March, 2024 | THE BIBLE VIEW

The BIBLE VIEW #951 — Witnessing

In This Issue:
Winning Souls to Christ
We Are His Ambassadors
We just Deliver It!

Volume: 951 April 1, 2024
Theme: Witnessing

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Winning Souls to Christ
Bill Brinkworth

In John 4, we see Jesus got much encouragement and strength (John 4:32, 34) from doing what God desires all of us to do. He had the opportunity to speak to a Samaritan woman about spiritual things. He introduced her to the Messiah. We all would be likewise blessed if we did as our Saviour did.

A wise man (Proverbs 11:20) wins a soul for Heaven and robs Hell of victims. A born-again child of God is expected to tell others as Jesus did. We are not to be silent about the crucial business of eternity. We are commanded to broadcast God’s way to others and will be blessed for doing so.

In John 4:34-38, Jesus taught about telling others about God’s way to Heaven:

Now is the time to do it. Do not wait four months (John 4:35) or when you think the time is right. Too many say that telling others does not work now. Not true! People are getting saved all the time. There may be a person you work with or someone who lives across the street who desires that someone would tell them the Way. The harvest of souls for Heaven is ripe (John 4:35); go and tell someone. God will give the increase one day if you will go and tell!
When you win a soul, there will be eternal rewards (John 4:36). You will be encouraged, and even “crowns” are awarded in eternity for those who win souls. The person who gets saved through your telling them will also be rewarded with an eternity in Heaven.
“For what is our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing? Are not even ye in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at his coming?” I Thessalonians 2:19
“Holding forth the word of life; that I may rejoice in the day of Christ, that I have not run in vain, neither laboured in vain.” Philippians 2:16
A person who tells someone does not always win someone immediately. It is a team effort. Someone sows the seed of the hope and knowledge of Jesus and the way to Heaven. Often, another person will later lead the person to the Lord.

Maybe a mother or Sunday school teacher told the person about God’s plan for them in eternity. Nothing happened at the time. The person did not make a decision or did not believe enough to trust Christ as Saviour when they first heard the message. Later, a soul-winner came along (John 4:37) and led that person to a saving knowledge of the biblical way to Heaven.

If you are saved, you have a tremendous responsibility. That charge is to tell others about God’s way to Heaven. Have you told anyone today?

“Except for a temptation here and there, the devil has to do little to get the souls of men into Hell. ALL will go there unless they do what God has made the only way to escape a tormenting eternity! That way is by being born again. Christians must do all they can to win others to Christ so they can be saved from an agonizing eternity! — Bill Brinkworth

“The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life; and he that winneth souls is wise.”
Proverbs 11:30

We Just Deliver It!
Bill Brinkworth

I do not know if there are many boys or girls who deliver newspapers anymore. However, when I was younger, many my age would get bundles of the daily paper delivered to them, fold them, put them in their newspaper bag, and give them to their customers.

Every day, often first thing in the morning or after school, a bundle of local newspapers would be retrieved by a delivery person. They would do their best, no matter the weather or time, to get the paper for people to read.

If the customer had not opened and read the paper, his ignorance of what was happening in the world around him was not the delivery person’s fault. The paper was made available to him by the diligence of the newspaper deliverer.

Likewise, it is usually not a preacher’s or person delivering God’s message’s fault people do not heed the biblical warnings given to them. The spreader of the Good News obeyed what he was commanded to do from the Word of God. He did his part.

They were the delivery “boys.” Their efforts ensured God’s Word was put in the hands and ears of those needing to know His message. All the delivery person can do is get God’s Truths to others. No one can make anyone saved or be obedient to His commandments.

What are you doing with God’s message faithfully delivered to you? Did you listen intently? Were you convicted about something that was said? Did you go to the Lord, beg for His mercy and forgiveness, and intend to do as the Holy Spirit’s heartfelt “whisper” urged you to do? Or did the message go in one ear, and no obedience to the Holy Spirit’s calling ever followed? If so, you have been delivered God’s Good News. What will you do with His message?

