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The Bible View #854 — Our Sin Nature

In This Issue:
Die, Old Nature! Die!
Remarried

Volume: 854     April 11, 2022
Theme: Our Sinful Nature

The FREE printable versions (bulletin insert, large print, and e-mail versions) of this Bible View and many others can be found at https://openthoumineeyes.com/newsletters.html.

Are you reading the Bible every day?  If not, have the FREE Daily View Devotion e-mailed to you.  Learn something taught in a KJV chapter from a short commentary, read the chapter, and more spiritual “meat” for the hungry soul. Sign-up at https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/su/a26cc9M to start receiving it.


Die, Old Nature! Die!
Bill Brinkworth

When a person is saved, he becomes a different, “new” person. One may be “new” on the inside, but all have the same “flesh” they were born with. Those fleshly, worldly desires may be tucked away out of sight for now, but they will always be waiting for their chance to make an appearance. If the indwelling “new man” does not keep them in check, they will ruin one’s life and cause one to be in the same miserable state, or worse, than before.
“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

No, one does not get unsaved because he does not follow the “new,” Holy Spirit’s guidance. However, his life may not appear much different than an unsaved person’s life. He will not have the joy he could have had, and he will not be all he could have been. He will go through many hardships that he would not normally go through, and God will not use that person the way He desired.

All have to battle the pull from the old nature’s stranglehold to rule and get its way. Many of our personal and social problems are because someone’s “old man” is trying to rule the roost — again. It is that old man that is prevailing when the green-eyed monster of jealousy raises its unruly head between brother and sister, or when one gets angry quickly with another. He surfaces again when a lie is offered to get one out of trouble.

It is the “old man” (the old self) that creates power struggles between peers, becomes selfish, and it is that same villain that spreads gossip to defame one’s testimony because someone hurt the gossiper’s feelings.

The “old man” exposes himself when a mouth spews out hurtful words and filthy talk. The old nature gets control again when we allow it to criticize someone that is not doing something our way, or when we are scared others are not accepting us, and other countless ways. The “old man” will always haunt our lives, until we do what God commands we do to our old, could-be-dominating nature. Our “old man” must die, sometimes even daily.  He must be forgotten and ignored!

No, do not even suggest one’s committing sin and taking one’s life. That is definitely letting the “old man” have his lecherous control on one’s life. Everyone, if they want to please God, must put the “old man” of the flesh to “death” and let the new, spiritual man lead. The old nature must have as little control of one’s life as possible.

 Here is some of what the Bible says about the subject:
When one is saved, he is a new, different person with new needs, desires, and purpose. His second “birth” creates in him a new part of him that never existed before.
“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   Also:  II Cor. 5:17 (see above).
“For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor uncircumcision, but a new creature.” Galatians 6:15  Religious ceremonies, traditions, and works should not be the governing factor in one’s life, but a new, spiritual life in accordance with God’s Word should be guiding him.

Do not live for “self.”  Let the “new man” in you be your life’s leader. Put self-ambition, self-goals, and self-desires behind you and let your leading force be the desire to be obedient to God’s commandments found in His Word and to be a godly testimony (example). Listen to the indwelling Holy Spirit. Let many of your self-motivated desires “die,” and not have any control in your life. In so doing, God will live through you. The “new man” has a new mind, new spirit, new master, new goals, and a new joy.
“And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness.” Ephesians 4:24
“I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.” Galatians 2:20
“Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.” Romans 6:4
“Lie not one to another, seeing that ye have put off the old man with his deeds; And have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him:” Colossians 3:9-10  

Let your “old man die”. Self-will will have less dominance when the “new man” is leading.
“Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin.” Romans 6:6

Do not let worldly desires and habits rule and reign in your life. Being born-again is being born into the family of God. What kind of child are you that, while a member of one family, acts like and wishes you were a member of another family? That is what those that are living for the world, by living the world’s way, are doing. By their actions, they are telling God, “I love you Father, BUT I like how the unsaved live; and I will behave, have the same goals, and strive to be like them.” That is what Christians do to their own Creator!

We are on the winning side!  Why would anyone ever want to act and live like those on the losing side?
“That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts … 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. Let him that stole steal no more: but rather let him labour, working with his hands the thing which is good, that he may have to give to him that needeth. Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers. … Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice: And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.” Ephesians 4:22-32
“And they that are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts.” Galatians 5:24
“But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof.” Romans 13:14
“This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh.” Galatians 5:16 “Remember ye not the former things, neither consider the things of old. Behold, I will do a new thing; ….” Isaiah 43:18-19
“But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his.” Romans 8:9
“Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him.” I John 2:15
“Lie not one to another, seeing that ye have put off the old man with his deeds;” Colossians 3:9  

You are not your own anymore, if you are saved. “I’m born again, but I don’t want to do all God wants me to do,” is what too many say by their actions and words to God. You are not your own, you are purchased by God when you are saved. The blood that Christ shed on the cross purchased you. You did not like how you were before, and how you were headed to Hell claim many when they got saved. He has done great things for you, including rescuing you from an eternal Hell. Don’t you want to do something for Him? Live the life He wants you to live!
“Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you?” I Corinthians 3:16
“And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.” Romans 12:2
“Know ye that the LORD he is God: it is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture.” Psalm 100:3

If all the children of God would obey the “new man,” and let their “old man” “die”, their lives would be much different. There would be fewer disagreements, tensions, and disunity in churches, families, schools, and even the workplace. All would have the same godly purpose and direction when the “new” creature guides them through life. If you want the “new” life God desires you to have, let your “old man” die — and please, don’t ever let him be resurrected!

“There is but one question, and that is, what is the will of God? That settles all other questions.”  — William E. Gladstone


Remarried
Bill Brinkworth

In Romans 6, Paul lets us know that when we trust Christ as Saviour, our “old man” is “dead” (Rom. 6:6). The part of us that was once unrestrained, did whatever it wanted to, even things that were against God’s desires for us, is “dead”.  Once we are saved, we no longer have to serve our sin nature.

Romans 7 takes that understanding and explains how we are no longer under sin’s dominion, and the Old Testament laws that identified the sins. Paul likens the new arrangement of being saved to a new marriage (Romans 7:2-3).  Like a marriage, one is bound to one spouse as long as they are alive. Before we were saved, we were bound to sin, until that nature died. It led us where we allowed it to take us: into bars, into adulterous relationships, into bitterness, into blasphemy, and hosts of other places. Our sin nature was in control.

Like a marriage, we are no longer bound to the first spouse, when that spouse dies.  Our first “spouse” died when we got saved. That first “husband” contained over 600 Old Testament laws. A saved person is “… dead to the law by the body of Christ …” (Romans 7:6).

The law is important, however.  It shows us what God likes and dislikes.  From it we learned that lying is wrong; as is adultery, deceitfulness, disobedience, rebellion, hatred, and on and on the list goes (Romans 7: 7).  Without the law of God we would not have known the whole mind of God concerning sin.

The law is very hard, however.  It curses and condemns us for the sins we have committed.  Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross, when accepted, pays for our sins, and now we can have grace and mercy.  As Matthew Henry put it, “The sentence of the law against us is vacated and reversed by the death of Christ to all true believers.”

For the believer, the “old man” is dead.  We can be “married” to another.  The second spouse is Christ.  We are not bound to the “old man” and his laws.  Yes, the old nature and new nature will still battle for control (Romans 7:18-19),  but with the new mind a Christian has, he can be free from the control of sin (Romans 6:7).

“If you are saved, you sin by choice, not by chance.” — Barbara Brinkworth

The Bible View #853 —Consequences

In This Issue:
There Can be A Way of Escape
What a Christian Can Miss
Whose Side Are You On?

Volume: 853      April 4, 2022
Theme: Missing Consequences

The FREE printable versions (bulletin insert, large print, and e-mail versions) of this Bible View and many others can be found at https://openthoumineeyes.com/newsletters.html.

Are you reading the Bible every day?  If not, have the FREE Daily View Devotion e-mailed to you.  Learn something taught in a KJV chapter from a short commentary, read the chapter, and more spiritual “meat” for the hungry soul. Sign-up at https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/su/a26cc9Mto start receiving it.


There Can be A Way of Escape
Bill Brinkworth

The blessings of God often are poured out on the godly and the ungodly.  As Matthew 5:45 reminds us, the sun rises and sets whoever you are.  The God-sent rain also refreshes the crops of His children and those of the heathen.
“That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust.” Matthew 5:45

Perhaps God’s blessings are to keep all alive as long as possible so that they have an opportunity to be saved from the Lake of Fire’s eternal torment.  America has often reaped God’s goodness from all the countless efforts and sacrifices of its missionaries and other godly servants.

However, there have been and will be times that God will separate the godly from the ungodly while he deals with the ungodly’s disobedience to Him.

The ungodly of Noah’s day enjoyed “normal” living for a while when the godly man built the Ark.  However, when it was finished, there came a time when the Ark’s door of escape was closed to them (Genesis 7:16).  All who were not inside perished in the worldwide flood.  God dealt with the ungodly; however, Noah and his family were spared.

