Bible

SPIRITUAL COMPLACENCY

deanstuyvesant , , , , , , , , , ,

Spiritual Complacency

Where are you with God and His way? Have you become so overconfident with your relationship with Him that you may have entered into apathy?

Are you aware that spiritual complacency is a dangerous spiritual condition that can lead to an outright rejection of Jesus Christ? It leaves a person open to the attacks of satan and his ways.

In the old testament of the bible, it says that people became so complacent with God, they got into making idols. Do you have any idols in your life? It can be anything that comes before God.

One of the signs of spiritual complacency is being lukewarm in your relationship with Jesus. In Revelation 3:14-22 , the letter written to the Church of Laodicea, according to Jesus they were lukewarm. Evidently Jesus cannot stand people that are lukewarm. Another word for lukewarm is complacency. People will find that complacency is not contentment.

Another sign of spiritual complacency is looking upon success, which is far more dangerous than failure. The fruit of complacency is what you consume. In most cases it is what is dictating the direction of your life.

Here are some other indications of complacency.

Do you look at yourself other than what God does? Especially when we think we are doing okay spiritually. Do we compare ourselves with others? The Bible gives us an example in Luke 18: 10-14 of how to compare ourselves to the holiness of Jesus.

Do you live with an attitude of self-sufficiency? Are you trusting your own ability to handle the ways of life? Have you forgotten that God has control of your body, soul, and spirit? Everything good and I mean everything good including you was created by Him. We need to put Proverbs 3:5-6 in our heart and not depend on our understanding.

You have become comfortable with your life. A believer of Jesus should never be comfortable this side of heaven. Have you become so close to groups, systems, lifestyle, politics, etc. that we no longer seek the spiritual things of God. Do not let 1 John 2:15-17 become your lifestyle and lose what the Kingdom of God has for you.

Are you spiritually aware of what salvation in Jesus Christ is all about? Could you be spiritually dull about the understanding about accepting and believing in Jesus Christ as your Savior? Do you desire to live your life with Him? God gave us a book of instructions called the Bible. He gave us a pathway to communicate with Him, it is called prayer. Do you exercise these blessings in order to have victory over the forces of the devil or are trying to carry on without help from the only one who has provided you with victory, Jesus Christ. Read and follow Ephesians 6:12-18.

The real danger of complacency is when we are not paying attention to the real spiritual dangers such as you no longer have intimacy with Jesus as found in Mathew 7:21-23. You are no longer part of His purposes as stated in John 15:8. You are no longer prepared for the coming of Jesus Christ as found in John 5:28-30.

If there ever comes a time when you feel smug or satisfied with yourself regarding your achievements, or feel overconfident, you may be headed into spiritual complacency. I’m sure that most of us have had periods where complacency has entered our lives. If there comes a time when you think you are headed in that direction, get out of it as if your life depends on it.

Find the promises of God. The Bible has around 7000 promises. If you are following Jesus here is 7 promises He has for you.

Life – Matthew 16:24-25 It seems like an incredible contradiction, but we will only find life when we quit pursuing it. When we stop chasing the things we believe will bring us life and instead, pursue the creator of life, we discover life as it was designed to be.

Acceptance – John 6:37 Charles Spurgeon once called this one of his favorite verses. In this passage, we discover Christ’s assurance that he will not send those who come to him away. We see this acceptance peppered throughout his interactions in the Gospels. If we come to him, we will find him waiting with open arms. Christ’s invitation extends to everyone, and he accepts all those who follow him.

Reward – Mark 10:29-31, Following Jesus requires sacrifice. There are times when the immediate benefit of going our own way may appear to outweigh the potential gains of obedience. Jesus wants us to know that our sacrifices aren’t in vain and there’s nothing we can surrender that exceeds what’s attained in following him.

Revelation – John 14:21  When you get down to it, there’s an element of God’s truth that one can only understand from the inside. All the arguments and proofs for God’s existence pale in comparison to actually experiencing a relationship with God through Christ. Jesus promises us that, when we obey him, he will manifest himself to us.

Friendship with God – John 15:14-5 Jesus came to reconcile God to mankind. The surprise there isn’t just that a bridge would be built between God and humanity; it’s that we would enter this relationship as friends. Yet, this is exactly what Jesus promises us. 

Joy – John 15:9-11   We’re instructed to continually exist in God’s love, and he tells us that we can do that by keeping his commands. Our obedience keeps the relationship alive and active, allowing us to remain in his love. Why does he want to securely stay in this relationship? So, our joy will remain full.