“If people shared the Gospel like they do gossip, we’d have a major revival worldwide.”
— Author Unknown

We Are His Ambassadors
Bill Brinkworth

The apostle Paul was locked in a deep, dank dungeon for his testimony and preaching of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. He was separated from his friends, did not get the proper food and care, was isolated, and forgotten. Yet, he knew God was aware of his predicament and allowed him to be there for a reason.

Ephesians 6:20 explains why: “For which I am an ambassador in bonds: that therein I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak.” An ambassador is an important, special representative appointed to represent another power. Paul’s mission in prison was to be a representative of God.

As odd as many think Paul’s mission was, all Christians are called to be emissaries of Heaven. God may have them in a particular neighborhood, situation, hospital bed, job, or school for a specific opportunity. He wants them to deliver his message to people in that position. Often, no one else can reach them outside the position one finds oneself in.

We can be ambassadors for Heaven with our lives. Many are watching us in many situations, such as how we speak, act, react when angry or sad, or even dress. If we do not tell others about the goodness, mercy, and grace of God, and be a testimony for Him, who will?

The Bible tells us how we can tell others. We can be an emissary by:
Singing: Instead of the world hearing us sing their songs emphasizing adultery, drugs, sexuality, disobedience, and other ungodly actions, they should listen to us singing songs praising His goodness and mercy.
“Sing praises to the LORD, which dwelleth in Zion: declare among the people his doings.” Psalm 9:11

Talking:
“Sing unto him, sing psalms unto him, talk ye of all his wondrous works.” I Chronicles 16:9
“Now the man out of whom the devils were departed besought him that he might be with him: but Jesus sent him away, saying, Return to thine own house, and shew how great things God hath done unto thee. And he went his way, and published throughout the whole city how great things Jesus had done unto him.” Luke 8:38-39
“Also I say unto you, Whosoever shall confess me before men, him shall the Son of man also confess before the angels of God: But he that denieth me before men shall be denied before the angels of God.” Luke 12:8-9
“The woman then left her waterpot, and went her way into the city, and saith to the men, Come, see a man, which told me all things that ever I did: is not this the Christ?” John 4:28
“The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life; and he that winneth souls is wise.” Proverb 11:30 Use your voice to win others to the cause of Christ.

Being a good example:
“I have hated the congregation of evil doers; and will not sit with the wicked. I will wash my hands in innocency: so will I compass thine altar, O LORD: That I may publish with the voice of thanksgiving, and tell of all thy wondrous works.” Psalms 26:5-7
“And he said unto them, Is a candle brought to be put under a bushel, or under a bed? and not to be set on a candlestick?” Mark 4:21 The light of a good testimony for the cause of Christ can be brightness in this dark, sinful world. Do not “hide” your Christianity.

Quoting scripture and biblical principles:
“Make me to understand the way of thy precepts: so shall I talk of thy wondrous works.” Psalm 119:27
“My lips shall utter praise, when thou hast taught me thy statutes. My tongue shall speak of thy word: for all thy commandments are righteousness.” Psalms 119:171-172 How will the unsaved world hear of the Word of God unless the people of God tell them?

Praising Him:
“Oh that men would praise the LORD for his goodness, and for his wonderful works to the children of men!” Psalm 107:8

“If Christians do not tell the lost how to be saved from a tormenting eternity, who will?” It is the responsibility of believers to tell others how to be saved!
— Bill Brinkworth

The BIBLE VIEW #950 — Giving

In This Issue:
Give
A “Giving” Testimony
Giving
Put the Money in His Hand
Un-voluntary
Keeping Money

Volume: 950 March 25, 2024
Theme: Giving

Give
Bill Brinkworth

“Notwithstanding, lest we should offend them, go thou to the sea, and cast an hook, and take up the fish that first cometh up; and when thou hast opened his mouth, thou shalt find a piece of money: that take, and give unto them for me and thee.” Matthew 17:27

One of the biggest blessings of being a Christian is seeing how God takes care of His own. Seeing Him meet needs establishes concretely how real He is.

Many spend much energy trying to justify why they should not and do not give sacrificially to the Lord. They miss seeing how God will provide for their needs.