Although both Egyptians and God’s people experienced some of the ten plagues God unleashed on their lands, there was a time God only brought some upon Pharoah and his people.
“And I will sever in that day the land of Goshen, in which my people dwell, that no swarms of flies shall be there; to the end thou mayest know that I am the LORD in the midst of the earth.  23 And I will put a division between my people and thy people: to morrow shall this sign be.” Exodus 8:22-23

Egyptians experienced the scourge of flies, but God’s people, Israel, did not (Ex.8:23).  Israel was also spared from the plague of the loss of cattle (Ex. 9:6), some believe the plague of boils (Ex.  9:11), damaging hail (Ex. 9:26), thick darkness (Ex.  10:23), and the death of firstborns (Ex.  12:30).

There is also a future judgment that God promised will come one day.  Although many believe they can do whatever they want, there will be a time when God will end unrestrained iniquity.

As God spared the righteous in Noah’s and Moses’ day, he will spare His own from that coming judgment.  Before the Almighty unleashes seven years of a terrible, destroying tribulation on Earth’s inhabitants,  He will call His own Home to Him during the “Rapture.”
“For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: 17 Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord.”  I Thessalonians 4:16

After the godly are removed from Earth and out of harm’s way, the horrible seven-year Tribulation will begin.  God’s judgments will plague all that remain.  Earth’s inhabitants will face His wrath as it has never been experienced before.

When God halts the terrifying events, Jesus will return to rule and reign on this Earth for 1,000 years.  After that time and other prophecies are fulfilled, this world’s final judgment will occur. 

Christ-rejectors will be cast into the Lake of Fire at that judgment, where they will spend eternity!  Horrifying!  Again, the righteous will not experience that terrible event.  As God has spared His own from many terrible judgments in the past, they will not be judged at the frightening White Throne judgment.
“And death and hell were cast into the lake of fire.  This is the second death.  And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire.” Revelation 20:14-15

There is a time to receive blessings; sometimes, they are the rewards of others’ obedience to God’s commandments.  However, God’s patience in sin has often ended as He has judged many for their iniquities.  Eventually, a final judgment for sin and rejection of Him will be pronounced on many. 

The final judgment day is getting closer!  When God’s wrath is poured out on all humanity, will you be there, or will you be spared His anger?  The righteous of Noah’s, Pharoah’s, and other periods of wantonness escaped God’s punishment, you can too.  Trust Christ’s payment for your sins today without delay.

“You may juggle human laws, you may fool with human courts, but there is a judgment to come, and from it there is no appeal.” — Gifford  


What a Christian Can Miss
Bill Brinkworth

Many are convinced that if they become a Christian and live a life as prescribed by the Word of God, they will miss a lot in their life.  They are right!

If one lives a life centered on the Bible and abides, to the best of one’s ability, by its teachings and commandments, one will miss a lot that the unsaved will have happen in their lives.

A God-fearing, God-obeying Christian will most likely miss:

  • Cirrhosis and other liver diseases from drinking alcohol, as one will avoid the activity that causes much of it.
  • Lung cancer from smoking. When a person is saved, the Holy Spirit impresses a person to take care of their temple (their body).  Smoking is often one of the habits to go. 
    “What?  know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?” I Corinthians 6:19
  • A broken marriage. If the husband and wife obey God in all areas, the chances of having a successful marriage are great.
  • Begging for money. An obedient Christian should be a hard-working employee and has a God that will help him provide for his family and himself.
    “I have been young, and now am old; yet have I not seen the righteous forsaken, nor his seed begging bread.” Psalm 37:25
  • Having a drug addiction. A God-obeying Christian will want to avoid any substance that takes control of one’s life and, therefore, should want to be far away from taking drugs.
  • Deciding to have an abortion. Because of not having sex until married, one will never need to consider killing an unborn child.
  • Having to worry about venereal diseases. Because a God-obeying spouse will be faithful to their spouse, most likely, venereal disease will not be experienced.
  • … hundreds of other heartaches.

Being a Christian does not guarantee anyone will not have hardships in this life.  Sin hurts all.  Sometimes innocent God-fearing and God-obeying Christians suffer from others’ involvement in iniquity.  However, if one obeys God’s commandments, much of what happens to those that do not follow God’s guidance will be avoided.

Sometimes a now-obedient Christian suffers from the side effects of unrighteousness they were involved in before they were saved or when they were not so obedient.  Getting right with God does not mean the scars of sin will go away.  That is why God wants us never to get involved with iniquity.

An obedient Christian will want to do what God tells him to do from God’s Word.  Most of God’s commandments are to avoid sin.  If a Christian stays far from iniquity, his chances of getting hurt from evil-doing are less.

It is wonderful being a Christian.  Avoiding some of sin’s side effects is one benefit of being a child of God.

“No sin is small.  It is against an infinite God and may have consequences immeasurable.”  — J. Taylor 


Whose Side Are You On?
Bill Brinkworth

“A Song or Psalm of David.  O God, my heart is fixed; I will sing and give praise, even with my glory.” Psalm 108:1

Psalm 108 starts with a declaration to which all Christians should strive to commit themselves. Christians should make up their minds about whose side they are on.  Are they on the Lord’s side or the losing world’s side? They should purpose in their heart to be “fixed” as was David’s and live, serve, and obey what God requires and commands of them.

A large percentage of Christians have not made that commitment.  They often vacillate between both sides.  They want to be saved, but still do what they did when lost. 

Christians are born again (John 3:3) into the winning side. They have a promise of a future with the Lord and can have a relationship with God, who will guide and protect them through this life. Somehow, that does not seem good enough for so many.

Being saved is the most important decision one can make. It will free one from what could ruin one’s life here on Earth and give them a bright, eternal future. Why would anyone not want to be a proud, vibrant Christian?

Too many get confused by the attractiveness of the shiny things available on Earth. They get swallowed up by desiring and striving to get wealth, ease, popularity, and all that they see about them on this planet.  However, those “things” cannot follow them into the next life. Getting them may even cost them happiness, freedom, and peace that they could also have in this life.

Christian, you are on the winning side. Read the Bible, especially the last chapters in Revelation. All you see here is temporary. You cannot take it with you into the next life, and besides, God has better plans for you in the future. 

Life here is an opportunity to live for the Lord, have Him bless this short life, and receive wealth for your time with Him in eternity. Purpose not to have the same goals as the unsaved that have no joyful eternal future.  You are on the winning side; act like it and appreciate the new life God wants you to have here.
“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.” Mat.  6:19-21

The Bible View #852 — Prophecy

In This Issue:
When Will the End of the World Come?
Pre-written History
Prophecies about Christ
What Is Prophecy?
Interpretation of Prophecy

Volume: 852      March 28, 2022
Theme: Prophecy 

The FREE printable versions (bulletin insert, large print, and e-mail versions) of this Bible View and many others can be found at https://openthoumineeyes.com/newsletters.html.

Are you reading the Bible every day?  If not, have the FREE Daily View Devotion e-mailed to you.  Learn something taught in a KJV chapter from a short commentary, read the chapter, and more spiritual “meat” for the hungry soul.  Sign-up at https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/su/a26cc9Mto start receiving it.


When Will the End of the World Come?
Bill Brinkworth

Since the time of Jesus’ disciples (Mat. 24:3), many have wondered, “When is the end of the world coming?” Many have given dates for the end or dates for biblically predicted end-time events such as the rapture, last judgment, the Battle of Armageddon, and even the future of humanity.  All foretold dates have been wrong!

One internet site, Wikipedia.com, has recorded more than 158 predicted days for end-time events that never occurred.  Many of the prediction dates came from fairly well-known people such as Martin Luther (“not later than 1600”), Christopher Columbus (1658), John Wesley (1836), Jeanne Dixon (2/4/62), Jim Jones (1967), Charles Manson (1969), and Nostradamus (7/1999).  Some “religious” have also given their predictions, including Catholic popes (1/1/1000, 1284, 1901), Herbert W. Armstrong (1936, 1943), Hal Lindsey (1980’s), Jehovah’s Witnesses (1908, 1914, 1916, 1941, 1971, 1975, 1984), Seventh-day Adventists (1999), and Sun Myung Moon (2000).  Since 1977, someone has put a date for an end-time event for almost every year.

There are also many predicted dates for the future. Jean Dixon (a psychic) also claims something will happen between 2020 and 2037.  Nostradamus again predicted another date of 3797.

When the projected dates were given, I imagine some were concerned.  Many may have been alarmed and tried to prepare for what they thought would be a cataclysmic event by stockpiling and hoarding supplies, as some are doing today.

Although all the past predicted dates were wrong, some overlook the only source that has never been wrong about predicting events.  This source has foretold many historic past events, and most of its prophecies have come true.  Some predicted events were warned about 1,000 years before the event occurred, but they were still valid prophecies. 

This authority told about the coming of God’s Son and what He would do on Earth.  All those prophecies about Jesus came true.  This source also gives many predictions about future events.  This reliable source is God’s Word, the Bible.  If it was correct about hundreds of past prophecies, we can also trust its accuracy about future events that have not occurred yet.