Jesus promises us that joy is a byproduct of remaining in God’s love.

Trials – 2 Timothy 3:12 When you get down to it, following Jesus puts you at odds with the world. This persecution can vary in extremes. Some that belong to Jesus will lose friends, family, jobs, opportunities, maybe even their lives. This truth is partially why these other promises exist. It’s as if God is saying, “Following me will be a struggle, but here are the things I will promise those who persevere.”

Jesus says it this way: “Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me” (Matthew 5:10-11)

There is a very important question you need to answer, do you claim the promises of Jesus but do not believe with living in oneness with Him?

If there is a way, I can encourage you to examine your relationship with Jesus, I do so now. Every one of us is in a learning stage. If there are areas of your life that needs to change, share your heart with Jesus in prayer or just have a conversation with Him, then listen and keep listening. He hears you and will come to you.

Remember that Jesus loves you more than you can understand. We are entering a time when we celebrate the Gospel. Jesus suffered, died, buried, and rose from the dead and is alive so that we may live.

Jesus loves you and so do I.

BROKENNESS

deanstuyvesant , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

BROKENNESS

There are several definitions of brokenness. I want to look at the Biblical reference of the subject.

Brokenness, in God’s eyes, is being so crushed by the sin darkness of the world that we recognize there is no place to turn but to God.

You may ask why should we go through brokenness? When we are broken, God transforms our sinful lives into something that gives Him glory. In other words, you give Him the ability to clean you up, He puts His righteousness in you, and gets you headed in the right direction.

You and I will never meet God in revival until we first meet Him in brokenness. 

Important examples of brokenness is where Jesus went through agony at Gethsemane as stated in Mark 14:32-42, Matthew 27:45-46, Also, in Hebrews 2:18, where it says that Jesus was broken and suffered so that could relate to our needs.

When God created man, He gave human beings the power to make choices regarding their destiny. He did so that He would not be dictating their lives. We now have the responsibility to make choices. So,  if you make a bad choice and things go bad, don’t blame God.

Some choices you will make or not are, believing and receiving Jesus as Savior or not? The choice is yours. Is my name written in the Book of Life or not? The choice is yours. Reading, studying, believing, and following what the Bible says or not? The choice is yours. Some choices may be easy, and some may be difficult. The  eternal road to God’s Kingdom will cause some unwilling to go off course and chose another eternal destiny.

It appears that the present generation has been programmed to pursue happiness in whatever form to satisfy their pleasures. I can assure you that God is not interested in this direction as that kind of happiness will not last. God is more interested in making us like His Son Jesus. That is the pathway to holiness with humility and brokenness. God’s eternal kingdom is the opposite of what we have here on earth where satan has access to our lives.

Brokenness is a choice. Brokenness is not a feeling; rather, it is a choice, an act of our will. In most cases it is not a one-time experience. It most likely is an ongoing process.

If you don’t make a choice, you have made a choice!

What does God say about choices? According to Galatians 6:7-9, whoever sows to please their flesh, from the flesh will reap destruction; whoever sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life. A man reaps what he sows.

God is urging us to make serious and deliberate choices toward the conclusion of His purpose. He requires us to commit and make decisions. Remaining neutral is not an option. His issues are plainly defined: obedience vs. disobedience, life vs. death, good vs. evil. Every one of us have a choice: we can make excuses or follow God’s instructions as outlined in the Bible. God created us so we are free to follow Jesus or free to follow satan. It is a choice you make. If you make the wrong choice, who is going to be your advocate?

Scripture tells us that Jesus is close to those who have a broken heart and a contrite spirit. In our brokenness, it is important to know that we are not alone and that there is great hope. You may think the Scriptures are all rules and regulations. That is far from the truth. They have many purposes; one is to help you overcome satan’s temptations and lies. The most important is to have Jesus and His gift of salvation.

Have you ever noticed that test and trials, tend to draw us closer to God? That’s because subconsciously we realize, we cannot overcome it, in it of yourselves. Our power or intellect cannot make our current struggle, pain, anxiety go away completely. It can only offer temporary relief.  

We need Jesus. Matthew 11:28-30 says “Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 

Deuteronomy 30:15–20 NKJV 15 “See, I have set before you today life and good, death and evil, 16 in that I command you today to love the Lord your God, to walk in His ways, and to keep His commandments, His statutes, and His judgments, that you may live and multiply; and the Lord your God will bless you in the land which you go to possess. 17 But if your heart turns away so that you do not hear, and are drawn away, and worship other gods and serve them, 18 rI announce to you today that you shall surely perish; you shall not prolong your days in the land which you cross over the Jordan to go in and possess. 19 sI call heaven and earth as witnesses today against you, that tI have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing; therefore choose life, that both you and your descendants may live; 20 that you may love the Lord your God, that you may obey His voice, and that you may cling to Him, for He is your ulife and the length of your days; and that you may dwell in the land which the Lord swore to your fathers,


In our brokenness, it is important to know that we are not alone and that there is great hope. God has provided us with the  scriptures to encourage us when we have lost our way and to keep us going. 

