that in nothing I shall be ashamed, but that with all boldness, as always, so now also Christ shall be magnified in my body, whether it be by life, or by death.--Philippians 1:20

But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God.--Acts 20:24

And I will very gladly spend and be spent for you; though the more abundantly I love you, the less I be loved.--2 Corinthians 12:15

So being affectionately desirous of you, we were willing to have imparted unto you, not the gospel of God only, but also our own souls, because ye were dear unto us.--1 Thessalonians 2:8

For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand.--2 Timothy 4:6

Hereby perceive we the love of God, because he laid down his life for us: and we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren.--1 John 3:16

I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.--Romans 12:1


Therefore, brethren, we were comforted over you in all our affliction and distress by your faith: For now we live, if ye stand fast in the Lord. For what thanks can we render to God again for you, for all the joy wherewith we joy for your sakes before our God;--1 Thessalonians 3:7-9

Live Like That

Sometimes I think
What will people say of me
When I'm only just a memory
When I'm home where my soul belongs

Was I love
When no one else would show up
Was I Jesus to the least of us
Was my worship more than just a song

I want to live like that
And give it all I have
So that everything I say and do
Points to You

Wise Unto That Which is Good...

For your obedience is come abroad unto all men. I am glad therefore on your behalf: but yet I would have you wise unto that which is good, and simple concerning evil.--Romans 16:19

Obey God...meditate and focus on that which is good...Let the truth of God...the Word of Christ dwell in you richly!  KNOW THE GENUINE SO THAT YOU RECOGNIZE THE COUNTERFEIT! 

Meditate on and obey that which is good that ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world. 

Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom, teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.--Colossians 3:16

"Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things. The things which you learned and received and heard and saw in me, these do, and the God of peace will be with you.--Philippians 4:8-9


Brethren, do not be children in understanding; however, in malice be babes, but in understanding be mature.--1 Corinthians 14:20

“Behold, I send you out as sheep in the midst of wolves. Therefore be wise as serpents and harmless as doves.--Matthew 10:16

And that from childhood you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.--2 Timothy 3:15-17

Who is wise and understanding among you? Let him show by good conduct that his works are done in the meekness of wisdom. But if you have bitter envy and self-seeking in your hearts, do not boast and lie against the truth.  This wisdom does not descend from above, but is earthly, sensual, demonic. For where envy and self-seeking exist, confusion and every evil thing are there.  But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy.  Now the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace.--James 3:13-18

The definition of GENUINE love is below: 

Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up;  does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil;  does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth;  bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never fails.--1 Corinthians 13:4-8

BE YE KIND...

And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you.--Ephesians 4:32

Some of my favorite words in the NT:  AND BE YE KIND ONE TO ANOTHER...

There is so much personal grief, sadness and heartache in the lives of the people that we meet and interact with each and every day...most of which we will never know this side of eternity.  All the more BE YE KIND...merciful, mild, gentle, compassionate, pleasant, good, benevolent.  Be imitators of God as dear children for His compassion fails not and extends to ALL:

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.--John 3:16

AND it is the goodness of our God that leads us to repentance.

Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good.--Romans 12:21

Words of Comfort and Encouragement from the Gospel of John...

Remembering again why I love the book of John so much. Listen to Jesus' heart as He speaks in these verses. It is important to note that these words are said right after the last supper...right before His crucifixion. He so clearly wants to keep trouble from invading the hearts of His disciples and wants them (us too) to rest easy knowing that their everlasting rest is with Him and that in the meanwhile, He will be sending them His Spirit to indwell them, lead them, and comfort them. So easy to hear in His words a Father's love and concern for his children when for most of us (okay all of us), our concern before being crucified would be for ourselves. We would be looking to others for comfort. Jesus, however, stays the course, remembers His purpose...puts us...the joy that was set before Him...first... and gives us these tremendous words of comfort and encouragement. The ones below are just a smattering of the comfort that can be found in the book of John. Jesus not only brings comfort and consolation...When we take HIm in to ourselves and partake of His Spirit, He becomes for us EVERYTHING we need.

And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever;

Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you.

I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you.

Yet a little while, and the world seeth me no more; but ye see me: because I live, ye shall live also.

At that day ye shall know that I am in my Father, and ye in me, and I in you.

He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him.----John 14:16-21

But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.

Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.

Ye have heard how I said unto you, I go away, and come again unto you. If ye loved me, ye would rejoice, because I said, I go unto the Father: for my Father is greater than I.

And now I have told you before it come to pass, that, when it is come to pass, ye might believe.

Hereafter I will not talk much with you: for the prince of this world cometh, and hath nothing in me.

But that the world may know that I love the Father; and as the Father gave me commandment, even so I do. Arise, let us go hence.--John 14:26-31

These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full.--John 15:11

And ye now therefore have sorrow: but I will see you again, and your heart shall rejoice, and your joy no man taketh from you.

