BLESSING FOR YOU FOR 2025

 BLESSING FOR YOU FOR 2025

NUMBERS 6:  24 -26

24) The LORD bless thee, and keep thee:

25) The LORD make His face shine upon thee, and be gracious unto thee:

26)  The LORD lift up His countenance upon thee, and give thee peace.  (KJV)

DEUTERONOMY 31:8

8)  And the LORD, He is the One who goes before you.  He will be with you, He will not leave you nor forsake you; do not fear nor be dismayed.

May He go before you to lead the way, may He go behind you to guard you from a sneak attack by the enemy.  

This is my prayer for my loved ones for this year, 2025.

LUKE 15: 11 - 19 THE PRODIGAL SON PART1 OF 3

 THE PRODIGAL SON

PART 1 OF 3

LUKE 15:11-19

Francis Miller The LIFE Picture Collection/Shutterstock

11) And He (Jesus) said, A certain man had two sons:

12) And the younger of them said to his father, Father, give me the portion of goods that falleth to me.  And he divided unto them his living.

13) And not many days after the younger son gathered all together, and took his journey into a far country, and there wasted his substance with riotous living.

14) And when he had spent all, there arose a mighty famine in that land; and he began to be in want.

15) And he went and joined himself to a citizen of that country; and he sent him into his fields to feed swine.

16) And he would fain have filled his belly with the husks that the swine did eat:  and no man gave unto him.

17) And when he came to himself, he said, How many hired servants of my father's have bread enough and to spare, and I perish with hunger!

18) I will arise and go to my father, and will say unto him, Father, I have sinned against heaven, and before thee, 

19) And am no more worthy to be called thy son:  make me as one of thy hired servants.

COMMENTARY

   We have to understand the time, place, and culture of when Jesus was telling this parable:  He was speaking to people who actually believed in The Ten Commandments.  These people did not lightly take God's Name in vain like our society does these days.  These people did not go shopping, go out to eat, go to entertainment events on the Sabbath.  These people actually took God seriously!  So, to show disrespect to your Father was a serious infraction.

  Verses 11, 12:  The man had two sons.  One was a "prodigal", meaning he was self-indulgent, a spendthrift, recklessly wasteful.  When he brazenly asked his father for what would eventually become his inheritance, which was disrespectful not only to his father but to his ancestors who had worked the property before him and his children if/when he married and had sons of his own.  His father was working to eventually leave all he owned to his sons, but he could use their help in the meantime.  The request showed lack of love and gratitude for the hard work of his father and his ancestors.  It was shameful and reprehensible.  Since his brother was the firstborn, this son (the prodigal) would have eventually inherited one third of the estate to raise his family on; his brother would eventually inherit two thirds.

   SHAME.  The son had brought shame to himself AND to his father by his request.  The Fifth Commandment tells us to honor our parents.  This is a COMMANDMENT, initially written in stone by God, Himself!  That's pretty serious stuff!

   Verse 13:  The father obviously gave the son material possessions that could be liquidated.  The property could be sold to someone who is willing to wait to take possession until the father died, which is when the younger son would be able to claim this inheritance.  Of course, the sale of the property would net a much smaller price than it would have had he waited to sell it.

   Verse 14:  We are just not in charge of what happens to us.  Here was The Prodigal, living it up, spending his money like there was no tomorrow; then, as he spends the last of his resources, disaster strikes.  He never gave a second thought of saving for the future.

   Verse 15:  The only job he could find was feeding swine, which no Jew would accept.  The rabbinic writings pronounced a curse on those involved with swine.  Basically, there was no job for the foreigner.

   Verse 16:  Nobody had pity on him; there was no charity.

   Verse 17 - 19:  Finally, hungry and broke, he realized how well he had it at home.  Even the day laborers who worked for his father had it better than he in this foreign land.  It became clearer to him that his father was abundantly merciful and loving.  He felt remorseful and decided to go home.

   As we continue this look into the prodigal son, you will see our relationship with God described here.  Do you have a relationship with God?  Click here to get started:   https://omaswisdom.blogspot.com/p/path-to-salvation.html

If this post is a blessing to you, please pray for us and share this post on your favorite social commentary.

You are encouraged to leave your thoughts in a comment.  We love to hear from you.  If you don't want your comment published, please indicate your wishes when you comment.

ACTS 1: 5

 ACTS 1: 5

WAIT FOR THE PROMISE OF THE FATHER

1) The former treatise have I made, O Theophilus, of all that Jesus began both to do and teach,

2) Until the day in which He was taken up, after that He through the Holy Ghost had given commandments unto the apostles whom He had chosen.

