June 15
Deuteronomy: 5:17
17 You must never murder anyone.
Deuteronomy: 5:17
17 You must never murder anyone.
Sunday, June 16, 2013
DAY 22 - DAILY DEVOTION - JUNE 15, 2013
June 15
The Real Help
Posted on June 15, 2013 by katherine
We had a situation that came up today that was a little dis-heartening, hurtful & scary all at the same time. My first reaction was this can’t be happening since I am getting married in 8 days.
I had a choice to make? Was I going to let the situation at hand destroy my peace & cause fear, or was I going to continue trusting God that He brought us this far & He’s not going to leave us now.
I know the journey in life can get a little tiring, dusty, and dirty for all of us at times. Will you be like Job and say, “though he slay me, yet will I trust him?” Or, will you be like Job’s wife and curse God and die?
Be determined to press forward through the battle/valley – don’t settle there & get bogged down- dig your heels in the ground, gain your composure, pray, and stir yourself up in the Lord. Realize that God is still on the throne even in the midst of heartaches, dis-appointments, and even tragedy’s.
I encourage you to be like King David and “Bless the Lord O your soul and all that is within you Bless His Holy Name.”
As I heard God whisper to me tonight, Katherine, this situation is not yours- its mine.” I can hear God saying that to you tonight.. God’s got this.. Don’t fret or worry.. He’s got it.. Just look to Him- that is where your real help comes from, not anyone or anything- Only God!
“My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth! He will not let you stumble; The one who watches over you will not slumber. The Lord himself watches over you! The Lord stands beside you as your protective shade. The sun will not harm you by day, nor the moon at night. The Lord keeps you from all harm and watches over your life.The Lord keeps watch over you as you come and go, both now and forever.” Ps. 121
The Real Help
Posted on June 15, 2013 by katherine
We had a situation that came up today that was a little dis-heartening, hurtful & scary all at the same time. My first reaction was this can’t be happening since I am getting married in 8 days.
I had a choice to make? Was I going to let the situation at hand destroy my peace & cause fear, or was I going to continue trusting God that He brought us this far & He’s not going to leave us now.
I know the journey in life can get a little tiring, dusty, and dirty for all of us at times. Will you be like Job and say, “though he slay me, yet will I trust him?” Or, will you be like Job’s wife and curse God and die?
Be determined to press forward through the battle/valley – don’t settle there & get bogged down- dig your heels in the ground, gain your composure, pray, and stir yourself up in the Lord. Realize that God is still on the throne even in the midst of heartaches, dis-appointments, and even tragedy’s.
I encourage you to be like King David and “Bless the Lord O your soul and all that is within you Bless His Holy Name.”
As I heard God whisper to me tonight, Katherine, this situation is not yours- its mine.” I can hear God saying that to you tonight.. God’s got this.. Don’t fret or worry.. He’s got it.. Just look to Him- that is where your real help comes from, not anyone or anything- Only God!
“My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth! He will not let you stumble; The one who watches over you will not slumber. The Lord himself watches over you! The Lord stands beside you as your protective shade. The sun will not harm you by day, nor the moon at night. The Lord keeps you from all harm and watches over your life.The Lord keeps watch over you as you come and go, both now and forever.” Ps. 121
DAY 22 - DAILY PRAYER (SUICIDE) - JUNE 15, 2013
June 15
For All Those Who Face Abortion
Dear Heavenly Father, God Almighty of the whole Universe, may thy Light, Life and Love fill the expanse of thy Creation, and assist all those who consider or have gone through this Soul Destroying ordeal. May Peace be spoken to their Hearts, minds, and Souls, and may they repent with power.
May we have the strength to Choose the Right, regardless of the consequences. May all mothers considering this horrible action be granted a vision, however brief, of their unborn children, realizing how precious they really are. And remember the commitments that we made to each other before coming to this earth.
Protect them from the Adversary Father. Lead them in the Path of Eternal Life.
May my fellow brothers feel the Power of the Holy Ghost and be convinced of their duty, honor, and obligation to their unborn children, and be the strong shoulder to lean on that thy Daughters need so badly.
May those men and brothers radiate true manhood: the kind that is as strong as steel and yet as tender as linen. May they have the courage, honor, and fortitude to support their wives or girlfriends and children as thou has ordained. May their Hearts remember their commitments in the Grand Counsel.
Please, please, please Father, forgive those Daughters who have already done this, to know of thy Love, personally; to receive an answer to their prayers for forgiveness, that they can be filled with knowledge that surpasseth all understanding.
Thank you for the Sacrifice of thy Son and our older Brother, Jesus Christ, and His Atonement. May every knee bow, and tongue confess that Jesus is the Christ. Amen.
For All Those Who Face Abortion
Dear Heavenly Father, God Almighty of the whole Universe, may thy Light, Life and Love fill the expanse of thy Creation, and assist all those who consider or have gone through this Soul Destroying ordeal. May Peace be spoken to their Hearts, minds, and Souls, and may they repent with power.
May we have the strength to Choose the Right, regardless of the consequences. May all mothers considering this horrible action be granted a vision, however brief, of their unborn children, realizing how precious they really are. And remember the commitments that we made to each other before coming to this earth.
Protect them from the Adversary Father. Lead them in the Path of Eternal Life.
May my fellow brothers feel the Power of the Holy Ghost and be convinced of their duty, honor, and obligation to their unborn children, and be the strong shoulder to lean on that thy Daughters need so badly.
May those men and brothers radiate true manhood: the kind that is as strong as steel and yet as tender as linen. May they have the courage, honor, and fortitude to support their wives or girlfriends and children as thou has ordained. May their Hearts remember their commitments in the Grand Counsel.
Please, please, please Father, forgive those Daughters who have already done this, to know of thy Love, personally; to receive an answer to their prayers for forgiveness, that they can be filled with knowledge that surpasseth all understanding.
Thank you for the Sacrifice of thy Son and our older Brother, Jesus Christ, and His Atonement. May every knee bow, and tongue confess that Jesus is the Christ. Amen.
DAY 22 - DAILY QUESTION ABOUT GOD'S WORD (WHAT DOES THE BIBLE SAY ABOUT ABORTION?)
June 15
Question: "What does the Bible say about abortion?"
Answer:The Bible never specifically addresses the issue of abortion. However, there are numerous teachings in Scripture that make it abundantly clear what God’s view of abortion is.Jeremiah 1:5tells us that God knows us before He forms us in the womb.Psalm 139:13-16speaks of God’s active role in our creation and formation in the womb.Exodus 21:22-25prescribes the same penalty—death—for someone who causes the death of a baby in the womb as for someone who commits murder. This clearly indicates that God considers a baby in the womb to be as human as a full-grown adult. For the Christian, abortion is not a matter of a woman’s right to choose. It is a matter of the life or death of a human being made in God’s image (Genesis 1:26-27;9:6).
The first argument that always arises against the Christian stance on abortion is “What about cases of rape and/or incest?” As horrible as it would be to become pregnant as a result of rape and/or incest, is the murder of a baby the answer? Two wrongs do not make a right. The child who is a result of rape/incest could be given in adoption to a loving family unable to have children on their own, or the child could be raised by its mother. Again, the baby is completely innocent and should not be punished for the evil acts of its father.
The second argument that usually arises against the Christian stance on abortion is “What about when the life of the mother is at risk?” Honestly, this is the most difficult question to answer on the issue of abortion. First, let’s remember that this situation is the reason behind less than one-tenth of one percent of the abortions done in the world today. Far more women have an abortion for convenience than women who have an abortion to save their own lives. Second, let’s remember that God is a God of miracles. He can preserve the life of a mother and a child despite all the medical odds being against it. Ultimately, though, this question can only be decided between a husband, wife, and God. Any couple facing this extremely difficult situation should pray to the Lord for wisdom (James 1:5) as to what He would have them to do.
Over 95 percent of the abortions performed today involve women who simply do not want to have a baby. Less than 5 percent of abortions are for the reasons of rape, incest, or the mother's health at risk. Even in the more difficult 5 percent of instances, abortion should never be the first option. The life of a human being in the womb is worth every effort to allow the child to be born.
For those who have had an abortion, remember that the sin of abortion is no less forgivable than any other sin. Through faith in Christ, all sins can be forgiven (John 3:16;Romans 8:1;Colossians 1:14). A woman who has had an abortion, a man who has encouraged an abortion, or even a doctor who has performed one—can all be forgiven by faith in Jesus Christ.
Recommended Resources:Logos Bible SoftwareandThe Case for Life: Equipping Christians to Engage the Culture by Scott Klusendorf.
While he is not the author of every article on GotQuestions.org, for citation purposes, you may reference our CEO, S. Michael Houdmann.
Read more:http://www.gotquestions.org/abortion-Bible.html#ixzz2WRBRFIi2
Question: "What does the Bible say about abortion?"
Answer:The Bible never specifically addresses the issue of abortion. However, there are numerous teachings in Scripture that make it abundantly clear what God’s view of abortion is.Jeremiah 1:5tells us that God knows us before He forms us in the womb.Psalm 139:13-16speaks of God’s active role in our creation and formation in the womb.Exodus 21:22-25prescribes the same penalty—death—for someone who causes the death of a baby in the womb as for someone who commits murder. This clearly indicates that God considers a baby in the womb to be as human as a full-grown adult. For the Christian, abortion is not a matter of a woman’s right to choose. It is a matter of the life or death of a human being made in God’s image (Genesis 1:26-27;9:6).
The first argument that always arises against the Christian stance on abortion is “What about cases of rape and/or incest?” As horrible as it would be to become pregnant as a result of rape and/or incest, is the murder of a baby the answer? Two wrongs do not make a right. The child who is a result of rape/incest could be given in adoption to a loving family unable to have children on their own, or the child could be raised by its mother. Again, the baby is completely innocent and should not be punished for the evil acts of its father.
The second argument that usually arises against the Christian stance on abortion is “What about when the life of the mother is at risk?” Honestly, this is the most difficult question to answer on the issue of abortion. First, let’s remember that this situation is the reason behind less than one-tenth of one percent of the abortions done in the world today. Far more women have an abortion for convenience than women who have an abortion to save their own lives. Second, let’s remember that God is a God of miracles. He can preserve the life of a mother and a child despite all the medical odds being against it. Ultimately, though, this question can only be decided between a husband, wife, and God. Any couple facing this extremely difficult situation should pray to the Lord for wisdom (James 1:5) as to what He would have them to do.
Over 95 percent of the abortions performed today involve women who simply do not want to have a baby. Less than 5 percent of abortions are for the reasons of rape, incest, or the mother's health at risk. Even in the more difficult 5 percent of instances, abortion should never be the first option. The life of a human being in the womb is worth every effort to allow the child to be born.
For those who have had an abortion, remember that the sin of abortion is no less forgivable than any other sin. Through faith in Christ, all sins can be forgiven (John 3:16;Romans 8:1;Colossians 1:14). A woman who has had an abortion, a man who has encouraged an abortion, or even a doctor who has performed one—can all be forgiven by faith in Jesus Christ.
Recommended Resources:Logos Bible SoftwareandThe Case for Life: Equipping Christians to Engage the Culture by Scott Klusendorf.
While he is not the author of every article on GotQuestions.org, for citation purposes, you may reference our CEO, S. Michael Houdmann.
Read more:http://www.gotquestions.org/abortion-Bible.html#ixzz2WRBRFIi2
DAY 22 - DAILY HISTORY - AMERICAN MINUTE FOR JUNE 15, 2013
June 15
American Minute for June 15th:
Download MP3
England was invaded by Vikings from Scandinavia, called 'Danes, who destroyed churches, libraries and defeated all opposition, except 23-year-old King Alfred.
Forced into the swampy, tidal marshes of Somerset, Alfred, King of the Anglos and Saxons, began a resistance in 878 AD.
According to biographer Bishop Asser, 'Alfred attacked the whole pagan army fighting ferociously in dense order, and by divine will eventually won the victory."
Alfred drove the Danes back to England's coastal area of East Anglia, where he gave their King Guthrum the choice of sailing back to Scandinavia, or converting to Christianity, which he did.
Afterwards, King Alfred the Great wrote his Law Code, drawing from as far back in history as:
Lucius King of Britons (c156 AD) "prayed and entreated...he might be made a Christian";
St. Patrick's Celtic 'Senchus Mor' Laws (c438 AD);
Laws of Æthelberht of Kent (c602 AD)-the first Saxon king in England to be baptized, by St. Augustine of Canterbury;
Laws of Christian King Ine of Wessex (c694 AD), and
Laws of Christian King Offa of Mercia (c755 AD).
King Alfred the Great, who began the University of Oxford, wrote in the preface to his Law Code the Ten Commandments, parts of the Book of Exodus, Christ's Sermon on the Mount, and the Acts of the Apostles.
King Alfred wrote:
"These are judgments which Almighty God Himself spoke to Moses and commanded him to keep.
Now, since the Lord's only begotten Son our God and healing Christ has come to Middle Earth [the Mediterranean World] He said that He did not come to break nor to forbid these commandments but to approve them well, and to teach them with all mildheartedness and lowlymindedness."
King Alfred's Law is considered the basis for English Common Law as it contained concepts such as liberty of the individual family and church, a decentralized government and equal justice for all under the law:
"Doom very evenly! Do not doom one doom to the rich; another to the poor! Nor doom one doom to your friend; another to your foe!"
Around the year 911 AD, on the opposite side of the English Channel, 'Norse' Vikings, called 'Normans', invaded an area that came to be called Normandy, in northern France.
In 1066, the Norman King, William the Conqueror, crossed the English Channel and invaded England.
He replaced King Alfred's law with a feudal system of government which concentrated power into the hands of the king.
This continued in England till a change began with the Magna Carta.
While England's King Richard the Lionheart was away fighting the Muslims in the Third Crusade, his brother John was left in charge.
Some renditions of the legend of Robinhood are set in this time period.
Richard returned in 1192, but died in 1199, leaving King John to rule.
Though the Normans had originally come from Normandy over a century earlier, King John lost Normandy and almost all the other English possessions to King Philip II of France by 1205.
England's barons became so frustrated by this loss and by the absolute and arbitrary power of King John that they surrounded King John on the plains of Runnymede.
There they forced him to sign the Magna Carta, the Great Charter of English Liberties on JUNE 15, 1215.
British judge, Lord Denning, described the Magna Carta as "the greatest constitutional document of all times - the foundation of the freedom of the individual against the arbitrary authority of the despot."
The Magna Carta limited the unbridled centralized power of the king.
It began the process of redefining government's purpose from dominating people's lives into guaranteeing people's individual rights under the rule of law, culminating in the U.S. Constitution.
The Magna Carta ends:
"...for the salvation of our souls, and the souls of all our...heirs, and unto the honor of God."
___
To learn more about Richard the Lionheart and the Third Crusade, read below:
Jerusalem had been a Jewish city since time of King David around 1000 BC, and it had been a Christian city since Emperor Constantine, 313 AD.
Muslims under Caliph Umar took Jerusalem away from the Byzantine Patriarch Sophronius and forced Christian and Jewish inhabitants to live as second-class citizens under a set of "Jim Crow" style laws called "dhimmi."
Christian pilgrims began to be harassed, massacred and crucified. In the 700's, Christians were banned from giving religious instruction to their children and displays of the cross were banned in Jerusalem.
In 772 AD, Caliph al Mansur ordered Jews and Christians to be branded on the hand.
In 923 AD, Muslims began destroying churches in Jerusalem. On Palm Sunday in 937 AD, Muslims plundered the Church of Calvary and the Church of the Resurrection.
In 1004, Fatimid Caliph al-Hakim bi-Amr Allah began a ten year persecution where thousands were forced to convert or die and 30,000 churches were destroyed. In 1009, Caliph al-Hakim destroyed the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem.
In 1075, the Muslim Seljuk Turks captured Jerusalem from Arab Muslims. Gregory Bar-Hebraeus (1226-1286), a Syrian Orthodox Church leader, wrote how Seljuk Turkish Muslims initially tolerated Christians tolerably, then:
"...having seen very much modesty and other habits of this kind among Christian people, certainly the Mongols loved them greatly at the beginning of their kingdom, a time ago somewhat short. But their love hath turned to such intense hatred."
