Your Biggest Mistake!

Matthew 6:33 “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.”

The Ken Bombard translation simply says this: “If you put God FIRST in all things, He will take care of the rest!” Our priorities are out of whack! We have it all backwards. We put every thing and everyone else first, and give Him our leftovers. Our days begin by being instantly thrust into the affairs of the world, without refueling or refreshing in the Presence of God. (Acts 3:19) We struggle in everything we do throughout the day and we wind up at the end of the day thoroughly exhausted and give Him a simple “Goodnight Lord.”

“BUT…” we say. “I have to take care of my family and that takes time!” Let me share a Kingdom secret with you right now! WHATEVER YOU MANUFACTURE, YOU MUST MAINTAIN! That includes the care, provision, protection, nurture and growth of your family. God desires to provide for your every need. Philippians 4:19 “…my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.” If we will let Him, that will even include our families. Remember this…WHATEVER GOD MANUFACTURES, HE WILL MAINTAIN! According to Matthew 6:33 quoted above….IF I put Him and His Kingdom work first in my life….HE will take care of my family!

May I add, that He is capable of doing a better job than us! If you rearrange your priorities, and place God where He belongs in your life, then all the time you spend at the Doctor’s office, the Principle’s office, the Counselor’s office, etc., will be eliminated or greatly reduced. It’s hard to row a boat upstream without an oar. Life flows upstream and God is not just our oar, He is our engine and He wants to be our helmsman, as well! Do you also know that it doesn’t hurt your children, to bring them along when you are ministering to others. It gives them a chance to see the Love and the Spirit of God in action!

Last weekend, a group of men helped out a family that needed some special assistance around the yard and their house. One of the men brought his young daughter along and SHE helped the family clean inside along with the only other lady who showed up. Oh My…were they blessed! They were blessed; the young lady learned that blessing others is a greater blessing to ourselves, AND she will be blessed by God for blessing them! What a great deal!

In the same manner please don’t go to work or out into the world without first being with God. If you’re a night person, then spend time with Him in His Word and in conversation (two way prayer) at night, when you are strongest. If you’re a morning person then get up earlier and spend a few precious moments with the One Who loves you, and desires to empower you and give you Godly wisdom for whatever will come your way in the day ahead!

Maybe it’s time to re-evaluate our life priorities. Would you stop for a moment right now and ask Him, “Lord, what are the areas of my life that are out of whack? What do I need to evaluate? What do you wish to change in my life?” If you will consider this challenge, bring a pen and paper when you do ask. As you hear and obey your life will be influenced by Godly Wisdom and empowered by Divine ability! Doesn’t THAT sound refreshing?

If you won’t take the time, what is it that you’re afraid of? The Truth!

GOD IS IN COVENANT WITH ME!

Luke 22:20 “…This cup is the new covenant in my blood, which is shed for you.”

You are in Covenant with God! Better yet, God is in Covenant with you! When you are in a personal relationship with Almighty God through faith in Jesus’ sacrifice on Calvary’s Cross and His subsequent Resurrection, you have been entered into a legal binding agreement with Him.

A covenant is defined as a binding agreement or contract in writing under seal, for the performance of a specified action. The Covenant which God Himself has entered into with you, has been signed, sealed and ratified by the precious Blood of Jesus. There can be no more powerful seal than the Blood of Jesus! We are told in Leviticus 17:14 “…the life of all flesh is in the blood…” When you break it down, this simply means that the Covenant which God has contracted with you is backed up with the very LIFE OF GOD which is in the Blood of Jesus!

The good news today is that God is in Covenant with you! He is in a legally binding Contract, ordered by the Supreme Court of the Universe (Himself), because the Blood of Jesus has been shed for “YOU!”

OK… God has entered into an agreement with me, but what exactly does that mean for me? There are some very unique characteristics that are involved in Biblical Covenants. The one I want you to see today is what I call the “Joint Heir” stipulation. Romans 8:16-17 “The Spirit itself bears witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God: And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ…”

In Biblical times when two families or tribes entered into a covenant, they each brought unique giftings and talents into the relationship. For example the Jones family had wealth, wisdom, creative imagination, and a talent for conducting wise business practices. The Smith family was know for their brute strength, and had a reputation as fierce warriors. They were men and women who could work the land and produce the most abundant harvest on the smallest piece of land.

When they entered into Covenant, they each pledged to one another everything they had and all the talents each had to offer. Now as the Smith-Jones tribe, it appeared that they were lacking no good thing. The wealth of the Jones family now flowed into the Smith family and when anyone would arise against the Jones family, the warriors from the Smith clan would rise up to defend the Joneses! They became joint-heirs, meaning that they both owned/shared everything both families possessed one hundred percent. There was no holding back on anything they had!

