Appendix: What Does the Bible Really Teach?

 Who Is Michael the Archangel?

 

The spirit creature called Michael is not mentioned often in the Bible. However, when he is referred to, he is in action. In the book of Daniel, Michael is battling wicked angels; in the letter of Jude, he is disputing with Satan; and in Revelation, he is waging war with the Devil and his demons. By defending Jehovah’s rulership and fighting God’s enemies, Michael lives up to the meaning of his name—“Who Is Like God?” But who is Michael?

 

At times, individuals are known by more than one name. For example, the patriarch Jacob is also known as Israel, and the apostle Peter, as Simon. (Genesis 49:1, 2; Matthew 10:2) Likewise, the Bible indicates that Michael is another name for Jesus Christ, before and after his life on earth. Let us consider Scriptural reasons for drawing that conclusion.

 

Archangel. God’s Word refers to Michael as “the archangel.” (Jude 9) This term means “chief angel.” Notice that Michael is called the archangel. This suggests that there is only one such angel. In fact, the term “archangel” occurs in the Bible only in the singular, never in the plural. Moreover, Jesus is linked with the office of the archangel. Regarding the resurrected Lord Jesus Christ, 1 Thessalonians 4:16 states: “The Lord himself will descend from heaven with a commanding call, with an archangel’s voice.” Thus the voice of Jesus is described as being that of an archangel. This scripture therefore suggests that himself is the archangel Michael.

 

Army Leader. The Bible states that “Michael and his angels battled with the dragon . . . and its angels.” (Revelation 12:7) Thus, Michael is the Leader of an army of faithful angels. Revelation also describes Jesus as the Leader of an army of faithful angels. (Revelation 19:14-16) The apostle Paul specifically mentions “the Lord Jesus” and “his powerful angels.” (2 Thessalonians 1:7) So the Bible speaks of both Michael and “his angels” and Jesus and “his angels.” (Matthew 13:41; 16:27; 24:31; 1 Peter 3:22) Since God’s Word nowhere indicates that there are two armies of faithful angels in heaven—one headed by Michael and one headed by Jesus—it is logical to conclude that Michael is none other than Jesus Christ in his heavenly role.”

·          More information showing that the name Michael applies to God’s Son is found in Volume 2, pages 393-394, of Insight on the Scriptures, published by Jehovah’s Witnesses.

1 Timothy 2:15-18

 2 Timothy 2:15-18 – Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. But shun profane and vain babblings: for they will increase unto more ungodliness. And their word will eat as doth a canker: of whom is Hymenaeus and Philetus; Who concerning the truth have erred, saying that the resurrection is past already; and overthrow the faith of some.

Mark 16:16 – He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned.

Galatians 5:25-26 – If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit. Let us not be desirous of vain glory, provoking one another, envying one another.

John 3:5 – Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God.

Colossians 2:11-13 – In who 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: Buried with him in Baptism, wherein also ye are risen with him through faith of the operation of God, who hath raised him from the dead. And you, being dead in your sins and the uncircumcision of your flesh, hath he quickened together with him, having forgiven you all trespasses;

Acts 22:16 – And now why tarriest thou? Arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy sins, calling on the name of the Lord.

1 Peter 3:20-21 – Which sometime were disobedient, when once the longsuffering of God waited in the days of Noah, while the ark was a preparing, wherein few, that is, eight souls were saved by water. The like figure whereunto even baptism doth also now save us (not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but he answer of a good conscience toward God,) by the resurrection of Jesus Christ.

Acts 2:38 – Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.

Devotion: The Right Way to Pray

 The Bible in One Year: Proverbs 25-26/2 Corinthians 9

Today’s Reading: Matthew 6:5-15 – when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. ~Matthew 6:6

The Right Way to Pray

I admire people who record prayer request in journals tattered from daily handling, those who keep track of every prayer and praise and then faithfully update their lists. I’m inspired by those who gather with others to pray and whose kneeling wears out the carpet at their bedsides. For years, I tried to copy their styles, to emulate a perfect prayer life, and to imitate the eloquence of the so-much-more-articulate-than-me folks. I strived to unravel what I thought was a mystery, as I longed to learn the right way to pray.

Eventually, I learned that our Lord simply desires prayer that begins and ends with humility (Matthew 6:5). He invites us into an intimate exchange through which He promises to listen (v. 7). He assures us that prayer is a gift, an opportunity to honor His majesty (vv. 9-10), to display our confidence in His provision (v. 11), and to affirm our security in His forgiveness and guidance (vv.12-13).

God assures us He hears and cares about every single spoken and unspoken prayer, as well as the prayers that slip down our cheeks as silent tears. As we place our trust in God and His perfect love for us, we can be sure praying with a humble heart that’s surrendered to and dependent on Him is always the right way to pray. ~Xochitl Dixon

Lord, thank You for reminding us You hear every prayer.

Calling on Jesus as our loving Savior and Lord is the right way to pray.