Travelers returning from pilgrimages to the Holy Land shared reports of Muslim persecution of "dhimmi" Christians.
Syria, Lebanon, Palestine and Egypt, which had all been Christian lands, were conquered by Muslims, who then conquered Sicily.
In 1057, the Norman adventurer Robert Guiscard took control of Calabria in the "toe of Italy" and fought against the Muslims of Sicily.
Italian city-states of Pisa, Genoa and Catalonia fought the Muslims who were raiding Italy's coasts, Majorca, Sardinia, and Catalonia.
In 1071, the Muslims inflicted a major defeat on the Byzantine Christians at the Battle of Manzikert and took control of all but the coastlands of Asia Minor.
Cries begging for help were carried back to Europe. Europe sent help, it was called the Crusades. There were nine major Crusades and numerous minor ones, from 1095 till 1291, when Acre was finally captured by the Muslims.
The First Crusade began when, in desperation, the proud Byzantine Emperor Alexius I Comnenus humbled himself and sent ambassadors to the Council of Piacenza in March of 1095, appealing for aid from his religious rival, the Roman Catholic Pope.
The seriousness of this call for help is underscored by the fact that it occurred just a few years after the Great East-West Schism where the Byzantine Church and the Roman Catholic Church split.
Pope Urban II gave an impassioned plea at the Council of Clermont in 1095 for Western leaders to set aside their doctrinal differences and come to the aid of their Byzantine Christians brethren.
Pope Urban II described how Muslims "compel to extend their necks and then, attacking them with naked swords, attempt to cut through the neck with a single blow." (Robert the Monk, Medieval Sourcebook, Fordham University.)
With Spain exuberant after successfully driving the Muslims from Toledo and Leon a few years earlier, the First Crusade began in 1097, led by Godfrey of Bouillon. It freed Iconium from the Muslims, though it was later lost.
The First Crusade defeated Turkish forces at Dorylaeum and Antioch, and captured Jerusalem in 1099, holding it for nearly 100 years.
After Muslims conquered Edessa, another crusade was called for by Bernard of Clairvaux in 1147. It was made up of French and German armies, led by King Louis VII and Conrad II.
In 1148, Muslim leader, Nur ed-Din, slaughtered every Christian in Aleppo. The Second Crusade failed to take Damascus and returned to Europe in 1150. Bernard of Clairvaux was disturbed by reports of misdirected violence toward some Jewish populations.
On July 4, 1187, Saladin captured Crusaders at Hattim and ordered their mass execution.
In 1190, Pope Gregory VIII called for a Third Crusade. It was led by German King Frederick I, called Frederick Barbarossa (meaning Redbeard), who was the Emperor of the Holy Roman Empire. He was joined by Richard I of England and Philip II of France.
Frederick led 100,000 soldiers across Byzantium, driving out Muslims and temporarily freeing Iconium.
He most likely would have freed Jerusalem had he not fallen off his horse while crossing the Göksu River in Cilicia, Asia Minor. Being 67 years old and weighted down with heavy armor, he drowned in waist deep water and the Crusade went into confusion.
Richard the Lionheart was suddenly in charge leading the Crusade and successfully captured Acre. Due to rivalries, Philip II, without warning, abandoned the Crusade and returned to France in 1191.
Richard's troops came within sight of Jerusalem in 1192, but grew weary as it did not look like they were making an impact. Then word came to Richard that Phillip II was trying to take away Normandy from England, so Richard quickly ended the Crusade to go back and defend his kingdom.
Richard later discovered Saladin was on the verge of defeat and was propping up dead soldiers along the walls.
Saladin allowed some Christians to leave Jerusalem if they paid a ransom, but according to Imad al-Din, approximately 15,000 could not pay their ransom and were enslaved.
Richard sailed away, but was shipwrecked and had to travel on foot across Europe in disguise.
He was recognized near Vienna and captured by Duke Leopold V of Austria. The Holy Roman Emperor, Henry VI, imprisoned Richard at Dumstein for three years.
Legend has it that Richard's loyal minstrel, Blondel, traveled from kingdom to kingdom across Europe trying to find him by singing Richard's favorite song. When Richard heard the song, he sang the second verse from the prison tower, and was found.
Richard's brother, King John, had to raise taxes for the "king's ransom." This was the origins of the story of Nottingham, Sherwood Forest and Robin Hood.
The Holy Roman Emperor, Henry VI, prepared for another crusade in 1197, but died from malaria.
Once back in England, Richard ruled only a few years before being shot with an arrow during the siege of a castle in Normandy.
His brother, King John, raised taxes and ruled oppressively.
When he lost Britain's claim to Normandy after the Battle of Bouvines in 1214, English baron's were upset, as they also lost their titled lands there.
Angry barons then surrounded King John on the plains of Runnymede on JUNE 15, 1215, and forced him to sign the Magna Carta - the cornerstone of English liberty.
Show Endnotes
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American Minute for June 15th:
Download MP3
England was invaded by Vikings from Scandinavia, called 'Danes, who destroyed churches, libraries and defeated all opposition, except 23-year-old King Alfred.
Forced into the swampy, tidal marshes of Somerset, Alfred, King of the Anglos and Saxons, began a resistance in 878 AD.
According to biographer Bishop Asser, 'Alfred attacked the whole pagan army fighting ferociously in dense order, and by divine will eventually won the victory."
Alfred drove the Danes back to England's coastal area of East Anglia, where he gave their King Guthrum the choice of sailing back to Scandinavia, or converting to Christianity, which he did.
Afterwards, King Alfred the Great wrote his Law Code, drawing from as far back in history as:
Lucius King of Britons (c156 AD) "prayed and entreated...he might be made a Christian";
St. Patrick's Celtic 'Senchus Mor' Laws (c438 AD);
Laws of Æthelberht of Kent (c602 AD)-the first Saxon king in England to be baptized, by St. Augustine of Canterbury;
Laws of Christian King Ine of Wessex (c694 AD), and
Laws of Christian King Offa of Mercia (c755 AD).
King Alfred the Great, who began the University of Oxford, wrote in the preface to his Law Code the Ten Commandments, parts of the Book of Exodus, Christ's Sermon on the Mount, and the Acts of the Apostles.
King Alfred wrote:
"These are judgments which Almighty God Himself spoke to Moses and commanded him to keep.
Now, since the Lord's only begotten Son our God and healing Christ has come to Middle Earth [the Mediterranean World] He said that He did not come to break nor to forbid these commandments but to approve them well, and to teach them with all mildheartedness and lowlymindedness."
King Alfred's Law is considered the basis for English Common Law as it contained concepts such as liberty of the individual family and church, a decentralized government and equal justice for all under the law:
"Doom very evenly! Do not doom one doom to the rich; another to the poor! Nor doom one doom to your friend; another to your foe!"
Around the year 911 AD, on the opposite side of the English Channel, 'Norse' Vikings, called 'Normans', invaded an area that came to be called Normandy, in northern France.
In 1066, the Norman King, William the Conqueror, crossed the English Channel and invaded England.
He replaced King Alfred's law with a feudal system of government which concentrated power into the hands of the king.
This continued in England till a change began with the Magna Carta.
While England's King Richard the Lionheart was away fighting the Muslims in the Third Crusade, his brother John was left in charge.
Some renditions of the legend of Robinhood are set in this time period.
Richard returned in 1192, but died in 1199, leaving King John to rule.
Though the Normans had originally come from Normandy over a century earlier, King John lost Normandy and almost all the other English possessions to King Philip II of France by 1205.
England's barons became so frustrated by this loss and by the absolute and arbitrary power of King John that they surrounded King John on the plains of Runnymede.
There they forced him to sign the Magna Carta, the Great Charter of English Liberties on JUNE 15, 1215.
British judge, Lord Denning, described the Magna Carta as "the greatest constitutional document of all times - the foundation of the freedom of the individual against the arbitrary authority of the despot."
The Magna Carta limited the unbridled centralized power of the king.
It began the process of redefining government's purpose from dominating people's lives into guaranteeing people's individual rights under the rule of law, culminating in the U.S. Constitution.
The Magna Carta ends:
"...for the salvation of our souls, and the souls of all our...heirs, and unto the honor of God."
___
To learn more about Richard the Lionheart and the Third Crusade, read below:
Jerusalem had been a Jewish city since time of King David around 1000 BC, and it had been a Christian city since Emperor Constantine, 313 AD.
Muslims under Caliph Umar took Jerusalem away from the Byzantine Patriarch Sophronius and forced Christian and Jewish inhabitants to live as second-class citizens under a set of "Jim Crow" style laws called "dhimmi."
Christian pilgrims began to be harassed, massacred and crucified. In the 700's, Christians were banned from giving religious instruction to their children and displays of the cross were banned in Jerusalem.
In 772 AD, Caliph al Mansur ordered Jews and Christians to be branded on the hand.
In 923 AD, Muslims began destroying churches in Jerusalem. On Palm Sunday in 937 AD, Muslims plundered the Church of Calvary and the Church of the Resurrection.
In 1004, Fatimid Caliph al-Hakim bi-Amr Allah began a ten year persecution where thousands were forced to convert or die and 30,000 churches were destroyed. In 1009, Caliph al-Hakim destroyed the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem.
In 1075, the Muslim Seljuk Turks captured Jerusalem from Arab Muslims. Gregory Bar-Hebraeus (1226-1286), a Syrian Orthodox Church leader, wrote how Seljuk Turkish Muslims initially tolerated Christians tolerably, then:
"...having seen very much modesty and other habits of this kind among Christian people, certainly the Mongols loved them greatly at the beginning of their kingdom, a time ago somewhat short. But their love hath turned to such intense hatred."
Travelers returning from pilgrimages to the Holy Land shared reports of Muslim persecution of "dhimmi" Christians.
Syria, Lebanon, Palestine and Egypt, which had all been Christian lands, were conquered by Muslims, who then conquered Sicily.
In 1057, the Norman adventurer Robert Guiscard took control of Calabria in the "toe of Italy" and fought against the Muslims of Sicily.
Italian city-states of Pisa, Genoa and Catalonia fought the Muslims who were raiding Italy's coasts, Majorca, Sardinia, and Catalonia.
In 1071, the Muslims inflicted a major defeat on the Byzantine Christians at the Battle of Manzikert and took control of all but the coastlands of Asia Minor.
Cries begging for help were carried back to Europe. Europe sent help, it was called the Crusades. There were nine major Crusades and numerous minor ones, from 1095 till 1291, when Acre was finally captured by the Muslims.
The First Crusade began when, in desperation, the proud Byzantine Emperor Alexius I Comnenus humbled himself and sent ambassadors to the Council of Piacenza in March of 1095, appealing for aid from his religious rival, the Roman Catholic Pope.
The seriousness of this call for help is underscored by the fact that it occurred just a few years after the Great East-West Schism where the Byzantine Church and the Roman Catholic Church split.
Pope Urban II gave an impassioned plea at the Council of Clermont in 1095 for Western leaders to set aside their doctrinal differences and come to the aid of their Byzantine Christians brethren.
Pope Urban II described how Muslims "compel to extend their necks and then, attacking them with naked swords, attempt to cut through the neck with a single blow." (Robert the Monk, Medieval Sourcebook, Fordham University.)
With Spain exuberant after successfully driving the Muslims from Toledo and Leon a few years earlier, the First Crusade began in 1097, led by Godfrey of Bouillon. It freed Iconium from the Muslims, though it was later lost.
The First Crusade defeated Turkish forces at Dorylaeum and Antioch, and captured Jerusalem in 1099, holding it for nearly 100 years.
After Muslims conquered Edessa, another crusade was called for by Bernard of Clairvaux in 1147. It was made up of French and German armies, led by King Louis VII and Conrad II.
In 1148, Muslim leader, Nur ed-Din, slaughtered every Christian in Aleppo. The Second Crusade failed to take Damascus and returned to Europe in 1150. Bernard of Clairvaux was disturbed by reports of misdirected violence toward some Jewish populations.
On July 4, 1187, Saladin captured Crusaders at Hattim and ordered their mass execution.
In 1190, Pope Gregory VIII called for a Third Crusade. It was led by German King Frederick I, called Frederick Barbarossa (meaning Redbeard), who was the Emperor of the Holy Roman Empire. He was joined by Richard I of England and Philip II of France.
Frederick led 100,000 soldiers across Byzantium, driving out Muslims and temporarily freeing Iconium.
He most likely would have freed Jerusalem had he not fallen off his horse while crossing the Göksu River in Cilicia, Asia Minor. Being 67 years old and weighted down with heavy armor, he drowned in waist deep water and the Crusade went into confusion.
Richard the Lionheart was suddenly in charge leading the Crusade and successfully captured Acre. Due to rivalries, Philip II, without warning, abandoned the Crusade and returned to France in 1191.
Richard's troops came within sight of Jerusalem in 1192, but grew weary as it did not look like they were making an impact. Then word came to Richard that Phillip II was trying to take away Normandy from England, so Richard quickly ended the Crusade to go back and defend his kingdom.
Richard later discovered Saladin was on the verge of defeat and was propping up dead soldiers along the walls.
Saladin allowed some Christians to leave Jerusalem if they paid a ransom, but according to Imad al-Din, approximately 15,000 could not pay their ransom and were enslaved.
Richard sailed away, but was shipwrecked and had to travel on foot across Europe in disguise.
He was recognized near Vienna and captured by Duke Leopold V of Austria. The Holy Roman Emperor, Henry VI, imprisoned Richard at Dumstein for three years.
Legend has it that Richard's loyal minstrel, Blondel, traveled from kingdom to kingdom across Europe trying to find him by singing Richard's favorite song. When Richard heard the song, he sang the second verse from the prison tower, and was found.
Richard's brother, King John, had to raise taxes for the "king's ransom." This was the origins of the story of Nottingham, Sherwood Forest and Robin Hood.
The Holy Roman Emperor, Henry VI, prepared for another crusade in 1197, but died from malaria.
Once back in England, Richard ruled only a few years before being shot with an arrow during the siege of a castle in Normandy.
His brother, King John, raised taxes and ruled oppressively.
When he lost Britain's claim to Normandy after the Battle of Bouvines in 1214, English baron's were upset, as they also lost their titled lands there.
Angry barons then surrounded King John on the plains of Runnymede on JUNE 15, 1215, and forced him to sign the Magna Carta - the cornerstone of English liberty.
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DAY 21 - DAILY BIBLE VERSE (GOD'S HOLY TEMPLE) - JUNE 14, 2013
June 14
1 Corinthians 3:17 (The Voice Bible)
17 If someone comes along to corrupt, vandalize, and destroy the temple of God, you can be sure that God will see to it that he meets destruction because the temple of God is sacred. You, together, are His temple.
1 Corinthians 3:17 (The Voice Bible)
17 If someone comes along to corrupt, vandalize, and destroy the temple of God, you can be sure that God will see to it that he meets destruction because the temple of God is sacred. You, together, are His temple.
DAY 21 - DAILY DEVOTION - JUNE 14, 2013
June 14
He Loves Me
Posted on February 15, 2013 by katherine
Not sure if you ever played the childish game with your friends when you were young where you have a flower & you picked off the petals one by one & as you drop the petals to the ground you say, he loves me, he loves me not until you run out of petals, and then you see if He really loves you.
Well, He(God) Really Loves You, so you can stop playing those silly games & realize you are loved beyond description!!
You don’t need anyone to tell you- you are loved! You have a Holy Bible that tells you all throughout it how much you are loved! OH, HOW HE LOVES YOU!!
“For God so loved (put your name here) that He gave his only begotten son, so that everyone who believes in Him shall not die but have eternal life.” John 3:16
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He Loves Me
Posted on February 15, 2013 by katherine
Not sure if you ever played the childish game with your friends when you were young where you have a flower & you picked off the petals one by one & as you drop the petals to the ground you say, he loves me, he loves me not until you run out of petals, and then you see if He really loves you.
