When We Eat An Apple

Remember your exalted privilege, you have the Bible in your hands and are not    bound to follow books or preachers any farther than what they teach agrees with the Oracles of Truth. We have great reason to be thankful for the instructions and writings of spiritual men, but they are all fallible, even as ourselves.

One is our master, even Christ; what He says, we are to receive implicitly but we do not owe implicit subjection to the best of our fellow-worms. The Bereans were commended because they would not implicitly believe even the Apostle Paul but examined the Scriptures every day to see if what he said was true. May the Lord give us a spirit of humility and discernment in all things.

When we eat an apple, we first cut out the blemishes, then eat what is good, and lastly throw the core away. Such a rule I would observe in reading human authors the best may be defective, and the wisest may be mistaken. We are not only permitted, but enjoined, to call no man master.

[John Newton]

 ©2017 R.L.N.

1 Thessalonians 5:21 ... Prove all things; hold fast that which is good.

Acts 17:11 ... These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so. ❤

Listening ...

When you are tired of all of the evil happening in the world and you're just waiting for the trumpet to sound … 

Matthew 25:13 ...  Watch therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the hour wherein the Son of man cometh.

1 Thessalonians 5:6 ... Therefore let us not sleep, as do others; but let us watch and be sober.

Luke 12:37 ... Blessed are those servants, whom the lord when he cometh shall find watching: verily I say unto you, that he shall gird himself, and make them to sit down to meat, and will come forth and serve them. ❤

Getting Even?

"I'll get even with that fellow if it takes ten years!" Thus declared a man about another who had wronged him, as his eyes flashed with anger and his teeth set firmly with resolve. In his heart he determined to do his enemy as great an injury as his enemy had done him. "Get even," I thought; "what does it mean to get even?" Then appeared before my mind's eye, a view of the various classes of humanity, each person in the scale of morality where his life had placed him. 

I saw the Christian on God's plane of holiness and truth. Far below him stood the moral though unchristian man. And down, down, step by step, my mental eye beheld man to the lowest depth of moral degradation. Vile and wrong deeds always degrade man to a lower state. Every evil deed, word, or thought lowers us in moral being. If someone has done evil toward us, he has lowered himself by that act; and for us to decide to "get even" by a similar act toward him is for us to decide that we will lower ourselves to his level. To "get even" means to get on the same level. It means to a base and degrade us. If we "get even," we are as bad as he, and worthy that others look upon us with the same feelings with which we regard him. 

If you want to get even with anyone, do not choose someone below you but someone above you in moral attainments, and labor to attain to his height, instead of the other's depths. This will ennoble you, make you better, and be worthy of a rational being. The principle of revenge has no part in Christianity. God refuses to let us avenge ourselves, no matter what the provocation nor how good the opportunity for vengeance. He says, "Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everybody. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. Do not take revenge, my friends, but leave room for God's wrath, for it is written: "It is mine to avenge; I will repay," says the Lord. On the contrary: "If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head." Do not be overcome by evil but overcome evil with good." (Romans 12:17-21). "Make sure that nobody pays back wrong for wrong but always try to be kind to each other and to everyone else." (1 Thessalonians 5:15)

When one who is a Christian so far forgets what is right that he stoops to take vengeance he is then upon the level of the sinner who did him evil, and is himself a sinner, and is fallen from his high position to the level of sin! God forbids us to threaten to "get even" with anyone. "Say not, I will do so to him as he has done to me, I will render to the man according to his work" (Proverbs 24:29). The spirit of Christianity is to render good for evil, blessing for cursing, and love for hatred. The blood of Christ will wash away the "get even" disposition from us; and until we are thus cleansed, let us not presume to call ourselves by that holy name of Him who "did not retaliate when he was insulted, nor threaten revenge when he suffered. He left his case in the hands of God, who always judges fairly." Good is stronger than evil. Evil used against evil, only begets eviler; but we may "overcome evil with good." 