NOW PAY VERY CLOSE ATTENTION: Since God initiated a Covenant agreement with you; HE HOLDS BACK NOTHING! Now read these Covenant Words written to you! Romans 8:31-32 “What can we say about such wonderful things as these? If God is for us, who can ever be against us? Since God did not spare even his own Son but gave him up for us all, won’t God, who gave us Christ, also give us everything else?

God has given you everything…His Name..His Son…His Blood…His Angels…His Promises… His Ability…His Power…His Authority..His Spirit within us…His Righteousness…His Healing...His Provision…His Protection…His Wisdom…His Direction…His Deliverance… His Rest…His Care…His Security…His Reward…His Refreshment…His Presence…His Restoration… and the List goes on endlessly! Can you even name one thing that God has withheld from you? Of course you can't!

God did not spare His most prized possession…His Son. He gave us Jesus so that He could enter Himself into a legally binding Eternal Covenant with us, thereby offering US everything He is and everything He has! Jesus “…has been given a ministry that is far superior to the ministry of those who serve under the old laws, for he is the one who guarantees for us a better covenant with God, based on better promises.” Hebrews 8:6

You would do well to daily rehearse the terms of your Covenant with God. David did! (Psalm 103 ) The whole deal is not about what you can bring to the table of Covenant, ITS ABOUT WHAT GOD HAS BROUGHT INTO THE COVENANT RELATIONSHIP!

NOW ACCEPT THE TERMS AND LIVE THE LIFE HE EXPECTS! (John 10:10)

WATER WALKING

Matthew 14:24-27 “…the disciples were in trouble far away from land, for a strong wind had risen, and they were fighting heavy waves. About three o’clock in the morning Jesus came to them, walking on the water….But Jesus spoke to them at once. “It’s all right,” he said. “I am here! Don’t be afraid.”

One thing I know for sure, is that whenever I am caught up in one of life’s storms, I want to make sure my eyes are on Jesus and that I am close enough to get a good look at Him! The disciples never expected Jesus to handle the storm in this manner. It appears that they didn’t expect him at all, much less come walking across the water! Matthew 14:26 “…when the disciples saw him walking on the sea, they were troubled, saying, It is a spirit; and they cried out for fear.”

We expect Him to show up at Church, or praise and worship; perhaps in our own private time with him, but in the middle of a storm? We never expect to see Him in the middle of marital stress, wayward children, financial problems, or sickness and disease. It’s extremely important for us to remain close to Jesus through fellowship with Him and obedience to His commands and promptings. Let me make it simple for all of us. The closer we stay to Him, the easier it is to take our eyes off the storm and to clearly focus on Jesus, the One Who stills the most violent storms.

Peter took his eyes off of the One who commands peace to the storms of life, or at the very least , He commands peace to us in the midst of the storm! Matthew 14:30 “But when he saw that the wind was boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink he cried out, saying, “Lord, save me!”

Let these words of Jesus resound in your inner being! “It’s all right,” he said. “I am here! Don’t be afraid.” Perhaps the main theme of this passage is where we are to look in the middle of the storms of life. If you are giving the storm more attention than the One who calms them, then you too like Peter, will be overwhelmed with the strength of the storm! Read these words very carefully!

Psalm 121: 2-8 “My help comes from the LORD, who made the heavens and the earth! He will not let you stumble and fall; the one who watches over you will not sleep…The LORD himself watches over you! The LORD stands beside you as your protective shade…The LORD keeps you from all evil and preserves your life. The LORD keeps watch over you as you come and go, both now and forever.” David knew!

Remember that storms often cause us to embark on expeditions we would never have ventured into without the storm. For a few brief moments Peter was thrust into the midst of the miraculous! “So Peter went over the side of the boat and walked on the water toward Jesus.” Matthew 14:29 Imagine his conversations after they reached the other side. How many times do you believe that Peter rehearsed that experience? Perhaps he even embellished the scenario each time he repeated the event! In the midst of his personal storm, He was graced by God to experience the Supernatural movement of the Hand of God!

Think back over the storms in your life. Reflect on the Goodness and faithfulness of God! Command your mind to rehearse the Goodness of God like David. Psalm 103:2-5 “Bless the Lord, O my soul, And forget not all His benefits: Who forgives all your iniquities, Who heals all your diseases, Who redeems your life from destruction, Who crowns you with lovingkindness and tender mercies, Who satisfies your mouth with good things, So that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s.”

The most efficient way to prepare for a storm in life is….

1) Know that they will come. It happens to everyone!
2) Stay connected in intimate fellowship with Jesus (Before the storm approaches) through loving obedience.
3) Keep your eyes fixed on Him, He will guide you through the storm.
4) Know Him as your Help in the Time of trouble! (Psalm 27:5)
5) Be filled with anticipation and expectancy. Listen for His Word as He directs your path in the middle of the tempest. (Proverbs 3:5-6)
6) Do whatever He tells you when He tells you.
7) Focus on His promise! “It’s all right,” he said. “I am here! Don’t be afraid.”

