In 1 Cor. 1:18, "The Message that points to Christ on the cross seems like sheer silliness to those hell-bent on destruction, but for those on the way of salvation it makes perfect sense!"
Whether Paul was just a preacher as he maintained to the people of Corinth, or a man of God for his own time as well as ours, I don't really know. I do know that his words are still powerful today in the lives of all Christians, and I hope, also in the lives of those who may be trying to keep one foot on each side of the border between the world of indecision and the world where God reigns.
These worlds are where our hearts now rest. Some of us rest in the world of self and what is good for one's self and some live in the world of God and what's good for all, including His people. His people are those who call themselves His Children, those who have committed their lives to Him. Beyond the other border into the secular world are those who see God's people as errant fools, or those who have not as yet heard about Jesus' giving each of us the Way of Salvation. Oh, when will the world align itself with our beloved Lord?
God, may those who love you be instruments in some way to show others that all of the World will benefit by Your sacrifice on the Cross! Amen.
Lord, hear our prayers!
Jo INMN
Friday, September 30, 2016
Thursday, September 29, 2016
BEAUTIFUL TO NEED YOU, GOD
In Galatians 3:12,9 we find, "No one can sustain a relationship with God," (by trying) "to live by his or her own effort independent of God" I suspect it would be doomed to failure, as the Scripture suggest.
Paul, in his letter to the Christians of Galatia tries to extol the belief that if we want to have a relationship with God we must not try to run the show. God wants us in our entirety. He will design, direct and ultimately have the glory for any work we may do. And our desire to know Him more and more will create in God a desire to reveal Himself in the work He asks us to do, in the results of our prayers to Him, in our further neediness for His direction, in growth in our own spirit, and perhaps, even in a revelation for our eyes or ears alone.
God is generous in His gifts and we must be generous in our belief and our relationship with Him and with others. We must always seek God and His desires first.
Although there may be times when we feel far from God, we must not trust those feelings. We must know he is ever present. But it is imperative that we make the first move. Our prayers are the first move, always. God's ears are very good! Even a whisper or a thought directly to Him will find His listening ears. He is always delighted to hear from you and me, be it a simple request or an immediate troubled situation.
God, help us to remember that our life must not be independent from You. Keep us from believing that we can live our life well without You, not needing You. We know that our lives will be as nothing without your guidance. Help us to see the beauty in needing You. Amen.
Jo INMN
Paul, in his letter to the Christians of Galatia tries to extol the belief that if we want to have a relationship with God we must not try to run the show. God wants us in our entirety. He will design, direct and ultimately have the glory for any work we may do. And our desire to know Him more and more will create in God a desire to reveal Himself in the work He asks us to do, in the results of our prayers to Him, in our further neediness for His direction, in growth in our own spirit, and perhaps, even in a revelation for our eyes or ears alone.
God is generous in His gifts and we must be generous in our belief and our relationship with Him and with others. We must always seek God and His desires first.
Although there may be times when we feel far from God, we must not trust those feelings. We must know he is ever present. But it is imperative that we make the first move. Our prayers are the first move, always. God's ears are very good! Even a whisper or a thought directly to Him will find His listening ears. He is always delighted to hear from you and me, be it a simple request or an immediate troubled situation.
God, help us to remember that our life must not be independent from You. Keep us from believing that we can live our life well without You, not needing You. We know that our lives will be as nothing without your guidance. Help us to see the beauty in needing You. Amen.
Jo INMN
Wednesday, September 28, 2016
FOREVER! AMEN!
Mark 15:39 asks this question: "If you're really God's son, come down from that cross!"
The people jeered at the man who hung on the cross. "God's Son! What will they think of next? There's always someone in the world who is trying to draw attention to themselves. God's Son! What a nut!!
We ask ourselves, "Jesus, are you really God's Son?" The Scripture tells us this is so. They also tell us that Jesus died to take our place on the cross, and He died because He wanted to atone for our sins. Sounds like some kind of fairy tale, for someone to die in place of the guilty so that by believing the story others could become children of God, too. How could this be truth?
It could. It is because God planned it this way.
It is truth, and I know it. Without tangible proof, others may disagree, but I know. I know this because of the place within myself that acknowledges what is truth. Jesus Christ is the Son of God and he died on a cross so that I may have true access to God through Jesus. He died that I might live without fear, with hope, with the Holy Spirit within me, and the knowledge that I am loved and forgiven and will have eternal life with Christ, the Father and His Spirit.. forever!
I know; I truly know! And I also know that I am not perfect except through the forgiveness of my God. May His Spirit reign in me...and in you...forever. Amen.
Jo INMN
The people jeered at the man who hung on the cross. "God's Son! What will they think of next? There's always someone in the world who is trying to draw attention to themselves. God's Son! What a nut!!
We ask ourselves, "Jesus, are you really God's Son?" The Scripture tells us this is so. They also tell us that Jesus died to take our place on the cross, and He died because He wanted to atone for our sins. Sounds like some kind of fairy tale, for someone to die in place of the guilty so that by believing the story others could become children of God, too. How could this be truth?
It could. It is because God planned it this way.
It is truth, and I know it. Without tangible proof, others may disagree, but I know. I know this because of the place within myself that acknowledges what is truth. Jesus Christ is the Son of God and he died on a cross so that I may have true access to God through Jesus. He died that I might live without fear, with hope, with the Holy Spirit within me, and the knowledge that I am loved and forgiven and will have eternal life with Christ, the Father and His Spirit.. forever!
I know; I truly know! And I also know that I am not perfect except through the forgiveness of my God. May His Spirit reign in me...and in you...forever. Amen.
Jo INMN
Tuesday, September 27, 2016
READY WILLLING AND ABLE TO LEARN
Yesterday we talked about the saltiness of the heart. Today, I wish to tell you about one of those things which make the heart salty..the commandments from the Lord. Deut. 6;6 tells us, "Write these commandments that I've given you on your hearts. Get them inside of you and then get them inside of your children."
These words of Moses to the people of Israel were the very words God had instructed Moses to say. To us today, Moses words are still words of God from God Himself. The people in Moses day were afraid to hear God's actual voice, so with great relief and good intentions, they listened to God's words through Moses. Today we can read them in a Bible, or hear them from our church pew, but they are for us to hear, still!
A friend of ours many years ago, upon coming to visit us in a new house, brought a house-warming gift in the form of a plaque that had the Ten Commandments written on it. We hung it on the wall facing our most-used door, for us to see, for our adult children to see when visiting, and for all other visitors who entered. Those commandments were in our hearts and also in the hearts of our often visited children. Memorization came quite easy...through constant reading.
Any time a question came up from our own minds or the mind of another, child or visitor, we had plenty of time to talk about it, and it made for some very interesting moments, in fact, learning moments. We are never too old to learn and never too young to teach!
Lord God, prepare our hearts to learn, that when we find a teaching moment or need a moment to learn something more about you, we will be ready, and our hearts will be ready to accept what you have to say. Make us ready, willing and able to learn! Amen.
