MORNING JUNE 1
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The fruit of the Spirit is longsuffering, gentleness.
The Lord, the Lord God, merciful and gracious, longsuffering, and abundant in goodness and truth.
Walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called, with all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love. — Be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you. — The wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy. — Charity suffereth long, and is kind.
In due season we shall reap, if we faint not. — Be patient therefore, brethren, unto the coming of the Lord. Behold, the husbandman waiteth for the precious fruit of the earth, and hath long patience for it, until he receive the early and latter rain. Be ye also patient; stablish your hearts: for the coming of the Lord draweth nigh.
GAL. 5:22. Exo. 34:6. Eph. 4:1,2. -Eph. 4:32. -Jas. 3:17. -I Cor. 13:4. Gal. 6:9. -Jas. 5:7,8.
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EVENING JUNE 1
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Emmanuel, ... God with us.
Will God in very deed dwell with men on the earth? behold, heaven and the heaven of heavens cannot contain thee. — The Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth. — Great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh.
God hath in these last days spoken unto us by his Son, whom he hath appointed heir of all things, by whom also he made the worlds.
The first day of the week, when the doors were shut where the disciples were assembled, ... came Jesus and stood in the midst. Then were the disciples glad, when they saw the Lord. After eight days again his disciples were within, and Thomas with them. Then saith [Jesus] to Thomas, Reach hither thy finger, and behold my hands; and reach hither thy hand, and thrust it into my side: and be not faithless, but believing. Thomas ... said, My Lord and my God. — Unto us a Son is given: the mighty God.
MATT. 1:23. 2 Chr 6:18. -John 1:14. -I Tim. 3:16. Heb 1:2. John 20:19,20,26-28. -Isa. 9:6.
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MORNING JUNE 2
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Thus shall ye eat it; with your loins girded, and ye shall eat it in haste: it is the Lord's passover.
Arise ye, and depart; for this is not your rest. — Here have we no continuing city, but we seek one to come. — There remaineth therefore a rest for the people of God.
Let your loins be girded about, and your lights burning; and ye yourselves like unto men that wait for their lord, when he will return from the wedding; that when he cometh and knocketh, they may open unto him immediatety. Blessed are those servants, whom the lord when he cometh shall find watching. — Gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and hope to the end for the grace that is to be brought unto you at the revelation of Jesus Christ. — This one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, ... I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. Let us therefore, as many as be perfect, be thus minded,
EXO. 12:11. Mic. 2:10. -Heb. 13:14. -Heb. 4:9. Luke 12:35-37. -I Pet. 1:13. -Php. 3:13-15.
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EVENING JUNE 2
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The Lord is the portion of mine inheritance and of my cup.
Heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ. — All things are your's. — My beloved is mine. — The Son of God ... loved me, and gave himself for me.
The Lord spake unto Aaron, Thou shalt have no inheritance in their land, neither shalt thou have any part among them: I am thy part and thy inheritance among the children of Israel.
Whom have I in heaven but thee? and there is none upon earth that I desire beside thee. My flesh and my heart faileth: but God is the strength of my heart, and my portion forever.
Though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. — I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that he is able to keep that which I have committed unto him against that day.
O God, thou art my God; early will I seek thee: my soul thirsteth for thee, my flesh longeth for thee in a dry and thirsty land.
PSA. 16:5. Rom. 8:17. -I Cor. 3:21. -Song 2:16. -Gal. 2:20. Num. 8:20. Psa. 73:25,26. Psa. 23:4. -II Tim. 1:12. Psa. 63:1.
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MORNING JUNE 3
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Watch, for ye know neither the day nor the hour wherein the Son of man cometh.
Take heed to yourselves, lest at any time your hearts be overcharged with surfeiting, and drunkenness, and cares of this life, and so that day come upon you unawares. For as a snare shall it come on all them that dwell on the face of the whole earth. Watch ye therefore, and pray always, that ye may be accounted worthy to escape all these things that shall come to pass, and to stand before the Son of man.
The day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night. For when they shall say, Peace and safety; then sudden destruction cometh upon them, as travail upon a woman with child; and they shall not escape. But ye, brethren, are not in darkness, that that day should overtake you as a thief. Ye are all the children of light, and the children of the day; we are not of the night, nor of darkness. Therefore let us not sleep, as do others; but let us watch and be sober.
MATT. 25:13. Luke 21:34-36. I Thes. 5:2-6.
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EVENING JUNE 3
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I am the Almighty God; walk before me, and be thou perfect.
Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect. I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.
Enoch walked with God and he was not; for God took him.
Grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. — We all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord.
These words spake Jesus, I pray not that thou shouldest take them out of the world, but that thou shouldest keep them from the evil. I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one.
GEN. 17:1. Php. 3:12-14. Gen. 5:24. II Pet. 3:18. -II Cor. 3:18. John 17:1,15,23.
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MORNING JUNE 4
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The glory of this latter house shall be greater than of the former, and in this place will I give peace.
The house that is to be builded for the Lord must be exceeding magnifical, of fame and of glory throughout all countries. — The glory of the Lord ... filled the Lord's house.
Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up. He spake of the temple of his body. — That which was made glorious had no glory in this respect by reason of the glory that excelleth. — The Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father) full of grace and truth. — God ... hath in these last days spoken unto us by his Son, whom he hath appointed heir of all things, by whom also he made the worlds.
Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men. — The Prince of Peace. — He is our peace. — The peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
HAG. 2:9. 1 Chr 22:5. -2 Chr 7:2. John 2:19,21. -II Cor. 3:10. - John 1:14. -Heb. 1:1,2. Luke 2:14. -Isa. 9:6. -Eph. 2:14. -Php. 4:7.
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EVENING JUNE 4
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Let us put on the armour of light.
Put ... on the lord Jesus Christ. — That I may win Christ, and be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith. — The righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe.
He hath covered me with the robe of righteousness. — I will go in the strength of the Lord God: I will make mention of thy righteousness, even of thine only.
Ye were sometime darkness, but now are ye light in the Lord: walk as children of Light. Have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness but rather reprove them. All things that are reproved are made manifest by the light: for whatsoever doth make manifest is light. Awake thou that sleepest, and rise from the dead, and Christ shall give thee light. See then that ye walk circumspectly.
ROM. 13:12. Rom. 13:14. -Php. 3:8,9. -Rom. 3:22. Isa. 61:10. -Psa. 71:16. Eph. 5:8,11,13-15.
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MORNING JUNE 5
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When ye shall have done all those things which are commanded you, say, We are unprofitable servants.
Where is boasting then? It Is excluded. By what law? of works? Nay: but by the law of faith. — What hast thou that thou didst not receive? now if thou didst receive it, why dost thou glory, as if thou hadst not received it? — By grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God: not of works, lest any man should boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.
By the grace of God I am what I am: and his grace which was bestowed upon me was not in vain; but I laboured more abundantly than they all: yet not I, but the grace of God which was with me. — For of him, and through Him, and to Him, are all things. — All things come of thee and of thine own have we given thee.
Enter not into judgment with thy servant: for in thy sight shall no man living be justified.
LUKE 17:10. Rom. 3:27. -I Cor. 4:7. -Eph. 2:8-10. I Cor. 15:10. -Rom. 11:36. -1 Chr 29:14. Psa. 143:2.
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EVENING JUNE 5
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He knoweth our frame; he remembereth that we are dust.
The Lord God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul.
I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvellous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well. My substance was not hid from thee, when I was made in secret. Thine eyes did see my substance, yet being unperfect; and in thy book all my members were written, which in continuance were fashioned, when as yet there was none of them.
Have we not all one father? Hath not one God created us? — In him we live, and move, and have our being. — Like as a father pitieth his children, so the Lord pitieth them that fear him.
He, being full of compassion, forgave their iniquity, and destroyed them not: yea, many a time turned he his anger away, and did not stir up all his wrath. For he remembered that they were but flesh; a wind that passeth away, and cometh not again.
PSA. 103:14. Gen. 2:7. Psa. 139:14-16. Mal. 2:10. -Acts 17:28. -Psa. 103:13. Psa. 78:38,39.
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MORNING JUNE 6
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He will rest in his love.
The Lord did not set his love upon you, nor choose you, because ye were more in number than any people; for ye were the fewest of all people: but because the Lord loved you. — We love him, because he first loved us. — You ... hath he reconciled in the body of his flesh through death, to present you holy and unblameable and unreproveable in his sight.
Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins. — God commendeth his love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.
Lo, a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. — Therefore doth my Father love me, because I lay down my life, that I might take it again. — His son ... who being the brightness of his glory, and the express image of his person, and upholding all things by the word of his power, when he had by himself purged our sins, sat down on the right hand of the majesty on high.
ZEPH. 3:17. Deut. 7:7,8. -I John 4:19. -Col. 1:21,22. I John 4:10. -Rom. 5:8. Matt. 3:17. -John 10:17. -Heb. 1:2,3.
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EVENING JUNE 6
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A new and living way.
Cain went out from the presence of the Lord. — Your iniquities have separated between you and your God, and your sins have hid his face from you. — Without holiness, no man shall see the Lord.
I am the way, and the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me. — Our Saviour Jesus Christ ... hath abolished death, and hath brought life and immortality to light through the gospel.
The way into the holiest of all was not yet made manifest, while as the first tabernacle was yet standing. — He is our peace, who hath made both one, and hath broken down the middle wall of partition between us. — The veil of the temple was rent in twain from the top to the bottom.
Strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it. — Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in thy presence is fulness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore.
HEB. 10:20. Gen. 4:16. -Isa. 59:2. -Heb. 12:14. John 14:6. -II Tim. 1:10. Heb. 9:8. -Eph. 2:14. -Matt. 27:51. Matt. 7:14. -Psa 16:11.
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MORNING JUNE 7
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Men ought always to pray, and not to faint.
Which of you shall have a friend, and shall go unto him at midnight, and say unto him, Friend, lend me three loaves; for a friend of mine in his journey is come to me and I have nothing to set before him? And he from within shall answer and say, Trouble me not: the door is now shut, and my children are with me in bed; I cannot rise and give thee. I say unto you, Though he will not rise and give him, because he is his friend, yet because of his importunity he will rise and give him as many as he needeth. — Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints.
I will not let thee go, except thou bless me. — As a prince hast thou power with God and with men. — Continue in prayer, and watch in the same with thanksgiving.
[Jesus] went out into a mountain to pray, and continued all night in prayer to God.
LUKE 18:1. Luke 11:5-8. -Eph. 6:18. Gen. 32:26,28. -Col. 4:2. Luke 6:12.
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EVENING JUNE 7
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Forgive all my sins.
Come now, and let us reason together, saith the Lord: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool.
Be of good cheer; thy sins be forgiven thee. — I, even I, am he that blotteth out thy transgressions for mine own sake, and will not remember thy sins.
The Son of man hath power on earth to forgive sins. — In Whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace. — Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost; which he shed on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Saviour. — Having forgiven you all trespasses, blotting out the handwriting of ordinances that was against us, which was contrary to us, and took it out of the way, nailing it to his cross.
Bless the Lord, O my soul, ... who forgives all thine iniquities.
PSA. 25:18. Isa. 1:18. Matt. 9:2. -Isa. 43:25. Matt. 9:6. -Eph. 1:7. -Tit. 3:5,6. -Col. 2:13,14. Psa. 103:2,3.
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MORNING JUNE 8
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The Lord made all that he did to prosper in his hand.
Blessed is every one that feareth the Lord; that walketh in his ways. For thou shalt eat the labour of thine hands: happy shalt thou be, and it shall be well with thee. — Trust in the Lord, and do good; so shalt thou dwell in the land, and verily thou shalt be fed. Delight thyself also in the Lord; and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart. — Be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the Lord thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest.
Seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall he added unto you.
As long as he sought the Lord, God made him to prosper. — Beware that thou forget not the Lord thy God, in not keeping his commandments, and his judgments, and his statutes, which I command thee this day: and thou say in thine heart, My power and the might of mine hand hath gotten me this wealth.
Is not the Lord your God with you? and hath he not given you rest on every side?
GEN. 39:3. Psa. 128:1,2. Psa. 37:3,4. -Josh. 1:9. Matt. 6:33. 2 Chr 26:5. -Deut. 8:11,17. 1 Chr 22:18.
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EVENING JUNE 8
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Why reason ye these things in your hearts?
Being not weak in faith, [Abraham] considered not his own body now dead, when he was about an hundred year's old, neither yet the deadness of Sarah's womb; he staggered not at the promise of God through unbelief; but was strong in faith, giving glory to God.
Is it easier to say to the sick of the palsy, Thy sins be forgiven thee or to say, Arise, and take up thy bed, and walk? — If thou canst believe, all things are possible to him that believeth.
All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. — Why are ye so fearful? how is it that ye have no faith? — Behold the fowls of the air; ... your heavenly Father feedeth them. Are ye not much better than they? — Why reason ye among yourselves, because ye have brought no bread? Do ye not ... remember the five loaves of the five thousand?
My God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.
MARK 2:8. Rom. 4:19,20. Mark 2:9. -Mark 9:23. Matt. 28:18. -Mark 4:40. -Matt. 6:26. -Matt. 16:8,9. Php. 4:19.
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MORNING JUNE 9
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Never man spake like this man.
Thou art fairer than the children of men: grace is poured into thy lips: therefore God hath blessed thee for ever. — The Lord GOD hath given me the tongue of the learned, that I should know how to speak a word in season to him that is weary. — His mouth is most sweet: yea, he is altogether lovely. This is my beloved, and this is my friend.
All bare him witness, and wondered at the gracious words which proceeded out of his mouth. — He taught them as one having authority, and not as the scribes.
Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom. — The sword of the Spirit ... is the word of God. — The word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword. — The weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strongholds; casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ.
JOHN 7:46. Psa. 45:2. -Isa. 50:4. -Song 5:16. Luke 4:22. -Matt. 7:29. Col. 3:16. -Eph. 6:17. -Heb. 4:12. -II Cor. 10:4,5.
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EVENING JUNE 9
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The triumphing of the wicked is short.
Thou shalt bruise his heel. — This is your hour, and the power of darkness. — As the children are partakers of flesh and blood he also himself likewise took part of the same; that through death he might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil. — Having spoiled principalities and powers, he made a shew of them openly, triumphing over them in it.
Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about seeking whom he may devour: whom resist stedfast in the faith. — Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.
The wicked plotteth against the just, and gnasheth upon him with his teeth. The Lord shall laugh at him: for he seeth that his day is coming. — The God of peace shall bruise Satan under your feet shortly. — The devil ... was cast into the lake of fire and brimstone ... and shall be tormented day and night for ever and ever.
JOB 20:5. Gen. 3:15. -Luke 22:53. -Heb. 2:14. -Col. 2:15. I Pet. 5:8,9. -Jas. 4:7. Psa. 37:12,13. -Rom. 16:20. -Rev. 20:10.
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MORNING JUNE 10
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The younger son took his journey into a far country, and there wasted his sub-stance with riotous living.
Such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God. — We ... were by nature the children of wrath, even as others. But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;) and hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus.
Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins.
God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. If, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life.
LUKE 15:13. I Cor. 6:11. -Eph. 2:3-6. I John 4:10. Rom. 5:8,10.
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EVENING JUNE 10
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As Christ forgave you, so also do ye.
There was a certain creditor which had two debtors: the one owed five hundred pence, and the other fifty. And when they had nothing to pay, he frankly forgave them both. — I forgave thee all that debt; shouldest not thou also have had compassion on thy fellow-servant, even as I had pity on thee?
When ye stand praying, forgive, if ye have ought against any: that your Father also which is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses. But if ye do not forgive, neither will your Father which is in heaven forgive your tres-passes. — Put on as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering; forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any.
