Monday, March 26, 2007

The Wisdom Of Solomon

Proverbs 12:20-22(KJV): 20 Deceit is in the heart of them that imagine evil: but to the counsellors of peace is joy. 21 There shall no evil happen to the just: but the wicked shall be filled with mischief. 22 Lying lips are abomination to the LORD: but they that deal truly are his delight.


Thoughts for the Day These verses in the book of Proverbs clearly show us the pattern of deceit versus truth. Notice that the first half of verse 20 points out that in the heart of an evil man is deceit. Deceit is all too prevalent today in our society. Webster's Dictionary gives us the following definition of the word deceit: 1.The act of representing as true what is known to be false; a deceiving or lying 2. a dishonest action or trick; fraud or lie. People who use deceit have a wicked heart and evil imaginings. There are many fraudulent schemes today that are robbing people of their money. The Bible says, “You must not associate with anyone who calls himself a brother but is sexually immoral or greedy, an idolater or a slanderer, a drunkard or a swindler. With such a man do not even eat.” (1 Corinthians 5:11). Swindlers take advantage of other people's weaknesses to make money for themselves. Greedy people are motivated by a desire for personal gain at others' expense. Covetousness is a form of idolatry (Colossians 3:5). We should flee such unrighteousness. “Those who do not work should not eat.” (2 Thessalonians 3:10). The desire to make money without working for it is an unrighteous desire. People who use schemes to take advantage of others are using a form of deceit. God uses work to build and shape our character. He delights in providing for those who put His Kingdom and His Righteousness first. God's Kingdom is not promoted by unrighteousness. It is promoted through the loving sacrifice of those who are obedient to the Lord Jesus Christ. The last half of Proverbs 12:20 tells us that those who promote peace shall have joy. The Lord tells us in verse 9 of the "Beatitudes" listed in Matthew 5, " Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God." We are blessed when we pursue peace and counsel others to walk in peace. Verse 21 in Proverbs 12 tells us that ultimately no evil or misfortune or calamity shall come upon the righteous, while the wicked will be filled with evil, misfortune and calamity. Looking at this verse you might think it is not true, as perhaps, you or other Christians you know, have gone through some evil, misfortune or calamity in this world. In this world, we may suffer some of the things that people who do not know the Lord suffer; however, the difference is that we go through them, but we are not destroyed by them. Our eternal state in Christ causes us to overcome all evil that the devil may try to bring our way. We are more than conquerors through our Lord Jesus Christ. John 16:33: "These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world." Isaiah 54:17a: "No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper..." Romans 8:37-39: "Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us. 38 For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, 39 Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord." The fate of the wicked is different, as their own wicked deeds bring them down. They are ultimately destroyed in this life and face hell in the life to come. The wicked are filled with mischief and deceit. Verse 22 says that the lying lips of the wicked are extremely disgusting and hateful to the Lord, but those that deal truly are His delight. In fact, lying is in the list of the six things that God hates (Proverbs 6:17). Since God cannot lie and hates lying, we should guard against this sin too.


Prayer for the Day Dear Heavenly Father, Thank You for Your love and goodness to me. You have been very patient and merciful to me. Lord, I need that same love and mercy towards others. Father, I ask You to remove all deceit from my heart and cleanse me so that I might have a pure heart before You. Lord, deliver our nation of deceit and lying. Help us all to keep our word, when we give it to someone. Restore truth to our land. We desire truth to abide in our homes and our businesses. Lord, I also ask that You give me faith and an overcoming spirit so that I will not walk in fear. Help me to trust You, even when my circumstances cause me doubt at times. Deliver me from doubt and unbelief in every area of my life. I ask this in the name of Jesus. Amen.

Thank You for allow in this site,group sites, web sites and other prayer sites as well in holding one another up for prayer's being totally united in everyone around this world, it's about Jesus Christ first and prayers,intecessory prayer's and at other times about this vast world we live in today which this old world as we all know it is slowly departing to be reaching our home in glory.

Morning & Evening Devotionals

Morning Verse

"Jesus said unto them, If ye seek Me, let these go their way." John 18:8

Mark, my soul, the care which Jesus manifested even in His hour of trial, towards the sheep of His hand! The ruling passion is strong in death. He resigns Himself to the enemy, but He interposes a word of power to set His disciples free. As to Himself, like a sheep before her shearers He is dumb and opened not His mouth, but for His disciples' sake He speaks with Almighty energy. Herein is love, constant, self-forgetting, faithful love. But is there not far more here than is to be found upon the surface? Have we not the very soul and spirit of the atonement in these words? The Good Shepherd lays down His life for the sheep, and pleads that they must therefore go free. The Surety is bound, and justice demands that those for whom He stands a substitute should go their way. In the midst of Egypt's bondage, that voice rings as a word of power, "Let these go their way." Out of slavery of sin and Satan the redeemed must come. In every cell of the dungeons of Despair, the sound is echoed, "Let these go their way," and forth come Despondency and Much-afraid. Satan hears the well-known voice, and lifts his foot from the neck of the fallen; and Death hears it, and the grave opens her gates to let the dead arise. Their way is one of progress, holiness, triumph, glory, and none shall dare to stay them in it. No lion shall be on their way, neither shall any ravenous beast go up thereon. "The hind of the morning" has drawn the cruel hunters upon himself, and now the most timid roes and hinds of the field may graze at perfect peace among the lilies of his loves. The thunder-cloud has burst over the Cross of Calvary, and the pilgrims of Zion shall never be smitten by the bolts of vengeance. Come, my heart, rejoice in the immunity which thy Redeemer has secured thee, and bless His name all the day, and every day.

Evening Verse

"When He cometh in the glory of His Father with the holy angels." Mark 8:38

If we have been partakers with Jesus in His shame, we shall be sharers with Him in the lustre which shall surround Him when He appears again in glory. Art thou, beloved one, with Christ Jesus? Does a vital union knit thee to Him? Then thou art to-day with Him in His shame; thou hast taken up His cross, and gone with Him without the camp bearing His reproach; thou shalt doubtless be with Him when the cross is exchanged for the crown. But judge thyself this evening; for if thou art not with Him in the regeneration, neither shalt thou be with Him when He shall come in His glory. If thou start back from the black side of communion, thou shalt not understand its bright, its happy period, when the King shall come, and all His holy angels with Him. What! are angels with Him? And yet He took not up angels--He took up the seed of Abraham. Are the holy angels with Him? Come, my soul, if thou art indeed His own beloved, thou canst not be far from Him. If His friends and His neighbours are called together to see His glory, what thinkest thou if thou art married to Him? Shalt thou be distant? Though it be a day of judgment, yet thou canst not be far from that heart which, having admitted angels into intimacy, has admitted thee into union. Has He not said to thee, O my soul, "I will betroth thee unto Me in righteousness, and in judgment, and in lovingkindness"? Have not His own lips said it, "I am married unto thee, and My delight is in thee"? If the angels, who are but friends and neighbours, shall be with Him, it is abundantly certain that His own beloved Hephzibah, in whom is all His delight, shall be near to Him, and sit at His right hand. Here is a morning star of hope for thee, of such exceeding brilliance, that it may well light up the darkest and most desolate experience.
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_The Big Picture:____________________________________________

CHRIST TAKEN IN THE GARDEN. 18:1-12

Sin began in the garden of Eden, there the curse was pronounced, there the Redeemer was promised; and in a garden that promised Seed entered into conflict with the old serpent. Christ was buried also in a garden. Let us, when we walk in our gardens, take occasion from thence to mediate on Christ's sufferings in a garden. Our Lord Jesus, knowing all things that should come upon him, went forth and asked, Whom seek ye? When the people would have forced him to a crown, he withdrew, John 6:15, but when they came to force him to a cross, he offered himself; for he came into this world to suffer, and went to the other world to reign. He showed plainly what he could have done; when he struck them down he could have struck them dead, but he would not do so. It must have been the effect of Divine power, that the officers and soldiers let the disciples go away quietly, after the resistance which had been offered. Christ set us an example of meekness in sufferings, and a pattern of submission to God's will in every thing that concerns us. It is but a cup, a small matter. It is a cup that is given us; sufferings are gifts. It is given us by a Father, who has a father's authority, and does us no wrong; a father's affection, and means us no hurt. From the example of our Saviour we should learn how to receive our lighter afflictions, and to ask ourselves whether we ought to oppose our Father's will, or to distrust his love. We were bound with the cords of our iniquities, with the yoke of our transgressions. Christ, being made a sin-offering for us, to free us from those bonds, himself submitted to be bound for us. To his bonds we owe our liberty; thus the Son makes us free.