Suddenly my heart finds peace, no matter what life throws at me! I am no longer afraid and I know it will be alright! Remember, some of Jesus' greatest moments have come in the midst of the storm! Now that I think of it. so have mine!

CHECK ME OUT LORD!

Psalm 139:23-24 “Search me O God, and know my heart; test me and know my thoughts. Point out anything in me that offends you, and lead me along the path of everlasting life.”

One of my Spiritual mentors taught me from the beginning, a very simple secret to walking closely with God. He taught me always to be honest with God and also to always let God be honest with me. I never had a problem with being honest with God because I knew that He already knew all about me. Job 21:27 “Behold, I know your thoughts…” Psalm 94:11 “The LORD knows the thoughts of man…” It was easy for me to be honest with Him because He was the one that I could not fool. Knowing that, it was easy for me to bare my soul, openly share my feelings with Him, and expose my weaknesses, inabilities and insufficiencies.

This was a safe place to be, because I knew He cared for me even when I was a miserable sinner, desperately seeking satisfaction everywhere else but the source. Romans 5:8 “But God commends his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners Christ died for us.” If you have never realized this fact, it’s time to have a heart to heart conversation with the One Who formed you and called you into existence. He desires for you to unload your burdens, trials and tribulations on Him! His heart calls out to yours, “Come unto me, all you that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me… and you shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30

His heart speaks that if we simply come to Him, He will give us rest. In addition, if we hitch (yoke) ourselves to Him and His Promises, we will find rest for our souls as well. (Our minds, emotions, imaginations, intellect, etc.) Today spend time with him and see His love and peace flowing into your being.

That part of the deal is pretty easy; but now it’s time to get on with the difficult part. For me, it was not easy to allow God to be honest with me, because then the enemy of my soul would always trick me into thinking that God was harping on all of my imperfections. I would thank Him, Praise Him, and Worship into His Presence and every time I would stop to hear His response and allow Him to speak into my life, He would tell me of His great love, care and desire to provide for me. I could listen to that all day long, but then He wanted to get even more honest and would focus my attention on an area of my life that needed cleaning up.

Precisely, at that point in the conversation, I would begin to shout Him down with praise or something like it. When he started to get real with me about me, I did not want to hear it! When I was young, I was taught that God was simply a matter of “You can’t do this. You can’t do that. You won’t do this and you won’t do that. You don’t do this and you don’t do that.” No more commandments from anyone, even God! Then I experienced a breakthrough! I discovered that His Commandments were not a burden; BUT A BREAKTHROUGH! 1John 5:3 “For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments: and his commandments are not grievous.”

I discovered that in these quiet times when I allowed Him to speak to me, my faith came alive. (Romans 10:17) In these times of quiet, He would reveal Himself and His ways to me.(Psalm 46:10) His still small voice would speak to me and inject His Life into the darkest of my circumstances. His Word sprung forth in healing for my body and soul in these precious moments when I listened. (Proverbs 4:20-22) The directives, corrections and orchestrations He gave me in those quiet times literally revolutionized my life. (Proverbs 3:6, Matthew 4:4)

Go ahead Lord, Have your way! “Point out anything in me that offends you, and lead me along the path of everlasting life.” Psalm 139:24 When He points out that which offends Him, He is seeking only your good. His desire is that you would respond in loving obedience and be led along the “path of everlasting life.”

It is no coincidence that you have two ears and only one mouth. You should listen to the Voice of God twice as much as you speak to Him! How about right now! Listen to Him and allow Him to be honest with you! It’s for your own good! Thanks Pastor Anthony Spero for one of the many times you’ve been used by the Holy Spirit to change my life!

HELP IS IN THE WAY!

2 Corinthians 6:1-2 “As God’s partners, we beg you not to reject this marvelous message of God’s great kindness. For God says, “At just the right time, I heard you. On the day of salvation, I helped you. Indeed, God is ready to help you right now. Today is the day of salvation.”

So many people think that God is too busy ruling the affairs of the Universe to be involved in our daily situations, circumstances, trials and troubles. Don’t be fooled by this kind of thinking. It doesn’t take much of God’s attention or energy to rule the affairs of the Universe.

The Bible states that “The Son reflects God’s own glory, and everything about him represents God exactly. He sustains the universe by the mighty power of his command.” Hebrews 1:3 The entire Universe is being ruled by the Power of the words God has spoken. By each command He has given, the order of all things from galaxies to governments has been established and continues to govern their course unless God speaks a different command. That means that God has plenty of Himself (Time and Ability) left to be personally involved in your life!

