The Reason for my Hope by Billy Graham

Billy Graham

ISBN: 9780529105448

Publisher's Synopsis:

The saving message of the Gospel is the heartbeat of this preacher and evangelist. Millions around the world have heard Billy Graham proclaim this unchanging truth. He has never forgotten the transformation of his own life, when he first said yes to God’s gift of salvation, and he has witnessed multitudes turn their hearts to the God of Hope.

 "Hope is a Gift.

Have you ever taken hold of such a prize that leads you out of uncertainty into profound assurance?

When it arrives, despair departs.

An old Scottish proverb says,

'Were it not for hope, the heart would break.'

What is your heart's condition?"

MrsK's Review:

Did you watch this special? Did you discover a new truth? When the opportunity for me to review the book, well I knew that our Lord was asking me to journey deeper into my relationship with Him.

This man's voice resonates deep within. Just his name brings back all of those moments in front of our television. A gathering "snuggled together" listening to what inspiration might feed us for the next few moments... the next few months... the next season. In the introduction, Billy Graham, reminds us that you can "glimpse the glow of hope" simply by lighting a match and burning a candle:

"You will discover that the whisper of its flame brings life to a room,

making the candle useful.

Is your flame alive and making a difference in the world?"

Have I been "nourishing" my soul enough that a flame burns within? Can others see the "glow of hope" in my actions or with my words? If "Hope pierces the darkness," if  "Hope brings comfort," then what am I showing all of you? 

Rescued for Something: What would your story be? With a series of short testimonies about survival from circumstances, physical defeats, or mental anguish there is a "Hope" that comes from being saved.

"For with the Lord there is mercy,

And with Him is abundant redemption."

Psalm 130:7

The Great Redemption: Have you redeemed your free gift? Redemption involves a giver and a receiver. How often have you turned away from someone offering you a gift? These testimonies "brings into focus" moments in which a "redeemed" life-choice may have included a "price to pay" that wasn't thought through. And if you have been redeemed with another chance, do you tell about it?

 "I will cleanse them from all their iniquity by which they have sinned against me,

and I will pardon all their iniquities."

Jeremiah 33:8

Sin is In: Self-interest lives that keeps us from obeying God and His word. It impacts our thinking, our actions, and our beliefs. When we walk through life unprotected and without God's word we fall short of divine discernment. As early as 1948 and straight into 1967 our culture was reinvented. History was rewritten. What once was a nation raised up on God's commandments, became a nation of self-interested deceptions. There was a time when sin was considered a terror to be shunned, today there exists a deception that excusing ownership of sinfulness leads to a tolerant mindset of acceptance. This chapter is one of the hardest to explore... it will challenge today's myths. It will open the depths of your soul to the truth of God's word. It will lead you beyond your protected surface.

"Good deeds will not bring comfort to the soul

because the bad and hurtful things we do to others

are ultimately done against the One who created our souls.

Your soul belongs to God.

He is the only One who can redeem your soul."

The Price of Victory: "What was the greatest and most costly battle ever to take place? Who was the victor, and what was the reward?" Have you ever rejected the truth of God's word? Have you turned away from the message of the cross? Do you reject that men and women are sinners who need to live with a repentant heart? When Jesus Christ was nailed to the cross, he "triumphed over all the forces of evil and death and Hell..." he gave us mercy, grace, and the eternal promise of forgiveness. Through grace, hope was freely given:

"For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world,

but that the world through Him might be saved."

John 3:17  

Where is Jesus?: How would you respond to this question, "What is the ultimate Victory of the cross?" Every time we write the date, we proclaim the victory of the cross! Ponder what that victory meant from the third day, through out the ages, and into this century. Deception is blinding the message of the cross. 

"In His great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope

through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead...

who through faith are shielded by God's power until the coming of the salvation

that is ready to be revealed."

1 Peter 1:3-5

Defining Christianity in a Designer World: Are you living in a world of your own making? Does your life mirror society's whims and choices? Where is your quest for truth and acceptance leading you? Ultimately, it will be the choices that you have made that will provide a life "tailor-made," is it aligned with God's word or has it become a "relaxed-fitting" life that "fits your needs?"

"The Gospel of Jesus Christ has been watered down to a myth,

causing young and old to doubt the authority of Scripture."

 If the nation is blending a pick-and-choose, gender-resistant society, then what will put on the brakes for its immoral binge? "What we are seeing is human nature expressing itself without God." Without the Holy Spirit's discernment we are blinded by a designer that is seeking to devour. Believing in Jesus Christ, the truth of his birth... death... and resurrection, and placing priority on Him and God's word, we are assured of salvation from our selves:

"Without Me you can do nothing."

John 15:5

"You can continue searching for some religion that fits your particular lifestyle,
 but your search will never come to a satisfying end.
 Or you can commit your life completely to the Lord,
 who brings true and lasting fulfillment to the human soul who sincerely seeks Him in truth."

We are reminded that being Christian isn't about living for yourself. We must turn away from our "old" lives and begin a new way of living. It's all about a change. Listening and seeking obedience to God's will, His word, and the Holy Spirit's prompting. Humbling yourself before the Lord (daily), stopping to praise and give thanksgiving for all of your blessings, striving to "see" His hand at work in your life and the lives of others, and "asking" Him to show you what you can do for Him.

"He is not going to come in and ignore the chains that bind you to sin.

He is not going to come in and close His eyes to the immorality that governs your relationships.

He is not going to come in and overlook your indifference to His commands.

He is going... to come in...

and overlook your indifference to His commands.

He is... going to mold you and make you new

by changing your very nature."