I have noticed quite often that those who have justified robbing God by not giving their tithes (Malachi 3:8) also have the most financial problems. Some tried to talk me out of giving by faith to my local church. They justified not giving because they supposedly “knew” the Scriptures better than I did. They accused me of being foolish when I gave money to the ministry when I could not afford to. Those people never got to the point where they ignored human reasoning and lived by faith.

I am so glad I did not let them influence me. When I got saved, I soon learned about tithing (giving at least 10% of what God had allowed one to earn) from my daily devotions and good preaching on the subject.

I gave sacrificially when giving was extremely difficult because of my low economic level. Not once did I ever miss a bill. I never was even late when I tithed. I always got to see how God met my needs because there was no other way as far as the “world” saw, but through His help. When the needs were most urgent, He always provided in an unexpected manner.

In verse 25, a “tribute” was due to be paid by Jesus. Sometimes, a “tribute” was a temple tax or a gift to the Lord. Here, I believe it was a government tax, as it was mentioned that “kings of the earth” were collecting it. It was a need to pay Jesus’ tax.

The disciples and Jesus had no guaranteed salary or a well-stocked bank account. They lived day-by-day through God’s provision of their “daily bread”.

When it came time to pay their taxes, an important need, Jesus told Peter to work for it. Peter obeyed, went down to the water’s edge, threw in a hook, and caught a fish. Peter reached into the fish’s mouth and, imagine that, pulled out of it a coin that was enough to pay their tribute.

Coincidence? Unlikely! It was God’s way of providing what they needed. If they had had a large savings account and had just taken out the money they needed, they would have missed seeing how God had taken care of them — an important lesson to learn if one is to grow spiritually.

With the economy being in a terrible mess, more and more people are finding it hard to pay bills. This is not the time to stop giving to God, but rather a time to give more faithfully and then see how the mighty hand of God will provide!

“Although a new Christian and a single parent, I soon started tithing. One Sunday, my pastor encouraged all to participate in “Give It All Sunday.”

“I struggled with that request. ‘How in the world could I afford to give all I earned that week? I do not make much, am on a strict budget, and barely can make ends meet now. I have expenses most do not have.’

“Soon, however, I succumbed to the Holy Spirit’s desire to step out by faith and put all I earned in the offering plate that Sunday. By the grace of God, I somehow made all my financial obligations, although I had no savings to help me, and never missed a bill. When we live by faith, God WILL be there to do the impossible! Trust Him.” — Bill Brinkworth

A “Giving” Testimony
Norman Gartin

When I was a new Christian, I sat in the DMV with another man from my church. My friend said he couldn’t tithe because he couldn’t afford to with all the car repairs and his being on state assistance. My response to him was that I couldn’t afford not to tithe, seeing I was also out of work and trusting the Lord to provide.

He and his wife later went on to divorce. Their lives were in a constant spiral down and away from God. My wife and I have been married for over 35 years, and our children serve the Lord. I wonder if there is a relationship between our attitude on tithing and where we ended up years later. We both sat in the same church and heard the same teaching but with different ears.

“Some people don’t give their money because they worship the dollar, and they don’t want to give away their ‘god’.” — Bill Brinkworth

Giving
Author Unknown

The sun gives ever; so the Earth,
What it can give so much ‘tis worth;
The ocean gives in many ways;
Gives paths, gives fishes, rivers, bays;
So, too, the air, it gives us breath;
When it stops giving comes in death.
Give, give, be always giving;
Who gives not is not living.
The more you give,
The more you live.

God’s love hath to us wealth upheaped;
Only by giving it is reaped.
The body withers, and the mind,
If pent in by selfish rind,
Give strength, give thought, give deeds, give pelf,
Give love, give tears, and give thyself;
Who gives not is not living.
The more we give,
The more we live.

(* “pelf” is money or riches.)

“You give but a little when you give of your possessions. It is when you give of yourself that you truly give.” — K. Gibran

Put the Money in His Hand
Author Unknown

A pastor was taking a missionary offering. He said, “I want each of you to give today as though you were putting your money right into the pierced hand of Jesus Christ.”

A lady came up afterward and said to him, “I was going to give a dollar, but I didn’t do so.”

“Why didn’t you give it?” the preacher asked her.

“Do you think,” replied the lady, “I would put a dollar into His pierced hand? I have a hundred dollars at home, and I will give that.”

