#What is Psalm 10 1 NIV?

[jesuslivesinyou]

Psalm 10: God’s Response to the Wicked Now. Psalm 10 begins on a rather negative note, “Why, O Lord, do you stand far off? Why do you hide yourself in times of trouble?” This may seem negative, but it is also a very human reaction. At times, when we face trials and crisis, the Lord does seen to be far off and impersonal. This is especially true when we have to deal with those that reject the Lord. Verses 2 through 11 vividly describe a person who has no thought of the Lord, or his responsibilities to God. “His ways are always prosperous; he is haughty and your laws are far from him; he sneers at all his enemies. He says to himself, ‘Nothing will shake me I’ll always be happy and never have trouble.’ He says to himself, ‘God has forgotten; he covers his face and never sees.’” How many of us know people that reflect that attitude in their lives? When we look at unbelief and the evil actions that come from it, we may wonder why God allows this to happen. Why does He seem to stand off and watch?

Psalm 10: God’s Response to the Wicked Now

Today, it seems like the forces arrayed against the Lord’s people – the Church – are growing stronger. The doomsday prophets see the church in retreat. People challenge the fact that God is involved in the world of man today. “Look at the evil that exists. Look at how unfair things seem to be. Look at the people that seem to be doing just fine that never once thought about God or Jesus Christ.” These statements may be correct. There is a great deal of evil in the world. In fact, considering the nature of the world, it would be surprising if it was otherwise. However, the apparent strength of the opposition to Christ has nothing to do with the reality of God and His authority. What is David’s response to such thoughts? Verse 16 states, “The Lord is King for ever and ever….” Appearances are deceiving. Regardless how the world sees the present order, the Lord is King forever and ever. Simply because people may ignore that truth does not make it less real and true.

Psalm 10: God’s Response to the Wicked Now

One of the reasons why the Lord seems to stand back is His desire that all come to Him, and the Lord will give each person as many chances as possible to accept the offer of salvation. Peter wrote, “But do not forget this one thing, dear friends. With the Lord a day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like a day. The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.” God is love, and He does love all people. That is why the offer of salvation is open to all. When we think that God does not seem to care, it may be that he is giving a person another chance to repent. As for us, we know that the Lord is King, and we know that we have an inheritance of eternal life. What can happen to us in this world that will change that? Can it be taken away or destroyed? No. There is nothing in this world that can affect our relationship with the Lord except ourselves. We can reject the offer that has been made; but other than that, our treasure is secure. Yes, as we have to face the day to day problems of life, we may echo the thoughts of David – “Why, O Lord, do you stand far off?” But as we consider the entire picture, we know better.

Psalm 10: God’s Response to the Wicked Now

God doesn’t stand far off. He is right here with us. Yes, we will have to face problems and trials. Yes, we will see injustice and tragedy in the world. God never promised to place us in a vacuum. But as we place our lives in the hands of our Lord, He will strengthen us and guide us to a more Christ-like life. The first verse of Psalm 10 began very negatively, but the last is a message of hope. “You hear, O Lord, the desire of the afflicted; you encourage them, and you listen to their cry, defending the fatherless and the oppressed, in order that man, who is of the earth, may terrify no more.” A final thought concerns verse 6 again. The wicked say, “Nothing will shake me; I’ll always be happy and never have trouble.” We know better. Such people are fooling themselves. Sooner or later, the sharp bite of despair will be felt. The words said with such arrogance in verse 6 are the words of youth and health. Everything in this life will surely pass away. Only the Lord stands forever. Only those that are joined to Him in Jesus Christ can say, “I will never be shaken!” That is a blessing that we need to remember.

Psalm 10: God’s Response to the Wicked Now

[walkswithmyfather]

Isaiah 14:24, 27 (NLT) “The Lord of Heaven’s Armies has sworn this oath: “It will all happen as I have planned. It will be as I have decided...The Lord of Heaven’s Armies has spoken— who can change his plans? When his hand is raised, who can stop him?”

Psalm 71:5 (NIV). “For you have been my hope, Sovereign Lord, my confidence since my youth.”