 With each day we begin are given a new beginning. We can trust that He is with us in every moment. We have been given His blessed assurance that He will provide our needs... and more. Being willing to be "redesigned" is freedom. We no longer have to be the one in control, always planning and dealing with frustrations. Is Christ within you? If so, then are you seeking His will in every decision, every purchase, every conversation, or every thought? Freedom is granted as we begin "just being" His. There is nothing we can do to earn or loose His love. He is love. At the cross our Lord Jesus completed our destination.

"Those who belong to Christ Jesus

have crucified the flesh

with its passions and desires."

Galatians 5:24

No Hope of Happy Hour in Hell: "What do you think about Hell?" Do you believe that all sin is offensive in the eyes of God? Do you believe that God is Holy? Do you believe that during His crucifixion, Jesus cried out to Abba because He had taken on our sin and was separated from Abba:

About three in the afternoon Jesus cried out in a loud voice,

 "Eli, Eli, lema sabachthani?"

 (which means "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?").

Matthew 27:46

He Is Coming Back: Is hope rare? What would you want changed? "Still people clamor for hope and change, blinded to evil disguised as good."  If we are looking for Jesus' return, we know that there is hope. The word of God promises that He will return in great glory. All we need to do is stand. Feed on His word daily. Put on the armor of God, and trust that He is returning.

Living Life with Hope: Are you convinced that you truly need Jesus in your life? That you are willing to give up your self-sufficiency and trust in His will for your life? Do you believe in the message of the cross? Are you openly following Jesus? Is God's word your daily nourishment? Is the Holy Trinity your strength? Ask Jesus... He will see you through to completion! 

 "His compassions fail not.

They are new every morning;

great is His faithfulness."

Lamentations 3:22-23

Beautifully written, this book will help your spirit soar, 
MrsK 

"The message of this book is my hope for you.
And my prayer is that you will be filled with the dividends of joy and peace
in believing that you can be rescued from all that hinders,
bringing you into a 'Living Hope of Salvation."
Billy Graham
May 2013 

 Meet the Author:

  Billy Graham

“My one purpose in life is to help people find a personal relationship with God, which, I believe, comes through knowing Christ." 

Billy Graham, world-renowned author, preacher, and evangelist, has delivered the Gospel message to more people face-to-face than anyone in history and has ministered on every continent of the world in more than 185 countries. Millions have read his inspirational classics, including Angels, Peace with God, The Holy Spirit, Hope for the Troubled Heart, How to Be Born Again, The Journey, Nearing Home, and The Reason For My Hope.

 My Hope Videos

 

 

Psalm 119:47 Inward Joy

Good morning Abba, Good morning Jesus, Good morning Holy Spirit,

"I will delight myself in thy commandments which I have loved."

Psalm 119:47

For the last few weeks, whether I was on our patio... watering our plants... putting together a puzzle... or cutting up old "cherished" dresses for quilting... I found myself in an unusual frame of mind. There were many moments in which my soul seemed so burdened, actually heavy with grief. There were moments when I was "talking" to our Lord that I felt an inner peace, yet my mind was troubled. Then there were times when I was so "tired," I felt as if my strength had just been syphoned out of my body and I would crumble to the ground.

"Then shall my heart have inward joy,

And keep my face from shame,

When all thy statutes I obey,

And honour all thy name."

Abraham Lincoln's Daily Devotional

What was my spirit trying to awaken in me? Oh what, my Lord, had grieved my soul and the Holy Spirit? Lord show me what I must do? As the weeks passed, I had opportunities to speak with many who are hurting for various reasons. Our nation has made grievous decisions for all Americans. They choose to believe it is progressive thinking. They speak of hate crimes... yet, these rulings are in a "false-relationship" with a deceiving "hateful" spirit. Lines are being drawn, voices are raised in judgements, an human spirits are either being broken... entrapped... held hostage... or disintegrating.

    

"Therefore judge nothing before the time,

until the Lord comes,

who will both bring to light the hidden things of darkness

and reveal the counsels of the hearts."

1 Corinthians 4:5

    What do we know about each other? What are our individual "secret" sinfulness? Do we know anyone's battle against sin? Do we know the strength of the evil that has caused a loss of hope and opened the door to the sinful nature our world appears to have accepted?  Is God your creator (El Shadi)... your father (ABBA) in Heaven... or is He a god of your understanding (willingly choosing to pick and choose what parts of the Bible you want or don't want to live by? Jesus Christ did not come to change the "old testament"... He came to add His blood atonement for our sinful self-serving choices, decisions, actions, and speech.

If we are Christian... we know that Jesus Christ is our Lord and Savior. We believe in the Word of God. We have freely chosen a freedom like nothing this world could offer. We also have chosen the truth about our "sinful nature." Therefore we accept His commandments as our spiritual "thermometer."  Our Lord, and He alone, will be our eternal judge. We are to keep watch. We are to have a repentant heart, and as we are blessed with His merciful forgiveness... we are to be forgiving. Nothing we say or do is directly of our own intellect... we are designed by El Shadi our creator... we are led by the Holy Spirit... we are saved by His Grace!

"If you judge people, you have no time to love them."

Mother Teresa  

Ecclesiastes 7:20 In clarity and truth

Good Morning Abba, Good morning Jesus, Good Morning Holy Spirit,

 For there is not a just man on earth, that does good, and sins not.

 Ecclesiastes 7:20

 Today's journey is about His revealing the truth in my sinful nature. In one of my daily devotionals, it was talking about the light shining through the window and revealing the dust particles in the stream of light. Wow, how true is this. That once we begin our journey within God's precious and holy word... we begin having moments of clarity about our sinfulness. 

Sometimes those recollections of words spoken are "washed and made new" once I ask forgiveness. Sometimes I must journey to an act of reconciliation with the person I have wronged. With other sinful choices, I have fallen on my knees and asked our Lord to forgive me and make me clean. Renewed, refreshed, and strengthened with resolve to "go and sin no more."