And in that day ye shall ask me nothing. Verily, verily, I say unto you, Whatsoever ye shall ask the Father in my name, he will give it you.

Hitherto have ye asked nothing in my name: ask, and ye shall receive, that your joy may be full.--John 16:22-24

REJOICE ALWAYS, PRAY WITHOUT CEASING, IN EVERYTHING GIVE THANKS...

Woke up with the short succinct COMMANDS of 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 on my heart:

Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.--1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

And since it was morning I wondered why the Holy Spirit chose to place "Rejoice always" first....for me it is usually prayer as soon as my mind realizes I am awake...my favorite is,  "Lord, have mercy on me today for I am weak" and then I thank Him that I can start my day with my coffee and His word. (shallow...I know)  Once I have my coffee the rejoicing part comes easier.  BUT as I meditated this morning on these three short verses before getting out of bed. I realized that of course, rejoice always or rejoice evermore is first because my joy in Him is the background music of my life. Before I pray...in order to pray, I must "REMEMBER" my God.  For me to even go to prayer or thanksgiving when I awake, I must remember Him and rejoice because He is my hope and my source of joy as a believer...THIS world is not my home.  My God is the same yesterday, today and forever...He is ALWAYS with me and nothing can separate me from His love...so yeah...rejoice always....even at 6 am before coffee.

Emptied Himself...

Philippians 2:7 but made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant, and coming in the likeness of men.

But - nevertheless, notwithstanding

made himself- (kenoo) emptied himself.

of no reputation - (kenoo)  emptied himself

and took upon - laid hold of, to take upon one's self, to take in order to carry away.

the form - external appearance

of a servant - (doulos) a slave, bondman, in the Hebrew sense one who gives himself up to another's will.  Those whose service is used by Christ in extending and advancing his cause among men.

and was made - to become, to come into existence, begin to be

in the likeness - made after the likeness of something, image, resemblance...Christ became fully God and fully man. He took on all the essential attributes of humanity and could identify with human needs and weaknesses.  Whatever He did here...He did not do them in His deity but in His humanity totally dependent on the Spirit of God.

of men - a human being, whether male or female.

Christ "emptied" Himself of His own will and His own ambitions and voluntarily gave Himself up to His Father's will. He submitted Himself to the Spirit's direction.  Philippians 2:8 reads: And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death, even the death of the cross. As believers and bondservants of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ we are to empty ourselves of our own will and live unto God.

I want to live like that...emptying me of me and living for what matters.

For it is the God who commanded light to shine out of darkness, who has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.

But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellence of the power may be of God and not of us.  We are hard-pressed on every side, yet not crushed; we are perplexed, but not in despair;  persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed— always carrying about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life of Jesus also may be manifested in our body. For we who live are always delivered to death for Jesus’ sake, that the life of Jesus also may be manifested in our mortal flesh.  So then death is working in us, but life in you.--2nd Corinthians 4:6-12

Lowliness of Mind...

Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves--Philippians 2:3

Let nothing - No thing, nobody

be done - down from according to

strife - electioneering or intriguing for office; in the NT courting distinction - a desire to put one's self forward. A partisan and fractious spirit which does not disdain low arts. To stir up, excite, to provoke

or vainglory - groundless self-esteem, empty or vain pride; glorying without reason, conceited

but in lowliness of mind - having a humble opinion of one's self; a deep sense of one's moral littleness, modesty

let - (see esteem below) to go before another... to consider, deem, account, reckon another as superior in rank.

each - reciprocally, one to another, mutually,

esteem - (associated with let above) to go before another... to consider, deem, account, reckon another as superior in rank.

other - one another, reciprocal pronoun

better than - above, to excel, to be superior

themselves - himself, herself, itself, themselves

Aside on humility or lowliness of mind - "This word in pre-Christian writings tapeinos is, with few exceptions in Plato and Platonic writers, used in a bad or inferior sense as denoting something evil or unworthy. The prominence it gained in Christian thought indicates a new conception of man in relation to God, to himself and to his fellows, which is due to Christianity. It by no means implies slavishness or servility; nor is it inconsistent with a right estimate of oneself, one's gifts and calling of God, or with proper self-assertion when called for. But the habitual frame of mind of a child of God is that of one who feels not only that he owes all his natural gifts, etc., to God, but that he has been the object of undeserved redeeming love, and who regards himself as being not his own, but God's in Christ. He cannot exalt himself, for he knows that he has nothing of himself. The humble mind is thus at the root of all other graces and virtues. Self-exaltation spoils everything. There can be no real love without humility."--from International Standard Bible Encyclopaedia


Christ is our supreme example of humility.

1 Corinthians 13:4 says that "Love vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up."