3) To whom also He shewed Himself alive after His passion by many infallible proofs, being seen of them forty days, and speaking of the things pertaining to the Kingdom of God.

4) And, being assembled together with them, commanded them that they should not depart from Jerusalem, but wait for the Promise of The Father, which, saith He, ye have heard of Me. 

5) For John truly baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost not many days hence.

COMMENTARY

   Who is "Theophilus"?  The word "theophilo" means "friend of God".  Theophilus could have been a Gentile Believer, Dr. Luke's attorney, or a number of other people.  The Gospel of Luke covers the earthly ministry.  click here for the introduction to the Gospel of Luke:  https://omaswisdom.blogspot.com/2011/12/lukes-purpose-in-writing-luke-11-4.html

   Jesus was teaching the Apostles and Disciples on Kingdom things, some of which they just did not understand.  They were believing that Jesus would destroy the Romans and set up His Kingship right then but to their dismay,  He was crucified.  We know they did not understand a lot of His teaching, because He kept telling them that He would be killed; but when it happened, they were shocked.

   After He was killed (His Passion), He appeared to the Apostles and continued His teaching and giving commandments to them.  One thing He commanded them was to stay in Jerusalem and wait for the Promise of The Father (The Holy Spirit).  Their faith had to overcome their fear of being slaughtered by the Roman soldiers and/or the Jewish leaders.  After all, they had killed Jesus!  Now, as you meditate on this, what would it take to overcome your fear of being killed?  The answer, of course, is The Gospel!  For when we die, we are ushered into the very presence of Jesus Christ, Himself!  What Glory!  For us, death has no sting.

   Believers are to follow Jesus in baptism with water, which symbolizes our death to sin and our resurrection as "a new man in Christ".  Our lives are no longer our own, but we give ourselves to Jesus, Who gave Himself for us, that we may be with The Father eternally, as it was intended from the beginning.

   And when we accept Jesus as our personal Lord and Savior, we will be baptized with The Holy Ghost.  He indwells us, and teaches us and guides us.  He gives us words to say when we are ignorant.  He is ever with us.

If this post is a blessing to you, please pray for us and share this post on your favorite social commentary.

You are encouraged to leave your thoughts in a comment.  We love to hear from you.  If you don't want your comment published, please indicate your wishes when you comment.

PRAYING FOR HEALING

 PRAYING FOR HEALING

  We are commanded to meditate on Kingdom things:  "Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure , whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things."  Philippians 4: 8  KJV

   That being said, we have been praying for one of our own (our church members).  He is two years old and was attacked by animals.  He suffered massive damage BUT is in the hospital.  The family has been very specific when asking for prayer for his healing:  that the tissue be salvageable, that the nerve endings can be reconnected, etc.  Our prayers have included the specific requests that they have made.

   This morning, while having my coffee, contemplating on what is true, pure, lovely...on Kingdom things, I remembered to Whom I have been praying.  This is The Creator of all things.  He formed this baby wonderfully and fearfully in his mother's womb.  I went to giving Him praise for His answer to our prayers, regardless of what that answer might be (all of the congregation is praying).  

   I believe the Holy Bible as it is written:  Genesis 2: 7 says, "And the LORD God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life;  and man became a living soul."  Do you take this verse at face value?  Do you understand how intricate the human body is?  how many individual systems work together for the whole?  Do you believe He formed the respiratory system, then the muscular system, then the skeletal system. etc. or do you believe He gathered up some dirt and formed it in His image then breathed life into it?

   I don't believe He pieced anything together as some of the commentaries say that I have read say.  I believe as He thinks, so does He.  

   Which brings me to the point of my meditation:  this baby's healing does not require God to fix one issue, then another, then another.  If He chooses, He can simply think or speak and the baby will be healed, whole;  as if the incident never happened, or He can choose something less amazing.  We don't know why God allows Satan to attack us in various ways, but we DO know God loves us, He is in control, and He ALONE deserves our praise.  Amen?

What are your thoughts?  We welcome your feedback, whether you agree with this post or not.  This is simply the way I believe.    If you have not accepted the gift of salvation, please click here https://omaswisdom.blogspot.com/p/path-to-salvation.html.

