Articles

BRING IT ON DEVIL! Thriving on Threats

Paula White Exposed [video]

THAT’s My King! Pastor Lockridge [video]

Powerful Prayers from Children-This Will Shake You [video]

The Fear of the LORD is to Hate Evil: Pride, and Arrogancy #shorts [video]

Are You being Attacked?
Satan’s Attacks are the Springboard for Divine Blessings!

—–WARNING: This one may just cause you to shout for joy the next time you get persecuted for Jesus! Dare to Share.

Satan’s hoards, wolves, and minions have circled the wagons and are like hungry buzzards planning and anticipating the demise of God’s servants. But just as the LORD Almighty did in the case when Haman made hanging gallows for righteous Mordecai and the Jews, so shall the LORD hang and destroy those who plot against the righteous! (Book of Esther) The enemies of the LORD shall be thrown into the very pit they dug to bury the righteous! Read Psalm 35 and thrust your hands up in violent, joyful praise toward your God in Heaven!!!!! – “O clap your hands, all ye people; shout unto God with the voice of triumph.”(Psalms 47:1)

Are You Suffering? This will give you a whole new perspective!

New Perspective: GO FROM whining to God “Oh no LORD, helpppp!! I’m being persecuted” to saying to people, “PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE, persecute me! I need more of God’s blessings on my life!!!!!” (well, you know what I mean 😉

“My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; ³Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. ⁴But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting (lacking) nothing.” James 1:2-4

In response to the many who have called or emailed and asked for prayer and ministry concerning being slandered. As Jesus promised, “the love of many” is waxing (turning) cold (Matthew 24:10-13). LOVE is the measure of whether or not someone is abiding in Christ (John 15:1-6; Galatians 5:22-23). Without abiding/remaining in Jesus, love will vanquish and hell awaits (1 Corinthians 13: 1 John 3:14-15; 4:8, etc.).

Concerning our suffering slander and being misrepresented, F.B. Meyer wrote the following:

“There will come hours in our lives, when we shall be misconstrued, misunderstood, slandered, falsely accused, wrongfully persecuted. At such times it is very difficult not to act on the policy of the men around us in the world. They at once appeal to law and force and public opinion. But the believer takes his case into a higher court, and lays it before his God. He is prepared to use any means that may appear divinely suggested. But he relies much more on the divine clearing than he does on his own most perfect arrangements. He is content to wait for months and years, till God arise to avenge his cause. It is a very little thing for him to be judged adversely at the bar of man: he cares only for the judgment of God, and awaits the moment when the righteous shall shine forth in the kingdom of their Father, as the sun when it breaks from all obscuring mists. ‘When Christ, who is our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with him in glory.’ Ah! what a clearing-up of mysteries, what dissipating of misunderstandings, what vindication of character shall be there! Oh, slandered ones, you can afford to await the verdict of eternity; of God, who will bring out your righteousness as the light, and your judgment as the noon day.” F.B. Meyer, Joseph, p. 52

Beware of the False Watchmen

Recently, several of Christ’s called out watchmen have undergone attacks from wolves who are posing as watchmen and yet the fruit of their lives is not love (Galatians 5:22-23). As promised, the attacks upon the righteous are increasing (2 Timothy 3:12-13). These wolves cleverly pose behind the guise of being watchmen. This is the thin veil of their sheep’s clothing (Matthew 7:15). They seek to be disguised while they attack, falsely accuse, and seek to discredit God’s true watchmen. You also may have been attacked. We obey our soon coming King who told us to “rejoice” when “all manner of evil” is spoken against us! (Matthew 5:10-12)

Paul was viciously attacked and assailed and falsely accused many times … remember what he said about Alexander the coppersmith and how he warned everyone else to beware of that wolf? (2 Timothy 4:16-18)

Remember that these vicious wolves mean it for evil and God will judge them eternally. The LORD will also use these attacks upon you for His glory and your good as He did with Joseph who later said of his wolf brothers: “But as for you, ye thought evil against me; but God meant it unto good, to bring to pass, as it is this day, to save much people alive.”(Genesis 50:20)

Have you noticed that the more the enemy attacks you, the more blessings God brings into you life? Is this biblical? Yes, concerning the people of God and their enemies, the Bible says “But THE MORE they afflicted them, THE MORE they MULTIPLIED and grew. And they were grieved because of the children of Israel.” (Exodus 1:12) Did you notice in the last part of this insightful verse that the enemies of the LORD are “grieved” because of God’s blessing on your life as you serve Him in sincerity and in truth?

***HAVE you noticed that the more satan attacks you, the more God blesses? This is a fact of history, for all generations of God’s people. Let’s rejoice in this truth together again ….“But the more they (the Egyptian enemies of God) afflicted them (God’s people), THE MORE they MULTIPLIED and GREW. And they (God’s enemies) were grieved because of the children of Israel.” (Exodus 1:12) If you obey God you are going to be getting His Word out to people and you will at times find yourself in a fire storm of satan’s attacks through his human agents, usually the wicked wolves who feign to be Christian leaders (Matthew 7:6; 23; Mark 4:17). Great blessings flowed in many realms when the earliest disciples of Jesus were attacked by the religionists of their day. – “And with great power gave the apostles witness of the resurrection of the Lord Jesus: and great grace was upon them all. 34 Neither was there any among them that lacked …” (Acts 4:33-34)

‎”Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you: 13 But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ’s sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy. 14 If ye be reproached for the name of Christ, happy are ye; for the spirit of glory and of God resteth upon you: on their part he is evil spoken of, but on your part he is glorified.” 1 Peter 4:12-14

Yes, this persecution should be worn as a badge of honor – that you are even worthy to suffer for Christ’s holy name! Rejoice!