How oft shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? till seven times? Jesus saith unto him, I say not unto thee, Until seven times: but, until seventy times seven.
Charity ... is the bond of perfectness.
COL. 3:13. Luke 7:41,42. -Matt.18:32,33. Mark 11:25,26. -Col. 3:12,13. Matt. 18:21,22. Col. 3:14.
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MORNING JUNE 11
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He arose, and came to his father. But when he was yet a great way off, his father saw him, and ran, and fell on his neck, and kissed him.
The Lord is merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and plenteous in mercy. He will not always chide: neither will he keep his anger for ever. He hath not dealt with us after our sins; nor rewarded us according to our iniquities. For as the heaven is high above the earth, so great is his mercy toward them that fear him. As far as the east is from the west, so far hath he removed our transgressions from us. Like as a father pitieth his children, so the Lord pitieth them that fear him.
Ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father. The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God. — Ye who sometime were far off are made nigh by the blood of Christ. — Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellow-citizens with the saints, and of the household of God.
LUKE 15:20. Psa. 103:8-13. Rom. 8:15,16. -Eph. 2:13. -Eph. 2:19.
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EVENING JUNE 11
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Behold, I make all things new.
Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God. — If any man be in Christ, he is a new creature; old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.
A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you: and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you an heart of flesh. — Purge out therefore the old leaven, that ye may be a new lump. — The new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness.
Thou shalt be called by a new name, which the mouth of the Lord shall name.
Behold, I create new heavens and a new earth: and the former shall not be remembered, nor come into mind. — Seeing ... that all these things shall be dissolved, what manner of persons ought ye to be in all holy conversation and godliness?
REV. 21:5. John 3:3. -II Cor. 5:17. Ezek. 36:26. -I Cor. 5:7. -Eph. 4:24. Isa. 62:2. Isa. 65:17. -II Pet. 3:11.
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MORNING JUNE 12
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Everything that may abide the fire, ye shall make it go through the fire, and it shalI be clean.
The Lord your God proveth you, to know whether ye love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul. — He shall sit as a refiner and purifier of silver: and he shall purify the sons of Levi, and purge them as gold and silver, that they may offer unto the Lord an offering in righteousness. — Every man's work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every man's work of what sort it is.
I will turn my hand upon thee, and purely purge away thy dross, and take away all thy tin. — I will melt them. and try them.
Thou, O God, hast proved us; thou hast tried us, as silver is tried. We went through fire and through water: but thou broughtest us out into a wealthy place.
When thou walkest through the fire, thou shalt not be burned; neither shall the flame kindle upon thee.
NUM. 31:23. Deut. 13:3. -Mal. 3:3. -I Cor. 3:13. Isa. 1:25. -Jer. 9:7. Psa. 66:10,12. Isa. 43:2.
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EVENING JUNE 12
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We, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness.
Put off, concerning the former conversation, the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts: and be renewed in the spirit of your mind; and ... put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness.
Ye are dead and your life is hid with Christ in God. — As Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin. For he that is dead is freed from sin. Likewise reckon ye also yourselves to be dead indeed unto sin, but alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord. Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, that ye should obey it in the lusts thereof: but yield yourselves unto God, as those that are alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness unto God.
I PET. 2:24. Eph. 4:22-24. Col. 3:3. -Rom. 6:4,6,7,11-13.
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MORNING JUNE 13
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Abide in me, and I in you.
I am crucified with Christ; nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.
I know that in me (that is, in my flesh,) dwelleth no good thing: for to will is present with me; but how to perform that which is good I find not. O wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me from the body of this death? I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord. — If Christ be in you, the body is dead because of sin, but the Spirit is life because of righteousness. — If ye continue in the faith grounded and settled, and be not moved away from the hope of the gospel, which ye have heard.
Little children, abide in him; that, when he shall appear, we may have confidence, and not be ashamed before him at his coming. — He that saith he abideth in him ought himself also so to walk, even as he walked.
JOHN 15:4. Gal. 2:20. Rom. 7:18,24,25. -Rom. 8:10. -Col. 1:23. I John 2:28. -I John 2:6.
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EVENING JUNE 13
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Dost thou believe on the Son of God?
Who is he, Lord, that I might believe on him?
The brightness of his glory, and the express image of his person. — The blessed and only Potentate, the King of kings, and Lord of lords; who only hath immortality, dwelling in the light which no man can approach unto; whom no man hath seen, nor can see: to whom be honour and power everlasting. Amen. — I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending, saith the Lord, which is, and which was, and which is to come, the Almighty.
Lord, I believe. — I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that he is able to keep that which I have committed unto him against that day.
Behold, I lay in Sion a chief corner stone, elect, precious: and he that believeth on him shall not be confounded. Unto you therefore which believe he is precious.
JOHN 9:35. John 9:36. Heb. 1:3. -I Tim. 6:15,16. -Rev. 1:8. John 9:38. -II Tim. 1:12. I Pet. 2:6,7.
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MORNING JUNE 14
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As the sufferings of Christ abound in us, so our consolation also aboundeth by Christ.
The fellowship of his sufferings. — Rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ's sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy. — For if we be dead with him, we shall also live with him. — If children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together.
God, willing more abundantly to shew unto the heirs of promise the immutability of his counsel, confirmed it by an oath: that by two immutable things, in which it was impossible for God to lie, we might have a strong consolation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold upon the hope set before us. — Our Lord Jesus Christ Himself, and God, even our Father, which hath loved us, and hath given us everlasting consolation and good hope through grace, comfort your hearts, and stablish you in every good word and work.
II COR. 1:5. Php. 3:10. -I Pet. 4:13. -II Tim. 2:11. -Rom. 8:17. Heb. 6:17,18. -II Thes. 2:16,17.
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EVENING JUNE 14
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Martha, Martha, thou art careful and troubled about many things.
Consider the ravens: for they neither sow nor reap. Consider the lilies how they grow: they toil not, they spin not. Seek not ye what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink, neither be ye of doubtful mind. Your Father knoweth that ye have need of these things.
Having food and raiment let us be therewith content ... They that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition. For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.
The cares of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, and the lust of other things entering in, choke the word, and it becometh unfruitful.
Let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us.
LUKE 10:41. Luke 12:24,27,29,30. I Tim. 6:8-10. Mark 4:19. Heb. 12:1.
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MORNING JUNE 15
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The secret things belong unto the Lord our God: but those which are revealed belong unto us.
Lord, my heart is not haughty, nor mine eyes lofty: neither do I exercise myself in great matters, or in things too high for me. Surely I have behaved and quieted myself, as a child that is weaned of his mother: my soul is even as a weaned child.
The secret of the Lord is with them that fear him: and he will shew them his covenant. — There is a God in heaven that revealeth secrets. — Lo, these are parts of his ways: but how little a portion is heard of him?
Henceforth I call you not servants; for the servant knoweth not what his lord doeth: but I have called you friends; for all things that I have heard of my Father I have made known unto you. — If ye love me, keep my com-mandments. And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter that he may abide with you for ever; even the Spirit of truth.
DEUT. 29:29. Psa. 131:1,2. Psa. 25:14. -Dan. 2:28. -Job 26:14. John 15:15. -John 14:15-17.
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EVENING JUNE 15
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The Spirit ... maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God.
Verily, verily I say unto you, Whatsoever ye shall ask the Father in my name, he will give it you. Hitherto have ye asked nothing in my name: ask, and ye shall receive, that your joy may be full. — Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit.
This is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask any thing ac-cording to his will, he heareth us; and if we know that he hear us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we desired of him. — This is the will of God, even your sanctification.
God hath ... called us ... unto holiness: ... who hath also given unto us his Holy Spirit.
Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. Quench not the Spirit.
ROM. 8:27. John 16:23,24. -Eph. 6:18. I John 5:14,15. -I Thes. 4:3. I Thes. 4:7,8. I Thes. 5:16-19.
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MORNING JUNE 16
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See that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil.
Take diligent heed to do the commandment and the law, to love the Lord your God, and to walk in all his ways, and to keep his commandments, and to cleave unto him, and to serve him with all your heart and with all your soul. — Walk in wisdom toward them that are without, redeeming the time. Let your speech be always with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man. — Abstain from all appearance of evil.
While the bridegroom tarried, they all slumbered and slept. And at midnight there was a cry made, Behold, the bridegroom cometh; go ye out to meet him. — Watch, therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the hour wherein the Son of man cometh.
Brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure; for if we do these things, ye shall never fall. — Blessed are those servants, whom the lord when he cometh shall find watching.
EPH. 5:15,16. Josh. 22:5. -Col. 4:5,6. -I Thes. 5:22. Matt. 25:5,6. -Matt. 25:13. II Pet. 1:10. -Luke 12:37.
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EVENING JUNE 16
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Hold that fast which thou hast, that no man take thy crown.
If I may but touch his garment, I shall be whole. — Lord, if thou wilt, thou canst make me clean. I will; be thou clean. — Faith as a grain of mustard seed.
Cast not away ... your confidence, which hath great recompence of reward. — Work out your own salvation with fear and trembling. It is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure.
First the blade, then the ear, after that the full corn in the ear. — Then shall we know, if we follow on to know the Lord. — The kingdom of heaven suf-fereth violence, and the violent take it by force. — So run, that ye may obtain.
I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day.
REV. 3:11. Matt. 9:21. -Matt. 8:2,3. -Matt. 17:20. Heb. 10:35. -Php. 2:12,13. Mark 4:28. -Hos. 6:3. -Matt. 11:12. -I Cor. 9:24. II Tim. 4:7,8.
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MORNING JUNE 17
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In every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.
I love the Lord, because he hath heard my voice and my supplications. Because he hath inclined his ear unto me, therefore will I call upon him as long as I live.
When ye pray, use not vain repetitions, as the heathen do: for they think that they shall be heard for their much speaking. — The Spirit ... helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered.
I will therefore that men pray every where, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting. — Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints.
If two of you shall agree on earth as touching any thing that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of my Father which is in heaven.
Php. 4:6. Psa. 16:1,2. Matt 6:7. -Rom. 8:26. I Tim. 2:8. -Eph. 6:18. Matt. 18:19.
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EVENING JUNE 17
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All thy works shall praise thee, O Lord; and thy saints shall bless thee.
Bless the Lord, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless his holy name. Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits. — I will bless the Lord at all times: his praise shall continually be in my mouth. — Every day will I bless thee; and I will praise thy name for ever and ever.
Because thy lovingkindness is better than life, my lips shall praise thee. Thus will I bless thee while I live: I will lift up my hands in thy name. My soul shall be satisfied as with marrow and fatness; and my mouth shall praise thee with joyful lips.
My soul doth magnify the Lord, and my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Saviour.
Thou art worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honour and power: for thou hast created all things and for thy pleasure they are and were created.
PSA. 145:10. Psa. 103:1,2. -Psa. 34:1. -Psa 145:2. Psa. 63:3-5. Luke 1:46,47. Rev. 4:11.
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MORNING JUNE 18
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Thou shalt put the mercy seat above upon the ark, and there I will meet with thee.
The way into the holiest of all was not yet made manifest. — Jesus, when he had cried again with a loud voice, yielded up the ghost. And, behold, the veil of the temple was rent in twain from the top to the bottom.
Having ... brethren, boldness to enter into the holiest by the blood of Jesus, by a new and living way, which he hath consecrated for us, through the veil, that is to say, his flesh; ... let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water. — Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.
Christ Jesus: whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation [mercy seat] through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God. — Through him we have access by one Spirit unto the Father.
EXO. 25:21,22. Heb. 9:8. -Matt. 27:50,51. Heb. 10:19,20,22. -Heb. 4:16. Rom. 3:24,25. -Eph. 2:18.
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EVENING JUNE 18
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Faith as a grain of mustard seed.
Barak said unto [Deborah], if thou wilt go with me, then I will go: but if thou wilt not go with me, then I will not go. God subdued on that day Jabin the king of Canaan. — Gideon ... feared his father's household, and the men of the city, that he could not do it by day, ... did it by night. And Gideon said unto God, If thou wilt save Israel by mine hand as thou hast said, ... let me prove, I pray thee. And God did so.
Thou hast a little strength, and hast kept my word, and hast not denied my name. — Who hath despised the day of small things?
We are bound to thank God always for you, brethren, as it is meet, because that your faith groweth exceedingly. — Lord, increase our faith. — I will be as the dew unto Israel: he shall grow as the lily, cast forth his roots as Lebanon. His branches shall spread, and his beauty shall be as the olive tree, and his smell as Lebanon.
MATT. 17:20. Judg. 4:8,23. -Judg. 6:27,36,39,40. Rev. 3:8. -Zech. 4:10. II Thes. 1:3. -Luke 17:5. -Hos. 14:5,6.
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MORNING JUNE 19
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Holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord.
Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God. — There shall in no wise enter into it any thing that defileth. — There is no spot in thee.
Ye shall be holy: for I the Lord your God am holy. — As obedient children, not fashioning yourselves according to the former lusts in your ignorance: but as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation; because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy. And if ye call on the Father, who without respect of persons judgeth according to every man's work, pass the time of your sojourning here in fear. — Put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts; and be renewed in the spirit of your mind, and ... put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness. — He hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should he holy and without blame before him in love.
HEB. 2:14. John 3:3. -Rev. 21:27. -Song 4:7. Lev. 19:2. -I Pet. 1:14-17. -Eph. 4:22-24. -Eph. 1:4.
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EVENING JUNE 19
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Gold tried in the fire.
There is no man that hath left house, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my sake, and the gospel's, but he shall receive an hundredfold now in this time, houses, and brethren, and sisters, and mothers, and children, and lands, with persecutions; and in the world to come eternal life.
Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you. — Now for a season, if need be, ye are in heaviness through manifold temptations: that the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ.
The God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you. — In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.
REV. 3.18. Mark 10:29,30. I Pet. 4:l2. -I Pet. 1:6,7. I Pet.5:10. -John 16:33.
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MORNING JUNE 20
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Take this child away, and nurse it for me, and I will give thee thy wages.
Go ye ... into the vineyard, and whatsoever is right I will give you. — Whosoever shall give you a cup of water to drink in my name, because ye belong to Christ, verily I say unto you, he shall not lose his reward. — The liberal soul shall be made fat: and he that watereth shall be watered also himself. — God is not unrighteous to forget your work and labour of love, ...in that ye have ministered to the saints, and do minister.
Every man shall receive his own reward according to his own labour.
Lord, when saw we thee an hungered, and fed thee? or thirsty, and gave thee drink? When saw we thee a stranger, and took thee in? or naked, and clothed thee? And the King shall answer and say unto them, ... Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me. Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world.
EXO. 2:9. Matt. 20:4. -Mark 9:41. -Prov. 11:25. -Heb. 6:10. I Cor. 3:8. Matt. 25:37,38,40,34.
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EVENING JUNE 20
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Thou compassest my path and my lying down.
Jacob awaked out of his sleep, and he said, Surely the Lord is in this place; and I knew it not. And he was afraid and said, How dreadful is this place! this is none other but the house of God, and this is the gate of heaven.
The eyes of the Lord run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to shew himself strong in the behalf of them whose heart is perfect toward him.
I will both lay me down in peace, and sleep: for thou, Lord, only, makest me dwell in safety.
Because thou hast made the Lord, which is my refuge, even the most High, thy habitation; there shall no evil befall thee, neither shall any plague come nigh thy dwelling. For He shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways. — When thou liest down, thou shalt not be afraid: yea, thou shalt lie down, and thy sleep shall be sweet. — So he giveth his beloved sleep.
PSA. 139:3. Gen. 28:16,17. 2 Chr 16:9. Psa. 4:8. Psa. 91:9-11. -Prov. 3:24. -Psa. 127:2.
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MORNING JUNE 21
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Christ suffered for us, leaving us an example that ye should follow his steps.