If you were putting money into the pierced hand of our Lord, our contributions would amount to millions instead of thousands, and the world would be evangelized in our generation!

“Giving is the secret of a healthy life. Not necessarily money, but whatever a man has of encouragement, sympathy, and understanding.” — J. D. Rockefeller, Jr.

Un-voluntary Giving
Author Unknown

A summer boarder asked the farmer, “How much milk does that cow give?”

“Wal,” the farmer replied, “ef ye mean by voluntary contribooshun, she don’t give none. But ef ye kin get her cornered, so’s she can’t kick none to hurt, an able-bodied man kin take away about ‘eleven quarts a day from her.”

When it comes to giving, are not many like Farmer Applegate’s cow?

“God has given us two hands — one to receive with and the other to give with. We are not cisterns made for hoarding; we are channels made for sharing.” — Graham

Keeping Money
Author Unknown

It is foolish to allow our hearts to lean upon any earthly good, which may soon perish. It is like putting all one’s money into the coat pocket, which a clever thief may empty.

A great man once told a youth to empty his purse into his head if he wished to keep his money safely; meaning that a good education would be the best and surest investment for his little capital.

Let us lay up our treasure where it will be safe, namely, in the graces of the soul, the love of God, and for our eternity in Heaven if we are saved.
“Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal: For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.” Matthew 6:19-21

“You do not have to be rich to be generous. If one has the spirit of true generosity, a pauper can give like a prince.” — Wells

The BIBLE VIEW #949 — Death

In This Issue:
To Be with Christ is Far Better
Roll Call
Only the Shack Was Destroyed
Death God Will Be with Us
The Word of God on Death
Nothing to Fear

Volume: 949 March 18, 2024
Theme: Death

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To Be with Christ Is Far Better
Bill Brinkworth

Most people, Christians included, have much fear and anxiety about their death. Paul had a much different outlook on his.

His attitude was that his life here on Earth was more important to others than to him (Phil. 1:24). He considered death a gain to him rather than a great loss.

“For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.” Philippians 1:21

That is a much different view than those living for the party scene would have. They look forward to constant excitement and festivity. If they could not be partying, they would not be happy. The thought of death and the next life would not be something they would look forward to, as it would be different from what they currently enjoy.

Self-centered people enjoy when they are the center of attention, and their needs are catered to. They also would fear an eternal future where they were not in the position to get what they wanted and run the show.

One seeking political power and money is satisfied when he is running things, and his voice is the one changing the way people live. He would also not be content in Heaven, where God is the only ruling power, and His will is the only one that matters.

A Christian, however, should have a completely different view of his eternal future, as did Paul. This life is not our permanent home; we are just “pilgrims passing through”. While here on Earth, we have a purpose to be a good testimony for the cause of Christ and to serve the Lord in any way we can.

If we have done what the Bible says one must do to have God’s promise of going to Heaven by being saved, we no longer have to fear eternity. We can have great peace that the world does not have concerning this matter (Psalms 119:165). We may even find ourselves like Paul, longing for Heaven but happy serving the Lord while we are here.
“For I am in a strait betwixt two, having a desire to depart, and to be with Christ; which is far better:” Philippians 1:23

“God will survive your rejection, but you won’t survive His!”

Roll Call
D. L. Moody

A soldier wounded lay dying in his cot. Suddenly, the deathlike stillness of the room was broken by the cry, “Here! Here,” which burst from the lips of the dying man.

Friends rushed to the spot and asked what he wanted. “Hark,” he said, “they are calling the roll in Heaven, and I am answering to my name.” In a few moments, once more he whispered, “Here!” and passed into the presence of the King.

“Aspire to inspire before you expire!”

Only the Shack Was Destroyed
C. H. Spurgeon

Certain Swiss peasants were feeding their flocks on one of the lofty upland valleys. On one side of the pasture stood several wooden huts where they lived during the summer. They were poor shacks, which they left as soon as the winter set in.

One day, they heard a strange rumbling up in the lofty Alps, and they understood what it meant: a mass of rock, snow, or ice had fallen and would soon come crashing down in the form of an avalanche. In a short time, their fears were realized when they saw the tremendous mass come rushing from above, bearing destruction in its course. What did it destroy? Only the old wooden shacks. Every one of the shepherds and their family was safe.