Bible Verse

And Moses said unto the people, Fear not: for God is come to prove you, and that his fear may be before your faces, that ye sin not. ~Exodus 20:20

Prayer

Lord, open my mouth that I may speak to You throughout my day. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Bible Verse

That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again. ~John 3:6-7

Bible Verse

For his anger endureth but a moment; in his favour is life: weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning. ~Psalm 30:5

Prayer

Dear Lord, as I read the Scriptures, open my eyes so I can see you. in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

When You Feel Thankful

And let us not be weary in well doing: for in the season we shall reap, if we faint not. ~Galatians 6:9

Devotion: What Does It Mean to be Wise?

 Your prayers will be answered greatly!!!!!

Daily Bible Verse

And above all things have fervent charity among yourselves: for charity shall cover the multitude of sins. ~1 Peter 4:8

Daily Inspiration

Love is powerful: yet fragile, and we must handle it with care. Love protects marriages when life struggles erupt; it’s the glue that holds financial woes or the loss of loved ones. God loves us unconditionally; by the power of His love, our salvation is secure. We had instances when it was challenging to love one another. In those moments, we consider how diligently Christ loved us as He died for our sins on Calvary, and we remember our commitment to love one another as He loves us.

Daily Prayer

Dear Lord, We strive to love one another as You love us. We will stand by our commitment to You and love each other, even though it may be challenging. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Just pray and everything will be fine!!!!!!

What Does It Mean to be Wise?

By David Jacobs

What Does It Mean to be Wise?: How should we speak and listen as a believer of God’s Word? ~Proverbs 15:1-7

You may know the phrase said by former president Theodore Roosevelt: “Speak softly and carry a big stick.” Roosevelt knew the power of words, and perhaps learned it from the first verse in this proverb. Speaking softly may be considered a sign of weakness by many, but I think it is more likely a sign of wisdom. People that speak loudly or argue too much are hard for me to take seriously. If I accuse you of doing something and you fight me tooth and nail, does that not make me think that you care too much? If anything, the vigor with which you defend yourself makes you seem guiltier. A good example is from the Shakespeare play Hamlet: “The lady doth protest too much, methinks.” If you had not done the thing, it would probably not merit much of a response on your end.

As Christians, we must be careful what words we say, ho we say them, and when we say them. This proverb focuses on the tremendous power of words: they can heal, hurt, promise, and deceive. The wise speak softly (and arguably carries a big stick) while the foolish spew nonsense incessantly, trying to hear themselves speak. Which are you?

Prayer

How do you think people interpret the way you speak: wisely or foolishly? What can you change to improve?

God knows what you feel inside!!!!!!!

When You Are In Danger

For he shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways. ~Psalm 91:11

Nightly Devotion 1

 Nightly Bible Verse

Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints. ~Proverbs 116:15

Nightly Inspiration

The Lord values our lives ad suffers along with us when we come to death’s door. He calms our spirits and prepares our hearts. He does not delight in our anguish and sits patiently in our presence, providing peace and comfort as He receives our souls. We must remember that our lives are precious to our Creator. Our physical decline saddens Him even though a peaceful eternal life is in our future.

Prayer

Dear Lord, we are saddened by the physical decline of our earthly bodies but we find peace knowing that we are precious to You and You will never leave our side in Jesus’ Name, Amen.

When You Are Tired

My flesh and my heart faileth: but God is the strength of my heart, and my portion for ever. ~Psalm 73:26

Psalm 103:12

 

Psalm 103:12 – As far as the east is from the west, so far hath he removed our transgressions from us.

Isaiah 1:18 – Come now, and let us reason together, saith the LORD: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool.

Hebrews 8:12 – For I will be merciful to their unrighteousness, ad their sins and their iniquities will I remember no more.

Mark 2:7 –  Why doth this man thus speak blasphemies? Who can forgive sins but God only?

Matthew 6:14-15 – For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you; But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses,

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

Luke 17:3-4 – Take heed to yourselves: if thy brother trespass against thee, rebuke him; and if he repent, forgive him. And if he trespass against thee seven times in a day, and seven times in a day turn again to thee, saying, I repent; thou shalt forgive him.

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

Matthew 18:21-35 – Then came Peter to him, and said, Lord, how oft shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? Till seven times? Jesus saith unto him, I say not unto thee, Until seven times: but, Until seventy times seven. Therefore I the kingdom of heaven likened unto a certain king, which would take account of his servants. And when he had begun to reckon, one was rought unto him which owed him ten thousand talents. Bu forasmuch as he had not to pay, his lord commanded him to be sold, and his wife, and children, and all that he had, and payment to be made. The servant therefore fell down, and worshipped him, saying, Lord, have patience with me, and I will pay thee all. Then the lord of that servant was moved with compassion, and loosed him, and forgave him the debt. But the same servant went out, and found one of his fellowservants which owed him a hundred pence: and he laid hands on him, and took him by the throat, saying, Pay me that thou owest. And his fellowservant fell down at his feet and besought him, saying, Have patience with me, and I will pay thee all. And he would not: but went and cast him into prison, till he should pay the debt. So when his fellowservants saw what was done, they were very sorry, and came and told unto their lord all that was done. Then his lord, after that he had called hi, said unto him, O thou wicked servant, I forgave thee all that debt, because thou desiredst me: Shouldest not thou also have had compassion on thy fellowservant, even as I had pity on thee? And his lord was wroth, and delivered him to the tormentors, till he should pay all that was due unto him. So likewise shall my heavenly Father do also unto you, if ye from your hearts forgive not every one his brother their trespasses.