Jo INMN
These words of Moses to the people of Israel were the very words God had instructed Moses to say. To us today, Moses words are still words of God from God Himself. The people in Moses day were afraid to hear God's actual voice, so with great relief and good intentions, they listened to God's words through Moses. Today we can read them in a Bible, or hear them from our church pew, but they are for us to hear, still!
A friend of ours many years ago, upon coming to visit us in a new house, brought a house-warming gift in the form of a plaque that had the Ten Commandments written on it. We hung it on the wall facing our most-used door, for us to see, for our adult children to see when visiting, and for all other visitors who entered. Those commandments were in our hearts and also in the hearts of our often visited children. Memorization came quite easy...through constant reading.
Any time a question came up from our own minds or the mind of another, child or visitor, we had plenty of time to talk about it, and it made for some very interesting moments, in fact, learning moments. We are never too old to learn and never too young to teach!
Lord God, prepare our hearts to learn, that when we find a teaching moment or need a moment to learn something more about you, we will be ready, and our hearts will be ready to accept what you have to say. Make us ready, willing and able to learn! Amen.
Jo INMN
Monday, September 26, 2016
THE SALT OF THE EARTH
Luke 15:34 tells us: "Salt is good, but if it loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? He who has ears to hear, let him hear."
From a study of Luke 15: "Following Christ does not mean a trouble-free life. We must carefully count the cost of becoming Christ's disciples so that we will know what we are getting into and won't be tempted later to turn back. Also, look at salt. Salt can lose its flavor. When it gets wet and then dried, nothing is left but a tasteless residue. Many Christians blend into the world to avoid the cost of standing up for Christ. But Jesus says if Christians love their distinctive saltiness, they become worthless. Just as salt flavors and preserves food, we are to preserve the good in the world, help keep it from spoiling, and bring new flavor to life (and other lives.) This requires careful planning, willing sacrifice and unswerving commitment to Christ's Kingdom. Being "salty" is not easy, but if a Christian fails in this function, he or she fails to represent Christ in the world."
Not only are we to count the cost, but we are to ask ourselves, "Am I salty?"
What did Jesus do that we may be fearful of doing? Perhaps talking to those who are considered cast-off, or troublesome? Touching those bodily who need healing? Being a friend to someone who is antagonistic? Speaking out to those who are considered powerful whom you believe to be wrong? Telling others boldly that they are loved by God? Associating with those who feel lost, unloved, and despairing? To all or each of these we may be fearful to accept the cost of being salt for another, but we must not give in to fear! Take the hand of Christ. Use His power. Take the hand of another and work together. Pray first, pray secondly, and forever. And don't be afraid to move. Just do it!
Even at my age and my years of practice of being a Christian, I am still not salty enough to change this world. In this hour of my life, I see more and more need to sprinkle that salt! This world needs salt, yours and mine. God needs us to use our saltiness!
Lord Jesus, Lend us your hands, your feet, your heart that we might become the salt of the earth. Amen.
Jo INMN
From a study of Luke 15: "Following Christ does not mean a trouble-free life. We must carefully count the cost of becoming Christ's disciples so that we will know what we are getting into and won't be tempted later to turn back. Also, look at salt. Salt can lose its flavor. When it gets wet and then dried, nothing is left but a tasteless residue. Many Christians blend into the world to avoid the cost of standing up for Christ. But Jesus says if Christians love their distinctive saltiness, they become worthless. Just as salt flavors and preserves food, we are to preserve the good in the world, help keep it from spoiling, and bring new flavor to life (and other lives.) This requires careful planning, willing sacrifice and unswerving commitment to Christ's Kingdom. Being "salty" is not easy, but if a Christian fails in this function, he or she fails to represent Christ in the world."
Not only are we to count the cost, but we are to ask ourselves, "Am I salty?"
What did Jesus do that we may be fearful of doing? Perhaps talking to those who are considered cast-off, or troublesome? Touching those bodily who need healing? Being a friend to someone who is antagonistic? Speaking out to those who are considered powerful whom you believe to be wrong? Telling others boldly that they are loved by God? Associating with those who feel lost, unloved, and despairing? To all or each of these we may be fearful to accept the cost of being salt for another, but we must not give in to fear! Take the hand of Christ. Use His power. Take the hand of another and work together. Pray first, pray secondly, and forever. And don't be afraid to move. Just do it!
Even at my age and my years of practice of being a Christian, I am still not salty enough to change this world. In this hour of my life, I see more and more need to sprinkle that salt! This world needs salt, yours and mine. God needs us to use our saltiness!
Lord Jesus, Lend us your hands, your feet, your heart that we might become the salt of the earth. Amen.
Jo INMN
Saturday, September 24, 2016
DON'T SWEAT THE SMALL STUFF!
Luke 12:25,26 tells us, "Can any of you by worrying add a single hour to your span of life? If then you are not able to do so small a thing as that, why do you worry about the rest?"
Jesus is telling His disciples and others how foolish it is to worry. No amount of worrying and stewing can add a second to our lives. Isn't it foolish, then, to worry? Each problem will go away eventually, without any worrying needed. Solutions will show themselves in time. Prayer? Yes! Worry? No !
When we take ourselves out of the center of our lives and put our trust in God's leading and guidance, we can stay perfectly at peace whether we're in the midst of chaos or in sublime joy.
This is difficult to remember when we are forced with a pending problem. Yet, Jesus says, "Don't worry! I'm in charge." My only hope of achieving inner peace and outer calm is to place my hand in His and say, "Lord, you lead the way and I will follow." This, I must remember!
Lord God, give me your peace, so that I do not worry or fear. Amen.
No matter what should happen in the future for both me and Jerry, we trust the Lord God is with us and will be with us. Our prayer daily is, "Lord, lead the way and we will follow."
So may it ever be!
Jo INMN
Jesus is telling His disciples and others how foolish it is to worry. No amount of worrying and stewing can add a second to our lives. Isn't it foolish, then, to worry? Each problem will go away eventually, without any worrying needed. Solutions will show themselves in time. Prayer? Yes! Worry? No !
When we take ourselves out of the center of our lives and put our trust in God's leading and guidance, we can stay perfectly at peace whether we're in the midst of chaos or in sublime joy.
This is difficult to remember when we are forced with a pending problem. Yet, Jesus says, "Don't worry! I'm in charge." My only hope of achieving inner peace and outer calm is to place my hand in His and say, "Lord, you lead the way and I will follow." This, I must remember!
Lord God, give me your peace, so that I do not worry or fear. Amen.
No matter what should happen in the future for both me and Jerry, we trust the Lord God is with us and will be with us. Our prayer daily is, "Lord, lead the way and we will follow."
So may it ever be!
Jo INMN
Friday, September 23, 2016
FORGIVE OTHERS....AND YOURSELF
Luke 6: 36 and 37 tells us, "Be merciful, jut as your father is merciful....forgive and you will be forgiven."
Jesus teaches clearly that those who follow Him and wish to be His disciples must be merciful and forgiving. Although he speaks here of our actions toward others, it is equally important to show these characteristics in action for ourselves. Jesus knew that humans were not divine, yet he calls us to a higher level than our normal human inclination would climb. He says to show mercy and forgiveness to others and yourselves. We can believe He expects those who follow Him to use His power to bring our behavior to a higher level both for the sake of others and for ourselves.