“Sovereign Over Sin” By In Touch Ministries:

“Temptation will come, but God promises to give us the power to resist.”

“God is sovereign. He is the supreme authority over everything, including sin and its repercussions. He doesn’t cause anyone to sin, but He will allow temptation to enter our life. And since we have free will and the Holy Spirit, we can decide how to respond. Thankfully, He retains ultimate control and weaves the consequences of our actions in accordance with His purposes.

Sometimes God permits our sin to run its full course. For instance, when the Israelites refused to turn away from their disobedience, He “gave them over to the stubbornness of their heart, to walk by their own plans” (Psalm 81:12). Without divine protection, the nation s uccumbed to corrupt influences and was overrun. Those consequences drove the Israelites to repentance, which was His original plan. Conversely, God will sometimes put an immediate halt to sin. Such was the case when King Abimelech took Abraham’s wife to himself. The king had been misled and was not aware that he was about to commit a sin. But the Lord knew of the deception and intervened (Genesis 20:1-6).

Temptation is inevitable, but engaging with sin is a choice. God’s sovereignty means that any temptation must first pass through His permissive will. In this way, He makes sure His children are never tempted beyond what they can resist (1 Corinthians 10:13).”

[Photo thanks to Heather Wilde at Unsplash]

[lovergirlforjesus]

i'm just now falling back into my faith, and I've just been really scared that Jesus doesn't love me.. like, since I avoided Him and His word for so long.. how can I fix this?

When anxiety tells us something different than the Word, we know it’s a lie. Jesus absolutely loves you, more than you could ever know. It’s not dependent on what you do. You are one of His creations. He loves you and is just happy to be reunited with you. 

Christ died for you, no matter what you’ve done that you think would make him mad at you. 

Romans 5:8: “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us”.

Also, we are not saved or loved by Jesus because of what we do (because of our works). We are saved and loved by Jesus because of God’s grace, because of what Jesus did for us.

Ephesians 2:8-10: "For 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."

More verses that show God is not the type to hold grudges: 

1 John 1:5 (NIV): "This is the message we have heard from him and declare to you: God is light; in him there is no darkness at all."

1 John 4:8 (NIV): "Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love."

Psalm 136:26 “Give thanks to the God of heaven. His love endures forever.” (Psalm 136:26) — forever! 

God is just waiting to forgive us. Jesus paid the price. You can turn back to Christ anytime and confess your sins. 

“1 John 1:9 (NIV): "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness."

Jesus loves you soooo much and wants to help you. Cry out to Him with a humble heart (like by acknowledging you wouldn’t exist without Him) and ask for His help with staying consistent in His word and help with following Him. You can ask him for help with absolutely anything. You can ask him for help with asking for help, or with prayer, etc.

love you!

[mybeautifulchristianjourney]

Things the Lord Hates

16 There are six things the Lord hates, seven that are detestable to him: 17 haughty eyes, a lying tongue, hands that shed innocent blood, 18 a heart that devises wicked schemes, feet that are quick to rush into evil, 19 a false witness who pours out lies and a person who stirs up conflict in the community. — Proverbs 6:16-19 | New International Version (NIV) Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV® Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® All rights reserved worldwide. Cross References: Genesis 6:5; Deuteronomy 19:10; Psalm 18:27; Psalm 27:12; Psalm 101:5; Psalm 120:2; Proverbs 1:16; Proverbs 6:14-15; Proverbs 6:17; Proverbs 12:17; Proverbs 14:5; Proverbs 24:2; Jeremiah 26:15; Zechariah 8:17; Romans 3:15

Read full chapter

What are the seven things God hates?

[hiswordsarekisses]

This really blew me away this morning…

“…To ‘love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind" ~ Here are a few obvious aspects:

You seek fellowship with him and long to gaze upon his beauty (Psalm 27:4). You rejoice in meditating on his Word and rise early to pray (Psalm 119:97; Mark 1:35). You always delight to do his will (Psalm 40:8). A regard for his glory governs and motivates everything you do (1 Corinthians 10:31)—eating and drinking, working and playing, buying and selling, reading and speaking, even driving. You’re never discouraged or frustrated by adverse circumstances because you’re confident God is working all things together for your good (Romans 8:28). You’re always content because you know he’ll never leave you or forsake you (Hebrews 13:5).

