Jesus

TO READ, TO STUDY, OR TO MEDITATE?

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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?

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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

WHAT DOES EASTER MEAN TO YOU?

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WHAT DOES EASTER MEAN TO YOU?

How different Good Friday and Easter look from the time it took place and now. Jesus’ crucifixion took place around 30CE and 33CE which will be approximately 1993 years ago this year.

Maybe it would help us understand how Jesus suffered and the depth of His love for us sinners. Everyone needs to reflect on it so it will help us to realize the Passion of Jesus for us. I know that some are going to say it is too graphic. It is and people need to come to a knowledge of the love of God has for humans.

Because of the Roman Empire’s method of crucifixion, it has been considered the most horrifying death ever put on mankind. Everyone needs to look at what Jesus Christ went through for us sinners. We need to realize that He did so out of His love for you and me. It was God’s gift to us so we would not suffer eternal death and enjoy eternal life with Jesus in His new Kingdom. A place of no sorrow, pain, or death.

Jesus spent the night before Good Friday in prison being mistreated by the guards. Jesus endured tremendous physical suffering for you and me and won our salvation from eternal death. Before He was put on the cross, Jesus was whipped and beaten along with mockery, ridicule, and false accusations.

Jesus was tied to a pillar and flogged with a special whip that had small iron balls a few inches from the end of each of each leather thong. Sometimes, sharp sheep bones would be tied to the ends of the whip. The metal weights caused serious bruising, or contusions. The leather thongs would cut into the skin. The sheep bones would deepen the lacerations. After a few lashes, the depths of the cuts would reach the muscle tissue.  Each stroke of the whip would tear into Jesus’ body as parts of His flesh was torn from Him.

He now was shedding His precious blood for You and Me.

The whipping Jesus endured was with what is  called a “scourging whip,” so severe that it tore the flesh from His body. His entire body was bruised. The crown of thorns cut deeply into His scalp.  He was made to carry the cross to the site of His crucifixion. There came a point where his physical strength could not carry the cross. A man named Simon was ordered to carry the cross for Him. Jesus suffered around three hours after His hands and feet were nailed to the cross.

Part of Jesus sufferings was watching His closest friends abandoned Him. I can imagine how He feels today when people turn away from Him after what He went through for us.

I believe that Matthew 27:47 is telling  us how Jesus felt and how we will feel if we depart from this life without having Jesus as our advocate. Since God is Holy and hates sin and His Son took the sins of every human being upon Himself at the cross, God’s displeasure came to light.

I believe it would help to understand the meaning of Easter if we understood the depths of Jesus’ suffering and then realize how much He loves us. The Passion of our Lord and Savior is just one of many devotions He has for each person. The question is “how much love do we have for Him,” after all He went through for us.

It is through and by His death, that mankind can be reconciled to God.  The word “Gospel” refers to the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. This is the true meaning of Easter.

I want to make a point that I did not invent. Like all choices we must make in life, this one is most important.  Everyone and I mean everyone, needs to realize that the following scripture was made by Jesus. John 14:6 KJV, “Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me. The Apostle Peter echoed these words when he said, “Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men whereby we must be saved,” Acts 4:12, KJV. Paul concurred, “There is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus found in 1 Timothy 2:5 KJV.

The Easter story doesn’t end at the CROSS. Jesus came back from the dead showing that He was and is the one who He claimed to be as stated in Romans 1:4 KJV; and declared to be the Son of God with power, according to the Spirit of Holiness, by the resurrection from the dead.

Because Jesus lives, everyone who chooses can have a personal relationship through a spiritual born again experience with Jesus, the living God. Someday, everyone will meet Him. Have you made the right choice regarding your relationship with Him? Do you belong to Jesus?

Happy Easter. Jesus really loves you and so do I.

WHO IS TO BLAME?

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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

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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

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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

Christmas Story 1942

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Christmas Story 1942

The following story is one of the fine examples of giving for what the Christmas Spirit is about. As we are entering into the Christmas season, there seems to be a lot of posts regarding the true meaning of Christmas. Giving comes from what God gave us. It is the greatest gift ever given. There are over 50 names for that Gift such as Savior, Redeemer, Lord, Creator, Wonderful, Counsellor, and King of Kings.