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CHRIST MUST BE FOLLOWED. 8:34-38

Frequent notice is taken of the great flocking there was to Christ for help in various cases. All are concerned to know this, if they expect him to heal their souls. They must not indulge the ease of the body. As the happiness of heaven with Christ, is enough to make up for the loss of life itself for him, so the gain of all the world in sin, will not make up for the ruin of the soul by sin. And there is a day coming, when the cause of Christ will appear as glorious, as some now think it mean and contemptible. May we think of that season, and view every earthly object as we shall do at that great day.

_________________________________ Prayer:Dear Pracious Heavenly Father; I thank You so much for the restful sleep that You have given unto us through the night and in keeping us firmly fit and kept us protected until we have woken up to rise up to meet with you this very day. Father You are worthy for our praises and honour that we could lavish upon you as we praise your Holy name of Jesus Christ that's upon our lips that within our soul. Oh, Precious divine Father, there is so much going on in this world that You already know about before we even mention it to you this bright beauitful day that You have given unto us in us resting in your assurance and comfort that gives us so much of that peace that's within us as we worship You as our most high God. For We as Your Inheritance have given up all of those things that has ment to be given up as we surrender it all unto You in our lifstyles, relationships,our possessions that are not important unto us as You are precious Lord, in being about your business in feeding the flock that is in this world at large today simply because your coming back for us one day soon.Father there are those we have prayed and fasted for in bringing them home unto You but they seems to turn deaf ears unto Your words of truths and do not want to comply unto You and yet a few do listen and seem to bring those changes in thier lives. That is with truths in our loved ones that we have ministered to as well. How it literally breaks our hearts so very much to see and witness this as well. WE DON'T want them to miss that glorious kingdom that is waiting for them to go to and live forever in it. How we've cried and have wept for them so much in our life. Our hearts have been broken down to the core by such a loss. That even goes for those whom we have called our friends that just have shoved you into the ground in those lives. You have shared with us in [Ps. 73;1-28], just what happens to us in those trying times in our lives but to keep putting our hope in you No matter what it looks like unto us. For our true blessings comes from our precious heavenly Father God in knowing that we know that our triumps comes of our faith as those whom think that they have it will befall by the wayside as well as problems that other's choose to live in this world. Our hope remains in You. The wicked propsers as our true treausre in our life is You Precious Lord and your always with us as you guide us in the sword of the spirit, as you have given us in that mighty power of the Holy Spirit as You uphold us as You revive us in the holy spirit as we face each day. Thank You Jesus for all that You do before us ad we lift your name on high. Youare worthy to be praises in all of the earth. Glory HALLELUJAH! Hallelujah! Hallelujah! Our Sovereign Lord! I love You so very much precious Jesus.Iam a blessed child of God. I fear the Lord and delight greatly in His commandments. My seed will be mighty in the earth and my generations will be blessed. Wealth and riches will be in my house and my righteousness will endure forever. Because I walk uprightly before the Lord, light will arise in the darkness. My confusion will be overcome and I will have guidance from the Holy Spirit. There is no problems which can come against me that I will not have wisdom and the leading of the Lord to overcome. I will also guide my personal, family and business affairs with discretion. I have wisdom beyond my natural ability. Because I am gracious, compassionate, righteous and give to others, favor follows after me. Everywhere I go, blessings find me. Surely I will not be moved forever. I cannot be shaken by circumstances or fear from the enemy, because I keep the Lord forever in my remembrance. I will not be afraid of evil tidings. My heart is fixed. I trust in the Lord. My heart is established, I will never be afraid. Satan desires to see me defeated. I desire to see him defeated and destroyed. His desire will not come to pass over me. My desire will come to pass over him. With God’s power, I will outlast Satan every time. I have dispersed and given to the poor. My acts of righteousness are eternal. My horn is lifted up in anticipation of a great outpouring of God’s blessing into my life. The wicked will see it and be grieved. Though they gnash their teeth at me, they will melt away and their desires shall perish. My desires will be granted by the Lord and my treasuries will be filled.

"Through the Blood of Jesus, I am redeemed out of the hand of the devil. Through the Blood of Jesus, all my sins are forgiven. The Blood of Jesus Christ, God’s Son, is cleansing me now from all my sin. Through the Blood of Jesus, I am justified, made righteous, just as if I’d never sinned. Through the Blood of Jesus, I am sanctified, made holy, set apart for my Master’s use. My body is a temple for the Holy Spirit, redeemed, cleansed, and sanctified, by the Blood of Jesus. I belong to the Lord Jesus Christ, God’s Son, spirit, soul, and body. His Blood protects me from all evil. Because of the Blood of Jesus, satan has no more power over me and no more place in me. I renounce you satan and your hosts completely and I declare you to be my enemies. I command you satan and your hosts to leave me now, according to the word of God. I place (by faith) the Blood of Jesus on my doorposts; I draw the Bloodline of Jesus around family, my friends, possessions, properties and myself. In Jesus name, amen"

__________________________________ catcmo2003 would like to Thank You for allow in this site,group sites, web sites and other prayer sites as well in holding one another up for prayer's being totally united in everyone around this world, it's about Jesus Christ first and prayers,intecessory prayer's and at other times about this vast world we live in today which this old world as we all know it is slowly departing to be reaching our home in glory.

Friday, March 23, 2007

Morning & Evening Devotionals

Morning Verse

"His sweat was as it were great drops of blood falling down to the ground." Luke 22:44

The mental pressure arising from our Lord's struggle with temptation, so forced his frame to an unnatural excitement, that his pores sent forth great drops of blood which fell down to the ground. This proves how tremendous must have been the weight of sin when it was able to crush the Saviour so that he distilled great drops of blood! This demonstrates the mighty power of his love. It is a very pretty observation of old Isaac Ambrose that the gum which exudes from the tree without cutting is always the best. This precious camphire-tree yielded most sweet spices when it was wounded under the knotty whips, and when it was pierced by the nails on the cross; but see, it giveth forth its best spice when there is no whip, no nail, no wound. This sets forth the voluntariness of Christ's sufferings, since without a lance the blood flowed freely. No need to put on the leech, or apply the knife; it flows spontaneously. No need for the rulers to cry, "Spring up, O well;" of itself it flows in crimson torrents. If men suffer great pain of mind apparently the blood rushes to the heart. The cheeks are pale; a fainting fit comes on; the blood has gone inward as if to nourish the inner man while passing through its trial. But see our Saviour in His agony; he is so utterly oblivious of self, that instead of his agony driving his blood to the heart to nourish himself, it drives it outward to bedew the earth. The agony of Christ, inasmuch as it pours him out upon the ground, pictures the fulness of the offering which he made for men.

Do we not perceive how intense must have been the wrestling through which he passed, and will we not hear its voice to us? "Ye have not yet resisted unto blood, striving against sin." Behold the great Apostle and High Priest of our profession, and sweat even to blood rather than yield to the great tempter of your souls.

Evening Verse

"I tell you that, if these should hold their peace, the stones would immediately cry out." Luke 19:40

But could the stones cry out? Assuredly they could if He who opens the mouth of the dumb should bid them lift up their voice. Certainly if they were to speak, they would have much to testify in praise of Him who created them by the word of His power; they could extol the wisdom and power of their Maker who called them into being. Shall not we speak well of Him who made us anew, and out of stones raised up children unto Abraham? The old rocks could tell of chaos and order, and the handiwork of God in successive stages of creation's drama; and cannot we talk of God's decrees, of God's great work in ancient times, in all that He did for His church in the days of old? If the stones were to speak, they could tell of their breaker, how he took them from the quarry, and made them fit for the temple, and cannot we tell of our glorious Breaker, who broke our hearts with the hammer of His word, that He might build us into His temple? If the stones should cry out they would magnify their builder, who polished them and fashioned them after the similitude of a palace; and shall not we talk of our Architect and Builder, who has put us in our place in the temple of the living God? If the stones could cry out, they might have a long, long story to tell by way of memorial, for many a time hath a great stone been rolled as a memorial before the Lord; and we too can testify of Ebenezers, stones of help, pillars of remembrance. The broken stones of the law cry out against us, but Christ Himself, who has rolled away the stone from the door of the sepulchre, speaks for us. Stones might well cry out, but we will not let them: we will hush their noise with ours; we will break forth into sacred song, and bless the majesty of the Most High, all our days glorifying Him who is called by Jacob the Shepherd and Stone of Israel.

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THE BIG PICTURE:

CHRIST'S AGONY IN THE GARDEN. 22:39-46

Every description which the evangelists give of the state of mind in which our Lord entered upon this conflict, proves the tremendous nature of the assault, and the perfect foreknowledge of its terrors possessed by the meek and lowly Jesus. Here are three things not in the other evangelists. 1. When Christ was in his agony, there appeared to him an angel from heaven, strengthening him. It was a part of his humiliation that he was thus strengthened by a ministering spirit. 2. Being in agony, he prayed more earnestly. Prayer, though never out of season, is in a special manner seasonable when we are in an agony. 3. In this agony his sweat was as it were great drops of blood falling down. This showed the travail of his soul. We should pray also to be enabled to resist unto the shedding of our blood, striving against sin, if ever called to it. When next you dwell in imagination upon the delights of some favourite sin, think of its effects as you behold them here! See its fearful effects in the garden of Gethsemane, and desire, by the help of God, deeply to hate and to forsake that enemy, to ransom sinners from whom the Redeemer prayed, agonized, and bled.

