Some Reasons Why It Could be God's Will that We Suffer

Some Reasons Why It Could Be God’s Will That We Suffer

By Estelle Nazary

 To refine us.  Behold, I have refined you, but not as silver; I have tested you in the furnace of affliction. Isaiah 48:10

 For His sake.  "Blessed are you when people insult you and persecute you, and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of Me. "Rejoice and be glad, for your reward in heaven is great; for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you. Matthew 5:11-12

Discipline.  He will die for lack of instruction, And in the greatness of his folly he will go astray. Proverbs 5:23; "You will be hated by all because of My name, but it is the one who has endured to the end who will be saved. Matthew 10:22; For to you it has been granted for Christ's sake, not only to believe in Him, but also to suffer for His sake. Philippians 1:29

To be able to help others.  Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our affliction so that we will be able to comfort those who are in any affliction with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.

2 Corinthians 1:3-4

To humble us. Because of the surpassing greatness of the revelations, for this reason, to keep me from exalting myself, there was given me a thorn in the flesh, a messenger of Satan to torment me-to keep me from exalting myself! 2 Corinthians 12:7

To remind us of our helplessness.  "I am the vine, you are the branches; he who abides in Me and I in him, he bears much fruit, for apart from Me you can do nothing. John 15:5

To make us trust Him.  indeed, we had the sentence of death within ourselves so that we would not trust in ourselves, but in God who raises the dead; 2 Corinthians 1:9

To release us from sin’s power.  Therefore, since Christ has suffered in the flesh, arm yourselves also with the same purpose, because he who has suffered in the flesh has ceased from sin, 1 Peter 4:1

Jesus did.  For since He Himself was tempted in that which He has suffered, He is able to come to the aid of those who are tempted. Hebrews 5:8

To teach us obedience.  Although He was a Son, He learned obedience from the things which He suffered. Hebrews 5:8

For sin.  The heart is more deceitful than all else And is desperately sick; Who can understand it? Jeremiah 17:9

Helps us commit ourselves to God.  And Jesus, crying out with a loud voice, said, "Father, INTO YOUR HANDS I COMMIT MY SPIRIT." Having said this, He breathed His last. Luke 23:46

Can bring peace and mercy.  Those who desire to make a good showing in the flesh try to compel you to be circumcised, simply so that they will not be persecuted for the cross of Christ. For those who are circumcised do not even keep the Law themselves, but they desire to have you circumcised so that they may boast in your flesh. But may it never be that I would boast, except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, through which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world. For neither is circumcision anything, nor uncircumcision, but a new creation. And those who will walk by this rule, peace and mercy be upon them, and upon the Israel of God. Galatians 6:12-16

For chastisement. 'Do not fear what you are about to suffer. Behold, the devil is about to cast some of you into prison, so that you will be tested, and you will have tribulation for ten days. Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life. Revelation 2:10

Problems Between Us

Problem Solving Between Us

Sermon by Jack Nazary

Calvary Baptist – 1984; West Jackson Baptist 1989; Yockanookany Baptist 1990

"If your brother sins, go and show him his fault in private; if he listens to you, you have won your brother.”But if he does not listen to you, take one or two more with you, so that BY THE MOUTH OF TWO OR THREE WITNESSES EVERY FACT MAY BE CONFIRMED. "If he refuses to listen to them, tell it to the church; and if he refuses to listen even to the church, let him be to you as a Gentile and a tax collector.

Matthew 18:15-17

In conflicts between us, we neglect the steps set forth in the Word of God.  If these steps were followed, it would answer Christ’s prayer in John 17:21 - that they may all be one; even as You, Father, are in Me and I in You, that they also may be in Us, so that the world may believe that You sent Me.

Let’s look at Matthew 18:15-17 to discuss the proper steps in problem solving between us.

 “If your brother”…         We are to have love for one another.  The use of Brother in this verse is a term of endearment to illustrate that your fellow Christians are your family.  God and the world expect us to demonstrate special loyalty to each other.  In fact, 1 John 3:16 states that We know love by this, that He laid down His life for us; and we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren.   In John 13, Jesus explains to the disciples the importance of loving one another even as Jesus himself loves us, we are to loved others in the same way.  The love that we have will show all men that we are Disciples of Christ. 