It is in those moments when Christ's light exposes our sin He is "pruning away" the dead branches. He is weeding out that which has caused us to stumble or fall short of His blessings. He is as a potter, molding us into His vessel. Although the clarity and truth of our sinfulness can cause us to "gasp" in despair, He is loving us through to completion for His glory. He is tending to our every need. He is providing His mercy and grace in the form of repentance and reconciliation.

For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.

Romans 3:23  

With humility and childlike trust, we can turn our sinful nature over and into His loving hands. We die to our selfish pride... we acknowledge that we can do nothing without Him. We joyously accept His will... and we strive through prayer, reading His word, and meditation to walk with Him in all things and ways.

"Woe to me!" I cried.

 "I am ruined!

 For I am a man of unclean lips,

 and I live among a people of unclean lips,

 and my eyes have seen the King, the LORD Almighty.

Isaiah 6:5
 

Trusting in His goodness, walking by faith, our Lord Jesus promised:

"I have come into the world as light,

 so that whoever believes in me may not remain in darkness."

John 12:46

"It is good for us that we feel unworthy as we draw closer to God, for it humbles us to rely on Him alone."

Lawrence Darmani

Our Daily Bread

John 10:27 Hearing His Call

Good morning Abba, Good morning Jesus, Good morning Holy Spirit,

My sheep hear My voice,

and I know them,

and they follow Me.

John 10:27

Do you know the sounds and the signals of our Shepherd's presence? It is such a comfort knowing the sound, the prompting, and the sweet blessings of our Lord. Whenever the world begins speaking louder than the word of God, I now know that I can always choose to retreat into a place of His presence. Distractions and misleading voices cause such doubt, grief, and chaos. Therefore, I try to stay connected to the Holy Spirit for the discerning signals that will prompt me to stop... to turn my thoughts over to our Lord Jesus... and to claim His protection over my mind, my heart, my spirit, and my soul.

It is in trusting Jesus as our Shepherd that I can shut off anything that is not of Him. I no longer accept any thing that the word of God does not proclaim as good and of His blessing. I choose not to "play tag" with those images or sayings that are so often directed at me. Don't get me wrong, this walk of faith takes energy. It takes a diligent watch over what or who I am listening to. Within my trusting relationship with Abba our faithful Father, with His son, Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior, and with the constant guidance of the Holy Spirit... I can stand against any weapon formed against me even when it looks as if I am being attacked, defeated, or oppressed.

In most things that are alarming, I can find His encouragement. In all things that are meant for evil, I can locate a passage to remind the tormentor to "back-off" from me and mine. In those things that cause me frustration, I can humbly cry out to Jesus for His unmeasurable strength and peace. When I feel as if the storm will over take me, I know that the blessed Trinity is overseeing my protection.

Today is always a day of new beginnings, I can be in His joy because I am being led by His calling... guided by His hand... protected by His mercy and grace... and I seek to know His voice.

We are not walking alone, we have His word, songs of praise, fellowship in and with His flock...
Join me in an assured smile and look for His hand at work in your life... listen for His messages of love for you and others around you... read a passage that is given for you at this moment... on this day.

His call can always be heard:

I will whistle for them and gather them,

for I will redeem them.

Zechariah 10:8 

James 1:27 Faultless

Good afternoon Abba, Good afternoon Jesus, Good afternoon Holy Spirit,

Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this:

to look after orphans and widows in their distress 

and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.

James 1:27

Most of us know about tithing from our first fruits (the income from the works of our hands=10%). Many of us tithe back to Lord with donations, thru prayerful discernment we recognize an area that we are drawn to in order to help others. We even tithe with our "free" time by volunteering to help in so many ways. Since I learned that tithing is God's way of blessing us through our willingness to honor our abundance, I have had so many opportunities to give to others. Through that giving, I have been blessed beyond measure in my soul, within my heart, and with in my consciousness. It truly brings a spring to your step and joy that overflows in so many ways.

The area that is one of the hardest to accept and keep is in keeping oneself from being polluted by the world. Standing in faith is a merciful boldness. Being freed from our past is His gracious mercy for all our sins (not one is worse than the other). Yet, once we have made the decision to walk in His will... well that means we turn our back on all things that would not bring a smile to His face or honor to His name. What is of the world? With such wisdom He has given us the book of Proverbs. We are guided by the Holy Spirit to live righteous lives, to think only on that which He wants us to know, to guard our thoughts and our tongues in order to receive the fullness of His will for us.

With today's devotional time, I was so grateful for His reminder that once I take my focus off of my self and my desires... He will unveil the needs of the helpless. With a generous heart and loving willingness, I can be available for those in need. If the world's messages consume my "free" time, I will never be anything more than a loud gong to His ears.

Holidays are around the corner, what would Jesus us want us to be doing? The nations of the world are in desire straights making decisions about power and not lives. The press is all about political gain and "talking" out their wisdom. Our entertainment is dark, moody, and filled with slanderous discussions and lust-filled desires. Have we really become a generation that is easy to program?

Keeping ourselves from being polluted by the world... what does this mean to you?

Isaiah 58:6-7 Pleasing God

Good morning Abba, Good morning Jesus, Good morning Holy Spirit,

Is this not the fast that I have chosen:

To loose the bonds of wickedness,

To undo the heavy burdens, 

To let the oppressed go free,

And that you break every yoke?

Is it not to share your bread with the hungry,

And that you bring to your house the poor who are cast out;

When you see the naked,

that you cover him.

And not hide yourself from your own flesh?