This story brings a tear or two because I can relate somewhat to parts of the story. This may be why I am posting it.

I am so thankful that I come to know and receive Jesus Christs’ invitation to accept Him as my Savior and Lord. I now have the assurance of entering His Kingdom as a born-again believer as stated in John 14:6 Jesus said, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” and John 3:5 Jesus answered, “Very truly I tell you, no one can enter the kingdom of God unless they are born of water and the Spirit. Spirit refers to the Holy Spirit.

My prayer is that Jesus Christ is your Lord and Savior according to what the Bible states. Jesus loves you and so do I.

As Paul Harvey would say, “Now for the rest of the story.”.

It was Christmas Eve 1942. I was fifteen years old and feeling like the world had caved in on me because there just hadn’t been enough money to buy me the rifle that I’d wanted for Christmas.

We did the chores early that night for some reason. I just figured Daddy wanted a little extra time so we could read in the Bible. After supper was over I took my boots off and stretched out in front of the fireplace and waited for Daddy to get down the old Bible.

I was still feeling sorry for myself and, to be honest, I wasn’t in much of a mood to read Scriptures. But Daddy didn’t get the Bible instead he bundled up again and went outside. I couldn’t figure it out because we had already done all the chores. I didn’t worry about it long though I was too busy wallowing in self-pity.

Soon he came back in. It was a cold clear night out and there was ice in his beard. “Come on, Matt,” he said. “Bundle up good, it’s cold out tonight.” I was really upset then. Not only wasn’t I getting the rifle for Christmas, now he was dragging me out in the cold, and for no earthly reason that I could see. We’d already done all the chores, and I couldn’t think of anything else that needed doing, especially not on a night like this. But I knew he was not very patient at one dragging one’s feet when he’d told them to do something, so I got up and put my boots back on and got my coat. Mommy gave me a mysterious smile as I opened the door to leave the house. Something was up, but I didn’t know what..

We came in from the blind side of the Jensen house and unloaded the wood as quietly as possible then we took the meat and flour and shoes to the door. We knocked. The door opened a crack and a timid voice said, “Who is it?” “Lucas Miles, Ma’am, and my son, Matt, could we come in for a bit?”

Mrs.Jensen opened the door and let us in. She had a blanket wrapped around her shoulders. The children were wrapped in another and were sitting in front of the fireplace by a very small fire that hardly gave off any heat at all. Mrs.Jensen fumbled with a match and finally lit the lamp.

“We brought you a few things, Ma’am,” Daddy said and set down the sack of flour. I put the meat on the table. Then he handed her the sack that had the shoes in it. She opened it hesitantly and took the shoes out one pair at a time. There was a pair for her and one for each of the children – sturdy shoes, the best, shoes that would last. I watched her carefully. She bit her lower lip to keep it from trembling and then tears filled her eyes and started running down her cheeks. She looked up at my Daddy like she wanted to say something, but it wouldn’t come out.

“We brought a load of wood too, Ma’am,” he said. Then turned to me and said, “Matt, go bring in enough to last awhile. Let’s get that fire up to size and heat this place up.” I wasn’t the same person when I went back out to bring in the wood. I had a big lump in my throat and as much as I hate to admit it, there were tears in my eyes too. In my mind I kept seeing those three kids huddled around the fireplace and their mother standing there with tears running down her cheeks with so much gratitude in her heart that she couldn’t speak.

My heart swelled within me and a joy that I’d never known before filled my soul. I had given at Christmas many times before, but never when it had made so much difference. I could see we were literally saving the lives of these people.

I soon had the fire blazing and everyone’s spirits soared. The kids started giggling when Daddy handed them each a piece of candy and Mrs.Jensen looked on with a smile that probably hadn’t crossed her face for a long time. She finally turned to us. “God bless you,” she said. “I know the Lord has sent you. The children and I have been praying that he would send one of his angels to spare us.”

In spite of myself, the lump returned to my throat and the tears welled up in my eyes again. I’d never thought of my Daddy in those exact terms before, but after Widow Jensen mentioned it I could see that it was probably true. I was sure that a better man than Daddy had never walked the earth. I started remembering all the times he had gone out of his way for Mommy and me, and many others. The list seemed endless as I thought on it.