Gutless moral cowards who hold positions of influence and leadership refuse to preach on this Bible topic of the suffering of persecution for Christ’s sake. Jesus spoke much about this… so why don’t they who pretend to be representing Him? They are false. To not speak of this topic is to misrepresent Jesus Christ. …. Jesus promised that those who truly followed Him would be “Hated” … “And ye shall be hated of all men for my name’s sake: but he that endureth to the end shall be saved.” (Matthew 10:22) ….. The Son of God also promised that great blessings now and in eternity will be given to those who truly follow Him … “Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness’ sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 11 Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake. 12 Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you.” (Matthew 5:10-12)

Deceivers like Joel Osteen and many would-be celebrity and local “pastors” preach a message of “blessing” that does not include persecution. They withhold this vital truth and fact so as not to disturb their own popularity and funds. People who are not honestly seeking divine truth will be snared and ultimately damned by this false message (2 Thessalonians 2:10-12; 2 Timothy 4:2-4).

Beguilers who ignore and withhold vital divine truth, and their prey may appear to prosper in this fleeting life and yet, it’s not what God defines as true prosperity and it shall be short lived.

“That the triumphing of the wicked is short, and the joy of the hypocrite but for a moment?” Job 20:5

If you truly follow Christ, you are communicating His truth and you will be attacked, lied about, afflicted, and persecuted. Many false witness rose up against David, against our LORD, and against all who have ever served Him (Psalms 27:12; 35:11; Matthew 26:60; Acts 6:13). Jesus promised they would rise up against us yet their tenure shall be brief and their torment eternal (Matthew 5:11). You will also be blessed! When Stephen spoke God’s Word and was being stoned, Jesus actually stood up at the Father’s right hand to cheer on His son Stephen and to welcome him into eternal glory!

“But he, being full of the Holy Ghost, looked up stedfastly into heaven, and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing on the right hand of God, ⁵⁶And said, Behold, I see the heavens opened, and the Son of man standing on the right hand of God. ⁵⁷Then they cried out with a loud voice, and stopped their ears, and ran upon him with one accord, ⁵⁸And cast him out of the city, and stoned him: and the witnesses laid down their clothes at a young man’s feet, whose name was Saul. ⁵⁹And they stoned Stephen, calling upon God, and saying, Lord Jesus, receive my spirit. ⁶⁰And he kneeled down, and cried with a loud voice, Lord, lay not this sin to their charge. And when he had said this, he fell asleep.” Acts 7:55-60

At Stephen’s preaching of the Word of God, the wicked religionists “were cut to the heart, and they gnashed on him with their teeth.” (Acts 7:54) Jesus promised we would also be persecuted for speaking God’s Word and that if “all men speak well of” us, it’s because we are not truly serving Him (Mark 4:17; Luke 6:26). Persecution is actually proof that one is serving Christ.

Are you personally a part of this “company” – the people in the earth who publish or distribute and communicate God’s Word? – “The Lord gave the word: great was the company of those that published it.” (Psalms 68:11) If you speak and communicate divine truth, Christ promised that “persecution ariseth for the word’s sake.” (Mark 4:17)

God knows who we are so don’t worry what man thinks for says. Your time in this fleeting world is brief and as a child of the King, you should sprint to the finish, making the Word of God known to many (Psalms 68:11; 126:5-6; 1 Corinthians 9:16-22; Hebrews 12:1-3). The LORD knows who YOU are beloved saint. He knows that He forgave your sins when you confessed them and He knows that you do not merit His blessed and sheer mercy, yet He gave and gives it to you anyway – because He loves you and you obey Him in coming to Him, falling upon His mercy in repentance.

“Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost; ⁶Which he shed on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Saviour.” Titus 3:5-6

We should not be surprised when the things Jesus promised would happen to us happen such as “ALL manner of evil” (false accusations) being spoken about us (Matthew 5:11).

God is good brothers and sisters. Not one of us ever deserved nor presently deserves the infinite mercy He has and is showing us ONLY THROUGH THE LORD JESUS AND HIS PRECIOUS BLOOD. Remember that the very wolf or wolves who are being used of satan to accuse you, are in need of the mercy of God and they don’t merit it and are sinful, depraved souls who must repent or they surely will perish as unrepentant, slanderous railers (1 Corinthians 5:5-13).

The Bible tells us that “We are more than conquerors THROUGH HIM THAT LOVED US” and nothing shall separate us from God’s love (Romans 8:37-39). This righteousness is imputed to us on the behalf of Christ alone and not because we are anything in ourselves outside of Jesus but solely due to who He is (2 Corinthians 5:19-21).

Do you know what these attacks are going to do for you? God is going to use them to conform you to Christ’s holy image (Romans 8:28-29). These attacks are going to cause you to hasten closer to Him, falling afresh upon His abundant mercy. Amen? The work of God in your heart is going to do several good things. You are going to be much more merciful and tender towards others and be able to help and comfort them in their afflictions (2 Corinthians 1:2-5; Ephesians 4:32). His work in your heart is also going to make you ignore slander about others and cause you to actually love that victim of slander and railing more.