Or look at what Jesus called the "second" commandment: "love your neighbor as yourself" (Matthew 22:39, NIV). Among other things, this would mean that you never show selfishness, irritability, peevishness, or indifference in your dealings with others. You take a genuine interest in their welfare and seek to promote their interests, honor, and well-being. You never regard them with prideful superiority or talk about their failings. You never resent any wrongs they do to you, but instead are always ready to forgive. You always treat them as you would have them treat you.

Do you begin to grasp some of the implications of what it means to obey these two commandments?”

“On these two commandments depend all the Law and the Prophets.” (Matt22:40)

Most of us don’t even think about the 2 commandments the Lord said are most important in the course of a day, let alone aspire to obey them. ~ Instead we content ourselves with avoiding major outward sins and performing accepted Christian duties.”

(Jerry Bridges)

[saras-devotionals]

Quiet Time 9/17

What am I feeling today?

Worried. I have an exam tomorrow that I have not studied for yet. I keep putting it off and I know I struggle a lot with the material and I’m just anxious about the whole thing. I was also feeling rather jealous last night, no particular reason. I just started thinking of a lot of what ifs and it was bothering me that I wasn’t making peace with it. I want to be solely content with Christ and not rely on my joy to come from anyone/anywhere else.

Bible Plan: Prayers for Contentment

Contentment is a concept that can be difficult to practice in our fast-paced, consumer-driven society, but it's an important virtue to cultivate for a truly fulfilling life. As we go through this plan, I encourage you to spend time meditating on these scriptures and let them sink deep into your heart.

Then each day we have a prayer starter laid out for you. Of course, feel free to modify as needed to fit your situation and communication style with God.

Here is today’s prayer starter:

Dear Heavenly Father,

Thank you for being my shepherd and guiding me through life. I know that I can trust in you to provide for all my needs. As Psalm 23:1 says, "The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want."

I confess that I have often worried about school and been discontent with the status of my relationships. I have sought after money, good grades, and men thinking that it would bring me happiness and contentment. But as Ecclesiastes 5:10 reminds me, "Whoever loves money never has money enough; whoever loves wealth is never satisfied with his income. This too is meaningless."

Instead, I want to seek your kingdom and righteousness, as Matthew 6:31-33 instructs. "Do not worry then, saying, 'What will we eat?' or 'What will we drink?' or 'What will we wear for clothing?' For the Gentiles eagerly seek all these things; for your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you."

Lord, help me to trust in you and find contentment in you, rather than in material possessions, wealth, or anything else. Help me to remember that true peace and fulfillment only come from you and will never come from the things of this world.

Thank you for your goodness and provision in my life. I pray that you would continue to guide me and lead me in your ways.

In Jesus' name I pray, Amen.

Psalm 23:1 NIV

“The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing.”

There may be a lot of things in this world that I don’t have but that is not the goal of my life. The goal is to be a disciple and make other disciples! God has given me all the tools for that, He provides for all my physical and spiritual needs so truly I lack nothing. What matters is to change my perspective in seeing that I already have everything!

Ecclesiastes 5:10 NIV

“Whoever loves money never has enough; whoever loves wealth is never satisfied with their income. This too is meaningless.”

In the world we live in, we need money in order to live our lives. It is not a bad thing to want to be financially stable. The issues lies when you make getting money your priority. You will never have what you deem as enough and to continue putting your full effort into something that is fleeting instead of something that’s eternal is foolish and meaningless. Yes money is important but not as important as God and His kingdom!

Matthew 6:31-33 NIV

“So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”

First we need to acknowledge that these are Jesus’ words. He is the one who reassures is that God knows what we need and if we seek first His kingdom and His righteousness then all these things will be given to us as well!

