The church of Philadelphia (which of course means brotherly love) is one of two churches that Jesus has nothing against. This is the kind of church we want to imitate. Of course, this is the kind of church that is probably attacked the most as well. As with the church of Philadelphia, we are to keep His word, stand strong in our faith, and persevere. We will go through trouble, but God is with us and He will open doors for us. As Paul says, nothing on this earth can compare to the glory that awaits us in heave and nothing can separate us from God’s love if we believe and trust in Him.
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Job’s Complaint and God’s Response
So far we have talked about Job’s encounter with his three “friends” and with the wise Elihu. After his debates with these people, God steps in. Job has been through a lot. It is not surprising that he would have some complaints. But as he talks with his friends, he begins to defend himself and tells them of all the accomplishments he has done and how righteous he is. He complains to God and questions God. Often times, people of faith had doubts and turn to God and ask why and ask where he was. Many of the Psalms are like that. But this is different. Job makes accusations and forgets his place. He becomes a little arrogant. In the beginning of the book, God brags about Job’s righteousness and commends him, so we know that he is a righteous, godly man. But sometimes we need a little reminder of who God is and that we are not perfect.
Continue reading “Job’s Complaint and God’s Response”Value of the Kingdom
Today we will discuss the last of the parables of Jesus in this series. Here He talks about the value of the Kingdom of Heaven. Jesus tells 3 short parables describing God’s Kingdom, and when people realize how great it is, the treasure of it far outweighs any sacrifice or struggle they might encounter.
Continue reading “Value of the Kingdom”What Kind of Steward Are You?
Jesus mentions stewardship a few times during His ministry, as do the apostles in their letters to the churches. In this parable, he talks about an unjust steward who is applauded by his rich employer for his shrewdness. This is a hard one to understand the lesson behind the story. What do you think?
Continue reading “What Kind of Steward Are You?”Sin is More Than a Mistake
We all make mistakes. We all sin. Are they the same? No! Should we dwell on either one of them? No! We have hope. I once heard someone say God forgives our mistakes. No! Jesus paid for our sins. He saved us from our evil (sinful) nature, from what is in our hearts. If we accept that gift, we are saved from sin, we will receive God’s grace. Unfortunately, we have to live with our mistakes, but we can also learn from them. But sin is much more serious. Sin leads to death. Without the blood that Christ shed for us, we are doomed for hell. But, when we trust in Jesus, we have an inheritance in heaven. No matter what we have done in the past, He will forgive us.
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