“Sins…”  The King James Version expands “sins” by saying “shall trespass against you”.  The word trespass here in the New Testament is not used elsewhere.  In this particular verse, trespass means to miss the mark; to cause one not to share in a prize.  The words “against you” are not in some manuscripts.  In basic sense, when a Christian sins “against you”, he misses the mark by damaging the reputation of Christ and offends all that are called by that name.  When David sinned, the prophet said because by this deed you have given occasion to the enemies of the LORD to blaspheme – 2 Samuel 12:14.  In other words, his sin caused others to fail and disrespect the Lord.  Our first response when we see a brother “sin” or miss the mark is to think “He hasn’t really offended me, therefore, I’m not responsible”, but the Bible makes it our responsibility.  When one member of the body hurts, the whole body hurts. 

“Go…”  Going to someone that has sinned is God’s greatest test of genuine love.  It is easy to pass judgment in your mind and forget it.  It is easy to tell someone else hoping that they will do something about it.  It is easier to go boldly to him and tell him he’s wrong.  However, the best way to “go” is in the spirit of Galatians 6:1 - Brethren, even if anyone is caught in any trespass, you who are spiritual, restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness ; each one looking to yourself, so that you too will not be tempted.

Before we “go”, we need to examine ourselves to see if we have failed in similar areas.     

• Our judgment - Therefore you have no excuse, everyone of you who passes judgment, for in that which you judge another, you condemn yourself; for you who judge practice the same things. And we know that the judgment of God rightly falls upon those who practice such things. But do you suppose this, O man, when you pass judgment on those who practice such things and do the same yourself, that you will escape the judgment of God? Romans 2:1-3
• Our lack of prayer for the person – "Moreover, as for me, far be it from me that I should sin against the LORD by ceasing to pray for you; but I will instruct you in the good and right way. 1 Samuel 12:23
•   Our failure to be an example to him - and make straight paths for your feet, so that the limb which is lame may not be put out of joint, but rather be healed. Hebrews 12:13; …restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness; each one looking to yourself, so that you too will not be tempted. Galatians 6:1

“Show him his fault…”  This step is very difficult.  The questions that we may have – What do I say as I approach him?; What reason can I give for talking about something he doesn’t want to discuss?; How can I avoid giving the impression that I’m intruding in his private business especially if the offense was not directly against me?  The answer is that we should simply say “I always want to give a good report about you to anyone who asks.  For this reason, I wonder if you could explain something to me that I’m not sure I understand.”  This shows you are loyal and not condemning him, but coming as a learner and servant.  If the offense is against you personally, you might say, “Is there something that I have done to cause you to react to me in this way.”

Be sure to look at yourself.  Do you have a beam or a splinter in your eye? – "Why do you look at the speck that is in your brother's eye, but do not notice the log that is in your own eye? “Or how can you say to your brother, 'Let me take the speck out of your eye,' and behold, the log is in your own eye? "You hypocrite, first take the log out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to take the speck out of your brother's eye. Matthew 7:3-5 

Sometimes being able to examine ourselves and pointing out our own fault, helps others to see theirs in the same area. 

If you have the slightest offense, attitude, or neglect on your part that might have contributing to his offense you must follow Matthew 5:23-24 - "Therefore if you are presenting your offering at the altar, and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your offering there before the altar and go; first be reconciled to your brother, and then come and present your offering.

“his fault in private…”  This is must be between you and him alone.  If you tell someone else before talking to “him”, 3 problems tend to be created:

1.      We prove to God and the ones that we tell that we don’t love the offender and we don’t love the Lord himself who said in John 14:15 – If you love me, you will keep my commandments.

2.      We tempt the listener to take up offense against him which may destroy friendships.  A perverse man spreads strife, And a slanderer separates intimate friends. Proverbs 16:28

3.      It can destroy the sincerity of our approach and hinder the potential of restoring him.  Argue your case with your neighbor, And do not reveal the secret of another, Proverbs 25:9

To give a bad report to another is to speak evil of “him”.  The most important reason to go directly to the offender is to check out all the facts – get the facts from the “horse’s mouth.”

“If he listens to you, you have won your brother…”  God assumes that we want to win the brother back rather than condemn him.  If we go to expose him, we fall into the temptation warned about in Galatians 6:1 - you too will not be tempted.  Typically the greatest offense to us or others is through words.  We are not always sure what word mean to others.  When we share with “him” what his words meant to us, it will help him to be more precise in his message to others.  If we assume that he meant what we heard him say and attack him for it, we are using Satan’s most effective tool of dividing Christians in the church.