[unfoldingmoments]

Waiting on God

God's timing: 1. God has schedule in every area 2. God's timing is his sovereignty You don't get to know the time, timing is the Father's business. 3. God's timing is always on time 4. If it's God's time, God can do anything in instant. 2 reason God asks us to wait: 1. To test the purity of our faith 2. Working on our character What can we do while we wait God's timing? 1. Maintaining our Faith We call Abraham “father” not because he got God’s attention by living like a saint, but because God made something out of Abraham when he was a nobody. Isn’t that what we’ve always read in Scripture, God saying to Abraham, “I set you up as father of many peoples”? Abraham was first named “father” and then became a father because he dared to trust God to do what only God could do: raise the dead to life, with a word make something out of nothing. When everything was hopeless, Abraham believed anyway, deciding to live not on the basis of what he saw he couldn’t do but on what God said he would do. And so he was made father of a multitude of peoples. God himself said to him, “You’re going to have a big family, Abraham!” - Rome 4:18 The Message 2. Be Patient Never compare to others answered prayers/ success story. And thus Abraham, having patiently waited, obtained the promise. - Hebrew 6:15 ESV And so, having patiently waited, he realized the promise [in the miraculous birth of Isaac, as a pledge of what was to come from God] - Hebrew 6:15 AMP 3. Hold on to God's promises My hands also I will lift up to Your commandments, Which I love, And I will meditate on Your statutes - Psalms 119: 48 NIV 4. Keep perseverance Stay diligent and consistent in reading God's word, prayers, working as if you work for the Lord. You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what he has promised. - Hebrew 10:36

"And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up." - Galatians 6:9

Point to remember: 1. The first stress releaser/ medicine for free from stress is to believe in God. But I trust in you, LORD; I say, “You are my God.” 15 My times are in your hands; deliver me from the hands of my enemies, from those who pursue me. - Psalms 31:14-15 2. Change the worry/ anxiety/ fear energies to prayers.

3. Never give up on God's promises for your life. [The Lord answered] “Can a woman forget her nursing child And have no compassion on the son of her womb? Even these may forget, but I will not forget you. “Indeed, I have inscribed [a picture of] you on the [a]palms of My hands; Your city walls [Zion] are continually before Me.

Footnotes

Isaiah 49:16 In Jewish tradition there is a story representing Israel as God’s daughter, who asks Him to stamp a seal of her on His heart and arm (Song 8:6). God replies that such a seal cannot always be seen, so He has instead inscribed her upon His palms.

Isaiah 49:15-16 AMP Other version:

“Can a woman forget her nursing child, [a]And not have compassion on the son of her womb? Surely they may forget, Yet I will not forget you. See, I have inscribed you on the palms of My hands; Your walls are continually before Me.

Footnotes

Isaiah 49:15 Lit. From having compassion

Reference Notes from IBADAH UMUM GMS JABODETABEK 04 JUNI 2023 By PS. MAGDALENA CHRISTINA (BAHASA INDONESIA ONLY) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dpYE-DqmxY4

[shammah8]

🌎RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL ~ PASTOR CHRIS🌎

⚡️A DIVINE PARENTAGE⚡️

MONDAY, APRIL 17TH

Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world (1 John 4:4).

Being born again means you’re God’s offspring; you’re a divine being. You’re not an ordinary person, because you have in you the same life that God has. When Jesus walked the earth, He had this consciousness. In John 6:38, He said: "For I came down from heaven…." He affirmed His divine origin.

This is how you must think, talk, and live. Be conscious of your divine origin. You hail from God. Your true parentage is divine. Like the Lord Jesus, speak with confidence and authority in affirming who you are. Recall what the psalmist said in Psalm 82:6, “I have said, Ye are gods; and all of you are children of the most High.”

We're gods because we’re born of God. Just in case you’re thinking the psalmist might have gone too far, read the words of the Master Himself in John 10:34; He reiterated the same words. He said, “…Is it not written in your law, I said, Ye are gods?” Align yourself with God’s Word, His thoughts and visions of you, and speak accordingly.

Every so often, affirm that you’re an associate of the God-kind; as Jesus is, so are you: “Herein is our love made perfect, that we may have boldness in the day of judgment: because as he is, so are we in this world” (1 John 4:17). Let your consciousness of who you are in Christ—the consciousness of your divinity—control everything you say and do. Let it control everything about your life.