Isaiah 58:6-7

For bible study, I pondered what was our Lord teaching me through Isaiah's prophetic word? Once we have made Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior, what is the way in which He would want us to walk? What is my witness if it is not in my actions or words? Is my repentance and acceptance enough to bring a smile to Abba's face?

If you keep my commandments,

you will abide in My love,

just as I have kept My Father's commandments

and abide in His love.

These things I have spoken to you,

that My joy may remain in you,

and that your joy may be full.

This is My commandment,

that you love one another as I have loved you.

John 15:10-12 

Even though Jesus gave us His new commandment to love as He loved, He never said that the Old Testament Commandments were to be forgotten. Instead, He reminded us that as He walked with us here on earth... He kept His father's commandments:  

So why is the world so willing to "assume" that God's commandments are no longer a requirement?  Why would God's love and guidance be so "offensive" to others that all must keep quiet about Jesus' truth? The Mosaic law has remained a compass for generations, thousands of years, and yet within the last few decades "the world" has slowly "chipped" away that which was meant for man's safety, joy, and freedom.

Beloved, do not believe every spirit,

 but test the spirits to see whether they are from God,

 for many false prophets have gone out into the world. 

 By this you know the Spirit of God:

 every spirit that confesses that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is from God, 

 and every spirit that does not confess Jesus is not from God.

 This is the spirit of the antichrist,

 which you heard was coming and now is in the world already.

1 John 4:1-3

Testing the spirits, using our system of checks and balances... what does God's word say? Is what the world wants, what we should be accepting? Does today's society measure up to God's will or are the scales being tipped by what the world's "truth" is designing as an acceptable way to think and act? Who does the world say Jesus is?

Every day it seems like freedom is not free any longer. So what can I do to bring a smile to Abba's face?

 Then the King will say to those on his right,

 ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father;

 take your inheritance,

 the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. 

 For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat,

 I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink,

 I was a stranger and you invited me in, 

 I needed clothes and you clothed me,

 I was sick and you looked after me,

 I was in prison and you came to visit me.

 Matthew 25:34-36

Psalm 62:7-8 Pour Out Your Hearts

Good morning Abba, Good morning Jesus, Good morning Holy Spirit,

In God is my salvation and glory,

my rock of strength;

in God is my refuge.

Trust Him at all times, O people.

Pour out your hearts before him,

for God is our refuge.

Psalm 62:7-8

Loving the Lord, our God with our whole heart, mind, spirit, and soul is a blessing beyond anything in or off this world. It is in awe that I ponder the depth of His love for me... for me a sinner... for me a person who can be so undeserving. This summer's journey has been an inspiring path. God's calling has led me to new revelations in what my "walking in faith" can be. Surrendering your will can be a huge leap of faith... and yet, it is such a deep relief to know that I belong to my Creator.

His goodness is all around us... you can see it in every tiny aspect of our life... you can see it by simply looking up at an evening sky. You can sense it in the gentleness of a breeze... you can hear it in the purity of a toddler's giggle... you can see it in the spectacular artistry of each season. He is in the touch of an infant... He is in the comfort of a compassionate listener... He is in the thrill of a new adventure.  He is in all things concerning our life!

Trusting in Him at all times, can I turn over my control and let Him be my guardian? Do I trust in Him for the all of those little aspects in my daily walk? The big "ticket" trust is always a prayerful cry, yet what about those little aspects of life? His word demonstrates that He is always awaiting our notice of His presence. He is always diligent, patient beyond my understanding, and so ready to hear from us. He will put His angels on assignment for us when we are in danger, so why would He not be interested in our joys, sorrows, and frustrations of every day living? The other day, my hand could not unscrew a jar lid... you know it... I did ask Him for strength to get that lid off... and He provided! There He was in the littlest of things.

Pour out your hearts before him, am I willing to take all... all... of my concerns to Him before I "speak" anything to others? I have been on a quest in guarding my tongue and it, for sure, is not an easy task. You know those moments when some situation or someone has just offended you... you feel the "need" to defend yourself, well, I've learned to be submissive at that moment since I am immediately in prayer... asking our Lord to "deal" with them while He is "guarding" my mind and heart. The hardship is in "guarding" my tongue and allowing Him the room to work in my heart and thoughts. It is so much easier to "tell" someone of the "offense," to seek their support or their help... some what like a release valve that needs to vent. God's fifth commandment speaks to us to honor our parents... does this not also mean to honor anyone who could be trying us?  We can find strength in these moments by remembering that our Lord Jesus stood before others without speaking in His own defense... Jesus knew that nothing had power over Him unless it had been given by Abba. I know that I serve the only true and living God, no one and no principality has any power over me, for El Shadi (Abba)... His son my Lord Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit are my defenders... I answer only to them.

Today is a day that began with three amazing deer in my front yard, the sun rising in spectacular colors, and my daughter and granddaughter making waffles and egg biscuits with me. My morning was blessed to overflowing... So, for the rest of this day, I choose to look for Him to free me from my concerns and enjoy this day as His gift of "goodness"....

To God be the glory... for He is good... all of the time... and... all of the time... He is good!

My God's not dead...

Ezekiel 36:25 Cleansed and Renewed

Good morning Abba, Good morning Jesus, Good morning Holy Spirit,

I will pour clean water on you and wash away all your sins.

Ezekiel 36:25

The cleansing power of water... What would we do without it? It runs so freely here in America, just like electricity... or freedom of speech... and opening a Bible...

Create in me a clean heart, O God,

And renew a steadfast spirit within me.

Do not cast me away from Your presence,

And do not take Your Holy Spirit from me.

Restore to me the joy of Your salvation,

And uphold me by Your generous Spirit.

Then I will teach transgressors Your ways,

And sinners shall be converted to You.