However, the King James Bible, as accurate as it has been in the past, does not give dates for end-time events.  God’s Word has indicated that it is not for man to know when He will begin the last-days events.  He even states that the angels do not know the day and hour, nor does His only Son, Jesus.
“But of that day and hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels of heaven, but my Father only.” Matthew 24:36

If the heavenly host and Jesus do not know when such events will occur, we can be assured that a common, sinful man will not know either.  Certainly, those who believe contrary to what the Bible commands will not be told the details of God’s plan, including psychics, unbiblical religions, astrologists, and even preachers.  Why anyone would think that a Holy God would whisper end dates to human-sacrificing, false god worshipping Mayans is even more ludicrous.

Many sense that the “end” is getting closer.  Cataclysmic events may occur.  This year may be a challenging year financially and physically for many.  We, as a people, have been snubbing our noses at God for a long time.  Why would He not begin to exercise His promised events soon?

However, the last day’s events will begin when God says it is time, and they will be according to the way His Word records them.  God’s Word says the rapture of God’s people will happen first, followed by the seven-year tribulation, 1,000-year reign of Christ, and other judgments on the Earth’s inhabitants.  After they have occurred, this world will be “passed away” (Revelation 21:1), and a new Earth will replace the old.

If people would read and believe their Bible more than what the television or some newspaper writer says, they would realize that most predictions are not even close to what will happen.  Read and believe God’s Word first.  Do not even consider those that set days on God’s plans.

“No leaps of faith are needed to jump from God’s Word into tomorrow.” — Author Unknown  


Pre-written History
Author Unknown

In all ages, God has pre-announced certain things He proposed to do.  These announcements are termed prophecies.  Prophecy is history pre-written.  It is as credible as any Word that God has spoken. 

The Bible is filled with prophecies.  Almost all the 66 books contain some prophecy.  Nearly one-fourth of the Bible was predictive when it was written. 

It is most reasonable to conclude, since every Bible prediction concerning the past has been fulfilled in the minutest detail, we may expect all the remaining prophecies to be just as literally fulfilled.

“If psychics can know the future, why don’t they win the lottery every time?”


Prophecies about Christ
Halley’s Bible Handbook

The Bible prophesied:

  • That Jesus would be of David’s family: II Sam. 7:12-16, Psa. 89:3-4, Isa. 9:6-7.
  • That He would be born of a virgin: Isa. 7:14.
  • That He would sojourn in Egypt: Hos. 11:1.
  • That His coming would occasion the massacre of Bethlehem’s children: Jer. 31:15.
  • That His mission would include Gentiles: Isa. 4:1-4.
  • That His ministry would be one of healing: Isa. 53:4.
  • That He would teach by parables: Isa. 6:9-10.
  • That He would be disbelieved and rejected: Psa. 69:4, Psa. 118:22, Isa. 6:10.
  • That He would make a triumphal entry into Jerusalem: Zech.  9:9.
  • That He would be betrayed by a friend for 30 pieces of silver: Zech.  11:12-13, Psa. 41:9.
  • That He would be given vinegar and gall: Psa. 69:21.
  • That no bone would be broken in His body: Psa. 34:20.
  • That He would rise from the dead: Psa.16:10-11, Luke 24:46.


What Is Prophecy?
Dr. J. Hamilton

Fulfilled and unfulfilled, the prophecies are mountains and valleys; mountains, from whose gilded summits you may look on future vistas through the fog.  They are strands of sunshine in the vapor flood where glorious things are revealed, while from the echoing sides of ravings still dark and misty come up the heavy footfall or terrific cries of sorrows not occurred as yet.

 “Our cares we can cast on Thee, for Thou carest for us.  How can we be troubled about the future road since it belongs to Thee?  How can we be troubled where it leads since it finally leads us to Thee?”  — John Henry Neuman


Interpretation of Prophecy
Horsley

“Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation.” II Peter 1:20

The apostle’s negative maxim, “… that no prophecy … is of any private interpretation,” has within it two affirmative rules of exposition; that every single text of prophecy is to be considered as a part of an entire system and to be interpreted in that sense which may best connect it with the whole, and that the sense of prophecy, in general, is to be sought in the events which have taken place.

“I never think of the future.  It comes soon enough.”  — Albert Einstein 

The Bible View#851 — Health Issues

In This Issue:
When You Don’t Get Healed
Thoughts on Cancer
Why They Had Health Afflictions
The Home Light
God’s Protection

Volume: 851      March 21, 2022T
heme: Heath Issues

The FREE printable versions (bulletin insert, large print, and e-mail versions) of this Bible View and many others can be found at https://openthoumineeyes.com/newsletters.html.

So many are battling serious health issues. Perhaps this edition may help and encourage them. If you think it may, please forward it to those that could use uplifting.


When You Don’t Get Healed
Bill Brinkworth

Paul was a man used greatly by God.  Because of God’s helping hand, the evangelist survived shipwrecks, beatings, persecutions, imprisonments, and other ill-treatment.  With God’s miraculous help, this man was used in healings, revivals, and many miracles.  However, as utilized by God as he was, Paul still had a personal ailment.
“And lest I should be exalted above measure through the abundance of the revelations, there was given to me a thorn in the flesh, the messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I should be exalted above measure.” II Corinthians 12:7

Commentators have strained at attempting to name Paul’s “thorn in the flesh,”  although God chose not to make it clear to us.  No matter what it was, Paul made it evident that he faced an infirmity.  Three times he pleaded with God to remove the malady from him (II Cor. 12:8).  God’s answer was “… My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness …” (II Cor. 12:9).

Here was a man that had seen glorious things in the third heaven (II Cor. 12:2-4).  He had been delivered from many horrible things, yet God wanted Paul to experience this physical problem.  God could have easily healed his body, but the God’s answer was that His grace was enough for him to live with the situation.  Paul’s infirmity was a vehicle to make him spiritually stronger.

If God would allow one of His great spiritual warriors to face such a battle, we too should not be surprised if we face health problems.  As it is with most trials, we can do one of two things when going through testing.  We can either shake our fist at God and be angry with him, which is not the wise thing to do when we need Him the most.  However, during that testing time, we can get close to Him and rely on Him to get us through the challenge.

Paul chose not to be foolish and get angry with God, as some do.  He decided that if God allowed him to go through the problem, he would have a good attitude about it (II Cor. 12: 10) and give God the glory.  In so doing, Paul learned what God wanted him to know.  He understood that when he was weak, the preacher was the strongest through God’s help!


“Some cry, “Why me?” when they go through a trial.”

My question to them is, “Why wouldn’t it be you?  Are you something special that you shouldn’t have problems or sicknesses?”  God promises eternal life in Heaven to the saved.  He promised no one he would not have problems on this Earth. — B. Brinkworth


Thoughts on Cancer
By Dr. Curtis Hutson, while going through cancer which later took his life.

  • Cancer can shorten your earthly life, but it cannot affect your eternal life.
  • Cancer can steal your days, but it cannot steal your dreams.
  • Cancer can cause you to be immobile, but it cannot keep you from being immovable.
  • Cancer may make you weak, but it cannot take away the joy of the Lord, which is our strength.
  • Cancer can incapacitate you, but it cannot captivate you.
  • Cancer may bring pain, but it cannot keep you from praising the Lord and rejoicing in His name.
  • Cancer may make you look bad on the outside, but it cannot change the inside where you have everlasting life and the very presence of God Himself in the Person of the Holy Spirit.
  • Cancer may take your physical life, but it cannot destroy the everlasting life given to you the moment you trust Christ as Savior.  In fact, it can’t even diminish it.  It is just as real in your weakest moment as the day you trusted Him as Saviour.
  • Cancer may put you in the grave, but it cannot keep you there.  There shall be a resurrection.
  • Cancer may destroy the physical tabernacle in which you live, but it cannot touch the heavenly mansion prepared for you.
  • Cancer may cause a temporary separation from your family and friends, but it cannot stop the blessed reunion that will take place someday when all of God’s children are called on to Heaven either by way of death or the rapture.
  • Cancer may weaken your body where you cannot even say to your dearest friends, “I love you,” but it cannot keep you from loving.
  • Cancer may follow you to the graveyard, but it cannot follow you beyond.
  • Cancer, at times, may cause you to want to give up\, but it cannot keep you from going up.  To be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord (II Cor. 5:6-8).
  • Cancer can stop your labors, but it cannot undo your works.

When I consider my crosses, tribulations, and temptations, I shame myself almost to death, thinking what are they in comparison to the suffering of my blessed Savior, Jesus Christ. — Martin Luther

Why They Had Health Afflictions
Bill Brinkworth

Paul had an unspecified health problem, so he would have to trust God for His help to get through the difficulty.
“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.” II Cor. 12:9 Read also: I Peter 5:10.