Well, He(God) Really Loves You, so you can stop playing those silly games & realize you are loved beyond description!!
You don’t need anyone to tell you- you are loved! You have a Holy Bible that tells you all throughout it how much you are loved! OH, HOW HE LOVES YOU!!
“For God so loved (put your name here) that He gave his only begotten son, so that everyone who believes in Him shall not die but have eternal life.” John 3:16
inShare
This entry was posted in Uncategorized. Bookmark the permalink.
http://dailyliveworship.com/blog/he-loves-me/
DAY 21 - DAILY PRAYER (SUICIDE) - JUNE 14, 2013
June 14
For Those Contemplating Suicide
Most loving and forgiving God,
hear our prayers for all
who seek to end their life
by their own hand.
The despair is too great,
the loneliness is unbearable,
the inability to share
thoughts and feelings overwhelming,
the seeming lack of options a dead end.
Bless them with the strength of love
to meet each day with new courage;
friendships to bring moments of joy
in their days of anguish;
and hope for the future.
Amen.
For Those Contemplating Suicide
Most loving and forgiving God,
hear our prayers for all
who seek to end their life
by their own hand.
The despair is too great,
the loneliness is unbearable,
the inability to share
thoughts and feelings overwhelming,
the seeming lack of options a dead end.
Bless them with the strength of love
to meet each day with new courage;
friendships to bring moments of joy
in their days of anguish;
and hope for the future.
Amen.
DAY 21 - DAILY QUESTION ABOUT GOD'S WORD (WHY SHOULD I NOT COMMIT SUICIDE?)
June 14
Question: "Why should I not commit suicide?"
Answer:Our hearts go out to those who have thoughts of ending their own lives through suicide. If that is you right now, it may speak of many emotions, such as feelings of hopelessness and despair. You may feel like you are in the deepest pit, and you doubt there is any hope of things getting better. No one seems to care or understand where you are coming from. Life just is not worth living...or is it?
If you will take a few moments to consider letting God truly be God in your life right now, He will prove how big He really is, “for nothing is impossible with God” (Luke 1:37). Perhaps scars from past hurts have resulted in an overwhelming sense of rejection or abandonment. That may lead to self-pity, anger, bitterness, vengeful thoughts, or unhealthy fears that have caused problems in some of your most important relationships.
Why should you not commit suicide? Friend, no matter how bad things are in your life, there is a God of love who is waiting for you to let Him guide you through your tunnel of despair and out into His marvelous light. He is your sure hope. His name is Jesus.
This Jesus, the sinless Son of God, identifies with you in your time of rejection and humiliation. The prophet Isaiah wrote of Him inIsaiah 53:2-6, describing Him as a man who was “despised and rejected” by everyone. His life was full of sorrow and suffering. But the sorrows He bore were not His own; they were ours. He was pierced, wounded, and crushed, all because of our sin. Because of His suffering, our lives can be redeemed and made whole.
Friend, Jesus Christ endured all this so that you might have all your sins forgiven. Whatever weight of guilt you carry, know that He will forgive you if you humbly receive Him as your Savior. “...Call upon me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you...” (Psalm 50:15). Nothing you have ever done is too bad for Jesus to forgive. Some of His choicest servants committed gross sins like murder (Moses), murder and adultery (King David), and physical and emotional abuse (the apostle Paul). Yet they found forgiveness and a new abundant life in the Lord. “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!” (2 Corinthians 5:17).
Why should you not commit suicide? Friend, God stands ready to repair what is “broken,” namely, the life you have now, the life you want to end by suicide. InIsaiah 61:1-3, the prophet wrote, “The LORD has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor…to comfort all who mourn, and provide for those who grieve…to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair.”
Come to Jesus, and let Him restore your joy and usefulness as you trust Him to begin a new work in your life. He promises to restore the joy you have lost and give you a new spirit to sustain you. Your broken heart is precious to Him: “The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise” (Psalm 51:12,15-17).
Will you accept the Lord as your Savior and Shepherd? He will guide your thoughts and steps—one day at a time—through His Word, the Bible. “I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you and watch over you” (Psalm 32:8). “He will be the sure foundation for your times, a rich store of salvation and wisdom and knowledge; the fear of the LORD is the key to this treasure” (Isaiah 33:6). In Christ, you will still have struggles, but you will now have hope. He is “a friend who sticks closer than a brother” (Proverbs 18:24). May the grace of the Lord Jesus be with you in your hour of decision.
If you desire to trust Jesus Christ as your Savior, speak these words in your heart to God: “God, I need you in my life. Please forgive me for all that I have done. I place my faith in Jesus Christ and believe that He is my Savior. Please cleanse me, heal me, and restore my joy in life. Thank You for Your love for me and for Jesus' death on my behalf.”
If you have any questions, please use the question form on ourBible Questions Answeredpage.
While he is not the author of every article on GotQuestions.org, for citation purposes, you may reference our CEO, S. Michael Houdmann.
Read more:http://www.gotquestions.org/why-not-commit-suicide.html#ixzz2WR38kUeW
Question: "Why should I not commit suicide?"
Answer:Our hearts go out to those who have thoughts of ending their own lives through suicide. If that is you right now, it may speak of many emotions, such as feelings of hopelessness and despair. You may feel like you are in the deepest pit, and you doubt there is any hope of things getting better. No one seems to care or understand where you are coming from. Life just is not worth living...or is it?
If you will take a few moments to consider letting God truly be God in your life right now, He will prove how big He really is, “for nothing is impossible with God” (Luke 1:37). Perhaps scars from past hurts have resulted in an overwhelming sense of rejection or abandonment. That may lead to self-pity, anger, bitterness, vengeful thoughts, or unhealthy fears that have caused problems in some of your most important relationships.
Why should you not commit suicide? Friend, no matter how bad things are in your life, there is a God of love who is waiting for you to let Him guide you through your tunnel of despair and out into His marvelous light. He is your sure hope. His name is Jesus.
This Jesus, the sinless Son of God, identifies with you in your time of rejection and humiliation. The prophet Isaiah wrote of Him inIsaiah 53:2-6, describing Him as a man who was “despised and rejected” by everyone. His life was full of sorrow and suffering. But the sorrows He bore were not His own; they were ours. He was pierced, wounded, and crushed, all because of our sin. Because of His suffering, our lives can be redeemed and made whole.
Friend, Jesus Christ endured all this so that you might have all your sins forgiven. Whatever weight of guilt you carry, know that He will forgive you if you humbly receive Him as your Savior. “...Call upon me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you...” (Psalm 50:15). Nothing you have ever done is too bad for Jesus to forgive. Some of His choicest servants committed gross sins like murder (Moses), murder and adultery (King David), and physical and emotional abuse (the apostle Paul). Yet they found forgiveness and a new abundant life in the Lord. “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!” (2 Corinthians 5:17).
Why should you not commit suicide? Friend, God stands ready to repair what is “broken,” namely, the life you have now, the life you want to end by suicide. InIsaiah 61:1-3, the prophet wrote, “The LORD has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor…to comfort all who mourn, and provide for those who grieve…to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair.”
Come to Jesus, and let Him restore your joy and usefulness as you trust Him to begin a new work in your life. He promises to restore the joy you have lost and give you a new spirit to sustain you. Your broken heart is precious to Him: “The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise” (Psalm 51:12,15-17).
Will you accept the Lord as your Savior and Shepherd? He will guide your thoughts and steps—one day at a time—through His Word, the Bible. “I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you and watch over you” (Psalm 32:8). “He will be the sure foundation for your times, a rich store of salvation and wisdom and knowledge; the fear of the LORD is the key to this treasure” (Isaiah 33:6). In Christ, you will still have struggles, but you will now have hope. He is “a friend who sticks closer than a brother” (Proverbs 18:24). May the grace of the Lord Jesus be with you in your hour of decision.
If you desire to trust Jesus Christ as your Savior, speak these words in your heart to God: “God, I need you in my life. Please forgive me for all that I have done. I place my faith in Jesus Christ and believe that He is my Savior. Please cleanse me, heal me, and restore my joy in life. Thank You for Your love for me and for Jesus' death on my behalf.”
If you have any questions, please use the question form on ourBible Questions Answeredpage.
While he is not the author of every article on GotQuestions.org, for citation purposes, you may reference our CEO, S. Michael Houdmann.
Read more:http://www.gotquestions.org/why-not-commit-suicide.html#ixzz2WR38kUeW
DAY 21 - DAILY HISTORY - AMERICAN MINUTE FOR JUNE 14, 2013
June 14
American Minute for June 14th:
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Thirteen Stars and Thirteen Stripes.
It was on JUNE 14, 1777, that the Second Continental Congress selected the Flag of the United States.
In 1916, Woodrow Wilson signed the Proclamation making JUNE 14 "National Flag Day."
On Flag Day, 1942, Franklin D. Roosevelt stated:
"The belief in man, created free, in the image of God - is the crucial difference between ourselves and the enemies we face...
God of the free...grant us victory over the tyrants who would enslave all free men."
On JUNE 14, 1954, Dwight Eisenhower signed Joint Resolution (Public Law 396) adding the phrase "One Nation Under God" to the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.
Eisenhower stated:
"From this day forward, the millions of our school children will daily proclaim in every city and town, every village and rural school house, the dedication of our nation and our people to the Almighty.
To anyone who truly loves America, nothing could be more inspiring than...this rededication of our youth, on each school morning, to our country's true meaning."
President Eisenhower ended:
"In this way we are reaffirming the transcendence of religious faith in America's heritage and future; in this way we shall constantly strengthen those spiritual weapons which forever will be our country's most powerful resource, in peace or in war."
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American Minute for June 14th:
Download MP3
Thirteen Stars and Thirteen Stripes.
It was on JUNE 14, 1777, that the Second Continental Congress selected the Flag of the United States.
In 1916, Woodrow Wilson signed the Proclamation making JUNE 14 "National Flag Day."
On Flag Day, 1942, Franklin D. Roosevelt stated:
"The belief in man, created free, in the image of God - is the crucial difference between ourselves and the enemies we face...
God of the free...grant us victory over the tyrants who would enslave all free men."
On JUNE 14, 1954, Dwight Eisenhower signed Joint Resolution (Public Law 396) adding the phrase "One Nation Under God" to the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.
Eisenhower stated:
"From this day forward, the millions of our school children will daily proclaim in every city and town, every village and rural school house, the dedication of our nation and our people to the Almighty.
To anyone who truly loves America, nothing could be more inspiring than...this rededication of our youth, on each school morning, to our country's true meaning."
President Eisenhower ended:
"In this way we are reaffirming the transcendence of religious faith in America's heritage and future; in this way we shall constantly strengthen those spiritual weapons which forever will be our country's most powerful resource, in peace or in war."
Show Endnotes
(Brought to you by AmericanMinute.com)
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DAY 20 - DAILY BIBLE VERSE (THE WORD OF TRUTH) - JUNE 13, 2013
June 13
Hebrews 13:17 (The Voice Bible)
17 Listen to your leaders and submit to their authority over the community, for they are on constant watch to protect your souls and someday they must give account. Give them reason to be joyful and not to regret their duty, for that will be of no good to you.
Hebrews 13:17 (The Voice Bible)
DAY 20 - DAILY DEVOTION - JUNE 13, 2013
June 13
Testimony Time
Posted on September 21, 2012 by katherine
I had to share this testimony, I hope it reads ok since I am typing so quickly before picking up the girls at school, God said to share this NOW, & when God says NOW, I have learned to obey!!
About a month ago, God spoke to me to buy a friend of mine a new outfit.. I was like, God, is this really you? You know I am a widow with 4 girls & they need clothes & things all the time?
God reminded me of another time last year when God spoke to me to buy a prophet friend of mine a new wardrobe… In my mind, I was really questioning if I had heard from God, I was like God, I am in need, how can I be buying things for others when my girls & I are in need?
He reminded me of the widow woman in the Bible, she gave all she had…
Anyway, back to my prophet friend from last year, God spoke a certain amount of money to me that was very expensive. I want to be real & not to brag on me, but to brag on God. I wasn’t going to tell you the amount because its not really about the amount, its about hearing & listening to His voice & Obeying, but I want to be real here so I think you should know.. it was $1,000 that God told me to spend. Too make a long story short, we only ended up spending $400, which was a miracle of God… Then about 2 weeks later, I received a check for $1,000..
Then, a few days ago, well, actually September 11th I got a text from a friend of the ministry (Daily Live Worship). I hadn’t heard from her in almost a year.. She said, I need to know what your oldest daughter needs I want to bless her. Little did she know, I had been praying that Alyssa would be able to enroll in the driving school so she can get her learners license soon. The fee was going to be a little over $300. The girls had gotten sick & I never got a chance to actually call this lady back to tell her what Alyssa needed. I got the check in the mail yesterday & it was $325!! GLORY TO GOD!!
I say all this to say: You can NEVER out give GOD!! What has God spoken to you to do or to give? I encourage you to trust & obey! He will never let you down. I know people have let you down & maybe you feel like you can’t trust anyone. God is so faithful. I believe when you give out of obedience with a cheerful heart, God can’t help but bless you richly abundantly above what you can ask or think.. Even if He tells you to give all you have- He is a God who can be trusted. Obedience is better than sacrifice! His Word never returns void…
Testimony Time
Posted on September 21, 2012 by katherine
I had to share this testimony, I hope it reads ok since I am typing so quickly before picking up the girls at school, God said to share this NOW, & when God says NOW, I have learned to obey!!
About a month ago, God spoke to me to buy a friend of mine a new outfit.. I was like, God, is this really you? You know I am a widow with 4 girls & they need clothes & things all the time?
God reminded me of another time last year when God spoke to me to buy a prophet friend of mine a new wardrobe… In my mind, I was really questioning if I had heard from God, I was like God, I am in need, how can I be buying things for others when my girls & I are in need?
He reminded me of the widow woman in the Bible, she gave all she had…
Anyway, back to my prophet friend from last year, God spoke a certain amount of money to me that was very expensive. I want to be real & not to brag on me, but to brag on God. I wasn’t going to tell you the amount because its not really about the amount, its about hearing & listening to His voice & Obeying, but I want to be real here so I think you should know.. it was $1,000 that God told me to spend. Too make a long story short, we only ended up spending $400, which was a miracle of God… Then about 2 weeks later, I received a check for $1,000..
Then, a few days ago, well, actually September 11th I got a text from a friend of the ministry (Daily Live Worship). I hadn’t heard from her in almost a year.. She said, I need to know what your oldest daughter needs I want to bless her. Little did she know, I had been praying that Alyssa would be able to enroll in the driving school so she can get her learners license soon. The fee was going to be a little over $300. The girls had gotten sick & I never got a chance to actually call this lady back to tell her what Alyssa needed. I got the check in the mail yesterday & it was $325!! GLORY TO GOD!!
I say all this to say: You can NEVER out give GOD!! What has God spoken to you to do or to give? I encourage you to trust & obey! He will never let you down. I know people have let you down & maybe you feel like you can’t trust anyone. God is so faithful. I believe when you give out of obedience with a cheerful heart, God can’t help but bless you richly abundantly above what you can ask or think.. Even if He tells you to give all you have- He is a God who can be trusted. Obedience is better than sacrifice! His Word never returns void…
DAY 20 - DAILY PRAYER (OBEDIENCE) - JUNE 13, 2013
June 13
Lord, we don’t call you Lord because you were the Lord of our parents. We call you Lord because you are the master of our hearts. We are slaves to your righteousness because your goodness won us over. We are obedient to you because you changed us at the core of who we are.
God, we are not slaves to a list of rules. We are slaves to the love that we feel for you. Bring us to deeper depths of love in our relationship with you. You call us brothers and sisters; you call us friends, Jesus. It’s complicated and yet so simple when it comes down to our need for you. We worship you, Jesus. You are Lord of all, but you are also the Lover of our souls. Our obedience to you and freedom from sin comes naturally when we commit ourselves to making our love for you the focus of our lives. Thank you, Jesus. You are so precious.