The following paragraphs are some definitions of characteristics of broken people.

Broken people know that they can’t do anything of eternal value in their own strength. They understand only as they rest in Jesus Christ and allow Him to do His work in them and through them.

Broken people are Kingdom-oriented. They understand that what truly matters is getting to know God and getting to know who I am in Him as stated in Matthew 6:33.

Broken people have laid down their rights in front of God. They understand in reality that God is the giver of all good things. God has provided everything that sustains your life. They are grateful when important things occur in their lives but accept the fact that life does not turn out the way they would like it to be.

Broken people do not have to know everything, have a plan, being in control, and know everything that’s going on. They rest in Jesus Christ trusting Him to know and choose what they need to know.

Broken people cease doing things their way and learn to do them God’s way instead. Through their submissiveness, Atonement can take effect and true repentance can occur.

These are a few of the characteristics that God is making a difference through.

 God uses broken things and broken people to do great things. God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit are looking for those that will make a choice for them. Will you make the right choice or not?

I want to point out a couple especially important Bible verses that require a choice.

Acts 4:13 KJV says that, Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name (Jesus Christ) under Heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.

There is only one name to whom God has given authority by which one can experience salvation and that is Jesus. No one else has that power or authority.

In Revelation 20:12 KJV, stated that: and I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God; and the books were opened: and another book was opened, which is the BOOK of LIFE: and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works.

I would say that what is written in those verses are what choices people have made or did not make in their life here on earth. Again, I ask, Have you made the right choices or not? It is never too late as long as you are still breathing.

In closing, I pray that everyone will really consider the relationship they have with Jesus Christ. God wants you to freely give yourself over to Him. He created you and wants you to be part of His eternal family. Many have ignored the Bible, Jesus’ invitation, due to their choice of what you think of what you will give up. What you will give up is nothing compared to what God offers you in exchanged. It is either what God offers or what the  devil offers you. I guarantee you won’t like the latter. It will be your choice or not.

Many people have said that they will make a choice tomorrow. Proverbs 27:1 NIV Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring forth. Do what you need to do today. Don’t wait to receive Jesus. Don’t put off doing the will of God.

Today, Jesus said, “ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.” (John 8:32)

Psalms 51 is a prayer that can help you along the way. It’s a choice!

Jesus loves you  and so do I.

OUT WITH THE OLD, IN WITH THE NEW

deanstuyvesant , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

2024 A NEW YEAR
How much garbage are you bringing into the new year? Whatever it is, why are you carrying it into a new year? Most of what you are taking into a new year is your choice.
A lot of your choices come from self-help, social media, family, friends, new year resolutions, or some fad that is popular. Some may seem to be working out for the best, but to be honest, they turn out to be a disappointment in a short period of time. They do not bring comfort, joy, direction, and peace into our lives.
Most of our decisions are based on our senses, sight, smell, taste, hearing, and touch. They are carnal or of the flesh. We tend to follow the human nature side of our life.
The lower side of man is estranged from God and therefore prone to sin. The Divine Influence is absent from man.
According to the Bible, Matthew 15: 18-20 KJV – those things that proceed out of the mouth come from the heart, and they defile a man. For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adultery, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies. these are the things that defile a man.
Matthew 12:36-37 KJV But I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment. For by thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned.

Sometimes we need a little reminder that the best gift we can give others and ourselves is forgiveness. We can follow the example of Jesus and offer others forgiveness as he forgives us of our daily sins. Ephesians. 4:29-32 Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamor, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice: And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you. Could this be part of your garbage? The Bible is full of instructions for us to follow God, Jesus, and Holy Spirit.

According to Luke 12:10 And everyone who speaks a word against the Son of Man will be forgiven, but the one who blasphemes against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven. People refer to this extreme sin as unpardonable sin, the unforgivable sin, blasphemy against the Holy Spirit, and the eternal sin.
Who is the Holy Spirit? 6 definitions of who He is.
The Holy Spirit is a unique person.
The Holy Spirit is one both with the Father and with the Son.
The Holy Spirit was the agent of creation.
The Holy Spirit is the author of the new birth. Born Again Spiritually.
The Holy Spirit is the author of the Scriptures and the teacher.
The Holy Spirit is the Truth.