Even the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister. — Whosoever of you will be the chiefest, shall be servant of all.
Jesus of Nazareth ... went about doing good. — Bear ye one another's bur-dens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.
The meekness and gentleness of Christ. — In lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves.
Father, forgive them: for they know not what they do. — Be ye kind one to another, tender-hearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you.
He that saith he abideth in him, ought himself also so to walk, even as he walked. — Looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.
I PET. 2:21. Mark 10:45. -Mark 10:44. Acts 10:38. -Gal. 6:2. II Cor. 10:1. -Php. 2:3. Luke 23:34. -Eph. 4:32. I John 2:6. -Heb. 12:2.
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EVENING JUNE 21
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I sought him, but I could not find him: I called him, but he gave me no answer.
O Lord, what shall I say, when Israel turneth their backs before their enemies! and the Lord said unto Joshua, Get thee up; wherefore liest thou thus upon thy face? Israel hath sinned, for they have even taken of the accursed thing ... and they have put it even among their own stuff.
Behold, the Lord's hand is not shortened, that it cannot save; neither his ear heavy, that it cannot hear: but your iniquities have separated between you and your God, and your sins have hid his face from you, that he will not hear.
If I regard iniquity in my heart, the Lord will not hear me.
Beloved, if our heart condemn us not, then have we confidence toward God. And whatsoever we ask, we receive of him, because we keep his command-ments, and do those things that are pleasing in his sight.
Song 5:6. Josh. 7:8,10,11. Isa. 59:1,2. Psa. 66:18. I John 3:21,22.
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MORNING JUNE 22
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Ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God.
How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein? — I am crucified with Christ, nevertheless I live; yet not I but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. — He died for all, that they which live should not live unto themselves, but unto him which died for them and rose again. — If any man be in Christ, he is a new creature; old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.
We are in him that is true, even in his Son Jesus Christ. — As thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us. — Ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular. — Because I live, ye shall live also.
To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the hidden manna, and wilt give him a white stone, and in the stone a new name written, which no man knoweth saving he that receiveth it.
COL. 3:3. Rom. 6:2. -Gal. 2:20. -II Cor. 5:15. -II Cor. 5:17. I John 5:20. -John 17:21. -I Cor. 12:27. -John 14:19. Rev. 2:17.
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EVENING JUNE 22
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Behold how he loved.
He died for all. — Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.
He ... liveth to make intercession for them. — I go to prepare a place for you.
I will come again, and receive you unto myself that where I am, there ye may be also. — Father, I will that they whom thou hast given me, be with me where I am. — Having loved his own which were in the world, he loved them unto the end.
We love him, because he first loved loved us. — The love of Christ con-straineth us; because we thus judge, that if one died for all, then were all dead: and that he died for all, that they which live should not henceforth live unto themselves, but to him which died for them, and rose again.
If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father's commandments, and abide in his love.
JOHN 11:36. II Cor. 5:15. -John 15:13. Heb. 7:25. -John 14:2. John 14:3. -John 17:24. -John 13:1. I John 4:19. -II Cor. 5:14,15. John 15:10.
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MORNING JUNE 23
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I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, even the Spirit of truth.
It is expedient for you that I go away: for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you; but if l depart, I will send him unto you.
The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God. — Ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father. — The Spirit ... helpeth our infirmities; for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered.
The God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost. — Hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us.
Hereby know we that we dwell in him and he in us, because he hath given us of his Spirit.
JOHN 14:16,17. John 16:7. Rom. 8:16. -Rom. 8:15. -Rom. 8:26. Rom. 15:13. -Rom. 5:5. I John 4:13.
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EVENING JUNE 23
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Shall I not seek rest for thee, that it may be well with thee?
There remaineth ... a rest to the people of God. — My people shall dwell in a peaceable habitation, and in sure dwellings, and in quiet resting places. — There the wicked cease from troubling; and there the weary be at rest. — They ... rest from their labours.
The forerunner is for us entered, even Jesus, made an high priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec.
Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavv laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light. — In returning and rest shall ye be saved; in quietness and in confidence shall be your strength.
The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.
RUTH 3:1. Heb. 4:9. -Isa. 32:18. -Job 3:17. -Rev. 14:13. Heb. 6:20. Matt. 11:28-30. -Isa. 30:15. Psa. 23:1,2.
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MORNING JUNE 24
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The ark of the covenant of the Lord went before them to search out a resting place for them.
My times are in thy hand. — He shall choose our inheritance for us. — Lead me, O Lord, in thy righteousness; ... make thy way straight before my face.
Commit thy way unto the Lord; trust also in him; and he shalt bring it to pass. — In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. — Thine ears shall hear a word behind thee, saying, This is the way, walk ye in it, when ye turn to the right hand, and when ye turn to the left.
The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures; he leadeth me beside the still waters. — Like as a father pitieth his children, so the Lord pitieth them that fear him. For he knoweth our frame; he remembereth that we are dust. — Your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things. — Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.
NUM. 10:33. Psa. 31:15. -Psa. 47:4. -Psa. 5:8. Psa. 37:5. -Prov. 3:6. -Isa. 30:21. Psa. 23:1,2. -Psa. 103:13,14. -Matt. 6:32. -I Pet. 5:7.
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EVENING JUNE 24
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Master, where dwellest thou? He saith unto them, Come and see.
In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also. — To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne.
Thus saith the high and lofty One that inhabiteth eternity, whose name is Holy; I dwell in the high and holy place, with him also that is of a contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive the heart of the contrite ones.
Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me.
Lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. — How excellent is thy lovingkindness, O God! therefore the children of men put their trust under the shadow of thy wings.
JOHN 1:38,39. John 14:2,3. -Rev. 3:21. Isa. 57:15. Rev. 3:20. Matt. 28:20. -Psa. 36:7.
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MORNING JUNE 25
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When he shall appear, we shall be like him; we shall see him as he is.
As many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name. — Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises; that by these we might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.
Since the beginning of the world men have not heard, nor perceived by the ear, neither hath the eye seen, O God, beside thee, what he hath prepared for him that waiteth for him.
Now we see through a glass. darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known. — Christ ... shall change our vile body ... that it may be fashioned like unto his glorious body, according to the working whereby he is able even to subdue all things unto himself. — As for me, I will behold thy face in righteousness: I shall be satisfied, when I awake, with thy likeness.
I JOHN 3:2. John 1:12. -II Pet. 1:4. Isa. 64:4. I Cor. 13:12. -Php. 3:20,21. -Psa. 17:15.
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EVENING JUNE 25
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The man that is my fellow, saith the Lord of hosts.
In him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily. — I have laid help upon one that is mighty; I have exalted one chosen out of the people. — I have trodden the winepress alone; and of the people there was none with me.
Great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh. — Unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given, and the government shall be upon his shoulder; and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The Everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.
The brightness of his glory, and the express image of his person, and upholding all things by the word of his power, when he had by himself purged our sins, sat down on the right hand of the majesty on high. — Unto the Son he saith, Thy throne, O God, is for ever and ever.
Let all the angels of God worship him.
Kings of kings, and Lord of lords.
ZECH. 13:7. Col. 2:9. -Psa. 89:19. -Isa. 63:3. I Tim. 3:16. -Isa. 9:6. Heb. 1:3. -Heb. 1:8. Heb. 1:6. Rev. 19:16.
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MORNING JUNE 26
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Oh that thou wouldest bless me indeed, and that thou wouldest keep me from evil! And God granted him that which he requested.
The blessing of the Lord, it maketh rich, and he addeth no sorrow with it. — When he giveth quietness, who then can make trouble? and when he hideth his face, who then can behold him?
Salvation belongeth unto the Lord: thy blessing is upon thy people. — How great is thy goodness, which thou hast laid up for them that fear thee; which thou hast wrought for them that trust in thee before the sons of men. — I pray not that thou shouldest take them out of the world, but that thou shouldest keep them from the evil.
Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: for every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened. — The Lord redeemeth the soul of his servants and none of them that trust in him shall be desolate.
1 Chr 4:10. Prov. l0:22. -Job 34:29. Psa. 3:8. -Psa. 31:19. -John 17:15. Matt. 7:7,8. -Psa. 34.22.
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EVENING JUNE 26
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It is a night to be much observed unto the Lord for bringing them out from the land of Egypt.
The Lord Jesus the same night in which he was betrayed took bread: and when he had given thanks, he brake it, and said, Take, eat: this is my body which is broken for you: this do in remembrance of me. After the same manner also he took the cup, when he had supped, saying, This cup is the new testament in my blood: this do ye, as oft as ye drink it, in remembrance of me.
He ... kneeled down, and prayed. And being in an agony he prayed more earnestly: and his sweat was as it were great drops of blood falling down to the ground.
It was the preparation of the passover, and about the sixth hour: ... they took Jesus, and led him away, ... into a place called ... Golgotha: where they crucified him.
Christ our passover is sacrificed for us: therefore let us keep the feast.
EXO. 12:42. I Cor. 11:23-25. Luke 22:41,44. John 19:14,16-18. I Cor. 5:7,8.
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MORNING JUNE 27
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Who shall be able to stand?
Who may abide the day of his coming? and who shall stand when he appeareth? for he is like a refiner's fire, and like fullers' soap.
I beheld, and, lo, a great multitude, which no man could number, of all nations, and kindreds, and peoples, and tongues, stood before the throne, and before the Lamb, clothed with white robes, and palms in their hands. These are they which came out of great tribulation, and have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb. They shall hunger no more, neither thirst any more: neither shall the sun light on them, nor any heat. For the Lamb, which is in the midst of the throne, shall feed them, and shall lead them unto living fountains of waters: and God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes.
There is no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. — Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free.
REV. 6:17. Mal.3:2. Rev. 7:9,14-17. Rom. 8:1. -Gal. 5:1.
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EVENING JUNE 27
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Enter not into judgment with thy servant: for in thy sight shall no man living be justified.
Come now, and let us reason together, saith the Lord: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool.
Let him take hold of my strength that he may make peace with me; and he shall make peace with me. — Acquaint now thyself with him, and be at peace.
Being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. — A man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ. — By the deeds of the law there shall no flesh be justified in his sight.
By him all that believe are justified from all things, from which ye could not be justified by the law of Moses.
Thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.
PSA. 143:2. Isa. 1:18. Isa. 27:5. -Job. 22:21. Rom. 5:1. -Gal. 2:16. -Rom. 3:20. Acts 13:39. I Cor. 15:57.
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MORNING JUNE 28
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I know that my Redeemer liveth.
If, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life. — This man, because he continueth ever, hath an unchangeable priesthood. Wherefore he is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by him, seeing he ever liveth to make intercession for them.
Because I live, ye shall live also. — If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men most miserable. But now is Christ risen from the dead, and become the firstfruits of them that slept.
The Redeemer shall come to Zion, and unto them that turn from transgression in Jacob, saith the Lord. — We have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace. — Ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain conversation received by tradition from your fathers; but with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot.
JOB 19:25. Rom. 5:10. -Heb. 7:24,25. John 14:19. -I Cor. 15:19,20. Isa. 59:20. -Eph. 1:7. -I Pet. 1:15,19.
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EVENING JUNE 28
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The Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits.
Take heed therefore how ye hear. — Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom. — Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked.
Great peace have they which love thy law: and nothing shall offend them. How sweet are thy words unto my taste! yea, sweeter than honey to my mouth! Through thy precepts I get understanding: therefore I hate every false way.
Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path. — I have more understanding than all my teachers: for thy testimonies are my meditation.
Satan himself is transformed into an angel ot light. — But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed.
I TIM. 4:1. Luke 8:18. -Co1. 3:16. -Eph. 6:16. Psa. 119:165,103,104. Psa. 119:105. -Psa. 119:99. II Cor. 11:14. -Gal. 1:8.
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MORNING JUNE 29
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His commandments are not grievous.
This is the will of him that sent me, that every one which seeth the Son, and believeth on him, may have everlasting life. — Whatsoever we ask, we receive of him, because we keep his commandments, and do those things that are pleasing in his sight.
My yoke is easy, and my burden is light. — If ye love me, keep my commandments. — He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him.
Happy is the man that findeth wisdom, and the man that getteth understanding. — Her ways are ways of pleasantness, and all her paths are peace. — Great peace have they which love thy law and nothing shall offend them. — I delight in the law of God after the inward man.
This is his commandment, That we should believe on the name of his Son Jesus Christ, and love one another. — Love worketh no ill to his neighbour: therefore love is the fulfilling of the law.
I JOHN 5:3. John 6:40. -I John 3:22. Matt. 11:30. -John 14:15,21. Prov. 3:13. -Prov. 3:17. -Psa. 119:165. -Rom. 7:22. I John 3:23. -Rom. 13:10.
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EVENING JUNE 29
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Remember not the sins of my youth, nor my transgressions.
I have blotted out, as a thick cloud, thy transgressions, and, as a cloud, thy sins. — I, even I, am he that blotteth out thy transgressions for mine own sake, and will not remember thy sins. — Come now, and let us reason together, saith the Lord: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool. — I will forgive their iniquity, and I will remember their sin no more. — Thou wilt cast all their sins into the depths of the sea.
Thou hast in love to my soul delivered it from the pit of corruption: for thou hast cast all my sins behind thy back. — Who is a God like unto thee, that pardoneth iniquity? ... he retaineth not his anger for ever, because he delighteth in mercy. — Unto him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in his own blood, to him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.
PSA. 25:7. Isa. 44:22. -Isa. 43:25. -Isa. 1:18. -Jer. 31:34. -Mic. 7:19. Isa. 38:17. -Mic. 7:18. -Rev. 1:5.
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MORNING JUNE 30
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As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten.
My son, despise not thou the chastening of the Lord, nor faint when thou art rebuked of him: for whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth. — Even as a father the son in whom he delighteth. — He maketh sore, and bindeth up: he woundeth, and his hands make whole. — Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time. — I have chosen thee in the furnace of affliction.
He doth not afflict willingly nor grieve the children of men. — He hath not dealt with us after our sins; nor rewarded us according to our iniquities. For as the heaven is high above the earth, so great is his mercy toward them that fear him. As far as the east is from the west, so far hath he removed our transgressions from us. Like as a father pitieth his children, so the Lord pitieth them that fear him. For he knoweth our frame; he remembereth that we are dust.
REV. 3:19. Heb. 12:5,6. -Prov. 3:12. -Job 5:18. -I Pet. 5:6. -Isa. 48:10. Lam. 3:33. -Psa. 103:10-14.
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EVENING JUNE 30
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God is in heaven, and thou upon earth: therefore let thy words be few.
When ye pray, use not vain repetitions, as the heathen do: for they think that they shall be heard for their much speaking. Be not ye therefore like unto them: for your Father knoweth what things ye have need of, before ye ask him.
They ... called on the name of Baal from morning even until noon, saying, O Baal, hear us.
Two men went up into the temple to pray; the one a Pharisee, and the other a publican. The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, God, I thank thee, that I am not as other men are, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this publican. And the publican, standing afar off, would not lift up so much as his eyes unto heaven, but smote upon his breast, saying, God be merciful to me a sinner. I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other.
Lord, teach us to pray.
ECCL. 5:2. Matt. 6:7,8. I Kgs. 18:26. Luke 18:10,11,13,14. Luke 11:1.
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Comment on Morning June 01
There is simply no hope for fallen men, if God is not merciful and gracious. That does not mean that in His Sovereign mercy and grace, He must save everyone of the human race, head for head. His mercy is sovereign. He will have mercy on whom He will have mercy. Our salvation is totally in His hand. Salvation is of the Lord.