Lord, we lift up this anonymous cry for help in prayer. Amen
Lord, we don’t call you Lord because you were the Lord of our parents. We call you Lord because you are the master of our hearts. We are slaves to your righteousness because your goodness won us over. We are obedient to you because you changed us at the core of who we are.
God, we are not slaves to a list of rules. We are slaves to the love that we feel for you. Bring us to deeper depths of love in our relationship with you. You call us brothers and sisters; you call us friends, Jesus. It’s complicated and yet so simple when it comes down to our need for you. We worship you, Jesus. You are Lord of all, but you are also the Lover of our souls. Our obedience to you and freedom from sin comes naturally when we commit ourselves to making our love for you the focus of our lives. Thank you, Jesus. You are so precious.
Lord, we lift up this anonymous cry for help in prayer. Amen
DAY 20 - DAILY QUESTION ABOUT GOD'S WORD (ARE WE SUPPOSED TO OBEY OUR PASTORS?)
June 13
Question: "Are we supposed to obey our pastors?"
Answer: The verse that speaks the most directly to this question is Hebrews 13:17, “Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that is unprofitable for you.”
Pastors are hurt deeply to see people ignore the counsel of God they share in messages or Bible lessons. Some people “blow off” the Word of God, doing so not only to their own hurt but also to the hurt of those who are around them. Young people especially have the tendency to ignore the counsel of those older than they, making the mistake of trusting their own wisdom as well as their own heart. God states that a godly pastor shares precepts from God’s Word because he desires not only to serve God but to feed the flock the spiritual food that will result in their experiencing the abundant life Jesus promised (John 10:10b).
On the other end of the spectrum, the Bible gives warning about “false shepherds” who do not have the welfare of the flock at heart but are more interested in maintaining control or exercising lordship over others, or who fail to study the Word of God and end up teaching men’s commands instead of God’s. The Pharisees were guilty of this during Jesus’ time. There are numerous examples of this in the prophetic books of the Old Testament. And there are repeated warnings about this in Acts, the epistles, and Revelation. Because of the unfortunate existence of these self-seeking leaders, there must also come a time when we disobey man in order to obey God (Acts 4:18-20). However, accusations against a church leader are not to be lightly launched and need to be substantiated by more than one witness (1 Timothy 5:19).
Godly pastors are worth their weight in gold. They are usually overworked and underpaid. They bear greater responsibility than medical doctors asHebrews 13:17states—they must one day give an account of their ministries before God.First Peter 5:1-4points out that they are not dictators, but lead by their example and by their teaching (1 Timothy 4:16) in humility of heart. And like Paul, they are like nursing mothers who truly love their “children” and are willing to give themselves for their flock and rule with gentleness (1 Thessalonians 2:7-12;John 10:11). They are characterized by sincere devotion to the Word and to prayer (Acts 6:4) so that they can rule in God’s power and wisdom and impart to the flock spiritual meat to make them healthy and vibrant Christians (1 Timothy 5:17). If this is a description of your pastor, or close to it (no man on earth is perfect), he is worthy of double honor and obedience as he declares the plain teachings of God.
So the answer to the question is yes, we should obey our pastors. We are also to pray for them always, asking God to grant them wisdom, humility, a love for the flock, and protection as they protect those in their care.
Recommended Resources:Logos Bible SoftwareandBiblical Eldership by Alexander Strauch.
While he is not the author of every article on GotQuestions.org, for citation purposes, you may reference our CEO, S. Michael Houdmann.
Read more:http://www.gotquestions.org/pastors-obey.html#ixzz2WQhHgJ6l
Question: "Are we supposed to obey our pastors?"
Answer: The verse that speaks the most directly to this question is Hebrews 13:17, “Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that is unprofitable for you.”
Pastors are hurt deeply to see people ignore the counsel of God they share in messages or Bible lessons. Some people “blow off” the Word of God, doing so not only to their own hurt but also to the hurt of those who are around them. Young people especially have the tendency to ignore the counsel of those older than they, making the mistake of trusting their own wisdom as well as their own heart. God states that a godly pastor shares precepts from God’s Word because he desires not only to serve God but to feed the flock the spiritual food that will result in their experiencing the abundant life Jesus promised (John 10:10b).
On the other end of the spectrum, the Bible gives warning about “false shepherds” who do not have the welfare of the flock at heart but are more interested in maintaining control or exercising lordship over others, or who fail to study the Word of God and end up teaching men’s commands instead of God’s. The Pharisees were guilty of this during Jesus’ time. There are numerous examples of this in the prophetic books of the Old Testament. And there are repeated warnings about this in Acts, the epistles, and Revelation. Because of the unfortunate existence of these self-seeking leaders, there must also come a time when we disobey man in order to obey God (Acts 4:18-20). However, accusations against a church leader are not to be lightly launched and need to be substantiated by more than one witness (1 Timothy 5:19).
Godly pastors are worth their weight in gold. They are usually overworked and underpaid. They bear greater responsibility than medical doctors asHebrews 13:17states—they must one day give an account of their ministries before God.First Peter 5:1-4points out that they are not dictators, but lead by their example and by their teaching (1 Timothy 4:16) in humility of heart. And like Paul, they are like nursing mothers who truly love their “children” and are willing to give themselves for their flock and rule with gentleness (1 Thessalonians 2:7-12;John 10:11). They are characterized by sincere devotion to the Word and to prayer (Acts 6:4) so that they can rule in God’s power and wisdom and impart to the flock spiritual meat to make them healthy and vibrant Christians (1 Timothy 5:17). If this is a description of your pastor, or close to it (no man on earth is perfect), he is worthy of double honor and obedience as he declares the plain teachings of God.
So the answer to the question is yes, we should obey our pastors. We are also to pray for them always, asking God to grant them wisdom, humility, a love for the flock, and protection as they protect those in their care.
Recommended Resources:Logos Bible SoftwareandBiblical Eldership by Alexander Strauch.
While he is not the author of every article on GotQuestions.org, for citation purposes, you may reference our CEO, S. Michael Houdmann.
Read more:http://www.gotquestions.org/pastors-obey.html#ixzz2WQhHgJ6l
DAY 20 - DAILY HISTORY - AMERICAN MINUTE FOR JUNE 13, 2013
June 13
American Minute for June 13th:
Download MP3
19-year-old Marquis de Lafayette purchased a ship and sailed to America, arriving JUNE 13, 1777.
Trained in the French Military, he was a descendant of one of the oldest French families, with ancestors who fought in the Crusades and alongside of Joan of Arc.
Commander-in-Chief George Washington appointed Lafayette a Major General in the Continental Army, though Lafayette paid his own expenses.
Lafayette endured the freezing winter at Valley Forge, was wounded at Brandywine, and fought with distinction at the Battles of Gloucester, Barren Hill, Monmouth, Rhode Island and Green Spring.
Returning to France, Lafayette worked with Ben Franklin to persuade King Louis XVI to send General Rochambeau with ships and 6,000 French soldiers to America's aid.
Lafayette then led troops against the traitor Benedict Arnold, and commanded at Yorktown, helping to pressure Cornwallis to surrender.
George Washington considered Lafayette like a son, and belatedly wrote back to him from Mount Vernon, June 25, 1785:
"My Dear Marquis...I stand before you as a culprit: but to repent and be forgiven are the precepts of Heaven: I do the former, do you practice the latter, and it will be participation of a divine attribute.
Yet I am not barren of excuses for this seeming inattention; frequent absences from home, a round of company when at it, and the pressure of many matters, might be urged as apologies for my long silence...
I now congratulate you, and my heart does it more effectually than my pen, on your safe arrival in Paris, from your voyage to this Country."
Lafayette joined the French abolitionist Society of the Friends of the Blacks, which advocated the end of the slave trade and equal rights for blacks.
On May 10, 1786, George Washington wrote from Mount Vernon to Marquis de Lafayette:
"Your late purchase of an estate in the colony of Cayenne, with a view of emancipating the slaves on it, is a generous and noble proof of your humanity. Would to God a like spirit would diffuse itself generally into the minds of the people of this country."
On August 15, 1787, in a letter from Philadelphia to the Marquis de Lafayette, George Washington wrote:
"I am not less ardent in my wish that you may succeed in your plan of toleration in religious matters. Being no bigot myself to any mode of worship, I am disposed to indulge the professors of Christianity in the church with that road to Heaven which to them shall seem the most direct, plainest and easiest, and the least liable to exception."
On May 28, 1788, George Washington wrote to Marquis de Lafayette regarding the U.S. Constitution:
"A few short weeks will determine the political fate of America...I will confess to you sincerely, my dear Marquis; it will be so much beyond any thing we had a right to imagine or expect eighteen months ago, that it will demonstrate as visibly the Finger of Providence, as any possible event in the course of human affairs can ever designate it."
When the French Revolution began, President Washington wrote to Marquis de Lafayette, July 28, 1791:
"I assure you I have often contemplated, with great anxiety, the danger to which you are personally exposed...
To a philanthropic mind the happiness of 24 millions of people cannot be indifferent; and by an American, whose country in the hour of distress received such liberal aid from the French, the disorders and incertitude of that Nation are to be particularly lamented.
We must, however, place a confidence in that Providence who rules great events, trusting that out of confusion He will produce order, and, notwithstanding the dark clouds which may threaten at present, that right will ultimately be established....
On the 6 of this month I returned from a tour through the southern States, which had employed me for more than three months. In the course of this journey I have been highly gratified in observing the flourishing state of the Country, and the good dispositions of the people.
Industry and economy have become very fashionable in these parts, which were formerly noted for the opposite qualities, and the labors of man are assisted by the Blessings of Providence."
Lafayette tried to maintain order in France as the French Revolution began, but fell out of favor. He was eventually imprisoned for five years, with his wife and two daughters choosing to be imprisoned with him. Napoleon negotiated his release.
On June 10, 1792, from Philadelphia, President Washington wrote to Marquis de Lafayette:
"And to the Care of that Providence, whose interposition and protection we have so often experienced, do I cheerfully commit you and your nation, trusting that He will bring order out of confusion, and finally place things upon the ground on which they ought to stand."
Jefferson asked him to be the Governor of the Louisiana Territory, but he declined.
Fifty years after the Revolution began, Marquis de Lafayette visited America. He traveled over 6,000 miles to 24 States.
On June 17, 1825, the cornerstone for the Bunker Hill Monument was laid. Daniel Webster spoke to a crowd of 20,000, which included General Marquis de Lafayette:
"God has granted you this sight of your country's happiness ere you slumber in the grave forever. He has allowed you to behold and to partake the reward of your patriotic toils; and He has allowed to us, your sons and countrymen, to meet you here, and in the name of the present generation, in the name of your country, in the name of liberty to thank you!"
Many ships, streets, parks and cities were named after him, including Fayetteville, North Carolina.
When word came to America that Marquis de Lafayette had died, President Andrew Jackson wrote to Congress, June 21, 1834:
"The afflicting intelligence of the death of the illustrious Lafayette has been received by me this morning.
I have issued the general order inclosed to cause appropriate honors to be paid by the Army and Navy to the memory of one so highly venerated and beloved by my countrymen, and whom Providence has been pleased to remove so unexpectedly from the agitating scenes of life."
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American Minute for June 13th:
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19-year-old Marquis de Lafayette purchased a ship and sailed to America, arriving JUNE 13, 1777.
Trained in the French Military, he was a descendant of one of the oldest French families, with ancestors who fought in the Crusades and alongside of Joan of Arc.
Commander-in-Chief George Washington appointed Lafayette a Major General in the Continental Army, though Lafayette paid his own expenses.
Lafayette endured the freezing winter at Valley Forge, was wounded at Brandywine, and fought with distinction at the Battles of Gloucester, Barren Hill, Monmouth, Rhode Island and Green Spring.
Returning to France, Lafayette worked with Ben Franklin to persuade King Louis XVI to send General Rochambeau with ships and 6,000 French soldiers to America's aid.
Lafayette then led troops against the traitor Benedict Arnold, and commanded at Yorktown, helping to pressure Cornwallis to surrender.
George Washington considered Lafayette like a son, and belatedly wrote back to him from Mount Vernon, June 25, 1785:
"My Dear Marquis...I stand before you as a culprit: but to repent and be forgiven are the precepts of Heaven: I do the former, do you practice the latter, and it will be participation of a divine attribute.
Yet I am not barren of excuses for this seeming inattention; frequent absences from home, a round of company when at it, and the pressure of many matters, might be urged as apologies for my long silence...
I now congratulate you, and my heart does it more effectually than my pen, on your safe arrival in Paris, from your voyage to this Country."
Lafayette joined the French abolitionist Society of the Friends of the Blacks, which advocated the end of the slave trade and equal rights for blacks.
On May 10, 1786, George Washington wrote from Mount Vernon to Marquis de Lafayette:
"Your late purchase of an estate in the colony of Cayenne, with a view of emancipating the slaves on it, is a generous and noble proof of your humanity. Would to God a like spirit would diffuse itself generally into the minds of the people of this country."
On August 15, 1787, in a letter from Philadelphia to the Marquis de Lafayette, George Washington wrote:
"I am not less ardent in my wish that you may succeed in your plan of toleration in religious matters. Being no bigot myself to any mode of worship, I am disposed to indulge the professors of Christianity in the church with that road to Heaven which to them shall seem the most direct, plainest and easiest, and the least liable to exception."
On May 28, 1788, George Washington wrote to Marquis de Lafayette regarding the U.S. Constitution:
"A few short weeks will determine the political fate of America...I will confess to you sincerely, my dear Marquis; it will be so much beyond any thing we had a right to imagine or expect eighteen months ago, that it will demonstrate as visibly the Finger of Providence, as any possible event in the course of human affairs can ever designate it."
When the French Revolution began, President Washington wrote to Marquis de Lafayette, July 28, 1791:
"I assure you I have often contemplated, with great anxiety, the danger to which you are personally exposed...
To a philanthropic mind the happiness of 24 millions of people cannot be indifferent; and by an American, whose country in the hour of distress received such liberal aid from the French, the disorders and incertitude of that Nation are to be particularly lamented.
We must, however, place a confidence in that Providence who rules great events, trusting that out of confusion He will produce order, and, notwithstanding the dark clouds which may threaten at present, that right will ultimately be established....
On the 6 of this month I returned from a tour through the southern States, which had employed me for more than three months. In the course of this journey I have been highly gratified in observing the flourishing state of the Country, and the good dispositions of the people.
Industry and economy have become very fashionable in these parts, which were formerly noted for the opposite qualities, and the labors of man are assisted by the Blessings of Providence."
Lafayette tried to maintain order in France as the French Revolution began, but fell out of favor. He was eventually imprisoned for five years, with his wife and two daughters choosing to be imprisoned with him. Napoleon negotiated his release.
On June 10, 1792, from Philadelphia, President Washington wrote to Marquis de Lafayette:
"And to the Care of that Providence, whose interposition and protection we have so often experienced, do I cheerfully commit you and your nation, trusting that He will bring order out of confusion, and finally place things upon the ground on which they ought to stand."
Jefferson asked him to be the Governor of the Louisiana Territory, but he declined.
Fifty years after the Revolution began, Marquis de Lafayette visited America. He traveled over 6,000 miles to 24 States.
On June 17, 1825, the cornerstone for the Bunker Hill Monument was laid. Daniel Webster spoke to a crowd of 20,000, which included General Marquis de Lafayette:
"God has granted you this sight of your country's happiness ere you slumber in the grave forever. He has allowed you to behold and to partake the reward of your patriotic toils; and He has allowed to us, your sons and countrymen, to meet you here, and in the name of the present generation, in the name of your country, in the name of liberty to thank you!"
Many ships, streets, parks and cities were named after him, including Fayetteville, North Carolina.
When word came to America that Marquis de Lafayette had died, President Andrew Jackson wrote to Congress, June 21, 1834:
"The afflicting intelligence of the death of the illustrious Lafayette has been received by me this morning.