Continually failing to confess Jesus as your Savior will lead to final rejection, but actively opposing the work of the Holy Spirit puts one in a place where one can never turn from sin to Savior.

Jesus promised a Helper of the same kind rather than of a different kind. The Spirit is the parakletos, the one who comes alongside. Jesus said He would “be with you forever . . . he dwells with you and will be in you” (John 14:16-17.) In other words, His ministry is both permanent and personal.

God created you with a spirit. When you receive and confess Jesus as your Savior, the Holy Spirit joins your spirit and teaches you the truth. There must be a surrendering of self for you to receive His teaching. You cannot continue to live in your former lifestyle. God wants you to become like His Son and join His family

Dump your past garbage of 2023 and past and join Jesus for a new life in Him. You won’t be sorry! You become an heir to all that Jesus has and he is building a new Kingdom for all that come to Him. It is a paradise beyond your imagination. You will need to learn, and your subject matter is in the Bible.
John 5:5 Who is he that overcometh the world, but he that believeth that Jesus is the Son of God? Jesus loves you and so do I. Happy New Year!

TO READ, TO STUDY, OR TO MEDITATE?

deanstuyvesant , , , , , , , , , , ,

TO READ,TO STUDY, OR TO MEDITATE?

How do you discover what the Bible says to you? Are you following God’s Word on what He wants you to know to follow Him?

READ

If you are a reader of the Bible, there are benefits of showing you God’s character and provide some revelation of himself. You may learn how holy, faithful, and loving He is.

Also, you may come to know what God wants you to do. If you read Matthew 22:37-38 you will find that God wants us to love Him with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. You will learn that this is the first and greatest commandment.

Do you know that God speaks to us through the Bible. Reading the Bible is like a baby drinking milk. What you begin to learn will be the introduction to your spiritual growth.

Psalm 119:105 says, “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” God’s word brings light to paths that otherwise seem dark. In the Bible you learn how to live wisely in God’s world, which is the first step toward finding your purpose. Psalm 23:2-3 says God will lead us.

You should not begin to read the Bible by jumping in and reading Revelation. My suggestion is to begin with 1,2,3,John or the Gospel of John. Otherwise, you may become discouraged. Another suggestion is to find a translation that is easy for you to read.

According to 2 Timothy3:16-17; All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God be complete, equipped for every good work. All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work. You need to focus on the important things. One of the rules of reading the Bible is found is found in James 4:17; Whoever knows the right thing to do and fails to do it, for him it is a sin.

STUDY

The second part of my message is about studying the Bible. Studying helps us to understand God and serve Him more efficiently. You need to understand that when God asks us to do something, He will reveal Himself to you so much more. You will learn about Him, depend on Him, Thank Him, and love others as He loves you.

Studying helps you seek out learning, wisdom, God’s will, faith, and much more. Jesus tells us to learn of me in Matthew 11:29. Take my yoke upon you and you will learn from me. The word yoke is a free gift to us that requires a willing submission on our part. It leads us to a posture of surrender and trust.

The Bible tells us in 2nd Timothy 2:15 to study to show ourselves approved. Studying the Bible opens your understanding. There are many topics to chose from in the Bible. When you study the Bible you will encounter blessings, hope, answered prayers, guidance, and so much more.

MEDITATE

Below are some Scriptures that refer to meditation.

Both Psalm 1 and Psalm 119 are calling believers to mediate on the Scriptures. Your life will be blessed with a  nourishment of God’s source. When you meditate on God’s Word, you will receive a receptive heart by the working of the Holy Spirit.

 Psalm 1:2 But his delight is in the law of the LORD, and on his law, he meditates day and night.

Psalm 119:48 My eyes are awake before the watches of the night, that I may meditate on your promise.

Ephesians 4:23 And to be renewed in the spirit of your minds.

Matthew 4:4  But he answered, “It is written, “‘Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.’”

Romans 12:2  Not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the  renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.

Ephesians 4:23  And to be renewed in the spirit of your minds.”

Colossians 3:2   Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth.

One of the most important factors of reading, studying, and meditation is searching for TRUTH. Regardless of what you may have heard, read, or seen; it must totally agree with what the Scriptures says. This is where the help of the Holy Spirit comes in. Don’t rely on your senses for God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit work in the Spiritual realm and so must you to know the truth and the truth will set you free according to John 8:32.