People who are saved by this mecy of the Lord, shows mercy to others around them. Blessed are the merciful for they shall obtain mercy. If we are the product of the work of God's Holy Spirit, then we also bear forth His fruit. "The fruit of the Spirit is longsuffering, gentleness." (Gal. 5:22)
"The Lord, the Lord God, merciful and gracious, longsuffering, and abundant in goodness and truth." (Exo. 34:6) That was what Moses was given to see when he asked to see the Lord. God reveals Himself to us as the God of Salvation. If you truly know Him and would speak of Him in this world, you cannot help but speak of Him in relation to His work of salvation from sin ad its miseries. Many try to speak of God in other context and end up humanistic in theology.
"Walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called, with all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love. — Be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you. — The wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy. — Charity suffereth long, and is kind." (Eph. 4:1, 2, 32; Jam. 3:17; 1Co. 13:4) As God does not save us as individuals unrelated to each other, but as members of the Body of Christ, He would have us show the Spirit's fruit of longsuffering and gentleness towards each other. We must be very forgiving even as God for Christ's sake has forgiven us, unworthy creatures.
"In due season we shall reap, if we faint not. — Be patient therefore, brethren, unto the coming of the Lord. Behold, the husbandman waiteth for the precious fruit of the earth, and hath long patience for it, until he receive the early and latter rain. Be ye also patient; stablish your hearts: for the coming of the Lord draweth nigh." (Gal. 6:9; Jam. 5:7, 8) In well-doing we are not to faint, but to persevere till the time of reward from our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ. Let us not give up in the cause of Truth, for He had already triumphed over the evil one and is now at the right hand of God.
Do you know what shall prevail finally at the Judgment Seat of God?
Comment on Evening June 01
Jesus is "Emmanuel, ... God with us." (Mat. 1:23)
"Will God in very deed dwell with men on the earth? behold, heaven and the heaven of heavens cannot contain thee." (2Ch. 6:18) If God Almighty created the "heaven and the heaven of heaves", then certainly He is greater than them. And earth, which is lower than them, would even be far below the Almighty. "Will God in very deed dwell with men on the earth?" Yet, Scriptures clearly teach so!
"The Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth. — Great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh." (Joh. 1:14; 1Ti. 3:16) When we consider the vastness of the universe, Earth is less than a speck of dust. But, to date, scientists have yet found another place like Earth, where there are so many life forms! God chooses to dwell with men, not just because there are living creatures there. He would speak to us.
"God hath in these last days spoken unto us by his Son, whom he hath appointed heir of all things, by whom also he made the worlds." (Heb. 1:2) Through man prophets God had already spoke to men, but now in the final age, He came Himself in the person of Jesus Christ to speak to us personally.
Jesus is our Saviour, and no Christians should doubt that. But to confess Him as God Almighty, there are those who deny and doubt to their own damnation. God's Word reveals clearly that Jesus is God. "The first day of the week, when the doors were shut where the disciples were assembled, ... came Jesus and stood in the midst. Then were the disciples glad, when they saw the Lord. After eight days again his disciples were within, and Thomas with them. Then saith [Jesus] to Thomas, Reach hither thy finger, and behold my hands; and reach hither thy hand, and thrust it into my side: and be not faithless, but believing. Thomas ... said, My Lord and my God. — Unto us a Son is given: the mighty God." (John 20:19,20,26-28. -Isa. 9:6) We must realize that our fallen situation is so bad that it takes God to save us. We must be eternally thankful for His willingness to become a man to come to our rescue.
Do you now understand why it is blashemous to suggest that Jesus Christ is insufficient in Himself to save us?
Comment on Morning June 02
It would be most foolish for a traveler to furnish his hotel room to be as comfortable and convenient as his own room at home. As a traveler, he has a destination and cannot settle down until he has reach his destination. Whatever attract him along the way, he knows they are distractions, if he does not handle them properly.
The children of Israel were going a long journey to the promised land. They were going to eat their last meal before the trip commenced suddenly. The instruction from God was: "Thus shall ye eat it; with your loins girded, and ye shall eat it in haste: it is the Lord's passover." (Exo. 12:11) The Lord's passover calls for haste and readiness to move at moment's notice. This does not mean that we do not count the cost, but, it simply means we have already counted and are always ready to go.
"Arise ye, and depart; for this is not your rest. — Here have we no continuing city, but we seek one to come. — There remaineth therefore a rest for the people of God." (Mic. 2:10; Heb. 13:14; 4:9) Only when we are finally united with the Bridegroom in the Marriage Supper of the Lamb, do we find our rest. Meanwhile, ...
"Let your loins be girded about, and your lights burning; and ye yourselves like unto men that wait for their lord, when he will return from the wedding; that when he cometh and knocketh, they may open unto him immediatety. Blessed are those servants, whom the lord when he cometh shall find watching." (Luk. 12:35-37)
Whatever happen to us should serve our pilgrim progress. We should never allow ourselves to become discouraged and to give up while we are on the way. "Gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and hope to the end for the grace that is to be brought unto you at the revelation of Jesus Christ. — This one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, ... I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. Let us therefore, as many as be perfect, be thus minded," (1Pe. 1:13. -Php. 3:13-15)
Is there a better way than the Way, the Truth and the Life? Let us press on for He is fairest than ten thousands, the rose of Sharon and the Lily of the valley.
Comment on Evening June 02
We accumulate many things in life as we live. Few, if any, after so many years are still found naked, just as he first came into this world. Even the cyclone victims in Myanmar, start accumulating as soon as they are able. Among all our accumulation do we get the most valuable Gift from God?
"The Lord is the portion of mine inheritance and of my cup." (Psa. 16:5) Many precious things in life are freely given to us at no charge. In fact, all priceless things cannot be sold, but given as gift. The most prcious gift from God is God Himself.
If God Himself be ours, then all His are also ours. "Heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ. — All things are your's. — My beloved is mine. — The Son of God ... loved me, and gave himself for me." (Rom. 8:17; 1Co. 3:21; Sos. 2:16; Gal. 2:20)
To the priests of old, "The Lord spake unto Aaron, Thou shalt have no inheritance in their land, neither shalt thou have any part among them: I am thy part and thy inheritance among the children of Israel." (Num. 8:20) We are made His priests in Christ: "And hath made us kings and priests unto God and his Father; to him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen" (Rev. 1:6)
"Whom have I in heaven but thee? and there is none upon earth that I desire beside thee. My flesh and my heart faileth: but God is the strength of my heart, and my portion forever." (Psa. 73:25, 26) For us, believers, it is either here on earth or else up there in heaven. Blessed are all those who find their comfort in Him Who is their strength both now and forever.
"Though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. — I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that he is able to keep that which I have committed unto him against that day." (Psa. 23:4; 1Ti. 1:12) All our afflictions in this life are but His training us to walk with Him and to rely upon Him.
"O God, thou art my God; early will I seek thee: my soul thirsteth for thee, my flesh longeth for thee in a dry and thirsty land." (Psa. 63:1) It is never too early to seek God. The benefit is tremendous.
Is God calling you to seek Him while He may be found? What are you waiting for?
Comment on Morning June 03
Jesus is coming again and many signs around us are pointing to that great event in the history of mankind - signs which Jesus Himself gave when He was with us and we asked Him for them. He let us know these signs exactly because He also want us to be prepared for His return.
"Watch, for ye know neither the day nor the hour wherein the Son of man cometh." (Mat. 25:13) Watching does not mean that we go about calculating for the exact day and time of His return. Rather, that we be spiritually prepared to meet Him in the air. Many things are happening to us in this life, especially in these last days and age, where there are all kinds of explosions around us. Things happen in big ways and come suddenly with a big bang. And many are thrown into confusion and in their confusion victimized. We are not those who are without the light of God's Word to guide us.
"Take heed to yourselves, lest at any time your hearts be overcharged with surfeiting, and drunkenness, and cares of this life, and so that day come upon you unawares. For as a snare shall it come on all them that dwell on the face of the whole earth. Watch ye therefore, and pray always, that ye may be accounted worthy to escape all these things that shall come to pass, and to stand before the Son of man." (Luk. 21:34-36) Be watchful and prayerful. Do your devotion regularly. Spend quiet time with God.
"The day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night. For when they shall say, Peace and safety; then sudden destruction cometh upon them, as travail upon a woman with child; and they shall not escape. But ye, brethren, are not in darkness, that that day should overtake you as a thief. Ye are all the children of light, and the children of the day; we are not of the night, nor of darkness. Therefore let us not sleep, as do others; but let us watch and be sober." (1Th. 5:2-6) The more comfortable you feel, the more you should be on a watch out. It would really be a shameful thing, when a Christian is caught unprepared for the Lord's Return, because His Word has so warned us in many places.
Would there be things concerning His Kingdom, which you would like to talk to the Lord about, when you meet Him?
Comment on Evening June 03
Walking is to move from one place to another at a comfortable pace to last as long as possible. Therefore walking is used in Scriptures to depict our life experiences with God from day to day. In walking we can relax and talk to one another, enjoying the fellowship. "I am the Almighty God; walk before me, and be thou perfect." (Gen. 17:1) As we walk with God, we must take note that He is the Almighty God and that He wants us to be perfect. No, not that we should be perfect first before we can walk with Him. But that we be perfect in Christ by His work on the Cross, and be desirous to be perfect like He is perfect.
"Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect. I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus." (Php. 3:12-14) We fail every now and then, but we should never be discouraged, but arise again and again to fight the good fight of faith. God never despise a broken and contrite heart. If we are humble and teachable we can always find sweet communion with the Lord.
"Enoch walked with God and he was not; for God took him." (Gen. 5:24) God takes great delight in people who truly walk with Him. Too often we grieve the Holy Spirit by the way we live. That makes the walk not very pleasant.
"Grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. — We all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord." (2Pe. 3:18; 2Co. 3:18) Meaningful walking speaks of progress towards one's destination. Walking with God is a matter of growth to be more like Christ. As we walk we see our unworthy self and see what Christ is like. We see Him and long very much to be like Him. Somehow, our admiration of Him lead us to be more like Him. This is the work of the Holy Spirit in us.
"These words spake Jesus, I pray not that thou shouldest take them out of the world, but that thou shouldest keep them from the evil. I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one." (John 17:1,15,23) We are left here to walk with God and experience what it is like to be kept from evil.
What are some of the stories about your walk with God, which you would like to share in heaven one day to the glory and praise of His Name?
Comment on Morning June 04
The human nature far excel the nature of other mammal, especially in the unique brain that it has. But in other respect, it may not be as glorious. For example, as a creature, a human being cannot just jump up and fly away into the air like the bird, soaring gloriously into the sky. So the human nature is limited in glory all by itself. Our Lord Jesus Christ is God in human flesh and He is glorious.
"That which was made glorious had no glory in this respect by reason of the glory that excelleth." (2Co. 3:10) Jesus is 100% man and as such by itself is limited in glory and has no glory at all when compared with the glory of God. But in Christ, the Incarnate, the glory of God shines through and lifts up even that human nature of Christ to the highest glory posible.
"The glory of this latter house shall be greater than of the former, and in this place will I give peace." (Hag. 2:9) It is what the house contain that determines the degree of glory and not the material of the house. Materially speaking, Solomon's Temple was far more glorious than what the people in Ezra's day was about to build. But the prophet said that the latter house has glory greater thant the former. The reason was the "peace" which God will give to the latter. Jesus is our peace.
"The house that is to be builded for the Lord must be exceeding magnifical, of fame and of glory throughout all countries. — The glory of the Lord ... filled the Lord's house." (1Ch. 22:5; 2Ch. 7:2) If we love the Lord we would want the best for Him. We will ensure that the best house is built for Him to His Honour and Praise. But, having said that, we must ever remember and propagate the idea that the glory of His House lies in Him Who is pleased to dwell within the frail and unworthy house, and not in the house iteself.
"Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up. He spake of the temple of his body. — The Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father) full of grace and truth. — God ... hath in these last days spoken unto us by his Son, whom he hath appointed heir of all things, by whom also he made the worlds." (Joh. 2:19-21; 1:14; Heb. 1:1, 2) Our body is the temple of the Holy Spirit and we must take the best care of it, but it is in Him Who dwells in us that lift up our glory and not in ourselves.
"Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men. — The Prince of Peace. — He is our peace. — The peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus." (Luke 2:14. -Isa. 9:6. -Eph. 2:14. -Php. 4:7)
Wherein lies your glory?
Comment on Evening June 04
What is the purpose of light in this world? All God's creatures serve multi-purposes, but they each do have their own main purpose which is obvious to all. Light serves to reveal the surrounding physical environment that those that can see may find their organs of seeing meaningful. Believers are children of the light. This obviously means that they are for the light and all that light stands for. They promote the ideas of the revelation of the truth for the purpose that all around may be given a bright environment to see if they can.
"Let us put on the armour of light." (Rom. 13:12) In biblical time, when a man put on the armour, it is because he is going to battle against the enemies. For believers to ensure a bright environment, it is a matter of going to war against the powers of darkness. It is foolishness to go into the battlefield without the armour. Our wise Captain would not any of His soldiers to do so.
"Put ... on the lord Jesus Christ. — That I may win Christ, and be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith. — The righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe." (Rom. 13:14; Php. 3:8, 9; Rom. 3:22) Anyone who teaches justification by our own works (be they ever so little bit) is disarming the people of God, giving up the fight and a false teacher not from the Lord.
"He hath covered me with the robe of righteousness. — I will go in the strength of the Lord God: I will make mention of thy righteousness, even of thine only." (Isa. 61:10; Psa. 71:16) We should rightly reject the armours provided by the false teachers, the "Sauls" of this world, but to reject the clothing of our Captain with His own righteousness is a dangerous things to do. I you have to speak about your armour, may it be about his righteousness and his only.
Are you a Christian? If so, "Ye were sometime darkness, but now are ye light in the Lord: walk as children of Light. Have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness but rather reprove them. All things that are reproved are made manifest by the light: for whatsoever doth make manifest is light. Awake thou that sleepest, and rise from the dead, and Christ shall give thee light. See then that ye walk circumspectly." (Eph. 5:8,11,13-15) People who reprove "the unfruitful works of darkness" are often thought of a bigots, self-assured individuals. If we think so, then we must be careful lest we end up condemning those who are simply trying to obey their Lord and Master. What we must do is to listen carefully and prayerfully that we may know which way the Lord is leading us.
Why are there so much uncertainty in life when light is all around us? Or, is the light really all around us? If not, where are the children of light in this world?
Comment on Morning June 05
It is not the Holy Spirit of Scriptures that speaks of our good works as worthy of meritorious reward. According to the Spirit, it takes the second creation in Christ Jesus to bring out that good works which God has ordained for His people - the works done in our state of sanctification. (Eph. 2:10) These works are attributed to us graciously and not meritoriously. As such a true saint would never try to claim merit from them. Thus the rewards of grace in contrast with the rewards of merit. At all times we know our unprofitableness even though we are awared of the "rewards of grace" that are coming. "When ye shall have done all those things which are commanded you, say, We are unprofitable servants." (Luk. 17:10)
"Where is boasting then? It Is excluded. By what law? of works? Nay: but by the law of faith." (Rom. 3:27) Every child of God knows that boasting is unbecoming of him or her. To live godly boasting must be done away with. And that is to be done not by the principle of works, but by that of faith. We never secure our proper standing with God by what we do, but by faith in what we believe Christ has done for us.
"What hast thou that thou didst not receive? now if thou didst receive it, why dost thou glory, as if thou hadst not received it? — By grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God: not of works, lest any man should boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them." (1Co. 4:7; Eph. 2:8-10) It is in our carnal nature to take things of grace for granted, and our calling is to put off the old man and put on the new one. This we must do personally and also corporately as a Church. Where we see the ugly head surfacing we must quickly put it down.