2 Corinthians tells us that there is a “marvelous message of God’s great kindness” and that “God is ready to help you right now. TODAY is the day of salvation.” If you need help right now…TODAY then discover what the Bible has to say…

1) God is interested in you and the life you are living. 1Peter 5:7 “Cast all your cares upon him; for he cares for you.” Romans 5:8 “God commends his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. John 10:10 “…I have come that you may have life, and that you may have it more abundantly.”

2) God is interested in Today. The Past is history and Tomorrow will never arrive! Jesus taught us to pray “Give us this day our daily bread.” He told us “Sufficient for the day are the evils thereof.” The psalmist declares that “each and every morning His tender mercies and compassions are renewed” and that “daily He loads us down with His benefits.”

3) Recognize that even though matters have been handled by God, the manifestations may take time to be seen. In Mark chapter 11 we see the story of the fig tree that Jesus commanded to be fruitless. It wasn’t until the next day when they passed by again, that the disciples saw the manifestation of His command. Even though the leaves had not fallen off the first day, the roots of the tree were dead immediately upon His command.

4) Believe that He will rescue you today! Mark 9:23 “ Jesus said unto him, If you can believe, all things are possible to him that believes.”

5) Walk in loving obedience with God. John 14:21 “He that has my commandments, and keeps them…I will love him, and will manifest myself to him.”

6) Confess your own inability and boast of His deliverance. 2 Corinthians 12:9 “And He said unto me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you: for My strength is made perfect in weakness.’ Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.” Paul, by the inspiration of the Holy Spirit says when we do, the Power of Christ will be our portion.

7) Give God the praise. Psalm 22:3 “You are holy, O you Who inhabits the praises of Israel.” When you praise Him, He shows up on the scene. When He shows up on the scene, He brings forth His Salvation.

If you need His help today…pursue Him and discover Who He is. Tug on His heart strings today and watch His mercy flow toward you! You are His Child! He is your Father, and He wants to rescue you today!

CALVARY'S INCREDIBLE EXCHANGE

Galatians 3:13 “…Christ has rescued us from the curse pronounced by the law. When he was hung on the cross, he took upon himself the curse for our wrongdoing. For it is written in the Scriptures, “Cursed is everyone who is hung on a tree.”

Just about any Christian can recount to you the story at Calvary’s Cross. Jesus, the Son of God crucified between two thieves. Both God and man view the scene as the perfect, unblemished Lamb of God surrounded by two men covered in the filth and horror of sin. But here is where the similarities end. Whereas man sees the horror of their bloodied bodies, God grieves over the darkness surrounding their hearts. The Father weeps over the conditions of their souls. These two thieves were headed towards hell because of unresolved sin in their lives.

They displayed hostility, resistance and defiance toward God even in their final moments. But hanging between them is a totally righteous man without sin. Hebrews 4:15 “For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin.” One of the thieves reads the sign “King of the Jews”. He hears Jesus asking forgiveness for those who are killing Him. There is something about Jesus that persuades the thief that he hangs in the presence of a real King.

The other thief lashes out in his pain mockingly. “Aren’t you the Christ? Then save yourself and us.” Luke 23:39 The hardness of his heart is disturbing.

In the midst of all the people who abandoned Jesus, (Peter and the Disciples) the accusations of the Jews, and the cruel treatment rendered by the Roman soldiers, someone at last speaks out to stand up for Jesus. Luke 23:40-41 “…the other criminal protested. “Don’t you even fear God when you are dying? We deserve to die for our evil deeds, but this man hasn’t done one thing wrong.” Jesus in His agony responded with these words. “Today you will be with Me in Paradise. This is a solemn promise.” All of heaven was frozen in a moment of time. This was not right. How could a miserable, dark hearted thief possibly go to Heaven?

Suddenly, in response to the voice of Jesus all of the darkness, misery and sin began to lift off of this thief and worked it’s way over until it came to rest on Jesus. Simultaneously, the Righteousness of God began to lift off of Jesus and covers the dying thief. His unclean garments are replaced by a robe of Righteousness and his soul commences to shine with the presence of the Holy Spirit. All of his sins are forgiven and wiped from God’s remembrance. Hebrews 8:12 “For I will be merciful to their unrighteousness, and their sins and their iniquities will I remember no more.”

God’s plan began to unfold before all of heaven and earth. Paul tells us in 1 Corinthians 2:8 that no one knew, even the powers of darkness, His Master Plan. “…none of the princes of this world knew: for had they known it, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory.” Being a Just God, His only choice when He sees sin is either to punish the sin or to pay the price on His own. Galatians 3:13 “…Christ has rescued us from the curse pronounced by the law. When he was hung on the cross, he took upon himself the curse for our wrongdoing. For it is written in the Scriptures, “Cursed is everyone who is hung on a tree.”