When I am slighted, wronged, criticized, or taken advantage of, I must call on the Almighty Power of God in order to not retaliate and bear a grudge. If I slight another, criticize or take advantage, I must go to that person, and with the power of God, ask for forgiveness. It is hard to do this, but with the power of God, it is possible, important, and necessary.
Lord Jesus, be with me each minute of each day to show love, mercy, and forgiveness both for myself and all others whom I may encounter. Help me to never hold a grudge, but freely let go of all of the hurt and despair I may try to hold both for others and myself. Forgive me for being quick to judge. And give me the freedom and assurance to accept your forgiveness when I have sinned against You or others. Keep me from being sad because I am not perfect, and help me to be glad because You are!
Amen.
Smile, You are in God's sight!
Jo INMN
Jesus teaches clearly that those who follow Him and wish to be His disciples must be merciful and forgiving. Although he speaks here of our actions toward others, it is equally important to show these characteristics in action for ourselves. Jesus knew that humans were not divine, yet he calls us to a higher level than our normal human inclination would climb. He says to show mercy and forgiveness to others and yourselves. We can believe He expects those who follow Him to use His power to bring our behavior to a higher level both for the sake of others and for ourselves.
When I am slighted, wronged, criticized, or taken advantage of, I must call on the Almighty Power of God in order to not retaliate and bear a grudge. If I slight another, criticize or take advantage, I must go to that person, and with the power of God, ask for forgiveness. It is hard to do this, but with the power of God, it is possible, important, and necessary.
Lord Jesus, be with me each minute of each day to show love, mercy, and forgiveness both for myself and all others whom I may encounter. Help me to never hold a grudge, but freely let go of all of the hurt and despair I may try to hold both for others and myself. Forgive me for being quick to judge. And give me the freedom and assurance to accept your forgiveness when I have sinned against You or others. Keep me from being sad because I am not perfect, and help me to be glad because You are!
Amen.
Smile, You are in God's sight!
Jo INMN
Thursday, September 22, 2016
DOES SELF-RIGHTEOUSNESS SEE ITS OWN SIN?
Luke 5:31,32 tells us, "Healthy people don't need a doctor, but sick people do. I didn't come to invite good people to turn to God; I came to invite sinners."
Jesus' response was to the Pharisees who had questioned Jesus about eating with sinners, as Jesus was prone to do. The Pharisees would have nothing to do with sinners and found this a great fault in Jesus. I wonder what might have happened in that day, if those who questioned Jesus might have recognized their own sins and encouraged Jesus' hospitality because of their own need. A fruitless question; self-righteousness rarely sees its own sin.
How often do we today recognize our own sins and our need for Jesus? Even if I think I have relinquished myself to the Holy Spirit, I wonder if I have held something back? I am aware of my helplessness regarding sin, knowing, therefore, I am one of those sick people and I have a great need for Jesus!
I remember well a time when I was very sick with a virus pneumonia for weeks and it helped me to see the difference between needing help and not needing help. I needed doctors, plus, daily at home I needed someone to help me, guide me, be patient with me, pray with me and do kindnesses for me. As I daily began to feel better, I thanked God who came to me through others.
I do not want to be a person without a need for God! God is the greatest provider of help, patience, guidance and kindness! Thanks be to God! Today, I have reason to wonder how the months ahead will go for my sweet husband and myself, as we have both been diagnosed with Alzheimer Disease.
God, thank you for showing us our great need for You. No matter what our future holds, help us both to see that without You we can not make it through any new situation with peaceful resolve. We bless your Holy Name and give thanks to You for giving us Life in You! Amen.
Jo INMN
Jesus' response was to the Pharisees who had questioned Jesus about eating with sinners, as Jesus was prone to do. The Pharisees would have nothing to do with sinners and found this a great fault in Jesus. I wonder what might have happened in that day, if those who questioned Jesus might have recognized their own sins and encouraged Jesus' hospitality because of their own need. A fruitless question; self-righteousness rarely sees its own sin.
How often do we today recognize our own sins and our need for Jesus? Even if I think I have relinquished myself to the Holy Spirit, I wonder if I have held something back? I am aware of my helplessness regarding sin, knowing, therefore, I am one of those sick people and I have a great need for Jesus!
I remember well a time when I was very sick with a virus pneumonia for weeks and it helped me to see the difference between needing help and not needing help. I needed doctors, plus, daily at home I needed someone to help me, guide me, be patient with me, pray with me and do kindnesses for me. As I daily began to feel better, I thanked God who came to me through others.
I do not want to be a person without a need for God! God is the greatest provider of help, patience, guidance and kindness! Thanks be to God! Today, I have reason to wonder how the months ahead will go for my sweet husband and myself, as we have both been diagnosed with Alzheimer Disease.
God, thank you for showing us our great need for You. No matter what our future holds, help us both to see that without You we can not make it through any new situation with peaceful resolve. We bless your Holy Name and give thanks to You for giving us Life in You! Amen.
Jo INMN
Wednesday, September 21, 2016
LIGHT AND LOVE FOR THE CHOSEN
John 15:16 shows us Christ's love; "You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you to go and bear fruit, fruit that will last. Then the Father will give you whatever you ask in my name."
Jesus made the first choice--to love and to die for us, to invite us to live with Him forever. We make the next choice--to accept or reject His offer. Without His choice first, we would have no choice whatsoever; we would be lost.
How can we lose? Christ chose you and me! It's quite wonderful to be chosen, and not just chosen between one or two, but to be chosen among many! I can't forget, as a little kid, how hard it was to accept being the last to be chosen for the games children play. I was the smallest, and I was a girl and it hurt to wonder if I would be allowed on the team. But, for those of us who are not special to the many? We are special to Jesus.
Yet, I often ask myself, "Why me? Why would Jesus choose me?" I have no answer, but this: I have no special gift to give Him or "fruit" to pick for Him. I only know I need Him as I need air to breathe and I want to share with others a portion of the love that he has given to me. I love the light He has shown me when I have felt lost. And the correction He has given me when I have erred. He is the parent we all need, and the Most Holy Friend. He is the complete story of Love.
When I "grow up," I want to be just like Him! And I pray he will light the way and lead me to that day!
Lord God, keep me close to you that I might know your Son more and more. Help me to always remember that He made a choice to love me and to die for me. Help me to see His sacrifice so that I will be willing to give myself fully to love as He loved. Amen.
Jo INMN
Jesus made the first choice--to love and to die for us, to invite us to live with Him forever. We make the next choice--to accept or reject His offer. Without His choice first, we would have no choice whatsoever; we would be lost.
How can we lose? Christ chose you and me! It's quite wonderful to be chosen, and not just chosen between one or two, but to be chosen among many! I can't forget, as a little kid, how hard it was to accept being the last to be chosen for the games children play. I was the smallest, and I was a girl and it hurt to wonder if I would be allowed on the team. But, for those of us who are not special to the many? We are special to Jesus.