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THE BIG PICTURE:

CHRIST ENTERS JERUSALEM. 19:28-40

Christ has dominion over all creatures, and may use them as he pleases. He has all men's hearts both under his eye and in his hand. Christ's triumphs, and his disciples' joyful praises, vex proud Pharisees, who are enemies to him and to his kingdom. But Christ, as he despises the contempt of the proud, so he accepts the praises of the humble. Pharisees would silence the praises of Christ, but they cannot; for as God can out of stones raise up children unto Abraham, and turn the stony heart to himself, so he can bring praise out of the mouths of children. And what will be the feelings of men when the Lord returns in glory to judge the world!__________________________________________________________________ PRAYER:

Heavenly Father,
I bow in worship and praise before you. I cover myself with the blood of Jesus Christ and claim the protection of the blood for my family, my finances, my home, my spirit, soul and body. I surrender myself completely in every area of my life to you. I take a stand against all the workings of the devil that would try and hinder me and my family from best serving you. I address myself only to the true and living God who has all power and control over everything. satan, I command you and all your demon forces of darkness, in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ to leave my presence. I bring the blood of Jesus Christ between the devil and my family, my home, my finances, my spirit, soul and body. In Jesus Name

I declare, therefore, that satan and his wicked spirits are subject to me in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. Furthermore, in my own life today I destroy and tear down all the strongholds of satan and smash the plans of satan that have been formed against me and my family. I tear down the strongholds of the devil against my mind and I surrender my mind to you, Blessed Holy Spirit.

I affirm, Heavenly Father, that you have not given me the spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind (2 Timothy 1:7). Therefore, I resist the spirit of fear, in the name of Jesus, the Son of the Living God, and I refuse to fear, refuse to doubt, refuse to worry, because I have authority (power) over all the power of the enemy and nothing shall by any means hurt me (Luke 10:19).

I claim complete and absolute victory over the forces of darkness in the name of Jesus and I bind the devil and command him to loose my peace, joy, prosperity, and every member of my family for the glory of God and by FAITH I call it done. I break and smash the strongholds of Satan formed against my emotions today and give my emotions to you, Lord Jesus. I destroy the strongholds of satan against my body today and I give my body to you Lord Jesus, realizing that I am the Temple of the Holy Ghost (I Corinthians 3:16, I Corinthians 6:19-20).

Again, I cover myself with the blood of the Lord Jesus Christ and pray that the Holy Ghost would bring all the work of the crucifixion, all the work of the resurrection, all the work of the ascension and all the work of restoration of the Lord Jesus Christ into my life today. I surrender my life and possessions to you. I refuse to fear, worry, or be discouraged in the name of Jesus. I will not hate, envy, or show any type of bitterness toward my brothers, sisters, or my enemies, but I will LOVE them with the love of God shed aboard in my heart by the Holy Ghost.

Open my eyes and show me the areas of my life that do not please you and give me the strength, grace and wisdom to remove any sin or weight that would prevent your close fellowship. Work in me to cleanse me from all ground that would give the devil a foothold against me. I claim in every way the victory of the cross over all satanic forces in my life. I pray in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ with thanksgiving and I welcome all the ministry of the Holy Spirit. In the name and power of the Blood of Jesus, Father God, (we) ask You in protecting Iris Ministries in Maputo,Mozambique,Zimpeto, right now for they have been hit with bombs that are hitting that villiage and the church in keeping the children centers safe in your everlasting arms.

satan, (we) come against you in the Name of the Lord Jesus Christ (we) (are) armed with the blood (Rev.12:11) and the Word of God, (our) Sword (Eph.6:17). Right now (we) pierce you through with the truth that Jesus Christ came in the flesh to destroy your works (1 Jn. 3:8).
Even now, as (we) lift (our) praises to the Lord, the chief prince (Dan. 10:13) assigned to rule over this home, ministry, city, etc has been bound with fetters of iron (Psa. 149:8). (we) break the assignment of the world ruler over this entire Iris Ministries in the Name of Jesus satan, you are also bound with chains of iron. Whatever we bind on earth is bound in heaven (Mt. 18:18) and with that authority (we) cast you down. By faith we scatter every heavenly force arrayed against (us) as holy angels smite them on our behalf (II Kings 19:35). Greater is He that is in us and more powerful are those with us than those with you (I Jn.4:4). Jesus Christ Himself sends His Word to deliver (us) from your devices (we) put to flight every demonic power in this Iris Ministries that would hinder the work and word of God going forth in this place. Satan (‘we) have bound your chiefs, therefore all your demons grope in darkness, staggering as we smite them by the resurrection power of Jesus. (we) laugh and God laughs (Psa. 2:4) as (we) see you brought to derision as you recognize that you must bow at the name of Jesus (Phil.2:10). Jesus is Lord over these homes, ministries, cities, countries, etc. Now by faith (we) loose the peace and grace and truth of Christ. Come Holy Spirit and do Your good work here, saving, healing, delivering, as (we) see Your Kingdom established (Rev. 11:15) to the glory of the Father. In Jeus'Name we pray. Amen.

_________________________________________________________________ Thank You for allow in this site,group sites, web sites and other prayer sites as well in holding one another up for prayer's being totally united in everyone around this world, it's about Jesus Christ first and prayers,intecessory prayer's and at other times about this vast world we live in today which this old world as we all know it is slowly departing to be reaching our home in glory.

Heidi Baker Emergency Update: She says bombs are hitting their church and their children's center with children in it--PRAY!

relief, God Himself would intervene. That even that which the enemy intended for evil would be used for good. We want our entire nation transformed by the glory of God. Nothing less.
In love with Jesus,
Shara Pradhan (for Rolland & Heidi Baker)
Source: Iris Ministries

Thursday, March 22, 2007

Morning Verse

"And He went a little farther, and fell on His face, and prayed." Matthew 26:39

There are several instructive features in our Saviour's prayer in His hour of trial. It was lonely prayer. He withdrew even from His three favoured disciples. Believer, be much in solitary prayer, especially in times of trial. Family prayer, social prayer, prayer in the Church, will not suffice, these are very precious, but the best beaten spice will smoke in your censer in your private devotions, where no ear hears but God's.

It was humble prayer. Luke says He knelt, but another evangelist says He "fell on His face." Where, then, must be THY place, thou humble servant of the great Master? What dust and ashes should cover thy head! Humility gives us good foot-hold in prayer. There is no hope of prevalence with God unless we abase ourselves that He may exalt us in due time.

It was filial prayer. "Abba, Father." You will find it a stronghold in the day of trial to plead your adoption. You have no rights as a subject, you have forfeited them by your treason; but nothing can forfeit a child's right to a father's protection. Be not afraid to say, "My Father, hear my cry."

Observe that it was persevering prayer. He prayed three times. Cease not until you prevail. Be as the importunate widow, whose continual coming earned what her first supplication could not win. Continue in prayer, and watch in the same with thanksgiving.

Lastly, it was the prayer of resignation. "Nevertheless, not as I will, but as thou wilt." Yield, and God yields. Let it be as God wills, and God will determine for the best. Be thou content to leave thy prayer in his hands, who knows when to give, and how to give, and what to give, and what to withhold. So pleading, earnestly, importunately, yet with humility and resignation, thou shalt surely prevail.

Evening Verse

"Father, I will that they also, whom Thou hast given Me, be with Me where I am." John 17:24

O death! why dost thou touch the tree beneath whose spreading branches weariness hath rest? Why dost thou snatch away the excellent of the earth, in whom is all our delight? If thou must use thine axe, use it upon the trees which yield no fruit; thou mightest be thanked then. But why wilt thou fell the goodly cedars of Lebanon? O stay thine axe, and spare the righteous. But no, it must not be; death smites the goodliest of our friends; the most generous, the most prayerful, the most holy, the most devoted must die. And why? It is through Jesus' prevailing prayer--"Father, I will that they also, whom Thou hast given Me, be with Me where I am." It is that which bears them on eagle's wings to heaven. Every time a believer mounts from this earth to paradise, it is an answer to Christ's prayer. A good old divine remarks, "Many times Jesus and His people pull against one another in prayer. You bend your knee in prayer and say 'Father, I will that Thy saints be with me where I am'; Christ says, 'Father, I will that they also, whom Thou hast given Me, be with Me where I am.'" Thus the disciple is at cross-purposes with his Lord. The soul cannot be in both places: the beloved one cannot be with Christ and with you too. Now, which pleader shall win the day? If you had your choice; if the King should step from His throne, and say, "Here are two supplicants praying in opposition to one another, which shall be answered?" Oh! I am sure, though it were agony, you would start from your feet, and say, "Jesus, not my will, but Thine be done." You would give up your prayer for your loved one's life, if you could realize the thoughts that Christ is praying in the opposite direction--"Father, I will that they also, whom Thou hast given Me, be with Me where I am." Lord, Thou shalt have them. By faith we let them go.