CONFESSION

I walk in dominion over the elements of this world and over demons, disease and death, because I’m born of God! The life of Christ is manifested in me, from glory to glory, and I walk in the consciousness of my divine origin, in the Name of the Lord Jesus. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY:

2 Peter 1:4; John 5:26; 1 John 5:11-13 NIV

[mentacose-archive]

Ok but how do i get to heaven?

Hi!! Thanks for the question, I hope you haven't been waiting long for an answer. But I'll point you to some biblical verses that I looked up on the subject.

Believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God, that He died for your sins, and that He rose from the dead.

Then he brought them out and said, “Sirs, what must I do to be saved?” And they said, “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved, you and your household.” (Acts 16:30-31 ESV)

But what does it say? “The word is near you, in your mouth and in your heart” (that is, the word of faith that we proclaim); because, if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For with the heart one believes and is justified, and with the mouth one confesses and is saved." (Romans 10:8-10 ESV)

And this is eternal life, that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent. (John 17:3 ESV)

Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. (John 14:6 ESV)

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him. (John 3:16-17 ESV)

Confess your sins to God and repent.

And saying, “The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand; repent and believe in the gospel.” (Mark 1:15 ESV)

And Peter said to them, “Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. (Acts 2:38)

If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. (1 John 1:9 ESV)

I acknowledged my sin to you,     and I did not cover my iniquity; I said, “I will confess my transgressions to the Lord,”     and you forgave the iniquity of my sin.  (Psalm 32:5 ESV)

You are saved by grace, not by good works.

For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast. (Eph. 2:8-9 ESV)

We ourselves are Jews by birth and not Gentile sinners; yet we know that a person is not justified by works of the law but through faith in Jesus Christ, so we also have believed in Christ Jesus, in order to be justified by faith in Christ and not by works of the law, because by works of the law no one will be justified. (Galatians 2:15-16 ESV)

But when the goodness and loving kindness of God our Savior appeared, he saved us, not because of works done by us in righteousness, but according to his own mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit, whom he poured out on us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior, so that being justified by his grace we might become heirs according to the hope of eternal life. (Titus 3:4-7 ESV)

All of us have become like one who is unclean, and all our righteous acts are like filthy rags; we all shrivel up like a leaf, and like the wind our sins sweep us away. (Isaiah 64:6 NIV)

I hope this answers your question! But if you want to look further into salvation, I would recommend checking out my friend's blog @thescienceofapologetics. Her #salvation tag goes more in depth about this subject.

[servantoflordjesuschrist]

Isolation can sometimes be beneficial to you, and in some cases, even if you fall ill, I would say it’s just a cross from God. You only realize this when you start walking a right godly narrow path, that it is meant to prevent you from complicating your journey with foolishness in your youth and adulthood, where problems and pitfalls are greatest. You need to make decisions correctly as a Christian, and if that’s not possible until maturity, it’s not intentional. The worldly, invisible lethargy, blindness, and delusion of this world can persist for generations, and many will never come to understand unless they do what is necessary. A well-known Slovak proverb is: "Help yourself, and even God will help you." And then, if it is still necessary, you should consider true family and friends, because true family is in the Heavenly realm and we are here only on trial. When it comes to children, there are already many orphans, so it’s not about just producing more. Related Bible Verses: 1. Isolation and Growth: Psalm 119:71 (NIV): "It was good for me to be afflicted so that I might learn your decrees." Hebrews 12:6 (NIV): "Because the Lord disciplines the one he loves, and he chastens everyone he accepts as his son." 2. Making Wise Decisions: Proverbs 3:5-6 (NIV): "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight." James 1:5 (NIV): "If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you." 3. Worldly Blindness: 1 John 2:16 (NIV): "For everything in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—comes not from the Father but from the world." 2 Corinthians 4:4 (NIV): "The god of this age has blinded the minds of unbelievers, so that they cannot see the light of the gospel that displays the glory of Christ, who is the image of God." 4. True Family and Friends: Matthew 12:50 (NIV): "For whoever does the will of my Father in heaven is my brother and sister and mother." Galatians 6:10 (NIV): "Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers." 5. Children and Orphans: Psalm 68:5 (NIV): "A father to the fatherless, a defender of widows, is God in his holy dwelling." James 1:27 (NIV): "Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world."