Acts 2:38 – Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.

Devotion: Good For You?

 The Bible in One Year: Proverbs 22-24/2 Corinthians 8

Today’s Reading: Psalm 119:65-72

You are good, and what you do is good; teach me your decrees. ~Psalm 119:68

Good For You?

Because I like dark chocolate, I once Googled “Is dark chocolate good for you?” I got a variety of results – some good, some bad. You can do the same for almost any food product. Is milk good for you? Is coffee good for you? Is rice good for you? There is a dizzying array of answers to these questions, so you must be aware that the search itself may not be good for you. It may give you a headache?

But if you’re looking for something that’s one hundred percent good for you all the time, can I recommend the Word of God? Listen to what it can do for the follower of Jesus who is seeking to build a relationship with God.

It can keep you pure (Psalm 119:9, 11).

It blesses you (Luke 11:28).

It makes you wise (Matthew 7:24).

It gives light and understanding (Psalm 119:130).

It helps you grow spiritually (1 Peter 2: 2).

Out God is good: “The LORD is good to all,” says Psalm 145:9. And in His goodness, He’s provided those who love Him with a guide that helps us see how to enhance our relationship with Him. as we try to decide how to live in a world full of choices, praise God that He’s told us in Scripture what’s good for us. Let’s say with the psalm writer: “How sweet are your words to my taste, sweeter than honey to my mouth” (Psalm 119:103). ~Dave Branon

God, thank You for leaving us Your inspired Word. Help us to read it carefully, interpret it correctly, and apply it enthusiastically in our lives.

God’s Word is the only sure foundation for life.

Bible Verse

Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it; ~Ephesians 5:25

Prayer

Lord, I ask that You guide my path today and, more specifically, my thoughts, words, and actions. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Bible Verse

Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death? ~Romans 6:3

Bible Verse

And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. ~Phillippians 4:7

Prayer

Dear Lord, It might not be easy or always feel good, but I know You see the big picture and know what’s best for me. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Devotion: Haman, the Evil Antagonist of Esther

 This week will be filled with good news!!!!!!

Daily Bible Verse

And as he passed by, he saw Levi the son of Alphaeus sitting at the receipt of custom, an said unto him, Follow me, And he arose ad followed him. ~Mark 2:14

Daily Inspiration

We can all admit we do not enjoy paying taxes! People in Jesus’ time were not big fans either. They condemned tax collectors and wanted nothing to do with them because they thought they were thieves. Jesus asked Levi, a tax collector, to follow Him and Levi immediately rose to action. Jesus calls people we consider unfit to fulfill unexpected ministries. If we look closely, we will see the Holy Spirit moving in the lives of others, and we must seek to encourage them. We must remember that God calls the unlikely for tasks that complete His plan.

Prayer

Dear Lord, Please help us see the world through Your eyes and always encourage others as they step into new ministries. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

God is the reason why I remain strong today!!!!!!!

Haman, the Evil Antagonist of Esther

By David Jacobs

Haman, the Evil Antagonist of Esther: The Jews have been persecuted and killed in most times of recorded history. Read these verses ad notice any modern similarities. ~Esther 3:1-12

You might think that anti-Semitism is a modern development. “Perhaps it came about right before World War 2. Perhaps it came about as a result of Christ’s crucifixion.” While these thought are logical, the Jews have attracted enemies that wished to destroy them since their existence.

The primary antagonist of Esther is named Haman. Haman is appointed by the king to a position above all the other princes (Esther 3:1). As the king’s “right-hand man” all the servants should show their respect ad bow to Haman when he approached. One man named Mordecai refused to bow. Haman discovered that Mordecai was a Jew, and began plotting a way “to destroy all the Jews that were throughout the whole kingdom of Ahasuerus” (Esther 3:6). Scholars debate the reason why Mordecai di not bow to Haman, which was certainty a risky maneuver, but let us not ignore what happens net: Haman approached the king with a plan for genocide. A plan to eliminate all Jews, because they did not keep the same laws as the king. Haman offered to pay the king ten thousand talents of silver, to which the king replies to Haman to keep his money and do with the Jews as he pleases. It is truly terrifying.

There are certainly differences between people: different sizes religions, cultures, language, and laws.

Prayer

Are we not equals in the sight of God? Are we not to be judged the same way by the one true Lord? Whether a person be Christian, Muslim, Buddhist, atheist, Hindu, or Jewish, as Christians we have been given a new commandment by Christ himself: love each other as he has loved us. Go from this place to serve the Lord, the people, to love the Lord, and love the people. Leave the rest of it to God.

Life is good because God is great!!!!!!!!