“But if he does not listen to you, take one or two more with you, so that BY THE MOUTH OF TWO OR THREE WITNESSES EVERY FACT MAY BE CONFIRMED”…  If it is difficult to go to the offender alone, it may be even more difficult to go a 2^nd time with the right witnesses, but it may be necessary if the steps Jesus suggested are to be followed in restoring a brother who persists in his offense.  If he offense was by words, two or three confirms what “he” meant by the words spoken. If the offense was by actions, the ideal witness would be those who conquered similar problems.  In other words, those that have battled similar problems could witness to him first before witnessing against him. 

“If he refuses to listen to them, tell it to the church…”  The purpose of this statement is not to expose, but to enlist the help of the church in restoring the brother.  As more know, the more humbling it is to the offender.  James 4:6 - But He gives a greater grace. Therefore it says, "GOD IS OPPOSED TO THE PROUD, BUT GIVES GRACE TO THE HUMBLE."  This grace is the desire and power to do God’s will and this is what he needs to overcome his problem.  It can also be a warning and cleansing agent within the church.  One person’s stumbling is likely to happen to others in the church.  Therefore, the exposure can help others keep from stumbling as well.  The response of the church should be that of prayer and fasting for self-examination.  As “he” sees the church humbled it can be motivation for him to repent.  We need to ask the offender for forgiveness if the church has contributed to the offense. 

“if he refuses to listen even to the church, let him be to you as a Gentile and a tax collector.” 

In 2 Corinthians 2:6-8, Paul says that Sufficient for such a one is this punishment which was inflicted by the majority, so that on the contrary you should rather forgive and comfort him, otherwise such a one might be overwhelmed by excessive sorrow. Wherefore I urge you to reaffirm your love for him. 

In 1 Timothy 5:19-21, Paul reinforces the procedure.  This assumes that there should be harmony, unity in church. Do not receive an accusation against an elder except on the basis of two or three witnesses. Those who continue in sin, rebuke in the presence of all, so that the rest also will be fearful of sinning. I solemnly charge you in the presence of God and of Christ Jesus and of His chosen angels, to maintain these principles without bias, doing nothing in a spirit of partiality. If not, the church should be cleaned before discipline.   If anyone does not obey our instruction in this letter, take special note of that person and do not associate with him, so that he will be put to shame. Yet do not regard him as an enemy, but admonish him as a brother.  2 Thessalonians 3:14-15

According to 1 Corinthians 5:11-13, there are six offenses that require church discipline. - But actually, I wrote to you not to associate with any so-called brother if he is an immoral person, or covetous, or an idolater, or a reviler, or a drunkard, or a swindler -not even to eat with such a one. For what have I to do with judging outsiders? Do you not judge those who are within the church? 1 But those who are outside, God judges. REMOVE THE WICKED MAN FROM AMONG YOURSELVES.

      Fornicator – to have illicit sexual relations; whoremongers

      Covetous – to have more; to have that which belongs to others; greed

      Idolatry – turning away from God to idols either openly or in secret, consciously or unconsciously.

     Reviler – to abuse

     Drunkard – to be drunk with wine; intoxicated

     Swindler – plundering; to carry away by force; spoiling

The Gift

Since February 2009, I have been trying to organize and preserve the hundreds of sermons and devotionals written by my grandfather and grandmother.  I was excited to find a few sermon outlines written by my great grandfather, W.H. Wood.  However, it was only a few typed formal outlines.  Today, I received the best and most precious gift that I have ever received simply because it is absolutely priceless.  My dear aunt Nell has allowed me the distinct honor of enjoying all of W.H. Wood's handwritten notes, sermon outlines, notebooks, papers from college, etc.  I am beyond thrilled to have this treasure in my possession for a time.  I plan to organize and preserve them so future generations can enjoy the special story and words of an amazing man of God, my great grandfather, William Henry Wood.

The Growing Life

Paul prays for growth in Philippians, Colossians, and Ephesians

"The Growing Life"

Author Unknown

And I, brethren, could not speak to you as to spiritual men, but as to men of flesh, as to infants in Christ.

1 Corinthians 3:1

It is a tragedy when a child never grows up.  The tragedy is that there are those who fail to grow up spiritually. Many Christians remain infants in Christ.  However, there are ways to grow in love, true knowledge, and perfect judgment.

One way to have a growing life is by allowing the Holy Spirit to fill your life and give you power.  In   Ephesians 5:18, we are instructed to be filled with the Spirit.  The Holy Spirit is to be everything to disciples that Jesus was while He was on earth.  Furthermore, Galatians 5:16 states that we are to walk by the Spirit so we will not carry out the desire of the flesh.  