Their case is a picture of ours. The “avalanche” of death will come one day. When it does, only the saint’s temporary earthen house will be destroyed. The real “them” will be safe and live an everlasting life. Will you fret over so small a loss?

“For the child of God, death is the entranceway to heaven.”

Death
Author Unknown

What is death? Oh! What is death?
‘Tis the snapping of the chain;
‘Tis the breaking of the bowl;
‘Tis relief from every pain;
‘Tis freedom to the soul.
‘Tis the setting of the sun
To rise again tomorrow,
A brighter course to run
Nor sink again in sorrow.
Such is death! Yes, such is death!

What is death? Oh, what is death?
‘Tis slumber to the weary;
‘Tis rest to the forlorn;
‘Tis shelter to the dreary;
‘Tis peace amid the storm;
‘Tis the entrance to our home;
‘Tis the passage to that God
Who bids His children come
When their weary course is trod.
Such is death! Yes, such is death!

God Will Be With Us
Whitson

No earthly friend can indeed accompany one in death. There is no human arm on which we can steady ourselves as we walk through its dark valley. Although we may then be alone in one sense, we will not be alone in another, as the Saviour has promised to accompany us. He said, “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.” Isa 43:2

Surely then we can also sing as did David, “Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.” Psalm 23:4

When a child walks down a dark road at night, does he fear when he walks it with his father? No, because his parent’s hand is locked in his. The presence of his father dismisses all his fears.

So, when we are in the hands of our heavenly Father, we need not fear. He who holds up worlds can protect us; He has pledged Himself to do so, if we fully trust Him.

The Word of God on Death

“Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.” Psalm 23:4
“Precious in the sight of the LORD is the death of his saints.” Psalm 116:15
“A good name is better than precious ointment; and the day of death than the day of one’s birth.” Eccl. 7:1
“Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that heareth my word, and believeth on him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life.” John 5:24
“For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.” Romans 6:23
“For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.” Philippians1:21
“And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment:” Heb. 9:27
“So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory. O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory?”
I Cor. 15:54-55

“The wages of sin is death. There is no minimum wage!” — Author Unknown

Nothing to Fear

For the believer, there is nothing to fear when one dies. For the unsaved, there is much to be afraid of. Are you sure you are saved and going to Heaven one day?

Here is what the Bible says one must do to have the assurance of Heaven:

Know that you are a sinner:
“For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;” Romans 3:23 Also: Romans 5:12, I John 1:10.

Hell is the payment for all who have sinned.
“For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.” Rom. 6:23
“Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned:” Romans 5:12

BUT, there is good news! Jesus’ death on the cross is the payment for the sins of all that call upon Him for salvation!
“That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.” Romans 10:9
“For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.” Rom. 10:13

That is what the Bible says one must do to be saved. Now, it is up to you to ask Jesus to save you. Please do it now! If you want to discuss it with someone, please e-mail me at brinkworth@frontier.com. I would be honored to talk to you about your salvation.

“Strive to live so that when you die, even the undertaker will be unhappy.”

The BIBLE VIEW #948 — Quitting

In This Issue:
Marching On
Don’t Quit!
Loyalty

Volume: 948 March 11, 2024
Theme: Quitting

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Marching On
Bill Brinkworth

In respect to the many unidentified, fallen soldiers, there is a monument to their honor at the Arlington National Cemetery. It is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. There, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, the elite guards of the 3rd U. S. Infantry watch over the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier through all weather conditions.

Many visitors go to watch the precision of the guards, especially at the time of the changing of the lone guard. It is a precision exchange of the patrol. During one such change, the relief Commander, inspecting the Tomb Sentinel’s weapon, dropped the rifle for a split second. During that time, the bayonet speared through the Sentinel’s shoe. Both, trained to be respectful and to finish their task, never let it be known what had happened.

A bystander’s filming of the event showed the quick slip and a quick grimace on the soldier’s face as the sharp blade pierced his foot. As the Commander regained control of the weapon, the exercise was continued. Most did not know what had happened as the two soldiers continued. Their duty was completed, rhythm was never lost, and the two continued their task. They marched on. Except for the blood from the one man’s foot injury and a quick grimace, bystanders never knew what had transpired.

