Thursday, November 26, 2015

Happy Thanksgiving! 
 
Oh, give thanks to the Lord, for He is good!  His mercy endures forever! ~Psalm 118:1

Thank you God for this country, our founding fathers, a warm house, plenty of food, Your beautiful creation, a loving family, and most of all, thank you for salvation through Jesus Christ!  What a wonderful reminder for us to be thankful.  We can thank the Lord for His love for us, no matter what circumstance we are in.

Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks;
for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.  ~1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
 

Thursday, November 19, 2015

Following Him

 
 
As the world changes rapidly, how willing are we to follow God in the midst of persecution?  Living in the United States, it's been easy to SAY we follow Christ and devote our life to Him.  But, we haven't had to face a situation where our faith in Christ could lead to imprisonment or even death.  Are we still willing to follow Him with the threat of that kind of persecution?
 
Yes, and all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution. 
II Timothy 3:12
 
In the recent college shooting, students were asked if they were Christians.  Knowing the outcome of their answer, they didn't back down.  How would we respond?
 
How about a lesser persecution?   As Christians, our freedoms are rapidly being taken away.  Can we remain steadfast in the Lord and not compromise our belief in Him by giving in to the world's immoral demands?  What are we willing to lose to stand up for what we know is right according to God's Word?  As our country continues downward, we will face persecution right here . . . are you ready?
 
I think we've become complacent and give in to the world's distorted view of what is right far too easily.  We need to know what is right and wrong according to the Word of God.  Stay steadfast, spend time in prayer and studying God's Word each day.  Rejoice in the persecution you endure!  Yes, rejoice, knowing we are growing closer to God.  Rejoice, in the opportunity to pray for those who persecute us. 
 
Thank you Lord, for being with us through everything!
 
Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain. 
1 Corinthians 15:58