I once asked a man why he did not become a Christian. He replied that there were so many in his business who were trying to get the financial advantage of him, that he could not do right but must do the same with them or he could not "keep even." But let us see what it really means to be "even." If a man lies about me, and to get even I lie about him then we are even. He is a liar, and I am a liar both on the same plane. He is going to the judgment to give account for his lie, and so am I for mine we are even again. If he does not repent, he will go to Hell for lying; and if I do not repent, I shall go, too. Yes, we may get even but I would rather not be so. If a man tricks me out of ten dollars, to get even I must watch my chance to do likewise to him. If I do not try to trick him to get even, he may have more money in his pocket than I; but if I turn the matter over for settlement to Him who said, "Vengeance is mine I will repay," (Romans 12:19) when the final account is rendered, I shall be ten dollars or more ahead. 

Let us not endeavor to be "even" with our enemies by taking vengeance but let us do right and win them to the gospel by overcoming evil with good. Let us get even by raising others up instead of lowering ourselves to their sinful level. Be a blessing to all. Set a right example. 

[Charles Naylor]

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The Model Church

1 Thessalonians 1:6-10 ... 6 And ye became followers of us, and of the Lord, having received the word in much affliction, with joy of the Holy Ghost. 7 So that ye were ensamples to all that believe in Macedonia and Achaia. 8 For from you sounded out the word of the Lord not only in Macedonia and Achaia, but also in every place your faith to God-ward is spread abroad; so that we need not to speak any thing. 9 For they themselves shew of us what manner of entering in we had unto you, and how ye turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God; 10 And to wait for his Son from heaven, whom he raised from the dead, even Jesus, which delivered us from the wrath to come.

The beauty of this Church did not consist of a gorgeous material building, but of a people who are said to be "In God the Father and in the Lord Jesus Christ" (v. 1). And that they were examples to all believers (v. 7). Note their character. 

I. They were Saved from Wrath. "They were delivered from the wrath to come" (v 10) It should never be forgotten that there is "wrath to come" (Revelation 6:17) Wrath against all ungodliness. Blessed are they whom "God has appointed to obtain salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ." (1 Thessalonians 5:9) Christ our Refuge. "Flee from the wrath to come." 

II. They were Converted to God. "They turned to God from idols" (v. 9). Christ is the atoning sacrifice for the sin of the world, but that fact in itself does not save the world; there must needs be a personal turning to God from sin and unbelief. The idols of the unconverted are numerous and varied. To turn to God is to forsake everything that would divide our affections or hinder our whole-hearted trust. 

III. They were Receivers of the Word of God. "They received the Word in much affliction" (v. 6) These were troublous times, as we learn from Acts 17; but the antagonism of the worldly-minded did not hinder them from boldly receiving the Word. It is always a sign of a healthy soul or Church, which gladly drinks in the truth as revealed in God's Word Human philosophies may have their place, but they are the food to build up a model Church. Quickened spirits need the "Word of Life." 

IV. They were Devoted to the Service of God. "They turned from idols to serve the living and true God" (v. 9). What a change! Serving the Living God, instead of dead things that only mocked their needs with a silent indifference. "To whom, O Lord, can we go but unto You?" You are worthy of the service of every power and passion, every thought and feeling of the soul, which You have redeemed by Your Blood. "Serve the Lord with gladness." 

V. They were Looking for the Son of God. They had made up their minds to serve, and "to wait for His Son from Heaven" (v. 10). They believed Christ would come again, as all the early Christians did, and as He Himself had promised This was called "that blessed hope." (Titus 2:13) The prophets of old looked and waited for the Coming of the Messiah long ages before He came; but in the fullness of the time, He did come. The Church may have waited long, so long that many have lost the vision and the hope. But in the fullness of the time He will Come as He said.  (John 14:3; Acts 1:11; 1 Thessalonians 4:16; Revelation 1:7) 

VI. They were Joyful in the Spirit of God. They had the "joy of the Holy Spirit" (v. 6). With the Word of God in their hearts, and this glorious prospect before their eyes, and the power of the Spirit resting on them, their service was not a burdensome task, but a happy privilege and a growing delight. This was characteristic of the first Church members. "They were filled with joy, and with the Holy Spirit." (Acts 13:52) "How are the mighty fallen?" 

VII. They were Examples to Others. "You were examples to all that believe" (v. 7). This was certainly a prosperous Church, although there is nothing said regarding their financial position, no reference to their "Annual Balance Sheet." But their faith in God was known everywhere (v. 8), and the influence of their missionary enthusiasm, in sounding forth the Word of God, had been felt throughout Macedonia and Greece. They honored Christ as the Head of the Church, and they were honored by Him in doing things worthy of His great Name. 