When You Feel Loved

The LORD thy God in the midst of thee is mighty; he will save, he will rejoice over thee with joy; he will rest in his love, he will joy over thee with singing. ~Zephaniah 3:17

Devotion: The Ultimate Satisfaction

 The Bible in One Year: Proverbs 19-21/2 Corinthians 7

Today’s Reading: Isaiah 55:1-7 – Come, all you who are thirsty, come to the waters; and you who have no money, come, buy and eat! ~Isaiah 55:1

The Ultimate Satisfaction

As we distributed snacks for children at a Bible School program, we noticed a little boy who devoured his snack. Then he also ate the leftovers of the children at his table. Even after I gave him a bag of popcorn, he still wasn’t satisfied. As leaders, we were concerned as to why this little was so hungry.

It occurred to me that we can be like that boy when it comes to our emotions. We look for way to satisfy our deepest longings, but we never find what fully satisfies us.

The prophet Isaiah invites those who are hungry and thirsty to “come, buy and eat” (Isaiah 55:1). But then he asks, “Why spend money on what I not bread, and your labor on what does not satisfy?” (v.2). Isaiah is talking about more than just physical hunger here. God can satisfy our spiritual and emotional hunger through the promise of His presence. The “everlasting covenant” in verse 3 is a reminder of a promise God made to David in 2 Samuel 7:8-16. Through David’s family line, a Savior would come to reconnect people invitation Isaiah gave, thus identifying Himself as the Savior foretold by Isaiah and other prophets.

Hungry? God invites you to come and be filled in His presence.  ~Linda Washington

Father, I long to know You more, only You can satisfy my deepest desires.

Only God will satisfy our spiritual hunger.

Bible Verse

For every house is builded by some man, but he that built ALL things is God. ~Hebrews 3:4

Prayer

Heavenly Father, help me long for You and my relationship with You before ALL other things. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Bible Verse

Then said Paul, John verily baptized with the baptism of repentance, saying unto the people, that they should believe on him which should come after him, that is, on Christ Jesus. ~Acts 19:4

Bible Verse

Hatred stirreth up strifes: but love covereth ALL sins. ~Proverbs 10:12

Prayer

Father, You teach us in the most amazing ways, through the most unexpected circumstances. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Psalm 14:1-3

 

Psalm 14:1-3 – The fool hath said in his heart, There is no God. They are corrupt, they have done abominable works, there is none that doeth good. The LORD looked down from heaven upon the children of men, to see if there were any that did understand, and seek God. They are all gone aside, they are all together become filthy; there is none that doeth good, no, not one.

Psalm 58:3 —The wicked are estranged from the womb; they go astray as soon as they be born, speaking lies.

Romans 5:12 – Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned.

Romans 3:23 – For ALL have sinned, and come short of the Glory of God.

Devotion: No Means No!

 God will keep you from all danger!!!!!

Daily Bible Verse

Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath: ~Ephesians 4:26

Daily Inspiration

Anger is a dangerous emotion when allowed control. When observing our day, numerous small details cause frustration. We are displeased with our morning routine or annoyed by traffic. We are frustrated when we run late or have to wait in line for coffee. Although these seem like minimal irritations, they build up to become dangerous to our mental health. Before we know it, we are mad all the time; every moment of the day. Paul tells us we should work quickly to resolve our anger. Anger prompts us to act out of character and leads to sin. We will lay the burden of anger down and lean on the Holy Spirit for guidance.

Daily Prayer

Dear Father, we grow irritated with minor inconveniences throughout the day; we lay the burden of anger at Your feet and seek guidance to rid ourselves of this darkness. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

All we NEED is JESUS!!!!!!!

No Means No!

By David Jacobs

No Means No!: Sexual abuse is found throughout the Bible and our current society? What can we do to reduce this scourge? ~2 Samuel 13:1-5, 11-16

The world is starting to shed a bit more light on the dark plague that is sexual abuse and rape. Abusive behavior of men that has been tolerated for most of human existence is finally beginning to be considered inappropriate and immoral.

Unfortunately it is a problem that has existed for as long as there has been recorded history, and it seems it is only now getting the attention it deserves. Women are often blamed for being the victims of rape. “She shouldn’t have been there”, “She should have known better”, “She knew what kind of man he is”, and “Boys will be boys”, are all excuses that I have heard in response to the sexual abuse scandals in Hollywood. The problem will persist until we change the attitudes of people thinking these things.

These verses tell a disgusting story, once again involving a son of David. Another David’s sons, Absalom, will soon conspire to overthrow and kill his father, but in these verses, Absalom’s sister Tamar is raped by her half-brother, Amnon. There is more than one guilty party here, for Amnon’s friend, Jonadab, initially hatches a plan. Amnon forces his half-sister, a virgin, to sleep with hi, and is then disgusted by her, ignoring her pleas to send him away, knowing the shame that it will bring the two of them. This is only the beginning of this story, because later in this chapter, Absalom plots revenge and eventually kills his brother, Amnon.

I once again think about David’s role in this story: considering the story of Bathsheba, he did not set the best male role model for his sons. This story sounds like it could be in a tabloid newspaper in modern times, so the problems have remained the same for literally thousands of years. the way that the wrongdoers behave in these verses, namely, the men, is not so different from the shaming culture that persists today.

Prayer

We can make a difference. We can learn from the sinful ways of those before us and create a new and safer society. It starts with us acknowledging that the way things were and the way things currently are is wrong. Remember the teachings of Christ; remember the horror stories in these verses and in modern society. Then and only then, will people like Amnon listen to Tamar when she implores him not to do this wicked thing, No means no!