I have issued the general order inclosed to cause appropriate honors to be paid by the Army and Navy to the memory of one so highly venerated and beloved by my countrymen, and whom Providence has been pleased to remove so unexpectedly from the agitating scenes of life."
Show Endnotes
(Brought to you by AmericanMinute.com)
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DAY 19 - DAILY BIBLE VERSE (THE WORD OF TRUTH) - JUNE 12, 2013
June 12
2 Timothy 2:15 (The Voice Bible)
15 Timothy, do everything you can to present yourself to God as a man who is fully genuine, a worker unashamed of your mission, a guide capable of leading others along the correct path defined by the word of truth.
2 Timothy 2:15 (The Voice Bible)
15 Timothy, do everything you can to present yourself to God as a man who is fully genuine, a worker unashamed of your mission, a guide capable of leading others along the correct path defined by the word of truth.
DAY 19 - DAILY DEVOTION - JUNE 12, 2013
June 12
God Is There
Posted on February 15, 2013 by katherine
As I look at my beautiful purple & white flowers & smell their lovely fragrance, I have to keep in mind that they will die in a few days & be gone… That reminded me of the scripture, “The grass withers, the flower fades, but the Word of our God stands forever.”
Aren’t you thankful that God never deteriorates, dis-appears, tarnishes, vanishes, wastes away, or wilts? He is always there and so is His Word!
God Is There
Posted on February 15, 2013 by katherine
As I look at my beautiful purple & white flowers & smell their lovely fragrance, I have to keep in mind that they will die in a few days & be gone… That reminded me of the scripture, “The grass withers, the flower fades, but the Word of our God stands forever.”
Aren’t you thankful that God never deteriorates, dis-appears, tarnishes, vanishes, wastes away, or wilts? He is always there and so is His Word!
DAY 19 - DAILY PRAYER (YOUR WORD) - JUNE 12, 2013
June 12
O gracious Father in Heaven,
O gracious Father in Heaven,
We thank You today for the provision of Your word, which carries us through this earthly life. For allowing us to know You and Your Son in greater detail. Lord, please continue to make us hungry for Your word, and bold enough to seek You in the scriptures on a daily basis. Illuminate our path daily with Your lamp upon our feet, that the enemy would not succeed in having us leave the straight path set before us. Father, please instill in us the necessary instruction to allow us to lead others to You. Help us to hide Your word in our hearts, and live it out in our lives daily.
In Jesus' mighty name we pray, Amen!
Wally Ziolo
Founder - 40DAYPRAYER4USA
Lancaster, Ohio USA
Wally Ziolo
Founder - 40DAYPRAYER4USA
Lancaster, Ohio USA
DAY 19 - DAILY QUESTION ABOUT GOD'S WORD (WHY SHOULD WE READ THE BIBLE?)
June 12
Question: "Why should we read the Bible / study the Bible?"
Answer:We should read and study the Bible because it is God's Word to us. The Bible is literally "God-breathed" (2 Timothy 3:16). In other words, it is God's very words to us. There are so many questions that philosophers have asked that God answers for us in Scripture. What is the purpose to life? Where did I come from? Is there life after death? How do I get to heaven? Why is the world full of evil? Why do I struggle to do good? In addition to these "big" questions, the Bible gives much practical advice in areas such as: What do I look for in a mate? How can I have a successful marriage? How can I be a good friend? How can I be a good parent? What is success and how do I achieve it? How can I change? What really matters in life? How can I live so that I do not look back with regret? How can I handle the unfair circumstances and bad events of life victoriously?
We should read and study the Bible because it is totally reliable and without error. The Bible is unique among so-called "holy" books in that it does not merely give moral teaching and say, "Trust me." Rather, we have the ability to test it by checking the hundreds of detailed prophecies that it makes, by checking the historical accounts it records, and by checking the scientific facts it relates. Those who say the Bible has errors have their ears closed to the truth. Jesus once asked which is easier to say, "Your sins are forgiven you," or "Rise, take up your bed and walk." Then He proved He had the ability to forgive sins (something we cannot see with our eyes) by healing the paralytic (something those around Him could test with their eyes). Similarly, we are given assurance that God's Word is true when it discusses spiritual areas that we cannot test with our senses by showing itself true in those areas that we can test, such as historical accuracy, scientific accuracy, and prophetic accuracy.
We should read and study the Bible because God does not change and because mankind's nature does not change; it is as relevant for us as it was when it was written. While technology changes, mankind's nature and desires do not change. We find, as we read the pages of biblical history, that whether we are talking about one-on-one relationships or societies, "there is nothing new under the sun" (Ecclesiastes 1:9). And while mankind as a whole continues to seek love and satisfaction in all of the wrong places, God—our good and gracious Creator—tells us what will bring us lasting joy. His revealed Word, the Bible, is so important that Jesus said of it, "Man does not live on bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God" (Matthew 4:4). In other words, if we want to live life to the fullest, as God intended, we must listen to and heed God's written Word.
We should read and study the Bible because there is so much false teaching. The Bible gives us the measuring stick by which we can distinguish truth from error. It tells us what God is like. To have a wrong impression of God is to worship an idol or false god. We are worshiping something that He is not. The Bible tells us how one truly gets to heaven, and it is not by being good or by being baptized or by anything else we do (John 14:6;Ephesians 2:1-10;Isaiah 53:6;Romans 3:10-18,5:8,6:23,10:9-13). Along this line, God's Word shows us just how much God loves us (Romans 5:6-8;John 3:16). And it is in learning this that we are drawn to love Him in return (1 John 4:19).
The Bible equips us to serve God (2 Timothy 3:17;Ephesians 6:17;Hebrews 4:12). It helps us know how to be saved from our sin and its ultimate consequence (2 Timothy 3:15). Meditating on God’s Word and obeying its teachings will bring success in life (Joshua 1:8;James 1:25). God’s Word helps us see sin in our lives and helps us get rid of it (Psalm 119:9,11). It gives us guidance in life, making us wiser than our teachers (Psalm 32:8,119:99;Proverbs 1:6). The Bible keeps us from wasting years of our lives on that which does not matter and will not last (Matthew 7:24-27).
Reading and studying the Bible helps us see beyond the attractive "bait" to the painful "hook" in sinful temptations, so that we can learn from others' mistakes rather than making them ourselves. Experience is a great teacher, but when it comes to learning from sin, it is a terribly hard teacher. It is so much better to learn from others' mistakes. There are so many Bible characters to learn from, some of whom can serve as both positive and negative role models at different times in their lives. For example, David, in his defeat of Goliath, teaches us that God is greater than anything He asks us to face (1 Samuel 17), while his giving in to the temptation to commit adultery with Bathsheba reveals just how long-lasting and terrible the consequences of a moment's sinful pleasure can be (2 Samuel 11).
The Bible is a book that is not merely for reading. It is a book for studying so that it can be applied. Otherwise, it is like swallowing food without chewing and then spitting it back out again—no nutritional value is gained by it. The Bible is God's Word. As such, it is as binding as the laws of nature. We can ignore it, but we do so to our own detriment, just as we would if we ignored the law of gravity. It cannot be emphasized strongly enough just how important the Bible is to our lives. Studying the Bible can be compared to mining for gold. If we make little effort and merely "sift through the pebbles in a stream," we will only find a little gold dust. But the more we make an effort to really dig into it, the more reward we will gain for our effort.
Recommended Resources:Logos Bible SoftwareandRead the Bible in One Year.
While he is not the author of every article on GotQuestions.org, for citation purposes, you may reference our CEO, S. Michael Houdmann.
Read more:http://www.gotquestions.org/why-read-Bible.html#ixzz2WPQtTLYm
Question: "Why should we read the Bible / study the Bible?"
Answer:We should read and study the Bible because it is God's Word to us. The Bible is literally "God-breathed" (2 Timothy 3:16). In other words, it is God's very words to us. There are so many questions that philosophers have asked that God answers for us in Scripture. What is the purpose to life? Where did I come from? Is there life after death? How do I get to heaven? Why is the world full of evil? Why do I struggle to do good? In addition to these "big" questions, the Bible gives much practical advice in areas such as: What do I look for in a mate? How can I have a successful marriage? How can I be a good friend? How can I be a good parent? What is success and how do I achieve it? How can I change? What really matters in life? How can I live so that I do not look back with regret? How can I handle the unfair circumstances and bad events of life victoriously?
We should read and study the Bible because it is totally reliable and without error. The Bible is unique among so-called "holy" books in that it does not merely give moral teaching and say, "Trust me." Rather, we have the ability to test it by checking the hundreds of detailed prophecies that it makes, by checking the historical accounts it records, and by checking the scientific facts it relates. Those who say the Bible has errors have their ears closed to the truth. Jesus once asked which is easier to say, "Your sins are forgiven you," or "Rise, take up your bed and walk." Then He proved He had the ability to forgive sins (something we cannot see with our eyes) by healing the paralytic (something those around Him could test with their eyes). Similarly, we are given assurance that God's Word is true when it discusses spiritual areas that we cannot test with our senses by showing itself true in those areas that we can test, such as historical accuracy, scientific accuracy, and prophetic accuracy.
We should read and study the Bible because God does not change and because mankind's nature does not change; it is as relevant for us as it was when it was written. While technology changes, mankind's nature and desires do not change. We find, as we read the pages of biblical history, that whether we are talking about one-on-one relationships or societies, "there is nothing new under the sun" (Ecclesiastes 1:9). And while mankind as a whole continues to seek love and satisfaction in all of the wrong places, God—our good and gracious Creator—tells us what will bring us lasting joy. His revealed Word, the Bible, is so important that Jesus said of it, "Man does not live on bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God" (Matthew 4:4). In other words, if we want to live life to the fullest, as God intended, we must listen to and heed God's written Word.
We should read and study the Bible because there is so much false teaching. The Bible gives us the measuring stick by which we can distinguish truth from error. It tells us what God is like. To have a wrong impression of God is to worship an idol or false god. We are worshiping something that He is not. The Bible tells us how one truly gets to heaven, and it is not by being good or by being baptized or by anything else we do (John 14:6;Ephesians 2:1-10;Isaiah 53:6;Romans 3:10-18,5:8,6:23,10:9-13). Along this line, God's Word shows us just how much God loves us (Romans 5:6-8;John 3:16). And it is in learning this that we are drawn to love Him in return (1 John 4:19).
The Bible equips us to serve God (2 Timothy 3:17;Ephesians 6:17;Hebrews 4:12). It helps us know how to be saved from our sin and its ultimate consequence (2 Timothy 3:15). Meditating on God’s Word and obeying its teachings will bring success in life (Joshua 1:8;James 1:25). God’s Word helps us see sin in our lives and helps us get rid of it (Psalm 119:9,11). It gives us guidance in life, making us wiser than our teachers (Psalm 32:8,119:99;Proverbs 1:6). The Bible keeps us from wasting years of our lives on that which does not matter and will not last (Matthew 7:24-27).
Reading and studying the Bible helps us see beyond the attractive "bait" to the painful "hook" in sinful temptations, so that we can learn from others' mistakes rather than making them ourselves. Experience is a great teacher, but when it comes to learning from sin, it is a terribly hard teacher. It is so much better to learn from others' mistakes. There are so many Bible characters to learn from, some of whom can serve as both positive and negative role models at different times in their lives. For example, David, in his defeat of Goliath, teaches us that God is greater than anything He asks us to face (1 Samuel 17), while his giving in to the temptation to commit adultery with Bathsheba reveals just how long-lasting and terrible the consequences of a moment's sinful pleasure can be (2 Samuel 11).
The Bible is a book that is not merely for reading. It is a book for studying so that it can be applied. Otherwise, it is like swallowing food without chewing and then spitting it back out again—no nutritional value is gained by it. The Bible is God's Word. As such, it is as binding as the laws of nature. We can ignore it, but we do so to our own detriment, just as we would if we ignored the law of gravity. It cannot be emphasized strongly enough just how important the Bible is to our lives. Studying the Bible can be compared to mining for gold. If we make little effort and merely "sift through the pebbles in a stream," we will only find a little gold dust. But the more we make an effort to really dig into it, the more reward we will gain for our effort.
Recommended Resources:Logos Bible SoftwareandRead the Bible in One Year.
While he is not the author of every article on GotQuestions.org, for citation purposes, you may reference our CEO, S. Michael Houdmann.
Read more:http://www.gotquestions.org/why-read-Bible.html#ixzz2WPQtTLYm
DAY 19 - DAILY HISTORY - AMERICAN MINUTE FOR JUNE 12, 2013
June 12
American Minute for June 12th:
Download MP3
He received the Distinguished Flying Cross for his WWII service in the Pacific.
He studied at Yale, was a Congressman, Ambassador to the U.N., CIA director and Vice-President under Ronald Reagan before becoming the 41st U.S. President.
His name was George H.W. Bush, born JUNE 12, 1924.
George H.W. Bush told Amish and Mennonite leaders in Lancaster, PA, March 22, 1989:
"Barbara and I went to China as your emissary...in 1974, and we had wondered about the family in China - Communist country, totalitarian...
We knew that there had been almost entire banning on practicing and teaching Christianity...This was right after the Cultural Revolution."
In his Inaugural Address, January 20, 1989, President Bush said:
"I have just repeated word for word the oath taken by George Washington 200 years ago, and the Bible on which I place my hand is the Bible on which he placed his...
And my first act as President is a prayer. I ask you to bow your heads..."
On February 22, 1990, President George H.W. Bush signed Joint Resolution 164 declaring 1990 the International Year of Bible Reading:
"Among the great books produced throughout the history of mankind, the Bible has been prized above all others...
The Bible has had a critical impact upon the development of Western civilization...
It was a biblical view of man - one affirming the dignity and worth of the human person, made in the image of our Creator - that inspired the principles upon which the United States is founded...
The historic speeches of Abraham Lincoln and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., provide compelling evidence of the role Scripture played in shaping the struggle against slavery and discrimination...
We recall the words of the prophet Isaiah, who declared, 'The grass withereth, the flower fadeth; but the word of our God shall stand forever.'...
When you have read the Bible you will know that it is the Word of God...
NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE BUSH, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim the year 1990 as the International Year of Bible Reading.
I invite all Americans to discover the great inspiration and knowledge that can be obtained through thoughtful reading of the Bible."
On May 3, 1990, President George Bush declared a National Day of Prayer:
"The great faith that led our Nation's Founding Fathers to pursue this bold experience in self-government has sustained us in uncertain and perilous times...
Like them, we do very well to recall our 'firm reliance on the protection of Divine Providence,'...and to pray for continued help and guidance from our wise and loving Creator."
President George Bush stated in his 1992 National Day of Prayer Proclamation:
"Whatever our individual religious convictions may be, each of us is invited to join in this National Day of Prayer...
Each of us can echo this timeless prayer of Solomon, the ancient king who prayed for, and received, the gift of wisdom:
'The Lord our God be with us, as He was with our fathers; may He not leave us or forsake us; so that He may incline our hearts to Him, to walk in all His ways...that all the peoples of the earth may know that the Lord is God; there is no other.'"
In his Christmas Message, December 8, 1992, President George H.W. Bush stated:
"As we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, whose life offers us a model of dignity, compassion, and justice, we renew our commitment to peace...Christ made clear the redemptive value of giving of oneself for others...
The heroic actions of our veterans, the lifesaving work of our scientists and physicians, and generosity of countless individuals who voluntarily give of their time, talents, and energy to help others - all have enriched humankind and affirmed the importance of our Judeo-Christian heritage in shaping our government and values."
Show Endnotes
(Brought to you by AmericanMinute.com)
Add American Minute on your Website How to use the American Minute RSS feed Post to Facebook Post to Twitter
American Minute for June 12th:
Download MP3
He received the Distinguished Flying Cross for his WWII service in the Pacific.
He studied at Yale, was a Congressman, Ambassador to the U.N., CIA director and Vice-President under Ronald Reagan before becoming the 41st U.S. President.
His name was George H.W. Bush, born JUNE 12, 1924.
