Now that we've seen how to prepare for battle, let's think of some battles in Scripture. Some of these battles you may never have thought of a fight, but I do. THere may not have been any actual physical, or hand-to-hand combat, but it was a struggle none-the-less. We'll start with what I think is one of the most famous of the "Biblical Battles": David and Goliath is found in 1Samuel 17:1-58 (how'd you know I was going to say that?). Now, here we have this "pipsqueak" (compared to Goliath) who took a stand against this HUGE, 9ft. tall Philistine, All of the other "servants of King Saul" stood by petrified. Have you ever done that? A problem, YOUR giant Philistine, comes along - think bounced check, speeding ticket, unexpected pregnancy, etc. You pray SOMEONE, somewhere will handle this. Maybe, you get a surprise bonus that pays for the check in full, a kind Judge lets you off "THIS TIME", and unfortunately some look to abortion to handle an unexpected pregnancy. Whatever, just so WE don't have to face...
This weeks Bible Study is entitled, "Famous Battles of the Bible". It is also a week to honor and support those in the Armed Forces and in Law enforcement. Independence Day is a day that we remember those who fought, and who are fighting still today the battles for us that ensure our freedom from tyranny, fear, crime, and the freedom to WORSHIP AS WE CHOOSE!
The military carries various gear to carry them into battle. They dress in BDU's (Basic Duty Uniforms), have flak jackets, helmets, boots, guns, ammo, etc. Law enforcement personnel must dress in uniform, boots, hats, gun belt, ammo, and most importantly, each patrol officer is required to wear a bullet proof vest. They must be prepared to fight for and defend their lives, and ours, every minute of every day.
Like them, we all stand under attack of evil every minute of every day. Satan constantly tries to lure is away from Christ. He puts temptations in our way, the temptation to lie, be lazy, lust after...
Hello everyone and Blessings from South Alabama. Tonight, I have a devotional that is very near and dear to my heart. I don't believe that a "RELIGION" will get you to Heaven. Only the acceptance of Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior will get you there. Not works, not deeds, not the number of "toys" you acquire here on Earth. None of that. As a matter of fact, you will leave all of your "toys" here when you go home if you have been born again. Please pay attention to this months study in the Gospel of Luke, Chapter 24 verses 46 and 47.
I have a devotional by Dr. Charles Stanley called, "Pathways to His Presence". On the April 2nd study, Dr. Stanley offers the prayer, "Lord, let me never forget that where religion is complicated, faith is simple: Jesus died for my sins and through repentance I am reconciled to God".
I hear so many excuses why to NOT go to Church, and many of them center around RELIGION. I don't profess to be an expert on anything - well, except maybe screwing up (you can smile here) - but I do know a little bit (enough...
Why do you go to Church? If you are a Believer, answer here: __________________________________________
If you are a non-Believer, answer here: ______________
_______________________________________________
No matter which category you fall into, I bet some of the answers are the same. How about, "I'm supposed to go to Church on Sunday", or "this really cute guy/girl from the office/school/neighborhood goes here", or the all time favorite, "they eat right after service!" (you can smile here). After all, these were (are) some of the things I'VE said (say) before I was saved and even now that Jesus has delivered me. I've been frustrated with "Churches" all my life and sometimes I still let the enemy - Satan, enter in. But I never have a better day then when I am in Church somewhere.
In Hebrews 10, we are reminded of Christ's sacrifice for everyone and we are called to persevere. Hebrews 10:25 commands, "Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another and all the more as you see the day approaching."
Have you ever made an excuse for not going to a Church? Yes or No
Why? List some reasons: _________________________...
For anyone who knows my history, you know that in November I was arrested. My legal status is still pending, but I have really developed a heart for prisoners and thier families. I now know that prisoners are not wholly bad and that in most cases need direction and comfort. This is where I want to serve. I pray provides me with the opportunities. If you know of anyone, please contact me.
Bible Study #1 Ps. 48:14 "Letting God Lead" Actually posted 4/15/08
April 15, 2008
I'd like to start this study with a question - Do you ever feel Lost? I know this is a Christian study, but don't panic - I am not restricting this question to just "lost in sin" (although if you are in that condition, stop now and get right with the Lord). It could mean lost in your marriage, lost in an addiction, lost in life, lost in your career (or lack thereof); whatever the situation is that you need direction in; do you have that direction?
Think back for a moment to early childhood. When you were asked what did you want to be when you grew up, how did you respond? ________________________________________________
For me, I answered a Princess (probably because that's what I was called), then later a Nurse (my Mom's occupation), to a Firefighter (Daddy's career), etc. I never once imagined that I'd make some of the choices that I did, and have the life I do now. I'm NOT complaining about my life, it's just not what I imagined when I was asked that question as a kid.
Now, let me ask you this (and take a few minutes to actually meditate on this question) What...