The Apostle Paul set us the example. He confessed: "By the grace of God I am what I am: and his grace which was bestowed upon me was not in vain; but I laboured more abundantly than they all: yet not I, but the grace of God which was with me. — For of him, and through Him, and to Him, are all things. — All things come of thee and of thine own have we given thee." (1Co. 15:10; Rom 11:36; 1Ch. 29:14) Are we apostolic?
"Enter not into judgment with thy servant: for in thy sight shall no man living be justified." (Psa. 143:2) Only when our judgments are fallen on Christ do we have hope. Let us not try justification by any other means than what God has provided in Christ.
Are you trying to add a bit of your good works to your garment of righteousness at the Marriage Supper of the Lamb?
Comment on Evening June 05
Physically, man is made up of a handful of dust. It is a great wonder of God's creative work when such a creature as man was first made to live and move! And ever "He knoweth our frame; he remembereth that we are dust." (Psa. 103:14) Most men often forget that important fact resulting in the boastful ways most of their lives.
But man is also more than the mere physical part. "The Lord God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul." (Gen. 2:7) A living soul is the breath of life from God taking its unique character according to the living activities in that particular body. As man was made after the image and likeness of God, each soul is expected to reveal that glory of God in its own unique way.
A soul in its right state would say: "I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvellous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well. My substance was not hid from thee, when I was made in secret. Thine eyes did see my substance, yet being unperfect; and in thy book all my members were written, which in continuance were fashioned, when as yet there was none of them." (Psa. 139:14-16) God ordained all the details of every soul that ever exists in this world. Blessed are all souls that fear God and can praise Him for His determination of all things.
"Have we not all one father? Hath not one God created us? — In him we live, and move, and have our being. — Like as a father pitieth his children, so the Lord pitieth them that fear him." (Mal. 2:10; Acts 17:28; Psa. 103:13) It is good to have the pity of One Who determins all things. After all we are only but dust to begin with.
"He, being full of compassion, forgave their iniquity, and destroyed them not: yea, many a time turned he his anger away, and did not stir up all his wrath. For he remembered that they were but flesh; a wind that passeth away, and cometh not again." (Psa. 78:38,39)
How must you view yourself in order to have peace with God?
Comment on Morning June 06
God is the Almighty Who creates and control all things according to His own good pleasure. Rest to Him is to be contented and satisfied. He is ever restful because He is ever contented and satisfied even in all His activities. He is love and "He will rest in his love." (Zeph. 3:17) There can be no mistake nor regret in His love. His love brings Him absolute satisaction and delight. Blessed are all the objects of His love.
"The Lord did not set his love upon you, nor choose you, because ye were more in number than any people; for ye were the fewest of all people: but because the Lord loved you. — We love him, because he first loved us. — You ... hath he reconciled in the body of his flesh through death, to present you holy and unblameable and unreproveable in his sight." (Deut. 7:7,8; 1Jo. 4:19; Col. 1:21, 22) God's love towards His people is unconditional and never because of anything found in us whether it be of our unavoidable nature, doing or attainment. The only reason for setting His love upon us is His love for us. For that we love Him and are saved and transformed by Him.
"Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins. — God commendeth his love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us." (1Jo. 4:10; Rom. 5:8) People who have true love are too shy to talk about their love for God because they are fully aware of its unworthiness and imperfection in the full awareness of another love which outshine all others. They speak and boast of the love of God in Jesus Christ.
"Lo, a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. — Therefore doth my Father love me, because I lay down my life, that I might take it again. — His son ... who being the brightness of his glory, and the express image of his person, and upholding all things by the word of his power, when he had by himself purged our sins, sat down on the right hand of the majesty on high." (Mat. 3:17; Joh. 10:17; Heb. 1:2, 3) The Triune God loves us and there is love even within themselves. This love seeks our good and is a great manifestation of their internal love. Therefore the life of God is the Life of the Covenant. The Covenant of Grace is the Covenant of Love. It is unconditional all the way in the very being of God. We have no idea into what depth we have plunged ourselves and to what height the Lord Almighty has lifted us up to.
Have we seen the depth of our sin and the height of God's love? Should we speak of them if we have not? How shall we witness if we do not speak of them? What is our warrant for speaking of them? Does enthusiasm call for perfect knowledge?
Comment on Evening June 06
In the Old Testament era, God's people were saved also by Christ Jesus, our Lord. They lived before the incarnation of Christ and therefore did not know the details of His life on earth as we know it today from the Gospels. However, they did know that Jehovah would come personally to save them through the prophetic, priestly and kingly ministry - the Messianic Ministry. All their prophets called the coming one the "Messiah" or "Christ" (in Greek). In the Old Testament era, faith in Christ was manifested in following the system of tabernacle or temple worship as revealed by God to Moses and Aaron. That was their way of service and worship shown to the God of their salvation.
For us in the New Testament era, there is a "new and living way." (Heb. 10:20) Without this way we are separated from the presence of the Lord, without hope and damned like Cain of old. "Cain went out from the presence of the Lord. — Your iniquities have separated between you and your God, and your sins have hid his face from you. — Without holiness, no man shall see the Lord." (Gen. 4:16; Isa. 59:2; Heb. 12:14) The new and living way is the way of Christ.
Christ said: "I am the way, and the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me. — Our Saviour Jesus Christ ... hath abolished death, and hath brought life and immortality to light through the gospel." (Joh. 14:6; 2Ti. 1:10) This is the way of holiness and lead to the holiest of all. Let us follow Him all the way there.
"The way into the holiest of all was not yet made manifest, while as the first tabernacle was yet standing. — He is our peace, who hath made both one, and hath broken down the middle wall of partition between us. — The veil of the temple was rent in twain from the top to the bottom." (Heb. 9:8; Eph. 2:14; Mat. 27:51) In the new and living way there is no "middle wall of partition between us." That is the reason Christians strive to unite in the truth of His Word, in that which sanctifies. To call for a cessation of such striving or "contending for the faith" in this present world, is not of the Spirit of Christ. Such striving is a call to speak up one's conviction in the love of Christ for the true unity. That is the "new and living way."
"Strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it. — Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in thy presence is fulness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore." (Matt. 7:14. -Psa 16:11) We like to have a lot of space surrounding us and so we often reject the "strait gate" and "narrow way" thinking that it will lead to imprisonment and death, eternal isolation. But such a way in this present evil world actually leads to life and joy for evermore, the true liberty in God.
Which temple do you go to worship these days?
Comment on Morning June 07
"Men ought always to pray, and not to faint." (Luk. 18:1) To faint in a physical sense means to become unconscious. This means to experience black out and be put out of action in whatever he may have been doing just prior to fainting. Spiritually, there are believers who faint and are put out of action. When such things happen too often such a believer is as good as dead in as far as service to God is concern. Man ought not to faint. Man was created in the first place to serve God and His glory, and he ought not to faint, but actively speak of His praises in this wonderful world.
Instead of fainting, man ought always to pray. To pray is to call upon God for that by which he serves his God and fellow creatures. Man was created God-dependent. When he rebelled against God, he became creature-dependent. So he worship all forms of idols, including himself. He ought always to pray to the true and living God. That is the only way to combat fainting and remain alert and in action.
"Which of you shall have a friend, and shall go unto him at midnight, and say unto him, Friend, lend me three loaves; for a friend of mine in his journey is come to me and I have nothing to set before him? And he from within shall answer and say, Trouble me not: the door is now shut, and my children are with me in bed; I cannot rise and give thee. I say unto you, Though he will not rise and give him, because he is his friend, yet because of his importunity he will rise and give him as many as he needeth. — Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints." (Luk. 11:5-8; Eph. 6:18) It is well-doing to pray and in well-doing we must not faint, but be in constant prayer and supplication. The God to Whom we pray is all-knowing and also all-faithful, good and kind. If we are sincerely praying for the good of others and His glory, let us not be ashamed to ask of Him. There is no better person to turn to for such things than to this God. We should persevere in such prayer and not to give up easily. Often people cannot persevere in prayer because the things they ask are with ulterior motive and they themselves know better and soon stop asking.
"I will not let thee go, except thou bless me. — As a prince hast thou power with God and with men. — Continue in prayer, and watch in the same with thanksgiving." (Gen. 32:26, 28; Col. 4:2) Jacob's name was chnaged to "Israel" because of that noble character of persevering in prevailing prayer. Christians are the true children of Israel.
"[Jesus] went out into a mountain to pray, and continued all night in prayer to God." (Luke 6:12) A very wise, busy man is also a very prayful man.
Are you doing what you ought to as a Christian?
Comment on Evening June 07
The salvation of any human person is all about the forgiveness of his sins. Sin is not merely a thought, word or deed that hurts another or oneself. Sin is a violation of the law of God. Sin is either a failure to do what God commands or a doing of what God forbids. Not knowing what God says in no excuse as Adam, the first man, was created with the true knowledge of God. In man's imperfect conscience to day, man knows enough of God so as to be without excuse whenever he sins against God. Sin brought separation from God and thus eternal condemnation for this most high rebellion against the Government of God.
If a man is to be saved, he must acknowledge his sins and desire to be forgiven by God. He must cry to Him, "Forgive all my sins." (Psa. 25:18) This getting right with God the Mighty Creator is first and most important before getting right in all other relationships which he might have with other creatures.
"Come now, and let us reason together, saith the Lord: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool." (Isa. 1:18) It is unreasonable to find the excuse for not confessing one's sins to God, by saying that one's sins are too great to be forgiven anyway. It is unbelief that the blood of Christ is able to cleanse us from all our sins.
"Be of good cheer; thy sins be forgiven thee. — I, even I, am he that blotteth out thy transgressions for mine own sake, and will not remember thy sins." (Mat. 9:2; Isa. 43:25) No matter how load of our heavy our sins may be, we can be of good cheer when it is God Almighty Himself Who cleanses us. That is why there is no hope nor comfort for all those whose saviour is not their God.
"The Son of man hath power on earth to forgive sins. — In Whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace. — Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost; which he shed on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Saviour. — Having forgiven you all trespasses, blotting out the handwriting of ordinances that was against us, which was contrary to us, and took it out of the way, nailing it to his cross." (Mat. 9:6; Eph. 1:7; Tit. 3:5,6; Col. 2:13,14)
"Bless the Lord, O my soul, ... who forgives all thine iniquities." (Psa. 103:2,3) Amen.
On our way to heaven what must we never ever get tire of doing?
Comment on Evening June 09
FIGHTING OUR DEFEATED ENEMIES
Satan, the devil, and all his co-horts are our enemies in the battle of the Christian faith. Fighting against them we are not fighting a losing battle. In fact, they are principally defeated already, even though at times they may seem to be having the upper hand. "The triumphing of the wicked is short." (JOB 20:5)
The wicked often rejoice over the righteous and even redicule them because of their apparent victory. But God's Word says that such trimph is short - only temporary according to God's design. This is so because the head of our enemies, Satan, is already a defeated foe. As to the head, so shall the whole body finally. In this battle, Jesus Christ, our Head, was promised: "Thou shalt bruise his heel. — This is your hour, and the power of darkness." (Gen. 3:15. -Luke 22:53) Christ did that by joining us in the battle of faith. "As the children are partakers of flesh and blood he also himself likewise took part of the same; that through death he might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil. — Having spoiled principalities and powers, he made a shew of them openly, triumphing over them in it." (Heb. 2:14. -Col. 2:15)
Though defeated, the devil is still struggling to do as much damage as he possibly can to God's people and the glorious Name of our God. We must therefore continue to be stedfast in this battle and have a real taste of our victory in Christ. "Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about seeking whom he may devour: whom resist stedfast in the faith. — Resist the devil, and he will flee from you." (I Pet. 5:8,9. -Jas. 4:7) How good it is to see the devil fleeing from us!
The wicked will never give up, but "... plotteth against the just, and gnasheth upon him with his teeth. The Lord shall laugh at him: for he seeth that his day is coming. — The God of peace shall bruise Satan under your feet shortly. — The devil ... was cast into the lake of fire and brimstone ... and shall be tormented day and night for ever and ever." (Psa. 37:12,13. -Rom. 16:20. -Rev. 20:10) Is it not a good and happy thing to know that the Almighty is on our side in this battle? We must be patient in this battle as the exact time appointed for its complete victory is not revealed to us and, meanwhile, we are to be faithfully engaged in the battle.
Are you still in the battlefield?
Comment on Evening June 10
Forgiving one another in a Christian community in this world is indeed a very important thing to do constantly if such a community is to function in unity and strength. This is because of the reality of our actual sins (repented of or otherwise) from day to day. Moreover, Christians are followers of Christ. "As Christ forgave you, so also do ye." (Col. 3:13)
On this matter of forgiving others, Christ, the Head of the Church, was very clear in His teachings: "There was a certain creditor which had two debtors: the one owed five hundred pence, and the other fifty. And when they had nothing to pay, he frankly forgave them both. — I forgave thee all that debt; shouldest not thou also have had compassion on thy fellow-servant, even as I had pity on thee?" (Luk. 7:41, 42; Mat. 18:32,33) Big or small, we must learn to forgive.
Such an unforgiving spirit is so uncharacteristic of Christians, that its presence gives rise to doubt of one's status before God. "When ye stand praying, forgive, if ye have ought against any: that your Father also which is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses. But if ye do not forgive, neither will your Father which is in heaven forgive your trespasses. — Put on as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering; forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any." (Mar. 11:25,26; Col. 3:12,13)
As to the number of times to forgive another, Jesus was very clear in Mat. 18:21. He said: "I say not unto thee, Until seven times: but, until seventy times seven." Just try to forgive genuinely for 490 times and you will know what it means to forgive and how many times to do so.
"Charity ... is the bond of perfectness." (Col. 3:14)
Do we wish to be perfect without the charity that forgives?
Comment on Morning June 13
I am using a computer note-book to type this message to you. If this machine is without a battery it can still operate if the power to run it is taken from the a power point in my home. The moment this gadget is cut from the power supply, it just goes blank and ceases to function. It must abide with the power supply to be kept "alive".
Our Lord's instruction to "Abide in me, and I in you." (Joh. 15:4) is a matter of life and death, just like my computer. Without Him we can do nothing spiritual, accompanying salvation.
"I am crucified with Christ; nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me." (Gal. 2:20) In Him, all the penalty of our sins are dealt with and we also fulfilled all righteousness as witness by the Law. He in us is the hope of glory as we can see that we are being transformed from glory to glory.
"I know that in me (that is, in my flesh,) dwelleth no good thing: for to will is present with me; but how to perform that which is good I find not. O wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me from the body of this death? I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord. — If Christ be in you, the body is dead because of sin, but the Spirit is life because of righteousness. — If ye continue in the faith grounded and settled, and be not moved away from the hope of the gospel, which ye have heard." (Rom. 7:18,24,25; 8:10; Col. 1:23) It is in this abiding by faith in Christ that keeps vital spiritual life in us. There is simply no life to begin with and to operate and grow if this abiding is not existing.
"Little children, abide in him; that, when he shall appear, we may have confidence, and not be ashamed before him at his coming. — He that saith he abideth in him ought himself also so to walk, even as he walked." (1Jo. 2:28, 6) Abiding in Christ is a matter of getting ourselves ready for His Second Coming in the glory of His Father, to judge all things and usher in the New Heavens and the New Earth, wherein dwell rightouesness. Amen.
Are you still connected?
Comment on Evening June 13
Who is this Son of God, whom all Christians claim to believe?
The Almighty Creator of all things reveals Himself in His Word as God Triune. He speaks of Himself as the Source of all things and all beings. The content of what He says, His very Word, is He Himself, by whom and for whom all things created. (Joh. 1:1-3) He is also that very Living Power Who controls over all things absolutely. The Son of God is that Second Person of the Godhead, the very Word of God.
