Category: Truth

“So do not throw away your confidence, it will be richly rewarded.” Hebrews 10:35

One thing that I know for sure is that God knows how to richly reward. Double, triple and more than we can imagine. I don’t know about you but I love to be rewarded by God.

“Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.” Hebrews 12:1-2

We are in a race, not just to run but to win. What we are doing is very important. We can not let things such as sin ruin our effectiveness. It’s a matter of life or death, literally.

“No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who are trained by it.” Hebrews 12:11

Being told what to do just seems wrong, but when you realize it is coming from someone who loves you so very much and that it’s for your good, helps. After a while you see fruit, righteousness and peace are such wonderful feelings. They are a medal worth wearing.

“Yet you have a few people in Sardis who have not soiled their clothes. They will walk with me, dressed in white, for they are worthy. The one who is victorious will, like them, be dressed in white. I will never blot out the name of that person from the book of life, but will acknowledge that name before my Father and his angels.” Revelations 3:4-5

This town had grown complacent and had stopped serving the Lord. I want to stay strong till the end. I don’t want to barely get in the gates. Regretting all I have missed. I may be in heaven but what could I have had here on earth?

“Here I am! I stand at the door and knock if anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with that person, and they with me.” Revelations 3:20

He wants to come in and fellowship, to be a part of our lives. To help us with all our needs and to carry our burdens.

“You are worthy to take the scroll and to open its seals, because you were slain, and with your blood you purchased for God persons from every tribe and language and people and nation. You have made them to be a kingdom and priests to serve our God, and they will reign on the earth.” Revelations 5:9-10

Jesus is the only one who was ever perfect and also human, so he was able to purchase us back from sin and death. He knew that ultimately this was what his Father wanted most. Not just Israel but everyone everywhere. There are no exceptions. Then once we come to him , we serve, then he gives everything to us to reign with him forever.

“For the lamb at the center of the throne will be their shepherd; he will lead them to springs of living water. And God will wipe every tear from their eyes.” Revelation 7:17

That is such a beautiful picture of God making everything right. Everything we have been holding on to and reliving over and over. Causing ourselves more grief than necessary. He will one day make it all ok. Give it to him now.

“They were not allowed to kill them but only to torture them for five months. And the agony they suffered was like that of the sting of a scorpion when it strikes.” Revelation 9:5

The people who are left after the rapture have nothing to look forward to but misery. The wrath of God will finally be released and all things will be made right. People will wish to die but death won’t come. I am so glad I’m apart of the family of God.

“But there is a place where someone has testified: what is mankind that you are mindful of them? You made them a little lower than the angels; you crowned them with glory and honor and put everything under their feet. In putting everything under them, God left nothing that is not subject to them. Yet at present we do not see everything subject to them.” Hebrews 2:6-8

Why does God even bother with us. We are a mess and imperfect. Humans are trouble because of their sin nature. Even Jesus was a man but God gave him complete authority. He has given everything to humans to control, although we have lost control and our world is in a mess because of sin, selfishness and pride. But God still loved us that much.

“Because he himself suffered when he was tempted, he is able to help those who are tempted.” Hebrews 2:18

Jesus knows what we go through. He was tempted just like us, but he stayed strong because he wanted to do what his father wanted. He will show you a way out if you listen.

“Therefore, since the promise of entering his rest still stands, let us be careful that none of you be found to have fallen short of it.” Hebrews 4:1

Rest is so important to finishing our race. God has shown us how important it is. We can get burned out trying to do good. Trials can weigh us down. We need to rest in God physically and spiritually by spending time alone with him.

“For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.” Hebrews 4:12

Every word of the Bible can teach you something if you are open. If you really focus on what God is trying to tell you, he will speak and your attitude will be obvious. Some of the words can strengthen and encourage you, give you peace and hope, and convict you. It is alive.

“But solid food is for the mature, who by constant use have trained themselves to distinguish good from evil.” Hebrews 5:14

The word of God is our food and we need it regularly. Just like our bodies need fuel to survive. If we want to thrive we will eat regularly. Chew slowly.

“God did this so that, by two unchangeable things in which it is impossible for God to lie, we who have fled to take hold of the hope set before us may be greatly encouraged. We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure. It enters the inner sanctuary behind the curtain,”. Hebrews 6:18-19

Jesus is there behind the curtain, it is no longer separating us from God. We can come to God anytime in Jesus name because he is our personal high priest. One of the joys of being his children.

“How much more, then, will the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself unblemished to God, cleanse our consciences from acts that lead to death, so that we may serve the living God.” Hebrews 9:14

Because Jesus willingly died as a sacrifice for us, perfect and spotless. We have been forgiven and our consciences can be free from the burden of sin. How can we serve God with that burden still on us?