Topic: Isolation, Trials, Christian Growth, and True Family The text you’ve shared reflects several profound themes that are deeply rooted in Christian theology and human experience. It speaks about how isolation, illness, and difficulties in life can be seen as trials allowed by God to lead us onto the right path. These trials help to avoid the distractions and foolishness of worldly pursuits,…

[marysittingathisfeet]

Passing Through The Waters; Walking Through The Fire

Isaiah 43:2 NIV

When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze.

What is walking through the waters? Firstly, we see that the verse says WHEN not IF. That means you can count on having to go through both fire and water. But God wants to remind us that He will be with us.

So what does God mean when he says we will pass through the waters. Of course, the Israelites crossing the Red Sea with Pharoah’s army bearing down on them. Pharoah had murder in his heart, but God made a way where there was no way. He revealed His power to not only his people and the Egyptian army that day, but also across the world. We read that 40 years later when the Israelites were coming into their promised land, the people were still talking about God’s power that day.

Rahab is speaking to the two spies…” and said to them, “I know that the Lord has given you this land and that a great fear of you has fallen on us, so that all who live in this country are melting in fear because of you.” Joshua 2:9.

David talks about Deep Waters in Psalm 69...Psalms 69:1-2 -Save me, O God, for the waters have come up to my neck. I sink in the miry depths, where there is no foothold. I have come into the deep waters; the floods engulf me.

David talks about his sin and repentance in the next several verses. He also talks about how people make fun of him. He writes about how he is scorned by various people...

Psalm 69: 19- For you know how I am scorned, disgraced, and shamed; all my enemies are before you. Scorn has broken my heart and has left me helpless; I looked for sympathy, but there was none, for comforters, but found none.

Psalms 69:26 For they persecute those you wound and talk about the pain of those you hurt.

So what are the waters? Sometimes the people who are supposed to support us when we stumble, reject us. Like the ocean you can feel as though you are drowning. Sin can send us into the water. People's ridicule, hatred, or scorn can feel overwhelming especially if we have done nothing to offend them. People's judgment or rejection of us can send us into the deep. 

We who are strong ought to bear with the failings of the weak and not to please ourselves. Each of us should please our neighbors for their good, to build them up. Romans 15:1-2

Does this mean not setting boundaries or enabling people? No. When a person is TRULY repentant and wants to change their ways, this is when people should step in and support them. For example: Encourage the addicted to complete rehab. Avoid taking them to areas of temptation.

why did God say pass through the water and then pass through the rivers? Are they not both water? 

Rivers are powerful. A raging river can cause destruction to the land. If you fall into a river, its currents can sweep you away and you can drown. This verse shows the power of our words. Words spoken in anger or without love can have an everlasting effect.

When I weep and fast, I must endure scorn: when I put on sackcloth, people make sport of me. Those who sit at the gate mock me, and I am the song of drunkards. Psalm 69:10-12

What can we do when the waters seem overwhelming? When are we hurt because of people’s rejection or harsh words?

But I pray to you, Lord, in the time of your favor; in your great love, O God, answer me with your sure salvation. Psalm 69: 13

God will never leave you or forsake you. There is nothing that can separate you from God.

For I am persuaded that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord".  Romans 8: 38-39

….When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze.

What is the fire then? Naturally we think of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego who are thrown into the fiery furnace because they refuse to bow down to the giant golden image set up by King Nebuchadnezzar.

"Dear friends, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal that has come on you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice in as much as you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed". 1 Peter 4: 12-13

Here persecution is represented as fire. Why does persecution come? The Bible teaches that persecution is caused more especially by man's sinful nature. People who do not know God or are rebellious toward God hate to hear the name of Jesus and preaching about his death on the cross. They do not like the conviction. Some do not want to submit their will to God. Others like Paul had mistaken zeal toward the Lord. They think they are doing God’s will. What happened to the three Israelites who were persecuted by the King of Babylon?