This is what the Church of Christ should do. This is what every Church true to the Word of God is; and this is what every Christian should be an encouraging example to others. "Believe, and you shall see." 

[James Smith]

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Comforting Words ~ 1 Thessalonians 4:18!!

There is much food for thought in these verses, closing with this exhortation: "Wherefore, comfort one another with these words" (v 18). There is comfort here concerning:

I. The Second Advent. "The Lord Himself shall descend from Heaven" (v. 16) The Lord does not promise to send death, or any other messenger, to take His Bride home. He is coming Himself for her. It is "this same Jesus, which was taken up into Heaven, that is coming in like manner as He was seen to go" (Acts 1:11); and "they shall see the Son of Man coming in the clouds of Heaven with power and great glory" (Matthew 24:30). What a comforting hope this is in these "perilous times." 

II. Our Departed Friends. We are not to be in ignorance about them, nor to be in sorrow for them, for we believe that Jesus rose again, and that when He comes He will bring them with Him (vv. 13, 14), for in spirit they are with Him now (2 Corinthians 5:8) It is the "dead in Christ" who will rise first (v. 16). This rising means the putting on of the incorruptible body, being changed into His resurrection image. They shall lose nothing by being put to sleep before the Coming of the Lord (1 Corinthians 15:52). For we who are alive at the Coming of the Lord shall have no precedence over those who have gone to sleep (v. 15). Comforting words indeed. 

III. The Living Saints. "Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them to meet the Lord in the air" (v 17). We are assured, as God's people, that all shall not die before He Comes. "We shall not all sleep (die), but we shall all be changed in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the sound of His last trumpet" (1 Corinthians 1 51, 52). When all in every age who have been put to sleep in Jesus have been raised and clothed with immortality, and when all the believers who are alive on the earth, when He comes, are changed in a moment and caught up together with them. What a host of ransomed souls. "A multitude whom no man can number" Tell me, will any man say on that day that the Church of God has been a failure? "He shall see of the travail of His soul and shall be satisfied." "Comfort one another with these words" (v. 18). 

IV. The Place of Reunion. "Caught up in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air" (v. 17). The air is spoken of as the sphere of Satan's stronghold. He is called "the prince of the power of the air, the spirits that are now at work in the hearts of the sons of disobedience" (Ephesians 2:2). Does it mean that the transfiguration and reunion of all Christ's redeemed ones will take place right in the heart of Satan's territory? What a triumph this would be for "The Lamb that was slain," and for all those who all their lives were warring against the prince of darkness? And what a shameful defeat for the Devil. "I saw Satan fall like lightning from Heaven" (Luke 10:18). V. Our Final Position. "And so shall we ever be with the Lord" (v. 17). Saved by Him. Made like Him. Then forever with Him. 

He has gone to prepare a place for His Church in the coming Kingdom. He will come again and receive it unto "Himself, that where He is, there shall the bride be also (John 14:3). Then the Bridegroom's prayer will be gloriously answered. "Father, I will that they also whom You have given Me be with Me where I am; that They may behold My glory" (John 17:24); and be "forever with the Lord." Earth's greatest blessing is to find Him. Heaven's greatest honor is to be forever with Him. This honor has all the saints. 

"Comfort one another with these words." 

[James Smith]

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"Will of God"

There is the permissive will of God and the perfect will of God. Know the difference between the two and try to walk in the latter. 

[Christopher Gregory]

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1 Thessalonians 4:3-4 ... For this is the will of God, even your sanctification, that ye should abstain from fornication: That every one of you should know how to possess his vessel in sanctification and honour;

Romans 12:2 ... And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.

Ephesians 6:5-6 ... Servants, be obedient to them that are your masters according to the flesh, with fear and trembling, in singleness of your heart, as unto Christ; Not with eyeservice, as menpleasers; but as the servants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart;

1 Thessalonians 5:18 ... In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.

1 Peter 2:15-16 ... For so is the will of God, that with well doing ye may put to silence the ignorance of foolish men: As free, and not using your liberty for a cloke of maliciousness, but as the servants of God. 

Micah 6:8 ... He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the Lord require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God? ❤

"The Bible"

The Bible contains the mind of God, the state of man, the way of salvation, the doom of sinners, and the happiness of believers. 