The Holy Spirit is:

  Your friend - "You are My friends if you do what I command you. John 15:14

  Your guide and teacher - "But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all that I said to you. John 14:26

   Your director - While they were ministering to the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, "Set apart for Me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them." Acts 13:2

  Your assurance of Salvation - In Him, you also, after listening to the message of truth, the gospel of your salvation -having also believed, you were sealed in Him with the Holy Spirit of promise, Ephesians 1:13

 Your partner in prayer - In the same way the Spirit also helps our weakness; for we do not know how to pray as we should, but the Spirit Himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words; and He who searches the hearts knows what the mind of the Spirit is, because He intercedes for the saints according to the will of God. Romans 8:26-27

Your source of power - that He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with power through His Spirit in the inner man, Ephesians 3:16.

Why are we so reluctant to allow the Holy Spirit to fill our lives and give us power?  

A growing life can be accomplished by keeping His commands.

"If you love Me, you will keep My commandments. - John 14:15

"He who has My commandments and keeps them is the one who loves Me; and he who loves Me will be loved by My Father, and I will love him and will disclose Myself to him." John 14:21

Most commands are to love people and to evangelize.

Another way to have a growing life is by following Christ in Baptism and serving Him in fellowship with believers.

So then, those who had received his word were baptized; and that day there were added about three thousand souls. They were continually devoting themselves to the apostles' teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. Acts 2:41-42

As Believers, we should be baptized and share together in worship, prayer, fellowship, and witnessing. 

Your life in Christ will grow by daily Prayer and the study of God's Word.

All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work. 2 Timothy 3:16-17

Then Jesus was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil. And after He had fasted forty days and forty nights, He then became hungry. And the tempter came and said to Him, "If You are the Son of God, command that these stones become bread." But He answered and said, "It is written, 'MAN SHALL NOT LIVE ON BREAD ALONE, BUT ON EVERY WORD THAT PROCEEDS OUT OF THE MOUTH OF GOD.' “Then the devil took Him into the holy city and had Him stand on the pinnacle of the temple, and said to Him, "If You are the Son of God, throw Yourself down; for it is written, 'HE WILL COMMAND HIS ANGELS CONCERNING YOU'; and 'ON their HANDS THEY WILL BEAR YOU UP, SO THAT YOU WILL NOT STRIKE YOUR FOOT AGAINST A STONE.' “Jesus said to him, "On the other hand, it is written, 'YOU SHALL NOT PUT THE LORD YOUR GOD TO THE TEST.' “Again, the devil took Him to a very high mountain and showed Him all the kingdoms of the world and their glory; and he said to Him, "All these things I will give You, if You fall down and worship me."  Then Jesus said to him, "Go, Satan! For it is written, 'YOU SHALL WORSHIP THE LORD YOUR GOD, AND SERVE HIM ONLY.' Matthew 4:1-10

Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6-7

You can grow by being a faithful manager of all the gifts God gives to you.

In this case, moreover, it is required of stewards that one be found trustworthy.1 Corinthians 4:2

It is required of stewards that a man be found faithful.

As each one has received a special gift, employ it in serving one another as good stewards of the manifold grace of God. 1 Peter 4:10

You will grow as you share your faith by your life and your words. 

but you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be My witnesses both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and even to the remotest part of the earth."  Acts 1:8.

Can others tell that you're different?

Do others hear from your lips what Jesus Christ has done for you?

There is no road to Spiritual growth that neglects your personal witness for Jesus Christ.

Love

Love

by Estelle Nazary

"God's love has been poured out in our hearts through the Holy Spirit." Romans 5:5

Characteristics of love:

Love is very patient and kind, never jealous or envious, never boastful or proud, never haughty or selfish or rude. Love does not demand its own way. It is not irritable or touchy. It does not hold grudges and will hardly even notice when others do it wrong. It is never glad about injustice, but rejoices whenever truth wins out. If you love someone you will be loyal to him no matter what the cost. You will always believe in him, always expect the best of him and always stand your ground in defending him.

Romans 12:9 - "Let love be real"

Peace of God

Peace of God

Sermon by Jack Nazary at 16 different churches from 1984-2003

Therefore, my beloved brethren whom I long to see, my joy and crown, in this way stand firm in the Lord, my beloved. I urge Euodia and I urge Syntyche to live in harmony in the Lord. Indeed, true companion, I ask you also to help these women who have shared my struggle in the cause of the gospel, together with Clement also and the rest of my fellow workers, whose names are in the book of life. Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice! Let your gentle spirit be known to all men. The Lord is near. Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard (keep) your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, dwell on these things. The things you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you. But I rejoiced in the Lord greatly, that now at last you have revived your concern for me; indeed, you were concerned before, but you lacked opportunity. Not that I speak from want, for I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am. Philippians 4:1-11

Imagine a life where there is never worry, never upset, never loses his cool, do not get intimidated, always rejoice and are happy, nothing goes wrong. It's possible! The Bible says so!!