Realize it or not, we all (that includes you, I, and all others) so desperately need His blessed, present mercy. Is that not what being broken in spirit and “poor in spirit” will teach us? (Psalms 34:18; 51:17; Matthew 5:3)

Someone has wisely noted:

“Jacob was a cheater, Peter had a temper, David had an affair, Noah got drunk, Jonah ran from God, Paul was a murderer, Gideon was insecure, Miriam was a gossiper, Martha was a worrier, Thomas was a doubter, Sara was impatient, Elijah was moody, Moses stuttered, Zaccheus was short, Abraham was old,… and Lazarus was dead…. Now, what’s YOUR excuse? Can God use you or not? God doesn’t CALL the QUALIFIED, He QUALIFIES the CALLED.”

Paul wrote “But by the grace of God I am what I am: and his grace which was bestowed upon me was not in vain; but I laboured more abundantly than they all: yet not I, but the grace of God which was with me.” 1 Corinthians 15:10

God Himself really only cares about the NOW! So what if the things being said of you are true – they are in the past and if you have repented and confessed those sins, you are clean and clear from them in the eyes of a holy God who gave us the blood of His only begotten Son for our sins! (Isaiah 1:16-20; 44:22; Hebrews 4:14-16; 7:24-25; 1 John 1:7, 9; 2:1-2, etc.). The person or persons slandering you need prayer and/or to be turned over to satan (1 Corinthians 5:5-13). If they do not repent and confess their sins, they will perish in the lake of fire. Digging up past sins that God already forgiven in the work of “ungodly” people (Proverbs 16:27-28).

Of sufferings and persecutions, one writer notes:

“‘In those days saw I in Judah some treading wine presses on the sabbath, and bringing in sheaves, and lading asses; as also wine, grapes, and figs, and all manner of burdens, which they brought into Jerusalem on the sabbath day: and I testified against them in the day wherein they sold victuals.’ Nehemiah 13:15

The grapes had to be trampled before the joyous wine could flow. Embrace those who curse and tread on you. They are really friends in disguise. Love your enemies and bless those who curse you as Matthew 5 says. They are producing more of the joy of Christ in your life. The cross is today’s winepress.”

David knew this truth. Persecution is the occasion for God to stack on more blessings for His persecuted child. The mockings and slander of the wicked becomes the springboard of God for more blessings in your life. So, in light of this, we should boldly declare “Bring it on devil!”

Shimei’s Slander of David

“And when king David came to Bahurim, behold, thence came out a man of the family of the house of Saul, whose name was Shimei, the son of Gera: he came forth, and cursed still as he came. 6 And he cast stones at David, and at all the servants of king David: and all the people and all the mighty men were on his right hand and on his left. 7 And thus said Shimei when he cursed, Come out, come out, thou bloody man, and thou man of Belial: 8 The Lord hath returned upon thee all the blood of the house of Saul, in whose stead thou hast reigned; and the Lord hath delivered the kingdom into the hand of Absalom thy son: and, behold, thou art taken in thy mischief, because thou art a bloody man. 9 Then said Abishai the son of Zeruiah unto the king, Why should this dead dog curse my lord the king? let me go over, I pray thee, and take off his head. 10 And the king said, What have I to do with you, ye sons of Zeruiah? so let him curse, because the Lord hath said unto him, Curse David. Who shall then say, Wherefore hast thou done so? 11 And David said to Abishai, and to all his servants, Behold, my son, which came forth of my bowels, seeketh my life: how much more now may this Benjamite do it? let him alone, and let him curse; for the Lord hath bidden him. 12 It may be that the Lord will look on mine affliction, and that the Lord will requite (repay) me good for his cursing this day.” 2 Samuel 16:5-12

Has God yet allowed a slanderous, accusing wolf like Shimei into your life? ACCORDING to 2 Samuel 16:5-12, what should be our response to those who speak evil, falsely accuse, or try to rub our noses in a past sin? What did David understand that we should understand? Here was David’s response:

“LET HIM ALONE, and let him curse; for the Lord hath bidden him. 12 It may be that the Lord will look on mine affliction, and that the Lord will requite (repay) me good for his cursing this day.” 2 Samuel 16:11-12

In other words King David was saying “Don’t you dare stop that man from cursing me! I need all of the blessings and benefits God will bestow upon me! In fact, this man’s cursings are opening the floodgates for more blessings in my life in order to serve the LORD more fully!”

Personally, I have never been SO blessed in EVERY single area of my life as when satan’s wolves started falsely and fictitiously making up stories about me! Bring it on devil! Now pore over 2 Samuel 16:5-12 and notice how God uses those occasions to multiply His blessings upon His children who are the object of the attacks!!! Bring it on devil! I need more of God’s blessings in my life!!!!

These persecutions actually reveal who the wolves are amongst us, posing as ministers of Christ (2 Cor. 11:12-15). Thank You Jesus!

At first I was horrified by the things that were being manufactured about me. But now, after going through that, the LORD has made my heart much more sound as He promised He would do. Check this out precious saint:

“But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you.” 1 Peter 5:10

All who slander and do not repent have their place reserved in the lake of fire. Railers are specifically named as sinners who are to be turned over to Satan according to 1 Corinthians 5. Did you realize that? Go read that chapter again closely!

Persecutions are the manifest token/proof that you are a true child of the King!

“Now thanks be unto God, which always causeth us to triumph in Christ, and maketh manifest the savour of his knowledge by us in every place. 15 For we are unto God a sweet savour of Christ, in them that are saved, and in them that perish: 16 To the one we are the savour of death unto death; and to the other the savour of life unto life. And who is sufficient for these things? 17 For we are not as many, which corrupt the word of God: but as of sincerity, but as of God, in the sight of God speak we in Christ.” 2 Corinthians 2:14-17

There are hypocrites who have the stupidity and audacity to slander a brother or sister for one of those 6 sins in 1 Corinthians 5 while they are actually COMMITTING another one of those sins – the sin of railing.