 

MATTHEW 4: 5 - 7 CAST THYSELF DOWN

 CAST THYSELF DOWN

MATTHEW 4:  5 - 7

5) Then the devil took Him up into the holy city, and sat Him on a pinnacle of the temple,

6) And said unto Him, "If Thou be the Son of God, cast Thyself down:  for it is written, He shall give His angels charge concerning Thee:  and in their hands they shall bear Thee up, lest at any time Thou dash Thy foot against a stone.

7) Jesus said unto him, "It is written again, Thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God."

COMMENTARY

   This is the second time Satan tempted Jesus in the desert after He had fasted forty days and forty nights.  Jesus' human body was weak.  He sat Jesus on a pinnacle of the temple, which some say is around 300 feet in the air and told Him to jump.  He was saying to try to commit suicide and we'll see if the angels actually come to your rescue.

   The devil knew Jesus was the Son of God.  He knew Him from the time God had created all things, including angels.  He was challenging Jesus to demonstrate His power and royal position.  Satan is well versed at quoting scripture but he alters it to suit his purpose.  If you read the entire scripture, you will see the difference:  

Luke 4:  11) For He shall give His angels charge over Thee, TO KEEP THEE IN ALL THY WAYS.

12) They shall bear Thee up in their hands, lest Thou dash Thy foot against a stone.

   Jesus then answers Satan with Holy Scripture from the first part of Deuteronomy 6:  Ye shall not tempt the LORD your God.  

   We are not to willingly put ourselves in harms way.  We are to obey God's teaching.  Here is the rest of chapter 6 of Deuteronomy:  16b as ye tempted Him in Massah.

17) Ye shall DILIGENTLY keep the commandments of the LORD your God, and His testimonies, and His statutes, which He has commanded Thee.

18) And thou shalt DO THAT WHICH IS RIGHT AND GOOD IN THE SIGHT OF THE LORD:  that it may be well with thee, and that thou mayest go in and possess the good land which the LORD swore unto thy fathers.

19) To cast out all thine enemies from before thee, as the LORD has spoken.

20) And when thy son asks thee in time to come, saying, What mean the testimonies, and the statutes, and the judgements, which the LORD our God has commanded you?

21) Then thou shalt say unto thy son, We were Pharaoh's bondmen in Egypt; and the LORD brought us out of Egypt with a mighty hand: 

22) And the LORD showed signs and wonders, great and sore, upon Egypt, upon Pharaoh, and upon all his household, before our eyes:

23) And He brought us out from thence, that He might bring us in, to give us the land which He swore unto our fathers.

24) And the LORD commanded us to DO ALL THESE STATUTES, TO FEAR THE LORD OUR GOD, FOR OUR GOOD ALWAYS, THAT HE MIGHT PRESERVE US ALIVE, AS IT IS AT THIS DAY.

25) And it shall be our righteousness, if we observe to do all these commandments before the Lord our God, as He has commanded us.  King James Version (KJV) Public Domain (language updated by me).

   Understanding that the Old Testament is the law and we live under grace does not negate the law.  There are rules your own family lives by.  Your rules are there to promote harmony and good health, among other things.  It is the same with the law in the Old Testament.  He says it is "for our good always".

   Are you a child of God?  Have you accepted Jesus, His only begotten Son as your personal LORD and Savior?  You cannot imagine the blessings if you have not taken that step.  Click here to learn more:   https://omaswisdom.blogspot.com/p/path-to-salvation.html 

If this ministry is a blessing to you, please pray that God uses our efforts for His Kingdom.  You are encouraged to leave us a message to tell us how we are making a difference in your life.  Please also share this post on your favorite social media.  Thank you so much for allowing us into your life.

THOSE IN POSITIONS OF POWER IN ROME

 THOSE IN POSITIONS OF POWER IN ROME

DURING THE TIME OF JESUS

LUKE 3:  1, 2

   It may be helpful to acquaint ourselves to those in positions of power in Rome during the time of Jesus.  It is good to be able to know a little about the main characters and what motivated them.

1) Now in the fifteenth year of the reign of Tiberius Caesar, Pontius Pilate being governor of Judaea, and Herod being tetrarch of Galilee, and his brother Philip tetrarch of Ituraea and of the region of Tachonitis, and Lysanias the tetrarch of Abilene, 

2) Annas and Caiaphas being the high priests, the word of God came unto John the son of Zacharias in the wilderness.

COMMENTARY

TIBERIUS CAESAR

photo courtesy of Rome.us

   First of all, let me say that Rome was an empire at this time, not just a city.  Tiberius was head of the entire empire; he was the emperor.  