God is my Provider, TODAY, TOMORROW, and ALWAYS!!!!!!

When You Feel Attacked

My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; ~James 1:2

Devotion: "Two Wrongs Don't Make a Right"

 God is going to accelerate your dreams!!!!!

Daily Bible Verse

For I fear, lest, when I come, I shall not find you such as I would, and that I shall be found unto you such as ye would not: lest there be debates, envyings, wraths, strifes, backbitings, whisperings, swelling, tumults: ~2 Corinthians 12:20

Daily Inspiration

The Devil enjoys it when we whisper behind each other’s backs. Gossip produces anger, sorrow, and violence. We hurt one another when we say hateful things or share personal secrets. We stir up anger which leads to violence when we share false information. Instead, we will focus on our walk to righteousness and share the Good News concerning salvation and our loving Heavenly Father. We want to share hope with our broken world and stop evil in its tracks.

Daily Prayer

Dear Father, we will stop whispering behind each other’s backs and start sharing Your Word. We want to assist You by stopping evil instead of spreading it around with tounges of fire. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Better days are coming!!!!!

Two Wrongs Don’t Make a Right

By David Jacobs

Two Wrongs Don’t Make a Right: Envy adultery, murder – what lessons can be learned from Ding David’s sins? ~2 Samuel 11:2-5; 15-17

It is quite common for men and women in positions of power to commit adultery. The sanctity of marriage does not seem as important today as it once did, and many view divorce as almost inevitability. The collapse of the family structure and lack of good relationships examples can help explain the modern issues with marriage and divorce. How can we make sense of David’s actions in these verses?

The Ten Commandments specifically prohibit coveting, committing adultery, and committing murder (Exodus 20). The King of Israel manages to commit all of these sins in these verses. Seeing the beautiful Bathsheba, King David abuses his power and sleeps with her. She gets pregnant, and David tries to get her husband, Uriah, to sleep with so that that he will not think about the pregnancy, but Uriah does not do it. In an attempt to correct the two sins with an even bigger sin, David orders Uriah, a loyal and competent soldier, to be placed in the area where the fighting will be heaviest in the next battle. Uriah dies and David takes Bathsheba, now widowed, to be his wife.

“Two wrongs don’t make a right.” David has more than two wrongs, but the more wrongs you add, the less right the result. In an attempt to correct his mistakes, David sins, making his wife less happy, himself less happy, and giving Uriah no option at all. We can learn from David’s mistakes, realizing that all of the sins are prohibited in the Ten Commandments these sins will hurt us and hurt others.

Prayer

Abba Father, grant me the wisdom to discern what is good and what is not. Lead me away from temptation, for I know that like Adam and Eve, doing what You have prohibited will hurt me and hurt You. I pray that You grant a sense of peace to relationships that may need mending, hoping that more love can be shared instead of sin. Amen.

When You Are Hated Because of Your Faith

Remember the word that I said unto you. The servant is not greater than his lord. If they have persecuted me, they will also persecute you; if they have kept my saying, they will keep Your’s also. ~John 15:20

Acts 1:8

 But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you. And you will be my witnesses, telling people about me everywhere—in Jerusalem, throughout Judea, in Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.

Acts 1:8

Be My Witness

After Christ rose again and walked the earth, He gave a command to His followers, and then ascended into heaven. He told them that from now on they would have the Holy Spirit to lead, guide, and advocate for them, and because they would have the Holy Spirit, they were to be His witnesses. He first says Jerusalem because that was their home. We are to be His witnesses in our hometown and community. He then said Judea, as this was where Jerusalem was located. We are to not only be His witnesses in our communities, but also in our states and nation. He says Samaria, which was a surrounding nation. We are to minister to people in surrounding communities and nations. He then ends by saying to minister to the ends of the earth. Our mission should not stop in our cities, states, and nations, but should reach the ends of the earth.

We are His hands and feet. It is our job to carry the good news to everyone we know and those who we don’t know. When you have a mission mind, you are able to make decisions based on who needs to hear the gospel. Everything centers around that very thing. How can you be a part of what God is doing around the world?

A Prayer to Remember

Dear Lord,
You are doing a work in my community, nation, and around the world. Give me a long for your people and your work. May I go where you go and do what you do. Amen

Hebrews 11:7

 It was by faith that Noah built a large boat to save his family from the flood. He obeyed God, who warned him about things that had never happened before. By his faith Noah condemned the rest of the world, and he received the righteousness that comes by faith.

Hebrews 11:7

By His Faith

Noah is such a beautiful picture of faith. He was not worried about what other people around him thought, only the Lord. By faith he built the boat while others laughed and enjoyed life around him. Yet, he obeyed God because he had a fear of the Lord and knew what He was capable of. God had warned Him about the things He had planned because of His wrath and anger against sin. By faith Noah condemned the sinful actions of the world. He set himself apart for the Lord, and for that, God called him righteous.

The thing about Noah was that he would sin again. Even after doing miraculous things, he would take a situation into his own hands and sin against God. However, he is still mentioned as a man of faith in this chapter. One sin did not define a lifetime of loyalty to God. One sin does not define you and me. Spend some time praying today and asking God to help you stand for Him in a world of corruption.