Yet, I often ask myself, "Why me? Why would Jesus choose me?" I have no answer, but this: I have no special gift to give Him or "fruit" to pick for Him. I only know I need Him as I need air to breathe and I want to share with others a portion of the love that he has given to me. I love the light He has shown me when I have felt lost. And the correction He has given me when I have erred. He is the parent we all need, and the Most Holy Friend. He is the complete story of Love.
When I "grow up," I want to be just like Him! And I pray he will light the way and lead me to that day!
Lord God, keep me close to you that I might know your Son more and more. Help me to always remember that He made a choice to love me and to die for me. Help me to see His sacrifice so that I will be willing to give myself fully to love as He loved. Amen.
Jo INMN
Tuesday, September 20, 2016
CARRYING MY CROSS
Luke 3:12 tells us, "Even the tax collectors that came to John to be baptized asked him, "Teacher, what shall we do?"
John had gone throughout the region around the Jordan river proclaiming a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sin. All who came to John asked him specifically what they should do, even though he had told them they must repent and turn from their sinful ways. John gave them examples: share your material goods, do not lie or cheat one another.
As humans we want to have specific directions, defined ideas of what should be done. Later, when Jesus came, he would say, "If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself, take up his cross and follow me." It sounds easier to give someone your coat, or be careful not to lie or cheat, than it would be to "take up your cross."
The main thrust is that if I am to be Jesus disciple, I must deny myself by taking myself out of the center of my concern and putting concern for others at the center. Jesus came to model a servant heart, giving His very life for me and for all. If I give my life to Jesus, I am carrying my cross.
Lord Jesus, I lay at your feet my desire, my demand, for my own needs first. Amen.
Jo INMN
John had gone throughout the region around the Jordan river proclaiming a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sin. All who came to John asked him specifically what they should do, even though he had told them they must repent and turn from their sinful ways. John gave them examples: share your material goods, do not lie or cheat one another.
As humans we want to have specific directions, defined ideas of what should be done. Later, when Jesus came, he would say, "If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself, take up his cross and follow me." It sounds easier to give someone your coat, or be careful not to lie or cheat, than it would be to "take up your cross."
The main thrust is that if I am to be Jesus disciple, I must deny myself by taking myself out of the center of my concern and putting concern for others at the center. Jesus came to model a servant heart, giving His very life for me and for all. If I give my life to Jesus, I am carrying my cross.
Lord Jesus, I lay at your feet my desire, my demand, for my own needs first. Amen.
Jo INMN
Monday, September 19, 2016
GOD'S PEOPLE--TRIUMPHANT!
In both the New and Old Testament, God makes a promise to His people. Ezek. 39:26 tells us, "Israel shall be restored and live securely in their land with no one to make them afraid.." And Rev. 20:4 and 5 tells us, "Those who had been killed for their testimony of Jesus and the Word of God came to life and reigned with Christ."
God's Word to Israel in Ezek. has not yet become truth as today the people live in fear of those who came to live in the land when God's people could not inhabit it. The peace has yet to come. Ezekiel had an "if" to the Old Testament victory. "If" the people love and obey God's commandments", therefore we have to assume that did not happen as God willed it. In the New Testament, John's Revelation tells us we are to love and proclaim Christ, the Son of God. This we must do, in order to claim the promise of reigning with Christ.
In our world today, each one of us face situations of fear and trial. Those who know Jesus understand that we are just passing through this earthly world. Today, we must focus with assurance on the eternal promise, that our words and our love of Christ, and proclaiming Him, give us our place with God.
If I feel afraid or overwhelmed, I must remember to sing praises to Jesus who has redeemed me forever. I want all the world to know this great gift and to accept the mission to proclaim the resurrected Christ.
Lord God, I praise you for the assurance of triumphant life in your Son, Jesus. Amen.
Jo INMN
God's Word to Israel in Ezek. has not yet become truth as today the people live in fear of those who came to live in the land when God's people could not inhabit it. The peace has yet to come. Ezekiel had an "if" to the Old Testament victory. "If" the people love and obey God's commandments", therefore we have to assume that did not happen as God willed it. In the New Testament, John's Revelation tells us we are to love and proclaim Christ, the Son of God. This we must do, in order to claim the promise of reigning with Christ.
In our world today, each one of us face situations of fear and trial. Those who know Jesus understand that we are just passing through this earthly world. Today, we must focus with assurance on the eternal promise, that our words and our love of Christ, and proclaiming Him, give us our place with God.
If I feel afraid or overwhelmed, I must remember to sing praises to Jesus who has redeemed me forever. I want all the world to know this great gift and to accept the mission to proclaim the resurrected Christ.
Lord God, I praise you for the assurance of triumphant life in your Son, Jesus. Amen.
Jo INMN
Saturday, September 17, 2016
CALLED CHOSEN AND FAITHFUL!
In /Rev, 17:14 we learn, "The powers of evil will make war on the Lamb, and the Lamb will conquer them, for He is Lord of Lords and King of Kings, and those with him are called: Chosen, and Faithful."
This vision of John's tells us that there will be conflict between those who follow Satan and those who follow Jesus, the Lamb. The followers of Jesus are called to Him. He said, "You did not choose me; I chose you." When Jesus calls, we always have the option to not answer His call and go on our wayward, sinful way.
What a comfort it is to me that Jesus calls me to be His! He is Lord of Lords and King of Kings, Redeemer, and Savior! The powers of Satan will always be present in this world, we can see it everywhere! But Jesus is already the victor! Satan does not win, or will he have power in my life unless I open the door and invite him in. And that's not going to happen! No! I choose to be faithful to the Lamb and I am going to pray consistently that Satan will be conquered throughout the world!
Are you with me, friends?
Lord Jesus, you have given us the path to life eternal in You. Help us to be consistently right with You, and awaken us to the power in this world that tries to conquer us. Keep us all in your care so we might become known to witness to those lives which have not known your perfection. For the sake of our Lord Jesus Christ we pray. Amen.
Jo INMN
This vision of John's tells us that there will be conflict between those who follow Satan and those who follow Jesus, the Lamb. The followers of Jesus are called to Him. He said, "You did not choose me; I chose you." When Jesus calls, we always have the option to not answer His call and go on our wayward, sinful way.
What a comfort it is to me that Jesus calls me to be His! He is Lord of Lords and King of Kings, Redeemer, and Savior! The powers of Satan will always be present in this world, we can see it everywhere! But Jesus is already the victor! Satan does not win, or will he have power in my life unless I open the door and invite him in. And that's not going to happen! No! I choose to be faithful to the Lamb and I am going to pray consistently that Satan will be conquered throughout the world!
Are you with me, friends?
Lord Jesus, you have given us the path to life eternal in You. Help us to be consistently right with You, and awaken us to the power in this world that tries to conquer us. Keep us all in your care so we might become known to witness to those lives which have not known your perfection. For the sake of our Lord Jesus Christ we pray. Amen.
Jo INMN
Friday, September 16, 2016
GOD REVEALS!
In Luke 2:34,35, we read what is believed about Jesus, "This child marks both the failure and the recovery of many in Israel, but the rejection will force honesty, as God reveals who they really are."