God loves us so much that “…He gave his only begotten Son, that whoever believes in him will not perish, but have everlasting life.” John 3:16

“It was our weakness He carried. It was our sorrows that weighed Him down. We thought His troubles were a punishment from God for His own sins. But He was wounded and crushed for our sins. He was beaten that we might have peace. He was whipped and we were healed.” Isaiah 53:4-5

Like the thief at Calvary; when no one is standing up for Jesus; when it’s not popular to proclaim His Lordship or even to speak His Name; when the world is doing all it can to stamp out the event at Calvary’s Cross; let’s commit this day to tell others of His goodness, His mercy and grace.

I will not be silent! I will live a Holy life by His ability within! I will allow His Holy Spirit to flow through my life! I will pray openly, boldly and unashamedly! I will testify of what He has done for me! The more they mock, the bolder I’ll become! The tougher it gets, the brighter I’ll shine! I will exert my God given authority over demonic influences! I will heal the sick! I will praise Him openly! I will respond in loving obedience! I will worship him with my life!

How about you?

FEEL LIKE EATING SOME WORMS?

1 Peter 5:7 “…for He cares for you.”

There’s an old camp song that goes like this… “Nobody loves me. Everybody hates me. Guess I’ll go eat worms…Big fat juicy ones…itty bitty squishy ones… see how they wiggle and squirm…” and so forth. Have you ever felt so lost…so all alone…so empty that it seemed like no one cared for you? I know that’s not true, but the feeling is oh so real.

There are so many people who surround you, in your own personal sphere of influence, who need to know the truth as proclaimed in the Scripture above. “God cares about you!” They really do need to know that He cares. In Romans 8:19, the Holy Spirit tells us that all of creation is “eagerly waiting for the manifestation of the sons of God.” Everybody needs somebody to stand up boldly and proclaim, as a son or daughter of God, that God loves them and cares for them! Not only do they want to hear the Good News BUT they need to hear proof!

I believe that the majority of Christians agree with this line of thinking, but don’t know where to begin to share with these lonely, empty and hurting people. What can I say that would speak to their situation? TELL THEM YOUR STORY! Tell them what He’s done for you that evidenced His great care for you!

2 years ago I lost 2 people very close to me! My faith was shaken to the core and my heart seemed to be irreparably damaged. A huge piece of my heart was torn out as I watched my son and his wife suffer through the loss of our first grandchild, Elliana, at the age of four months. She is sooooo precious. There isn’t a day that goes by that I don’t ask the Lord to let her know of my love for her and to just say “Hey!” for me. A few months after that, they suffered a miscarriage in the very early stages. Personally, I was hurting and felt as if I’d been abandoned. My heart seemed to turn cold. I needed a touch from God in the way that only HE is able to provide. He came through!

While I was sleeping late night, the Lord allowed me to dream. I don’t dream that often, but this one will stay with me forever. I was taken to Heaven and as I was ushered in, a beautiful young lady with big brown eyes..approximately 20-22 years old…dressed in a beautiful white spring like, lacey dress…the kind of beauty that goes right to your heart…inner and outer beauty…she walked right up to me and after looking with love deep into my eyes…she hugged me. I could feel her peace and love, and the Glory of God, pulsing through her embrace. As soon as I saw her I knew she was my granddaughter, Eliana.

As she broke the embrace, and looked again into my eyes, I saw another beautiful young lady about a year younger than Eliana, walk up behind her. For the first time, Eliana spoke to me and simply said “This is my sister, Elizabeth.” I knew that this was the young fetus, who had been lost in the early stage of pregnancy…but now I knew her personally! I hugged Elizabeth too!With overwhelming joy, I was taken back to my room and as I awoke, I was crying tears of joy and peace consumed my entire being. You see…God loved me so much…he knew what it would take to bring closure and healing into my life…and He did it for me… at the right time…simply because He cares for me! Since that moment, when He displayed His care for me…my faith is fired up, my walk is holy, and my heart is filled with compassion for my fellow man. I will not slow down!

A couple days later..as I was sharing this story with my son…I discovered something I hadn’t known (Another confirmation from God) that Mike & Kris had planned to name all of their children with names beginning with the letter “E.” By the way our newest granddaughter Eva, is awesome. And I dare not forget to mention Mason…our Grandson.

God demonstrated His love and care for me by opening the doors of my heart with the key that only HE knew was needed. God also cares for you. He has NO FAVORITES! WE’RE ALL HIS FAVORITES!Let me close with this…God will never love you any more than He does right now. He will never love you any less than He does right now!

GOD CARES FOR YOU and He expects you to be a reflection of that CARE…TODAY! Who is it that He has placed in your circle of influence? Who will you embrace today with the CARE OF GOD?

There is Peace in His Decrees!

Ken Bombard

Your Worth!

Revelation 1:5-6 “All praise to him who loves us and has freed us from our sins by shedding his blood for us. He has made us his kingdom and his priests who serve before God his Father. Give to him everlasting glory! He rules forever and ever! Amen!”