Its doctrines are holy, its precepts are binding, its stories are true, and its decisions are immutable. Read it to be wise, believe it to be safe, and practice it to be holy. 

It contains light to direct you, food to support you, and comfort to cheer you. It is the traveler's map, the pilgrim's staff, the pilot's compass, the soldier's sword, and the Christian's charter. 

Here, Paradise is restored, Heaven opened, and the gates of Hell disclosed. Christ is its grand subject, our good the design, and the glory of God its end. It should fill the memory, rule the heart, and guide the feet. 

Read it slowly, frequently, and prayerfully. It is a mine of wealth, health to the soul, and a river of pleasure! It involves the highest responsibility, will reward the greatest labor, and will condemn all who trifle with its sacred contents! 

[Author Unknown]

Psalm 119:89 ... For ever, O Lord, thy word is settled in heaven.

2 Timothy 3:16-17 ...  All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:  That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.

1 Thessalonians 2:13 ... For this cause also thank we God without ceasing, because, when ye received the word of God which ye heard of us, ye received it not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God, which effectually worketh also in you that believe. ❤

Prove It!!

It is related that the famous French artist Gustave Dore was once wandering in the mountains of Switzerland, when some officials met him and demanded his passport. "I do not have it with me," he replied, "but my name is Gustave Dore." "Prove it, if you are," replied the officers, knowing who Dore was but not believing that this was he. Taking a piece of paper, the artist hastily sketched a group of peasants who were standing near and did it with such grace and skill that the officials exclaimed, "Enough, you are Dore!" 

In the same way, the world cares little for a mere profession. We say we are Christians, and the challenge is, "Prove it!" If we are of Christ, then we must do the works of Christ, live the life of Christ, and show the spirit of Christ. The artist's skillful drawing proved his identity. Just so, we must prove that we are the followers of our Master by the love, the grace, the beauty, the holiness of our life. Religion is not merely a matter of creed and profession, or of church-going and public worship; it is far more a matter of daily life. It is not how we behave on Sundays, nor the kind of creed we hold, nor the devoutness of our worship it is the way we act at home, in school, in business, in society, in our associations with others. 

It is vitally important that all who profess Christ shall manifest Christ's beauty in their life and character. It is not enough to preach the gospel in words alone; others must also read it in our daily life.

[J.R. Miller]

 1 Thessalonians 4:12 ... That ye may walk honestly toward them that are without, and that ye may have lack of nothing. 

 1 John 2:6 ... He that saith he abideth in him ought himself also so to walk, even as he walked.

Colossians 2:6 ... As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in him:❤

Encourage One Another!

One day, we will close our eyes to time and open our eyes to eternity. Keep looking up!

2 Corinthians 4:18 ... While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal. ❤

Words To Live By ...

Look around you ><> Don’t ever forget how blessed you are. When we forget, we can become ungrateful, doubtful and surprisingly complacent. Being able to appreciate what GOD has already done will set your table of faith for what surely is to come. It will set the table for the peace and joy of the LORD in your life. It will set the table for a heart full of praise and a mind set on JESUS. 

1 Thessalonians 5:18, Whatever happens, always be thankful. This is how GOD wants you to live in CHRIST JESUS. Bottom line is, there are a lot of people who are a lot worse off than you or I materially and physically. If you look at from that prospective, we really have nothing to complain about. Have a great day and don’t miss a chance to tell somebody about JESUS. GOD Bless & Good Health!! 

[Chaplain Dave Baker - Cowboys For Christ]

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Pray!!!

It's okay to pray. 

 Pray out loud.

 

Pray in a whisper. 

Pray on your knees. 

Pray in the car. 

Pray in the shower. 

 Pray in public.

 Pray in private. 

 Just PRAY.

1 Thessalonians 5:17 ... Pray without ceasing.

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The Absolute Necessity of Experimental Religion!

The religion of the Lord Jesus is valuable only as its power is experienced in the heart. In this respect, and in this only, it may be compared to the physical sciences, which, however ingenious in structure, or beautiful in theory yet, if not reduced or reducible to purposes of practical use, are of little worth. 

It is so with the truth of Jesus. The man of mere taste may applaud its external beauty, the philosopher may admire its ethics, the orator may admire its eloquence, and the poet may admire its sublimity but if the Spirit of God does not take His own truth, and impress it upon the heart, as to the great design of its revelation it avails nothing! 