“Then King Nebuchadnezzar leaped to his feet in amazement and asked his advisers, “Weren’t there three men that we tied up and threw into the fire?” They replied, “Certainly, Your Majesty.” He said, “Look! I see four men walking around in the fire, unbound and unharmed, and the fourth looks like a son of the god.” Daniel 3: 24-25

When persecution comes, and it will…

Jesus says, "If they persecuted me, they will also persecute you". John 15:20

Remember that you are not in the fire alone, but God is walking with you. Jesus himself said…

Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 11 Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. 12 Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you. Matthew 5:10-12

And what happens to the persecutors? Well king Nebuchadnezzar went crazy and roamed the wilds for 7 years as an animal until he gave glory to God.

“At the end of that time, I nebuchadnezzar, raised my eyes toward heaven, and my sanity was restored. Then I praised the Most High: I honored and glorified him who lives forever.” Daniel 4: 34

All who rage against you will surely be ashamed and disgraced; those who oppose you will be as nothing and perish” Isaiah 41:11

“Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath; for it is written: “It is mine ot avenge; I will repay, says the Lord” Romans 12: 19

This is why God tells us in Matthew 5:44 But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.

[templardom]

God’s Whistleblower

The eyes of the LORD are in every place, keeping watch on the evil and the good. Proverbs 15:3 (ESV)

Wake up! Strengthen what remains and is about to die, for I have found your deeds unfinished in the sight of my God. Remember, therefore, what you have received and heard; hold it fast, and repent. But if you do not wake up, I will come like a thief, and you will not know at what time I will come to you. Apocalypse 3:2-3 (NIV)

The iniquities of a wicked man entrap him; the cords of his sin entangle him. He dies for lack of discipline, led astray by his own great folly. Proverbs 5:22-23 (BSB) 

Wealth is treacherous, and the arrogant are never at rest. They open their mouths as wide as the grave, and like death, they are never satisfied. In their greed they have gathered up many nations and swallowed many peoples. Habakkuk 2:5 (NLT)

What sorrow awaits those who try to hide their plans from the LORD, who do their evil deeds in the dark! “The LORD can’t see us,” they say. “He doesn’t know what’s going on!” Isaiah 29:15 (NLT) 

“And now, you priests, this warning is for you. If you do not listen, and if you do not resolve to honor my name,” says the LORD Almighty, “I will send a curse on you, and I will curse your blessings. Yes, I have already cursed them, because you have not resolved to honor me." Malachi 2:1-2 (NIV) 

Why has the wicked man renounced God? He says to himself, “You will never call me to account.” Psalm 10:13 (BSB) 

Calamity will surely destroy the wicked, and those who hate the righteous will be punished. Psalm 34:21 (NLT) 

[walkswithmyfather]

“[1] To you, O Lord, I lift up my soul.[2] O my God, in you I trust;do not let me be put to shame;do not let my enemies exult over me. [4] Make me to know your ways, O Lord;teach me your paths.[5] Lead me in your truth, and teach me,for you are the God of my salvation;for you I wait all day long. [10] All the paths of the Lord are steadfast love and faithfulness,for those who keep his covenant and his decrees.[11] For your name's sake, O Lord,pardon my guilt, for it is great.[12] Who are they that fear the Lord?He will teach them the way that they should choose.[13] They will abide in prosperity,and their children shall possess the land.[14] The friendship of the Lord is for those who fear him,and he makes his covenant known to them. [21] May integrity and uprightness preserve me,for I wait for you.” (From Psalm 25, NRSV)

“I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you; I will remove from you your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh.” (Ezekiel 36:26, NIV)

“Softening Your Heart” By In Touch Ministries: “When you trust God, there's no limit to what He can do through your life.”

“When we continually spend time with God in His Word, His presence will saturate our heart, making us sensitive and teachable. But just as a human relationship can grow cold unless we intentionally nurture it, the heart can gradually harden when we aren’t seeking intimacy with God. For our heart to stay soft and receptive, we must obediently—and promptly—respond to whatever the Lord tells us to do.

If you believe that God might be leading you in a certain direction, take the time to earnestly seek His mind on the matter and intentionally listen for His response. Then avoid getting busy with a substitute for what He originally called you to do. It would be tragic to work hard doing what you and others consider good, only to discover that you accomplished something that was not God’s intention.