He is the "brightness of his glory, and the express image of his person. — The blessed and only Potentate, the King of kings, and Lord of lords; who only hath immortality, dwelling in the light which no man can approach unto; whom no man hath seen, nor can see: to whom be honour and power everlasting. Amen. — I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending, saith the Lord, which is, and which was, and which is to come, the Almighty." (Heb. 1:3; 1Ti. 6:15,16; Rev. 1:8) Jesus is that very Word of God made flesh and dwell among us. (Joh. 1:14)
Is it not a shameful thing that the very Word of God, by whom all things are and were created, should come right into our midst and we not aware of it? "Dost thou believe on the Son of God?" (Joh. 9:35) Would you not respond like the man in Joh. 9:36? He said: "Who is he, Lord, that I might believe on him?"
Blessed are all those who can say, "Lord, I believe. — I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that he is able to keep that which I have committed unto him against that day." (Joh. 9:38; 2Ti. 1:12)
The coming of the Word of God is exactly to save a people out of the fallen race of man. In that salvation men are restored to speak of the glory of God in His Creation. This Word is therefore most precious to those who believe. "Behold, I lay in Sion a chief corner stone, elect, precious: and he that believeth on him shall not be confounded. Unto you therefore which believe he is precious." (1Pe. 2:6,7)
Do you know what is required for one to live and die peacefully and happily?
Comment on Morning June 14
To console is to comfort in times of sufferings. We all need consolation at one time or another in this life because here is our pilgrimage we are confronted with much sufferings. There are many different kinds of sufferings and for many different reasons. Not all sufferings call for godly consolation. But the sufferings of Christ certainly have their accompanying consolation.
"As the sufferings of Christ abound in us, so our consolation also aboundeth by Christ." (2Co. 1:5) In the midst of God's people we can expect to see the "sufferings of Christ". When we do suffer we must honestly ask ourselves if ours is named among such sufferings. It is possible for a believer to suffering for his own wrong doings, and to attribute such as "sufferings of Christ" would be unbecoming of a believer.
Among those who suffer for Christ's sake, there is a fellowship which gives consolation and much strength and joy. "The fellowship of his sufferings. — Rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ's sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy. — For if we be dead with him, we shall also live with him. — If children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together." (Php. 3:10; 1Pe. 4:13; 2Ti. 2:11; Rom. 8:17)
God Himself is involved in such a fellowship as He takes personal interest in such sufferings and would encourage all who are thus afflicted. "God, willing more abundantly to shew unto the heirs of promise the immutability of his counsel, confirmed it by an oath: that by two immutable things, in which it was impossible for God to lie, we might have a strong consolation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold upon the hope set before us. — Our Lord Jesus Christ Himself, and God, even our Father, which hath loved us, and hath given us everlasting consolation and good hope through grace, comfort your hearts, and stablish you in every good word and work." (Heb. 6:17,18; 2Th. 2:16,17)
What kind of consolation are you getting for your suffering in this world?
Comment on Evening June 14
What is considered a small matter by one may be big by another. Our sense of the true value of things are so marred by our sins that we are truly confused, troubled and unsure of ourselves. Compared to Mary, her sister, Martha was indeed having her priority wrong on that day of the Lord's visit to her home. The Lord said to her, "Martha, Martha, thou art careful and troubled about many things." (Luk. 10:41) Here the Lord teaches us that there is such a thing about letting go things for the time being because something more important is at hand.
"Consider the ravens: for they neither sow nor reap. Consider the lilies how they grow: they toil not, they spin not. Seek not ye what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink, neither be ye of doubtful mind. Your Father knoweth that ye have need of these things." (Luk. 12:24,27,29,30) What can be more basic and necessary than food and clothing? Yet, as Christians, we are not to worry about such things, but learn to trust our God for them. But, alas, even on such things sinful men have made themselves addicted to their modification and invention. So they are become not contented even with such things.
"Having food and raiment let us be therewith content ... They that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition. For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows." (1Ti. 6:8-10) If Paul's instruction to Pastor Timothy above sounds strange to you, you might have already fallen into grievous temptation.
"The cares of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, and the lust of other things entering in, choke the word, and it becometh unfruitful." (Mar. 4:19) Do you find the Word "breathless" and "unfruitful" in your life? If so, Jesus could be right about the cares, deceitfulness and lust of this world entering into your life. Know the truth and the truth shall make you free.
"Let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us." (Heb. 12:1)
Are you worrying even with the Lord by your side on your way to heaven? Can you not trust His precious promises and walk by faith?
Comment on Morning June 16
Take a good look at what have transpired so far in your life. Were there moments of joy and security when you can relax a little and are thankful for them? And were there moments when you are in serious situations where you were in great danger and which called for full concentration and alertness? Do you not at times regret for not being wiser and more sober at such moments - days of evil?
"See that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil." (Eph. 5:15) As we approach the Great and Glorious Day of the Lord, let us remember His Word to us that, if it be possible, even the very elect would be deceived in those days. Do you consider yourselves an elect of God? If so, do you know how you will be kept from evil in those days? It will be impossible for you to keep yourselves from such evil. But God who chose you would keep you even in the way of wisdom.
The way of wisdom: "Take diligent heed to do the commandment and the law, to love the Lord your God, and to walk in all his ways, and to keep his commandments, and to cleave unto him, and to serve him with all your heart and with all your soul. — Walk in wisdom toward them that are without, redeeming the time. Let your speech be always with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man. — Abstain from all appearance of evil." (Jos 22:5; Col. 4:5,6; 1Th. 5:22)
"While the bridegroom tarried, they all slumbered and slept. And at midnight there was a cry made, Behold, the bridegroom cometh; go ye out to meet him. — Watch, therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the hour wherein the Son of man cometh." (Mat. 25:5, 13) The waiting for our Lord Jesus's Second Coming is not a matter of passive, indifferent waiting. It is a getting ready for ourselves and our off-springs for that great day of meeting in the air - the greatest event in the whole history of mankind!!! Such preparation calls for the increase of the knowledge of God, of His counsel and of His will. Then it calls for the aligning of our lives in harmony with them. It is a diligent search and an exciting endeavour.
"Brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure; for if we do these things, ye shall never fall. — Blessed are those servants, whom the lord when he cometh shall find watching." (2Pe. 1:10; Luk. 12:37)
Are you getting ready? Do you find such preparation meaningful and exciting in your life?
Comment on Morning June 17
Unless you are an hermit living all by yourself in the cave, living in a human society would soon bring you into situations where you would have to help or be helped by another for whatever reason. Then we soon learn that help can come our way more likely when we ask for it than when we keep mum about it. There are so many things to learn about asking for and receiving help from each other. On this matter our learning is incomplete without the knowledge of asking of and receiving from God.
"In every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God." (Php. 4:6) God is indeed sovereign and does whatever He pleases. He is not governed by our sinful desires, but does what He deems good and right according to His own judgment and plan. All these do not imply that God is disinterested in what we are making known to Him in our prayers and supplication. We make known to Him, not because we think He does not know and needs to be informed by us. We make known to Him in all the details that we might learn to view the matter before us in truth and in connection with our desire. It is more for us than for Him. When God brings to pass His unchangeable decree on all things, blessed are those who pray in truth for they are those who are indeed comforted and sanctified, while the prayerless may be confused and troubled.
"I love the Lord, because he hath heard my voice and my supplications. Because he hath inclined his ear unto me, therefore will I call upon him as long as I live." (Psa. 16:1,2) That God hears our voice and supplications does not mean that He is being controlled and manipulated by us to do what whatever we desire according to our whims and fancies. Whatever His answers to us, the perceiving ones know that He takes into consideration our cries and prayers, and that His answers are always best for us as they are for His own glory and praise.
"When ye pray, use not vain repetitions, as the heathen do: for they think that they shall be heard for their much speaking. — The Spirit ... helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered." (Mat. 6:7; Rom. 8:26) True prayers are no exercises of the flesh. They are spiritual in character. In fact, they are the result of the Spirit of God working in our hearts to will and to do of His own good pleasure. To live a prayerful life, one needs only to concentrate on being filled with the Spirit of God - to discover His will and to walk as directed by Him in truth.
"I will therefore that men pray every where, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting. — Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints." (1Ti. 2:8; Eph. 6:18) A life filled with the Holy Spirit is also a life with holy hands. In prayer, we open our empty hands to Him to receive from Him. We do not doubt His ability and willingness to give us as a good Father would His children who ask of Him. We persevere in prayers for one another until He hears us.
"If two of you shall agree on earth as touching any thing that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of my Father which is in heaven." (Mat. 18:19) We must appreciate the prayers of all who are righteous in Christ for God hears such in this world.
What are some of the things in your lives which you find difficult to bring to God's presence in prayer? Are they the cause of prayerlessness?
Comment on Evening June 17
"All thy works shall praise thee, O Lord; and thy saints shall bless thee." (Psa. 145:10) It cannot be otherwise because God's works and salvation are perfect whether people realize and see that or not. Therefore, God is magnified and glorified in His own perfect sight of all things. All who are given to see would agree with the Psalmist and rejoice in their God.
"Bless the Lord, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless his holy name. Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits. — I will bless the Lord at all times: his praise shall continually be in my mouth. — Every day will I bless thee; and I will praise thy name for ever and ever." (Psa. 103:1,2; 34:1; 145:2) All who meditate deeply into the ways of God would from their inner being bless the Name of the Lord and call to remembrance all his benefits. As they praise the Lord everyday, they become more convinced that they will do so throughout eternity.
"Because thy lovingkindness is better than life, my lips shall praise thee. Thus will I bless thee while I live: I will lift up my hands in thy name. My soul shall be satisfied as with marrow and fatness; and my mouth shall praise thee with joyful lips." (Psa. 63:3-5) Life may be difficult for a child of God, but his experience of His lovingkindness towards him, makes his life a life of praise and joy. This life is worth living and His lovingkindness is better than life. Life is vain without His lovingkindness!
"My soul doth magnify the Lord, and my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Saviour." (Luk. 1:46, 47) Our one and great calling as human being is to magnify the Name of the Mighty God, our Creator. Our greatest need is deliverance from our sins and miseries. God has revealed Himself to us as the God of our salvation. In Him we find true peace of soul and the meaning of life.
"Thou art worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honour and power: for thou hast created all things and for thy pleasure they are and were created." (Rev. 4:11) Do you have any glory, honour and power to give away? Who is worthy to receive them all?
Are you still looking for your all in all? Have you found Him Whom your soul loves?
Comment on Morning June 18
After the Fall of man into sin, there is simply no way back to God which sinful man can invent or devise. If there is to be any hope of salvation, it simply has to come from the Sovereign God Himself. If He does nothing, but simply maintain His justice we are all doomed to eternal hell. Thanks be to God that He did do something to save mankind. We only know of such things because He is pleased to reveal Himself as the God of our Salvation to us. He shows Himself to be very merciful towards us.
"Thou shalt put the mercy seat above upon the ark, and there I will meet with thee." (Exo. 25:21, 22) Only the guilty one needs the mercy of his judge. People who do not even believe that there is a God to judge them finally are doomed forever because there is no way they can acknowledge their guilt before this judge. No guilt, no mercy sought for. No mercy, no hope nor any salvation. When God shows mercy to save a person, He works guilt in them and cause them to plea for mercy; not simply for justice alone. Blessed are all those with whom the Lord would meet at His mercy seat.
"The way into the holiest of all was not yet made manifest. — Jesus, when he had cried again with a loud voice, yielded up the ghost. And, behold, the veil of the temple was rent in twain from the top to the bottom." (Heb. 9:8; Mat. 27:50, 51) The physical structure of the temple was built to teach God's people that their lives on earth before the glory of heaven is a holy experience with God. When they finally reach Heaven, they come to the "holiest of all" into God's very own unveiled presence. In the temple, the realities of these two experiences are symbolically separated by the huge veil or curtain. When Christ died on the cross this veil was miraculously rent into two parts exposing what was within the veil - the sight of heaven! The living way was open for man.
"Having ... brethren, boldness to enter into the holiest by the blood of Jesus, by a new and living way, which he hath consecrated for us, through the veil, that is to say, his flesh; ... let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water. — Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need." (Heb. 10:19,20,22; 4:16) In New Testamet language this mercy seat is called the "throne of grace". Through the blood of Christ we can enter into the holiest place and commune with God at His throne of grace. Our guilt having being removed, we now received the promise of the Father, with many gifts of the Holy Spirit to do His will in this present evil world. There we obtain help in times of need - need not only to be saved but to serve effectively.
"Christ Jesus: whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation [mercy seat] through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God. — Through him we have access by one Spirit unto the Father." (Rom. 3:24,25; Eph. 2:18)
How well equipped are you for your service here below and then forever in Heaven? To you know where to go for your equipment and how to put them on? (Eph. 6:11-20)
Comment on Evening June 18
Faith is something alive and able to grow with the living parts it binds together. So, faith may be small to begin with, but it grows in healthy environment.
"Faith as a grain of mustard seed." A grain of mustard seed is indeed small to begin with, but that seed can grow up to become a big plant. So we must never despise the smallness of people's faith, but rather always seek to encourage the growth of such faith. More important is the genuineness of the faith rather than the size of it.
In the Old Testament we have the following examples of small faith being used by the Lord as well. "Barak said unto [Deborah], if thou wilt go with me, then I will go: but if thou wilt not go with me, then I will not go. God subdued on that day Jabin the king of Canaan. — Gideon ... feared his father's household, and the men of the city, that he could not do it by day, ... did it by night. And Gideon said unto God, If thou wilt save Israel by mine hand as thou hast said, ... let me prove, I pray thee. And God did so." (Jud. 4:8,23; 6:27,36,39,40)
"Thou hast a little strength, and hast kept my word, and hast not denied my name. — Who hath despised the day of small things?" (Rev. 3:8; Zec. 4:10) When God gives faith (no matter how small it may be in man's sight) to anyone, it is meant to be used and not to be despised by anyone. In fact, what this faith can accomplish is not dependent upon its size, but upon the One from whom faith is drawing its power.
"We are bound to thank God always for you, brethren, as it is meet, because that your faith groweth exceedingly. — Lord, increase our faith. — I will be as the dew unto Israel: he shall grow as the lily, cast forth his roots as Lebanon. His branches shall spread, and his beauty shall be as the olive tree, and his smell as Lebanon." (2Th. 1:3; Luk. 17:5; Hos.14:5,6)
Are you growing in faith as you exercise therein?
Comment on Morning June 19
The writer of Hebrews wrote: "Holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord." (Heb. 2:14) Not to see the Lord is damnation finally. So in Heaven the unholy cannot be found there. To be holy is to be consecrated and dedicated totally to that to whim all other things serve. So holiness must have as its focal point the Almighty Creator and Governor of all things.
For fallen men there can be no holiness without regeneration or being born again. "Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God. — There shall in no wise enter into it any thing that defileth. — There is no spot in thee." (Joh. 3:3; Rev. 21:27; Song 4:7) A born again person is one dedicated and consecrated to God.
In this unholy world, holiness cannot be hidden. "Ye shall be holy: for I the Lord your God am holy. — As obedient children, not fashioning yourselves according to the former lusts in your ignorance: but as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation; because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy. And if ye call on the Father, who without respect of persons judgeth according to every man's work, pass the time of your sojourning here in fear. — Put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts; and be renewed in the spirit of your mind, and ... put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness. — He hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should he holy and without blame before him in love." (Lev. 19:2. -I Pet. 1:14-17. -Eph. 4:22-24. -Eph. 1:4)
Do the people around you notice your holiness? Are they comfortable with your holiness? Are you comfortable being holy?
Comment on Evening June 19
All Christian believers in Heaven are "Gold tried in the fire." (Rev. 3:18) This means that they did not have an easy time while on earth in their pilgrimage. It also means that they had been purified through the process of trial - they are become more pure and precious through every trial. It also implies the presence of that which can and must be purified by the trial. The presence of that precious thing to begin with is the gift of God in Jesus Christ. It is not in any man by nature.