Psalm 51:10-13

His promises for those whose choose Him and His son, our Lord Jesus Christ. I wonder, what do we do on a daily basis that "teaches" God's ways (not what the media, political, or social network enforces), His way... His teachings... His words (taking it to the Bible)?  Do we share what we have learned from our closeness with our Lord?  When others are debating, do we witness His truth (think WWJD)? When others are standing in judgement, being critical, and overpowering someone with their "worldly" beliefs, do we speak out in support of God's word?  Why do so many believe that their "personal faith" needs to be "quiet" and not shared? Our Lord, His apostles, and Christians all around the world... are not quiet!  Why is shame... silencing our calling?

I heard that a preacher asked, "If at some moment you heard that the social media networks were rounding up everyone who has posted and received information of God, Jesus, and or the Holy Spirit... would you be chosen?"

Joshua 1:8 His Instructions

Good morning Abba, Good morning Jesus, Good morning Holy Spirit,

...You shall meditate on it day and night.

That you may be careful to do according to all

that is written in it...

Joshua 1:8

Such perfect timing my Lord. Yesterday was a day that had wonderful moments of joy (talking to my only living Aunts= 89+). Their wisdom, their joys and sorrows, their connection to my life as I was being raised... pure joy when I listen to their voice... much strength when they share.  

God's word creates that same joy, wisdom and strength. It wasn't until I began searching and reading the Bible that I knew how much His word would guide everything in my life.  His word makes my life worth living... worth battling that which comes against me and mine... worth stopping to "see" what His blessings are.

In the morning, O Lord, 

You will hear my voice.

In the morning, 

I will order my prayer to You and eagerly watch.

Psalm 5:3 

In the morning, O Lord... Such sweet words. I am at the end of this daily blogging journey. The school bells will be ringing and it will be just enough time to greet my day with the Lord and get on the road. When the seasons begin changing, I must admit that I get "giddy" with each new "palate" of color. Abba's creation is truly a splendor "unfolding" before our eyes. In the morning I read, I pray, I praise and then I "eagerly watch" as His day dawns. When we are seeking answers to prayer, sometimes we want to rush before He has given us the confirmation to move. Just for today... well maybe every day... 

I will place my prayers before Him and eagerly watch for His answer!

2 Corinthians 5: 17-20 Ambassadors for Christ

Good morning Abba, Good morning Jesus, Good morning Holy Spirit,

This means that if anyone is in Christ,

he is a new creation.

The old order has passed away;

now all is new!

All this has been done by God,

who has reconciled us to himself through Christ

and has given us the ministry of reconciliation.

I mean that God, in Christ, 

was reconciling the world to himself,

not counting man's transgressions against them,

and that He has entrusted the message of reconciliation to us.

This makes us ambassadors for Christ...

2 Corinthians 5:17-20

These words are blessings.  Not only is there the wonderful restoration and rejuvenation through a repentant heart, but there is God's confirmation that we are forgiven... we are made new... the past has no power against us.  Now this is the hard part, how do I accept the truth of this pardon?  How do I walk away from the "nagging" flashes of the past?  

I "adore" the cleansing that washes over me once I take my burdens (sin-fullness) before our Lord.  Gratefulness isn't a strong enough emotion for my heart's thankfulness that God promises to listen, to forgive, to pardon, and to restore.  Every level of "pruning" provides a "bounce" to my step.  In freedom (from sin), I have found strength in God's will for my life

The "walking" through transgressions into forgiveness and reconciliation... also leads to acceptance about our "dependence" on our Lord.  That "life-style" is one of humility, knowing that it isn't always about me!  Facing the truth and then desiring the "blessings" of His watch over me, His desire for me, His goodness-mercy-grace, His favor and prosperity... His loving me enough to "see" me through to completion!

Must I wait as His ambassador while He is restoring and "raising" me up?  I say no, our walk as His ambassador/witness began while we were on our knees... the moment we called His name... the instant He touched us!

We have each other, His word, and the Holy Spirit... we are called... we are sent...

Galatians 3:26-27 Attired with Christ

Good morning Abba, Good morning Jesus, Good morning Holy Spirit,

For ye are all the children of God

by faith in Christ Jesus.

For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ;

have put on Christ.

Galatians 3:26-27

What does "have put on Christ" mean? What does this look like to God, in our mirror, and to everyone we encounter?  During this morning's "porch" time with my Bible and daily readings, I was thinking about a salvation page that I would be writing.  As with any other morning, I had asked our Lord to "show" me what words He wanted me to "walk" with during this day. I did not need to search His word, for it was already laid out in today's reading (The Duck Commander's Devotional):

Let us behave decently,

as in the daytime, not in carousing and drunkenness,

not in sexual immorality and debauchery,

not in dissension and jealousy.

Rather, clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ, 

and do not think about how to gratify the desires of the sinful flesh.

Romans 13:13-14

At that moment of salvation, remember what it felt like on the inside? For me it was like I was a little girl on any Easter morning. The newness was "all over" me. Cleaned to a sparkle...nails done...hair curled with bows holding the hair away from my face. Spring time colors bursting on my dress, ruffles and lace, shiny white patent shoes, gloves, purse with a mirror and hankie...and yes, the perfect Easter bonnet. The sparkling newness was bubbling on the inside readied to gush forth in joyous anticipation (giddy all the way)... this was the day that church would be overflowing with those I had not seen for awhile.  This was the day that we would have all those treats, especially the bunny cake (chocolate with boiled icing and coconut). This was the day I would be traveling to Grandma's!

At the precise moment of salvation we stood in the presence of our Lord. Heaven was singing, Jesus was smiling, Abba gave an approving nod. The book of the Lamb recorded our name with a "seal" of approval that guaranteed our safety in our travels, a return ticket home. With our first step we began walking in His light. We had been ransomed from sin, cleansed by His blood, and clothed with His love. The scales had fallen from our eyes and everything looked crisp, cleaner, more radiant. Our smile could not be contained and our tongues wanted to speak out the joy of being forgiven and freed.