What ever method you choose in looking into God’s Word is beneficial. The deeper you investigate God’s Word, the closer you come to Him and the closer He comes to you. Life is all about choices. We can make wise choices or foolish ones. It’s your choice.

Jesus loves you and so do Is

DO YOU BELIEVE OR DON’T BELIEVE?

deanstuyvesant , , , , , , , , , , ,

DO YOU BELIEVE OR DON’T BELIEVE?
According to a book called the Bible, this book was given to people for instructions on living our lives here on earth and preparation for the hereafter. The Bible was given to us by God through the Holy Spirit’s leadership of men and women chosen to write instructions for us to follow.
Ever since the Bible was created, it has been the most sought-after publication ever written. Also, it has been the target for destruction or prohibited from the public on several different occasions.
What is so interesting is that it still exists. I believe that it still is a popular book because it is a book that has with stood attempts to destroy it by the many ways of satan and his followers.
God and His Bible receive numerous accusations that God and His Word are lies since there is so much suffering and disasters taking place on a regular basis and God doesn’t do anything about it. That is just one example.
So, let’s look at other reasons why there is so much pain and suffering in our world today. The main reason is satan also known as the devil and he is real. Since he is not omnipresent, as God is, he has many demons, fallen angels, evil spirits, evil forces, and human followers at his disposal. They are constantly attacking people and things to create problems.
Another main problem is with people. There is apathy regarding lack of interest, enthusiasm, or concern, with what the Bible instructs us to be and do. There is an ignorance factor because we do not take time to acquaint ourselves with the book of instructions.
2 Timothy 2:15 KJV;NKJV – Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. That verse tells us to study. It does not just say to read. There is a big difference between studying and reading. Anyone who studies the Bible will come to know the truth and the truth will set you free according to John 8:32.
When Jesus redeemed mankind, He restored to us dominion through His Name. The responsibility for what we allow to happen on earth lies on the Christian, because Jesus has given us His authority.
Matthew 18:18 NKJV – “Assuredly, I say to you, whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.
God gave mankind dominion on earth. Our failure to know what the Bible is instructing us do will cause us to do nothing and that will cause problems in our lives. All you must do is look at the way our world is going. Look at the events that are happening in America today. Does anyone think that this is what God wants? Remember that God gave us dominion. Somehow it appears we are giving dominion over to the devil. I believe that very few people know what the Bible tells us because of ignorance and lack of believing what it says.
Luke 22:67 NKJV “If You are the Christ, tell us.” But He said to them, “If I tell you, you will by no means believe.
No one can force anyone to believe anything. Each one of us chooses whether we will believe something, based on our belief of the evidence presented to us. True evidence is in the Bible. Many of the events mentioned in the Bible have been proven and taken place to prove that the Bible is accurate. According to some statistics, there are approximately 2500 prophecies listed in the Bible. Of those listed approximately 2000 have been fulfilled. You are free to believe or not believe. It’s your choice.

Bible reading in America has dramatically decreased; people who do read their Bibles experience significant hope in their lives. When we read the Bible daily, it reminds us of how God has worked in ages past and what He will do for us in years to come. Someday the shock of reality will be revealed to you.

Faith and belief may have different English meanings, but in the New Testament they are different forms of the same Greek word. Believe is the verb and Faith is the noun for the same word.
Instead of people putting their belief in the Bible, they put faith in a person, a church, or someone’s book, or some other means. Why not the Bible? Maybe because it requires effort, time, interruption of job, fun or some other excuse. Whatever you put before God is a sin according to the Bible.
Either we trust God’s Word and His promises, or we live outside of His instructions and live a life of misery. Believe or don’t believe, the choice is yours. It’s never too late to make the right choice for God is love, peace, and joy and a whole lot more.

Bible reading in America has dramatically decreased. If you have lived during the 1930’s to present, you have seen a difference in life then and now. I believe it centers around the loss of following God’s instructions. Biblical knowledge and history illustrates the deterioration.

Today, people who do read their Bibles experience significant hope in their lives. People who study the Bible have a better insight of what God is planning. The Bible gives us knowledge of what God has done in the past and what He will do in the future.
I don’t contend that this life is perfect, but it is a lot better when Jesus Christ is in your life. We must trust the Word of God and His promises or suffer the consequences.
Along with reading and studying the Bible, there needs to be the companion of prayer. Prayer is an important part of our relationship with God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit.
Jesus is love. He suffered and died for everyone and is alive. He awaits your choice. He loves you and so do I.
For me to help others become acquainted with God’s Word, may I ask you to forward this message and free Bible offer to anyone who will help spread the Gospel. God Bless!
To help those that may not have a Bible, I am offering a free paperback copy, postage paid, of the New International Version (NIV) of the New Testament published by the International Bible Society. This copy is in English only and is only available to residents in the continental United States. This offer will only last as copies are available. Only one copy per address. I only ask that you are sincere about looking into God’s Word.
To place an order or answer any questions, please send an email with complete name and address to the following address: deanstuyvesant@gmail.com

WHO IS TO BLAME?

deanstuyvesant , , , , , , , , , ,

WHO IS TO BLAME?