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HIS AGONY IN THE GARDEN. 26:36-46

He who made atonement for the sins of mankind, submitted himself in a garden of suffering, to the will of God, from which man had revolted in a garden of pleasure. Christ took with him into that part of the garden where he suffered his agony, only those who had witnessed his glory in his transfiguration. Those are best prepared to suffer with Christ, who have by faith beheld his glory. The words used denote the most entire dejection, amazement, anguish, and horror of mind; the state of one surrounded with sorrows, overwhelmed with miseries, and almost swallowed up with terror and dismay. He now began to be sorrowful, and never ceased to be so till he said, It is finished. He prayed that, if possible, the cup might pass from him. But he also showed his perfect readiness to bear the load of his sufferings; he was willing to submit to all for our redemption and salvation. According to this example of Christ, we must drink of the bitterest cup which God puts into our hands; though nature struggle, it must submit. It should be more our care to get troubles sanctified, and our hearts satisfied under them, than to get them taken away. It is well for us that our salvation is in the hand of One who neither slumbers nor sleeps. All are tempted, but we should be much afraid of entering into temptation. To be secured from this, we should watch and pray, and continually look unto the Lord to hold us up that we may be safe. Doubtless our Lord had a clear and full view of the sufferings he was to endure, yet he spoke with the greatest calmness till this time. Christ was a Surety, who undertook to be answerable for our sins. Accordingly he was made sin for us, and suffered for our sins, the Just for the unjust; and Scripture ascribes his heaviest sufferings to the hand of God. He had full knowledge of the infinite evil of sin, and of the immense extent of that guilt for which he was to atone; with awful views of the Divine justice and holiness, and the punishment deserved by the sins of men, such as no tongue can express, or mind conceive. At the same time, Christ suffered being tempted; probably horrible thoughts were suggested by Satan that tended to gloom and every dreadful conclusion: these would be the more hard to bear from his perfect holiness. And did the load of imputed guilt so weigh down the soul of Him of whom it is said, He upholdeth all things by the word of his power? into what misery then must those sink whose sins are left upon their own heads! How will those escape who neglect so great salvation? ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ HIS PRAYER: 17:24-26

Christ, as one with the Father, claimed on behalf of all that had been given to him, and should in due time believe on him, that they should be brought to heaven; and that there the whole company of the redeemed might behold his glory as their beloved Friend and Brother, and therein find happiness. He had declared and would further declare the name or character of God, by his doctrine and his Spirit, that, being one with him, the love of the Father to him might abide with them also. Thus, being joined to Him by one Spirit, they might be filled with all the fulness of God, and enjoy a blessedness of which we can form no right idea in our present state.

catcmo2006 would like to Thank You for allow in this site,group sites, web sites and other prayer sites as well in holding one another up for prayer's being totally united in everyone around this world, it's about Jesus Christ first and prayers,intecessory prayer's and at other times about this vast world we live in today which this old world as we all know it is slowly departing to be reaching our home in glory.

Wednesday, March 21, 2007

Father's Declaration Unto Us

Behold, the hour cometh, yea, is now come, that ye shall be scattered, every man to his own , and shall leave me alone : and yet I am not alone , because the Father is with me . [John 16:32] ~~~~~~~~~~~~~DECLARATION~~~~~~~~~~~~~ DECLARATION; DECLARE

dek-la-ra'-shun, deklar':

"Declare" is the translation of a variety of Hebrew and Greek words in the Old Testament and New Testament, appearing to bear uniformly the meaning "to make known," "set forth," rather than (the older meaning) "to explain" (Deuteronomy 1:5). Declaration (Esther 10:2 the King James Version, the Revised Version (British and American) "full account"; Job 13:17; Ecc 43:6; Lu 11 the King James Version, the Revised Version (British and American) "narrative"; 2 Corinthians 8:19 the King James Version, the Revised Version (British and American) "to show") has the like meaning.

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CHRIST'S DISCOVERIES OF HIMSELF. 16:28-33

Here is a plain declaration of Christ's coming from the Father, and his return to him. The Redeemer, in his entrance, was God manifest in the flesh, and in his departure was received up into glory. By this saying the disciples improved in knowledge. Also in faith; "Now are we sure." Alas! they knew not their own weakness. The Divine nature did not desert the human nature, but supported it, and put comfort and value into Christ's sufferings. And while we have God's favourable presence, we are happy, and ought to be easy, though all the world forsake us. Peace in Christ is the only true peace, in him alone believers have it. Through him we have peace with God, and so in him we have peace in our own minds. We ought to be encouraged, because Christ has overcome the world before us. But while we think we stand, let us take heed lest we fall. We know not how we should act if brought into temptation; let us watch and pray without ceasing, that we may not be left to ourselves. Just Believe ! Enjoy His Peace Within Us !

catcmo2006 would like to: Thank You for allow in this site,group sites, web sites and other prayer sites as well in holding one another up for prayer's being totally united in everyone around this world, it's about Jesus Christ first and prayers,intecessory prayer's and at other times about this vast world we live in today which this old world as we all know it is slowly departing to be reaching our home in glory.

The Wisdom Of Solomon

Proverbs 12:5-7(KJV): 5 The thoughts of the righteous are right: but the counsels of the wicked are deceit. 6 The words of the wicked are to lie in wait for blood: but the mouth of the upright shall deliver them. 7 The wicked are overthrown, and are not: but the house of the righteous shall stand.


Thoughts for the Day The book of Proverbs contrasts the thoughts and the words of the righteous against those of the wicked. Looking at these verses carefully, we notice that sin and righteousness both proceed from the heart, then they become thoughts in the mind and finally they become deeds. The deeds manifest according to the thoughts, as to whether they are good or evil. Notice the progression. Sin begins in a man's heart, then a man will have thoughts about the sin, then the mouth will speak of those sins, then the man will actually commit those sins. The same is true of righteousness as it will proceed from the heart, then form as righteous thoughts, then he will speak of those thoughts, and finally he will act upon them, and bring them forth as righteous deeds. Jesus speaks these words in Mark 7:20-23: 20 And he said, That which cometh out of the man, that defileth the man. 21 For from within, out of the heart of men, proceed evil thoughts, adulteries, fornications, murders, 22 Thefts, covetousness, wickedness, deceit, lasciviousness, an evil eye, blasphemy, pride, foolishness: 23 All these evil things come from within, and defile the man. How can we have a change of heart and be free from sin? The Bible tells us that we are all born with sin in our hearts, and the only way we can be free from sin and its evil deeds is to be "born again." That can only come if we choose to confess our sins and ask God to forgive us. Then we must invite Him to come into our lives and give us a new heart. As we surrender our life to Him and die to our way, the power of the Holy Spirit will break the power of sin in our lives. Romans 6:6-13(RSV): 6 We know that our old self was crucified with him so that the sinful body might be destroyed, and we might no longer be enslaved to sin. 7 For he who has died is freed from sin. 8 But if we have died with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with him. 9 For we know that Christ being raised from the dead will never die again; death no longer has dominion over him. 10 The death he died he died to sin, once for all, but the life he lives he lives to God. 11 So you also must consider yourselves dead to sin and alive to God in Christ Jesus. 12 Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal bodies, to make you obey their passions. 13 Do not yield your members to sin as instruments of wickedness, but yield yourselves to God as men who have been brought from death to life, and your members to God as instruments of righteousness. Verse 6 of our Proverbs study tells us that the wicked will plot murder with his mouth, while the righteous will prevent the same evil with his mouth? How? Through our prayers. As we pray in faith for the safety of our families, and speak God's protection over them, we are actually destroying the the plans of the wicked. (Psalm 91 is a chapter in the Bible that promises us protection and we can read it over us, and also speak it for those for whom we pray). Verse 7 says the wicked are overthrown, while the house of the righteous will stand. Isaiah 54:17: "No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper; and every tongue that shall rise against thee in judgment thou shalt condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the LORD, and their righteousness is of me, saith the LORD." We must guard our hearts and not allow evil things to come into our spirits. Wrong things will produce evil fruit. This is also true for our children. Satan will try to enter through our eye and ear gates. We must be careful about the things we watch on TV and read in books. We must monitor the games and music our children hear. When evil enters the heart, then it will bring evil suggestions to the mind and eventually tempt us to act upon those evil ideas. It is not a sin to have an evil thought; however, it is sin to dwell upon that thought and consider it. We must rebuke evil thoughts from our minds with the Word of God. For instance, if the devil is causing us to covet anything that belongs to another, we must put that thought to flight and be content with what the Lord has given us. He will bless us in due time, if we are not jealous of what someone else has. The Lord wants to bless all His children. We must resist evil thoughts and keep our minds on the things of God in order to walk in victory. James 4:6-7: "Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded."