For Gospel's sake, many Christians gave up loved ones and things. But they are finally rewarded more beyond measure. "There is no man that hath left house, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my sake, and the gospel's, but he shall receive an hundredfold now in this time, houses, and brethren, and sisters, and mothers, and children, and lands, with persecutions; and in the world to come eternal life." (Mar. 10:29,30)
It is indeed strange that Christians are persecuted for the right things they are doing in this world. Persecution is difficult to bear, but they have their good effect which should encourage us to persevere on. "Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you. — Now for a season, if need be, ye are in heaviness through manifold temptations: that the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ." (1Pe. 4:12; 1:6,7)
We all want to be strengthened and be perfect. But are we willing to suffer for the truth's and righteousness' sake, for a while? "The God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you. — In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world. (1Pe. 5:10; Joh. 16:33) The example of our Lord, Who is now in glory should encourage us to walk in His Steps.
The present suffering is painful and tearful, but where should we look to for strength?
Comment on Morning June 20
Salvation is indeed not based upon the good works which we have done or can ever do. This is because the good works that can merit salvation is so demanding that no one, but our Lord Jesus Christ alone, can perform them. This does no mean that the basic principle of "cause and effect" in Creation does not have any significance. Whatsoever a man sows that shall he also reap. This continue to be true according to God's design of all creatures even in the experiences of sanctification. Thus, we also speak of the reward of grace, and of the degree of punishment for the wicked in hell.
Moses' mother was given her wages even though she took care of her own baby. "Take this child away, and nurse it for me, and I will give thee thy wages." (Exo. 2:9) This would have been true even if the princess did not decide to pay her. God would ensure that.
"Go ye ... into the vineyard, and whatsoever is right I will give you. — Whosoever shall give you a cup of water to drink in my name, because ye belong to Christ, verily I say unto you, he shall not lose his reward. — The liberal soul shall be made fat: and he that watereth shall be watered also himself. — God is not unrighteous to forget your work and labour of love, ...in that ye have ministered to the saints, and do minister." (Mat. 20:4; Mar. 9:41; Pro. 11:25; Heb. 6:10) If a thing is right to do, just do it and leave the rest to God.
"Every man shall receive his own reward according to his own labour." (1Co. 3:8) Let us be observant of the ways of God with us and do those things which bring us His good reward.
"Lord, when saw we thee an hungered, and fed thee? or thirsty, and gave thee drink? When saw we thee a stranger, and took thee in? or naked, and clothed thee? And the King shall answer and say unto them, ... Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me. Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world." (Mat. 25:37,38,40,34) Observe how our King Jesus associate Himself to us. We are as the apple of His eyes. If we love Him, take care of His Body.
In whose vineyard are you labouring?
Comment on Evening June 20
If we are not on a path somewhere to do something, we are lying down resting and thinking what to do next. In both situation, it would be most blessed to have the Almighty God taking an interest in us. "Thou compassest my path and my lying down." (Psa. 139:3)
When he was fleeing from his furious, vengeful brother, Esau, exhausted and helpless, "Jacob awaked out of his sleep, and he said, Surely the Lord is in this place; and I knew it not. And he was afraid and said, How dreadful is this place! this is none other but the house of God, and this is the gate of heaven." (Gen. 28:16,17) He had a vision of angels bring God's blessings upon him, and of God declaring that he was His chosen one in the covenant line of Abraham.
God's chosen ones are perfect in Christ in their hearts because of the work of God's grace. And "The eyes of the Lord run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to shew himself strong in the behalf of them whose heart is perfect toward him." (2Ch. 16:9)
We are restless and sleepless when we are in great danger and have no assurance of safety in any sense. To know Someone, able and willing to help us get out of such danger, is by our side gives us much comfort and enables us to take a rest. "I will both lay me down in peace, and sleep: for thou, Lord, only, makest me dwell in safety." (Psa. 4:8)
"Because thou hast made the Lord, which is my refuge, even the most High, thy habitation; there shall no evil befall thee, neither shall any plague come nigh thy dwelling. For He shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways. — When thou liest down, thou shalt not be afraid: yea, thou shalt lie down, and thy sleep shall be sweet. — So he giveth his beloved sleep." (Psa. 91:9-11. -Prov. 3:24. -Psa. 127:2) God being omnipresent is fuly everywhere. And He is everywhere in a special sense for His beloved people who publicly declare that they dwell in Him. They see God everywhere, rejoice in Him and praise Him. This is their Father's world. They can sleep anywhere here with His watchful eyes over them.
Why are you restless and sleepless?
Comment on Morning June 23
The moral and spiritual value of a though, word or action of a man lies in its current spiritual condition and motivation. The same outward deed of two men may have totally two different spiritual and moral value. This outward deed may have the same outward effect upon the surrounding, yet when God judge this same deed as performed by these two men, the difference may be far as heaven is from hell.
We must constantly examine our inner motive and spirit in all our thoughts, words and actions for God judge not the outward appearance, but the very heart of man. If we are truly saved by God we can expect to discover the Spirit of truth in us. Jesus, our Saviour and Head, assures us: "I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, even the Spirit of truth." (Joh. 14:16,17) There is no deceitfulness in truthfulness. So, a Christian should not bluff others nor cheat himself.
"It is expedient for you that I go away: for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you; but if l depart, I will send him unto you." (Joh. 16:7) The coming of the Holy Spirit to us Christians are so important to the Lord that He would go away from us in order that the Spirit might come to us. How important is the presence of the Holy Spirit in your and mine life?
"The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God. — Ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father. — The Spirit ... helpeth our infirmities; for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered." (Rom. 8:16,15,26) When we can call God readily "our Father Which art in Heaven", there is evidence of the Spirit of adoption in us. We continue to turn to Him as a child would his father. This is a good sign of His witnessing to our spirit that we are the children of God.
When we have hope of our Father's home, Heaven, we are fill with joy and peace and the power of the Holy Spirit. "The God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost. — Hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us." (Rom. 15:13; 5:5)
"Hereby know we that we dwell in him and he in us, because he hath given us of his Spirit." (1Jo. 4:13)
Are you interested in the spiritual quality of the source of all your thoughts, words and actions? Do you study to examine them?
Comment on Evening June 23
When we love another, we seek the other person's well-being. For Naomi who loved her daughter-in-law, Ruth, it meant helping her to settle down. She asked her rhetorically, "Shall I not seek rest for thee, that it may be well with thee?" (Rut. 3:1) So, will not our God Who loves us ensure that we have eternal rest in Heaven?
"There remaineth ... a rest to the people of God. — My people shall dwell in a peaceable habitation, and in sure dwellings, and in quiet resting places. — There the wicked cease from troubling; and there the weary be at rest. — They ... rest from their labours." (Heb. 4:9; Isa. 32:18; Job 3:17; Rev. 14:13) Now we live in a world full of wickedness and often we are troubled by them because of righteousness and the Gospel. The life with God shall prevail for us who are in Jesus Christ, His Son.
Entrance to Heaven is certain for us because Jesus, our Head, is already there for us who follow Him. "The forerunner is for us entered, even Jesus, made an high priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec." (Heb. 6:20)
If we have gone astray like a lost sheep, there is only one thing to do. We must return humbly to the Shepherd of our soul. We must repent of our sins, trust in Him and follow Him. There is no other way to rest. "Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavv laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light. — In returning and rest shall ye be saved; in quietness and in confidence shall be your strength." (Mat. 11:28-30; Isa. 30:15)
"The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters." (Psa. 23:1,2)
Can you ever become the shepherd of your own soul?
Comment on Morning June 24
The ark of the covenant of the LORD was that only furniture in the most holy place of the tabernacle (a portable temple in the days of Moses), representing the very presence of God Almighty. "The ark of the covenant of the Lord went before them to search out a resting place for them." (Num. 10:33) God took upon Himself to seek a resting place for His people. There was none else to nor can anyone else help to do such a work of salvation for a helpless and restless people.
"My times are in thy hand. — He shall choose our inheritance for us. — Lead me, O Lord, in thy righteousness; ... make thy way straight before my face." (Psa. 31:15; 47:4; 5:8) God freely gives His salvation to whom He wills. This is His righteousness in and by which we are saved. Our destiny is in His hand.
"Commit thy way unto the Lord; trust also in him; and he shalt bring it to pass. — In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. — Thine ears shall hear a word behind thee, saying, This is the way, walk ye in it, when ye turn to the right hand, and when ye turn to the left." (Psa. 37:5; Pro. 3:6; Isa. 30:21) Whenever you make a turn in your life, would it be a response to "a word behind thee, saying, This is the way, walk ye in it"?
"The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures; he leadeth me beside the still waters. — Like as a father pitieth his children, so the Lord pitieth them that fear him. For he knoweth our frame; he remembereth that we are dust. — Your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things. — Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you." Is that our experience of His loving care towards us? If so, it is foolish to bear the burden ourselves all the day long. Let us learn to trust and to cast all our care upon Him. Let us learn to rest in Him.
Are you discovering that He makes your need His care?
Comment on Evening June 24
Mary, the sister of Matha and Lazarus, must have tasted the blessedness of spending time with the Lord, sitting at His feet listening to those words of wisdom that come from above! She must have often wished to dwell in the same place as Jesus and go wherever He goes.
Do we not wish to know where Jesus lives, like the first few disciples of Christ, who asked: "Master, where dwellest thou? He saith unto them, Come and see." (Joh. 1:38, 39) Follow Christ and soon we will know where He lives.
"In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also. — To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne." (Joh. 14:2,3; Rev. 3:21) Such a glorious place in Heaven none of us are fit to be there. To be with Him is good enough for us - it would be Heaven for us if He is there.
"Thus saith the high and lofty One that inhabiteth eternity, whose name is Holy; I dwell in the high and holy place, with him also that is of a contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive the heart of the contrite ones." (Isa. 57:15) If we follow Jesus long enough we will discover that He dwell "with him also that is of a contrite and humble spirit". We who are of a contrite and humble spirit need not be discouraged by any, if He does not despise us. He promotes such a spirit. Thus, He resiss the proud, but gives grace to the humble.
"Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me." (Rev. 3:20) When you are greatly humbled and hear His knocking, you should quickly open the door, for He has come to visit you to stay with you. What a privilege and blessing not to be missed.
"Lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. — How excellent is thy lovingkindness, O God! therefore the children of men put their trust under the shadow of thy wings." (Mat. 28:20; Psa. 36:7)
What is so attractive about you and me? What kind of people are being attracted to us? What and who are they looking for?
Comment on Morning June 25
Looking at ourselves and our fellow human beings, we can only conclude that the human nature is capable of many wonderful things, but somehow we cannot find all our perceived good qualities residing in one single man. Of course, we may perceive wrongly and imperfectly what these "good qualities". Even in these imperfect virtues we cannot find residing in one single individual, what more the real, genuine virtues of man? So, all human beings as far as we can tell are imperfect. But, ...
There was a time when God saw all created things under that dominion of man and said that it was "very good". (Gen. 1:31) Man, then, was perfect created after the image of God and in His likeness. Man lost that glory at the very dawn of his story. And since then, with the exception of Jesus Christ, all men are born in trespasses and sins. Jesus Christ, the last Adam, came to restore that image in us. (1Co. 15:45-50)
This shall be seen clearly one day. "When he shall appear, we shall be like him; we shall see him as he is." (1Jo. 3:2)
Our salvation is not merely an escape from corruption, but also, positively, a transformation more and more into the image of Christ, the Son of God. "As many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name. — Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises; that by these we might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust." (Joh. 1:12; 2Pe. 1:4)
This complete and perfect transformation shall take place publicly at the Second Coming of Christ in the cloud of glory. For this glorious Lord we wait patiently. "Since the beginning of the world men have not heard, nor perceived by the ear, neither hath the eye seen, O God, beside thee, what he hath prepared for him that waiteth for him." (Isa. 64:4)
What kind of power does it take to bring such a glorious event to pass? Scripture reveals that, at the right hand of God, Christ is ruling over all things, subduing them to serve Him and His people. What power is that? Faith can see and believe in such great power. That is the power which shall be displayed on that Great and Glorious Day of the Lord. "Now we see through a glass. darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known. — Christ ... shall change our vile body ... that it may be fashioned like unto his glorious body, according to the working whereby he is able even to subdue all things unto himself. — As for me, I will behold thy face in righteousness: I shall be satisfied, when I awake, with thy likeness." (1Co. 13:12; Php. 3:20,21; Psa. 17:15) There is no greater saisfacion for a Christian believer than to "behold thy face in righteousness." When we can do that we shall awake with His likeness.
Are you satisfied in life? How about in death?
Comment on Evening June 25
No one who ever reads the Bible can miss the teaching that Jesus Christ is the Saviour. But how important is it to believe that He is God, the Mighty Creator of Heaven and Earth? Because Scriptures clearly reveals that Jesus is a real man with His genealogy clearly spelled out, there are those who doubt His Divinity. To exalt a mere man to the status of God would be indeed blasphemous, a very grave sin indeed! Jesus, our Saviour, must be God for besides God, believers do not have any saviour. (Isa. 43:11; 45:21; Hos. 13:4)
God called Jesus His "fellow" in Zec. 13:7 - "The man that is my fellow, saith the Lord of hosts." Jesus therefore has the same divine nature as God Jehovah.
"In him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily. — I have laid help upon one that is mighty; I have exalted one chosen out of the people. — I have trodden the winepress alone; and of the people there was none with me." (Col. 2:9; Psa. 89:19; Isa. 63:3) Scriptures reveal that the work of salvation is the work of the Triune God, and so believers and their children are baptized into His Name. (Mat. 28:20)
The rejection of the divinity of Christ is a rejection of the life of godliness. "Great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh. — Unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given, and the government shall be upon his shoulder; and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The Everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace." (1Ti. 3:16; Isa. 9:6)
The writer of Hebrews described Jesus with words fit only for the Lord God Almighty. "The brightness of his glory, and the express image of his person, and upholding all things by the word of his power, when he had by himself purged our sins, sat down on the right hand of the majesty on high. — Unto the Son he saith, Thy throne, O God, is for ever and ever." (Heb. 1:3, 8)
Only God alone may be worshipped and "Let all the angels of God worship him [i.e. "Jesus" - lck] ." (Heb. 1:6)
"Kings of kings, and Lord of lords." (Rev. 19:16) None else, but God is worthy of such a title which was ascribed to Jesus.
Are we not glad and thankful that our Saviour is the Mighty Creator Himself?
Comment on Morning June 26
The greatest of all is none other than the Mighty Creator and Redeemer Himself. If He is the One Who is blessing us, then we are blessed indeed. There is none who can withstand Him and prevent Him from getting what He wants. He is immutable and so if He be for us, then forever we are blessed indeed.
"Oh that thou wouldest bless me indeed, and that thou wouldest keep me from evil! And God granted him that which he requested." (1Ch. 4:10) Do we seek God's blessing so earnestly as we should, even above all our other pursuits in life?
"The blessing of the Lord, it maketh rich, and he addeth no sorrow with it. — When he giveth quietness, who then can make trouble? and when he hideth his face, who then can behold him?" (Pro. 10:22; Job 34:29) God's blessing is genuine. The devil's blessing is deceitful, and we must resist him steadfastly. As for God's blessing we cannot stop asking.
For lost sinners like us, the blessing of God first speaks of our Salvation. "Salvation belongeth unto the Lord: thy blessing is upon thy people. — How great is thy goodness, which thou hast laid up for them that fear thee; which thou hast wrought for them that trust in thee before the sons of men. — I pray not that thou shouldest take them out of the world, but that thou shouldest keep them from the evil." (Psa. 3:8; 31:19; Joh. 17:15) Those who would not seek God are lost forever.