Job went through many trials and tribulations, including health problems.  God allowed Satan to inflict Job with health difficulties so that Satan would see Job was faithful to God, not just because God blessed Job’s life.  Sometimes health troubles are a witness to others, so they can observe how a Christian goes through trials.
“And the LORD said unto Satan, Hast thou considered my servant Job, that there is none like him in the earth, a perfect and an upright man, one that feareth God, and escheweth evil?  and still he holdeth fast his integrity, although thou movedst me against him, to destroy him without cause… 5 But put forth thine hand now, and touch his bone and his flesh, and he will curse thee to thy face.  6 And the LORD said unto Satan, Behold, he is in thine hand; but save his life.  7  So went Satan forth from the presence of the LORD, and smote Job with sore boils from the sole of his foot unto his crown.” Job 2:3-7

The author of Psalms 119, most likely David, learned more about God’s Word when going through afflictions.
“It is good for me that I have been afflicted; that I might learn thy statutes.” Psalm 119:71

Some have health afflictions, not because of any sin they have committed, but so God can get the glory and credit when the person is healed.
“And as Jesus passed by, he saw a man which was blind from his birth.  2 And his disciples asked him, saying, Master, who did sin, this man, or his parents, that he was born blind?  3 Jesus answered, Neither hath this man sinned, nor his parents: but that the works of God should be made manifest in him.” John 9:1-3
“When Jesus heard that, he said, This sickness is not unto death, but for the glory of God, that the Son of God might be glorified thereby.” John 11:4

A centurion’s servant was sick, so the centurion had an opportunity to exercise his faith when he trusted Jesus to heal his ill helper.
“And when Jesus was entered into Capernaum, there came unto him a centurion, beseeching him, 6 And saying, Lord, my servant lieth at home sick of the palsy, grievously tormented. . . . 8 The centurion answered and said, Lord, I am not worthy that thou shouldest come under my roof: but speak the word only, and my servant shall be healed. . . .  13 And Jesus said unto the centurion, Go thy way; and as thou hast believed, so be it done unto thee.  And his servant was healed in the selfsame hour.” Matthew 8:5-13

Some have health problems because of unconfessed sin.  In this biblical case, it was partaking of the Lord’s Supper without confessing their sins to God.
“After the same manner also he took the cup, when he had supped, saying, This cup is the new testament in my blood: this do ye, as oft as ye drink it, in remembrance of me.  27 Wherefore whosoever shall eat this bread, and drink this cup of the Lord, unworthily, shall be guilty of the body and blood of the Lord.  28 But let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of that bread, and drink of that cup.  29 For he that eateth and drinketh unworthily, eateth and drinketh damnation to himself, not discerning the Lord’s body.  30 For this cause many are weak and sickly among you, and many sleep.” I Cor. 11:26-30

“We are usually closest to God when we need Him the most.  That is usually when our prayer life is the strongest.”  — B. Brinkworth


The Home Light
Mama’s Way, Thyra F. Bjorn

Thyra Bjorn told the story of accompanying her pastor-father one evening to the shack of a poverty-stricken elderly man.  He was crippled with age and pain, yet he offered them what hospitality he could.  When they prayed together,  the older man’s face came alive as the agony of his present life gave way to radiant joy.  Rather than asking anything of God, the man thanked Him for his shack, warm bed, visitors, and everything that was a part of his seemingly cramped and limited existence.  When he had finished, Bjorn wrote, “He looked as happy and contented as though he had no discomfort at all.”

On the way home through the dark, cold, fall air, Thyra’s father sighted a lamp being lit in their parsonage in the valley below and called his daughter’s attention to it.  Then the young girl thought that this too was what the old man in the cabin had seen.  “He had seen his Father’s house and knew that he soon would be home.  There would be no more sickness, pain, or loneliness and no more sorrow.  The light of his faith would lead him home.”

 “Without faith, we are as stained glass windows in the dark.” — Author Unknown


God’s Protection
Illustrations for Biblical Preaching,  Michael P. Green

Dr. James M. Gray, former president of the Moody Bible Institute, convalesced from a severe illness.  His physician, thinking that a change of scenery might bring the relaxation his patient needed, advised him to take an ocean voyage.

When arrangements for the journey were completed, Dr. Gray experienced an unexpected physical setback.  He was greatly disappointed and wondered why the heavenly Father had allowed this new affliction to come.  

About a week later, he picked up a newspaper that carried on the front page the tragic account of a steamer that had sunk after striking a reef in St. John’s harbor.  There were no survivors.  When Gray read that this was the ship he would have taken, he realized how perfectly the Lord had directed his way.  His temporary sickness had delivered him from certain death.

The Bible View #850 — Assorted

In This Issue:
A Failure?
Appearance of Evil
The Lament of a Backslider
Doing It on Their Own
A Good Example
A Burden for Others
Christ, Forever

Volume: 850      March 14, 2022
Theme: Assorted

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A Failure?
Cameron

Many years ago, a merchant’s business failed.   He went home greatly upset.

“What is the matter?” asked his wife.

“I am ruined.  I will be a beggar.  I have lost it all!” he exclaimed, pressing his hands to his forehead.

“All?” said his wife.  “No. I am left.”

“All, papa?” questioned his eldest boy.  “Here I am!”

“And I too,” piped in his little girl, running up and putting her arms around his neck.

“I’m not lost, Papa,” repeated Eddy.

“And you have your health left,” said his wife.

“And your hands to work with,” said the eldest, “and I can help you.”

“And your two feet, Papa, to carry you about and your two eyes to see with, Papa,” said little Eddie.

“And you have God’s promises,” said the grandmother.

“And a good God,” said his wife.

“And a Heaven to go to,” said his little girl.

“And Jesus, who came to fetch us there,” said his eldest.

“God forgive me!” said the poor merchant, bursting into tears.  “I have not lost it all.  What I have lost is nothing compared to what I have,” and he took comfort and was encouraged.

“He who knows no hardships will know no hardihood.  He who faces no calamity will need no courage.  Mysterious though it is, the characteristics in human nature which we love best grow in a soil with a strong mixture of trouble.”
— Harry Emerson Fosdick


Appearance of Evil
John Bate

“Abstain from all appearance of evil.” I Thessalonians 5:22

A thing may have the appearance of wrong-doing and not be evil in itself, as an apple may look to be sweet and sound but be sour and rotten.  Why then are we to abstain from the “appearance of evil”?

  1. Because most judge by appearance and would therefore judge us wrongfully.
  2. Because in judgment, our characters could be damaged, and Christianity be defamed.
  3. Because by following the appearance of doing something wrong, we could promote and encourage evil itself.
  4. Because we are commanded to keep from even looking like we are doing something sinful.
  5. Because it is directly inconsistent with the good we profess we do.
  6. Because by abstaining from even looking like we are doing something wrong, we do not appear as hypocrites.

“If you want your neighbor to see what the Christ spirit will do for him, let him see what it has done for you.”  — H. Beecher


The Lament of a Backslider
Author Unknown

Where is the Saviour now,
Whose smiles I once possessed?
Till He returns, I bow,
By heavy grief oppressed.
My days of happiness are gone,
And I am left to weep alone.
Where can the mourner go,
And tell his tale of grief?
Ah, who can soothe his woe,
Ah, who can give relief?
Earth cannot heal the wounded breast
Or give the troubled conscience rest.
Jesus, Thy smiles impart;
My gracious Lord, return,
Bind up my broken heart
And bid me cease to mourn;
Then shall this night of sorrow flee,
And peace in Heaven is found in Thee.



Doing It on Their Own
H. W. Beecher

Many say, “I can find God without the help of the Bible, or church, or minister.”  Very well.  Do so if you can. 

The ferry company would feel no jealousy of a man who should prefer to swim to New York City, rather than ride on their ferry.  Let him do so if he is able, and we will talk about it on the other shore, but probably trying to swim would be the thing that would bring him quickest to the boat.

So, God would have no jealousy of a man’s going to Heaven without the aid of the Bible, church, or minister, but let him try to do so, and it will be the surest way to bring him back to them for help.


A Good Example
Author Unknown

A chaplain told this story of a young soldier who consulted with a question of Christian duty.

“Last night,” said the young man, “in my barrack, before going to bed, I knelt and prayed in a low voice, when suddenly my comrades threw their boots at me and laughed.”

“Well,” replied the chaplain, “suppose you defer your prayer until you get into bed and then silently lift your heart to God?”

A week or two afterward, the young soldier called again.  “Well,” said the chaplain, “you took my advice, I suppose?  How has it gone?”

“Sir,” he answered, “I took your advice for one or two nights, but I thought it looked rather like I was denying my Saviour, and I once more knelt at my bedside and prayed in a low whisper as before.”

“And what happened?”

“Not one of them laughs now, sir. The whole fifteen each kneel and pray, as well.”

“I felt ashamed,” added the chaplain in narrating the story, “of the advice I had given him.  That young man was both wiser and bolder than I was.”

“A good example has twice the value of good advice.”



A Burden for Others
K. Arvine

Ancient history records that a city was besieged and was obliged to surrender at length.  In that city, two brothers had obliged the conquering general and, because of this, received permission to leave the city before it was destroyed and take with them as much of their property as they could lug.  The two youths appeared at the city’s gates, one of them carrying their father and the other their mother.

If we could all be as generous and burdened as those brothers were after we get saved.  We would be concerned to tell as many family members, friends, and neighbors the way to Heaven. More would be going there! 



Christ, Forever
S. Coley

When King Ptolemy built Pharos, he wanted his name upon it.  Sostratus, the architect, did not think that the king, who only paid the money for its construction, should get all the credit while he had none.  Sostratus put the king’s name on the front of the structure in plaster.  Underneath it, in the eternal granite, the architect had his name chiseled deep into the stone.