But our sentence comes from God, not any mere sinful man – “Let my sentence come forth from thy presence; let thine eyes behold the things that are equal.” (Psalms 17:2)

Many times, those who slander try to make their personal condemnation palatable by putting God’s name on it. This is what the LORD meant when He said “Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord thy God in vain; for the Lord will not hold him guiltless that taketh his name in vain.” (Exodus 20:7) They have the audacity to put the holy name of the LORD on their slander (James 1:20). These railers call their evil report against someone created in God’s image His inspiration and truth when in reality it is the fruit of their own wicked imaginations coming out of their own depraved heart.

Saints, do not allow or facilitate any slander of the enemy! Get rid of it immediately and rebuke the evil doer who would dare do Satan’s work like a coward who won’t go DIRECTLY to the person they have a question or concern about! Go read Prov. 25:9; Matt. 18:15. Such a person is a child of Satan himself of whom the Bible tells us:

“Now is come salvation, and strength, and the kingdom of our God, and the power of his Christ: for the accuser of our brethren is cast down, which accused them before our God day and night.” Revelation 12:10

Those who are the remnant of Christ’s elect walk in love and that means they don’t slander others – only Satan’s children slander others and then call it marking their victim. Under the guise of marking a person, some have maliciously slandered and sown discord among the brethren (Proverbs 6:16-19).

“The words of his mouth were smoother than butter, but war was in his heart: his words were softer than oil, yet were they drawn swords.” Psalms 55:21

The clear proof that one is saved is God’s LOVE in their life – “Marvel not, my brethren, if the world hate you. 14 We know that we have passed from death unto life, because we love the brethren. He that loveth not his brother abideth in death. 15 Whosoever hateth his brother is a murderer: and ye know that no murderer hath eternal life abiding in him.” (1 John 3:13-15)

Remember that it doesn’t matter what people say about you when your whole life is all about Jesus. No sin of the past, if you have repented, defines who you are today. So, don’t let any child of Satan who is posing as a Christian, rub your nose in your past sins. In fact, that’s the time to rejoice.

“Who shall lay any thing to the charge of God’s elect? It is God that justifieth. 34 Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us.” Romans 8:33-34

Matthew 10 answers so many questions and sets our expectations as His disciples:

“Behold, I send you forth as sheep in the midst of wolves: be ye therefore wise as serpents, and harmless as doves. 17 But beware of men: for they will deliver you up to the councils, and they will scourge you in their synagogues; 18 And ye shall be brought before governors and kings for my sake, for a testimony against them and the Gentiles. 19 But when they deliver you up, take no thought how or what ye shall speak: for it shall be given you in that same hour what ye shall speak. 20 For it is not ye that speak, but the Spirit of your Father which speaketh in you. 21 And the brother shall deliver up the brother to death, and the father the child: and the children shall rise up against their parents, and cause them to be put to death. 22 And ye shall be hated of all men for my name’s sake: but he that endureth to the end shall be saved. 23 But when they persecute you in this city, flee ye into another: for verily I say unto you, Ye shall not have gone over the cities of Israel, till the Son of man be come. 24 The disciple is not above his master, nor the servant above his lord. 25 It is enough for the disciple that he be as his master, and the servant as his lord. If they have called the master of the house Beelzebub, how much more shall they call them of his household? 26 Fear them not therefore: for there is nothing covered, that shall not be revealed; and hid, that shall not be known. 27 What I tell you in darkness, that speak ye in light: and what ye hear in the ear, that preach ye upon the housetops. 28 And fear not them which kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul: but rather fear him which is able to destroy both soul and body in hell.” Matthew 10:16-28

If we only knew the blessings that await our being persecuted, perhaps we would say “Bring it on Devil!”

Of sufferings the life and sufferings of the beloved Joseph, F.B. Meyer relates:

“If he (Joseph) could have foreseen the future, he would not have wondered at the severe discipline. If only we could see all that awaits us in the palace of the Great King, we should not be so surprised at certain experiences which befall us in earth’s darker cells. You are being trained for service I God’s Home, and in the upper spaces of the universe.” F.B. Meyer, Joseph, p. 48

Concerning sufferings, the Son of God and His apostles taught this:

“Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness’ sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 11 Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake. 12 Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you.” Matthew 5:10-12

“But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.” 1 Corinthians 2:9

“Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you: 13 But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ’s sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy. 14 If ye be reproached for the name of Christ, happy are ye; for the spirit of glory and of God resteth upon you: on their part he is evil spoken of, but on your part he is glorified.” 1 Peter 4:12-14

Of suffering, Janet Hagen notes:

“God puts every one of our tears in His bottle. Out of God’s great fullness and sufficiency He will recompense back to you all that has been temporarily lost. I am so aware in recent months that loss and rejection from people who should love us seems to be our spiritual training ground of sorts. Boy, is it ever a tough painful road. Yet, God WILL recompense if we stay true to him, amen?”

Plagued by the Judgment of Others? | The More I Suffer, the Freer I Become! | For more on the blessing of suffering with Christ, study the life of Joseph in Genesis 37-50. | The Great Benefit of Suffering by F.B. Meyer |

Contact

Join Us

We saved a place for you to receive our weekly newsletter.

Please wait...

Thank you for signing up!

The More I Suffer, the Freer I Become

Having a Heart after the LORD

Getting Gospel Grounded [podcast]

Articles

The Sure Mercies of David [podcast]

What exactly does the Bible mean by the phrase “the sure mercies of David”?