Daddy insisted that everyone try on the shoes before we left. I was amazed when they all fit and I wondered how he had known what sizes to get. Then I guessed that if he was on an errand for the Lord that the Lord would make sure he got the right sizes.

Tears were running down Widow Jensen’s face again when we stood up to leave. My Daddy took each of the kids in his big arms and gave them a hug. They clung to him and didn’t want us to go. I could see that they missed their Daddy and I was glad that I still had mine

At the door he turned to Widow Jensen and said, “The Mrs. wanted me to invite you and the children over for Christmas dinner tomorrow. The turkey will be more than the three of us can eat, and a man can get cantankerous if he has to eat turkey for too many meals. We’ll be by to get you about eleven. It’ll be nice to have some little ones around again. Matt, here, hasn’t been little for quite a spell.” I was the youngest. My two brothers and two sisters had all married and had moved away.

Mrs.Jensen nodded and said, “Thank you, Brother Miles. I don’t have to say, May the Lord bless you, I know for certain that He will.”

Out on the sled I felt a warmth that came from deep within and I didn’t even notice the cold. When we had gone a ways, Daddy turned to me and said, “Matt, I want you to know something. Your Mother and me have been tucking a little money away here and there all year so we could buy that rifle for you, but we didn’t have quite enough.

Then yesterday a man who owed me a little money from years back came by to make things square. Your Mom and me were real excited, thinking that now we could get you that rifle, and I started into town this morning to do just that, but on the way I saw little Jakey out scratching in the woodpile with his feet wrapped in those gunny sacks and I knew what I had to do. Son, I spent the money for shoes and a little candy for those children. I hope you understand.”

I understood, and my eyes became wet with tears again. I understood very well, and I was so glad Daddy had done it. Now the rifle seemed very low on my list of priorities. He had given me a lot more. He had given me the look on Mrs. Jensen’s face and the radiant smiles of her three children. For the rest of my life, Whenever I saw any of the Jensens, or split a block of wood, I remembered, and remembering brought back that same joy I felt riding home beside of my Daddy that night. He had given me much more than a rifle that night, he had given me the best Christmas of my life..

Just maybe we can become someone’s lighthouse in their storm this Christmas Season!!!

WHOM TO GIVE THANKS

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This is a little reminder to whom we should give thanks for all we have. Everything belongs to God for He created everything including your life and all that you possess. It will all come to an understanding sometime in your future if it hasn’t already. May you have a great Thanksgiving Day and enjoy the day with loved ones for life is brief and there is no encore and give thanks where thanks is due. Jesus loves you and so do I.

A Thanksgiving Poem

Thank God for everything!

Help spread thanks to others.

A time of thanks and a time for family and friends.

Never forgot what the Lord has provided unto us.

Knowing we are blessed by our Heavenly Father.

Serve each other with thanksgiving.

Give to one another.

I thank you God for all that you hath done for me.

Visit others and share a time of being thankful.

In everything we do God the thanks.

Now is the time to thank God, do it everyday for all things.

God be given the glory forever and ever. – Amen

Evangelist Jeffrey Battles, Impactnationsglobal.com

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It is with great pleasure to add Evangelist Jeffrey Battles and his organization Impactnationsglobal.com, to my web site. Check my side bar. I pray that everyone that checks out his crusade will pray for souls to receive Jesus as their Savior. As with any Christian organization they can use financial assistance. I thank you and remember Jesus loves you and so do I.

FREE GIFT HAPPY EASTER

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A FREE GIFT                 HAPPY EASTER

Most people like to receive a gift, especially a gift that is free. What is surprising is the gift that God offers is rejected by many. What is more surprising is God’s gift results with many benefits.

Since creation, God has given man a free will. They have the freedom to choose their destiny. Now, suppose I offer you $100.00 because I love you. I tell you it is free, no strings attached. You must make a choice, either accept it or decline to take it. If you accept it, there are many benefits that you can enjoy with that gift.

Again, many believe that to accept God’s gift, it will result in giving up self-pleasures that the world (the devil) offers. I can hear some of you say,” God’s gift is not free.” I beg to differ with anyone who makes that statement. The Bible reference to the gift of God is His Divine Love. Love is the Essence of God. You can receive it from Him if you desire.