   Tiberius Caesar's parents, Tiberius Claudius Nero (Father) and Livia Drusilla (Mother) divorced when he was four years old.  His mother later married Rome's first emperor, Augustus Caesar.  Augustus adopted Tiberius.  Augustus Caesar didn't want Tiberius to become emperor.  You can read more about him at https://rome.us/roman-emperors/tiberuis.html

PONTIUS PILATE

photo courtesy of Evidence for the Bible

   Pontius Pilate was the governor of the Roman Province of Judaea under the rule of the Emperor Tiberius.

   The Roman Empire was a country, if you will and Judaea was a Province, much like a state.

HEROD, TETRIARCH OF GALILEE

photo courtesy of christianitytoday.com

   The Province of Judaea was then divided into four areas, maybe comparable to counties in the United States.  Herod was the head of the area of Galilee. This is Herod the Great.  His official title was "Client King".  Client kings were considered allies of Rome and were expected to provide troops and resources to the Roman Empire in times of war.  In return, they were allowed to retain their own rule and govern their people.  They were expected to show loyalty and obedience to the Roman Empire.

ANNAS

   Annas was perhaps the most powerful Sadducee in the first century.  He was a descendent of Aaron.  And, like other Sadducees, only recognized the five books of Moses to be authoritative.  The Sadducees believed only in the present and worked to promote themselves and a life of luxury.  They did not believe in the resurrection.  He was appointed by Rome to the position of Chief Priest (head of the Sanhedrin, the Jewish religious governing body).  Nonetheless, the Jewish people considered him to be priest by divine law.

Caiaphas

   Caiaphas was the son in law of Annas and became the Chief Priest when Annas stepped down.   He was head of the Sanhedrin by name only because Annas retained the power.  Like Annas, he was also a Sadducee.

Understand this: there is a resurrection and there will be a rapture. Do you believe? Click here to learn more about how you can join us in the rapture if Jesus doesn't tarry:  https://omaswisdom.blogspot.com/p/path-to-salvation.html.

If this message is a blessing to you,  please share it on your favorite social media.  And as always, you are encouraged to pray for this ministry, that God will be glorified in our efforts.  Thank you.

PSALM 65 SERMON

PSALM 65 SERMON

Pastor posted this and I obtained permission to add it to my ministry blog.  Enjoy 

January 2, 2022

First Baptist Church of New Caney

  · 

It's hard to cancel services but we want to make sure no one gets infected with Covid.

I came across a verse this past week while doing some research that jumped out at me.

Psalm 65:11, "You crown the year with Your goodness; and Your paths drop abundance."

This Psalm begins by stressing that praise awaits the God who hears our prayers. Then the writer calls attention to the truth that though we sin, we have a God who purges our sins and takes them away. Then we read in verse 4...

"Blessed is the person whom You choose and cause to approach You, that they may dwell in Your presence; we shall be satisfied with the goodness of Your house, even of Your holy temple."

The sense is that when God came to His people, He would be received in a spirit of praise. This praise can be pure silence because what the worshiper feels is an overwhelming sense of God's goodness that one's praise has no utterance at first.

Kidner writes, "It may sometimes be the height of worship, in other words, to fall silent before God in awe at His presence and in submission to His will.”

Our ability to approach God is because of God Himself.

He is the connection!

He chose us and granted us the privilege to enter into His presence.

It's there in His presence that believers find true satisfaction. The imagery here is of God being the host and as His guest we are protected, provided for and preserved.

So, as we go through this Psalm, we observe the greatness of our God in our lives and in nature itself. Thus, in verse 11, David highlights the truth that a plentiful harvest was the crown jewel of a productive year because of God's unmerited goodness. In other words, though the ground was cursed because of Adam's sin, God in His mercy can override the curse when His people are walking in harmonious fellowship with Him. And note, God doesn't do things in small proportions but in abundance - "...Your paths drop abundance."

Listen, it doesn't matter what the economic conditions may be. Our Jesus isn't bound by our economy. What He is bound to do is blessing His people abundantly when their soul satisfaction is Him. There's the key to having this New Year crowned with His goodness, to where the paths we walk are full of His abundant blessings. It's when we find in Him our satisfaction and not the things of the world. If we want God's abundant blessings in our lives then we must come to the place that we're drawing ever nearer to Him. The question we have to ask is...

“How do I get that intimate with God to where my soul is fully satisfied?”

It requires daily time in His Word as well as consistent time in prayer. It's about hungering and thirsting after righteousness.