Prayer for the Day Dear Heavenly Father, I am grateful for all the times Your hand of protection has been over me and my family. Thank you for watching over us. Lord, help me to keep my thoughts on good things and take those things out of my heart that are not like You. Forgive me when I dwell on wrong thoughts and I fail to resist the devil immediately. I do want a clean heart and a pure mind. Help me to resist the evil that is in this world. Lord, I pray for all the Christian parents who are raising their children in this crooked generation. Give them wisdom and love as they instruct their children in the ways of the Bible. Lord, take the rebellion from the hearts of those young people who have perverted thinking. Protect our children in the schools and on the streets. Have mercy on all of us, and give us Your grace to be good examples to our children and the young people we know. In the name of Jesus, I ask. Amen.

Morning & Evening Devotionals

March 21, Morning

Be watchful, and strengthen the things which remain, that are ready to die.

The end of all things is at hand: be ye therefore sober, and watch unto prayer. Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour. Take heed to thyself, and keep thy soul diligently, lest thou forget the things which thine eyes have seen, and lest they depart from thy heart all the days of thy life. The just shall live by faith: but if any man draw back, my soul shall have no pleasure in him. But we are not of them who draw back unto perdition; but of them that believe to the saving of the soul.
What I say unto you I say unto all, Watch.
Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness. I the Lord thy God will hold thy right hand.

Rev. 3:2. 1 Pet. 4:7. 1 Pet. 5:8. Deut. 4:9. Heb. 10:38,39. Mark 13:37. Isa. 41:10,13.

March 21, Evening

Is his mercy clean gone for ever?

His mercy endureth for ever. The Lord is longsuffering, and of great mercy. Who is a God like unto thee, that pardoneth iniquity? ... he retaineth not his anger for ever, because he delighteth in mercy. He will turn again, he will have compassion upon us; he will subdue our iniquities; and thou wilt cast all their sin into the depths of the sea. Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us.
Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort; who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God.
A merciful and faithful high priest in things pertaining to God to make reconciliation for the sins of the people. For in that himself hath suffered being tempted, he is able to succour them that are tempted.

Ps. 77:8. Ps. 136:23. Num. 14:18. Mic. 7:18,19. Titus 3:5. 2 Cor. 1:3,4. Heb. 2:17,15.

catcmo2006 would like to:Thank You for allow in this site,group sites, web sites and other prayer sites as well in holding one another up for prayer's being totally united in everyone around this world, it's about Jesus Christ first and prayers,intecessory prayer's and at other times about this vast world we live in today which this old world as we all know it is slowly departing to be reaching our home in glory.

Monday, March 19, 2007

The Wisdom Of Solomon

Proverbs 12:1-3:(KJV): 1 Whoso loveth instruction loveth knowledge: but he that hateth reproof is brutish. 2 A good man obtaineth favour of the LORD: but a man of wicked devices will he condemn. 3 A man shall not be established by wickedness: but the root of the righteous shall not be moved.


Thoughts for the Day The book of Proverbs is a wonderful book of instruction in the knowledge of the Lord. Verse 1 tells us that those who love instruction will love the knowledge of the Lord. We must remember that with all instruction comes reproof. A good teacher instructs us in our learning, but a good teacher also corrects us when we make mistakes or when we are doing something that is wrong. We should be most grateful that the Lord corrects us when we stray from His will. If we continued in a path of folly it would eventually destroy us. How does God correct or chasten us? These verses in Hebrews 12 tell us that He deals with us as a father does with a son. 5 And ye have forgotten the exhortation which speaketh unto you as unto children, My son, despise not thou the chastening of the Lord, nor faint when thou art rebuked of him: 6 For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth. 7 If ye endure chastening, God dealeth with you as with sons; for what son is he whom the father chasteneth not? 8 But if ye be without chastisement, whereof all are partakers, then are ye bastards, and not sons. 9 Furthermore we have had fathers of our flesh which corrected us, and we gave them reverence: shall we not much rather be in subjection unto the Father of spirits, and live? 10 For they verily for a few days chastened us after their own pleasure; but he for our profit, that we might be partakers of his holiness. 11 Now no chastening for the present seemeth to be joyous, but grievous: nevertheless afterward it yieldeth the peaceable fruit of righteousness unto them which are exercised thereby. The Lord corrects us the same way a good earthly father or a good school teacher corrects us. A teacher will instruct us from a textbook and ask us to study so that we can pass the exams. If we are a good student, we will do our homework and apply the knowledge we learn and will be able to pass the test. The Lord has given us our teacher, the Holy Spirit, and our textbook, the Bible, in the same manner. If we study and apply the Word of God to our lives, we will be able to pass the tests of life. If we ignore the Word of God and try to do things our own way, we will experience suffering and heartache that God does not intend for us to go through. We will reap the fruit of our sin that comes from our failure to obey the Holy Spirit and the Word of God. Because the Lord loves His children so much, He will help us when we get into trouble and show us the way out, if we seek Him and yield to His way. God does not put sickness on His children to teach us, nor does He send tragic accidents. These things come from the devil. All through the New Testament, we find Jesus healing all that came to Him. He did not refuse one person who came to Him for healing or deliverance. He never put things on people; He was always helping people get free and healing them. We suffer under these things because of the devil, but Jesus came to redeem us from the works of the devil and unrighteousness. Verse 2 tells us when we accept Christ's goodness that we will have the favor of God in our lives. Only wicked and sinful men are condemned, and that is because they refuse to repent and come to Jesus for deliverance. Verse 3 declares that a man can never be established by wickedness. The wicked are unstable. The Bible speaks of them in this manner in Isaiah 57: 20 But the wicked are like the troubled sea, when it cannot rest, whose waters cast up mire and dirt. 21 There is no peace, saith my God, to the wicked. On the other hand, the righteous are like a strong tree that has deep roots and cannot be moved, even when drought or storms comes. Jeremiah 17:7-8: "Blessed is the man that trusteth in the LORD, and whose hope the LORD is. For he shall be as a tree planted by the waters, and that spreadeth out her roots by the river, and shall not see when heat cometh, but her leaf shall be green; and shall not be careful in the year of drought, neither shall cease from yielding fruit." Psalm 1:3: "And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper."

Prayer for the Day

Dear Heavenly Father, I am thankful for Your love and the favor that You have given me. I do thank You when You have corrected me, even though it was not pleasant, as I know You love me enough not to allow the enemy to destroy me. Please continue to do Your work in my heart, as I do want to become like You, and I want You to remove those things that offend You. Forgive me when I fail You. I am grateful that I can call on Your mercy and grace when I am in trouble, and that You hear me and rescue me. Give me a love for prayer and the word of God, so that my steps will not falter and I can walk in Your will. Fill me with Your love this day so that I may bless those around me. I ask this in the name of Jesus. Amen.

catcmo2006 would like toThank You for allow in this site,group sites, web sites and other prayer sites as well in holding one another up for prayer's being totally united in everyone around this world, it's about Jesus Christ first and prayers,intecessory prayer's and at other times about this vast world we live in today which this old world as we all know it is slowly departing to be reaching our home in glory.

Morning & Evening Devotionals

March 19, Morning

God, having raised up his Son Jesus, sent him to bless you, in the turning away every one of you from his iniquities.

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercies hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. Saved by his life.
Our Saviour Jesus Christ ... who gave himself for us that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works. As he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation; because it is written, Be ye holy for I am holy.
The God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, ... hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ. In him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily. And ye are complete in him. Of his fulness have all we received, and grace for grace.
He that spared not his own son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things?

Acts 3:26. 1 Pet. 1:3. Rom. 5:10. Titus 2:13,14. 1 Pet. 1:15,16. Eph. 1:3. Col. 2:9,10. John 1:16. Rom. 8:32.


March 19, Evening Strengthen thou me according unto thy word. Remember the word unto thy servant, upon which thou has caused me to hope. O Lord, I am oppressed; undertake for me. Heaven and earth shall pass away: but my words shall not pass away. Ye know in all your hearts and in all your souls, that not one thing hath failed of all the good things which the Lord your God spake concerning you; all are come to pass unto you, and not one thing hath failed thereof. Fear not: peace be unto thee, be strong, yea, be strong. And when he had spoken unto me, I was strengthened, and said, Let my lord speak; for thou hast strengthened me. Be strong, ... and work: for I am with you, saith the Lord of hosts. Not by might nor by power, but by my spirit, saith the Lord of hosts. Be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. Ps. 119:28. Ps. 119:49. Isa. 38:14. Luke 21:33. Josh. 23:14. Dan. 10:1. Hag. 2:4. Zech. 4:6. Eph. 6:10.