Today, are others "seeing" the fruit of that salvation attire?  Are we still looking like Him?  Are we "on fire" with the desire to speak out the joy of being forgiven and freed? 

  Shine

Make 'em wonder what you've got
Make 'em wish that they were not
On the outside looking bored
Shine
Let it shine before all men
Let'em see good works, and then
Let 'em glorify the Lord

Shine sung by The Newsboys

 Writer(s): James Patrick Glennie, Peter Hook, Lawrence Gott, David, Timothy Booth, Steve Taylor
Copyright: Warner Sojourner Music, Warner/Chappell Music Ltd., Stage Three Music Publishing Limited, Soylent Tunes, Chrysalis Music Ltd.

1 Thessalonians 4:16-18 The Trumpet of God

Good morning Abba, Good morning Jesus, Good morning Holy Spirit,

For the Lord himself, with a word of command,

with the voice of an archangel and with the trumpet of God,

will come down from Heaven,

and the dead in Christ will rise first.

Then we who are alive, who are left,

will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air.

Thus we shall always be with the Lord.

Therefore, console one another with these words.

1 Thessalonians 4:16-18

With the trumpet of God... Gabriel will blow!  Oh, so many years ago I was introduced to a delightful woman of God.  She had just published an uplifting book entitled "He's Gonna Toot and I'm Gonna Scoot."  Learning how to place one foot in front of the other until we are called home can be unbearable, it can be made easier with the help and prayers of others... and sometimes it takes a good laugh to release the stress and turn over the burdens that are weighing us down.

Those who are alive...are living in the every day "stuff" of life.  Waking each day, walking through the day with strength (praying, reading the word of God, and praising Him).  We are laying down in the evening (reading, praying, and resting).  We are all rushing here and there with meals, cleaning, laundry, activities...sports...meetings...church, and grabbing a few of those "precious moments."  Those of us on vacation, visiting friends, at the movies, or simply reading a book are enjoying a few moments away from the hectic schedules of living a "full" life.  At some point in time, everyone of us are engaged in a moment of joy, sorrow, grief, or pain.  Yet, until then we prepare for God's appointed moment, in which, we will all be gathered "alive" in His presence and awaiting His judgement.  Before then we have been given His discernment through the Holy Spirit and God's word.  We can be ready, not caught off guard, for the promise of our Lord Jesus Christ return... or when Gabriel is given the go ahead to blow that final trumpet. 

We have been taught about these days... we have praised Him for His promise to return... we have read and studied the book of Revelation... we are the His "watchmen" during these days of peril... and yet... how many of us are truly ready for our Lord to return?

Many years ago, a dear friend of mine lovingly insisted that I should read the best seller "Left Behind."  At the time I thought, "Why in the world would I want to read about the worst book of the Bible... those end times... all of that chaos?"  Although this series is a fictional account of what God's truth will be in the last days before our Lord Jesus returns, it changed the way I thought of myself... my calling... what I chose to know as truth... and what I was willing to stand for.  

After this I looked, and, behold, a door was opened in Heaven:

and the first voice which I heard was as it were of a trumpet talking with me;

which said, Come up hither,

and I will shew thee things which must be hereafter.

Revelation 4:1

I began this journey, this quest for His will in my life.  Was I truly looking for His return?  Would I begin learning about His returning in fulfillment of the Word of God (book of Revelation)?  Was I longing for His return in order to bring an end to all of the deception, pain, suffering, and selfishness within our world?  Was I so in love with Him, that I loved His promise to return... even if it meant that the worst times of our world... would be turned over to an evil... so devastating that everyone will be forced to choose Jesus or life with the Antichrist?

Behold, I shew you a mystery;

We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed.

In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye,

at the last trump;

for the trumpet shall sound,

and the dead shall be raised incorruptible,

and we shall be changed.

1 Corinthians 15:51-52 

In the "twinkling of an eye, at the last trump; for the trumpet shall sound.."  What must I be looking for?  I know, that I know that I must be in God's word daily.  God's word is my manual for living.  There is no "gray" area.  Either it is all truth or it isn't.  Either His word is our history and our future... or man is wiser.  God's first commandment warns us against having any other gods before Him (Deuteronomy 5:7).  This includes picking and choosing which parts of the Bible to believe in.  It includes changing what His word says in order to ease our conscience.  It means that we accept His words, His will, and His truth.  We must turn "off" what is in our culture today or on our news in order to know His truth.  We have a choice... to follow the "pressures" of the media or to learn more about what God has promised in the book of Revelation?  What does the second coming of Jesus mean?

Given all that is happening in our world today, we will need to stand together in faith.  We can be watching, always ready with God's word for those who are in need, always ready to check with the Bible that which could be deceiving those around us.  When all is said and done... we believe in prayer, God's word as truth, and that we are not alone.... 

 Watch ye, stand fast...

1 Corinthians 16:13 

The Days of Elijah sung by Judy Jacobs

Take a moment to laugh while we are walking out this life...