Nothing will change this year to keep it from being like last year unless we decide to take our relationship with Jesus a whole lot more serious than we ever have. Jesus awaits to bless you, but it will take a faith commitment to grow our faith deeper, wider and broader than we ever have if we want His abundance poured into our lives.

Isaiah 43:18-19, "Remember not the former things, nor consider the things of old. Behold, I am doing a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert.”

God has a reason in asking us to remember not the things of the past. Perhaps we have made a mess of our life. Failures, frustrations, sins and sufferings, hurts and offenses have marked our journey. With this heavy burden we cannot move forward. Whatever might have happened, we need to leave it all to the ocean of the mercy of God. We are called to trust Him for He promises us to meet us where we are.

So, let's make a faith commitment in this New Year that Jesus has blessed us with to seek Him with the whole heart like never before. Let's let Him be our satisfaction over everything else and when He is, we'll be able to praise Him even in the storms that may come.

Blessings in this New Year!

Do you have a relationship with Jesus? Click here for more information to receive the greatest blessing of all: salvation:  https://omaswisdom.blogspot.com/p/path-to-salvation.html.

If this message is a blessing to you,  please share it on your favorite social media.  And as always, you are encouraged to pray for this ministry, that God will be glorified in our efforts.  Thank you.

AT WALMART TODAY

 I WAS AT WALMART

AT WALMART TODAY

   I was at WalMart today to return some gifts that I had ordered.  The greeter asked it I had returns and I confirmed that I did.  He asked if he could place a sticker on the package and he directed me to customer service.  I told him that I wanted to pick up a bottle of nail polish before I went to customer service.  He tried to explain about their policy and theft protection, etc.  I explained that I didn't want to stand in the line twice.  The conversation went back and forth for a minute, then, you know me:  it morphed into what we want from God and how to receive it.  I don't remember much about the conversation, since it is second nature for me to steer the conversation to my God.  I do remember we agreed that stomping (and I demonstrated this) and throwing a fit usually results in God either making us wait and adjusting our attitude or just out-right denying our request.  Anyway, that hit a nerve with him, you could see it in his attitude.  We talked a while longer, and I went about my business.

   I bid him goodbye on my way out, when he thanked me for talking with him.  He told me that what I had said went straight to his heart, as it was just what he needed to hear (the answer to a prayer).  WOW  I love this. 

 I exited the store before I realized I hadn't invited him to church, so I went back in and invited him.  He said he attends a different church locally but may come by for a visit.  Once again on my way out the door, I realized he didn't need a church; he needed an answer.  

What about you?  Have you experienced anything like this?  We would love to hear from you.

PSALM 2

PSALM 2

REBELLION

photo courtesy of Wikipedia.org, author:  Carlos8888

   This is a prophetic psalm.  There are four speakers in this Psalm.  King David is the first.  

1) Why do the heathen rage, and the people imagine a vain thing?

   The question is, "why does the godless imagine and meditate on ways to rid themselves of God"?

2) The kings of the earth set themselves, and the rulers take counsel together, against the Lord, and against His anointed, saying,

   Those in position of authority have taken up position against the Lord, all in one accord.

3) Let us break their bands asunder, and cast away their cords from us.

   Every socio-economic class is in full agreement:  They are tired of being told that their way is the way to Hell.  They are tired of anyone telling them what to do and how to act.  "Let's rid ourselves of God."

Now, God speaks:

4) He that sits in the heavens shall laugh:  the Lord shall have them in derision.

   First, His thunderous laughter peals across the world at man's conceit.  Picture here a two year old telling his parents what to do and how to do it!  The child doesn't have the wisdom to tell anyone what to do.  So, these people are laughed at.  

5) Then shall He speak unto them in His wrath, and vex them in His sore displeasure.

   Then He lets the hammer down.  He sends His angels down to torment man.

6) Yet have I set My king upon My holy hill of Zion.

   Jerusalem belongs to God.  It will be trodden by the Gentiles for a little while, but God has the deed to it and He sits His king upon it as He will.

Now, Jesus speaks:

7)  I will declare the decree:  the Lord has said unto me, Thou art My Son; this day have I begotten thee.

   Jesus was God before creation.  Then, He was the Son incarnate, when He was born of a woman.  No matter how much man denies Jesus, He remains God's only begotten Son.

8) Ask of Me and I shall give thee the heathen for thine inheritance, and the uttermost parts of the earth for thy possession.