Christian Family And It's Biblical Truths

The FAMILY is the oldest of three institutions ordained of God, the others are human government and the church. The family and the church are complementary institutions. The greatest home is one built around a church, and the greatest church is one made up of families. Satan realizes the most effective way to stifle the church is to attack the families. Consequently, we see tremendous perversion and disintegration of the family today. This section of the course consists of two parts, marriage and parenting. We begin with the foundation of the family institution, marriage.

I) MARRIAGE

A) DEFINITION OF MARRIAGE

"The act of uniting a man and a woman for life; wedlock; the legal union of a man and woman for life. Marriage is a contract both civil and religious, by which the parties engage to live together in mutual affection and fidelity, till death shall separate them. Marriage was instituted by God himself for the purpose of preventing the promiscuous intercourse of the sexes, for promoting domestic felicity, and for securing the maintenance and education of children."

1) Commendable (Heb 13:4)

2) Companionship "It is not good that the man should be alone" (Gen 2:18) cf. (Mal 2:14)

3) Compatibility "I will make him an help MEET for him" (Gen 2:18)

4) Combination "Therefore shall A MAN…cleave unto his WIFE" (Gen 2:24)

a) It is to be heterosexual, not homosexual (one MAN + one WOMAN)

b) It is to be monogamist, not polygamist (ONE man + ONE woman)

c) One man + one woman = a marriage

5) Commitment "Therefore shall a man…CLEAVE unto his wife" (Gen 2:24)

The word cleave implies no future separation. One man + one woman + one LIFETIME = a marriage.

6) Communion "they shall be one flesh" (Gen 2:24)

a) Marriage is a SPIRITUAL union (Gen 2:22; Mark 10:9; 1 Cor 7:39)

b) Marriage is a CIVIL union

1. The espousal (engagement) (Matt 1:18-20,24)

The word of God considered, and the angel of the Lord called, Joseph and Mary husband and wife although they were only espoused to one another. The espousal was the only legal part of marriage in Jewish society, and could not be broken except by a bill of divorcement. In the espousal, all legal documents were signed and contracts completed, specifying the time between the espousal and the actual marriage.

2. The ceremony (Jud 14:15-16,20; 15:1,6)

The word of God considered Samson and a woman of Timnath husband and wife as they proceeded through the week-long wedding feast (ceremony) (Jud 14:10,12). Some argue that a ceremony is not necessary if two people love each other, but the Lord Jesus Christ attended a wedding ceremony in Cana of Galilee (John 2:1-11). The ceremony is: (1) PRESCRIBED, in order to "abstain from all appearance of evil" (1 The 5:22); (2) PRACTICAL, in that it provides an opportunity for the two parties to publicly declare their love and commitment to each other; and (3) PROPHETICAL, in that it pictures the marriage of the Lamb (Rev 19:7-8).

c) Marriage is a PHYSICAL union (Gen 2:24)

1. For propagation (Gen 1:28)

2. For prevention (1 Cor 7:2,9; Heb 13:4)

As previously stated in the dictionary definition, one of the purposes of marriage is to prevent promiscuous sexual relations. Sexual intercourse is one of the privileges and pleasures of the marital relationship. Sexual intercourse outside of marriage has serious consequences, including that the word of God considers a man who has committed fornication with a harlot to be married to her (1 Cor 6:15-16,18).

3. For pleasure (1 Cor 7:3; Heb 13:4)

B) DECISION OF MARRIAGE (Pre-Marital Considerations)

1) Receive wise counsel

There is a need for pre-marital counseling. Most marital counseling programs are secular and non-Biblical, and even most of those that are Biblical focus on existing marriages. But even if Biblical counseling is available, the individual(s) must be willing to receive it. There are two main sources of counseling for the Bible-believing Christian:

a) Godly parents

Godly parents have experience, wisdom, want what is best for their children, and see the "big picture".

b) A godly pastor

The pastor can be more objective than parents, understands the Bible better than anyone else, and is specially gifted and positioned by God to counsel on marriage (Amo 3:7; Heb 13:7,17).

The Christian should not seek counsel from the world's marriage counselors, sociologists, psychologists, or psychiatrists. These individuals may be sincere in their desire and effort to help people, but they are not adequately equipped, nor are they divinely appointed, to address spiritual matters, and a Christian marriage is a SPIRITUAL matter.

2) Regard the PURPOSE for the marriage

a) The wrong reasons

1. To CONVERT the other person to Christ

Desiring to see the other person saved is commendable, but using marriage as a means of achieving that end is unwise and unscriptural (2 Cor 6:14). Seek to win them to Christ BEFORE marriage, or even dating.

2. To CONFORM the other person to a physical, social, or philosophical ideal

Many have made the mistake of assuming they could change the other person if they married them. Both parties need to be willing to marry the other person "as is", not "as they may be". Marriage should not be considered based on a person's POTENTIAL character but their PRESENT character.

3. To COMPLY with the expectations of others

a. Due to pregnancy (the Christian should NEVER be in this situation)

b. Due to promises (including engagement)

c. Due to perceptions

4. The COMELINESS of the other person (i.e.- physical attraction)

There should be a degree of physical attraction between the two parties, but beauty is vain and temporal (Pro 31:30) and should not be the sole or primary reason for marriage.

a. Time and gravity will eventually defeat the plastic surgeon and cosmetologist

b. Illness or injury can permanently disfigure or disable

5. The CLASS of the other person (i.e.- social status or wealth)

Marriage should be with a PERSON, not their POSSESSIONS. Riches and power are temporal (Pro 23:5; 27:24).

6. To CONFRONT feelings of desperation

a. Abstinence- some marry because they cannot control their sexual lusts any longer

b. Acceptance- some marry the first person that shows an interest in them because they do not believe any one else ever will show an interest in them

c. Age- some marry because they believe they are at an age where if they do not marry now they never will

b) The right reason

The right reason for marriage is because the two parties LOVE each other unconditionally and want to spend the rest of their lives together, including raising a family together. Love is not the same thing as lust. Two people can have "lust" at first sight, but not love. Love is the result of spiritual and physical compatibility between two people, and the reason the two people desire to commit themselves to each other for a lifetime.

3) Regard the PERSON for marriage

a) The wrong person

The information below applies to dating also since dating is the beginning of a relationship that eventually ends in marriage.

1. A non-Christian

a. It is against the COMMAND of God (1 Cor 7:39; 2 Cor 6:14)

b. There will be no spiritual COMPATIBILITY (2 Cor 6:15-16)

c. There will be no spiritual COMPANIONSHIP (Job 21:14; Psa 10:5; 2 Tim 3:4)

d. There will be spiritual COMPROMISE in order to appease the unsaved spouse

The saved usually embrace the gods of the lost in a "mixed marriage" (Num 25:1-3; 1 Kin 11:4).

e. There will be spiritual CONFUSION among the children (Neh 13:23-24; 1 Cor 14:33)

The Bible instructs us not to have fellowship with the following individuals; therefore, they are professing Christians. If this instruction applies to fellowship, it would certainly apply to marriage since it is the highest form of fellowship.

2. A person living in sin (Pro 24:1; Eph 5:11; 2 Tim 2:21)

3. A person with a bad temper (Pro 21:19; 22:24-25; 29:22)

4. A trouble-maker (Pro 6:19; Rom 16:17)

5. A heretic (Rom 16:17; Tit 3:10)

A heretic is, "one who holds or teaches doctrine contrary to scripture". Teaching doctrine contrary to the fundamentals of the Christian faith would certainly constitute heresy. Things become uncertain when non-fundamentals are considered. Marrying a person who does not believe in all the fundamentals of the Christian faith, especially doctrines related to the Lord Jesus Christ and salvation, is PROHIBITED. Marrying a person who is saved, believes in all the fundamentals of the faith, but belongs to a different denomination, is NOT PREFERRABLE. The Christian who does so anyway, will experience spiritual compromise and confusion in the family.

6. A fornicator (1 Cor 5:9,11)

Marrying a fornicator will result in a relationship based on mistrust, many long and lonely nights wondering if the other person is sleeping with somebody else, and constant fear of potential contraction of venereal disease or AIDS.

7. A covetous person (1 Cor 5:11; 1 Tim 6:5)

Marrying a covetous person will result in a relationship filled with financial problems, including unpaid bills and skyrocketing debt (Pro 21:20; Hag 1:6).