The divine guarantee in Christ is that God’s mercies are upon your life, is available to you – as His divine mercies were upon the beloved David, from whose lineage came the promised Messiah. This grants no license for sin, which leads to judgment – now and forever (Romans 11:20-22; Hebrews 10:26-39; 2 Peter 2:20-21). God’s mercy in no way negates the biblical truth that we must all reap what we sow (Galatians 6:7-8).

Biblical examples of Sinful People God Forgave:

Adam and Eve (Genesis 3).
David (2 Samuel 11-12; Psalms 51).
The prodigal son (Luke 15).
One of the two men who stood before the LORD to pray (Luke 18:9-14).
Peter (Matthew 26:26-69, Luke 22:31-32; John 21:15-17).
Thief on the cross (Luke 23:42-43).
Woman taken in adultery (John 8).
The fornicator in Corinth (1 Corinthians 5; 2 Corinthians 2).

According to Ezekiel 16:8-13 and many other Bible passages, God takes care of His beloved people.

Just as was the case with our earthly parents, so God took care of us, of you, when you couldn’t take care of yourself, He, your loving heavenly Father was there, tenderly taking care of you.

“Now when I passed by thee, and looked upon thee, behold, thy time was the time of love; and I spread my skirt over thee, and covered thy nakedness: yea, I sware unto thee, and entered into a covenant with thee, saith the Lord GOD, and thou becamest mine. 9 Then washed I thee with water; yea, I throughly washed away thy blood from thee, and I anointed thee with oil. 10 I clothed thee also with broidered work, and shod thee with badgers’ skin, and I girded thee about with fine linen, and I covered thee with silk. 11 I decked thee also with ornaments, and I put bracelets upon thy hands, and a chain on thy neck. 12 And I put a jewel on thy forehead, and earrings in thine ears, and a beautiful crown upon thine head. 13 Thus wast thou decked with gold and silver; and thy raiment was of fine linen, and silk, and broidered work; thou didst eat fine flour, and honey, and oil: and thou wast exceeding beautiful, and thou didst prosper into a kingdom.” Ezekiel 16:8-13

The LORD saved Paul as an example to us – to every vile sinner to be born thereafter.

“This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief. 16 Howbeit for this cause I obtained mercy, that in me first Jesus Christ might shew forth all longsuffering, for a pattern to them which should hereafter believe on him to life everlasting. 17 Now unto the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only wise God, be honour and glory for ever and ever. Amen.” 1 Timothy 1:15-17

“Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, 14 I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 3:13-14

IF God forgave David and told you that in Christ you have “the sure mercies of David,” why wouldn’t He freely forgive you? (Isaiah 55:3-4; Acts 13:34) If God forgave the fornicator of 1 Corinthians 5 in 2 Corinthians 2, WHY wouldn’t He freely forgive your sins? Return to Him, confess all sin, forget the past, and “press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 3:13-14).

The “sure mercies of David” are exclusively reserved for those who are in Christ!

What is meant by the phrase we read in God’s Word “the sure mercies of David”?

“Incline your ear, and come unto me: hear, and your soul shall live; and I will make an everlasting covenant with you, even the sure mercies of David. 4 Behold, I have given him for a witness to the people, a leader and commander to the people.” Isaiah 55:3-4

“55:2-5 In its alienation from God, Israel has been wasting its energy and resources. True satisfaction and lasting pleasure are found only in the Lord. If Israel returns to the Lord, they will receive all the sure mercies promised to David in the everlasting covenant (see Psa_89:3-4, Psa_89:28-29). These blessings are fulfilled in the Lord Jesus and in His glorious reign. The Gentile nations, too, will share in the benefits of the kingdom, and there will be amicable relations between Israel and the nations.” Believer’s Bible Commentary

“the sure mercies of David” … yes those words definitely are so beautiful….. when we realize how wicked we are, we will find no stone to cast at any other. Instead we will send out the life saving message of “the sure mercies of David” which are in Christ.

UNTIL, as an individual, you begin to realize just how wicked you really are, you will never begin to appreciate what our KING and Savior did on that cross!

Read this verse carefully:

“For he shall have judgment without mercy, that hath shewed no mercy; and mercy rejoiceth against judgment.” James 2:13

Recently, someone asked me what is meant by “mercy rejoiceth against judgment”? Reply: God’s mercy is greater than the judgment of sin…… His mercy is powerfully forgiving. The LORD would clearly rather bestow His mercy upon sinners than His judgment.

“But God commendeth (exhibited) his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” Romans 5:8

“The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.” 2 Peter 3:9

All men have sinned against our Maker and yet the LORD is so very good that He “gave his only begotten Son” to be sacrificed for “the sins of the whole world” so that none “should perish” (John 3:16-17; 1 John 2:1-2; 2 Peter 3:9).

I love this verse which puts it all in perspective…. “And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you” (Ephesians 4:32).

Stay in the mirror – the Word. When we are not in the Word we forget just how wicked WE are, how in desperate need WE are of God’s mercy, and that’s when we judge others when we should be extending that bless-ed divine mercy upon them.

“For if any be a hearer of the word, and not a doer, he is like unto a man beholding his natural face in a glass (mirror): 24 For he beholdeth himself, and goeth his way, and straightway forgetteth what manner of man he was. 25 But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty (Gospel), and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed.” James 1:23-25

God freely forgives His people on the basis of Christ’s perfect sacrifice…. and requires that we forgive all others as He freely forgives unworthy sinners like us on behalf of the perfect sacrifice of Jesus on the cross. We are unworthy in and of ourselves. Jesus’ righteousness alone provides for our salvation, the justification of God.