Are you blaming God for your troubles and circumstances? Why?  Most of them have come from you not listening to what God has to say in life’s book of instructions called the BIBLE. Accept the responsibility for the choices you make because you do not follow His way or consult Him.  Don’t expect Him to help you when you ignore Him.

One way the devil gets into your thinking is through the words you speak. Matthew 12:36, 37; I tell you, on the day of judgment people will give account for every careless word they speak, 37 For by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned.”

On the reverse side is the benefit of having Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior. Then you have the Holy Spirit as your teacher. MARK 16:17 NKJ 17 “And these signs will follow those who believe: In My name they will cast out demons. For believers to cast out demons, it means they must have authority over the devil and his forces. However, unused authority conveys no benefit.

COLOSSIANS 1:13 NKJ 13 He has delivered us from the power of darkness (Satan) and conveyed us into the kingdom of the Son of His love. The only true powers the devil holds over a believer now is the power of deception, unbelief, and lack of knowledge of what God’s Word says. Look at how Satan deceived Eve in the Garden of Eden.

One of the ways the devil operates against you is through ignorance. God’s Word gives you the information that will set you free from both fear and ignorance.

God loves you and wants you to come into the salvation that He offers through His Son, Jesus Christ. The choice is yours to make. God has given each person the free will  to make their choices. What he hopes you will choose is His salvation in Jesus Christ and then receive the Holy Spirit who then will guide you into the truth. So many people think they know more than God and make their own choices that cause problems because the devil can enter their thinking and actions.

Take the step of inviting Jesus Christ into your life and experience His love. God loves you and so do I.

LOVE and GIVING

deanstuyvesant , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Do you know that Love and Giving go together like Love and Marriage, Horse and Carriage, Salt and Pepper, and Shoes and Socks, etc.?

Love gives according to the Bible. A familiar and popular verse is found in John 3: 16 NKJV “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.” God set the example for He is love and He gives. If you say you love then you must give. According to the Bible we must be careful how we use the word love. According to the Scriptures we will be held accountable for the words we speak as found in Matthew 12:36 NKJV. 36 But I say to you that for every idle word men may speak, they will give account of it in the day of judgment. Some people always talk of how badly they are treated and how things always go wrong for them. Should we be surprised? After all, Jesus told us in Mark 11:23 that we would have what we say.

There are many Scripture verses that give instructions about giving. According to what God says in the New Testament about giving. It is centered around the believer’s relationship with God. Leviticus 19:18 says you are to love your neighbor as yourself.

Giving is not all about money. Believers are to be willing to offer whatever the Lord may ask. It all depends on a person’s relationship with Jesus Christ. It could be time, food, water, care, clothing, attention, or whatever circumstances may warrant. One of the most important gifts a person can give is sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Being a seed planter could lead to salvation of a lost soul.

Whatever a person gives, it must come from their heart. God honors a cheerful giver. I don’t believe God wants us to give until we become a recipient of someone’s giving. One exception would be by God’s total leadership. All our giving must be done in love and through prayer and God’s guidance. By our giving in love, the Lord brings us into maturity of faith and we grow in dependance on Him. This will help develop our knowing God’s will for our lives here on earth.

One of the most important aspects of love and giving is when we realize what Jesus Christ did for us on the Cross of Calvary. When you receive and confess Jesus as your Savior and Lord, you join God’s family and you become an heir to all that Jesus has according to Romans 8:17 NKJV. God loves and God gives. In return you love Him and you give back to Him, then read and follow His instruction Book, the Bible.

When we give to Him freely from our heart with gratitude, we will come to realize that everything we have already belongs to Him including life. We own nothing.

There are five benefits of giving; Feeling Happy, Good Health, Social Connection, Gratitude, It is Contagious.

The only proof of love is giving. Giving is the action that demonstrates love. So, the measure of your giving is the measure of your love. The more you give — of yourself, your time, your attention, your affection, your patience, your treasure — the more you love.