8. An idolator (1 Cor 5:11)

9. A railer (1 Cor 5:11)

The word railer is translated from the Greek word blasfhmos (transliterated blasphemy) (1 Tim 6:4; 2 Pet 2:11; Jude 9). The word means, "to jab; to molest; to revile; to scoff; to use insolent or reproachful language; to insult". Marrying a railer will result in a relationship where there is frequent cussing and verbal abuse.

10. A glutton or drunkard (includes alcohol and drugs) (Pro 23:20;1 Cor 5:11)

Marring a glutton, drunkard, or druggie, will result in a relationship headed for financial ruin due to the need to support the other person's "habit" (Pro 23:21). There will also be constant health and safety issues (Pro 4:17). The family could be in constant fear of their lives, not knowing which "person" will come home to them, or even if they will come home.

11. An extortioner (1 Cor 5:11)

The word extort means, "to gain by force, oppression, violence, or any illegal means". Marrying an extortioner, will result in a relationship where there is physical abuse and constant bouts with the law.

12. A lazy person (2 The 3:6,11,14)

a. There will be financial and food problems (Pro 20:4; 2 The 3:10)

b. There will be hygiene and housekeeping problems (Pro 24:30-31)

c. There will be disharmony (Pro 26:16)

WHAT ABOUT INTERRACIAL MARRIAGE BETWEEN CHRISTIANS?

There are two things to consider regarding this highly sensitive subject: (1) the testimony of scripture, and (2) the testimony among men. The various races originated through Noah's sons after the Flood, and proliferated shortly thereafter. Since that time, God has determined boundaries for the various nations and races so that they would seek after him (Acts 17:26-27). The tower of Babel and the subsequent judgment (Gen 11:1-9) are indications of what will happen when man fails to recognize the boundaries and distinction God has made in the races. Interracial marriage not only violates the boundaries God has established, but more importantly, it will eventually result in a hybrid race that does not seek after God. The question is, does this racial distinction apply to Christians? If there is no clear New Testament testimony superseding this Old Testament distinction, then it is reasonable to conclude it applies to the Christian. But there are numerous New Testament scriptures indicating that all physical distinctions are done away with in Christ (Rom 10:12; 1 Cor 12:13; Gal 3:28; Col 3:11). Man may look on the outward appearance, but God looks upon the heart (1 Sam 16:7). In addition, contrary to popular opinion, there is no New Testament scripture prohibiting interracial marriage between two Christians. Many argue that the prohibition God placed on Israel regarding interracial marriage is a principle that ought to be followed by God's people today. But God did not prohibit the Israelites from marrying ALL Gentiles (Deu 21:10-13), just the Canaanites and other occupants of Canaan (Deu 7:1-4). The New Testament corollary is the prohibition of marrying an unbeliever (2 Cor 6:14-18). Therefore, the testimony of scripture is that interracial marriage between two Christians is NOT PROHIBITED. However, the Christian's testimony among men must also be considered. The Christian must keep in mind that his conduct has an effect on others, believers and unbelievers alike (Rom 14:7). Although something may be lawful, it may not be expedient or edifying (1 Cor 10:23). Just because the Christian has liberty to do something does not mean he ought to do it. Christians should not do anything that purposely offends another person (1 Cor 10:32) and gives place for them to think or speak evil of Christ. Most aspects of society and the church frown upon interracial marriage and consider it wrong. Consequently, if a Christian marries a person from another race, they will be viewed as doing something wrong, and that creates a poor testimony among men. Both the husband and wife, as well as any children, will have their fair share of "trouble in the flesh" (1 Cor 7:28). Therefore, the testimony among men, and the conclusion of the matter, is that interracial marriage between Christians is NOT PREFERRED.

b) The right person

The right person is GOD'S CHOICE (Gen 24:14), will be found in the right PLACE in the right WAY (Gen 24:27). For example, the right person can be found in church or church related functions, as opposed to bars or nightclubs. The right person may be introduced by a mutual spiritual friend, but is not waiting on the list of a dating service.

1. Reverse the characteristics of the wrong person (a Christian, a Christian serving the Lord, a person of self-control, sound in doctrine, similar beliefs, faithful, financially prudent, kind, honest, and industrious)

2. A person who has the right relationship with the Lord (see: PERSONAL DEVOTIONS)

3. A person who has the appropriate conduct of a brother or sister in Christ (see: FELLOWSHIP)

4. A person who has the appropriate conduct of a friend (see: FRIEND)

5. A person of virtue (Pro 31:10-31) NOTE

4) Regard the PERIOD of the marriage

a) The wrong time

It is possible to have the right person, but if the marriage takes place at the wrong time, it will probably end in divorce.

1. A time of spiritual, financial, or physical INSTABILITY (Luke 14:28-30; 1 Cor 7:26)

Cont: (Gen 24:35-41)

2. A time of UNCERTAINTY

a. Uncertain of the right purpose

b. Uncertain of the right person

c. Questions to help make decision

* Is the woman ready and willing to submit to the man as unto the Lord? (Eph 5:22)

* Is the man more spiritual than the woman? (Eph 5:23)

* Is the man ready and willing to be the head of the home? (Eph 5:23)

* Does the man love the woman sacrificially? (Eph 5:25)

* Is the man ready and willing to independently provide for the woman? (Eph 5:31)

* Does the woman revere the man? (Eph 5:33)

* Are the man and the woman best friends? (Song 5:16)

* Is there peace from the Lord? (Phl 4:6-7)

* Are the man and the woman willing to submit to the word of God as the final authority in their marriage? (2 Tim 3:16-17)

* Are the man and the woman willing to spend the rest of their life with each other? (Gen 2:24)

b) The right time

1. A time of spiritual, financial, and physical stability

2. A time of certainty

C) DUTIES OF MARRIAGE (Post-Marital Conduct)

1) The husband

a) To preside over his wife (Gen 3:16; 1 Tim 3:5)

The husband is responsible for being the spiritual and physical head of the family (1 Cor 11:3; Eph 5:23). This does not mean he is a dictator, or that he makes all the decisions, it does mean he is responsible for the decisions that are made.

b) To provide for his wife (Gen 3:16; 1 Tim 3:5; 5:8)

The husband is responsible for taking care of his family, and ensuring all their needs are met, physically, financially, and spiritually.

c) To love his wife (Eph 5:25)

1. As Christ loved the church (i.e.- sacrificially) (Eph 5:25)

2. As their own bodies (i.e.- unselfishly) (Eph 5:28-29,33)

3. As a sister in the Lord (1 Pet 3:8)

d) To render due benevolence to his wife (1 Cor 7:3)

He should not treat her like a possession or object of personal pleasure.

e) To defraud not his wife (1 Cor 7:5)

He should not refuse to give her physical intimacy.

f) To give honor to his wife (1 Pet 3:7)

g) To be compassionate to his wife (1 Pet 3:8)

h) To show pity to his wife (1 Pet 3:8)

i) To be courteous to his wife (1 Pet 3:8)

j) To render blessing to his wife instead of evil for evil or railing for railing (1 Pet 3:9)

k) To treat his wife like a sister in Christ (see: FELLOWSHIP)

l) To treat his wife like a friend (see: FRIEND)

2) The wife

a) To submit/be in subjection to her husband as unto the Lord (Eph 5:22,24; Tit 2:5; 1 Pet 3:1)

This does not mean that the wife is a slave to the husband and is obligated to obey anything and everything he tells her. The submission is "as unto the Lord", and the Lord would never tell us to do anything sinful or harmful. If the husband tells the wife to do something unscriptural, unlawful, unethical, or harmful, she is not obligated to obey. The same principle of submission applies in our relationship with government or employer.

b) To reverence her husband (Eph 5:33)

The word reverence means, "to give honor and respect". The wife should never criticize her husband in the presence of others.

c) To bear children for her husband (1 Tim 5:14)

d) To guide and keep the house for her husband (1 Tim 5:14; Tit 2:5)

The wife is responsible for "housekeeping" and taking care of the children. This truth is offensive to many contemporary women, who have been poisoned by the philosophy of the N.O.W. Today, it is very difficult for a family to get by on just the income of the man. It requires tremendous self-discipline and sacrifice on the part of the entire family. However, the benefits are invaluable. Our society is beginning to reap the results of having someone other than the wife raise the children.

e) To love their husband (Tit 2:4) as a brother in Christ (1 Pet 3:8)

f) To render due benevolence to her husband (1 Cor 7:3)

She should not treat him like a possession or object of personal pleasure.

g) To defraud not her husband (1 Cor 7:5)

She should not refuse to give him physical intimacy.

h) To be modest in appearance for her husband (1 Tim 2:9-10; 1 Pet 3:3-4)

i) To be compassionate to her husband (1 Pet 3:8)

j) To show pity to her husband (1 Pet 3:8)

k) To be courteous to her husband (1 Pet 3:8)

l) To render blessing to her husband instead of evil for evil or railing for railing (1 Pet 3:9)

m) To treat her husband like a brother in Christ (see: FELLOWSHIP)

n) To treat her husband like a friend (see: FRIEND)

II) PARENTING

A billboard on the side of the road contained a picture of a mother and father, and their baby, with a subtitle that read, "Its too bad they don't come with an instruction manual". The truth is, they do, but it is not Dr. Spock's books. The instruction manual on raising children is THE BIBLE.

A) RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE PARENTS

Although the following responsibilities are applicable to both parents, the Bible places ultimate responsibility on the father as the head of the family (Eph 6:4; Col 3:21; 1 Tim 3:4,12).

1) To TREASURE their children (Psa 127:3)

The word heritage means, "an inheritance; objects of special care". Children are a gracious gift from God (Gen 33:5; 48:9; Ruth 4:12-13; 1 Sam 1:27; Heb 2:13), but come with tremendous responsibility. God has entrusted the parents as stewards of the wonderful heritage of children; therefore, parents should seek the Lord for guidance and assistance in being faithful stewards (1 Cor 4:2) of their children.

a) Cherish them (1 The 2:7)

b) Exhort, comfort, and charge them (1 The 2:11)

c) Love them (Tit 2:4)

2) To TRAIN their children (Pro 22:6)

a) The PROCEDURES of the training ("Train up a child…")

1. The METHOD

a. Instruction (Pro 13:1)

* By word

* By deed

b. Correction (Discipline) (Pro 3:11-12)

* Verbal (admonition and rebuke) (Eph 6:4; Heb 12:5)

The word admonish means, "to warn or notify of a fault; to reprove with mildness; to counsel against wrong practices; to caution or advise; the first step in discipline".

The word rebuke means, "to chide; to reprimand; to reprehend for a fault; to criticize sharply; to check; an expression of strong disapproval". A rebuke is much stronger than an admonishment or reproof.

Following the Lord's example with his children, parents should almost always begin the disciplinary process with VERBAL correction.

* Physical (Eph 6:4)

The word nurture means, "to feed; to nourish; to train; to educate". The Greek word paideia that is translated as "nurture" (Eph 6:4) is also translated as "chastening" (Heb 12:7-8,11). The world calls child discipline of any physical form "child abuse". They insist "time outs", revoking of privileges (e.g.- no Internet, GameBoy, PlayStation, etc.) and grounding will sufficiently correct deviant behavior in a child. While these various forms of discipline can be effective, and certainly have their place in the disciplinary process, the Bible teaches that chastening with the "ROD of correction" (Pro 22:15) is necessary and right if it is done appropriately.

2. The MANNER

a. Child discipline must be done in the right PLACE

Parents should never strike their children on the back, chest, face, etc. The most common scenario is a parent striking a child on the mouth for lying or talking back. While this may be traditional in some families, it is inappropriate. The appropriate place is the buttocks. Apply the "board of education" to the "seat of learning".

b. Child discipline must be done for the right REASON

Parents should never discipline their children in anger or as a means of taking out their frustrations. If the parent feels they are on the verge of losing control of their emotions, they should send the child to their room until they regain control. A child is not going to learn from their parents if they are screaming at them. All discipline should be carried out because the parent LOVES their child (Pro 13:24), and wants the deviant behavior corrected. Parents who have disciplined their children know the old saying, "this is going to hurt me more than it is going to hurt you" is true. Parents should never apologize for disciplining their child, but should reassure them of their love and have a time of prayer with them, especially after the child has apologized.

c. Child discipline must be done in the right WAY

* Persistently

Parents should not avoid disciplining their children or sparing the rod, either partially because the child cries or accuses them of being mean and hateful (Pro 19:18), or completely (Pro 23:13) because they want to be their "friend". If the parent eases up on the discipline the moment the child begins to cry, the child will recognize this and will begin to cry (or fake it) almost before the first lick occurs.

* Consistently

Parents also need to be consistent in their form of discipline. One parent should not spank while the other does not, when the child does the same thing wrong. Parents should not spank their children for acting or speaking ignorantly. A good example of this is spanking a child for cussing when they are completely unaware they are doing so. Parents need to keep their word. If they have specified that a particular form of discipline is forthcoming to their child, it must be carried out.

d. Child discipline must be done at the right TIME

* Early

Parents need to begin disciplining their children as soon as it is apparent that the child KNOWS they are doing wrong (Pro 19:18). If parents wait until their children are at the end of, or no longer in, their formative years, to begin disciplining them, it could have counter-productive results.

* Expeditiously

Parents also need to carry out discipline in an expeditious manner. If the parent needs to wait a moment to "cool off", that is fine, but if the discipline is "put off", it will lose its desired effect and could breed anger and discouragement in the child when it is carried out. The Bible says, "he that loveth him chasteneth him betimes" (Pro 13:24). The word betimes means, "in good season or time; before it is too late; in a short time". Agag thought he would be spared any punishment because nothing happened to him within a reasonable amount of time; he was wrong (1 Sam 15:32-33).

3. The MODELS of poor discipline

a. Jacob (Gen 34:5; 35:22)

b. Eli (1 Sam 2:22-25,29)

c. David (2 Sam 13:21; 1 Kin 1:5-6)

4. The MODEL of good discipline- Solomon (1 Kin 2:36-46)

Solomon clearly communicated the "house rules" to Shimei and the consequences for breaking them (1 Kin 2:36-37). Shimei responded that he fully understood (1 Kin 2:38). Three years later, circumstances arose whereby Shimei inadvertently broke the "house rules" (1 Kin 2:39-40). When word came to Solomon of Shimei's disobedience (1 Kin 2:41), Solomon immediately confronted Shimei. Solomon reviewed their original conversation regarding the rules and the consequences for breaking them, and the fact Shimei expressed that he understood them all (1 Kin 2:42). He then gave Shimei the opportunity to explain why he broke the rule (1 Kin 2:43). Finally, Solomon kept his word and enforced the consequence of breaking the rule (1 Kin 2:46). The lesson to learn here is that children will learn to respect authority and laws if the parents give appropriate instruction and correction.

b) The PRINCIPLES of the training ("…in the way he should go")

1. Social training

a. To obey authority

b. To work (Lam 3:27)

c. To have good personal hygiene and physical habits (eating, sleeping)

d. To manage their time wisely (God, family, school, friends, pleasure)

e. To manage their money wisely (tithing, saving, spending)

f. To respect others' possessions

g. To share with others

h. Not to scream and fight

i. To be polite to others ("please", "thank you", "sir", "ma'am")

j. To forgive and ask for forgiveness

2. Spiritual training

Every man's motto for his family ought to be, "…as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord" (Jos 24:15). In order for this to become a reality, the word of God needs to be given a prominent and prevalent place in his heart and home (Deu 6:6-9).

a. Faithful walk with the Lord

Children will receive the spiritual training they need if the parents faithfully walk with the Lord before them. Parents should read the word of God and pray every day, they should be active witnesses for the Lord Jesus Christ, and they should faithfully attend and serve in a local Bible-believing church. They should be prepared to answer their children's questions regarding spiritual things (Exo 12:26-27).

b. Family altar

The FAMILY ALTAR is a specific time each day that the family assembles together around the word of God and prayer. The responsibility for the family altar rests upon the father, as the spiritual head of the home (Eph 6:4; Col 3:21). But if he is unable to carry out the responsibility for any reason, then the responsibility rests upon the mother. Family altar time should consist of scripture reading and prayer, but could also include testimonies and singing. It is important to be consistent in maintaining family altar. The children will learn: (1) how to pray, (2) the word of God, (3) to make time for the Lord each day. In addition to

c) The PROMISE of the training ("…when he is old, he will not depart from it")

1. Salvation to the children (Pro 23:14)

Raising children "by the Book" does not guarantee your children will be right at any given time. But if parents stay by the Book, pray with and for their children, and remain faithful themselves in their relationship with the Lord, their children will be right in the end. God had two children, Adam and Eve, and he raised them in a perfect environment, in perfect fellowship with him and they still disobeyed. But by the grace of God things worked out in the end for them (the coats of skins) and for all those who trust Jesus Christ as Savior.

2. Wisdom to the children (Pro 29:15)

3. Rest and delight to the parents (Pro 29:17)

3) To TAKE CARE of their children (2 Cor 12:14; 1 Tim 3:4,12)

This is self-explanatory. Taking care of children includes providing them with adequate food, clothing, shelter, education, medical attention, and even gifts (Matt 7:11).

B) RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE CHILDREN

1) Honor their father and mother (Exo 20:12; Deu 5:16; Mal 1:6; Matt 19:19; Eph 6:2)

2) Obey their parents (Eph 6:1; Col 3:20)

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