The conditions set forth in these passages of scripture need to be met which will result in Peace of God.

In Philippians 4:7, the KJV uses "Keep".  And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Keep means to stabilize and keep it level - emotions and mind - to all be born again!

Ways to help receive the peace of God are to read the Word, pray, witness, give, attend church, love each other...

Christian’s need Consistency.  Therefore, my brethren dearly beloved and longed for, my joy and crown, so stand fast in the Lord, my dearly beloved. Philippians 4:1

Consistency is met by continuing to be “steadfast in the apostles’ doctrine". "Steadfast, unmovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord" I Corinthians 15:58 

Vance Havner said, "Most of God's people are so subnormal that if they ever got normal, we think they are abnormal."

Christians tend to have a Roller Coaster lifestyle - devil and demons mess up our lives by getting us disobedient to the word of God.  Romans 8:37says that we are “More than conquerors.”

We can be consistent in our walk with the Lord, by being obedient and steadfast. 

Christian’s should have desire for Unity.  I urge Euodia and I urge Syntyche to live in harmony in the Lord  Philippians 4:2

Is there anyone that you don’t like?  Are you selfish in serving?  As a Christian, we must work together as one member of the body of Christ.  We are commanded to love others as yourself.  It is difficult at times to love others, but we must unite as one.  

"Do good unto all men, especially unto those of household of faith"

Christian’s should have a heart for Service. Indeed, true companion, I ask you also to help these women who have shared my struggle in the cause of the gospel, together with Clement also and the rest of my fellow workers, whose names are in the book of life. Philippians 4:3

Go to work for God - use your spiritual gifts that have been given to you. God expects us to work, serve, and minister. Let's get up and go to work as long as we have life!

All men are hungering for God.  We are saved by good pleasure of God's will.

Christian’s should Praise.  Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice! Philippians 4:4.

Do it whether you feel like it or not. God is not as interested in our sincerity as our                     obedience.

The steps of a righteous man are ordered of the Lord.

Christian’s need Moderation.  Let your gentle spirit be known to all men. The Lord is near. Philippians 4:5

Moderation is avoidance of extremes or excesses.  As Christian’s, our temperament should be gentle, good, and kind.

What is your home like?  How are you treating others? 

Christian’s should have Thanksgiving. Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. Philippians 4:6

There is difference in giving thanks and being thankful. In everything give thanks, then you'll get thankful.

2 Corinthians 3:17 - "Where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty"

This liberty is freedom that we get when we have consistency, unity, service, praise, moderation, and thanksgiving in our walk with the Lord.  His Spirit is inside of us; therefore, we have liberty – freedom – peace!  

A Happy, Wholesome Life

A Happy, Wholesome Life

Author Unknown - Too Good to Not Post

Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice! Let your gentle spirit be known to all men. The Lord is near. Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, dwell on these things. The things you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you. Philippians 4:4-9

      Keep your emphasis upon what the Lord has done for you. Be positive!

     Don't be insisting upon your own rights all of the time. Have a "sweet reasonableness".

     Jesus is coming back! He'll set everything right, so let Him straighten out the inequities.

     Stop Worrying. The things you have no control over - leave them to God.

     Pray a lot more than you do. "When all is said and done, more said than done."

     Fill your mind with good thoughts! Clean, beautiful, pure and sweet ought to be the things we focus our minds on.

     Keep busy doing the things of God! Inactive church members aren't the happy ones, or the healthy ones.

3 Steps to Spiritual Growth

3 Steps to Spiritual Growth

Sermon by Jack Nazary

Therefore, putting aside all malice and all deceit and hypocrisy and envy and all slander, like newborn babies, long for the pure milk of the word, so that by it you may grow in respect to salvation, if you have tasted the kindness of the Lord. And coming to Him as to a living stone which has been rejected by men, but is choice and precious in the sight of God, you also, as living stones, are being built up as a spiritual house for a holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. For this is contained in Scripture: "BEHOLD, I LAY IN ZION A CHOICE STONE, A PRECIOUS CORNER stone, AND HE WHO BELIEVES IN HIM WILL NOT BE DISAPPOINTED." This precious value, then, is for you who believe; but for those who disbelieve, "THE STONE WHICH THE BUILDERS REJECTED, THIS BECAME THE VERY CORNER stone," and, "A STONE OF STUMBLING AND A ROCK OF OFFENSE "; for they stumble because they are disobedient to the word, and to this doom they were also appointed. But you are A CHOSEN RACE, A royal PRIESTHOOD, A HOLY NATION, A PEOPLE FOR God's OWN POSSESSION, so that you may proclaim the excellencies of Him who has called you out of darkness into His marvelous light; for you once were NOT A PEOPLE, but now you are THE PEOPLE OF GOD; you had NOT RECEIVED MERCY, but now you have RECEIVED MERCY.