George H.W. Bush told Amish and Mennonite leaders in Lancaster, PA, March 22, 1989:
"Barbara and I went to China as your emissary...in 1974, and we had wondered about the family in China - Communist country, totalitarian...
We knew that there had been almost entire banning on practicing and teaching Christianity...This was right after the Cultural Revolution."
In his Inaugural Address, January 20, 1989, President Bush said:
"I have just repeated word for word the oath taken by George Washington 200 years ago, and the Bible on which I place my hand is the Bible on which he placed his...
And my first act as President is a prayer. I ask you to bow your heads..."
On February 22, 1990, President George H.W. Bush signed Joint Resolution 164 declaring 1990 the International Year of Bible Reading:
"Among the great books produced throughout the history of mankind, the Bible has been prized above all others...
The Bible has had a critical impact upon the development of Western civilization...
It was a biblical view of man - one affirming the dignity and worth of the human person, made in the image of our Creator - that inspired the principles upon which the United States is founded...
The historic speeches of Abraham Lincoln and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., provide compelling evidence of the role Scripture played in shaping the struggle against slavery and discrimination...
We recall the words of the prophet Isaiah, who declared, 'The grass withereth, the flower fadeth; but the word of our God shall stand forever.'...
When you have read the Bible you will know that it is the Word of God...
NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE BUSH, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim the year 1990 as the International Year of Bible Reading.
I invite all Americans to discover the great inspiration and knowledge that can be obtained through thoughtful reading of the Bible."
On May 3, 1990, President George Bush declared a National Day of Prayer:
"The great faith that led our Nation's Founding Fathers to pursue this bold experience in self-government has sustained us in uncertain and perilous times...
Like them, we do very well to recall our 'firm reliance on the protection of Divine Providence,'...and to pray for continued help and guidance from our wise and loving Creator."
President George Bush stated in his 1992 National Day of Prayer Proclamation:
"Whatever our individual religious convictions may be, each of us is invited to join in this National Day of Prayer...
Each of us can echo this timeless prayer of Solomon, the ancient king who prayed for, and received, the gift of wisdom:
'The Lord our God be with us, as He was with our fathers; may He not leave us or forsake us; so that He may incline our hearts to Him, to walk in all His ways...that all the peoples of the earth may know that the Lord is God; there is no other.'"
In his Christmas Message, December 8, 1992, President George H.W. Bush stated:
"As we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, whose life offers us a model of dignity, compassion, and justice, we renew our commitment to peace...Christ made clear the redemptive value of giving of oneself for others...
The heroic actions of our veterans, the lifesaving work of our scientists and physicians, and generosity of countless individuals who voluntarily give of their time, talents, and energy to help others - all have enriched humankind and affirmed the importance of our Judeo-Christian heritage in shaping our government and values."
Show Endnotes
(Brought to you by AmericanMinute.com)
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DAY 18 - DAILY BIBLE VERSE (BAPTISM) - JUNE 11, 2013
June 11
Luke 3:21 (The Voice Bible)
21 But before John’s imprisonment, when he was still preaching and ritually cleansing through baptism the people in the Jordan River, Jesus also came to him to be baptized. As Jesus prayed, the heavens opened,
Voice from Heaven: You are My Son, the Son I love, and in You I take great pleasure.
Luke 3:21 (The Voice Bible)
21 But before John’s imprisonment, when he was still preaching and ritually cleansing through baptism the people in the Jordan River, Jesus also came to him to be baptized. As Jesus prayed, the heavens opened,
Voice from Heaven: You are My Son, the Son I love, and in You I take great pleasure.
DAY 18 - DAILY PRAYER (BAPTISM) - JUNE 11, 2013
June 11
Prayer for Baptism Day (Adult)
Living and Loving Father,
I praise and thank You with my heart for the liberation You have given me from the clutches of sin and Satan. By Your death on the Cross of Calvary, You have put my old life with its sin and judgement to death forever, and endowed me with a new life that is abounding with joy.
Father, I commit this Baptism Day into Your most precious and loving hands. I believe that by Your crucifixion on the Cross, my old self was rendered powerless and I was freed from all sin. You were raised from the dead that I too may live a life victorious and overcoming all evil.
Father, this day, I rededicate myself to live in You and live a life for Your glory. I remember the day when I was baptized and washed off all my sins. Lord, it is Your grace that I must be counted worthy to be called Your child. Help me to keep Your commandments. Renew my strength this day that I may be strong in faith and increase in zeal. Preserve me for the glorious day of Your coming. I believe Your Word which says, "He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ". Let this day be the beginning. Lead me into greater spiritual depths even in the coming days. In Jesus' precious name I pray.
Amen.
Prayer for Baptism Day (Adult)
Living and Loving Father,
I praise and thank You with my heart for the liberation You have given me from the clutches of sin and Satan. By Your death on the Cross of Calvary, You have put my old life with its sin and judgement to death forever, and endowed me with a new life that is abounding with joy.
Father, I commit this Baptism Day into Your most precious and loving hands. I believe that by Your crucifixion on the Cross, my old self was rendered powerless and I was freed from all sin. You were raised from the dead that I too may live a life victorious and overcoming all evil.
Father, this day, I rededicate myself to live in You and live a life for Your glory. I remember the day when I was baptized and washed off all my sins. Lord, it is Your grace that I must be counted worthy to be called Your child. Help me to keep Your commandments. Renew my strength this day that I may be strong in faith and increase in zeal. Preserve me for the glorious day of Your coming. I believe Your Word which says, "He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ". Let this day be the beginning. Lead me into greater spiritual depths even in the coming days. In Jesus' precious name I pray.
Amen.
DAY 18 - DAILY QUESTION ABOUT GOD'S WORD (WHAT IS THE IMPORTANCE OF CHRISTIAN BAPTISM?)
June 11
Question: "What is the importance of Christian baptism?"
Answer: Christian baptism is, according to the Bible, an outward testimony of what has occurred inwardly in a believer’s life. Christian baptism illustrates a believer’s identification with Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection. The Bible declares, “Or don't you know that all of us who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? We were therefore buried with Him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life” (Romans 6:3-4). In Christian baptism, the action of being immersed in the water symbolizes dying and being buried with Christ. The action of coming out of the water pictures Christ’s resurrection.
In Christian baptism, there are two requirements before a person is baptized: 1) the person being baptized must have trusted in Jesus Christ as Savior, and 2) the person must understand what baptism signifies. If a person knows the Lord Jesus as Savior, understands that Christian baptism is a step of obedience in publicly proclaiming his faith in Christ, and desires to be baptized, then there is no reason to prevent the believer from being baptized. According to the Bible, Christian baptism is important because it is a step of obedience—publicly declaring faith in Christ and commitment to Him—an identification with Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection.
Recommended Resources:Logos Bible SoftwareandBeliever's Baptism: Sign of the New Covenant in Christ by Schriener and Wright.
While he is not the author of every article on GotQuestions.org, for citation purposes, you may reference our CEO, S. Michael Houdmann.
Read more:http://www.gotquestions.org/Christian-baptism.html#ixzz2WPJiB7GB
Question: "What is the importance of Christian baptism?"
Answer: Christian baptism is, according to the Bible, an outward testimony of what has occurred inwardly in a believer’s life. Christian baptism illustrates a believer’s identification with Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection. The Bible declares, “Or don't you know that all of us who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? We were therefore buried with Him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life” (Romans 6:3-4). In Christian baptism, the action of being immersed in the water symbolizes dying and being buried with Christ. The action of coming out of the water pictures Christ’s resurrection.
In Christian baptism, there are two requirements before a person is baptized: 1) the person being baptized must have trusted in Jesus Christ as Savior, and 2) the person must understand what baptism signifies. If a person knows the Lord Jesus as Savior, understands that Christian baptism is a step of obedience in publicly proclaiming his faith in Christ, and desires to be baptized, then there is no reason to prevent the believer from being baptized. According to the Bible, Christian baptism is important because it is a step of obedience—publicly declaring faith in Christ and commitment to Him—an identification with Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection.
Recommended Resources:Logos Bible SoftwareandBeliever's Baptism: Sign of the New Covenant in Christ by Schriener and Wright.
While he is not the author of every article on GotQuestions.org, for citation purposes, you may reference our CEO, S. Michael Houdmann.
Read more:http://www.gotquestions.org/Christian-baptism.html#ixzz2WPJiB7GB
DAY 18 - DAILY HISTORY - AMERICAN MINUTE FOR JUNE 11, 2013
June 11
American Minute for June 11th:
Download MP3
He sent Paul Revere and William Dawes on their midnight ride.
They were to warn Lexington and Concord the government was coming to seize their guns and arrest Tea Party leader Samuel Adams and businessman John Hancock, who was targeted by the King's tax collectors, having his Liberty ship raided and confiscated.
A Harvard graduate and a successful doctor in Boston, he left his career when the British passed the hated Stamp Act of 1765.
His name was Dr. Joseph Warren, born JUNE 11, 1741.
In 1774, King George III punished the colonists for the Boston Tea Party by enacting Intolerable Acts:
-blocking Boston's harbor until citizens reimbursed the East India Tea Company;
-quartering British soldiers in private homes;
-allowing British officials to be unaccountable for their crimes; and
-replacing Massachusetts' elected officials with royal appointees.
In response, Dr. Joseph Warren and Samuel Adams organized the Massachusetts Provincial Congress in protest.
In September of 1774, Dr. Joseph Warren wrote the Suffolk Resolves, urging Massachusetts to establish a free state, boycott British goods, form militias and no longer be loyal to a king who violates their rights:
"Whereas...the vengeance but not the wisdom of Great Britain, which of old persecuted, scourged, and exiled our fugitive parents from their native shores, now pursues us, their guiltless children, with unrelenting severity...
It is an indispensable duty which we owe to God, our country, ourselves and posterity, by all lawful ways and means in our power to maintain, defend and preserve those civil and religious rights and liberties, for which many of our fathers fought, bled and died, and to hand them down entire to future generations."
Dr. Joseph Warren became President of the Massachusetts Provincial Congress, April of 1775.
His brother, Dr. John Warren, founded Harvard Medical School.
In June of 1775, as British ships entered Boston's harbor, 34-year-old Dr. Joseph Warren joined the militia.
Though appointed a Major General by the Provincial Congress, he chose to serve as a private, acknowledging General Israel Putnam and Colonel William Prescott had more military experience.
On June 17, 1775, Warren asked to be placed where the heaviest fighting would be and Putnam pointed to Bunker Hill.
He fought in the redoubt, repelling the British soldiers, till he ran out of ammunition.
The British made a third and final assault on the hill, and Warren was killed instantly by a musket ball in the head. His body was stripped, bayoneted until unrecognizable, and then shoved into a ditch.
Ten month later, Paul Revere helped identify his remains by an artificial tooth he had placed in his jaw.
A monument marks where he died.
Three years earlier Dr. Joseph Warren had stated on the anniversary of the Boston Massacre:
"If you perform your part, you must have the strongest confidence that the same Almighty Being who protected your pious and venerable forefathers, who enabled them to turn a barren wilderness into a fruitful field, who so often made bare His arm for their salvation, will still be mindful of you, their offspring..."
Warren continued:
"May this Almighty Being graciously preside in all our councils.
May He direct us to such measures as He Himself shall approve, and be pleased to bless.
May our land be a land of liberty, the seat of virtue, the asylum of the oppressed, a name and a praise in the whole earth, until the last shock of time shall bury the empires of the world in one common undistinguishable ruin!"
Show Endnotes
(Brought to you by AmericanMinute.com)
Add American Minute on your Website How to use the American Minute RSS feed Post to Facebook Post to Twitter
American Minute for June 11th:
Download MP3
He sent Paul Revere and William Dawes on their midnight ride.
They were to warn Lexington and Concord the government was coming to seize their guns and arrest Tea Party leader Samuel Adams and businessman John Hancock, who was targeted by the King's tax collectors, having his Liberty ship raided and confiscated.
A Harvard graduate and a successful doctor in Boston, he left his career when the British passed the hated Stamp Act of 1765.
His name was Dr. Joseph Warren, born JUNE 11, 1741.
In 1774, King George III punished the colonists for the Boston Tea Party by enacting Intolerable Acts:
-blocking Boston's harbor until citizens reimbursed the East India Tea Company;
-quartering British soldiers in private homes;
-allowing British officials to be unaccountable for their crimes; and
-replacing Massachusetts' elected officials with royal appointees.
In response, Dr. Joseph Warren and Samuel Adams organized the Massachusetts Provincial Congress in protest.
In September of 1774, Dr. Joseph Warren wrote the Suffolk Resolves, urging Massachusetts to establish a free state, boycott British goods, form militias and no longer be loyal to a king who violates their rights:
"Whereas...the vengeance but not the wisdom of Great Britain, which of old persecuted, scourged, and exiled our fugitive parents from their native shores, now pursues us, their guiltless children, with unrelenting severity...
It is an indispensable duty which we owe to God, our country, ourselves and posterity, by all lawful ways and means in our power to maintain, defend and preserve those civil and religious rights and liberties, for which many of our fathers fought, bled and died, and to hand them down entire to future generations."
Dr. Joseph Warren became President of the Massachusetts Provincial Congress, April of 1775.
His brother, Dr. John Warren, founded Harvard Medical School.
In June of 1775, as British ships entered Boston's harbor, 34-year-old Dr. Joseph Warren joined the militia.
Though appointed a Major General by the Provincial Congress, he chose to serve as a private, acknowledging General Israel Putnam and Colonel William Prescott had more military experience.
On June 17, 1775, Warren asked to be placed where the heaviest fighting would be and Putnam pointed to Bunker Hill.
He fought in the redoubt, repelling the British soldiers, till he ran out of ammunition.
The British made a third and final assault on the hill, and Warren was killed instantly by a musket ball in the head. His body was stripped, bayoneted until unrecognizable, and then shoved into a ditch.
Ten month later, Paul Revere helped identify his remains by an artificial tooth he had placed in his jaw.
A monument marks where he died.
Three years earlier Dr. Joseph Warren had stated on the anniversary of the Boston Massacre:
"If you perform your part, you must have the strongest confidence that the same Almighty Being who protected your pious and venerable forefathers, who enabled them to turn a barren wilderness into a fruitful field, who so often made bare His arm for their salvation, will still be mindful of you, their offspring..."
Warren continued:
"May this Almighty Being graciously preside in all our councils.
May He direct us to such measures as He Himself shall approve, and be pleased to bless.
May our land be a land of liberty, the seat of virtue, the asylum of the oppressed, a name and a praise in the whole earth, until the last shock of time shall bury the empires of the world in one common undistinguishable ruin!"
Show Endnotes
(Brought to you by AmericanMinute.com)
Add American Minute on your Website How to use the American Minute RSS feed Post to Facebook Post to Twitter
DAY 17 - DAILY BIBLE VERSE (GIVE TO GOD WHAT BELONGS TO GOD) - JUNE 10, 2013
June 10
Mark 2:17 (The Voice Bible)
Jesus (to the scribes): People who have their health don’t need to see a doctor. Only those who are sick do. I’m not here to call those already in good standing with God; I’m here to call sinners to turn back to Him.
Mark 2:17 (The Voice Bible)
Jesus (to the scribes): People who have their health don’t need to see a doctor. Only those who are sick do. I’m not here to call those already in good standing with God; I’m here to call sinners to turn back to Him.
DAY 17 - DAILY DEVOTION - JUNE 10, 2013
June 10
What Are You Hiding?
Posted on March 25, 2013 by katherine
When I started dating the wonderful man God brought into my life, I didn’t want him to “know everything” if you know what I mean, not that there was really anything seriously wrong, but in reality, anything hidden needs to come to the light, don’t you think?
I didn’t want him to know that when I get afraid I push back & resort to running & hiding like a little child.
God began to show me, I needed to confess and expose all the fears that were holding me captive, so that I may be healed as it says in James 5:16.
Once I did, God took my hidden things, healed it, and gave me a love that could only come from Him. Not only was I free from bondage that held me, but now, I was whole and complete: mind, body, soul, and spirit. What a Great God we serve, to take something hidden that is really harming us, and turn it around for our good!