   Satan offered these things to Jesus, also; but it would have been temporary, since Satan really didn't own creation.  However, God owns it all and He gives it all to Jesus.  Without Jesus, we would have eternally been separated from our loving God.  Do you have a relationship with Jesus?  Click here to make that right:   https://omaswisdom.blogspot.com/p/path-to-salvation.html.

9) Thou shall break them with a rod of iron; thou shall dash them in pieces like a potter's vessel.

   This foretells of the battle of Armageddon.

Now we hear from The Holy Spirit: 

10) Be wise now therefore, O ye kings:  be instructed, ye judges of the earth.

   During this Dispensation of Grace, The Holy Spirit invites us all to accept salvation while there is still time.  God does not want any to perish.

11) Serve the Lord with fear, and rejoice with trembling.

   When you are adopted into God's family, you serve Him with all of the respect due Him.

12) Kiss the Son, lest He be angry, and ye perish from the way, when His wrath is kindled but a little.  Blessed are all they that put their trust in Him.  

   Truly, there is nothing we can do without Jesus.  Amen?  We are so blessed when we realize that and put our total trust in Him.

King James Version (KJV) Public Domain  (with a little modification from me)

DEFINITIONS

derision:  a state of being laughed at or ridiculed (merriam-webster.com)

vex:  to irritate; to make angry by little provocations.  ten thousand torments (King James Version dictionary)

PSALM 1

 PSALM 1

LIKE A TREE PLANTED BY THE RIVERS

photo courtesy of PickPik.com

1) Blessed is the man that walks not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of the scornful.

2) But his delight is in the law of the LORD:  and in His law does he meditate day and night.

3) And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that brings forth his fruit in his season;  his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he does shall prosper.

4) The ungodly are not so:  but are like the chaff which the wind drives away.

5) Therefore the ungodly shall not stand in the judgment, nor sinners in the congregation of the righteous.

6) For the LORD knows the way of the righteous:  but the way of the ungodly shall perish.

King James Version (KJV) Public Domain

COMMENTARY

For the commentary on the Book of Psalms, I am using Exploring Psalms set by John Phillips.  I had to buy another set, since my first set was a casualty of Harvey.  I like expository commentaries.  I also read Tony Evans, which is not expository.  I encourage you to invest in commentaries that I have mentioned in this blog.

It is interesting that the first two Psalms are not assigned a human author.  All during the Old Testament, no one was recognized for them.   However, in the Book of Acts, chapter 4, verse 25, King David was recognized as the author of the second Psalm.  The first one deals with the law, the second is prophetic.

1)  The blessings of this man comes from what he does not do.  Growing up, I always heard that "God is a spoil-sport" because His commands are "Thou shalt not".  However, we are happier when we avoid certain pitfalls in life.  There was a comic posted on social media recently but I didn't understand it.  As it happens, it was laughing about a movie which I never watched, "Brokeback Mountain".  Then, someone tried to explain the post.  I didn't need the post explained, because I try not to have anything to do with things that I know God disapproves of.  I don't need to intentionally put things in my path that might cause me to stumble.  I didn't read Harry Potter.  I don't try to erase something from my memory that I should have never exposed myself to in the first place.  So, I am blessed by not                        .

   The blessed man does not associate with the ungodly man.  He doesn't take counsel from him, choose him in his circle of friends, nor get cozy with him.  The man with all of the blessings is one who knows Truth, so if anyone does not have Truth, happy is he who avoids them.

   By the way, the word "Blessed" here, is exceedingly expressive; meaning that this is not a singular blessing, but blessing on top of blessing, on top of blessing!  This man is truly blessed!

2)  The blessed man stays in God's Word, reading it, meditating on it, practicing it, knowing it.  His counsel is so much better than the counsel of the ungodly.

3) The Godly man is prosperous.  When a tree is planted by a water source, it is sustained.  It's roots are deep and wide, making it virtually impossible to knock it over.  The blessed man produces quality fruit in season.  His leaves receives enough water (not too little, not too much)  to keep him healthy....he does not wither. He is a blessing to others.  I don't think I know anyone who truly believes on God and studies His Word and is selfish.  Look for the fruit.

4) We have all seen the destruction that hurricanes do to boats.  They are tossed about in the water and some even get airborne from the powerful winds.  This is a picture of the ungodly man's life in the hands of Satan, in whom he does not believe.  But Satan is "the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience".  Ephesians 2:2  The ungodly man believes he is the master of his own destiny but has given power to Satan.