What numbers there are who rest in the mere 'theory' of Christianity! But as a practical principle they know nothing of it. As a thing experienced in the heart it is a hidden mystery to them. They speak well of Christianity as a religious system; they believe its Divinity, and even defend its doctrines and extol its precepts yet make no approaches towards a personal and practical obedience to its claims. 

In a word, they know nothing of repentance towards God, and faith towards our Lord Jesus Christ. It will surely appear to a spiritually enlightened mind, a subject of vast and solemn importance that this delusion should be exposed that this foundation of sand should be undermined; and that the absolute necessity of experimental religion, as necessary to an admission within the kingdom of glory, be strenuously and scripturally enforced! 

[Octavius Winslow] 

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2 Thessalonians 2:10 ...  And with all deceivableness of unrighteousness in them that perish; because they received not the love of the truth, that they might be saved.

 1 Thessalonians 1:5 ... For our gospel came not unto you in word only, but also in power, and in the Holy Ghost, and in much assurance; as ye know what manner of men we were among you for your sake. ❤

Have You Prayed Today?

Ever since you rose from your bed this morning, there has been an eye upon you. Wherever you have been and whatever you have been doing that eye has seen you. It has gone with you to your work; it has seen you with your companions; it has been on you when you were alone. It has seen not merely all that you have done, but why you did it. Your thoughts, your feelings, your motives, which even your nearest friend has not fully known have all been open to that eye of which I speak. For it is an all-seeing eye, the eye of God!

Have you thought of Him whose eye has been upon you? Have you given so much as one thought to Him, since the day began? Have you spoken to Him? Have you prayed to Him?

It is a duty to pray, for God has commanded you to pray.

"Pray to your Father who is in the secret place." (Matthew 6:6) 

"Watch and pray." (Matthew 26:41) 

"Pray without ceasing." (1 Thessalonians 5:17)

"In everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known unto God." (Philippians 4:6) 

It is wrong therefore not to pray.

You have need to pray, great need, for you are dependent upon God for everything. You are entirely in His hand.

If you went to your work this morning strong and well it was only because God made you so and kept you so.

If you have had enough to eat today, if you are clothed comfortably and have a home to live in it is only because God supplies your needs. You would have nothing if God did not supply you.

You live only because He gives you life. He could take all your comforts from you if it pleased Him. He could lay you on a bed of sickness this very day. He could in a moment, strike you dead!

But you have need to pray also, because you are a sinner. Whether you feel it or not you are one. You have offended God. You have done what He told you not to do you have gone against His will, and that more times than can be numbered. And therefore, you need His forgiveness.

Yes, more than anything else, more than food and clothing, and health and strength more than all, you need God's forgiveness.

Will He forgive you? Yes, if you ask Him aright, pleading the merits of Christ your Savior. Then He will forgive you for every wrong thing you have ever done for every evil word you have ever said for every wicked thought that has ever been in your heart. He is quite ready to forgive you. For Christ died to save sinners His precious blood was shed to wash away their sins! You are a sinner, and you have to pray that your sins may be forgiven for His sake, and that you may be saved through Him; and God will hear that prayer. He will forgive you for Christ's sake.

But you need more still. What kind of a heart have you? People talk sometimes of "a good heart." "So-and-so," they say, "is a good-hearted man." I believe they mean a man of a kind heart, not ill-tempered, or malicious, as some are. But they would have to look far indeed before they found one who was really a "good-hearted" man for there is no such man. Our hearts are naturally not good but evil.

Have you not often done wrong? You know that you have! Well, what was it that led you to do wrong? Was it not your heart? And if your heart has led you to do wrong, can it be a good heart? You need a new heart. You need the Holy Spirit of God to change your heart, to lead you to think and feel and wish a right to dwell within you, inclining you always to what is good.

But when I speak of what you need and what you should therefore pray for I hardly know where to stop.

You need peace of mind.

You need comfort in times of trouble.

You need guidance in difficulty.

You need wisdom, help, and strength.

Perhaps all may be summed up in this you need God for your Father and Friend, your reconciled Father in Christ Jesus. If that blessing were yours then all would be yours.