I urge you- don’t allow the devil to tempt you into keeping your deepest darkest secret a secret any longer. Confess and Expose, so you may be healed!
We expose it for what it is.. Sin! Don’t be embarrassed, get rid of it now, no matter what it may be: failure of any kind, fear, loneliness, lust, pornography, sexual addictions, depression, oppression, suicidal thoughts, drug addictions, or maybe it’s something that I haven’t even mentioned, God knows, so let it go.
Now, “Pleasures are by my side forevermore” and pleasures can be by your side too, if you will expose and confess, so you may be healed.
What Are You Hiding?
Posted on March 25, 2013 by katherine
When I started dating the wonderful man God brought into my life, I didn’t want him to “know everything” if you know what I mean, not that there was really anything seriously wrong, but in reality, anything hidden needs to come to the light, don’t you think?
I didn’t want him to know that when I get afraid I push back & resort to running & hiding like a little child.
God began to show me, I needed to confess and expose all the fears that were holding me captive, so that I may be healed as it says in James 5:16.
Once I did, God took my hidden things, healed it, and gave me a love that could only come from Him. Not only was I free from bondage that held me, but now, I was whole and complete: mind, body, soul, and spirit. What a Great God we serve, to take something hidden that is really harming us, and turn it around for our good!
I urge you- don’t allow the devil to tempt you into keeping your deepest darkest secret a secret any longer. Confess and Expose, so you may be healed!
We expose it for what it is.. Sin! Don’t be embarrassed, get rid of it now, no matter what it may be: failure of any kind, fear, loneliness, lust, pornography, sexual addictions, depression, oppression, suicidal thoughts, drug addictions, or maybe it’s something that I haven’t even mentioned, God knows, so let it go.
Now, “Pleasures are by my side forevermore” and pleasures can be by your side too, if you will expose and confess, so you may be healed.
DAY 17 - DAILY PRAYER (SINNERS PRAYER) - JUNE 10, 2013
June 10
Dear God in heaven, I come to you in the name of Jesus. I acknowledge to You that I am a sinner, and I am sorry for my sins and the life that I have lived; I need your forgiveness.
I believe that your only begotten Son Jesus Christ shed His precious blood on the cross at Calvary and died for my sins, and I am now willing to turn from my sin.
You said in Your Holy Word, Romans 10:9 that if we confess the Lord our God and believe in our hearts that God raised Jesus from the dead, we shall be saved.
Right now I confess Jesus as the Lord of my soul. With my heart, I believe that God raised Jesus from the dead. This very moment I accept Jesus Christ as my own personal Savior and according to His Word, right now I am saved.
Thank you Jesus for your unlimited grace which has saved me from my sins. I thank you Jesus that your grace never leads to license, but rather it always leads to repentance. Therefore Lord Jesus transform my life so that I may bring glory and honor to you alone and not to myself.
Thank you Jesus for dying for me and giving me eternal life.
Amen.
Dear God in heaven, I come to you in the name of Jesus. I acknowledge to You that I am a sinner, and I am sorry for my sins and the life that I have lived; I need your forgiveness.
I believe that your only begotten Son Jesus Christ shed His precious blood on the cross at Calvary and died for my sins, and I am now willing to turn from my sin.
You said in Your Holy Word, Romans 10:9 that if we confess the Lord our God and believe in our hearts that God raised Jesus from the dead, we shall be saved.
Right now I confess Jesus as the Lord of my soul. With my heart, I believe that God raised Jesus from the dead. This very moment I accept Jesus Christ as my own personal Savior and according to His Word, right now I am saved.
Thank you Jesus for your unlimited grace which has saved me from my sins. I thank you Jesus that your grace never leads to license, but rather it always leads to repentance. Therefore Lord Jesus transform my life so that I may bring glory and honor to you alone and not to myself.
Thank you Jesus for dying for me and giving me eternal life.
Amen.
DAY 17 - DAILY QUESTION ABOUT GOD'S WORD (WHY DOES GOD HATE SIN)
June 10
Question: "Why does God hate sin?"
Answer:God hates sin because it is the very antithesis of His nature. The psalmist describes God’s hatred of sin this way: “For You are not a God who takes pleasure in wickedness; no evil dwells with You” (Psalm 5:4). God hates sin because He is holy; holiness is the most exalted of all His attributes (Isaiah 6:3;Revelation 6:8). His holiness totally saturates His being. His holiness epitomizes His moral perfection and His absolute freedom from blemish of any kind (Psalm 89:35;92:15;Romans 9:14).
The Bible presents God’s attitude toward sin with strong feelings of hostility, disgust, and utter dislike. For example, sin is described as putrefying sores (Isaiah 1:6, NKJV), a heavy burden (Psalm 38:4), defiling filth (Titus 1:15;2 Corinthians 7:1), a binding debt (Matthew 6:12-15), darkness (1 John 1:6) and a scarlet stain (Isaiah 1:18).
God hates sin for the simple reason that sin separates us from Him: “But your iniquities have separated you from your God; your sins have hidden His face from you, so that He will not hear” (Isaiah 59:2; see alsoIsaiah 13:11;Jeremiah 5:25). It was sin that caused Adam and Eve to run away from God and hide “among the trees of the garden” (Genesis 3:8). Sin always brings separation, and the fact that God hates sin means that He hates being separated from us. His love demands restoration, which in turn demands holiness.
God also hates sin because of its subtle deceitfulness which entices us to focus on worldly pleasure to the exclusion of God’s blessings. Those who have their sins forgiven can say, “You will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand” (Psalm 16:11). To pursue sin is to turn one’s back on the gifts of God, who has “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future” (Jeremiah 29:11). God’s hatred of sin implies that He loves His people and wants to bless them.
Another reason God hates sin is that it blinds us to the truth. Jesus likened false teachers to “blind leaders of the blind” (Matthew 15:14, NKJV). John said that the one who hates his brother “does not know where he is going, because the darkness has blinded him” (1 John 2:11). Sin has consequences which the sinner often disregards. “Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows” (Galatians 6:7; see alsoNumbers 32:23). God hates sin for the same reason that light hates darkness and truth hates a lie. God wants His children to “have the full riches of complete understanding” (Colossians 2:2), and sin only gets in the way.
God hates sin because it enslaves us and will eventually destroy us. Just as Samson’s sin led to his physical blindness and captivity (Judges 16:21), our sin will lead to spiritual blindness and bondage. “Don't you know that when you offer yourselves to someone to obey him as slaves, you are slaves to the one whom you obey – whether you are slaves to sin, which leads to death, or to obedience, which leads to righteousness” (Romans 6:16). God is the source of life, and He will extend that life eternally to all who believe. Sin is a barrier to our reception of life, and that is one reason why God hates it.
God hates sin because it lessens our love for Him. The Bible says, “Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in Him. For everything in the world—the cravings of sinful man, the lust of his eyes and the boasting of what he has and does—comes not from the Father but from the world” (1 John 2:15-16). James warns us of the danger of embracing the world: “You adulterous people, don’t you know that friendship with the world is hatred toward God? Anyone who chooses to be a friend of the world becomes an enemy of God” (James 4:4). No one can serve two masters (Luke 16:13), and we must choose between sin and righteousness.
As believers, we should hate sin as does God. We are “sons of the light and sons of the day. We do not belong to the night or to the darkness” (1 Thessalonians 5:5). We must recognize that God has set us apart; we are “a holy nation, a people belonging to God” (1 Peter 2:9). We cannot become holy on our own, but God gives us His Holy Spirit to sanctify us (2 Thessalonians 2:13). We have His promise that He will help us in our struggle against sin (1 Corinthians 1:8).
We hate sin because it separates us from God. We hate it because it lessens our love and dulls our conscience, because it binds us and blinds us. We hate it because it grieves the Spirit of God (Ephesians 4:30). Our prayer to the Holy One is “May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ” (1 Thessalonians 5:23).
Recommended Resources:Logos Bible SoftwareandBasic Theology by Charles Ryrie.
While he is not the author of every article on GotQuestions.org, for citation purposes, you may reference our CEO, S. Michael Houdmann.
Read more:http://www.gotquestions.org/God-hate-sin.html#ixzz2WP7CzROv
Question: "Why does God hate sin?"
Answer:God hates sin because it is the very antithesis of His nature. The psalmist describes God’s hatred of sin this way: “For You are not a God who takes pleasure in wickedness; no evil dwells with You” (Psalm 5:4). God hates sin because He is holy; holiness is the most exalted of all His attributes (Isaiah 6:3;Revelation 6:8). His holiness totally saturates His being. His holiness epitomizes His moral perfection and His absolute freedom from blemish of any kind (Psalm 89:35;92:15;Romans 9:14).
The Bible presents God’s attitude toward sin with strong feelings of hostility, disgust, and utter dislike. For example, sin is described as putrefying sores (Isaiah 1:6, NKJV), a heavy burden (Psalm 38:4), defiling filth (Titus 1:15;2 Corinthians 7:1), a binding debt (Matthew 6:12-15), darkness (1 John 1:6) and a scarlet stain (Isaiah 1:18).
God hates sin for the simple reason that sin separates us from Him: “But your iniquities have separated you from your God; your sins have hidden His face from you, so that He will not hear” (Isaiah 59:2; see alsoIsaiah 13:11;Jeremiah 5:25). It was sin that caused Adam and Eve to run away from God and hide “among the trees of the garden” (Genesis 3:8). Sin always brings separation, and the fact that God hates sin means that He hates being separated from us. His love demands restoration, which in turn demands holiness.
God also hates sin because of its subtle deceitfulness which entices us to focus on worldly pleasure to the exclusion of God’s blessings. Those who have their sins forgiven can say, “You will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand” (Psalm 16:11). To pursue sin is to turn one’s back on the gifts of God, who has “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future” (Jeremiah 29:11). God’s hatred of sin implies that He loves His people and wants to bless them.
Another reason God hates sin is that it blinds us to the truth. Jesus likened false teachers to “blind leaders of the blind” (Matthew 15:14, NKJV). John said that the one who hates his brother “does not know where he is going, because the darkness has blinded him” (1 John 2:11). Sin has consequences which the sinner often disregards. “Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows” (Galatians 6:7; see alsoNumbers 32:23). God hates sin for the same reason that light hates darkness and truth hates a lie. God wants His children to “have the full riches of complete understanding” (Colossians 2:2), and sin only gets in the way.
God hates sin because it enslaves us and will eventually destroy us. Just as Samson’s sin led to his physical blindness and captivity (Judges 16:21), our sin will lead to spiritual blindness and bondage. “Don't you know that when you offer yourselves to someone to obey him as slaves, you are slaves to the one whom you obey – whether you are slaves to sin, which leads to death, or to obedience, which leads to righteousness” (Romans 6:16). God is the source of life, and He will extend that life eternally to all who believe. Sin is a barrier to our reception of life, and that is one reason why God hates it.
God hates sin because it lessens our love for Him. The Bible says, “Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in Him. For everything in the world—the cravings of sinful man, the lust of his eyes and the boasting of what he has and does—comes not from the Father but from the world” (1 John 2:15-16). James warns us of the danger of embracing the world: “You adulterous people, don’t you know that friendship with the world is hatred toward God? Anyone who chooses to be a friend of the world becomes an enemy of God” (James 4:4). No one can serve two masters (Luke 16:13), and we must choose between sin and righteousness.
As believers, we should hate sin as does God. We are “sons of the light and sons of the day. We do not belong to the night or to the darkness” (1 Thessalonians 5:5). We must recognize that God has set us apart; we are “a holy nation, a people belonging to God” (1 Peter 2:9). We cannot become holy on our own, but God gives us His Holy Spirit to sanctify us (2 Thessalonians 2:13). We have His promise that He will help us in our struggle against sin (1 Corinthians 1:8).
We hate sin because it separates us from God. We hate it because it lessens our love and dulls our conscience, because it binds us and blinds us. We hate it because it grieves the Spirit of God (Ephesians 4:30). Our prayer to the Holy One is “May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ” (1 Thessalonians 5:23).
Recommended Resources:Logos Bible SoftwareandBasic Theology by Charles Ryrie.
While he is not the author of every article on GotQuestions.org, for citation purposes, you may reference our CEO, S. Michael Houdmann.
Read more:http://www.gotquestions.org/God-hate-sin.html#ixzz2WP7CzROv
DAY 17 - DAILY HISTORY - AMERICAN MINUTE FOR JUNE 10, 2013
June 10
American Minute for June 10th:
Download MP3
The United States Naval Academy at Annapolis, Maryland, graduated its first class on JUNE 10, 1854.
The Academy was established under George Bancroft, Secretary of the Navy under President James K. Polk, 1845-46.
Bancroft also established the U.S. Naval Observatory in Washington, D.C.
He is the namesake of the Naval Academy's "Bancroft Hall," the largest single dormitory in the world.
George Bancroft published a ten-volume History of the United States, the first comprehensive history of America.
In it, Bancroft described the Puritans who founded Annapolis, Maryland:
"Puritanism had exalted the laity....
For him the wonderful counsels of the Almighty had appointed a Saviour; for him the laws of nature had been compelled and consulted, the heavens had opened, the earth had quaked, the Sun had veiled his face, and Christ had died and risen again."
Puritans, comprising about 600,000 of the 3 million Americans at the time of the Revolution, were influenced by Reformer John Calvin, as were other colonial Americans: 900,000 Scotch and Scotch-Irish; 400,000 German or Dutch Reformed; Protestant French Huguenots and
Episcopalians, who had a Calvinistic confession in their 39 Articles.
George Bancroft wrote:
"He who will not honor the memory and respect the influence of Calvin knows little of the origin of American liberty."
George Bancroft wrote in "The Progress of Mankind," published in Literary and Historical Miscellanies:
"For the regeneration of the world it was requisite that the Divine Being should enter the...hearts of men and dwell there...
That He should be known, not as a distant Providence of boundless power and uncertain and inactive will, but as God present in the flesh...
The consciousness of an incarnate God carried peace into the bosom of humanity...This doctrine once communicated to man, was not to be eradicated...
The idea of GOD WITH US...dwells...in every soul that sighs for redemption."
On June 16, 1845, Secretary of the Navy George Bancroft received Order 27 from President James K. Polk:
"The President...with heartfelt sorrow announces to the Army, the Navy, and the Marine Corps the death of Andrew Jackson...He resigned his spirit to his Heavenly Father...
He believed the liberties of his country imperishable and...departed from this life in a full hope of a blessed immortality through the merits and atonement of the Redeemer.
Officers of the Army, the Navy, and the Marine Corps will wear crape on the left arm and on their swords, and the colors of the several regiments will be put in mourning for the period of six months."
The U.S. Naval Academy has a large stained glass window picturing Irish Saint Brendan of Clonfert (c.484-c.577), called "the Navigator" or "the Voyager" for his seven year voyage across the Atlantic.
St. Brendan discovered the "The Land of the Promised Saints which God will give us on the last day," also called "The Isle of the Blessed," making his band of monks possibly the first Europeans to reach America.
The U.S. Naval Academy has the oldest military monument in the United States - the Tripoli Monument, dedicated to the heroes who fought the Muslim Barbary pirates during the First Barbary War.
One of those heroes was Edward Preble. "Preble Hall" was named for him, which houses the U.S. Naval Academy Museum.
John Paul Jones is buried under the crypt in the U.S. Naval Academy Chapel.
Jones had fought during the Revolutionary War and afterwards fought Muslim Turks on the Black Sea for Catherine the Great of Russia.
Jefferson wrote to General Washington, 1788:
"The war between the Russians and the Turks has made an opening for our Commodore Paul Jones. The Empress has invited him into her service."
Uriah P. Levy was the first Jewish Commodore in the U.S. Navy.
Levy fought in the War of 1812 and commanded the Mediterranean squadron against Muslim Barbary pirates.
He was responsible for ending the practice of flogging in the Navy.
Levy bought Jefferson's decaying Monticello home in 1836, repaired it and opened it to the public. He commissioned the Jefferson statute which is the the U.S. Capitol rotunda.