5) The ungodly will be judged in the Great White Throne Judgment.  This will not be a trial, but a sentencing event, where they will be sentenced for an eternity away from the presence of God; where there "will be weeping and gnashing of teeth".  Luke 13: 28

6) And the ungodly will perish.  period.

What about you?  Don't you want to be planted like a tree by Living Water?  My Friend, today is the day to make that decision.  We are not promised tomorrow.  Choose Life today!   click here to find out how:  https://omaswisdom.blogspot.com/p/path-to-salvation.html.

If this ministry is a blessing to you, please pray for us, that The LORD uses our efforts for His glory.  You are also encouraged to share this post on your favorite social media and help us share The Gospel.  Thank you and God bless you abundantly.

THE GOD OF COVENANT AND MERCY

 NEHEMIAH 1: 1 - 8

GOD OF COVENANT AND MERCY

cup bearer image courtesy of FreeBibleimages.org

1) The words of Nehemiah the son of Hachaliah.  And it came to pass in the month Chisleu, in the twentieth year, as I was in Shushan the palace,

2) That Hanani, one of my brethren, came, he and certain men of Judah; and I asked them concerning the Jews that had escaped, which were left of the captivity, and concerning Jerusalem.

3) And they said unto me, The remnant that are left of the captivity there in the province are in great affliction and reproach:  the wall of Jerusalem also is broken down, and the gates thereof are burned with fire.

4) And it came to pass, when I heard these words, that I sat down and wept, and mourned certain days, and fasted, and prayed before the God of heaven,

5) And said, I beseech Thee, O LORD God of heaven, the great and terrible God, that keeps covenant and mercy for them that love Him and observe His commandments:

6) Let Thine ear now be attentive, and Thine eyes open, that Thou mayest hear the prayer of Thy servant, which I pray before Thee now, day and night, for the children of Israel Thy servants, and confess the sins of the children of Israel, which we have sinned against Thee:  both I and my father's house have sinned

7) We have dealt very corruptly against Thee, and have not kept the commandments, nor the statutes, nor the judgments, which Thou commanded Thy servant Moses.

8) Remember, I beseech Thee, the word that Thou commanded Thy servant Moses, saying, If ye transgress, I will scatter you abroad among the nations:

9) But if ye turn unto Me, and keep My commandments, and do them; though there were of you cast out unto the uttermost part of the heaven, yet will I gather them from thence, and will bring them unto the place that I have chosen to set My Name there.

10) Now these are Thy servants and Thy people, whom Thou hast redeemed by Thy great power, and by Thy strong hand.

11)  O LORD, I beseech Thee, let now thine ear be attentive to the prayer of Thy servant, and to the prayer of Thy servants, who desire to fear Thy Name:  and prosper, I pray Thee, Thy servant this day, and grant him mercy in the sight of this man.  For I was the king's cupbearer.  King James Version (KJV) Public Domain      

COMMENTARY

   I have not replaced so many of the commentaries that I had before the flood, or I would have referenced Dr. H.A. Ironsides for this post.   I used The Tony Evans Bible Commentary for this post, as he is also well respected for his commentaries.  I like the way he wrote some of his thoughts.

   Nehemiah was written after the Babylonians captured the Israelites but had given them their freedom to go back to Jerusalem.  Some went back, some did not.  Nehemiah stayed in Babylon and was the cup bearer to the king, Artaxerxes.  This is not only a position that you would lay down your life for the king, but he was also chief of staff.  This is a position of trust and great reputation.  Many of the captured Jews worked for their captures as unto The LORD, as we are also expected to do.

   When Nehemiah asked others who had returned from Jerusalem how things were going back home, the answer bruised his soul.  He wept and mourned, fasted and prayed to God.  He confirmed that God remembered what He said he would do to the Israelites if they did not obey His commands, and Nehemiah asked Him to also remember what He said if they would be obedient.  I say once again, God wants our obedience much more than He wants our sacrifices.

   We have a tendency of making our problems and situations much bigger than life; when we should realize that God is bigger than anything that we find ourselves caught in.  There is nothing He cannot do except lie.  So, we are to start tackling our problems before the throne of God.  We fight the battles, but He has won the war for us.  Keep your eyes on Jesus, Who goes before you and behind you.  If you are faithful, He will turn the circumstances around because He honors His word and He deserves the glory for it.

   Nehemiah was praying to God before "this man", who was King Artaxerxes.  God used this pagan to accomplish His will.  By the way, the answer was not immediate.  It took over four months, but the king provided all that Nehemiah would need to rebuild Jerusalem......and gave him the time off to accomplish the task.