Barbara Johnson (1927-2007) died July 2^nd, 2007 of cancer (Central Nervous System Lymphoma) after a valiant 6 year fight against the disease. During her illness, she added four more books to her long list of published works, including one that takes humorous pokes at her life with cancer. Affectionately called the “Geranium Lady,” a title taken from her bestselling book, Stick a Geranium in Your Hat and Be Happy, her homespun humor and hope in God in the midst of tragedy, ministered to millions.
A strong Christian woman who relied on her faith in God and her sense of humor to persevere through many devastating experiences, her life was plagued by a string of tragedies. Her husband was in a near fatal accident and slowly recovered from debilitating injuries. She lost one son in Vietnam and another son to a drunk driver. Her third son was estranged from the family while pursuing a homosexual lifestyle. But, she emerged from these experiences having learned that though pain is inevitable, people can choose to pick flowers instead of weeds.
Her compassion extended far beyond the pages of her encouraging books. Wanting to use her own pain to help others, she and her husband Bill founded Spatula Ministries, a unique organization that uses a “spatula of love” to help parents “peel themselves off the ceiling” and begin on the road to recovery. She wrote her first book after reaching the age of 50 and was voted “Celebrity Mom of the Year” for 1996. Prior to being diagnosed with cancer, she toured across the country as a popular conference speaker and part of the "Women of Faith" tour. Her many books have comforted millions of women, bringing them hope and humor in times of distress. She will be missed by many, but her life will live on in her numerous books.

 All Products by Barbara Johnson at Christianbook.com

Luke 23:32-43 Forgiven

Good morning Abba, Good morning Jesus, Good morning Holy Spirit,

Two others also, who were criminals, were being led away to be put to death with Him. 

When they came to the place called The Skull, there they crucified Him and the criminals, 

one on the right and the other on the left. 

But Jesus was saying, "Father, forgive them; for they do not know what they are doing." 

And they cast lots, dividing up His garments among themselves. 

And the people stood by, looking on. 

And even the rulers were sneering at Him, saying, 

"He saved others; let Him save Himself if this is the Christ of God, His Chosen One."

The soldiers also mocked Him, coming up to Him, offering Him sour wine,

and saying, "If You are the King of the Jews, save Yourself!"

Now there was also an inscription above Him, "THIS IS THE KING OF THE JEWS."

One of the criminals who were hanged there was hurling abuse at Him, saying, "Are You not the Christ? Save Yourself and us!"

But the other answered, and rebuking him said, "Do you not even fear God, since you are under the same sentence of condemnation? "And we indeed are suffering justly, for we are receiving what we deserve for our deeds; but this man has done nothing wrong."

And he was saying, "Jesus, remember me when You come in Your kingdom!"

And He said to him, "Truly I say to you, today you shall be with Me in Paradise."

Eternally grateful... what does it mean for us to be grateful for our Lord's passionate desire for us to come and follow?  How do we repent for that which has separated us from Him?  How can I accept His amazing love, grace, and mercy?  As for me, today I will be walking in contemplation what His "forgiveness" is worth...

Three silhouettes were etched upon the barren sky.
The sun was high, yet turning black as if to mourn.
Suspended there between the worlds of life and death,
With every breath I cursed the hour that I was born.
 
I starred upon the crowd that scorned my agony,
Along with me, each one of them could be condemned.
Yeah hanging there and suffering much more than I
The man beside me whispered father forgive them.
 
How could he ever forgive them,
Why he would want to I did not know.
Who was this man who could love them,
After the way that they hurt him so.

Without a word he bore the mocking and the pain,
And then I came to his defense to my surprise.
And when I turned and asked him to remember me,
I suddenly saw paradise within his eyes.
 
How could he ever forgive me?
Why he would want to I did not know.
Who was this man who could love me?
After the way that I hurt him so.
And then, I knew, he was who he claimed to be.
Only one could forgive and make us free.
 
Forgiven, forgiven for all of the past.
Forgiven, forgiven forgiven at last.
 
Forgiven, forgiven,
Forgiven, and free.
Forgiven, forgiven eternally!

Silverwind 

Forgiven.mp3 Play   Download

Forgiven .mp3 album: Silvewind - A Song In The Night lovesongchristianchurch.com

Mark 10:45 A Life Ransomed

Good morning Abba, Good morning Jesus, Good morning Holy Spirit,

For even the Son of man came 

not to be ministered unto,

but to minister,

and to give His life a ransom for many.

Mark 10:45

There are so many levels of faith in God our father (Abba), in His only begotten son (Yeshua), and in the Holy Spirit (the breath of Heaven).  As a very little girl, in knew to run to God (Abba).  He was so faithful to me... He would greet me with a breeze upon my check.  He provided a mighty oak tree for me to curl up against and rest in the safety of His arms.  He gave the songs of the birds to lift my sorrow and allowed me to follow them in flight as my spirit flew with them... dodging and soaring above my head.  He gave me to the quiet shelter within my church... a place to ride my bike to (my destination)... a place that was full of peace... aglow with images of His son's passion... warmed by the heat of the day or cooled by the gentle breeze circulating within His house.  Not once did He ask anything of me.  He did not demand me to go or do anything.  He was just ever present... waiting for me to come... waiting for me to spend some time within His loving embrace.

The Holy Spirit, my breath of Heaven, my comforter... my guide... my freedom fighter.  He gives me the "unveiled" truth as I seek my Lord's will, as I repent for missed opportunities or for my human-sided words.  He prompts me with discernment, keeping me walking past that which would endanger myself or others. He communicates with my spirit, always keeping me "watchful" and ever ready for discussions, praise, and forgiveness.  He ignites the joy down deep within my soul, with feet willing to dance, and a joy bubbling forth.  He ushers me into the presence of my Lord, my Savior, my Shepherd... 

our Lord Jesus Christ... Yeshua the Son of God... our Messiah

The Son of man who came.  Wow, what would it have been like in Heaven, that day, when our Lord asked Abba for permission to come and be our ransom?  Abba knowing that the world... His creation (all of us) was once again at a perilous "cross-road" and in need of His perfected love, hope, healing, and redemption (the passion, the love, the sanctifying blood of Jesus.)

Created and designed by you,

nurtured and loved,

blessed with abundance,

and a will to choose.