The same should be said of faithful believers. They may face trials, tribulations, and tremendous testing, but their testimony should still be upheld, and their mission should be continued. They have hope and guidance no matter what befalls them. With the confidence that whatever happens in their life, no matter what pain, suffering, stress, or discomfort they face, they are on the winning side and will ultimately be victorious.

I have been at a funeral where a wife had lost her husband of 50+ years. There was peace in her handling such a tremendous loss, and her biggest concern that day was more for the hardships of some who gave her their condolences than her loss. She marched on.

In the hospital room of a man suffering the ravages of a dreadful and sometimes painful disease, the godly patient was more concerned about the hardships an unsaved hospital roommate was facing than his own. He was more burdened for the soul of the lost person than his difficulty. He marched on, and his anguish was barely noticeable as he dealt with his trial.

The generosity of the aged woman was tremendous. The one who visited her had tremendous needs for her family and out-of-work husband. The widow saw the need and was burdened for her young visitor. She loaded the visitor up with goods she had preserved earlier that year and many other necessities she found on her mostly empty shelves. She gave almost all she had, and the needy visitor never even knew that she was being given almost the last the elderly woman had to eat. The aged widow marched on knowing that the good Lord, who had always provided in the past, would again help her in her time of need.

Some Christians go through trials and testing poorly, kicking, screaming, and blaming God. Others are confident that their God knows of their situation, trust wholly in His control, and have peace in their valley of tribulation. When you face difficulties, do you trust that God’s grace through the trial will be enough, or are you a “kicker and a screamer”? Are you a good testimony for the cause of Christ, or not? Do you march on to complete your task, no matter what happens in your life?
“And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. 10 Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ’s sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong.” II Cor 12:9-10 Also: I Peter 4:14.

“I am only one, but I am one. I cannot do everything, but I can do something. And that which I can do, by the grace of God, I will do.” — D. L. Moody

Don’t Quit!
Bill Brinkworth

Too many quit or desire to when the going gets rough. In most cases, one never really quits the problem; one just runs away from it. The dilemma is still there.

Quitters are everywhere:

Husbands feel they cannot handle the “burden” of being a husband and father and run away. Although he is distant from his family, he is still a father and husband. His running away has not changed that. The problem he ran away from usually gets far bigger than it originally was because he failed to deal with the situation.
Wives run off, abandoning families and husbands. However, she is still a wife and mother. She’s just missing in action.
Children sometimes do not like their parents’ rules. They run away, but they still have the same parents. They just put space between the unsolved problem that will probably haunt them the rest of their lives unless they stay and work out the difficulty.
Students quit school but usually spend their lives without training and education. The rest of their lives are stalled because they never learned the lessons needed to improve their lives.
Friends quit long-term friendships because of arguments.
Employees quit when they do not like what is happening at the workplace.

It usually is easy to walk away from an uncomfortable situation. It does not take character, intelligence, or common sense to run away when the way gets tough. Rarely is anything solved by quitting, however.

There will always be problems in life. Unsolved problems have a way of following us wherever we go.

Many take their quitting lifestyle and try to apply it to their spiritual lives. Here are several reasons why one cannot quit on God:

You cannot quit being a Christian. Once a true Christian, always a Christian. You did not earn it. Salvation was a gift if you trusted Jesus’ finished work on the cross as payment for all your sins. You cannot lose that, if you really trusted Him in the first place. However, too many quit being Christ-like, and that is why this world is flooded with persons professing to be Christians, but their lifestyles and testimonies do not look any different than a lost person’s.
“And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand. My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father’s hand.” John 10:28-29

You cannot quit because the enemy has nothing to offer. There are only two sides – Satan’s and God’s. If you are truly saved by faith, you cannot get unsaved and be on the loser’s side. You can, however, have a life that looks like the losing side and have little peace in this life.
“Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.” Ephesians 6:13

You cannot quit because victory may be just around the corner. Troubles and tribulations are part of the school of life. You may be very close to passing the “test” and completing life’s next lesson. Do not quit now.
“And the Lord shall deliver me from every evil work, and will preserve me unto his heavenly kingdom: to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.” II Timothy 4:18

You cannot quit when you make a mistake. Just get back in the saddle and try again.
“Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? As it is written, For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter. Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us. For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Romans 8:35-39

You cannot quit now; you will miss the harvest. Maybe one day, your problem will be over, and you will reap a blessing from the tribulation. Perhaps it will be tomorrow or the day after. Spiritual fruit does not come the day it is planted.
“Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord.” I Corinthians 15:58 Also: John 15:4.