A Prayer to Remember

Dear Lord,
Thank you for men like Noah who demonstrated his faith by trusting you and condemning the world. May I be like Noah everyday. Amen.

Hebrews 11:8-9

 It was by faith that Abraham obeyed when God called him to leave home and go to another land that God would give him as his inheritance. He went without knowing where he was going. And even when he reached the land God promised him, he lived there by faith-for he was like a foreigner, living in tents. And so did Isaac and Jacob, who inherited the same promise.

Hebrews 11:8-9

Journey to Another Land

Abraham is another great man of faith. These verses retell the stories we read of his faith in the book of Genesis. By faith he obeyed God and left what he knew in his homeland to journey to the unknown, knowing that God was faithful and would deliver on his promises. By faith he followed God not knowing where he was going and what God was doing. He trusted God. He even lived by faith in the new land, living as a foreigner. All the while trusting God, hoping in what was to come, and believing that God would deliver. It was because of his faith that Isaac and Jacob did the same.

Is God calling you outside of your comfort zone to a new land or a new adventure? Are you willing to say, “Yes, Lord,” and follow Him into the unknown? Spend some time in prayer for your future today!

A Prayer to Remember

Dear Lord,
You are always faithful. You are a good God who delivers on His promises just as you did for Abraham. Thank you for who you are. Amen.

Matthew 11:28-30

 Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light.”

Matthew 11:28-30

Come to Him

Who is the first person you talk to when you have a problem? Do you ever feel disappointed with their response? Maybe they agreed with you when you needed wisdom instead. Maybe they downplayed your situation. Maybe they didn’t respond at all. No matter what the situation, when we go to anyone besides the Lord, we will always be disappointed. Jesus says here to come to Him with your heavy burdens. He is the only one who can carry them! He will not only give you advice, but He will teach you and give you rest because of His humility and gentleness. No one else can treat you that way and give you what you need.

He goes on to say that His yoke is easy to bear; His burden is light. Many times the burdens we bear we bear because we’ve placed them on our own shoulders or we’ve allowed others to put heavy burdens on our shoulders. His yoke is easy because when we come to Him and place our burdens at His feet, He bears them all for us. Come to Him if you’re weary, if you’re overwhelmed, or if you want rest. He is the great reward.

A Prayer to Remember

Dear Lord,
Your burden is light. You carry my burdens when I come to you and lay them at your feet. Please help me remember to come to you before anyone else. Amen

Romans 12:2

 Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.

Romans 12:2

Be Transformed

When you chose Christ’s salvation, you chose to allow God to transform you into a new person. This begins with a thought. A thought produces a word, which produces an action, which can produce a lifestyle. Before you knew Christ, the way you thought became your life and what you knew. Sinful thoughts gave way to a sinful lifestyle. However, when you came to know Christ, you became a new creation and that includes your thoughts. This transformation begins at salvation, but continues throughout your life. The closer you become to Christ, the more you he transforms you and you become like Him.

This scripture tells us not to conform to the world. Even after salvation, the world will try to entice you. If you continuously allow God to transform your mind and heart, you will find it easier to turn away the pleasures and desires of the Lord.

A Prayer to Remember

Dear Lord,
You are the God of my salvation. You have transformed me into a new creation. Help me keep my eyes focused on you everyday. Help turn my eyes away from the world and back to you, my Creator. Amen

John 10:10

 The thief’s purpose is to steal and kill and destroy. My purpose is to give them a rich and satisfying life.

John 10:10

Abundant Life

God’s purpose and the devil’s purpose has always been in complete opposition to each other. This verse tells us that the devil comes to steal, kill, and destroy. Everything he does illustrates this purpose. 1 Peter 5:8 also tells us that he prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. This is his whole purpose! Every time we give in to our fleshly desires, we are giving in to his great purpose! God’s purpose contrasts the enemy’s purpose. God has come so that we might have an abundant life in Him, a rich and satisfying life! Everything He does is to fulfill this purpose. Every blessing, every joy, every single thing He does is to draw us to Him.

Do you see the difference between these two purposes? One is to completely destroy us and the other is to build us up and give us life. Yet, time and time again, we choose the pleasures of this life and momentary sins instead of choosing the abundant beautiful life God gives. Which do you choose?

A Prayer to Remember

Dear Lord,
You have given me a great purpose. Help me choose that purpose every single day. You have given me an abundant life. May I choose life even when I feel defeated. Amen

2 Peter 1:11

 Then God will give you a grand entrance into the eternal Kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

2 Peter 1:11

A Grand Entrance

Our eternity is completely based on our decisions here on earth. If we decide to reject God, then we are rejecting an eternity with Him. If we accept His salvation and live in His love, we will experience all He has to offer in this world and in this life and will spend eternity with Him.

Can you even begin to imagine what this will be like? A grand entrance! I had the blessing of attending the most beautiful wedding lately. There were roses everywhere and the grandest decor! As spectacular as it was, I cannot even begin to imagine what heaven will be like!