With God’s Love comes many benefits called blessings. Have you ever considered what your life would be like if God removed His Love from you? Some examples that the Bible point out is the description of Hell. You can look it up in the following references.  It’ll be beyond anything humanly imaginable! The Bible describes it as, weeping (Matt 8:12), wailing (Matt 13:42), gnashing of teeth (Matt 13:50), darkness (Matt 25:30), flames (Luke 16:24), burning (Isa 33:14), torments (Luke 16:23 everlasting punishment! There are more.

God’s Love is shown in many ways. In all cases, you cannot buy, work for, or obtain it in any way. God’s Love is free by His Grace. God’s Love is free but it came with a cost. The horrible example is the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. The Romans executed criminals on the cross. It is said to be one of the most horrible ways to die. The prelude to Jesus’ death on the cross was the beating He took before. He was beaten almost beyond recognition. He was so weak; He could not carry His cross. Why? Because of God’s Love for every person. ROMANS 5:8 8 But God has made clear his love to us, in that, when we were still sinners, Christ gave his life for us.

What many people think of love is a form of selfishness and not pure love. There are several forms of love. Some examples are as follows:

  • Philia — Affectionate Love. Philia is love without romantic attraction and occurs between friends or family members. …
  • Pragma — Enduring Love. …
  • Storge — Familiar Love. …
  • Eros — Romantic Love. …
  • Ludus — Playful Love. …
  • Mania — Obsessive Love. …
  • Philautia — Self Love. …
  • Agape — Selfless Love.

Agape love gives without waiting for the other person to love first. Agape love comes from God. It is a blessing to those who are born again (1 John 4:7).  For you to love your neighbor (a commandment) it must come from God as agape love does not come naturally.

The love that comes from God is Agape love. It is a selfless love. He proved that by sending Jesus to be a sacrifice for our sins and redeem us. ROMANS 5:8 GWN 8 Christ died for us while we were still sinners. This demonstrates God’s love for us. You need to believe that God loves you. He does because you are valuable and precious and He wants the best for you. After all, He created you and wants you to be a member of His eternal family.

Do you know that love gives? Without giving there is no proof of love. Love always gives, but it does not always give what is requested. Love always gives something.

In the King James Version of the Bible, love is mentioned 310 times

Another free gift of God is His Grace. Again, you cannot earn it, buy it or do anything to obtain it. God’s Grace comes from His essence of His being. God’s grace is gracious, slow to anger, a steadfast love, and His faithfulness. His grace is a favor or gift given to you to bring happiness to your life.

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. Ephesians 2:8-9 ESV

The Bible tells us that when God gave us Jesus Christ, God gave us everything Jesus has. Romans 8:32.  

So, we need to understand that all things that Jesus has, we have inherited, if you have received Jesus as your Savior and Lord. With Jesus, He freely gave us all things. We are joint-heirs, Galatians 4:7 and Romans 8:17.

Now, if you are a born-again believer, which is a spiritual rebirth, you are intitled to the following blessings: healing, prosperity, peace, joy, and all the blessings God has to offer. They are all free. You need to exercise faith to receive. Faith is the key to open what God has to offer.

I know that there are some and even Christians that will argue that salvation is not free. I do not want to cover that type of argument in this post. As of now I am only going to say that someday I pray that you come to understand what the Bible says.

There is one interpreter that reveals the truth as God wants and that is the Holy Spirit.

Since God gave you a free will, you can choose to go your own way and believe your own thing. If you go through life on your own doing the best you can, how is it working out?

You have control of something so precious and more important than anything you can have and that is your life. If things are not working out, have not worked out for you, maybe you should accept the love of Jesus.

Jesus Christ has a perfect track record and knows more about you than you know about yourself. Your eternal future is in His hands. It all depends on where you have put Him in your life.

Doctrine can separate us; the love of Jesus can bring us together.

In this life we will never agree on everything. Unity will only come through one source and that is through Jesus Christ.

This Friday through Sunday the Christian community looks upon what is considered the Gospel of Jesus Christ. His death, burial, and resurrection.

God loves you and so do I.