God hears prayer yes, all prayer that is made to Him through Jesus Christ. We do not spend our words for nothing, when we pray. As unworthy as we are yet God promises to hear us when we pray in the name of His dear Son. The Lord Jesus is our Mediator and Advocate He pleads our cause and makes our poor prayers acceptable to God.

Now, with God's command that you should pray, and with so many needs daily needs, needs which none but He can supply, and with His promise to hear you for Christ's sake have you asked Him for anything today? Have you prayed?

You ought to have prayed. Before you entered upon the work and bustle of the day you ought to have gone on your knees. If you did not do so, then pray now. Perhaps at this moment you cannot kneel, but at least you can pray with your heart. Pray standing; pray sitting; pray walking; pray working; pray in any manner rather than not pray at all. Let no more of the day pass without prayer; too much of it has passed so already. Lift up your heart now and say to God, "God be merciful to me, a sinner! Forgive me for not praying. Forgive me for all my sins. Blot them out in my Savior's precious blood. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit. Give me a new heart. Teach me to pray. Watch over me this day; keep me from evil; keep me from sin. Bless me in my body and bless me in my soul. Make me Your own forever and be my Father in Christ Jesus. O God, hear me for Your dear Son's sake!"

[Francis Bourdillon]

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🛑 A Christian Who Warns ...

A Christian who warns is so misunderstood.

A Christian who tells hard truths is often isolated and doesn’t have folks giving them accolades or telling them they are amazing people. They are oftentimes met with silence from the world and even fellow Christians. Although they are strong in their faith and don’t require those things because they are doing their best to walk in obedience and faithfulness to God, it is a hard journey. 

What people don’t see is that many of those “hard truths” are things that God has dealt with them in their own lives about that they have also faced painful truths that they have had to surrender to. That they are preaching to themselves many times. What people don’t see is the burden of souls that weighs heavily on their hearts and minds, and the tears that are wept for those they see in the cross hairs of the devil’s traps. They don’t see how that Christian mourns the state of the Church, which they dearly love. 

How every day the thought of souls going to an eternal hell fills them with pain and dread. Sleepless nights, waking many times with the urge to pray sometimes over someone specific, sometimes over all of it in general. What most people see as hateful, judging words of intolerance is actually a soldier of the cross who is seeing the thick dark blanket of evil being drawn over their beloved family, their beloved church, their beloved country, and the whole world without so much as an objection from most. 

It’s like seeing those you love on a railroad track with a train racing down the track, blaring its horn towards them, and you are the only one who seems to see it. You are desperately waving your arms, screaming, even trying to physically push them off the track with tears rolling down your face, and all they do is ignore you, scoff at you. When you say you want to love people like Christ loves them, this is what that love looks like. 

For the Christian who warns and who tells hard truths, keep yelling, keep weeping over them, keep waving your arms. Continue to let the Holy Spirit lead and guide you. Don’t give up no matter how hard it gets! If just one steps out of the way of that oncoming train, it will all be worth it.

[Author Unknown]

Ezekial 33:2-3 ... Son of man, speak to the children of thy people, and say unto them, When I bring the sword upon a land, if the people of the land take a man of their coasts, and set him for their watchman: If when he seeth the sword come upon the land, he blow the trumpet, and warn the people;

Isaiah 21:6 ... For thus hath the Lord said unto me, Go, set a watchman, let him declare what he seeth.

1 Thessalonians 5:14 ...  Now we exhort you, brethren, warn them that are unruly, comfort the feebleminded, support the weak, be patient toward all men.

Colossians 1:28 ... Whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus: 🛑

Eat!!

Two learned doctors were angrily disputing the nature of food and allowing their meal to lie untasted; while nearby, a simple farmer was eating heartily of that which was set before him. 

Just so, the religious world is full of quibblers, critics, and debaters, who, like the doctors, argue over religious controversies, without profit either to themselves or others. Those are far happier, who imitate the farmer and feed upon the Word of God, which is the true food of the soul. Questioning with honesty and candor is not to be condemned, when the object is to "prove all things, and hold fast that which is good." (1 Thessalonian 5:21)

But to treat Scripture as if it were a football to be kicked from man to man, is irreverence, if not worse! Study the Word of God; lay hold upon it and spend your time in feasting upon precious truth! 

Reader, argue, if you please but remember that communion with the Lord Jesus gives infinitely more enjoyment than disputing can ever afford you. Eat, don't argue! 