If God seems so far away from us, we should continue to ask for Him and His blessing. The more He keeps quiet towards us the more we should cry to Him for mercy. We have no other hope besides Him. "Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: for every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened. — The Lord redeemeth the soul of his servants and none of them that trust in him shall be desolate." (Mat. 7:7,8; Psa. 34:22) It is of His grace that we persevere in seeking Him. He will crown His own work in us.
Are you desperate for God? Why?
Comment on Evening June 26
What is it like to belong to a people that served as slaves for 400 years, building the king's tomb with hard labour from generation to generation; and, then, after a single night, to be forced out of that land of bondage by the king? Unbelievable that there should ever be such a night, yet their God brought that night to pass, prepared them for it and delivered them from slavery to be a free, great nation of Israel. "It is a night to be much observed unto the Lord for bringing them out from the land of Egypt." (Exo. 12:42)
The commemoration of such a fantastic night was not meant to be an end in itself. It serves to point to another night in the history of God's people when their Saviour was arrested and crucified for the remission of their sins. "The Lord Jesus the same night in which he was betrayed took bread: and when he had given thanks, he brake it, and said, Take, eat: this is my body which is broken for you: this do in remembrance of me. After the same manner also he took the cup, when he had supped, saying, This cup is the new testament in my blood: this do ye, as oft as ye drink it, in remembrance of me." (1Co. 11:23-25) The Passover Feast of the Jews points to the Lord's Supper of us Christians.
What we must never forget about that night was the great suffering of our dear Saviour, Jesus Christ. Ours were the transgressions and His the deadly pain. "He ... kneeled down, and prayed. And being in an agony he prayed more earnestly: and his sweat was as it were great drops of blood falling down to the ground." (Luk. 22:41,44) It is unbecoming of us Christians to take our sins lightly.
"It was the preparation of the passover, and about the sixth hour: ... they took Jesus, and led him away, ... into a place called ... Golgotha: where they crucified him." (Joh. 19:14,16-18) The lamb slaughtered at that last Passover was the Lamb of God, that took away the sin of the world. (Joh. 1:29)
"Christ our passover is sacrificed for us: therefore let us keep the feast." (1Co. 5:7,8)
God's people live through many nights in this dark and sinful world, from Eden to the Mount of Olives. Which of these nights should we commemorate with great thankfulness, rejoicing and revitalization?
Comment on Morning June 27
When the wise man of Ecclesiastes set out to investigate the true meaning of life, he quickly took notice of the existence of many things that go on in endless cycles. If all things only serve to perpetuate these cycles inevitably, then there is no need to worry about the meaning of life. What will be will be. Just live as one pleases - let's eat and be merry for tomorrow we die. Even that he found it vain and began to show hatred for life itself. (Ecc. 2:17)
But he also noticed that things could have been very different if some people deliberately act differently in "his time". Things are not to be left alone by themselves, but God does "requireth that which is past". (Ecc. 3:15) Since God requires then there is judgment and accountability, righteousness and wickedness. There is a "time there for every purpose and for every work." (3:17) So, the conclusiong was to fear God and keep His commandments. (12:13,14)
"Who shall be able to stand?" (Rev. 6:17) "Who may abide the day of his coming? and who shall stand when he appeareth? for he is like a refiner's fire, and like fullers' soap." (Mal. 3:2) There is none righteous, no not one. (Rom. 3:10) No one can stand by his own strength.
Yet, "I beheld, and, lo, a great multitude, which no man could number, of all nations, and kindreds, and peoples, and tongues, stood before the throne, and before the Lamb, clothed with white robes, and palms in their hands. These are they which came out of great tribulation, and have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb. They shall hunger no more, neither thirst any more: neither shall the sun light on them, nor any heat. For the Lamb, which is in the midst of the throne, shall feed them, and shall lead them unto living fountains of waters: and God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes." (Rev. 7:9,14-17) Those who stand are those who are washed in the blood of the Lamb. He is all in all to them. That is their only hope. There is none else.
"There is no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. — Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free." (Rom. 8:1; Gal. 5:1) If we do not have this bond of friendship with Christ, we are still in the bond of sin and there is no hope for us there.
What can we expect to see in one who is in Christ? (2Co. 5:17)
Comment on Evening June 27
A true child of God knows only too well that he cannot stand for a moment in the judgment of God, all by himself without Christ as his Head and Saviour. "Enter not into judgment with thy servant: for in thy sight shall no man living be justified." (Psa. 143:2)
Yet he comes to God's presence when called upon to do so. "Come now, and let us reason together, saith the Lord: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool." (Isa. 1:18) He calls us to get us clean up by the blood of Christ, not to condemn us in His judgment.
Without His provision for cleansing we dare not come to His presence. All other forms of cleansing are not for us, nor do they give us peace of mind as we come to Him. "Let him take hold of my strength that he may make peace with me; and he shall make peace with me. — Acquaint now thyself with him, and be at peace." (Isa. 27:5; Job. 22:21)
"Being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. — A man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ. — By the deeds of the law there shall no flesh be justified in his sight." (Rom. 5:1; Gal. 2:16; Rom. 3:20) Faith in Christ is not a form of work which we offer to God for justification. There is nothing meritorious about having faith. Faith is a gift of God, given to whom He will according to His Grace and Mercy.
"By him all that believe are justified from all things, from which ye could not be justified by the law of Moses." (Act. 13:39)
"Thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ." (1Co. 15:57) As far as our salvation is concerned there is nothng to thank ourselves for because we were dead in trespasses and sins and contributed nothing to the beginning of our spiritual life.
Are you looking around for reasons to honour and praise yourself in your salvation? Is it not your joy to praise your Saviour alone?
Comment on Morning June 28
Whenever we talk a bout a man being alive in this world, we must ever also bear in mind, at the same time, that it means he is yet to die. Only for those who have gone through death and came back alive in a glorified form can we say that they ever live.
"I know that my Redeemer liveth." (Job. 19:25) This was Job's confession of faith, drawn out of deep sufferings and given to see his Redeemer, Jesus Christ! Only on such a Redeemer can we find hope of everlasting life.
"If, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life. — This man, because he continueth ever, hath an unchangeable priesthood. Wherefore he is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by him, seeing he ever liveth to make intercession for them." (Rom. 5:10; Heb. 7:24,25) To have Someone Who loves us so much living forever for us, what harm can come upon us?
He told us the same Himself: "Because I live, ye shall live also. — If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men most miserable. But now is Christ risen from the dead, and become the firstfruits of them that slept." (Joh. 14:19; 1Co. 15:19,20)
Our Redeemer was dealing with the root problem of all our miseries when He paid the ultimate price of His Own precious blood for our sins. "The Redeemer shall come to Zion, and unto them that turn from transgression in Jacob, saith the Lord. — We have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace. — Ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain conversation received by tradition from your fathers; but with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot." (Isa. 59:20; Eph. 1:7; 1Pe. 1:15,19) He is most precious to those who seek forgiveness of sins from God.
What are your problems in life which call for a redeemer?
Comment on Evening June 28
The Christian life is a life of a spiritual soldier fighting under the leadership of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Captain of the Lord's hosts. The cause is the Word of Truth by which the Heaven and the Earth and all things therein were created and governed. Christ upholds the Word as revealed in the Holy Bible, and the devil and his cohort come with their many lies against It.
The Word reveals: "The Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits." (1Ti. 4:1) As we approach the latter times, we must certainly expect to see some departing from the faith, even from the true Christian faith.
"Take heed therefore how ye hear. — Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom. — Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked." (Luk. 8:18; Col. 3:16; Eph. 6:16) This warning from our Captain must not be taken lightly if we want to fight the good fight of faith.
If we hear rightly there is peace that comes from love for the law of God. "Great peace have they which love thy law: and nothing shall offend them. How sweet are thy words unto my taste! yea, sweeter than honey to my mouth! Through thy precepts I get understanding: therefore I hate every false way." (Psa. 119:165,103,104) In that peace we have understanding and are not tossed to and fro by every wind of doctrine, not because we are ignorant of doctrines, but because we know what they are all about.
"Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path. — I have more understanding than all my teachers: for thy testimonies are my meditation." (Psa. 119:105, 99) Not that we become boastful of our understanding, but that we are not intimidated by others who would not follow the Word of God, no matter who they may be.
"Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light. — But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed." (2Co. 11:14; Gal. 1:8) People who want to teach God's Word must realize the heavy responsibility that is placed upon their shoulder for doing that. It is not only their responsibility to set forth positively the Word of Truth, but also to expose the devil in his wiles in trying to deceive God's people.
What roles are you playing in the inevitable apostasy (the departure from the faith) that is already here, before that Great and Glorious Day of the Lord?
Comment on Morning June 29
Our Lord once condemned the teachers of the Mosaic Law with these words: "And he said, Woe unto you also, ye lawyers! for ye lade men with burdens grievous to be borne, and ye yourselves touch not the burdens with one of your fingers." (Luk. 11:46) Was our Lord teaching that God's Law is grievous? If so, what did the Apostle John mean when he wrote: "His commandments are not grievous." (1Jo. 5:3)? By misinterpreting the Mosaic law, the lawyers were making the "burdens grievous" for God's people. So are many false teachers to-day doing to God's people with their foolish talk over the pulpit!
God's commandments which reveal God's will are never grievous to God's people. "This is the will of him that sent me, that every one which seeth the Son, and believeth on him, may have everlasting life. — Whatsoever we ask, we receive of him, because we keep his commandments, and do those things that are pleasing in his sight." (Joh. 6:40; 1Jo. 3:22)
How can doing God's will be something grievous? Jesus, our Lord, said, "My yoke is easy, and my burden is light. — If ye love me, keep my commandments. — He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him." (Mat. 11:30; Joh. 14:15,21) There is nothing more restful then to be doing things out of love. There is joy in such activities, and in fact hard works become easy when we do them with willingly, thankfully and joyfully.
"Happy is the man that findeth wisdom, and the man that getteth understanding. — Her ways are ways of pleasantness, and all her paths are peace. — Great peace have they which love thy law and nothing shall offend them. — I delight in the law of God after the inward man." (Pro. 3:13,17; Psa. 119:165; Rom. 7:22) Obey God's commandments bring happiness, wisdom, understanding, pleasantness, peace and delight. How can a person with all that be grievous? Never believe the devil's lies about God's law and commandments and try to avoid them. He only want to rob us of the joy of the Lord in our lives.
"This is his commandment, That we should believe on the name of his Son Jesus Christ, and love one another. — Love worketh no ill to his neighbour: therefore love is the fulfilling of the law." (1Jo. 3:23; Rom. 13:10) God's commandments are never against faith in Christ and love for the brethren. They are never grievous but full of blessings.
Are you afraid of knowing and obeying all the commandmets of God?
Comment on Evening June 29
God had made man for Himself and man can find no rest until he finds it in God. But fellowship with God is broken because of sin. Sin has separate between us and God. When we sin, we finds it hard to come to the presence of the Holy God. Whenever we come to God we plea with Him: "Remember not the sins of my youth, nor my transgressions." (Psa. 25:7)
He assures us: "I have blotted out, as a thick cloud, thy transgressions, and, as a cloud, thy sins. — I, even I, am he that blotteth out thy transgressions for mine own sake, and will not remember thy sins. — Come now, and let us reason together, saith the Lord: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool. — I will forgive their iniquity, and I will remember their sin no more. — Thou wilt cast all their sins into the depths of the sea." (Isa. 44:22; 43:25; 1:18; Jer. 31:34; Mic. 7:19) If God has not spoken of it Himself, would we have believe in any such thing that there is forgiveness with Him Who is so holy and we so unholy?
Such a wonder of God's grace is not without a price to be paid. His love has brought the price of our redemption all the way from Heaven. "Thou hast in love to my soul delivered it from the pit of corruption: for thou hast cast all my sins behind thy back. — Who is a God like unto thee, that pardoneth iniquity? ... he retaineth not his anger for ever, because he delighteth in mercy. — Unto him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in his own blood, to him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen." (Isa. 38:17; Mic. 7:18; Rev. 1:5)
Is the superficial confession of our sins causing us to careless in our sinning?
Comment on Morning June 30
"He hath made every thing beautiful in his time: also he hath set the world in their heart, so that no man can find out the work that God maketh from the beginning to the end." (Ecc. 3:11) In the secret recesses of the hearts of all creatures is the world which God has determined from eternity. And so every thing work itself out beautifully in his time. And none of the creatures is capable of himself to find out the work that God is making. The same disaster, like the tsunami or cyclone Nargis, happened to both the good and the evil. But to the former it is the expression of God's love while to the latter his wrath. Only God can reveal such secret to man according to His own good pleasure.
"As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten. - My son, despise not thou the chastening of the Lord, nor faint when thou art rebuked of him: for whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth. — Even as a father the son in whom he delighteth. — He maketh sore, and bindeth up: he woundeth, and his hands make whole. — Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time. — I have chosen thee in the furnace of affliction." (Rev. 3:19; Heb. 12:5,6; Pro. 3:12; Job 5:18; 1Pe. 5:6; Isa. 48:10) Are you a beloved of the Lord?
"He doth not afflict willingly nor grieve the children of men. — He hath not dealt with us after our sins; nor rewarded us according to our iniquities. For as the heaven is high above the earth, so great is his mercy toward them that fear him. As far as the east is from the west, so far hath he removed our transgressions from us. Like as a father pitieth his children, so the Lord pitieth them that fear him. For he knoweth our frame; he remembereth that we are dust." (Lam. 3:33; Psa. 103:10-14) If you think the affliction you are presently experiencing in life is more than your sins deserved, then you have not known the sinfulness of your sin nor the horror of hell. Our present sufferings are certainly grievous, not to be belittled, but they are far from being something which God has rewarded to us after our sins, nor according to our iniquities. For us believers, these light afflictions are acts of His love to purify our faith and lead us to closer communion with Him now and forever.
In your imperfect life here, how have you been experiencing the love of God?
Comment on Evening June 30
God being omnipresent is always there everywhere as the Silent Witness of all things that come to pass. He witnesses all things in the beauty of His perfect being, in all His Attributes and Virtues. When we take His name into our mouth we must become very careful lest we offend Him by bearing false witness against Him, misrepresenting Him to others.
"God is in heaven, and thou upon earth: therefore let thy words be few." (Ecc. 5:2) The more we speak the more we reveal and spread our ignorance and foolishness, unless we faithfully speak the Word of God, the words of truth.
This is all the more the case when we are praying to God. "When ye pray, use not vain repetitions, as the heathen do: for they think that they shall be heard for their much speaking. Be not ye therefore like unto them: for your Father knoweth what things ye have need of, before ye ask him." (Mat. 6:7,8) By vain repetition is meant the vain chanting of words and phrases so as to bring one to a certain psychological state of being. God wants us to pray in the Spirit and with understanding also.
In Elijah's days, the false prophets of Baal used vain repetition in their heathen way of praying. "They ... called on the name of Baal from morning even until noon, saying, O Baal, hear us." (1Ki. 18:26) We are not to follow their method no matter how appealing they may be to our carnal flesh.
To pray is to beg before God. So praying is a humble experience for the "beggar" before his Sovereign Benefactor. We do not come to God's presence to speak of ourselves how good and well we have been. In prayer, we come to adore Him and seek His blessing upon poor creatures like us. "Two men went up into the temple to pray; the one a Pharisee, and the other a publican. The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, God, I thank thee, that I am not as other men are, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this publican. And the publican, standing afar off, would not lift up so much as his eyes unto heaven, but smote upon his breast, saying, God be merciful to me a sinner. I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other." (Luk. 18:10-11, 13-14)
"Lord, teach us to pray." (Luk. 11:1)
Can w learn to pray without praying? Can we grow in our prayer life by praying less? How to encourage ourselves to pray?
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