When Mary and Joseph took Jesus to the temple after he was born, an old man named Simeon blessed Jesus and told them that Jesus would be misunderstood and contradicted, but his life would mark both the rising and falling of the individuals who met Him, dependent upon how each one accepted or rejected Jesus.
It must have seemed a strange blessing to Mary and Joseph who thought they were raising the Messiah. Wouldn't the Messiah save all of Israel? Even if the world had understood in advance Simeon's prophecy, it would not have changed what must happen to Jesus. He was born to suffer and become a sacrifice for our sins--for my sins!
I have done some suffering. When things don't always turn out the way I hope, I suffer. It is very unsatisfying. Now that I am old, like Simeon, I am wiser and see that failure is just the beginning of another recovery. Through recovery, we progress.
Jesus' rejection forced--and still forces--honesty., and always reveals truth. His suffering revealed who He was. My suffering reveals who I am. Your suffering reveals who you are.
God, I shall not obsess over my mistakes, but I will keep positive and love those who exist wherever You take me. Amen.
Jo INMN
When Mary and Joseph took Jesus to the temple after he was born, an old man named Simeon blessed Jesus and told them that Jesus would be misunderstood and contradicted, but his life would mark both the rising and falling of the individuals who met Him, dependent upon how each one accepted or rejected Jesus.
It must have seemed a strange blessing to Mary and Joseph who thought they were raising the Messiah. Wouldn't the Messiah save all of Israel? Even if the world had understood in advance Simeon's prophecy, it would not have changed what must happen to Jesus. He was born to suffer and become a sacrifice for our sins--for my sins!
I have done some suffering. When things don't always turn out the way I hope, I suffer. It is very unsatisfying. Now that I am old, like Simeon, I am wiser and see that failure is just the beginning of another recovery. Through recovery, we progress.
Jesus' rejection forced--and still forces--honesty., and always reveals truth. His suffering revealed who He was. My suffering reveals who I am. Your suffering reveals who you are.
God, I shall not obsess over my mistakes, but I will keep positive and love those who exist wherever You take me. Amen.
Jo INMN
Thursday, September 15, 2016
CAN THE MIGHTY GIVE UP THEIR PRIDE?
Ezek. 32:19 says, "You think you're so high and mighty? Down! Take your place with the heathen in that unhallowed grave!"
Neither nation nor individual can get by with having pride. How dare we as the United States consider ourselves superior to any other nation? And yet we do. We are arrogant in thinking that our way is best. It surely is for us; we love our freedoms. But is it the best for all nations, at this time? Are we not arrogant to assume so? We think we are the best, strong and mighty, but perhaps our strengths are our weaknesses and our time for humility has begun. Yet we have the confidence that perhaps smells to others like arrogance.
Now, how about pride in an individual? How do I personally, handle the sin that toppled so many? Not perfectly, I'm afraid. Yet, I know from experience that pride isolates one person from another just as nations become isolated. Pride brings judgment and judgment creates barriers between people--you and me. It polarizes good and bad, strong and weak, right and wrong, for and against--the high and mighty against the lowly and meek. Yet the meek will inherit the earth, so says the Word of God.
God, let us as a nation and as individuals find truth in being meek. Help us to see and rid ourselves of the pride that separates. Amen.
Jo INMN
Neither nation nor individual can get by with having pride. How dare we as the United States consider ourselves superior to any other nation? And yet we do. We are arrogant in thinking that our way is best. It surely is for us; we love our freedoms. But is it the best for all nations, at this time? Are we not arrogant to assume so? We think we are the best, strong and mighty, but perhaps our strengths are our weaknesses and our time for humility has begun. Yet we have the confidence that perhaps smells to others like arrogance.
Now, how about pride in an individual? How do I personally, handle the sin that toppled so many? Not perfectly, I'm afraid. Yet, I know from experience that pride isolates one person from another just as nations become isolated. Pride brings judgment and judgment creates barriers between people--you and me. It polarizes good and bad, strong and weak, right and wrong, for and against--the high and mighty against the lowly and meek. Yet the meek will inherit the earth, so says the Word of God.
God, let us as a nation and as individuals find truth in being meek. Help us to see and rid ourselves of the pride that separates. Amen.
Jo INMN
Wednesday, September 14, 2016
WE ARE NOT GOD!
A friend told me, "Don't wave at the crowd too early!" Good advice. Ezekiel tells us, even more clearly, in chapter 28, "You say, "I am a god and I sit on the throne of a god.....But the Lord says, "You are not a god, though you are as wise as a god...Although by your wisdom and understanding you have gained wealth for yourself... your heart has grown proud...and you will be but a man, not a god, in the hands of those who kill you."
My friend made me laugh at myself, as what he said was the truth. But Ezekiel tells us that although we have been proud of our own accomplishments and wise choices, we must be reminded that we are not gods. The time of death will come when all we have built up in possessions in this world will be of no value.
Jesus came to tell us that things we accrue in life are all like soap-bubbles, beautiful to look at, but gone in an instant. Our only basis for a good life is to acknowledge Jesus as Lord. We need our God!
When I become prideful and self-satisfied, I know I'm setting myself up for a big fall! God knows He'll get my attention quickly that way!
Lord Jesus, keep me from making myself into a god and forgive my pride and arrogance. Help me to come to You daily just as I am, your servant. May it be so, Lord Jesus. Amen.
Jo INMN
My friend made me laugh at myself, as what he said was the truth. But Ezekiel tells us that although we have been proud of our own accomplishments and wise choices, we must be reminded that we are not gods. The time of death will come when all we have built up in possessions in this world will be of no value.
Jesus came to tell us that things we accrue in life are all like soap-bubbles, beautiful to look at, but gone in an instant. Our only basis for a good life is to acknowledge Jesus as Lord. We need our God!
When I become prideful and self-satisfied, I know I'm setting myself up for a big fall! God knows He'll get my attention quickly that way!
Lord Jesus, keep me from making myself into a god and forgive my pride and arrogance. Help me to come to You daily just as I am, your servant. May it be so, Lord Jesus. Amen.
Jo INMN
Tuesday, September 13, 2016
WOMEN--DON'T BE LEWD OR A PRUDE!
Ezek. 23:48, "So I will put an end to lewdness in the land, that all women may take warning and not imitate it.."
Would that it were so!! The human body is beautiful, but it was not designed for being commonly displayed, flashing to the world. Some use their bodies to make money which might bring great pride and vanity, but finally, worthlessness and sorrow. This saddens me.
Yet, I also am saddened by those who are required to keep themselves so covered that you can only see their eyes. They are the ones who ultimately suffer if a man looks too longingly at them. So, that's not the answer. Women should not have to be ashamed of how they look. Somewhere there must be a balance between extreme shame and extreme shamelessness. I think the word is modesty.
Lord, change the hearts of women around the world to embrace modesty, that our hearts' desire be, neither to over-attract nor to hide all that we are. Help us to dress to please you and honor you by our choices of dress, manner and words. And help us, then, to accept that some of us are doing our best to honor You as we know You and as we accept You, that we might better accept one another. Amen.
Women together! What a great concept!