We need to come to the place where we are secure enough in who we are in Christ that we will not allow our sense of worth to be based on the opinions or actions of others.

Don't try to find your worth in how you look. Don't try to find your worth in what you do or what you’ve done in the past. Worth does not come from the amount of money you make, the performances you render, or the number of lovers you embrace. Don't try to find your worth in how other people treat you.

You are worth something because Jesus shed His blood for you.

You may have faults, and there may be things about you that need to be changed, but God is working on you the same as He is on everybody else. Don't let somebody else dump their problems off on you and allow them to re-entangle you in the web of worry, doubt, doom, gloom, shame & sin.

Don't allow someone else to make you feel worthless or useless just because they don't know how to treat you right and love you as you deserve to be loved… as a blood -bought child of God.

Don't spend all your life trying to win somebody else's acceptance or approval. Just do unto others as Jesus commands us to do and if that isn’t good enough…that’s HIS problem. Remember that you have already been accepted and approved by God. Make sure that your affirmation, your validation, your sense of self-worth come from Him and what He says about you in His Word.

• You are an heir of God…a Joint Heir with Jesus Christ.


• You are a Son OR Daughter of God.You are the Apple of God’s Eye.


• You are the Righteousness of God in Christ. (That means you stand in the presence of God as though sin has NEVER touched your life.)


• You are Made in the Image & Likeness of God.


• You possess a Soul which is greater than all the value the world has to offer.


• You are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people.


• Angels minister unto us , and rejoice in our obedience.


• Jesus is preparing a place for you to live with Him in Heaven forever.


• You can do all things thru Christ Who strengthens you!


• You are fearfully & wonderfully made.You have the favor of God & of man.


• You are Free to live in Christ.

Need I say More?

Peace in Jesus!

Ken Bombard

EAGER TO LET HIM IN!

John 6 20-21 “…he called out to them, “I am here! Don’t be afraid.” Then they were eager to let Him in, and immediately the boat arrived at their destination.”

Jesus had just healed a lame man who had been infirmed thirty eight years, proclaimed to the Jewish leaders that He was the Son of God, and fed five thousand men, plus women and children, from a few loaves and fishes. That evening Jesus’ disciples had gotten into a boat and began to sail to the other side of the lake without Jesus. Let me add right here. Don’t go anywhere without Jesus! You never know when you may encounter a storm!

These disciples had seen the healings, heard the proclamations and actually distributed the fish and bread to the multitudes. They knew from whence the power had flowed, yet they were determined to go it alone in the boat. In the very midst of gale force winds, (their troubles) Jesus approached them. They weren’t even calling out for His help, but He showed up on the scene with the end result that “immediately their boat arrived at their destination.”

1 Peter 5:7 says that “…He cares for you!” With Jesus on the scene and obedience to His command, nothing could stop that boat from reaching the other side in a hurry!

When all is hopeless and reliable means are failing you, you can trust in this fact: He cares for you and He will show up on the scene! There is however, a role for you to play!

You must place yourself in a position to hear His voice, His command. In this particular situation He commanded them “Don’t be afraid!” If the disciples had continued shouting and calling for help, they never would have heard His soothing and peaceful command. When you are in the middle of a stormy situation, you need to position yourself in a place where you can hear His call.

That means to calm down your fearful mind by reading His Word out loud, by singing praises or just shouting His Name. David called on his Deliverer while facing the giant. David “encouraged himself in the Lord” while everyone in Ziklag wanted to kill him. Paul and Silas shouted praise at midnight while stuck on prison. Then hear what He has to speak into your heart!

Do what He says. Apparently in this situation He told the disciples to let Him into the boat, because the Bible says “…they were eager to let Him in the boat." In John 15, Jesus tells us that, if we obey Him, we will remain connected with him, and that nothing will be impossible. Remember that there is always a way out, or through, or around, your situation or circumstance. 1Corinthians 10:13 “…God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted (troubled) above that which you can handle; but will with the temptation (trouble) also make a way to escape, that you may be able to bear it.”

Sometimes He shows the way out, or around the trouble. Sometime He allows you to go through the fiery trail. Father knows best! Whatever way He chooses, even if it’s through it, He will be with you, speaking to you, encouraging you and empowering you. Daniel 3:27 says that the fire could not harm the three Hebrew young men and that even the smell of smoke was not allowed upon their garments. In Daniel 3:30 we are told that they received a “promotion” after having gone through their fire!

Are you eager to “let Him in” today? If He wants to come in your boat, let Him in. If He wishes to row, let Him row. If He wants to steer let Him steer. If He wants you to row or steer, row or steer. Your boat is soon to arrive at its destination, if you will hear and obey! Let HIM in the Boat!

TODAY!