The 3 steps to Spiritual Growth:

1.         To Renounce Sin
2.         To Feed upon God's word
3.         To Understand and accept one's place in God's plan

In 1 Peter 2:5-10, there is good advice for all Christians.  You need to consider each step to grow by checking your own life.

The first step is to Renounce Sin.

Therefore, putting aside all malice and all deceit and hypocrisy and envy and all slander 1 Peter 2:1

The 5 sins addressed in this passage are: malice, guile, hypocrites, envies, and evil speaking.

A Christian should never be characterized in this way.

           Malice is often used as summary word for evil in general, but here it refers to a deep seated hatred of others coming from basic selfishness animosity. Such hatred seeks to hurt which is contrary to the principle of love for fellow men and especially Christian brothers and sisters.  Malice by wishing others harm should be cast off as soon as one enters God's family.

Guile is clever or tricky practices to deceive, to "catch with bait"

You are guilty when: you misquote someone in order to hurt him, make statements to mislead about another, and resort to other underhanded methods to bring him harm.

No believer should stoop to this!!

Lord's example as told by 1 Peter 2:22 "Who did no sin, neither was guile found in his               mouth:"

      Hypocrisies – A hypocrite can be anyone whose words and actions do not reflect his true identity or feelings. A hypocrite is seen as a man greets you with a smile when he actually hates you.

There is a sense of deprivation when one is hypocritical.  For example, men appointed to answer legal questions or render judgments that stand behind a screen or wore a mask to hide identity or an actor

actor playing a role, not true to himself being called a hypocrite. 

Country preacher on target when he said to congregation "Be what you are and not what you ain't; because if you ain't what you are, then you are what you think you ain't".

      Envy is the feeling of discontent and jealousy because one has greater talents, success, possessions, or receives more honors than we. It is so called "mental cancer" because it gradually destroys spiritual health

Examples of the dangers of envy:

Cain moved with envy toward brother Abel

Joseph's brothers moved with envy, sold him

Root of Aaron and Marian's rebellion against brother Moses

Pilate aware Jewish leaders were calling for death of Jesus because of envy. Matthew                  27:18

Envy has broken friendships by thousands, destroyed effective witness of churches, caused blighted lives.  The dreaded – "green eyed monster".

Proverbs 14:30 states that envy is “Rottenness of the bones".

There is no place for envy in the Christian's life. 

The second step to spiritual growth is to Feed Upon God's word.

like newborn babies, long for the pure milk of the word, so that by it you may grow in respect to salvation, 1 Peter 2:2

We need to hunger for the Word. As the deer pants for the water brooks, So my soul pants for You, O God Psalm 42:1

We should look at the Word of God as pure milk that nourishes us and helps us grow. -  Like a mother nurses her children 1 Thess. 2:7; I gave you milk to drink, not solid food; for you were not yet able to receive it. Indeed, even now you are not yet able, 1 Corinthians 3:2

We need to mature in the Word.  “For though by this time you ought to be teachers, you have need again for someone to teach you the elementary principles of the oracles of God, and you have come to need milk and not solid food.” Hebrews 5:12;

"But when He, the Spirit of truth, comes, He will guide you into all the truth; for He will not speak on His own initiative, but whatever He hears, He will speak; and He will disclose to you what is to come. John 16:13

As for you, the anointing which you received from Him abides in you, and you have no need for anyone to teach you; but as His anointing teaches you about all things, and is true and is not a lie, and just as it has taught you, you abide in Him.1 John 2:27

The third step to spiritual growth is to Accept God's Plan.