Over time, the sea dashed against the plaster and chipped it off bit by bit.  I dare say it lasted out the time of Ptolemy, but soon the plaster was chipped away, and there stood the name “Sostratus.”

I am sure that there are “waves” that will chip off all human names from the true church Christ built.  I know the name of Christ shall last forever after all others fade away.

The Bible View #849 — Church

In This Issue:
Dangers to A Church
Beware!
Why Should a Christian Go to Church?

Volume: 849      March 7, 2022
Theme: Church

The FREE printable versions (bulletin insert, large print, and e-mail versions) of this Bible View and many others can be found at https://openthoumineeyes.com/newsletters.html.

Are you reading the Bible every day?  If not, have the FREE Daily View Devotion e-mailed to you.  Learn something taught in a KJV chapter from a short commentary, read the chapter, and more spiritual “meat” for the hungry soul. Sign-up at https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/su/a26cc9M to start receiving it.


Dangers to A Church
Bill Brinkworth

The actual church is the believers of Christ wherever they may be. If a believer is at home, that is where the church is.  When the born-again child of God goes to the supermarket,  that is where the church is.
“For we are labourers together with God: ye are God’s husbandry, ye are God’s building.” I Corinthians 3:9“
Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ.” I Peter 2:5“
And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people.” II Corinthians 6:16

However, a physical church is an important place where believers meet to hear the Word of God’s teachings, a place to worship Him, and where they can be encouraged to serve and live for the Lord.  The building is a recognized place where most know they should be able to hear what the Bible teaches. Many attend, and because of the preaching and teaching, decide to be born again into God’s family.

Church

There are many dangers to the health and life-changing ministry that pastors and church attendees should be wary. Because of the local church’s importance, it faces many threats that could harm its role to the cause of Christ. Some demolishers that can weaken or destroy a God-honoring and obeying ministry include:

  • Using “bibles” that have changed or water-down what the preserved Word of God teaches.  There are over 350 different versions in the English language alone, each teaching something different after verses have been altered or deleted. 

    “Bibles” labeled as “new versions” should signal to a Christian that God is not now just giving us His Word.  It has been around since Old and New Testament times. God has preserved it for earlier believers, and it is safely kept for today’s Christians. 

    For English-speaking people, every word God had prophets, leaders, and men of God pen still has every “jot and tittle” (Matthew 5:18) preserved in the King James version.  Changing His words has weakened and destroyed many ministries.

To learn more why the KJV should be used for those speaking English, please view: https://www.openthoumineeyes.com/bible-answers/God%20Kept%20His%20Word.pdf  (Use the right arrow key to go through the presentation)

  • A lack of unbiblical doctrines taught and preached. A ministry will weaken and not grow if opinions are taught rather than “thus saith the Word of God.” God preserved His Word because it will change lives and even societies. His will and way will never change and it is recorded in His Word.
  • A lack of desire and attempts to reach others with the Gospel.  One essential goal of a Bible-obeying ministry should be to reach the lost so they can be saved.  If they are not sought and taught, there will be little growth in a ministry.  Too many churches are spiritually dead, as they are no longer a “saving station” nor a hospital for the spiritually wounded.
  • Unqualified or uncalled leadership in a church. The Bible clearly defines the qualifications of church pastors and deacons (I Timothy 3:2-13).  Those in charge that should not be instructing or preaching will also weaken and destroy a ministry.
    “Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood.” Act 20:28
  • Undealt with sin within the church.  The Bible warns of sin throughout its pages.  When sin is not preached against or is tolerated, the hand of God will be off that ministry!
  • Those sowing discord among the brethren.  Gossip against the preacher, teachers, and anyone within the ministry can also weaken and hurt a church.
    “These six things doth the LORD hate…  19 A false witness that speaketh lies, and he that soweth discord among brethren.” Proverbs 6:16-19
  • Home Bible study groups. Attending a local church every time its doors are open and one’s personal Bible study should be the primary sources of spiritual feeding. The intention of having extra Bible studies sounds edifiying, but they often can result in being hotbeds for “sowing discord” against the brethren and teaching false doctrines. Even a diet of television and radio preaching can sometimes sow disagreement against what one’s church is preaching from God’s Word.  Division can occur in a church because of those influences.
  • Covid and other infectious diseases. If you cannot attend because of health issues, do your best to stay in contact with your local church leaders and members. Although we do not want to spread disease to other church members, separation from other believers and being part of a local ministry can weaken and slowly kill a local church.  Lack of attendance also discourages the preacher and teachers and disheartens other church members.

A local Bible-believing, Scripture-obeying ministry is an essential need for children of God and surrounding communities. Lives have been improved, souls saved, and sin stopped by a church’s outreach and influence.

A church’s usefulness can easily be destroyed by allowing it to be weakened by many of the mentioned dangers. Do your best to keep its doors wide open so God’s will and way can be preached and practiced.  If its doors are closed and its message weakened, how will the nearby people know God’s truths?  Who will tell them if the local ministry is too weak to help?

“When the Devil saw that persecution would not stop the church, he changed to a different tactic.  He joined the church.  He began to hurt the church from the inside.  He still does that today.  He attacks the validity of the Word of God, and he tries to discredit the Gospel.  If that doesn’t work, he tries to discredit the man who preaches the Gospel, as he tried to discredit Paul.”  
— J. Vernon McGeePsalm 53:2



Beware!
Bill Brinkworth

The early church had many of the problems our churches have today. In Philippians 3, the church was warned of three particular dangers. The three “beware”s (Philippians 3:2) they were cautioned of were:

  • “… of dogs”. Although gentiles were often called “dogs,” it would hardly be likely that Paul, a missionary to the gentiles, would warn the Philippians (many of whom were converted gentiles, to look out for themselves. He may have been referring to the false shepherds (pastors) that were only in the ministry for themselves, as described in Isaiah 52:8-11: “The Lord GOD which gathereth the outcasts of Israel saith, … All ye beasts of the field, come to devour, yea, all ye beasts in the forest. His watchmen are blind: they are all ignorant, they are all dumb dogs, they cannot bark; sleeping, lying down, loving to slumber. Yea, they are greedy dogs which can never have enough, and they are shepherds that cannot understand: they all look to their own way, every one for his gain, from his quarter.”
  • “… evil workers”. These may be the same villains who were self-purposing ministers, sowing their wrong doctrines and leading the “sheep” astray. They could have been “wolves in sheep’s clothing.”
  • “… of the concision …”. “Concision” means cutting off. The Philippians were to beware of those still adhering to the law. Instead of cutting away the sin in their lives as Paul was teaching (Philippians 3:3), they tried to stick to the Old Testament laws to please God.

As taught in Ephesians 6, there is a spiritual war going on. We have to be watchful for the enemy, no matter where he hides. Sometimes we find him operating even in good Bible-believing churches. That is why it is important to read and know the Scriptures for ourselves to discern when false doctrines are taught.


Why Should a Christian Go to Church?
Bill Brinkworth

Attendance to any church is NOT the way to Heaven, but it is essential for a Christian’s growth. If one is truly saved, he should:

Wanna Go to Church – The hungry,s born-again person should have a desire to be fed from the Word of God, as the preacher delivers it. He also should desire fellowship with like-minded people.
“My soul longeth, yea, even fainteth for the courts of the LORD: my heart and my flesh crieth out for the living God.” Psalm 84:2
“Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household of God;” Ephesians 2:19
“That there should be no schism in the body; but that the members should have the same care one for another.” I Corinthians 12:25

Wanna Grow – Church is one of the most important places where a Christian can hear God’s Word to find out how he can improve himself, obey God, and learn what God has for him to do.
“Those that be planted in the house of the LORD shall flourish in the courts of our God.” Psalm 92:13

Wanna Obey – We are commanded to go.
“Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.” Hebrews 10:25

Wanna Pray – Although it is not the only place a Christian can pray, it is a good place.
“And said unto them, It is written, My house shall be called the house of prayer; but ye have made it a den of thieves.” Matthew 21:13


It makes one wonder when a person, who claims to be saved, does not want to attend church and finds excuses for avoiding it. Not regularly attending church is contrary to Scripture.

“Church: You are not too bad to go in. You are not too good to stay out.”
— Author Unknown

The Bible View #848 — Seeking

In This Issue:
What Would Have Happened If He Did Not Seek?
Knocking At Mercy’s Door

Volume: 848      February 28, 2022
Theme: Seeking  

The FREE printable versions (bulletin insert, large print, and e-mail versions) of this Bible View and many others can be found at https://openthoumineeyes.com/newsletters.html.

Are you reading the Bible every day?  If not, have the FREE Daily View Devotion e-mailed to you.  Learn something taught in a KJV chapter from a short commentary, read the chapter, and more spiritual “meat” for the hungry soul.  Sign-up at https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/su/a26cc9M to start receiving it.


What Would Have Happened If He Did Not Seek?
Bill Brinkworth

Moses was doing the task his hands found to do.  He was busy watching the flock of his father-in-law, Jethro.