Time once spent, cannot be reclaimed, so invest it wisely! 2 Corinthians 6:1 "Companions as we are in this work with you, we beg you, please don’t squander one bit of this marvelous life God has given us." The Message

How was your day? Was it filled with the same old routine stuff, meandering throughout the obstacles of the day? Perhaps you floated all the way through, just holding your breath that nothing out of the ordinary would throw you off course. Maybe it was a day full of bitterness, pain, and heartache, and your head throbbed and your heart pounded to the rhythm of the hurt. Perhaps the deep depression got even darker today and those nagging, desperate thoughts plagued your mind once again. Sometimes you just can’t feel, find, or see the Hand of God upon your life.

Today I want you to take a deep breath and reflect on what the Holy Spirit has to say to you! He says “please don’t squander one bit of this marvelous life God has given you!” In other words, don’t waste the opportunities to enjoy what God has set before you in each and every day. It is indeed a marvelous life if we stop to reflect on Who Jesus is in our lives and What He’s done for us! This could be the day of your Victory if you would begin to praise him in the midst of your dungeon experience. He “always causes us to triumph in Christ.” 2 Corinthians 2:14 He has defeated death and there isn't anything left that that He has not conquered!

Let me ask you this question. Are you aware of anyone who is not under some sort of pressure, trauma, trial or testing? Everybody I know is going through something. Everyone has issues! The good news is that you have someone to go through the fire with you! Listen as Jesus’ Words come alive in Matthew 28::20 “…I am with you always, even unto the end of the world.” Sometimes it seems impossible, but you need to know miracles usually aren’t necessary when things are still under our control. Jesus is the God of Possibility when He is invited into the midst of your impossibilities!

Acts 16:23-ff states that after Paul and Silas had been beaten many times and were thrown into a deep, dark dungeon, in the darkest hour of night, they began to remember Who was with them. They began to praise Him, because they understood that God shows up on the scene when He hears His Name being lifted up. I believe that the darker it is, the quicker He appears and the brighter He shines. God showed up on the scene and broke them out of the place of bondage. The same God, Who moved Joseph from the Prison to the Palace; Who walked with Daniel in the lion’s den and delivered Him from certain doom; The same Jesus Who was the “Fourth Man” in the fire with Shadrach, Meshak and Abednigo and brought them through the fire “without even the smell of smoke upon their garments;” He is with you right now and He has come to deliver you and set you free!

Stop pursuing liberty and freedom and begin to pursue the “Way, Truth and the Life!” We are not speaking of the pursuit of a place; but the pursuit of a Person! He will set you free! Stop looking for the way out of your situation and circumstances, and begin to look for the way into “abiding” with Him where He can fill you with His Presence and His Power. Listen very carefully.

Evil can not and will not stay in His Presence. His Word declares to “Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” James 4:7 The Word of God declares concerning today… "This is the day which the LORD has made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.” Psalm 118:24 Psalm 118:6 also states that “…the Lord God is on my side, I will not fear what man can do to me!”

God is on your side!
You can not lose.
Just don’t quit!
Start praising Him right now and see if He doesn’t show up.
Make a sacrifice of praise! It’s easy to praise Him when everything is going along fine. Lift up your hands and voices and call on His Name. God is waiting on you!

Isaiah 60:1-2 “Arise, shine; for your light has come, and the glory of the LORD is risen upon you. For, behold, the darkness will cover the earth, and gross darkness the people: but the LORD will arise upon you, and his glory will be seen upon you.” I can see Him right now!

THE CHRISTMAS BELL

“The bottom edge of the ephod shall be embroidered with blue, purple, and scarlet pomegranates, alternated with gold bells. Aaron shall wear the ephod whenever he goes in to minister to the Lord; the bells will tinkle as he goes in and out of the presence of the Lord in the Holy Place...” Exodus 28:34-35

The only place the word “Bell” is used in the Bible is in reference to the golden bells which were attached to the bottom of the robe the High Priest wore when he ventured into the Holy of Holies or the very Presence of God. The bells were doubtless intended to keep up the people's attention to the very solemn and important office which the priest was then performing, that they might all have their hearts engaged in the work; and at the same time to keep Aaron himself in remembrance that he ministered before Jehovah, and should not come into his presence without due reverence.

I would also remind you that if the bells were to stop ringing, the attendants would drag the High priest from the Holy of Holies by the rope attached to his foot. He had made the fatal mistake of attempting to enter the Presence of God improperly prepared or without reverential awe!

Sometimes it does us good to rehearse the Awesomeness of God and remember that the Presence of God now lives within us! You have become the Holy of Holies. Someone sent me the following “Christmas Bell” by email and the author remains anonymous. I wanted to share it with you this Christmas in order to remind you that you have a right to enter into the presence of God because of the Gift He gave us the first Christmas.

What better time than now to believe in your heart that Jesus was born in that manger to die on the Cross for you! As you believe then invite Him to be the Lord over your life; your Gift from God will be New Life this Christmas!