you also, as living stones, are being built up as a spiritual house for a holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. For this is contained in Scripture: "BEHOLD, I LAY IN ZION A CHOICE STONE, A PRECIOUS CORNER stone, AND HE WHO BELIEVES IN HIM WILL NOT BE DISAPPOINTED." This precious value, then, is for you who believe; but for those who disbelieve, "THE STONE WHICH THE BUILDERS REJECTED, THIS BECAME THE VERY CORNER stone," and, "A STONE OF STUMBLING AND A ROCK OF OFFENSE "; for they stumble because they are disobedient to the word, and to this doom they were also appointed. 9 But you are A CHOSEN RACE, A royal PRIESTHOOD, A HOLY NATION, A PEOPLE FOR God's OWN POSSESSION, so that you may proclaim the excellencies of Him who has called you out of darkness into His marvelous light; for you once were NOT A PEOPLE, but now you are THE PEOPLE OF GOD; you had NOT RECEIVED MERCY, but now you have RECEIVED MERCY. 1 Peter 2:5-10

We are one in a great company of believers.

you also, as living stones, are being built up as a spiritual house for a holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. 1 Peter 2:5

For through the grace given to me I say to everyone among you not to think more highly of himself than he ought to think ; but to think so as to have sound judgment, as God has allotted to each a measure of faith. For just as we have many members in one body and all the members do not have the same function, so we, who are many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another. Since we have gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, each of us is to exercise them accordingly: if prophecy, according to the proportion of his faith; if service, in his serving; or he who teaches, in his teaching; or he who exhorts, in his exhortation; he who gives, with liberality; he who leads, with diligence; he who shows mercy, with cheerfulness. Romans 12:3-8

Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit. And there are varieties of ministries, and the same Lord. There are varieties of effects, but the same God who works all things in all persons. But to each one is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good.  For to one is given the word of wisdom through the Spirit, and to another the word of knowledge according to the same Spirit; to another faith by the same Spirit, and to another gifts of healing by the one Spirit, and to another the effecting of miracles, and to another prophecy, and to another the distinguishing of spirits, to another various kinds of tongues, and to another the interpretation of tongues. But one and the same Spirit works all these things, distributing to each one individually just as He wills. For even as the body is one and yet has many members, and all the members of the body, though they are many, are one body, so also is Christ. For by one Spirit we were all baptized into one body, whether Jews or Greeks, whether slaves or free, and we were all made to drink of one Spirit. For the body is not one member, but many. If the foot says, "Because I am not a hand, I am not a part of the body," it is not for this reason any the less a part of the body. And if the ear says, "Because I am not an eye, I am not a part of the body," it is not for this reason any the less a part of the body. If the whole body were an eye, where would the hearing be? If the whole were hearing, where would the sense of smell be? But now God has placed the members, each one of them, in the body, just as He desired. If they were all one member, where would the body be? But now there are many members, but one body. And the eye cannot say to the hand, "I have no need of you"; or again the head to the feet, "I have no need of you." On the contrary, it is much truer that the members of the body which seem to be weaker are necessary; and those members of the body which we deem less honorable, on these we bestow more abundant honor, and our less presentable members become much more presentable, whereas our more presentable members have no need of it. But God has so composed the body, giving more abundant honor to that member which lacked, so that there may be no division in the body, but that the members may have the same care for one another. And if one member suffers, all the members suffer with it; if one member is honored, all the members rejoice with it. Now you are Christ's body, and individually members of it. And God has appointed in the church, first apostles, second prophets, third teachers, then miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, administrations, various kinds of tongues. All are not apostles, are they? All are not prophets, are they? All are not teachers, are they? All are not workers of miracles, are they? All do not have gifts of healings, do they? All do not speak with tongues, do they? All do not interpret, do they?  But earnestly desire the greater gifts. And I show you a still more excellent way. 1 Corinthians 12:4-31

We are to be a spiritual sacrifice acceptable to God through Jesus because we are chosen race and a part of a Royal Priesthood.

you also, as living stones, are being built up as a spiritual house for a holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.1 Peter 2:5,

But you are A CHOSEN RACE, A royal PRIESTHOOD, A HOLY NATION, A PEOPLE FOR God's OWN POSSESSION, so that you may proclaim the excellencies of Him who has called you out of darkness into His marvelous light 1 Peter 2:9

Therefore I urge you, brethren, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies a living and holy sacrifice, acceptable to God, which is your spiritual service of worship. Romans 12:1

We are to have a voice of praise to proclaim the excellencies of God.

But you are A CHOSEN RACE, A royal PRIESTHOOD, A HOLY NATION, A PEOPLE FOR God's OWN POSSESSION, so that you may proclaim the excellencies of Him who has called you out of darkness into His marvelous light; 1 Peter 2:9

and if children, heirs also, heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ, if indeed we suffer with Him so that we may also be glorified with Him. Romans 8:17

Work, Worship, Present Self

3 Fold Message of the Bible about Burdens

3 Fold Message of the Bible about Burdens

by Estelle Nazary

People everywhere have burdens. They come sooner or later to us all!