In that remote place, the shepherd saw an unusual sight.   He saw a bush that burned. Its flames did not consume the plant.  It kept burning.

In the dried-out area, one would have expected the bush to flash into flames and then shortly be reduced to ashes.  But not this one. The fire blazed without consuming the shrub.

The shepherd was curious about that anomaly. He had never seen anything like it.  The desert-savvy herdsman was interested enough to stop what he was doing and examine the unnatural occurrence.
“And Moses said, I will now turn aside, and see this great sight, why the bush is not burnt.” Exodus 3:3

In the flame, he saw an angel of the Lord.  The messenger of God saw the shepherd make a move to seek answers.
“And the angel of the LORD appeared unto him in a flame of fire out of the midst of a bush: and he looked, and, behold, the bush burned with fire, and the bush was not consumed.” Exodus 3:2

Because of Moses’ desire to seek answers, his life changed.  The Lord saw his effort to seek truth and then spoke to the shepherd. Much of the following chapters in Exodus reveal what Moses was told to do, how God used the one-time shepherd, and how the man’s curiosity changed his life and Israel’s; all because Moses sought answers.

How would the great leader and his nation fared if the humble shepherd did not first seek what he did not understand? What would have happened if Moses ran from the curiosity?  History would have been different that is for sure.

How would your life be different if you did not seek to get answers to questions, especially about the things of God?  God is always around us.  He is everywhere.  However, to first have a relationship and knowledge of His will and way, one must first have an open, curious mind willing to seek Him.

The Bible has a lot to say about seeking God and His truths.  Some of those truths are:

God knows who is truly looking. He is particularly watching those that are open to His way and wisdom.
“The LORD looked down from heaven upon the children of men, to see if there were any that did understand, and seek God.” Psalm 14:2  Also Psalm 53:2, Matthew 6:33.
“I love them that love me; and those that seek me early shall find me.” Proverbs 8:17

If you sincerely look for God and His truths, you will find Him.  As God saw Moses’ sincerity, He wants to see one’s genuineness in looking for Him.
“But if from thence thou shalt seek the LORD thy God, thou shalt find him, if thou seek him with all thy heart and with all thy soul.” Deuteronomy 4:29  Also: I Chron. 22:19.
“Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you:” Matthew 7:7  Also: Luke 22:19.

The key to one’s searching and God revealing Himself to them is their “heart” condition.
“If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.” II Chron. 7:14 Also: Psalm 63:1, 119:2, Ecclesiastes 7:25.
“And they entered into a covenant to seek the LORD God of their fathers with all their heart and with all their soul;” II Chronicle 15:12 “
And thou, Solomon my son, know thou the God of thy father, and serve him with a perfect heart and with a willing mind: for the LORD searcheth all hearts, and understandeth all the imaginations of the thoughts: if thou seek him, he will be found of thee; but if thou forsake him, he will cast thee off for ever.”  I Chronicles 28:9

One’s genuine search for God will involve a heart that will change and trust Him.
“And they that know thy name will put their trust in thee: for thou, LORD, hast not forsaken them that seek thee.” Psalm 9:10

One of Jesus’ purposes of coming to Earth was to save those that have a seeking heart. There is still an opportunity to be “found” if one genuinely looks to God for answers.
“For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost.” Luke 19:10  Also: Luke 17:33.

One’s search for God and His truths will be a lifetime effort.
“Seek the LORD and his strength, seek his face continually.” I Chronicles 16:11  
“Seek the LORD, and his strength: seek his face evermore.” Psalm 105:4

There are great rewards for the one seeking God.
“But rather seek ye the kingdom of God; and all these things shall be added unto you.” Luke 12:31

The wicked will not seek God. Many could care less if they have His truths and way or not.
“The wicked, through the pride of his countenance, will not seek after God: God is not in all his thoughts.” Psalm  10:4 

The wicked seek the wrong things.
“And when the people were gathered thick together, he began to say, This is an evil generation: they seek a sign; and there shall no sign be given it, but the sign of Jonas the prophet.” Luke 11:29“
For all seek their own, not the things which are Jesus Christ’s.” Philippians 2:21


God is not fooled by a person looking for something to ease their guilt or quiet their convicted spirit. Often they only find false, man-made religion. He knows the ones with a genuine desire to know God’s will and way.  When one is truly sincere,  God will make Himself and His way known to the seeker.

Moses’ life changed when he sought the truth.  Today one seeking God, no matter what obstacles are thrown in one’s path, can also find His clear direction and godly wisdom.

Not seeking His way will lead to a life with many regrets and, if salvation is not sought, an eternity in the Lake of Fire. Seek God and His wisdom while you still have the opportunity.

“God looked down from heaven upon the children of men, to see if there were any that did understand, that did seek God.”  Psalm 53:2


Knocking At Mercy’s Door
Morning and Evening, C. H. Spurgeon

“Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: 8 For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.” Matthew 7:7-8

We know of a place in England where a dole of bread was served to every passerby who chose to ask for it. Whoever the traveler may be, he has but to knock at the door of St. Cross Hospital, and there is the dole of bread for him.

Jesus Christ so loveth sinners that He has built a St. Cross Hospital so that whenever a sinner is hungry, he has but to knock and have his wants supplied. Nay, He has done better; He has attached to this Hospital of the Cross a bath, and whenever a soul is filthy, he has but to go there and be washed. The fountain is always full and always efficacious.

No sinner ever went into it and found that it could not wash away his stains. Sins which were scarlet have all disappeared, and the sinner will be whiter than snow.

As if this were not enough, there is attached to this Hospital of the Cross a wardrobe.  A sinner making application simply as a sinner may be clothed from head to foot.  If he wishes to be a soldier, he may not merely have a garment for ordinary wear, but armour which shall cover him from the sole of his foot to the crown of his head. If he asks for a sword, he shall have that given to him and a shield too. Nothing good for him shall be denied him. He shall have spending money so long as he lives and has an eternal heritage of glorious treasure when he enters into the joy of his Lord.

If all these things are to be had by merely knocking at mercy’s door, O my soul, knock hard this morning, and ask large things of thy generous Lord. Leave not the throne of grace till all thy wants have been spread before the Lord, and until by faith thou hast a comfortable prospect that they shall be all supplied.

No bashfulness need retard when Jesus invites. No unbelief should hinder when Jesus promises. No cold-heartedness should restrain when such blessings are to be obtained.

“And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask any thing according to his will, he heareth us:” I John 5:14’

The Bible View #847 — Our Time

In This Issue:
What’s Really Important?
Not Much Remained
Some Things Are Missing

Volume: 847      February 22, 2022
Theme: Our Time

The printable versions of THE BIBLE VIEW (including large print and church bulletin inserts) are available at https://www.openthoumineeyes.com/

Are you reading the Bible every day?  If not, have the FREE Daily View Devotion e-mailed to you.  Learn something taught in a KJV chapter from a short commentary, read the chapter, and more spiritual “meat” for the hungry soul.  Sign-up at https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/su/a26cc9M to start receiving it.


What’s Really Important?
Bill Brinkworth

“Better is a dry morsel, and quietness therewith, than an house full of sacrifices with strife.” Proverbs 17:1

A friend of mine has a deep appreciation for the “quietness” spoken of in Proverbs 17:1.  He is a very hard worker.  No dust ever settles under his feet.  His fellow workers will attest to that.  However, there are times when he sits back and relaxes.  He drinks in peace and calm and marvels at how it soothes him.  He manages the right balance between work and having a quiet time.

So many have never experienced or have long forgotten what it is like to have “peace.”  They go, go, and go.  Their day starts in haste, and it ends that way.  Meals, work, school, football games, movies, dance recitals, and chores gobble up their time.  Days are scheduled so that one event after another is planned and that there is no free-time.  There is no quietness for them to relax, “smell the roses,” and enjoy the life God gave them. 

Relationships get neglected.  Because of not having spare time, there are never moments to get alone with their spouse, family, and friends.  Seldom is there ever a time to get apart with their God and learn His will, way, and direction.  One wonders if their “busyness” is a cover-up to avoid reflecting on actions and relationships with others and their Creator.

“Well, we have to do all we do to have what we have,” is often the explanation.  Indeed, those things cannot be obtained by sitting around with your feet propped up, but are all those things really necessary?  Is forfeiting time with family, yourself, and God worth the price you will pay?

The strife and turmoil created by being so busy leaves one empty and drained.  One may have done many wonderful things and have obtained many of their wants, but what have their sacrifices cost them?  Their children have gotten used to parents being too busy to spend time with them, so they created their own lives without their mothers and fathers.  Wives left alone by always working husbands have compensated by having their own life, excluding dates and personal time with their sposes.  Individuals, families, and eventually society grow apart because many self-absorbed people met their own goals and have excluded all others.

As this Proverb reminds us, it may be more enjoyable and profitable to have less (a “dry morsel”) than to have the ulcers and anxiety that often come from a jammed-packed life too busy to enjoy what they should. 

Re-evaluate what your priorities should be. Our lives should be more about people, relationships, and devotion to God than it is about things.  Enjoy quietness.