Life always has difficulties. If you are a Christian, you are on the winning side. Do not quit now. Victory is possible, and it is a blessing when it is achieved.

“Don’t think you get nothing from quitting. You get guilt, anger, depression, confusion, etc. … You never said they were feelings you wanted.”
— Nicholas O’Callaghan

Loyalty
Oswald Chambers, My Utmost for His Highest, March 5

“But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God.” Acts 20:24

Joy means the perfect fulfillment of that for which I was created and regenerated, not just the successful doing of a thing. The joy of our Lord was in doing what the Father sent Him to do, and He said, “Then said Jesus to them again, Peace be unto you: as my Father hath sent me, even so send I you.” John 20:21

Have I received a ministry from the Lord? If so, I have to be loyal to it, to count my life precious only for the fulfilling of that ministry. Think of the satisfaction it will be to hear Jesus say, “… Well done, thou good and faithful servant: …” (Mat. 25:21); to know that you have done what He sent you to do. We have all should find our niche in life, and spiritually we find it when we receive our ministry from the Lord. In order to do, this we must have companied with Jesus. We must know Him as more than a personal Saviour.
“… lovest thou me? … Feed my sheep.” (John 21:16)

There is no choice of service, only absolute loyalty to our Lord’s commission, and loyalty to do what you discern when you are in closest contact with God. If you have received a ministry from the Lord Jesus, you will know that the need is never the call; the need is the opportunity. The call is loyalty to the ministry you received when you were in real touch with Him.

“O Father, may it never be said of us that having come to an open door, we closed it; having come to a lighted candle, we quenched it; having heard the voice of a neighbor begging bread, we made denial.” — Mc Kenzie

The BIBLE VIEW #947 —Your Testimony

In This Issue:
Be A Bright Light
New Things

Volume: 947 March 4, 2024
Theme: Your Testimony

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Be A Bright Light
Bill Brinkworth

Christians should avoid being pooch-lipped and sad. They should do their best not to display looks of hopelessness and despair seen on the faces and in the lives of unbelievers because:

We are on God’s winning side no matter what happens around or to us! We should have peace and be comforted!
“But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.”
I Corinthians 15:57
“For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith. 5 Who is he that overcometh the world, but he that believeth that Jesus is the Son of God?” I John 5:4-5
“These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.” John 16:33
“Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us.” Romans 8:37
Believers can be victorious here on Earth, no matter their situation. One day, however, we will be in a place the unsaved will never experience — Heaven!
“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” John 3:16
“He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him.” John 3:36
“He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son. 8 But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death.” Revelation 21:7
We must show the world that, although we are troubled by the sin surrounding us and circumstances we may battle, we have confidence that the Lord is in control!
“And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:7
“Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” John 14:27
“And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful.” Colossians 3:15
We have hope. The unsaved do not!
“Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost.” Romans 15:13
“Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer;” Rom. 12:12
“But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.” Isaiah 40:31
We should represent God’s blessing that the world should see. May our example be a godly, encouraging one.
“O give thanks unto the LORD, for he is good: for his mercy endureth for ever. 2 Let the redeemed of the LORD say so, whom he hath redeemed from the hand of the enemy;” Psalms 107:1-2
“Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity.” I Timothy 4:12
“Be ye followers of me, even as I also am of Christ.” I Corinthians 11:1
“Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you.” Philippians 4:9
Our testimony must be one of peace, victory, and godliness, not sadness and without hope, as the unsaved often display.
“Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” Matthew 5:16
“Come and hear, all ye that fear God, and I will declare what he hath done for my soul.” Psalm 66:16
“Also I say unto you, Whosoever shall confess me before men, him shall the Son of man also confess before the angels of God:” Luke 12:8
God loves us!
“And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us.” Romans 5:5
“Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Rom. 8:39
“Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew him not.” I John 3:1 Also: II Cor. 13:11, Eph. 3:19.