According to Scripture, our greatest motivation for giving ought to be our love for others. Just as Jesus Christ died for the sins of others, we ought to give of ourselves for others.

Love calls us to “pray and never give up” Luke 18:1. John writes: “This is love, not that we love God, but God loves us” 1st John 4:10.

Jesus said in John 13:34; a new commandment I give you, that you love one another: just as I have you, you also are to love one another.

Also, John said in 1 John 4:7; Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God, and whoever loves has been born of God and knows God.The above verses tell us to love and give.

1 John 4:12-19 NKJV 12 No one has seen God at any time. If we love one another, God abides in us, and His love has been perfected in us. 13 By this we know that we abide in Him, and He in us, because He has given us of His Spirit. 14 And we have seen and testify that the Father has sent the Son as Savior of the world. 15 Whoever confesses that Jesus is the Son of God, God abides in him, and he in God. 16 And we have known and believed the love that God has for us. God is love, and he who abides in love abides in God, and God in him.

17 Love has been perfected among us in this: that we may have boldness in the day of judgment; because as He is, so are we in this world. 18 There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear, because fear involves torment. But he who fears has not been made perfect in love. 19 We love Him because He first loved us.

Now in closing, I want to leave you with a couple of scripture that are commandments for Love and Giving. They are,

Luke 6:35-36, “But love your enemies, do good to them, and lend to them without expecting to get anything back. Then your reward will be great, and you will be children of the Most High, because He is kind to the ungrateful and wicked. Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful.”

Matthew 6:14 NKJV 14 “For if you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. 15 But if you do not forgive men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.

In the Matthew verse there needs to be a willingness, in love, to step forward to the one who hurt you and give forgiveness just as God will forgive you. Is there someone in your life that you must forgive so that you may be forgiven?

In the Christian world, we can find all sorts of excuses not to obey God’s voice:  Excuse-making is self-sabotage.  2 Corinthians 5:10, For we must all appear before the judgement seat of Christ, so that each one may receive what is due for what he has done in the body, whether good or evil. God does not like excuses, so do not mock Him.

God is love. His love is agape love. Agape love is a sacrificial love. God is giving. He gave His Son as a sacrifice for our sins so that those who confess Jesus as Lord and Savior will have everlasting life with Him.

God loves you and so do I. How much do you love God and what are you willing to give Him?

>Hello

deanstuyvesant , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Hello,

This post is an addition to my story posted on my web site. The information is not in any way to promote myself. I pray that it may help someone realize the need to follow God’s instructions so they will enter God’s Kingdom when they pass on from this life.

How you may look at God, Jesus, Christianity, the Bible, or any aspect related to the Christian era, the facts have been proven. How much a person takes seriously is up for grabs? The question individuals need to ask themselves, where do I stand with God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit?  Once a person takes that final breath, there is no turning back or second chance.

In addition to the previous statement, have you asked yourself, why am I here on earth? Your purpose is clearly defined in the Scriptures. I can honestly say it is not for your self-satisfaction. If you don’t know, I will leave it up to you to search the Holy Bible for yourself.

Also, I am not going to promote or demote any denomination, church, or anyone’s belief. Everyone will stand in judgement before God on judgement day. We are all sinners, me included. The Bible says we have an advocate in Jesus Christ if we confess Him as our Lord and Savior. I have accepted His invitation, have you?

I do not profess to know everything that is written in the Bible. Also, I don’t know any human that does. The only person that knows is the Holy Spirit who through men inspired and wrote the Bible. Even the Apostle Paul who was taught by Christ said he knew very little.

Now, I want to share a little more about my life. I do so to show that having Jesus in my life and yours is important. My life has not been easy nor an easy road to travel. The poor choices I made were mine.

Many times, I chose things that turned out to be the wrong decisions. All because I did not include Jesus in the decision, I take full responsibility and do not blame God for my ignorance. Yes, there are occasions I still fail to ask God for help and I still pay for the outcome. I know that there are going to be some that say God expects us to make our own decisions. Well then, I ask what is the purpose of the Holy Spirit living in our bodies?

I am still alive at 861/2 years all because of the love and mercy of God. I have come close to death a few times. Some while I was in law enforcement and some due to my poor decisions. I am still alive because of the love, mercy, and the grace of God. He still has some missions for me. This post is one as there are many souls waiting to be informed and harvested before Jesus returns to gather up His bride as indicated in the end of the book of Revelation.