A Prayer to Remember

Dear Lord,
I thank you for my salvation and the security of eternity. May I spend all of my days, both on this earth and in heaven, with you! Amen.

2 Peter 12-13

 Therefore, I will always remind you about these things-even though you already know them and are standing firm in the truth you have been taught. And it is only right that I should keep on reminding you as long as I live.

2 Peter 12-13

A Gentle Reminder

Peter encourages believers here by telling them that he will always remind them of the things they already know and have been taught. He even says he will remind them as long as he lives. What dedication to the Christian life and to Christ Himself! Peter knew what happened when he denied Christ, so he would never deny Him again. Instead, he would spend his life reminding believers of the hope and love they could find in Christ Jesus.

What about you? When you read the Word of God, you can read those reminders from believers who walked this earth. Then, you can go out and remind and encourage others in the faith. Isn’t that what this Christian life is all about?

A Prayer to Remember

Dear Lord,
Thank you for the words of your followers to remind me of what being a believer really means. May I continue to remind others around me in the same way. Amen.

Psalm 37:5

 Commit everything you do to the Lord. Trust him, and he will help you.

Psalm 37: 5

Commit Your Way

The best way to experience all God has to offer is to commit everything you do to Him. When you commit everything you do to Him, you will see the many ways He works in your life on a daily basis. For example, when you commit your day to Him when you rise, you will see Him work and find blessings in even the most difficult situations. When you commit your life to Him, you will see those blessings more often and see what He is doing in your life and how He makes it better. This is the first step to trusting Him.

Make the first step by trusting in Him and commuting yourself to Him. This will never be a one time thing, but more of a daily thing. Since you are but a man, your flesh will fail you, so commune with God everyday so you can see how He is working and what He is doing in your life.

A Prayer to Remember

Dear Lord,
Thank you for working in my life. I commit myself to you today and everyday after. Help me see the many ways you’re moving in my life. Amen

2 Corinthians 5:6-7

 So we are always confident, even though we know that as long as we live in these bodies we are not at home with the Lord. For we live by believing and not by seeing.

2 Corinthians 5:6-7

Live by Faith

Faith is all about believing and not seeing. Take the wind, for instance. You can feel the wind, so you know it’s there. You can see the effects of the wind blowing in the trees, but you can’t actually see it. Yet you still know that it exists. God is the same way. We cannot see Him with our eyes, but we can feel His Holy Spirit and His presence in our lives. We can see His effects when we see a life changed or a miracle take place. We know that He is there by the way He works and moves among His people. THis is not our home. We are simply residing here while He prepares a greater place for us. We have faith that He is preparing that place and will deliver on His promises.

That is faith. Faith is believing when the whole world is against you because they refuse to believe in what they cannot see. Faith is holding onto the very thing that you believe in because you have seen the effects and know that He is real. What is faith to you? Thank Him for His faithfulness today.

A Prayer to Remember

Dear Lord,
You are so faithful to man. You breathed life into us and continue to work in our lives even when we doubt. Increase our faith every single day. Amen

Matthew 3:16-17

 Matthew 3:16-17 – And Jesus, when he was baptized, went up straightway out of the water: and, lo, the heavens were opened unto him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and lighting upon him: And lo a voice from heaven, saying, This is My Beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.

John 10:30 – I and My Father are one.

John 17:21 – 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.

Acts 5:3-4 – But Peter said, Ananias, why hath Satan filled thine heart to lie to the Holy Ghost, and to keep back part of the price of the land? Whiles it remained, was it not tine own? And after it was sold, was it not in thine own power? Why hast thou conceived this thing in thine heart? Thou hast not lied unto men, but unto God.

Deuteronomy 10:14 – Behold, the heaven and the heaven of heavens is the LORD’s thy God, the earth also, with all that therein is.

Deuteronomy 26:15 – Look down from thy holy habitation, from heaven, and bless thy people Israel, and the land which thou hast given us, as thou swarest unto out fathers, a land that floweth with milk and honey.

1 King 8:27, 30 – But will God indeed dwell on the earth? Behold, the heaven and heaven of heavens cannot contain thee; how much less this house that I have builded? And hearken thou to the supplication of thy servant, and of thy people Israel, when they shall pray toward this place: and hear thou in heaven thy dwelling place; and when thou hearest, forgive.

John 3:13 – And no man hath ascended up to heaven, but he that came down from heaven, even the Son of man which is in heaven.

John 14:1-3 – Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am there ye may be also.

Matthew 25:31-46 – When the Son of man shall come in his glory, and all the holy angels with him, then shall he sit upon the throne of his glory: And before him shall be gathered all nations: and he shall separate them one from another, as a shepherd divideth his sheep from the goats; And he shall set the sheep on his right hand, but the goats on the left. Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world: For I was an hungred, and ye gave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me in: Naked, and ye clothed me: I was sick, and ye visited me: I was in prison, and ye came unto me. Then shall the righteous answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee a hungred, and fed thee? Or thirsty, and gave thee drink? When saw thee a stranger, and took thee in? Or naked, and clothed thee? Or when saw we thee sick, or in prison, and came unto thee? And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of my brethren, ye have done it unto me.  Then shall he say also unto them on the left hand, Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels: For I was hungred, and ye gave me no meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me no drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me not in: naked, and ye clothed me not: sick, and in prison, and ye visited me not. Then shall they also answer him, saying, Lord, when aw we thee an hungred, or at thirst, or a stranger, or naked, or sick, or in prison, and did not minister unto thee? Then shall he answer them, saying, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye did it not to one of the lease of these, you did it not to me. And these shall go away into everlasting punishment: but the righteous into life eternal.