If God were not a forgiving God who restores the backslidden, NOT EVEN ONE of us would still be alive and headed for eternal glory.

It takes no less than to read Jesus’ 3 parables which make up Luke 15 to witness this glorious truth concerning His great mercy! Read it afresh with the restorational love of our God in mind!

Well, most of us would admit that we are not sinless… and sin is sin…. because God is holy….. and so we should have no stone of condemnation to cast at anyone except ourselves for any sin we committed in the past 😉

“Judge not, and ye shall not be judged: condemn not, and ye shall not be condemned: forgive, and ye shall be forgiven:” Luke 6:37

Does God forgive all sins? Yes, all except one…

“Wherefore I say unto you, All manner of sin and blasphemy shall be forgiven unto men: but the blasphemy against the Holy Ghost shall not be forgiven unto men. 32 And whosoever speaketh a word against the Son of man, it shall be forgiven him: but whosoever speaketh against the Holy Ghost, it shall not be forgiven him, neither in this world, neither in the world to come.” Matthew 12:31-32

Well Judas committed perhaps the worst sin in history by betraying Christ and yet Jesus offered him mercy but he refused it.

Note that even in the midst of Judas betraying the innocent Son of God, Jesus called Judas, the traitor “friend.” This would clearly convey that Christ had his forgiveness in mind, had the desire to restore him.

“And Jesus said unto him, FRIEND, wherefore art thou come? Then came they, and laid hands on Jesus, and took him.” Matthew 26:50

Of this verse where even while betraying the LORD Jesus, He refers to Judas as His “friend” or companion, Adam Clarke writes:

“Jesus said – Friend – Rather, companion, wherefore, rather, against whom art thou come? How must these words have cut his very soul, if he had any sensibility left! Surely, thou, who hast so long been my companion, art not come against me, thy Lord, Teacher and Friend! What is the human heart not capable of, when abandoned by God, and influenced by Satan and the love of money!”

God’s Word informs us that the LORD will love us all the way into hell if we choose to refuse to turn back to Him. Nothing “shall be able to separate us from the love (not life) of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Romans 8:38-39.) We see such unconditional love extended from the Savior upon the very man who was previously His close companion, one hand picked by the LORD Jesus and promised an eternal throne (Matthew 19:28). All men are given free will – till they die (Deuteronomy 30:19; Joshua 24:15, etc.). Instead of turning back to the Lamb of Glory before it was too late, Judas chose to kiss the Gate of Heaven and turn and plunge headlong into eternal hell (Acts 1:25).

God’s love is unconditional but His acceptance is not. | The Truth about Judas

“I would have been eternally lost if not for Jesus’ parable in Luke 15…O, may the prodigal, lost in this world, hear the good news, turn, and repent before its too late. O the tender mercies of God!” Jon Crane

As we see illustrated in Luke 15, RE-TURNING, turning back to God (repentance) is always the answer (Hosea 14:1-2). Denying such a need simply prolongs the separation and the misery of being in sin (Isaiah 59:2; Romans 6:23). Just ask the prodigal son in Luke 15. Take a fresh look at the before and after on his life! Our loving heavenly Father, His mercy and desire to restore the fallen is so beautifully depicted in the three parables which makes up Luke 15.

Take a look at what our glorious LORD and Savior is depicting, is showing each of us in His parables of the lost sheep, silver, and son.

Mankind is already fallen, condemned, and separated from Him in sin. Never forget beloved that Jesus came to save and not to destroy! That’s His stated desire and will (Psalms 86:5, 15; Luke 9:56; 19:10; John 3:17; 1 Timothy 1:15, etc.).

ALL sin is first and foremost committed against God, not man. God is the only law giver who determines what sin is (James 4:11-12).

ANY sin one would commit is first and foremost against our Maker, God Himself.

“Against thee, thee only, have I sinned, and done this evil in thy sight: that thou mightest be justified when thou speakest, and be clear when thou judgest.” Psalms 51:4

God is the only One who is “Holy, holy, holy” (Isaiah 6:3; Revelation 4:8).

David is forever a trophy of God, set forth with the characteristic of the Messiah….. and yet, like all men, he fell, and was shown mercy….. in this we take heart and are forged with confidence by this example that if God forgave David, He will surely forgive and show mercy upon my life…. the key is to have a heart after God, which causes us to be honest and repent and confess all sin (Ps. 51).

“And as concerning that he raised him up from the dead, now no more to return to corruption, he said on this wise, I will give you the sure mercies of David.” Acts 13:34

The promise of “the sure mercies of David”

“I Jesus have sent mine angel to testify unto you these things in the churches. I am the root and the offspring of David, and the bright and morning star.” Revelation 22:16

“The sure mercies of David” are secure to us in Christ because they are from our loving merciful God who forgive the beloved David.

God’s people are commanded to forgive others, to show them mercy toward, upon others as God has showed us His mercy in our sin.

“And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.” Ephesians 4:32

Join Us

We saved a place for you to receive our weekly newsletter.

Please wait...

Thank you for signing up!