At the beginning of this post, I suggested that you search the Scriptures and find out why you came into being here on earth. Let me give you a couple of hints. First reason, God wants a family, so He wants people to join Him in His eternal Kingdom by making their own decision to accept Jesus as Lord and Savior. The Bible goes on and says that you must confess your decision. That means to tell others of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. The Gospel refers to His death, burial, and resurrection. God wants every born-again believer to take the Good News to those that have not come into salvation of Jesus Christ.

We will soon enter a New Year and I pray that this message will touch your life and that you in return will touch someone. I believe that you know at least one person that could spend eternity separated from God. It may even be a family member. 

There is a Gospel song that says a lot: “GO TELL IT ON THE MOUNTAIN THAT JESUS CHRIST IS LORD”

God loves you and so do I. May God bless your New Year.

I can be reached by email at deanstuyvesant@gmaail.com or at deanstuyvesant.com

SHARING MY FAITH

deanstuyvesant , , , , , , , , ,

SHARING MY FAITH

In 84 years + I have faced death, injuries, and health problems that have caused me to wonder why I am still around. The reason I believe is my God and Heavenly Father and Savior Jesus Christ have always been with me even though I have not always been with them.  I have come to understand that I have a very loving Heavenly Father and my Savior Jesus who took my sins to the cross so I may have a new life in Him.

Not only did Jesus give me a new life but I became a joint heir to all that is His. Part of that inheritance is sharing my faith with others regarding the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Jesus suffered and died on the Cross of Calvary for every human being. He was buried and on the third day He rose from the dead. He now sits at the right hand of God the Heavenly Father waiting to return and claim His Bride who are the ones who confess Jesus and believe He is Lord. I do.

Another part of that inheritance comes with what God says in the following verses in Psalms, Chapter 91, NLT during these pandemic times. I believe with all my heart and from experience that if you believe and have faith, God will take care of you especially during these troubled times.

Psalms 91 NLT

1 I live in the shelter of the Most High so I will find rest in the shadow of the Almighty.

2 This I declare about the LORD: He alone is my refuge, my place of safety; he is my God, and I trust him.

3 For he will rescue me from every trap and protect me from deadly disease.

4 He will cover me with his feathers. He will shelter me with his wings. His faithful promises are my armor and protection

5 I will not be afraid of the terrors of the night, nor the arrow that flies in the day.

6 I will not dread the disease that stalks in darkness, nor the disaster that strikes at midday.

7 Though a thousand fall at my side, though ten thousand are dying around me, these evils will not touch me.

8 I can just open my eyes, and see how the wicked are punished.

9 I make the LORD my refuge, I make the Most High my shelter,

10 so no evil will conquer me; no plague will come near my home.

11 For he will order his angels to protect me wherever I go.

12 They will hold me up with their hands so I won’t even hurt my foot on a stone.

13 I will trample upon lions and cobras; I will crush fierce lions and serpents under my feet!

14 The LORD says, “I will rescue those who love me. I will protect those who trust in my name.

15 When they call on me, I will answer; I will be with them in trouble. I will rescue and honor them.

16 I will reward them with a long life and give them my salvation.”

So, there you have the promises of God and the Bible has many more. He has done His part; the rest is up to you. You do not have to face life’s problems alone. God is full of love for you, His creation.

Surrender your life to Jesus and enjoy what God has already given you. I have and I give praise and  glory to Him. Love to all.

Happy New Year to all my Family, Friends, Military, Law Enforcement, First Responders, and to those that are unknown reading this greeting. As we say goodbye to a passing year and decade, we say hello to a new beginning. Do not look back on the past year but look ahead for what God has planned for you. Your future is not in the new year but what lies in our Savior Jesus Christ. He is the one who makes life new when you receive Him as your Lord and Savior. Seek the things of God and He will bless your new year. Proverbs 3:5-7 (KJV) 5 Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. 6 In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. 7 Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the LORD and depart from evil. You can make all the new year resolutions you want; most will be of no avail without surrendering your life to Jesus Christ. We live in a physical realm where most of our decisions are based on our 5 senses. God lives in a spiritual realm. God created you with a spirit. He also gave us the Holy Spirit. The purpose is so that we surrender our physical life to Jesus and join Him in the Spiritual realm. Look at what John 4:24 says; God is a spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and truth. If there are times in your life you feel God is not listening or near, maybe you are trying to reach Him while you are in the physical realm which will cause a bad connection. All your answers are in a book of instructions called the Bible. If you want a great new year then I suggest you begin to read it and if you do read it, consider studying it, both within the spiritual realm. This also includes your prayer life. God is love and He loves you more than you love yourself. Also, I love you and pray that you seek the truth.

deanstuyvesant , , , , , , , , , , , , ,