   What about you?  Is your relationship with the Holy God of Jerusalem such that you are confident to go before the throne and ask what you will?  Do you mourn for those you know who don't know what a great God He is?  If you are one who don't know Jesus, here is a link to get you started on the greatest journey of your life:  https://omaswisdom.blogspot.com/p/path-to-salvation.html.

If this ministry is a blessing to you, please pray that God uses our efforts for His Kingdom.  You are encouraged to leave us a message to tell us how we are making a difference in your life.  Please also share this post on your favorite social media.  Thank you so much for allowing us into your life.

THE PEACE OF GOD PHILIPPIANS 4: 6 - 8

STAND FAST IN THE LORD 

PHILIPPIANS 4: 6 - 8

6) Be anxious for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.

7) And the peace of God, which passes all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

photo courtesy of Clipart-Library.com

8) Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.  King James Version (KJV) Public Domain

COMMENTARY   

Definition of "supplication":  supplication is a form of prayer but is given humbly, in reverence, and always makes a petition or an entreaty to God.  Body language is usually with head bowed on your knees, or with face toward heaven and hands raised.

 6) Anxiety is one of Satan's most powerful tools and is a violation of The Scripture.  In Matthew 6, Jesus said, 

  31, 32)  "So don't worry at all about having enough food and clothing.  Why be like the heathen?  For they take pride in all these things and are deeply concerned about them.  But your heavenly Father already knows perfectly well that you need them, 

   33) and He will give them to you if you give Him first place in your life and live as He wants you to.

   34) So don't be anxious about tomorrow.  God will take care of your tomorrow too.  Live one day at a time."  Living Bible (TLB)

And the thanksgiving part is also so important:  We give thanks that God is in control over everything that touches our lives.  Fear not.  We thank Him that He counts us worthy to endure our unpleasant circumstances, leaning on His power to see us through to the other side.

7) This is a supernatural peace that is only for those who have been saved.  It is a tranquil calm in the midst of the storm.

8) This is a constant state for the spiritually stable man:  constantly THINKING, REASONING, STUDYING on TRUTH.  The world today runs on feelings and relativism.  Be ye separated from the world, and use the intellect you were born with.  As you obey these instructions, you gain even more wisdom! 

Truth is the Word of God in the Holy Bible.

Honorable is respectful and dignified.

Right (righteous) is consistent with God's law and His unchanging standards.

Pure is holy, morally clean, undefiled.

Lovely is pleasing to God.  He created us for His good pleasure.

Of good repute--thoughts that are lofty.  Consider your circumstance from the viewpoint of heaven.

True Believers study the Holy Bible, listen to praise music, fellowship with other Brothers and reason on another level.  We don't get washed away in the flood; we are like trees planted firmly and unmoving.  We keep our eyes on Jesus.  We know THIS is not our final destination.

Do you have spiritual stability?  Don't you want the peace that is only found in Jesus, especially in the world today?  Friend, take it now, while there is still time.  Click here for more information:   'https://omaswisdom.blogspot.com/p/path-to-salvation.html

We welcome your prayers, thoughts, comments....and feedback.  If this post is a blessing to you, please share it on your favorite social media.  Thank you and God bless you richly.

 

CONNIE, FROM 2012

The following was posted by Connie while she was battling cancer, which she succumbed to in 2018.  Her life had meaning and she had purpose.

Connie Wiser-Chesney on Facebook

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Lord...You are my God.  You breathed on me and I was...All the time inside my mother's womb, You cradled me.  You colored my eyes...You put freckles on my face.  You shaped my nose to curl up just so slightly.  And You made my hair curly and brown.
My journey from womb to coffin has been written with Mercy's pen.  Your Hand of Grace has guided every step of my life.  Even when I was crazy on the back of a Harley Davidson...You kept me balanced.  You protected me each time death looked at me.  You spared my life for some unknown reason.
Each stepping-stone I crossed, You held my hand.  You brought me through the fire with out even a smell of smoke.  GLORIOUS.
And as I face another valley, I know You have already been there.  I am not afraid.  I will proudly and boldly cross the valley with full armor and climb up the MOUNTAIN OF GOD!
All I ask is that I do it to please You!  To make You proud of me!  To show everyone that it isn't about us-------IT'S ABOUT YOU, LORD!I WILL SERVE YOU AS LONG AS I LIVE!  AMEN!!!!

What about you? How is your life going? If you want a life of joy and purpose, click here to discover how: https://omaswisdom.blogspot.com/p/path-to-salvation.html