Jo INMN
Would that it were so!! The human body is beautiful, but it was not designed for being commonly displayed, flashing to the world. Some use their bodies to make money which might bring great pride and vanity, but finally, worthlessness and sorrow. This saddens me.
Yet, I also am saddened by those who are required to keep themselves so covered that you can only see their eyes. They are the ones who ultimately suffer if a man looks too longingly at them. So, that's not the answer. Women should not have to be ashamed of how they look. Somewhere there must be a balance between extreme shame and extreme shamelessness. I think the word is modesty.
Lord, change the hearts of women around the world to embrace modesty, that our hearts' desire be, neither to over-attract nor to hide all that we are. Help us to dress to please you and honor you by our choices of dress, manner and words. And help us, then, to accept that some of us are doing our best to honor You as we know You and as we accept You, that we might better accept one another. Amen.
Women together! What a great concept!
Jo INMN
Monday, September 12, 2016
GOD USES THE BELIEVER's LOVE
In John 6..the entire chapter... God teaches us how to "be in Christ!" And when we are "in Christ",
God can do His work through us. Our belief in Him and our belief in what He can do through us determines our effectiveness in the world.
When Jesus looked up and saw a great crowd, He didn't gasp and wonder how He was going to feed them! He just knew He was to feed them, and He gathered up what food they had and began the task. And there was food left over!
This is how we are to act! A job needs to be done. Knowing with Christ's help, we can do it. We begin the work. When it is done, we know it was done with God's grace! If we do not believe it can be done, it won't get done. Believing it can be done with God's help, and trusting Him enough that we keep up the work, it will be finished, and on time!
Now, I am not particularly wise, but I believe the Bible gives us wisdom. So, I look to the Bible to teach me what I need to know, and these days so filled with trouble and so much hatred between different peoples, we need to look at the Bible for guidance. For the most part, the Bible teaches us how to love one another. And that is what I choose to believe..we must love one another. And whatever work we have chosen to do must be based on love, love for God and love for our fellow men.
Can we do this? We must. Can we begin the work? We have. We must trust the results will be good.
Lord God, May your world desire your love....desire love for You...and love for one another. This job needs to be done! Amen.
So friend, let this love begin with you and me.
Jo INMN
God can do His work through us. Our belief in Him and our belief in what He can do through us determines our effectiveness in the world.
When Jesus looked up and saw a great crowd, He didn't gasp and wonder how He was going to feed them! He just knew He was to feed them, and He gathered up what food they had and began the task. And there was food left over!
This is how we are to act! A job needs to be done. Knowing with Christ's help, we can do it. We begin the work. When it is done, we know it was done with God's grace! If we do not believe it can be done, it won't get done. Believing it can be done with God's help, and trusting Him enough that we keep up the work, it will be finished, and on time!
Now, I am not particularly wise, but I believe the Bible gives us wisdom. So, I look to the Bible to teach me what I need to know, and these days so filled with trouble and so much hatred between different peoples, we need to look at the Bible for guidance. For the most part, the Bible teaches us how to love one another. And that is what I choose to believe..we must love one another. And whatever work we have chosen to do must be based on love, love for God and love for our fellow men.
Can we do this? We must. Can we begin the work? We have. We must trust the results will be good.
Lord God, May your world desire your love....desire love for You...and love for one another. This job needs to be done! Amen.
So friend, let this love begin with you and me.
Jo INMN
Saturday, September 10, 2016
RECEIVING AND OFFERING LOVE
Oh, how I love John3:16! "For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life."
My study material of this verse tells us, "The entire gospel comes to a focus in this verse. God's love is not self-centered; it reaches out and draws others in. God sets the pattern of true love, the basis for all love relationships. When you love someone dearly, you are willing to give freely to the point of self-sacrifice. God paid dearly with the love of His Son, the highest price He could pay. Jesus accepted our punishment, paid the price for our sins and then offered us the new life that he had bought for us. When we share the gospel with others, our love must be like Jesus' love--willingly giving up our own comfort and security so that others might join us in receiving God's love."
Also, I must give up my own comfort and security by letting said words go which are normally hard for me to hear. Taking the words I want to use when I feel incensed by someone else's words and instead, taking those words into Jesus' hearing and hanging on to Jesus personally until I can say, "Let it go, Jo! This is not of importance!"
"Into your hands, O Lord, I give my hurt and distrust. Show me how to love this person right here and now!" Amen.
Jo INMN
My study material of this verse tells us, "The entire gospel comes to a focus in this verse. God's love is not self-centered; it reaches out and draws others in. God sets the pattern of true love, the basis for all love relationships. When you love someone dearly, you are willing to give freely to the point of self-sacrifice. God paid dearly with the love of His Son, the highest price He could pay. Jesus accepted our punishment, paid the price for our sins and then offered us the new life that he had bought for us. When we share the gospel with others, our love must be like Jesus' love--willingly giving up our own comfort and security so that others might join us in receiving God's love."
Also, I must give up my own comfort and security by letting said words go which are normally hard for me to hear. Taking the words I want to use when I feel incensed by someone else's words and instead, taking those words into Jesus' hearing and hanging on to Jesus personally until I can say, "Let it go, Jo! This is not of importance!"
"Into your hands, O Lord, I give my hurt and distrust. Show me how to love this person right here and now!" Amen.
Jo INMN
Friday, September 9, 2016
THE HOLY SPIRIT FIGHTS THE TONGUE!
The Book of James has been, for me, the hardest book in the Bible, and the most helpful! By accepting what it teaches, it is also most necessary. James 3:8 reads, "No man can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison."
Accepting that statement, no human being can control the tongue, then why bother trying? Even if we may not achieve perfect control of our tongues, we can still learn enough control, one would hope, to reduce the damage our words can do. Isn't it better to fight a fire than go around setting new ones?
But wait! We are not fighting the tongue's fire in our own strength! The Holy Spirit will give us increasing power to monitor and control what we say, so that when we are offended, the Spirit will remind us of God's love, and we won't react in a hateful manner. When we are criticized, the Spirit will heal the hurt, and we won't lash out at the other. I know this in my mind, but have not accepted this in my heart!
Lord Jesus, the world needs you so much and I am part of the world and part of the problem.. I am counting on you to help me tame my tongue! Your Spirit, I know, is in me to help me, but I need reminding that you are waiting to help me. I accept and understand that I am not perfect. I need your grace to be within me forever and the desire to seek that grace when I am feeling hurt. Lord, I want to seek you, first, and not seek a desire to fight the battle of tongues! Amen.
Tongue for sale....anybody?
Jo INMN
Accepting that statement, no human being can control the tongue, then why bother trying? Even if we may not achieve perfect control of our tongues, we can still learn enough control, one would hope, to reduce the damage our words can do. Isn't it better to fight a fire than go around setting new ones?
But wait! We are not fighting the tongue's fire in our own strength! The Holy Spirit will give us increasing power to monitor and control what we say, so that when we are offended, the Spirit will remind us of God's love, and we won't react in a hateful manner. When we are criticized, the Spirit will heal the hurt, and we won't lash out at the other. I know this in my mind, but have not accepted this in my heart!