A chapel at Annapolis was named after Uriah P. Levy, as well as a WWII destroyer.
The U.S. Naval Academy's "Maury Hall" is named for Matthew Fontaine Maury, the first superintendent of the U.S. Naval Observatory.
Known as the "Pathfinder of the Seas" for pioneering the charting sea and wind currents, Matthew Fontaine Maury wrote in Physical Geography of the Sea, 1855:
"I have always found in my scientific studies, that, when I could get the Bible to say anything on the subject it afforded me a firm platform to stand upon, and a round in the ladder by which I could safely ascend.
As our knowledge of nature and her laws has increased, so has our knowledge of many passages of the Bible improved.
The Bible called the earth 'the round world,' yet for ages it was the most damnable heresy for Christian men to say that the world is round; and, finally, sailors circumnavigated the globe, and proved the Bible to be right, and saved Christian men of science from the stake.
And as for the general system of circulation which I have been so long endeavoring to describe, the Bible tells it all in a single sentence: 'The wind goeth toward the South and returneth again to his circuits.'"
Maury's tombstone at the U.S. Naval Academy has engraved the Bible verse, Psalm 8:8, which had inspired him, "Whatsoever passeth through the paths of the seas."
In front of Maury Hall is a Japanese Bell, commemorating Commodore Matthew Perry opening trade with Japan in 1855.
Matthew Perry stated:
"I have just finished the Bible; I make it a point to read it through every cruise. It is certainly a wonderful Book-a most wonderful Book...
From boyhood I have taken a deep interest in Christianizing the heathen, and in imparting a knowledge of God's revealed truth everywhere."
Commodore Perry, on a Sunday in 1853, while sailing to Japan, set his Bible on the capstan and read Psalm 100, then sang:
"Before Jehovah's awful throne
Ye nations bow with sacred joy."
Civil War hero, Admiral David Dixon Porter, became superintendent of U.S. Naval Academy. He wrote:
"When one sees how much has been done for the world by the disciples of Christ and those professing the Christian religion, he must be astonished to find anyone who hesitates to believe in the Divine origin of Jesus and the wonderful works He performed, all of which are so beautifully portrayed by the author of the work under consideration;
and no man or woman of real intelligence would hesitate to believe that it is only through Christ that sinners can be saved, unless their vanity is so great that they are capable of saving themselves without an intermediary."
The U.S. Naval Academy's "Luce Hall" was named after Rear Admiral Stephen Bleecker Luce, who was a hero of the Civil War and founder of the U.S. Naval War College at Newport, Rhode Island.
When asked to write a comment in Stephen A. Northrop's book A Cloud of Witnesses in 1884, Stephen Bleecker Luce wrote:
"Surely seamen are worthy to appear in your Cloud of Witnesses. Not only did our Saviour consort with the seamen of Galilee, but there are many examples in history of noted naval heroes who exhibited the highest Christian virtues.
I wish to be counted among this great company of believers in the divinity of Christ, and in the inspiration of all Scripture."
The U.S. Naval Academy's "Mahan Hall" is named after Rear Admiral Alfred Thayer Mahan, whose books on naval strategy influenced President Theodore Roosevelt to increase U.S. Naval strength.
Alfred Thayer Mahan stated:
"Upon the Bible my life rests for whatsoever is good and strong. Convinced that Christ is the Son of God, in the deepest sense attributed to those words, I not only find in this belief all the power of my life, but, in the account of His personality, an intellectual satisfaction that surpasses any other in its inexhaustible freshness, daily renewing my strength, and throwing an ever-increasing light upon the problems and difficulties of life.
It is this intellectual satisfaction that most impresses me; that the teachings of Jesus Christ contains a philosophy of life in fullest accord with experience, and also inexhaustible, in that its revelation is continuous.
While the faith in His teachings thus meet all my mental exigencies, I in no way derogate from its supernatural sanctions. He is to me one who speaks with authority no less than Divine, to whom I submit where I do not understand."
President Woodrow Wilson addressed the graduating class of the U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis, June 5, 1914:
"You are champions of your fellow men, particularly of that great body one hundred million strong whom you represent in the United States...
Things that show the moral compulsions of the human conscience, those are the things by which we have been building up civilization."
President Calvin Coolidge addressed the graduating class of the U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis, June 3, 1925:
"Not long ago I heard a Navy chaplain refer to the sage advice of the Apostle to put first things first...If we are to heed the admonition to put first things first...one of the main essentials which lies at the very beginning of civilization is that of security.
It is only when people can feel that their lives and the property which their industry has produced today will continue to be safe on the morrow that there can be that stability of value and that economic progress on which human development has always rested...
Unless we lay our course in accordance with this principle, the great power for good in the world with which we have been intrusted by a Divine Providence will be turned to a power for evil."
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The United States Naval Academy at Annapolis, Maryland, graduated its first class on JUNE 10, 1854.
The Academy was established under George Bancroft, Secretary of the Navy under President James K. Polk, 1845-46.
Bancroft also established the U.S. Naval Observatory in Washington, D.C.
He is the namesake of the Naval Academy's "Bancroft Hall," the largest single dormitory in the world.
George Bancroft published a ten-volume History of the United States, the first comprehensive history of America.
In it, Bancroft described the Puritans who founded Annapolis, Maryland:
"Puritanism had exalted the laity....
For him the wonderful counsels of the Almighty had appointed a Saviour; for him the laws of nature had been compelled and consulted, the heavens had opened, the earth had quaked, the Sun had veiled his face, and Christ had died and risen again."
Puritans, comprising about 600,000 of the 3 million Americans at the time of the Revolution, were influenced by Reformer John Calvin, as were other colonial Americans: 900,000 Scotch and Scotch-Irish; 400,000 German or Dutch Reformed; Protestant French Huguenots and
Episcopalians, who had a Calvinistic confession in their 39 Articles.
George Bancroft wrote:
"He who will not honor the memory and respect the influence of Calvin knows little of the origin of American liberty."
George Bancroft wrote in "The Progress of Mankind," published in Literary and Historical Miscellanies:
"For the regeneration of the world it was requisite that the Divine Being should enter the...hearts of men and dwell there...
That He should be known, not as a distant Providence of boundless power and uncertain and inactive will, but as God present in the flesh...
The consciousness of an incarnate God carried peace into the bosom of humanity...This doctrine once communicated to man, was not to be eradicated...
The idea of GOD WITH US...dwells...in every soul that sighs for redemption."
On June 16, 1845, Secretary of the Navy George Bancroft received Order 27 from President James K. Polk:
"The President...with heartfelt sorrow announces to the Army, the Navy, and the Marine Corps the death of Andrew Jackson...He resigned his spirit to his Heavenly Father...
He believed the liberties of his country imperishable and...departed from this life in a full hope of a blessed immortality through the merits and atonement of the Redeemer.
Officers of the Army, the Navy, and the Marine Corps will wear crape on the left arm and on their swords, and the colors of the several regiments will be put in mourning for the period of six months."
The U.S. Naval Academy has a large stained glass window picturing Irish Saint Brendan of Clonfert (c.484-c.577), called "the Navigator" or "the Voyager" for his seven year voyage across the Atlantic.
St. Brendan discovered the "The Land of the Promised Saints which God will give us on the last day," also called "The Isle of the Blessed," making his band of monks possibly the first Europeans to reach America.
The U.S. Naval Academy has the oldest military monument in the United States - the Tripoli Monument, dedicated to the heroes who fought the Muslim Barbary pirates during the First Barbary War.
One of those heroes was Edward Preble. "Preble Hall" was named for him, which houses the U.S. Naval Academy Museum.
John Paul Jones is buried under the crypt in the U.S. Naval Academy Chapel.
Jones had fought during the Revolutionary War and afterwards fought Muslim Turks on the Black Sea for Catherine the Great of Russia.
Jefferson wrote to General Washington, 1788:
"The war between the Russians and the Turks has made an opening for our Commodore Paul Jones. The Empress has invited him into her service."
Uriah P. Levy was the first Jewish Commodore in the U.S. Navy.
Levy fought in the War of 1812 and commanded the Mediterranean squadron against Muslim Barbary pirates.
He was responsible for ending the practice of flogging in the Navy.
Levy bought Jefferson's decaying Monticello home in 1836, repaired it and opened it to the public. He commissioned the Jefferson statute which is the the U.S. Capitol rotunda.
A chapel at Annapolis was named after Uriah P. Levy, as well as a WWII destroyer.
The U.S. Naval Academy's "Maury Hall" is named for Matthew Fontaine Maury, the first superintendent of the U.S. Naval Observatory.
Known as the "Pathfinder of the Seas" for pioneering the charting sea and wind currents, Matthew Fontaine Maury wrote in Physical Geography of the Sea, 1855:
"I have always found in my scientific studies, that, when I could get the Bible to say anything on the subject it afforded me a firm platform to stand upon, and a round in the ladder by which I could safely ascend.
As our knowledge of nature and her laws has increased, so has our knowledge of many passages of the Bible improved.
The Bible called the earth 'the round world,' yet for ages it was the most damnable heresy for Christian men to say that the world is round; and, finally, sailors circumnavigated the globe, and proved the Bible to be right, and saved Christian men of science from the stake.
And as for the general system of circulation which I have been so long endeavoring to describe, the Bible tells it all in a single sentence: 'The wind goeth toward the South and returneth again to his circuits.'"
Maury's tombstone at the U.S. Naval Academy has engraved the Bible verse, Psalm 8:8, which had inspired him, "Whatsoever passeth through the paths of the seas."
In front of Maury Hall is a Japanese Bell, commemorating Commodore Matthew Perry opening trade with Japan in 1855.
Matthew Perry stated:
"I have just finished the Bible; I make it a point to read it through every cruise. It is certainly a wonderful Book-a most wonderful Book...
From boyhood I have taken a deep interest in Christianizing the heathen, and in imparting a knowledge of God's revealed truth everywhere."
Commodore Perry, on a Sunday in 1853, while sailing to Japan, set his Bible on the capstan and read Psalm 100, then sang:
"Before Jehovah's awful throne
Ye nations bow with sacred joy."
Civil War hero, Admiral David Dixon Porter, became superintendent of U.S. Naval Academy. He wrote:
"When one sees how much has been done for the world by the disciples of Christ and those professing the Christian religion, he must be astonished to find anyone who hesitates to believe in the Divine origin of Jesus and the wonderful works He performed, all of which are so beautifully portrayed by the author of the work under consideration;
and no man or woman of real intelligence would hesitate to believe that it is only through Christ that sinners can be saved, unless their vanity is so great that they are capable of saving themselves without an intermediary."
The U.S. Naval Academy's "Luce Hall" was named after Rear Admiral Stephen Bleecker Luce, who was a hero of the Civil War and founder of the U.S. Naval War College at Newport, Rhode Island.
When asked to write a comment in Stephen A. Northrop's book A Cloud of Witnesses in 1884, Stephen Bleecker Luce wrote:
"Surely seamen are worthy to appear in your Cloud of Witnesses. Not only did our Saviour consort with the seamen of Galilee, but there are many examples in history of noted naval heroes who exhibited the highest Christian virtues.
I wish to be counted among this great company of believers in the divinity of Christ, and in the inspiration of all Scripture."
The U.S. Naval Academy's "Mahan Hall" is named after Rear Admiral Alfred Thayer Mahan, whose books on naval strategy influenced President Theodore Roosevelt to increase U.S. Naval strength.
Alfred Thayer Mahan stated:
"Upon the Bible my life rests for whatsoever is good and strong. Convinced that Christ is the Son of God, in the deepest sense attributed to those words, I not only find in this belief all the power of my life, but, in the account of His personality, an intellectual satisfaction that surpasses any other in its inexhaustible freshness, daily renewing my strength, and throwing an ever-increasing light upon the problems and difficulties of life.
It is this intellectual satisfaction that most impresses me; that the teachings of Jesus Christ contains a philosophy of life in fullest accord with experience, and also inexhaustible, in that its revelation is continuous.
While the faith in His teachings thus meet all my mental exigencies, I in no way derogate from its supernatural sanctions. He is to me one who speaks with authority no less than Divine, to whom I submit where I do not understand."
President Woodrow Wilson addressed the graduating class of the U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis, June 5, 1914:
"You are champions of your fellow men, particularly of that great body one hundred million strong whom you represent in the United States...
Things that show the moral compulsions of the human conscience, those are the things by which we have been building up civilization."
President Calvin Coolidge addressed the graduating class of the U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis, June 3, 1925:
"Not long ago I heard a Navy chaplain refer to the sage advice of the Apostle to put first things first...If we are to heed the admonition to put first things first...one of the main essentials which lies at the very beginning of civilization is that of security.
It is only when people can feel that their lives and the property which their industry has produced today will continue to be safe on the morrow that there can be that stability of value and that economic progress on which human development has always rested...
Unless we lay our course in accordance with this principle, the great power for good in the world with which we have been intrusted by a Divine Providence will be turned to a power for evil."
Show Endnotes
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DAY 16 - DAILY BIBLE VERSE (GIVE TO GOD WHAT BELONGS TO GOD) - JUNE 9, 2013
June 9
Mark 12:17 (The Voice Bible)
17 Then give to the emperor what belongs to the emperor. And give to God what belongs to God.
Mark 12:17 (The Voice Bible)
17 Then give to the emperor what belongs to the emperor. And give to God what belongs to God.
DAY 16 - DAILY DEVOTION - JUNE 9, 2013
June 9
Longing For
Posted on June 12, 2013 by katherine
David said in Psalm 130:6, “I long for the Lord, more than sentries long for the dawn, yes, more than sentries long for the dawn.”
Do you really long for the Lord; more than your upcoming summer vacation, finding your soul mate, or counting down the days & months until you can make more money?
Lord, help us to ache, crave, & yearn for you, help us never to be satisfied, until we have been with You!
inShare
This entry was posted in Uncategorized. Bookmark the permalink.
Longing For
Posted on June 12, 2013 by katherine
David said in Psalm 130:6, “I long for the Lord, more than sentries long for the dawn, yes, more than sentries long for the dawn.”
Do you really long for the Lord; more than your upcoming summer vacation, finding your soul mate, or counting down the days & months until you can make more money?
Lord, help us to ache, crave, & yearn for you, help us never to be satisfied, until we have been with You!
inShare
This entry was posted in Uncategorized. Bookmark the permalink.
DAY 16 - DAILY PRAYER (PRAYER FOR FINANCES) - JUNE 9, 2013
June 9
Dear God,
I surrender my financial affairs and concerns about money to your Divine care and love.
I ask that you remove my worries, anxieties, and fears about money, and replace them with faith.
I know and trust that my debts will be paid and money will flow into my life.
I have only to look to nature to see proof of the abundance you provide.
I release all negative thoughts about money, and know that prosperity is my true state.
I commit to being grateful for all that I now have in my life.
I learn to manage my finances wisely, seeking help where needed.
And finally, I ask you to help me understand my purpose in life and to act on that purpose with courage and strength. I know that prosperity will come, in part, by doing work I love. Please help me use my skills and knowledge to be of service in the world.
Thank you, God.
Amen
http://www.beliefnet.com/Prayers/Protestant/Work/Prayer-For-Help-With-Finances.aspx
Dear God,
I surrender my financial affairs and concerns about money to your Divine care and love.
I ask that you remove my worries, anxieties, and fears about money, and replace them with faith.
I know and trust that my debts will be paid and money will flow into my life.
I have only to look to nature to see proof of the abundance you provide.
I release all negative thoughts about money, and know that prosperity is my true state.
I commit to being grateful for all that I now have in my life.
I learn to manage my finances wisely, seeking help where needed.
And finally, I ask you to help me understand my purpose in life and to act on that purpose with courage and strength. I know that prosperity will come, in part, by doing work I love. Please help me use my skills and knowledge to be of service in the world.
Thank you, God.
Amen
http://www.beliefnet.com/Prayers/Protestant/Work/Prayer-For-Help-With-Finances.aspx
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