Unconditional Acceptance? [podcast]

Wolves Who Wield Twisted Swords “These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so.” Acts 17:11 What many today do is confuse unconditional love with God-given free will and they erroneously equate unconditional love with unconditional acceptance, which is a lie. Even though He’s “not willing that any should perish,” God will love us all the way into hell if we choose not to turn back to Him (2 Peter 3:9). Any person who does not meet His conditions will […]

"I will have Mercy, and not Sacrifice": What does this really Mean? [podcast]

“But go ye and learn what that meaneth, I will have mercy, and not sacrifice: for I am not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.” Matthew 9:13 Jesus specifically instructs us to “go ye and learn what that meaneth.” UNTIL, as an individual, you begin to realize just how wicked you really are, you will never begin to appreciate what our KING and Savior did on that cross! Matthew 9:9-13 – Jesus calls Matthew Mat 9:9 And as Jesus passed forth from thence, he saw a man, named Matthew, sitting at the receipt of custom: and […]

Love Mercy [podcast]

“He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the LORD require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?” Micah 6:8 We should never lose sight of the fact that the very same precious blood that was shed for our sins was also shed for the sins of any and all we may be tempted to condemn. They also can be forgiven even as God has so mercifully forgiven us. With this in mind, may God bless each of us to “Love mercy.” (Micah 6:8) Growing up […]

Aren't You Glad God is the Judge and Not Man? [podcast]

David’s 3 Choices “If thou, LORD, shouldest mark iniquities, O Lord, who shall stand?” Psalms 130:3 After David had sinned grossly against God, he was given 3 choices of reaping what he had sowed (Galatians 6:7-8). David had already repented and confessed his sin with Bathsheba and had been forgiven by God and yet, he had to reap what he’d sowed. David had committed adultery and having Bathsheba’s husband killed, numbering Israel, etc., he was given 3 choices to reap what he’d sowed…. “And David said unto Gad, I am in a great strait: let us fall now into the […]

Articles

Following Christ’s Great Commission Command [podcast]

The future belongs exclusively to Jesus Christ and His followers. Read the book of Revelation!

“And Jesus said unto him, No man, having put his hand to the plough, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God.” Luke 9:62

Is your hand on “the plough” – that which God has called you to do in His kingdom work? Have you looked back?

“Take heed to the ministry which thou hast received in the Lord, that thou fulfil it.” Colossians 4:17

Have you grown weary in well doing?

“And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.” Galatians 6:9

Are you obeying God by forgetting, by putting behind you the past – good and bad? Declare aloud in prayer before the LORD today: “forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, 14 I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 3:13-14)

“Redeeming the time, because the days are evil.” Ephesians 5:16

GOD WILL REWARD ACCORDINGLY

“And he that reapeth receiveth wages, and gathereth fruit unto life eternal: that both he that soweth and he that reapeth may rejoice together.” John 4:36

ALL WHO PARTICIPATE IN GOD’S WORK WILL BE EQUALLY REWARDED!!!

DO YOUR MISSION. Colossians 4:17

Think about this…..

Every laborer of Christ, no matter what small part he plays in God’s work, will be equally rewarded.

“For who will hearken unto you in this matter? but as his part is that goeth down to the battle, so shall his part be that tarrieth by the stuff: they shall part alike.” 1 Samuel 30:24

Are we praying this specific prayer?

Whatever you do, never cease to preach Christ’s original Gospel!

The Harvest Is Plentiful, the Laborers Few

“And Jesus went about all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing every sickness and every disease among the people. 36 But when he saw the multitudes, he was moved with compassion on them, because they fainted, and were scattered abroad, as sheep having no shepherd. 37 Then saith he unto his disciples, The harvest truly is plenteous, but the labourers are few; 38 Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he will send forth labourers into his harvest.” Matthew 9:35-38

Being kingdom minded means that your life is all about King Jesus and you are living a life of prayer, busy about the ¨Father´s business¨, waiting with baited breath to jump in and engage in and support the teaching, preaching, spreading, the communication of God´s Word – fulfilling the Great Commission Jesus gave us (Matthew 28:18-20; Mark 16:15-20).

Whose business are you about today – Christ´s or your own?

The answer to this question plainly reveals which kingdom you are in – Christ´s or Satan´s. The remnant body of Christ is all about the ¨Father´s business.¨ (Luke 2:49)

Sign up for free email devotional HERE... The Moments with My Master email devotional is sent out for the edification of the body of Christ.

Join Us

We saved a place for you to receive our weekly newsletter.

Please wait...

Thank you for signing up!

What is the Great Commission? [podcast]

What is the Great Commission? Who gave it? Who was the Great Commission given to? The Great Commission is simply the spreading of Jesus’ Word by teaching it to the world. Jesus gave it. He gave it to all of His people and holds each of them personally responsible for fulfilling it. Each of us will give full account to Him in this specific matter when we stand to be judged by Him. The Great Commission “And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. 19 Go ye therefore, and […]

The Demand for the JESUS Tract is at an all-time High! [podcast]

UPDATE: This week a man came into the coffee shop smiling at me. I smiled back instantly, greeted him, and gave him a JESUS tract …. he smiled even bigger and pulled out a copy of the JESUS tract! He already had one but gladly took the new one I gave him to give to someone else! No different than how our LORD multiplied the 5 loaves and 2 fishes, He multiplies exponentially the small offerings His children give back to Him now – to accomplish the very thing He sent His only begotten Son to do, to save mankind! […]

Clothed in White Raiment [podcast]

It’s not going to be a black tie but rather a white robe event! WHAT’s the use of talking about end times and the events of these final days if we aren’t even going to be “READY” when Jesus does return? “Be ye therefore ready also: for the Son of man cometh at an hour when ye think not.” Luke 12:40 To the Church in Sardis “And unto the angel of the church in Sardis write; These things saith he that hath the seven Spirits of God, and the seven stars; I know thy works, that thou hast a name […]