Not Much Remained
Bill Brinkworth

“Whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow.  For what is your life?  It is even a vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away.” James 4:14

After the four-hour labor of three workers, a large area in a wooded area was cleared of trees and brush.  The waste was carried to one place.   A pile 18 feet in diameter and seven feet tall resulted from all that work.  It was a massive heap of trimmed branches and cut trees.

Although I originally intended to burn the heap, I deemed it too large to incinerate.  Instead, I ran the brush through my small wood chipper.

The job was massive and took three days.  After the hard work was complete, the remaining pile of chips was only four feet long and three-foot-high.  Hundreds of feet of trees and brush, when ground up, resulted in only a tiny heap of ¾” wood chips.  There was not much to show for the tree’s growth and our labor.

Several years previously, I had cleared another wooded area.  The resulting pile of small trees and brush was much smaller, about eight feet long and five feet tall.  It was burnt, and after the fire was out and the ashes cooled, there was barely enough of the plant remains to fill a five-gallon bucket.

One day, even this world will have little to show for all the building, civilizations, technology, lives, history, and accomplishments.  After the rapture, Great Tribulation (as recorded in The Revelation), and the 1,000-year millennial reign of Christ, the Earth will be “passed away” (II Peter 3:10, Mat. 24:35, Isaiah 65:17, Dan. 2:44).  Nothing will remain of all man had made for thousands of years. 

Elegant buildings, towering skyscrapers, technology, and all that remained on the Earth will be replaced by a new Earth that God will create.  It will be an Earth without the curse of sin.  All that man valued will be gone.  There will be little to show for humanity’s efforts.
“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.” Rev. 21:1 Also: Isaiah 65:17, I John 2:17.

Throughout our lives, we have eaten much, earned much, accomplished much, been to many places, experienced much, seen incredible things, met and talked to thousands of people, and made some difference in this world.  However, when our life is over, like the remnants of the trees and saplings and eventually the Earth, there will not be much left to show for our lives and efforts, just some bones in a casket or a small pile of dust.

Depressing, but a reality that little of man’s efforts will remain to show his existence.  However, there can be a glorious eternal future for all.  Those that are made “righteous” by believing and trusting Christ’s sacrificial death as payment for their sins can have an eternal life (John 3:16, 36, John 4:14, John 5:24, John 6:40).
“And these shall go away into everlasting punishment: but the righteous into life eternal.” Mat. 25:46

What a waste of life to not invest one’s eternal soul in what will last for eternity (John 6:27).  The unsaved have put no faith or trust in God’s way of Heaven and will be terrified by the Lake of Fire that awaits them. 

However, many saved people will go to Heaven but have not wisely invested their time on Earth.  They have not labored to store up “treasures in Heaven” (Mat. 6:20). They have frivolously spent their opportunity in this life on vain priorities (Gal. 6:8) that will not matter in their eternal future.
“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.” Mat. 6:19-21

Christian, you have time here on Earth to do as the Lord commands. You should lay up treasures for your future. Obey the Bible and do for the Lord what He allows you to do for Him. Do not arrive in an eternal Paradise and find that you have done nothing or of little value for your eternity.

“In this world, it is not what we take up but what we give up that makes us rich.” — Beecher


Some Things Are Missing
Bill Brinkworth

“And the priests brought in the ark of the covenant of the LORD unto his place, to the oracle of the house, into the most holy place, even under the wings of the cherubims: 8 For the cherubims spread forth their wings over the place of the ark, and the cherubims covered the ark and the staves thereof above. … 10 There was nothing in the ark save the two tables which Moses put therein at Horeb, when the LORD made a covenant with the children of Israel, when they came out of Egypt.” II Chronicles 5:7-10

After worshipping God in the tent tabernacle Moses had built while Israel lived in the wilderness,  King David desired to create a permanent place for God.  Because of David’s past, God would not let him construct it, but He would let his son, Solomon, build it.

After the ornate temple was completed, Solomon moved in many of the objects needed for worship.  One of the most prized and important was the Ark of the Covenant.  The ark and its “Mercy Seat” lid were where God would sit.

When placed in the wilderness tabernacle, the ark contained reminders of what God had done for Israel.  Inside the golden chest was originally the stone, ten commandments God had Moses inscribe, a pot containing miraculously provided manna as a reminder of how God fed Israel, and Aaron’s budding rod that God used to prove who He was.

Because of Israel’s sin, they lost control of the Ark several times to the enemy.  Although God’s people eventually got the Ark back, some reminders of God’s miraculous interventions were missing from the chest. When it finally was put in the new temple, many of those memories were lost.  All that remained inside was the copy of the Ten Commandments.

Many Christians start similarly.  After they are saved from eternal punishment for their sins, God fills their life with new, precious proofs and reminders of His goodness to them.  They were “new creatures” (II Cor. 5:17), just as God promised He would make of them if they would trust and follow His commandments.

However, missteps, mistakes, and sin often take away the remembrances of what God had done for many. One treasured memory after another is forgotten and lost as the child of God falls further from obedience to God’s commandments. 

Soon little remains of the encouraging presence of God they once experienced and were joyful over.  Their joy has been robbed by less important “priorities.” Worldly things become more important than obeying and serving the Lord.

Christian, do not allow your real treasures to be lost! Do not let temptations and iniquity steal the joy and usefulness God desires you to have. What God has done and will do in your life is more valuable than the temporary things this world may offer.  Guard what He has given and is doing with you by staying far away from sin and disobedience.

The Bible View #846 — Service

In This Issue:
Daddy’s Little Helper
Christ’s Sacrifice Versus Ours
Don’t Be in a Hurry to Leave
Which Way?
The Service of Love

Volume: 846      February 14, 2022
Theme: Service

The Printable versions of THE BIBLE VIEW (including large print and church bulletin inserts) are available at https://www.openthoumineeyes.com/

Are you reading the Bible every day?  If not, have the FREE Daily View Devotion e-mailed to you.  Learn something taught in a KJV chapter from a short commentary, read the chapter, and more spiritual “meat” for the hungry soul.  Sign-up at https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/su/a26cc9Mto start receiving it.


Daddy’s Little Helper
Bill Brinkworth

Daddy laid on his back, looking up at the slowly dripping kitchen drain.  An open toolbox lay just out of reach as he struggled to reach for the pipe wrench from his position under the sink.

The observing toddler saw what his daddy was trying to do and saw an opportunity to help.  Waddling over to the tempting array of shiny pieces of metal, the youngster grabbed what he was sure his father was reaching.  Dragging a heavy hammer over to his dad, he tried his best to put it into his parent’s hands.

“Why, thank you, son.” although it was not the tool he wanted, the father felt he needed to encourage his son for helping. 

The young boy beamed with pride as he felt needed and was a part of his father’s interesting task.

The unneeded hammer was placed down on the cabinet’s floor, and “Papa” asked for help from the boy.  “Can you get the large red wrench for me?”

Sauntering over to the toolbox, the boy again scanned the box of gadgets.  He, of course, did not know what “red” was, and a “wrench” was just as foreign to him.  With a big smile, he grabbed what he thought was what his dad wanted, carried it to the plumber-wanna-be, and accidentally dropped the heavy tool on his father’s chest.

The father chuckled at the wrong choice.  It was not the right tool, but he still could use the pliers his son gave him, and besides, it would make the boy feel useful.

“Thanks so much, son.  This will do the trick,” and “Papa” labored, making do with the pliers he was handed.

All would giggle at the youngster’s attempt at helping the grown-up.  Perhaps, we have even seen a little tike trying to help an adult.

Although the youngster genuinely tried to be a big help, the father really could have done the job faster and better without the little one’s assistance.  However, the love the toddler showed by wanting to help was a joy to the parent.  The child’s effort was more important than the boy’s knowledge of tools, and that attitude needed to be encouraged.

Our God’s reaction to attempts to serve Him is very similar to the fictional account of the helping toddler.   The Creator made this Earth, and all that is in and on it in just six days.  He certainly does not need our help.

However, God loves to see His “children” want to help Him and return the love He gives them.  Our service efforts may not be much in the light of what God does daily, but our striving to help Him is what He loves and desires.  He certainly could do everything better without our “help,” but it is the giving, loving attitude that God wants of us.

We owe God so much.  Without His mercy and graciousness, we would be or have nothing.  All believers should love Him with all their hearts. 
“Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind.” Matthew 22:37  Also: Deuteronomy 6:5, 11:1, Mark 12:30, Luke 10:27.

Our actions should show our love towards our Creator and Saviour.  Our sincerest attempts to serve the Lord may be much like the toddler’s attempts to help his father.  We may not be or cannot do much for our Great God, but He desires for us to serve Him.
“I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.” Roman 12:1
“Neither yield ye your members as instruments of unrighteousness unto sin: but yield yourselves unto God, as those that are alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness unto God.” Rom. 6:13  Also: I Corinthians 6:13.