Sometimes, burdens are to be seen and known of all.

Sometimes, burdens are to be borne which outside world knows nothing about!

You may be sitting beside someone who is bearing a burden which you have never dreamed – weighty! The Bible teaches us lessons of patience, restraint, tolerance, charitableness, love, careful of our words, actions, and attitudes.

3 Things about Burdens

      Every man shall bear his own burden. Galatians 6:5

     Bear ye one another's burdens and so fulfill the law of Christ. Galatians 6:2

    Cast thy burden upon the Lord and He shall sustain thee.  Psalm 55:2

The Whole Story in the Bible:

         Burdens are non-transferable

Born alone - die alone

Between cradle and grave much of life is alone. Duty is personal. Responsibility is personal. Repentance is personal. Sin is personal. Behavior is personal. Faith is personal. Salvation and judgment is personal. Obedience is personal.

Each must give account of himself - No one can take your place.

Christ sees the individual - the one - We must never lose ourselves in the crowd.

Jonathan Edwards: "Resolve that every man should live at this best always and everywhere for God and resolve whether anybody else does it, I will."

           Many burdens are social - Bear ye one another's burdens. Galatians 6:2

Paul saw a life out of its proper place - limb out of joint - don't restore it harshly - do it gently – have a spirit of meekness. Tomorrow you may have the burden.

Always have sympathy for sorrowing and those with weighty burdens & heavy responsibility.

You can help lighten the burden by good cheer, sympathy, love, prayer, reinforcement...Help people in 2 ways:

       Live right ourselves - one good person with right attitude (spirit) all the time and everywhere can change a community or group in time.

      Make it a point to constantly encourage people. No person has a right to discourage others. Encourage – “there's a way out of this burden” – “there's a way up the hill” – “come on and let's go together” - Speak like that all the time. Barnabas - son of consolation.

         Cast thy burden upon the Lord. Psalm 55:22

One might say “I want to run away from it all”. Where will you go?

If you do go, you still have to live with yourself - memory, conscience, discord, troubles, burden, pressure...

You can't run away from burdens. We must face them full-fledged - straight forward.

Still small voice of God saying you don't have to face this by yourself. Take God into your plan! God is alive and He loves! He lives! Cast thy burden upon the Lord.

There are so many types of burdens a person can have:  A personal burden which is heaviest of all, domestic burden which is heart-breaking, financial burdens, mental anguish, emotional illness, disconcerted plans, broken promises, disappointment in people, children, family members, and spouse, ill health - yourself or one dearer to us than life...

Bring them to the Lord and He shall sustain thee!

How?

One of 2 ways:

      Either one will do…He may take it away. He may make you well or your loved one well. He may lift you out of the trouble. He may take it away.

      He may not - Then what?

"I will sustain you" - I'll help you through it! I'll take the bigger end of the load! I'll take all the load that is not best for you to take! He will overrule, sustain, and help!

2 Corinthians 12:7 - Paul's thorn in his flesh, a messenger of Satan to torment me.  3 times he prayed to the Lord, but the answer was No! I'm going to leave it, in order to sanctify that experience. It will make a bigger man of you, better, wiser man, more sympathizing man. Instead the Lord responded, “My grace is sufficient for you, for power is perfected in weakness.” 2 Corinthians 12:9

He will take it away or He will sustain you to make you better, greater, more useful. Sanctify it to help you so you can help others! Whatever comes, God's will be done and in that moment peace is won!

One set of footprints… God carried you through the troubles! Safe in the arms of Jesus…

Reflection:

        Where is God? What would be your answer?

        Why do people (especially Christians) suffer?

        In what way and to what degree is God responsible for suffering?

        If sin is the cause of suffering, whose sin is it - the sin of the sufferer or of someone else? John 9:3; Romans 3:10, 23

        Should we expect God to shield or protect us in some miraculous way from suffering or sorrow? Can we pray this without praying it for others? Can we become selfish in our praying?

        Does God ever prevent or relieve suffering in some miraculous way?

        What should we let God do for us and through us because of our suffering?

        When a burden comes and a person is bitter, how can you overcome this bitterness? How can you give love? How can you give yourself?

Burdens or suffering will make us better or bitter.

God whispers to us in our pleasures, speaks in our conscience, and shouts in our pain.