Resisting the Lord often amounts to setting His purposes for your life on a shelf. And that will likely leave you feeling something is missing. There’s no substitute for God’s will, even when His plan might seem difficult or impossible. But when you trustfully approach God with a cooperative heart, there’s no limit to what He can accomplish through your life. So, step out in obedience today and say, “Lord, I want Your will—no matter what.”

[Photo thanks to Ian Dooley at Unsplash]

[yhwhrulz]

Today's Daily Encounter Tuesday, September 17, 2024

Our Most Important Relationship

"For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well."1

God, the Creator of the universe, chooses us. And His purpose in doing so is not just to save us from eternity in hell. He wants to have a close relationship with each of his children.

To achieve this requires:

Commitment. God showed His commitment by rescuing us from sin through His Son, Jesus Christ, by sending the Holy Spirit to live in us and promising us eternal life. The reasonable response is our promise of obedience both in inward attitude and in outward actions.

Clear communication. To develop a close bond, two people will express deep thoughts and feelings, and they will also listen carefully to the other person's words. God speaks to us and communicates His plans through the Holy Scriptures, and He is also ready to listen to us! (Psalm 10:17).

Openness. God speaks to us honestly about our nature, the condition of the world, and the only solution—Jesus Christ. He tells us the truth about us, but he also encourages and affirms us in our efforts to follow him. Therefore, it is our responsibility to be honest with Him about our thoughts, actions, and emotions.

Salvation is only the first step of life in Christ (John 3:16). Have you accepted God's invitation?

Suggested Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, help me to understand all that is in my heart. Make me aware of what is holding me back, what I have never noticed, and what I am afraid to see. Help me to remember that your truth sets me free. Help me to commit, have clear communication, and be in complete openness to grow in my relationship with you. I pray in Jesus' name, Amen.

Psalms 139:13-14 (NIV).

Today's Encounter was written by: Rosina N.

NOTE: If you would like to accept God's forgiveness for all your sins and His invitation for a full pardon Click on: http://www.actsweb.org/invitation.php. Or if you would like to re-commit your life to Jesus Christ, please click on http://www.actsweb.org/decision.php to note this.

Daily Encounter is published at no charge by ACTS International, a non-profit organization, and made possible through the donations of interested friends. Donations can be sent at: http://www.actscom.com

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Copyright (c) 2016 by ACTS International.

When copying or forwarding include the following: "Daily Encounter by Richard (Dick) Innes (c) 2005-2023 ACTS International

[mybeautifulchristianjourney]

Effective Prayer

This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us. And if we know that he hears us—whatever we ask—we know that we have what we asked of him. — 1 John 5:14-15 | New International Version (NIV) Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV® Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® All rights reserved worldwide. Cross References: 1 Kings 3:12; Psalm 145:19; Proverbs 10:24; Matthew 7:7; John 14:13; James 4:3; 1 John 2:28; 1 John 5:18-19 and 20

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What is the significance of “if we ask anything according to His will”?

[occupyhades]

Backstabber Watch

The eyes of the LORD are in every place, keeping watch on the evil and the good. Proverbs 15:3 (ESV)

Do not call conspiracy everything these people regard as conspiracy. Do not fear what they fear; do not live in dread. Isaiah 8:12 (BSB) 

Dear friend, do not imitate what is evil but what is good. Anyone who does what is good is from God. Anyone who does what is evil has not seen God. 3 John 1:11 (NIV) 

As for a person who stirs up division, after warning him once and then twice, have nothing more to do with him, knowing that such a person is warped and sinful; he is self-condemned. Titus 3:10 (ESV) 

Do not cause anyone to stumble, whether Jews, Greeks or the church of God. 1 Corinthians 10:32 (NIV)

Outwardly you look like righteous people, but inwardly your hearts are filled with hypocrisy and lawlessness. Matthew 23:28 (NLT)

May no slanderer be established in the land; may calamity hunt down the man of violence. Psalm 140:11 (BSB)

Calamity will surely destroy the wicked, and those who hate the righteous will be punished. Psalm 34:21 (NLT)