Be a shining Christian. You may be the only exposure to Christianity others know. Is your testimony a bright, godly beacon that others desire to follow, or is your example further evidence to observing unbelievers that being a Christian does not change anything?

“Count your blessings, not your troubles.” — Author Unknown

New Things
Bill Brinkworth

Living a biblical lifestyle is undoubtedly the old way — the way much of mankind has lived for over 6,000 years. Living that way may be “old-fashioned,” but there are many new things that obeying and living for the Lord can offer.

Here are some of the new things God still gives and desires all to have and experience:

A new birth. When one becomes a child of God, he has a new spiritual birth. He is a new, different creature.
“Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.” John 3:3
“Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever.” I Peter 1: 23
“Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.” II Corinthians 5:17

A new joy, happiness, and purpose. Being born again is wonderful. It comes with new chances in life with great joy and happiness.
“O sing unto the LORD a new song: sing unto the LORD, all the earth. Sing unto the LORD, bless his name; shew forth his salvation from day to day. Declare his glory among the heathen, his wonders among all people. For the LORD is great, and greatly to be praised: he is to be feared above all gods” Psalms 96:1-3
“And he hath put a new song in my mouth, even praise unto our God: many shall see it, and fear, and shall trust in the LORD.” Psalms 40:3 Also: Psalms 98:1.

A new heart. God gives, along with salvation, a new heart that has new desires, purposes, and hopes.
“A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you: and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you an heart of flesh.” Ezekiel 36:26
“Therefore say, Thus saith the Lord GOD; I will even gather you from the people, and assemble you out of the countries where ye have been scattered, and I will give you the land of Israel. And I will give them one heart, and I will put a new spirit within you; and I will take the stony heart out of their flesh, and will give them an heart of flesh: That they may walk in my statutes, and keep mine ordinances, and do them: and they shall be my people, and I will be their God.” Ezekiel 11: 17-20 These verses were written about the people of Israel, but the principle can be applied to us.

A new outlook. Life is seen differently. When one is saved, educated from the Word of God, and obedient to it, life looks a lot different. Activities and actions of the past now may appear contrary to God’s commands and harmful rather than “fun.” The “old, dead” Bible now becomes alive and helpful.
“Thou hast heard, see all this; and will not ye declare it? I have shewed thee new things from this time, even hidden things, and thou didst not know them.” Isaiah 46: 6

A new, changed life (a new mind). Along with other new blessings comes the “mind of Christ” which thinks much differently than before the new birth.
“And have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him:” Colossians 3:10
“That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts; And be renewed in the spirit of your mind; And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness. Wherefore putting away lying, speak every man truth with his neighbour: for we are members one of another. Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath: Neither give place to the devil.” Ephesians 4:22-27

A new day filled with second chances and other opportunities. Just as a new day brings fresh opportunities and expectations, God gives the born-again soul a second chance in life.
“It is of the LORD’S mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness.” Lamentations 3:22-23

A new testament. A new covenant. A “testament” is a document declaring the will and desires of a person. The New Testament God gave man is not only part of the Bible, but it is His will and the new covenant (commitments or promises) He made with man. It tells of God’s will for man in this church age.
“And he took the cup, and gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, Drink ye all of it; For this is my blood of the new testament, which is shed for many for the remission of sins.” Mat. 26:27-28
“And he said unto them, This is my blood of the new testament, which is shed for many.” Mark 14: 24

A new world. One day, God will destroy this world and create a new one.
“For, behold, I create new heavens and a new earth: and the former shall not be remembered.” Isaiah 65:7
“And I saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away; and there was no more sea.” Revelation 21:1 Also II Pet. 3:3.

“I can’t help thinking of the old woman, when the civil war started, who started out with a poker in her hand. When asked what she would do with it, she said, “I can’t do much with it, but I can show which side I’m on.” My friend, even if you can’t do much for the cause of Christ, you can show the world whose side you are on.” — Author Unknown