Lord Jesus, the world needs you so much and I am part of the world and part of the problem.. I am counting on you to help me tame my tongue! Your Spirit, I know, is in me to help me, but I need reminding that you are waiting to help me. I accept and understand that I am not perfect. I need your grace to be within me forever and the desire to seek that grace when I am feeling hurt. Lord, I want to seek you, first, and not seek a desire to fight the battle of tongues! Amen.
Tongue for sale....anybody?
Jo INMN
Thursday, September 8, 2016
LOVE YOUR NEGHBOR AS YOURSELF
Today we re going to use some verses in Isaiah and James, two of the most teaching-est books in our Bible. Isaiah 32:9-10 tells us "You women who are so complacent, rise up and listen to me...hear what I have to say."
It was a time when the people turned their backs on God and concentrated on their own pleasures,
But to all who sit back in their thoughtless complacency today, enjoying (our lives), being lulled into thinking all is well, we abandon God's purpose for our lives. We abandon His help. So, what would Christ have us do?
James 2:9-9 tell us, "If you really keep the royal law found in Scripture, (Lev. 19:18) "Love your neighbor as yourself!" you are doing right. Speak and act as those who are going to be judged by the law that gives freedom because judgment without mercy will be shown to anyone who has not been merciful. Mercy triumphs over judgment!"
These days are the days when hundreds of immigrants, mostly children, perhaps, will be waiting to come to the United States. People around the world hunger for the freedom and safety found here. Many in our country are irate, wanting to safeguard the life our country offers, feeling they themselves do not yet have what they expected to have. Some are even dangerous!
But, how can we not try to help? Are we not dedicated, sworn Christians? So what is the answer? What would Jesus do? And if we don't do that, what is God going to say about us? There is not an easy answer. There is only one way to go, and it may develop into lots of problems. Yet, with us will be a great problem solver, the Lord of the Universe!
Lord, we pray for direction and big hearts! Help us to do what you would have us do. Amen.
"As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord!"
Jo INMN
It was a time when the people turned their backs on God and concentrated on their own pleasures,
But to all who sit back in their thoughtless complacency today, enjoying (our lives), being lulled into thinking all is well, we abandon God's purpose for our lives. We abandon His help. So, what would Christ have us do?
James 2:9-9 tell us, "If you really keep the royal law found in Scripture, (Lev. 19:18) "Love your neighbor as yourself!" you are doing right. Speak and act as those who are going to be judged by the law that gives freedom because judgment without mercy will be shown to anyone who has not been merciful. Mercy triumphs over judgment!"
These days are the days when hundreds of immigrants, mostly children, perhaps, will be waiting to come to the United States. People around the world hunger for the freedom and safety found here. Many in our country are irate, wanting to safeguard the life our country offers, feeling they themselves do not yet have what they expected to have. Some are even dangerous!
But, how can we not try to help? Are we not dedicated, sworn Christians? So what is the answer? What would Jesus do? And if we don't do that, what is God going to say about us? There is not an easy answer. There is only one way to go, and it may develop into lots of problems. Yet, with us will be a great problem solver, the Lord of the Universe!
Lord, we pray for direction and big hearts! Help us to do what you would have us do. Amen.
"As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord!"
Jo INMN
Wednesday, September 7, 2016
TRIALS CAN BRING JOY!
James 1:2-4 tells us, "Consider it joy whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything."
These words are true. But who among us wouldn't rather sit down in the midst of a trial and weep? The trials of life bring us the hardest moments. Yet, the hardest moments truly do bring us strength and purpose. Many lives around us have shown this to be true.
How can we profit from trials? Do not pretend to be happy, but keep a positive outlook. Trials will produce ultimate good. James tells us to turn our hardships into times of learning. Tough times can teach us perseverance. See Rom.2:7, 5:3-5, 8:24 and 25, 2 Cor.6:3-7, 2 Pet.1:2-9. "Thank God for promising to be with you in tough times. Ask Him to help you solve your problems or to give you strength to endure them. Then, be patient. God will not leave you alone with your problems; He will stay close and help you grow." (From the Study portion of my Bible)
No matter what may come, we must persevere. James 1:12 says, "Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial because when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love Him." So, we must love Him and stay faithful, no matter what.
I have seen perseverance work. I am a believer in loving Him and staying faithful. Those in our own family persevered under hardship for over a year and at year's end, faithfulness won the day. I am a true believer in staying faithful, no matter what comes our way. I will be tested, I know. And He will see me through the testing.
Lord Jesus, We pray this prayer for those who are facing trials. May they persevere in knowing you are the gift-giver and they will receive that which will keep them close to you, a positive attitude. Thank you, Lord, for this teaching. Bless them with your crown of life. Amen.
Jo INMN
These words are true. But who among us wouldn't rather sit down in the midst of a trial and weep? The trials of life bring us the hardest moments. Yet, the hardest moments truly do bring us strength and purpose. Many lives around us have shown this to be true.
How can we profit from trials? Do not pretend to be happy, but keep a positive outlook. Trials will produce ultimate good. James tells us to turn our hardships into times of learning. Tough times can teach us perseverance. See Rom.2:7, 5:3-5, 8:24 and 25, 2 Cor.6:3-7, 2 Pet.1:2-9. "Thank God for promising to be with you in tough times. Ask Him to help you solve your problems or to give you strength to endure them. Then, be patient. God will not leave you alone with your problems; He will stay close and help you grow." (From the Study portion of my Bible)
No matter what may come, we must persevere. James 1:12 says, "Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial because when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love Him." So, we must love Him and stay faithful, no matter what.
I have seen perseverance work. I am a believer in loving Him and staying faithful. Those in our own family persevered under hardship for over a year and at year's end, faithfulness won the day. I am a true believer in staying faithful, no matter what comes our way. I will be tested, I know. And He will see me through the testing.
Lord Jesus, We pray this prayer for those who are facing trials. May they persevere in knowing you are the gift-giver and they will receive that which will keep them close to you, a positive attitude. Thank you, Lord, for this teaching. Bless them with your crown of life. Amen.
Jo INMN
Tuesday, September 6, 2016
JUSTICE AND LOVE
In reading Hos. 14:9 let us study, "God's concern for JUSTICE requires faithfulness, and LOVE requires forgiveness."
God is a Just God! And His requirement for us is to be faithful to Him, no matter what. This is the test! Whatever we do or think, our first step must be to answer this question, "Is this act revealing God's worth?" God is not in the business of measuring our worth; He is interested in revealing His worth! God is a Just God!
If we forget that God loves us and feel our sins are hopeless, we can also err by forgetting He will be angry when we sin, thinking He will continue to accept us no matter how we act. Forgiveness is key! When God forgives He judges the sin but shows mercy to the sinner. We must not be afraid to come to God for a clean slate and a renewed life. Love requires forgiveness.
"Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need." ( Heb. 4:16) We can be encouraged if we know Jesus will help us to obey as he obeyed.. perfectly.. no matter how difficult obedience may seem to be. We must remember to be faithful for the sake of justice and to be forgiving for the sake of love.
Thank you, Lord, for standing by us. We want to remember this lesson, always. Amen.