1 Thessalonians 4:13-18 – But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope. For I we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him. For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent them which are asleep. For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ hall rise first: Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord. Wherefore comfort one another with these words.

Luke 16:19-31 – There was a certain rich man, which was clothed in purple and fine linen, and fared sumptuously every day: And there was a certain beggar named Lazarus, which was laid at his gate, full of sores, And desiring to be fed with the crumbs which fell from the rich man’s table: moreover the dogs came and licked his sores. And it came to pass, that the beggar died, and was carried by the angels into Abraham’s bosom: the rich man also died, and was buried: And in hell he lift up his eyes, being in torments, and seeth Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom. And he cried and said, Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus, that he may dip the tip of his finger in water, and cool my tongue; for I am tormented in this flame. But Abraham said, Son, remember that thou in thy lifetime receivedst thy good things, and likewise Lazarus evil things: but now he I comforted, and thou art tormented. And beside all this, between us and you there is a great gulf fixed: o that they which would pass from hence to you cannot; neither can they pass to us, that would come from thence. Then he said, I pray thee therefore, father, thou wouldest send him to my father’s house: For I have five brethren; that he may testify unto them, lest they also come into this place of torment. And he said, Nay, father Abraham: but if one went unto them from the dead, they will repent. And he said unto him, If they hear not Moses and the prophets, neither will they be persuaded, though one rose from the dead.

Luke 23:43 --  And Jesus said unto him, Verily I say unto thee, To day shalt thou be with me in paradise.

Revelation 20:13 – And the sea gave up the dead which were in it; and death and hell delivered up the dead which were in them: and they were judged every man according to their works.

1 Timothy 2:5 – For if there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus:

Matthew 6:9 – After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.

John 14:13-14 – And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If ye shall ask any thing in my name, I will do it.

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

John 16:15 – All things that the Father hath are mine: therefore said I, that he shall take of mine, and shall shew it unto you.

John 2:2-3 – And both Jesus was called, and his disciples, to the marriage. And when they wanted wine, the mother of Jesus saith unto him, They have no wine.

John 2:4 – Jesus saith unto her, Woman, what have I to do with thee? Mine hour is not yet come.

Matthew 8:5-13 – And when Jesus was entered into Capernaum, there came unto him a centurion, beseeching him, And saying, Lord, my servant lieth at home sick of the palsy, grievously tormented. And Jesus saith unto him, I will come and heal him. The centurion answered and said, I am not worthy that thou shouldest come under my roof: but speak the word only, and my servant shall be healed. For I am a man under authority, having soldiers under me: and I say to this man, Go, and he goeth; and to another, Come, and he cometh; and to my servant, Do this, and he doeth it. When Jesus heard it, he marvelled, and said to them that followed, Verily I say unto you, I have not found so great faith, no not in Israel. And I say unto you, That many shall come from the east and west, and shall sit down with Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob, in the kingdom of heaven. But the children of kingdom shall be cast into outer darkness; there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth. And Jesus said unto the centurion, Go thy way; and as thou hast believed, so be it done unto thee. And his servant was healed in the selfsame hour.

Deuteronomy 18:10-13 – There shall not be found among you any one that maketh his son or his daughter to pass through the fire, or that useth divination, or an observer of times, or an enchanter, or a witch, Or a charmer, or a consulter with familiar spirits, or a wizard, or a necromancer, For all that do these things are an abomination unto the LORD: and because of these abominations the LORD thy God doth drive them out from before thee. Thou shalt be perfect with the LORD thy God.

1 Chronicles 10:13-14 – So Saul died for his transgression which he committed against the LORD, even against the word of the LORD, which he kept not, and also for asking counsel of one that had a familiar spirit, to enquire of it; And enquired not of the LORD; therefore he slew him, ad turned the kingdom unto David the son of Jesse.

Isaiah 8:19 – And when they shall say unto you, Seek unto them that have familiar spirits, and unto wizards that peep, and that mutter: should not a people seek unto their God? For the living to the dead?

Luke 1:47 – And my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Savior.

Hebrews 7:25 – Wherefore he is able to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by him, seeing he ever liveth to make intercession for them.

Romans 3:23 – For ALL have sinned, and come short of the glory of God:

2 Corinthian 5:18-19 – And ALL things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation; To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation.

Colossians 1:20 – And, having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile ALL things unto himself; by him, I say, whether they be things in earth, or things in heaven.

John 19:27 – Then saith he to the disciple, Behold thy mother! And from that hour that disciple took her unto his own home.

1 Thessalonians 5:25 – Brethren, pray for us.

Hebrews 13:18 – Pray for us: for we trust we have a good conscience, in ALL things willing to live honestly.

James 5:16 – Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.