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Blessings from the Word

This week weve talked about the importance of knowing Gods Word as you step out in faith to reach your world. We learned that you dont have to be a scholar to witness, but Gods word will give you a passion for the lost, power in your speech, joy in your life, and a standard to live by. The last thing I want to tell you about the Bible is that in reading it, and getting to know it well, you will find great blessing.

Psalm 1 says, “Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked, or stand in the way of sinners, or sit in the seat of mockers. But his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on his law he meditates day and night.”

Reading the Bible is not a chore. Its not something you are forced to do either. Its something we are privileged to do- and it is a joy. If we meditate on Gods word often, we will be blessed. Its not we might be blessed, the scriptures say we will be blessed.

And if the Bible says something will happen, you can count on it. Ive found this to be true in my own life, and I know you will too. Read your Bible today, and as youre blessed, go out and bless others.

The Power of the Word

Throughout my years in ministry, Ive heard from many people that if I had their mother-in-law I wouldnt feel so victorious, or if I was married to their wife, I wouldnt feel so optimistic.

We all have difficult circumstances, but it is important to saturate our hearts and minds with the Bible- this helps us maintain the proper perspective. One glorious truth of the Bible is that nothing and no one can take away the power of Christ in you. Regardless of whats going in our lives, we are headed for Heaven and there is no greater joy than that.

St. Paul writes in Romans, “I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes.”

There is authority and power in the everlasting truth of the Bible. When you share the scriptures with others, it isnt some opinion- it is Gods Word. If you are a follower of Jesus- dont keep it to yourself. Tell anyone and everyone who will listen.

Get to know the scriptures well. Read them often. As you read you will find your passion for the lost renewed. The more you learn about the Lord Jesus the more youll want to tell people. Try it today, wont you? Reach out and discover the joy that comes with knowing Gods Word.

What’s Done for Christ will Last

My wife Pat often quotes the saying, “Only one life twill soon be past. Only whats done for Christ will last.” I like that. Our lives will fly by faster than we expect. The apostle Paul reminds us of that when he says “you are a mist that appears for a while and then vanishes.” So what are we doing to make a difference for eternity?

Ive met many believers who reflect the outward signs of committed Christians. Theyre involved in their churches. They love the Bible. Still, they seem to be stalled in their Christian walk. Theyre not growing in their faith, theyre not joyful and theyre not filled with the Holy Spirit.

Its so sad because theyre passing up opportunities to share their faith! So, how do we followers of Christ re-kindle the passion that first brought us to Him?

The answer is to get back to the basics. Re-surrender and welcome Christ back into your heart. Pray and worship. Read and meditate on your Bible. Share your faith with someone who needs to know Jesus. As you watch the Lord work, youll discover a new enthusiasm for the things of God.

Is it Time to Re-Surrender?

Some years ago I was visiting a church where a successful Christian businessman was telling his story to the congregation. “As a young man,” he said, “I answered an altar call to follow Christ and I surrendered all. I accepted Christ into my life and gave Him everything!” From somewhere in the back of the church a voice rang out – “I dare you to do it again!”

Many of us, when we were young, surrendered all to the Lord. It seemed easy to do when all we owned was a few pairs of jeans and a beat up car. Maybe thats why God often uses young people – because young men and women are more willing to give everything to the Lord.

Today, listen to Gods voice: is He challenging you once again to surrender all to Him? Dont hold back! Hebrews 3:15 says, “Today, if you hear His voice, do not harden your hearts.”

I pray that you will hear Gods call to re-surrender and re-commit your lives to His service. Once you do, youll experience a renewal of your spiritual passion that will strengthen you as you reach out to others with the Good News. When you surrender yourself 100% to proclaiming the way of salvation, God can use you in a big way.

Re-Surrender Can bring Lifestyle Changes

Scripture teaches us that the Christian life is a lifestyle saturated with God Himself. Our youngest son Andrew didnt discover the joy of a God-filled life until he was a grown man. But now Andrews an evangelist and shares his story around the world. He found hope and redemption when he finally surrendered his heart to Christ.

The apostle Paul prayed to the Ephesians that “God may strengthen you with power through His spirit…so that Christ may dwell in your hearts… that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.” Imagine how different your life would be if you were completely and totally filled with God Himself.

If you were completely filled with God, no area of your life would be untouched. You would love God so deeply. You would care so much more about your brothers and sisters in Christ. And you would have a passion to reach out to lost souls. The more we know the Lord, the more He becomes central in our lives and we become more and more like Jesus.

Nothing is more exciting than living a life thats filled with the Holy Spirit! Today, spend serious time with God and re-welcome Him back into your heart.