Jo INMN
God is a Just God! And His requirement for us is to be faithful to Him, no matter what. This is the test! Whatever we do or think, our first step must be to answer this question, "Is this act revealing God's worth?" God is not in the business of measuring our worth; He is interested in revealing His worth! God is a Just God!
If we forget that God loves us and feel our sins are hopeless, we can also err by forgetting He will be angry when we sin, thinking He will continue to accept us no matter how we act. Forgiveness is key! When God forgives He judges the sin but shows mercy to the sinner. We must not be afraid to come to God for a clean slate and a renewed life. Love requires forgiveness.
"Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need." ( Heb. 4:16) We can be encouraged if we know Jesus will help us to obey as he obeyed.. perfectly.. no matter how difficult obedience may seem to be. We must remember to be faithful for the sake of justice and to be forgiving for the sake of love.
Thank you, Lord, for standing by us. We want to remember this lesson, always. Amen.
Jo INMN
Monday, September 5, 2016
CHRIST FOREVERMORE!
Hear what is said in Hebrews 1:3. "The Son is the radiance of God's glory and the exact representation of His being, sustaining all things by His powerful Word. After He had provided purification for sins, He sat down at the right hand of the Majesty in heaven....superior to the angels....(by station and by name.)" And the Study tells us, "He is God Himself, eternal, the full revelation of God. There is no clearer view of God than Jesus Christ-- a complete expression of God in a human body."
Jesus brought power into the existence of the universe as well as bringing the power of forgiveness of our sins. No sin is too big for the ruler of the Universe to handle. Christ's sacrifice was final; and He sat down!
Jesus is God; He alone deserves our worship. Heb. 1:11,12--"Christ is our only security in a changing world. (We are) like a garment that wears out . But Christ will remain the same and His years will never end."
These words capture the security given to those who worship Jesus Christ, who was the beginning and who will never end. Praise You, forever, Lord Jesus!
Jo INMN
Jesus brought power into the existence of the universe as well as bringing the power of forgiveness of our sins. No sin is too big for the ruler of the Universe to handle. Christ's sacrifice was final; and He sat down!
Jesus is God; He alone deserves our worship. Heb. 1:11,12--"Christ is our only security in a changing world. (We are) like a garment that wears out . But Christ will remain the same and His years will never end."
These words capture the security given to those who worship Jesus Christ, who was the beginning and who will never end. Praise You, forever, Lord Jesus!
Jo INMN
Saturday, September 3, 2016
TROUBLE WITH A CAPITAL 'T"
Deut. 1:2 says, "Don't do it--I'm not with you in this!" These words are just a part of a statement in Moses' sermon to the people of Israel. In them, God is telling Moses what He wants the people to hear. "Don't go up to fight the Amorites; I will not protect you!"
Before this, Moses was the man of the day! Everything coming next, though, was given to Joshua and Caleb to do. Moses would not get to see the Promised Land having taken credit as a hero when he brought the people water from the rock at Meribah. (The story in Numbers 27:12-14 and Exodus 1:7)
God's warning to Moses must have brought Moses a sadness, reminding him of his human response of wanting to be the hero as he hit the rock with his staff to bring forth the blessed water to the complaining Israelites. I must confess, my reaction to Moses situation probably would have been the same as Moses. Being constantly the go-between for my beloved God and the Israelites who constantly complained and grumbled, would have been hard. The situation would certainly have made me weary and angry!
But, Lord, you have not approached me with anything quite that troublesome. Thankfully, my bouts with trouble, although being difficult for me, taught me more than I might ever otherwise have learned without it!
Please keep me in your service, with or without trouble. Amen.
Jo INMN
Friday, September 2, 2016
THE STAMP OF AUTHORITY
Mark 11:28 asks, "Who authorized you to speak and act like this?"
The high priests, religion scholars, and leaders came up to Jesus and demanded that He show them His credentials as they wondered who had given Him the authority to speak to them like He did.
Jesus refused to answer until they answered this question, "Who authorized John's baptism?" As John was a favorite of the people, the leaders were afraid to say, "Heaven," and refused to answer Jesus' question.
However, Believers knew who authorized Jesus, and still know! It was Heaven and the Father of Christ and all of us who follow after Christ!
Who, then, authorizes any of God's people to speak of our Lord Jesus? The Holy Spirit does and will. It is our responsibility, though, to be sure we are covered in Christ's Spirit ourselves that our own individual thoughts and desires are totally eradicated and our spirits are one with His. Thus, people may hear Christ in us, not us speaking about Christ.
Lord Jesus, I pray that your Spirit will so deeply and completely cover my own spirit that people will only hear and see You--and listen! AMEN.
Jo INMN
The high priests, religion scholars, and leaders came up to Jesus and demanded that He show them His credentials as they wondered who had given Him the authority to speak to them like He did.
Jesus refused to answer until they answered this question, "Who authorized John's baptism?" As John was a favorite of the people, the leaders were afraid to say, "Heaven," and refused to answer Jesus' question.
However, Believers knew who authorized Jesus, and still know! It was Heaven and the Father of Christ and all of us who follow after Christ!
Who, then, authorizes any of God's people to speak of our Lord Jesus? The Holy Spirit does and will. It is our responsibility, though, to be sure we are covered in Christ's Spirit ourselves that our own individual thoughts and desires are totally eradicated and our spirits are one with His. Thus, people may hear Christ in us, not us speaking about Christ.
Lord Jesus, I pray that your Spirit will so deeply and completely cover my own spirit that people will only hear and see You--and listen! AMEN.
Jo INMN
Thursday, September 1, 2016
THE NEED FOR JUSTICE
In Ezek. 16:49 and 50, we read, "Judah/Jerusalem and her daughters had pride, excess of food, and prosperous ease but did not aid the poor and needy. They were haughty and did abominable things," said the Lord."
The Word of God given to the prophet Ezekiel emphasizes the abomination of those who go about in pride and selfishness and having excess, ignore the needs of those who have little or nothing. God considers justice a central condition of following Him, because in God's eyes we are all poor, needy, forsaken, and alone. He wants us to reach out and come to the aid of others as He has rescued us.
If I see others in need and do nothing about it, I cut myself off from a relationship with God. He has no patience with me when I consider myself before others. This world is filled with injustice, and I must become aware of it, and do something about it.
Lord, open my heart to see the need for justice in those you bring to my attention. Amen.
And may my words invite others to feel the same say, for the sake of our loving God.
Jo INMN
The Word of God given to the prophet Ezekiel emphasizes the abomination of those who go about in pride and selfishness and having excess, ignore the needs of those who have little or nothing. God considers justice a central condition of following Him, because in God's eyes we are all poor, needy, forsaken, and alone. He wants us to reach out and come to the aid of others as He has rescued us.
If I see others in need and do nothing about it, I cut myself off from a relationship with God. He has no patience with me when I consider myself before others. This world is filled with injustice, and I must become aware of it, and do something about it.
Lord, open my heart to see the need for justice in those you bring to my attention. Amen.
And may my words invite others to feel the same say, for the sake of our loving God.
Jo INMN
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