Pained by forgetfulness,

pushed to the point of wrath.

Yet,  you answered with unmerited mercy...

you sent us your Son.

KMLS

Joel 2:26 Fulfillment

Good morning Abba, Good morning Jesus, Good morning Holy Spirit,

And ye shall eat in plenty,

and be satisfied, 

and praise the name of the Lord your God,

that hath dealt wondrously with you;

and My people shall never be ashamed.

Joel 2:26

Two days of joy.  Praising and singing my own little "shout out" to the Lord.  Some mornings it's as if there are so many passages just zooming around in my mind, my heart feels the joy of His word...and yet, I get so filled that I can't concentrate on just one of His amazing truths.  Maybe my focus should just be quiet and know this joy.

Sensing deep with in my spirit, there is a bubbling of fulfillment that is crowding out any doubt, that is quieting any anxiety, that is cleansing all the "stuff"  of worldly desires.  Most of us get a bit antsy when our pantries are bare and our refrigerator has a few left over bottles of condiments.  God's word promises that we will never hunger nor thirst:

Yeshua said to them,

 “I AM THE LIVING GOD,

 The Bread of Life;

 whoever comes to me shall not hunger,

 and whoever trusts in me shall never thirst.”

John 6:35

Aramaic ENT

Today's scripture blesses us with a gentle, loving, and calming sense that we do not need to feel anxious for anything.  Our "reality" can be cloaked in a deception that keeps us in a whirlwind of chaos.  There is always a new door to open, there is always an avenue leading to others who can help us in our "hour" of need.  It's sad, but there are not enough parents and churches teaching us when we are young how to "resource" as a way to "prepare" for those "hours" of need that will come in and out of our life.

 I have been young and now I am old, 

Yet I have not seen the righteous forsaken, 

Or his descendants begging bread.

Psalm 37:25

Today's "politically correct" profiling "screams" to us that there should not be "entitlements."  I wonder if this keeps a "pressure cooker" of fear steaming and boiling?  During the Great Depression, our relatives, neighbors, friends, and country lived under the same type of stress... yet, they still maintained that "rolling up your sleeves and be about it" attitude that pioneered thru the darkest days in America's history.  Is this what Joel was trying to encourage?

In times of lack, look to Him.  He promises to watch over, provide a way, and give to us in order to fulfill our needs.  We dust our selves off, we "seek" a way through, we praise every "itty-bitty" proof of His "wondrous" handiwork in and around us, and then we stand tall... not ashamed of our moment of need but with confidence that He will provide... some how... some way. 

Today is the day that I will see,

His hand is at work for me and mine.

Today is the day that I can sing, 

I will rejoice and be glad in it. 

Aramaic English New Testament

Exodus 1:6-8 Wisdom

Good morning Abba, Good morning Jesus, Good morning Holy Spirit,

Now Joseph and all his brothers and all that generation died,

but the Israelites were exceedingly fruitful,

they multiplied greatly,

increased in numbers and became so numerous that the land was filled with them.

Then a new king, to whom Joseph meant nothing,

came to power in Egypt.

Exodus 1:6-8

This morning is one of those mornings in which the scripture passage caused a hesitation.  My mind reacted quickly with an "Ok, Lord, and what do you want me to do with this passage?"  My spirit felt a bit more willing with a, "Hmmm, yes Lord, I will take a closer look."

 History records Israel's birth as a nation.  It is in Egypt that between two and three million people were living, working, dieing, and apparently "multiplying" for God's plan and Egypt's well fare.  With this new King, history becomes re-written and forgotten.  Egypt enjoyed the "fruits" of Joseph's walk with God.   Yet now, Egypt will know the wrath of God because of a desire to control God's people.  A desire to be the ultimate seat of power, a desire to destroy those that could stand in opposition of the King's decisions.  I wonder why generations "refuse" to learn from the past?  Why does our free-will always lead us into relationships that will cause us to stumble?  Since our free-will is a gift from God, why do we want to walk in ways that aren't pleasing unto Him?

Anyway, this new King decides to put the Israelites back into bondage.  They will put, "every son that is born into the river."  This will ensure oppression in the women, domination over any one in opposition, and will discontinue the blood line of Israel.  Yep, even all those years ago rulers wanted to "put an end" to God's plan and His chosen (Satan does not give up...at least not until Jesus returns... then it will all be "finished" Revelation 19-20:3).  So, Lord this is what we are watching again... it's in our news, people are taking sides, the press is making its case either for or against your Israel... I know to pray, what else would you have me do?

And I saw heaven opened, and behold a white horse:

and He that sat upon him was called Faithful and True,

and in righteousness He doth judge and make war.

And He hath on His vesture and on his thigh,

a name written,

KING OF KINGS,

AND LORD OF LORDS.

Revelation 19:11; 16

Most of us know the story of Moses and the plagues that came upon Egypt (Exodus 2-14). His-story is replaying once more in the promised land of Israel (Deuteronomy 32:49-33).  I can't help but wonder, what do these scriptures mean for me, for my children and their children, for my family... loved ones... friends... coworkers... students... my grocery clerks... etc?  I really don't have answers to share with you.  This is one of those moments of faith, a leap that said, "Yes, Lord."  I think these passages are meant for us to read and ponder.  Why are they important to us today?  Are we meant to use them somehow?  What is it that He needs us to do?  I trust our Lord so much, that I know He has a plan... in fact we know His plan (it is found in the books of Daniel, Isaiah, and Revelation). 

Just for today I will wait on Him to reveal more about these passages.  I can say that if it comes to choosing a king to follow... 

I'm choosing my Lord Jesus...

 He is reigning from above,

  in His service is gladness,

 and His banner (our banner) is love.