Now read and research every Scripture within your own “Christmas Bell!”

May the Peace of God and His Spirit of Eternal Life be your portion today!

THE BELL
I KNOW WHO I AM
I am God's child (John 1:12)
I am Christ's friend (John 15:15 )
I am united with the Lord (1 Cor 6:17)
I am bought with a price (1 Cor. 6:19-20)
I am a saint (set apart for God). (Eph. 1:1)
I am a personal witness of Christ. (Acts 1:8)
I am the salt & light of the earth (Matt 5:13-14)
I am a member of the body of Christ (1 Cor 12:27)
I am free forever from condemnation ( Rom. 8: 1-2)
I am a citizen of Heaven. I am significant (Phil 3 :20)
I am free from any charge against me (Rom. 8:31 -34)
I am a minister of reconciliation for God (2 Cor 5:17-21)
I have access to God through the Holy Spirit (Eph. 2:18)
I am seated with Christ in the heavenly realms (Eph. 2:6)
I cannot be separated from the love of God (Rom 8:35-39)
I am established, anointed, sealed by God (2 Cor 1:21-22 )
I am assured all things work together for good (Rom. 8:28 )
I have been chosen and appointed to bear fruit (John 15:16 )
I may approach God with freedom and confidence (Eph. 3: 12 )
I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me (Phil. 4:13 )
I am the branch of the true vine, a channel of His life (John 15: 1-5)
I am God's temple (1 Cor. 3: 16). I am complete in Christ (Col10)
I am hidden with Christ in God (Col. 3:3).. I have been justified (Romans 5:1)
I am God's co-worker (1 Cor. 3:9; 2 Cor. 6:1). I am God's workmanship (Eph. 2:10)
I am confident that the good works God has begun in me will be perfected. (Phil. 1: 5)
I have been redeemed and forgiven ( Col 1:14). I have been adopted as God's child (Eph 1:5)
I belong to God
Do you know
Who you are?

ARE YOU CRAZY?

Gal 3:3 "Have you lost your senses? After starting your Christian lives in the Spirit, why are you now trying to become perfect by your own human effort?” NLT

Do you love the Lord but still find yourself involved in the same sin or sins over and over again? Do you find yourself full of resolve and good intentions on doing what is Godly but still keep on stumbling? The same old pattern repeats itself time after time. You stand strong for a period of time and when all seems to be going well…Wham…it hits you and you fall for the same old trap again.

We know that when we sin, we lose fellowship with the Lord. Notice I said fellowship; not salvation. When we fall, we are unable to stay intimate or connected with Him, abiding in the shadow of His protection and the fullness of His provision.

Re-read the beginning Scripture above. It wasn’t our good works that brought us into His Kingdom and it won’t be our self empowered efforts or willpower that causes us to overcome the temptations we encounter. As long as we continue to try and “become perfect by our own human effort,” we will continue to fail miserably. Paul felt this same way when he cried out in Romans 7:24 “O wretched man that I am! Who will deliver me from this body of death?” He knew that his own ability was severely lacking. Fortunately, he was given the answer and he responds in the next verse. “Thanks be unto God! Jesus can and Jesus will!”

You are attempting to obey God in your flesh. The verse says that the same way you got saved, by believing in Him, is the same way you walk in the spirit. Romans 8:12 "So, dear brothers and sisters, you have no obligation whatsoever to do what your sinful nature urges you to do. For if you keep on following it, you will perish. But if through the power of the Holy Spirit you turn from it and its evil deeds, you will live. For all who are led by the Spirit of God are children of God.”

It's through the power of the Holy Spirit alone that you can obey! Start turning even your ability to obey over to Him. Ask Him to give you His willpower and ability to walk in obedience. Phillipians 2:13 “For it is God who works in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure.”

Tell Him you can't do it and you need His Willpower and ability...He will gladly take over. If you think about it, when you give it all to Him...He moves...when you take some back into your own ability...you hinder His ability!

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

He knew that if he boasted in his inability...the Power of Christ would be his ability!
Get back up on your horse...shake the dust off and get back at it! You are on the verge of a permanent breakthrough as long as you trust Him for His willpower and His ability.

Tell Him today that you recognize your inability to be a wife, husband, father, mother, Christian, businessman, Church leader, employee. Tell Him “I can’t do it!” Tell Him you can’t pray, worship, read you Bible, witness or minister without Him. Then simply ask Him to give you His willpower (To do His will) and His ability in all that you do. Phillipians 4:13 states that “I can do all things through Christ, Who strengthens me!”

Insanity is defined as doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results. Isn’t it time to defeat sin God’s way? Stop trying to win with your own willpower and ability. If you’ve “lost your senses” then begin to experience victorious living God’s way right now! Give it all to Jesus!

No go back to the picture above from the NASA space telescope and see God's hand reaching out to help you!