[Charles Spurgeon]

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Jeremiah 15:16 ... Thy words were found, and I did eat them; and thy word was unto me the joy and rejoicing of mine heart: for I am called by thy name, O Lord God of hosts.

1 Peter 2:2-3 ...  As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby: If so be ye have tasted that the Lord is gracious.

Matthew 4:4 ...  But he answered and said, It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God. ❤

Getting Even!!

"I'll get even with that fellow if it takes ten years!" Thus declared a man about another who had wronged him, as his eyes flashed with anger and his teeth set firmly with resolve. In his heart he determined to do his enemy as great an injury as his enemy had done him. "Get even," I thought; "what does it mean to get even?" Then appeared before my mind's eye, a view of the various classes of humanity, each person in the scale of morality where his life had placed him. I saw the Christian on God's plane of holiness and truth. Far below him stood the moral though unchristian man. And down, down, step by step, my mental eye beheld man to the lowest depth of moral degradation. 

Vile and wrong deeds always degrade man to a lower state. Every evil deed, word, or thought lowers us in moral being. If someone has done evil toward us, he has lowered himself by that act; and for us to decide to "get even" by a similar act toward him is for us to decide that we will lower ourselves to his level. To "get even" means to get on the same level. It means to abase and degrade ourselves. If we "get even," we are as bad as he, and worthy that others look upon us with the same feelings with which we regard him. 

If you want to get even with anyone, do not choose someone below you but someone above you in moral attainments, and labor to attain to his height, instead of the other's depths. This will ennoble you, make you better, and be worthy of a rational being. The principle of revenge has no part in Christianity. God refuses to let us avenge ourselves, no matter what the provocation nor how good the opportunity for vengeance. He says, "Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everybody. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. Do not take revenge, my friends, but leave room for God's wrath, for it is written: "It is mine to avenge; I will repay," says the Lord. On the contrary: "If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head." Do not be overcome by evil but overcome evil with good." (Romans 12:17-21) 

"Make sure that nobody pays back wrong for wrong, but always try to be kind to each other and to everyone else." (1 Thessalonians 5:15) When one who is a Christian so far forgets what is right that he stoops to take vengeance he is then upon the level of the sinner who did him evil, and is himself a sinner, and is fallen from his high position to the level of sin! God forbids us to threaten to "get even" with anyone. "Say not, I will do so to him as he has done to me, I will render to the man according to his work." (Proverbs 24:29) 

 The spirit of Christianity is to render good for evil, blessing for cursing, and love for hatred. The blood of Christ will wash away the "get even" disposition from us; and until we are thus cleansed, let us not presume to call ourselves by that holy name of Him who "did not retaliate when he was insulted, nor threaten revenge when he suffered. He left his case in the hands of God, who always judges fairly." Good is stronger than evil. Evil used against evil, only begets more evil; but we may "overcome evil with good." (Romans 12:21)

 I once asked a man why he did not become a Christian. He replied that there were so many in his business who were trying to get the financial advantage of him, that he could not do right but must do the same with them or he could not "keep even." But let us see what it really means to be "even." If a man lies about me, and to get even I lie about him then we are even. He is a liar, and I am a liar both on the same plane. He is going to the judgment to give account for his lie, and so am I for mine — we are even again. If he does not repent, he will go to Hell for lying; and if I do not repent, I shall go, too. 

Yes, we may get even but I would rather not be so. If a man tricks me out of ten dollars, to get even I must watch my chance to do likewise to him. If I do not try to trick him to get even, he may have more money in his pocket than I; but if I turn the matter over for settlement to Him who said, "Vengeance is mine I will repay," (Romans 12:19) when the final account is rendered, I shall be ten dollars or more ahead. Let us not endeavor to be "even" with our enemies by taking vengeance but let us do right and win them to the gospel by overcoming evil with good. Let us get even by raising others up instead of lowering ourselves to their sinful level. Be a blessing to all. Set a right example. 

[Charles Naylor]

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The Joy of Our Soul.

Christ became to us the Joy of Our Souls. Home, friends, health, wealth, comforts all lost their 'luster' that day when He saved us, just as stars are hidden by the light of the sun. 