Abiding

Chosen, Ordained, Joyfully Fruitful [podcast]

“Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain: that whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in my name, he may give it you.” John 15:16

“Ye have not chosen me”
“I have chosen you”
“and ordained you”
“that ye should go and bring forth fruit”
“and that your fruit should remain”

Of this truth, the Believer’s Bible Commentary notes the following:

“15:16 Lest there be any tendency for them to become discouraged and give up, Jesus reminded them that He was the One who chose them. This may mean that He chose them to eternal salvation, to discipleship, or to fruitfulness. He had appointed the disciples to the work which lay before them. We should go and bear fruit. Fruit may mean the graces of the Christian life, such as love, joy, peace, etc. Or it may mean souls won for the Lord Jesus Christ. There is a close link between the two. It is only as we are manifesting the first kind of fruit that we will ever be able to bring forth the second.

The expression “that your fruit should remain” leads us to think that fruit here means the salvation of souls. The Lord chose the disciples to go and bring forth lasting fruit. He was not interested in mere professions of faith in Himself, but in genuine cases of salvation. L. S. Chafer notes that in this chapter we have prayer effectual (v. 7), joy celestial (v. 11), and fruit perpetual (v. 16). “That whatever you ask … .” The secret of effective service is prayer. The disciples were sent forth with the guarantee that the Father would grant them whatever they asked in Christ’s name.”

Adam Clarke writes;

“The first ministers of the Gospel were the choice of Jesus Christ; no wonder, then, that they were so successful. Those whom men have since sent, without the appointment of God, have done no good. The choice should still continue with God, who, knowing the heart, knows best who is most proper for the Gospel ministry.

To be a genuine preacher of the Gospel, a man must –

1. Be chosen of God to the work.
2. He must be placed in the true vine – united to Christ by faith.
3. He must not think to lead an idle life, but labor.
4. He must not wait till work be brought to him, but he must go and seek it.
5. He must labor so as to bring forth fruit, i.e. to get souls converted to the Lord.
6. He must refer all his fruit to God, who gave him the power to labor, and blessed him in his work.
7. He must take care to water what he has planted, that his fruit may remain – that the souls whom he has gathered in be not scattered from the flock.
8. He must continue instant in prayer, that his labors may be accompanied with the presence and blessing of God – Whatsoever ye shall Ask.
9. He must consider Jesus Christ as the great Mediator between God and man, proclaim his salvation, and pray in his name. – Whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in my name, etc. See Quesnel.”

God alone ordains His people to His work and brings them through many purging seasons to cause His fruitfulness in them, preparing them to bear more of His fruit. God chose us and blessed us with the ability to repent and receive Christ. As His people, He’s also ordained us to “go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain.”

As we read this discourse from our LORD (John 15 and 17), we discover that He is speaking of that abiding fellowship we have with Him, and how out of it is borne the good fruit of His ministry in and through our life.

Being rooted in that oneness, the abiding relationship with Christ, is all-important to our relationship with Him and the Father. As his student, His disciple, may the reader be encouraged to pour prayerfully over these truths captured, and given to us in John, chapters 15 and 17.

Isaiah 43

“But now thus saith the LORD that created thee, O Jacob, and he that formed thee, O Israel, Fear not: for I have redeemed thee, I have called thee by thy name; thou art mine. 2 When thou passest through the waters, I will be with thee; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow thee: when thou walkest through the fire, thou shalt not be burned; neither shall the flame kindle upon thee. 3 For I am the LORD thy God, the Holy One of Israel, thy Saviour: I gave Egypt for thy ransom, Ethiopia and Seba for thee. 4 Since thou wast precious in my sight, thou hast been honourable, and I have loved thee: therefore will I give men for thee, and people for thy life. 5 Fear not: for I am with thee … “

Prayer: Heavenly Father, in the name of Jesus, please make me one with You. Please deeply root and establish my life in an abiding fellowship with You dear LORD.

Moments with Our Master [book] 365 Day Devotional book available at STORE and amazon. English and Spanish.

Join Us

We saved a place for you to receive our weekly newsletter.

Please wait...

Thank you for signing up!

"Fruitful in the Land of My Affliction" [podcast]

FORGETTING AND BEING FRUITFUL ! God’s Word speaks about forgetting the things that are behind us (Philippians 3:13-14) and also speak volumes about abiding in Christ and being fruitful (John 15). Forgetting leads to fruitfulness. Let go and let God. “Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, 14 I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 3:13-14 G1950 ἐπιλανθάνομαι epilanthanomai ep-ee-lan-than’-om-ahee Middle voice from G1909 and G2990; to […]

"I Desire Fruit that May Abound to Your Account" [podcast]

“Not because I desire a gift: but I desire fruit that may abound to your account.” Philippians 4:17 Did you realize that as a born again disciple of Jesus, that you have an “account” in Heaven? “Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: 20 but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal: 21 for where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.” Matthew 6:19-21 Laying up treasure in […]

"For I Know that in me (that is, in my flesh,) dwelleth no Good Thing" [podcast]

The Key to Truly Appreciating the Saving Mercy of God Jesus, I want to be Yours, with no doubt and no matter what it takes! Please teach me Thy way dear LORD! Until the realization of the depth of my own poverty before God begins to set in, I will continue to trust in self. The poverty must be realized by the person before he can experience the blessing of the prize of Christ and His “so great salvation” (Hebrews 2:3). “For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh,) dwelleth no good thing: for to will […]