“And let us consider how we may spur one another on towards love and good deeds not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another – and all the more as you see the day approaching.” Hebrews 10:24-25

That day is approaching, the signs are all there and we need to be lifting each other up and supporting each other. Now more than ever we need to be drawing others to our savior. They don’t have much time.

“For God did not call us to be impure, but to live a holy life. Therefore, anyone who rejects this instructor does not reject a human being but God, the very God who gives you his Holy Spirit.” 1 Thessalonians 4:7-8

We are to live holy lives, to flee from impurity. If we don’t do this it is like slapping God, the very one who gave us everything. He gave us his beloved son and his Spirit full of power to meet our every need. Who could we owe more to than him?

“For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will be with the Lord forever.” 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17

That glorious and exciting day is coming soon. When we shall see Jesus. Whether we are ready or not. All those who are dead or alive will be gathered to him. To live with him forever.

“Therefore, encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.” 1 Thessalonians 5:11

When I felt I was called to be an encourager, through my writing, I was proud to be called by God. But do you know that we are all called to encourage. Some in different ways but we are supposed to lift each other up.

“May the Lord direct your hearts into God’s love and Christ’s perseverance.” 2 Thessalonians 3:5

Who can love more than God, and who can perservere more than Christ who shed his blood and died for me. They are the very best examples we could ever emulate.

“I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession, and thanksgiving be made for all people- For kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and good lives in godliness and holiness.” 1 Timothy 2:1-2

We should pray for those in authority over us, for those who try to control us and even mistreat us because they need our prayers. Then it will go well for us and we will live in peace. Not to do whatever we want, but to live Godly and holy lives.

“Have nothing to do with godless myths and old wives tales; rather, train yourself to be godly. For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things holding promise for both the present life and the life to come.” 1 Timothy 4:7-8

Discussing things like astrology and speculation of non important issues is not important and often leads to arguments. These things do not lead to godliness or holiness and will amount to nothing in the next life.

“But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it.” 1 Timothy 6:6-7

Having stuff will not make you content. Everything we have is given to us by God and he does give us everything we need. Contentment is an attitude we learn when we lean on God and know we don’t need more unless he gives us more. We need him not what he can give. He is more than enough.

“For the spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.”1 Timothy 1:7

The Holy Spirit brings us so much power, strength, anointing, wisdom and so much more. Fear is not one of them. We are able to control our selfish desires. And do the things he asks us to do.

“He has saved us and called us to a holy life – not because of anything we have done but because of his own purpose and grace.” 2 Timothy 1:9

It is God’s will that we be saved. His plan before time began. Because he loved us so much and he is gracious. We did nothing but listen. He opened our eyes and helped us see the truth. But he does ask us to live a holy life as a Christ follower.

“Join with me in suffering, like a good soldier in Christ Jesus.” 2 Timothy 2:3

We will suffer just as Christ did. This is a fallen world. But be a good soldier and suffer well. Attitude again is so very important.

“Nevertheless, God’s solid foundation stands firm, sealed with this inscription: The Lord knows those who are his and everyone who confesses the name of the Lord must turn away from wickedness.” 2 Timothy 2:19

God knows if I am going to accept him. And he has called me to put all wickedness behind me and move forward in righteousness.

“Follow God’s example, therefore, as dearly loved children.” Ephesians 5:1

We should follow God’s example. God loves everyone he has ever made all the same. He doesn’t have favorites or enemies. He loves all. Everyone was made for a unique purpose. They are all important.

“Be very careful, then, how you live- not as unwise but as wise. Making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil.” Ephesians 5:15-16

Live carefully. Use a conscious effort over everything you do. Be wise. It is very important what we do.

“Always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.” Ephesians 5:20

Are you thankful? Let me tell you a little secret. The more thankful you are, the more content and satisfied you become. It’s going to increase the more thankful you become. I used to complain about things but after making a deliberate effort to thank God more I’m really happy with that outcome.

“Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right.” Ephesians 6:10

God is saying that this is your duty. It doesn’t matter if they deserve to be obeyed or not. Maybe they have been harsh or overbearing. Maybe they haven’t set the best example. They still deserve respect, God says so.

“Therefore, put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand.” Ephesians 6:13

The things God has asked us to do such as prayer, reading his word and meditating on it, fellowshipping with believers, these things are like armor to us. Protecting us. When evil comes, and he says it will, we will be prepared to stand. We won’t crumble.

“I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty, I have learned the secret of being content in whatever the circumstances.” Phillipians 4:12

Focus on what you have, not on what you don’t have. It’s 100% attitude. Gratitude is the best attitude to remain content.