 [Charles H. Spurgeon]

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Nehemiah 8:10 ... Then he said unto them, Go your way, eat the fat, and drink the sweet, and send portions unto them for whom nothing is prepared: for this day is holy unto our Lord: neither be ye sorry; for the joy of the Lord is your strength.

Isaiah 61:3 ... To appoint unto them that mourn in Zion, to give unto them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; that they might be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the Lord, that he might be glorified.

1 Thessalonians 1:6 ... And ye became followers of us, and of the Lord, having received the word in much affliction, with joy of the Holy Ghost. ❤

Where is My Mamma?

What makes Heaven attractive for us? It won't be the pearly gates! It won't be the streets paved with transparent gold! These would not satisfy us! If these were all we would not want to stay in Heaven forever. 

I heard the other day; of a little girl whose mother was very sick. While she was sick, one of the neighbors took the child away to stay with her, until the mother would be well again. But instead of getting better the mother died! They thought it best, that they should not tell the child nor take her home, until the funeral was all over. 

So, a while afterward, they brought the little girl home. First, she went into the sitting-room to find her mother; then she went into the parlor; and then she went from one end of the house to the other and could not find her mother. At last, she said, "Where is my mamma?" And when they told her that her mamma had died, the little girl wanted to go back to the neighbor's house again. Home had lost its attractions to her since her mother was no longer there!

Just so it is not the streets of gold and the pearly gates that are going to make Heaven attractive. It is the being with Jesus, our beloved Redeemer! 

[D. L. Moody] 

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John 14:3 ... And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.

Philippians 1:23 ...  For I am in a strait betwixt two, having a desire to depart, and to be with Christ; which is far better:

1 Thessalonians 4:17 ... Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord. ❤

You Are Not!!

You are not too lost for God to find you.

You are not too dirty for God to clean you.

You are not too broken for God to fix you.

You are not too hurt for God to heal you.

You are not too far for God to reach you.

You are not too guilty for God to forgive you.

You are not too sinful for God to save you.

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Hebrews 7:25 ... Wherefore he is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by him, seeing he ever liveth to make intercession for them.

Philippians 2:13 ... For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure.

1 Thessalonians 5:24 ... Faithful is he that calleth you, who also will do it. ❤

Abominations of Modern Society

If you would lead a pure life, have nothing to do with bad books and impure newspapers. With such immoral literature as is coming forth from our swift-revolving printing-presses, there is no excuse for dragging oneself through sewers of unchastity. 

Never read a bad book! By the time you get through the first chapter, you will see the drift of it. If you find the hoof-prints of the devil in the pictures, or in the style, or in the plot away with it! You may tear your coat or break a vase and repair them again. But it takes less than an hour to do your soul a damage which no time can entirely repair! 

Look carefully over your child's library; see what book he reads after he has gone to bed, with the light turned down. Young man, as you value Heaven, never buy a book from one of those men who meet you in the square, and, after looking both ways to see if the police are watching, shows you a book, "very cheap!" Have him arrested, as you would kill a rattlesnake! Grab him, and shout, "Police! police!" 

But there is more danger, I think, from many of the family newspapers. Some of them contain stories of vice and shame, full of evil suggestions and go as far as they can without exposing themselves to the clutch of the law. On some tables in Christian homes, there lie "family newspapers" which are the very vomit of the pit of Hell! The way to ruin is cheap! It costs three dollars to go to Philadelphia; six dollars to Boston; thirty-three dollars to Savannah. But, by the purchase of a bad paper for ten cents you may get a ticket straight to Hell, by express, with few stopping-places!  And the final stop is like the tumbling of the train over a bridge sudden, dreadful, deathly, never to rise! 

O, the power of an iniquitous pen! If a needle punctures the body at a certain point, life is destroyed. But the pen is a sharper instrument, for with its puncture you may kill your soul! Do not think that that book which you find fascinating and entertaining, is therefore healthful. Some of the worst poisons are pleasant to the taste. The pen which for the time fascinates you may have been dipped in the slime of impure hearts! 

 [T. De Witt Talmage]

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Habakkuk 1:13 ... Thou art of purer eyes than to behold evil, and canst not look on iniquity: wherefore lookest thou upon them that deal treacherously, and holdest thy tongue when the wicked devoureth the man that is more righteous than he?

1 Thessalonians 5:22 ... Abstain from all appearance of evil.

James 4:7 ... Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. ❤