“And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.” Phillipians

God knows our needs. He made us and he will sustain us. If he has to do a miracle to do it, he will. He is far richer than we could ever imagine.

“For in him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities, all things have been created through him and for him.” Colossians 1:16

Everything! Kingdom’s and powers means the Satan and his angels. Heaven and all the angels. We were created for him. To bring him glory.

“But now he has reconciled you by Christ’s physical body through death to present you holy in his sight, without blemish and free from accusations.” Colossians 1:22

Christ’s physical death on the cross was what freed us. God sees us as perfect without blemish. And he has no accusations against us, Zero.

“Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful.” Colossians 4:2

Praying is so very important. Not just when we have a need, but regularly and for all people and all needs. I don’t really even need to worry about my needs. As I pray for others needs mine are already being taken care of. Keep your eyes open for needs around you and thank God in advance.

“The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds.” 2 Corinthians 10:4

The average joe just does not understand the real threats of this world. They are playing what they think is a game they think they can win but they don’t know the rules. So much is at stake. Their actions have such far reaching consequences and there is a very real enemy out there. Not vampires and ware wolves.

“My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” 2 Corinthians 12:9

Can any of us fully understand the amount of grace God has given us? We deserve so much less favor but God loves us, especially when we are so weak. He is so very good, always.

“Finally, brothers and sisters, Rejoice! Strive for full restoration, encourage one another, be of one mind, live in peace. And the God of love and peace be with you.” 2 Corinthians 13:11

We are to be one. One for all. Wanting the best for each other. Doing everything we can to see peace reign.

“Clearly no one who relies on the law is justified before God, because the righteous will live by faith.” Galatians 3:11

The law just shows us how far from God we really are. We can never do anything to save ourselves. We can only believe. And trust that he will save us.

If you belong to Christ, then you are Abraham’s seed, and heirs according to the promise.” Galatians 3:29

Once you believe in Jesus Christ you are Abraham’s offspring just as God promised him. Just as the stars in the sky. I am just only one star out of billions.

“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” Galatians 6:9

Never ever get tired of doing the right thing. Life is so very good when you are walking in Gods will for you. The struggle to do good might be hard but it’s so very worth it.

“But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions-it is by grace you have been saved.” Ephesians 2:4-5

God is good. He loves us so very much. Just by faith he has done what was impossible. The saving of our lives.

“In your anger do not sin. Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry.” Ephesians 4:26

When you get upset and angered you are not to hold onto it. If you still hold that anger when you get ready for bed you are sinning before God. He has forgiven us for ever sin so why can’t we forgive.

“For we who are alive are always being given over to death for Jesus’ sake, so that his life may also be revealed in our mortal body.” 2 Corinthians 4:11

We need to die to our personal desires continually so that we can be more like Jesus. More of him and less of us.

“So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.” 2 Corinthians 4:18

We should not constantly focus on our problems or our lack. That only makes things look worse. We need to focus on the promises of God. We know he is victorious and will always win and overcome. It declares it in his words and they are truth.

“For we know that if the earthly tent that we live in is destroyed, we have a building from God, an eternal house in heaven, not built by human hands.” 2 Corinthians 5:1

People fear death. It is something we all face one day. Why do we fear something we know is going to happen? If my body fails and I die, God has promised me a new body. He has also promised me a mansion in heaven. Built by the very best builder and where there is no more pain or tears.

“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ the new creation has come: the old has gone, the new is here.” 2 Corinthians 5:17

Once we have accepted Christ we receive a fresh start. What we were before is gone. We are now sons and daughters of God. Perfect in his sight. Just as perfect as his own precious son.

“Do not be yoked together with unbelievers. For what do righteousness and wickedness have in common? Or what fellowship can light have with darkness?” 2 Corinthians 6:14

This verse has always been used when looking for a spouse but I believe everyone you spend time with should be someone who will strengthen you. Bad relationships can destroy our character. I know that being a Christian I prefer to be around people who are like myself and have the same qualities I have. I do spend my time around non-Christian’s but I hope what I have rubs off on them.

“I will be a Father to you, and you will be my sons and daughters, says the Lord Almighty.” 2 Corinthians 6:18

God is declaring that we are his children. Do you know a better Father than God? No he is the best, most powerful, most loving, most faithful, most generous and most merciful father ever and he’s my daddy.

“Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret, but worldly sorrow brings death.” 2 Corinthians 7:10

When we know we have done wrong, we need to make it right with God. We change for the better because God helps us change. We are not doing it on our own. The sorrows that this world brings can only break us.

“Remember this: whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, whoever reaps generously will also reap generously.” 2 Corinthians 9:6

Whatever you give out will come back. Not only in giving financially, but in love, in patience, in kindness, and in giving of food, time, clothes and whatever one might need.