It is an honor to serve and obey our worthy God.  Pray and ask Him to show what you can do for Him.  While waiting for God’s direction in your life, do whatever you see as a need.  The desire to serve God in any capacity is the heart of intent He desires to use.
“Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might; for there is no work, nor device, nor knowledge, nor wisdom, in the grave, whither thou goest.” Ecclesiastes 9:10

Good works and deeds will save no one from a tormenting eternity.  However, if you are a born-again child of God (John 3:3), you should want to show gratitude and love towards the One who loves you so.  Your heavenly “Daddy” desires you to serve Him.  Will you happily be a vessel for Him to use?
“For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: 9 Not of works, lest any man should boast.” Ephesians 2:8-9
“Serve the LORD with gladness: come before his presence with singing.” Psalm 100:2

“A Christian should make a difference in this sinfully dark world!  He is the only ‘light’ many will see!”

Christ’s Sacrifice Versus Ours
N. Adams, 1892

While Christ has shown us his hands and feet, let us show him ours as a living sacrifice — our reasonable service.  Our hands may be full of prosperity in business.  They may give and receive the grasp of new friendships and love.  Some may be offered in marriage.
“Behold my hands and my feet, that it is I myself: handle me, and see; for a spirit hath not flesh and bones, as ye see me have.  40 And when he had thus spoken, he shewed them his hands and his feet.” Luke 24:39-40

Our willing-to-serve hands and heart may receive from God the richest blessing ever laid in them.  That blessing was purchased by Jesus’ hands, which were nailed to the “tree.”  May we be able to show Christ our hands and our feet with joy and peace and do with them as He would have us do.

“The more we serve Christ, the less we will serve self.”


Don’t Be in a Hurry to Leave
C. H. Spurgeon, 1906

Whitefield and a company of ministers talked together and expressed their eagerness to go to Heaven.  Mr. Tennant was the only man who differed from them.  He said he did not wish to die.  He thought that if Whitefield considered for a time, he would not want to be gone either.  He said, “If you hire a man to do a day’s work, and he is saying all the day, ‘I wish it were evening.  I wish it were time to go home,’ you would think, ‘What a lazy fellow he is,’ and you would wish you had never hired him.”

“So,” Mr. Tennant said, “I am afraid it is nothing but our idleness that often prompts us to desire to be away from our work.  If there be a soul to win, let me not stop until I have won it.  Truly, some of us might summon up courage enough to say, ‘I would fain barter Heaven for the glory of Christ, and not only wait twenty years out of Heaven, if I may have twenty years of glorifying Him the better.”

“Do all the good you can, by all the means you can, in all the ways you can, in all the places you can, at all the times you can, to all the people you can, and as long as you can.”  — John Wesley


Which Way?
C. H. Spurgeon

Nothing for a Christian to do?  You are lazy, sirs.  Lazy and sluggish, or you would never raise such a question.  It is not, “What should I do,” but, “Where shall I begin doing what the Lord would have me do?”  

I would say, “Begin at the place that is nearest to you and where you are burdened to work.”  So, they did when they rebuilt the walls of Jerusalem.  Every man built opposite his own house.  There, the advantage was he did not have to walk two miles to his work at noon and then come back at night.  He built opposite his own house, so he was spared all that trouble.  When he had a little leisure time, when he went to his dinner, he could sit and look at his work and think how to do it better the next time; there was a further advantage in that.

Much economy and great benefit would come if Christians worked near where they live and took up that part of Christian service most congenial to their circumstances and tastes.  Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, next to thine own door, and do it with all thy might.


The Service of Love
C. H. Spurgeon

It is said that the soldiers of Persia were driven into battle and that the sound of the whips of their generals could be heard even while the war was raging. They lashed on the unwilling ranks to force them to fulfill their part in the fray.

Not so went the Greeks to battle.  They rushed in like lions amidst a flock of sheep to tear their prey.  They fought for their country, their temples, their lives, for all that they held dear, and cheerfully and seriously did they engage in the war.

The difference between the Greeks and the Persians is just the difference I want to describe among the professed followers of our Lord.  The genuine Christian serves God because he loves him, not just because he fears Hell.  He knows he has been delivered from condemnation, being washed by Jesus’ blood.

The Christian should not serve the Lord expecting to earn Heaven.  He knows better than that.  Heaven is not to be merited by our paltry, poor works.  Heaven is a Christian’s inheritance since Christ has given it to him.

A Christian serves God because he loves Him.  He is drawn by God’s love towards him and wants to love Him in return.

“God doesn’t call the equipped.  He equips the called.”

The Bible View #845 — Why the Troubles?

In This Issue:
… But God Had Different Plans
Why They Smell So Good
When God Does the Pruning
Learned Sympathy

Volume: 845      February 7, 2022
Theme: Why the Troubles?


The Printable versions of THE BIBLE VIEW (including large print and church bulletin inserts) are available at https://www.openthoumineeyes.com/

Are you reading the Bible every day?  If not, have the FREE Daily View Devotion e-mailed to you.  Learn something taught in a KJV chapter from a short commentary, read the chapter, and more spiritual “meat” for the hungry soul.    Sign-up at https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/su/a26cc9M to start receiving it.


… But God Had Different Plans
Bill Brinkworth

We all, at one time or another, have had hard times.  Sometimes those difficulties are caused by a group or an individual.  It seems that they are in control and changing the direction of one’s life. 

However, even if situations are meant to hamper or hurt, there could be a good result in the future.  Joseph in Genesis can certainly attest to that. 

The young man could not help that his father, Israel, favored him.  Israel’s blessings on his son made Joseph’s siblings quite jealous.  Their jealousy festered, and their hearts became bitter to the innocent younger brother.  It was not long until their bitterness resulted in their throwing the boy into a pit.  An opportunity arose, and they sold their sibling into slavery.

From there, many hardships happened to the teenager.  Joseph was sold in Egypt to Potiphar.  There he served his master, but “.. the Lord was with Joseph…” (Genesis 39:1).  He was in a bad situation, but God had a purpose for the boy.

Later a lie from Potiphar’s wife got Joeseph thrown in prison.  Even in this horrible situation, “… the Lord was with Joseph…” (Gen. 39:21).

While in prison and after some time, God used Joseph.  After a series of God-directed events, Joseph became second in command over Egpyt. 

Joseph spared Egypt and his own family from a  consuming famine from his new lofty leadership role.  All the terrible happenings in his life were used to place him where God used him to help many. 

Those hard times may have been intended to abuse and use him, but the hand of God allowed those circumstances to put Joseph in the place the Lord needed him.  As the powerful man stood before his family, Joseph was able to say to his brothers, “Now therefore be not grieved, nor angry with yourselves, that ye sold me hither: for God did send me before you to preserve life.” (Gen. 45:5)  Also: Gen. 45:7, 8.  Joseph realized all through his difficulties, God had plans for him.

Others have also found themselves facing unfair treatment, as did Joseph.  While wearied and discouraged at the end of their tumultuous trials, they also found that God used events to put them in a position where God also could use them.

God allowed Satan to do his worst to the godly Job.  After perhaps a year of losing possessions and having friends and family turn against the non-waivering child of God, Job was blessed with much more than he originally had.
“And the LORD turned the captivity of Job, when he prayed for his friends: also the LORD gave Job twice as much as he had before.” Job 42:10

Moses remembered all the years Israel faced hardship and servitude in Egypt but saw how God dealt with Pharoah and the Egyptians in His timing. Israel then saw that their prayers for freedom were answered as God led them to a land He had for them.
“… 4 Ye have seen what I did unto the Egyptians, and how I bare you on eagles’ wings, and brought you unto myself.” Exodus 19:3-4

God used the hatred of the Jews,  the cruelty of Roman soldiers, and the betrayal of Judas to give us eternal hope because of Jesus’ death.  God’s only Son was beaten, mocked, embarrassed, and nailed to the cross so that sinners would have an acceptable payment to cover their sins.  We are blessed because of His sacrifice, and now Jesus sits on the right hand of God.

The apostle Paul also was on the receiving end of unfair treatment.  However, what seemed like misfortune on his part, God used those methods to make him a witness in Rome.
“And the night following the Lord stood by him, and said,  Be of good cheer, Paul: for as thou hast testified of me in Jerusalem, so must thou bear witness also at Rome.” Acts 23:11

We should also recognize that perhaps something happening in our life is ordered by the Lord.  A child of God was bought by the price of His Son’s blood.  If born-again into His family, we are His.  God will use His own as he sees fit.
“For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s.” I Corinthians 6:20  Also: I Cor. 7:23.

So, child of God, first examine yourself if you find yourself in trying times.  Are you reaping what you have sowed in sin’s field, and maybe you are facing iniquity’s consequences?  Is it possible that you are not a child of God, and He is using your situation to get you to turn to Him for salvation?  If you are sure of your salvation, is God trying to get your attention to change your course?

If self-examination does not reveal any reasons, it may be quite possible that you are in the same boat as the above heroes of the faith were and so many other Christians have found themselves.  It may be God has future plans for you, and He is moving you to the place He can use you.
“Commit thy works unto the LORD, and thy thoughts shall be established.  4 The LORD hath made all things for himself: yea, even the wicked for the day of evil.”  Proverbs 16:3-4

Be encouraged, Christian, if you find yourself in a similar situation like so many others before you.  You are on the winning side, so be patient, always do right, and wait on the Lord to use you the way He desires.
“And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.” Romans 8:28


Why They Smell So Good
Bowden

“You smell delightfully fragrant,” said the gravel path to a bed of chamomile flowers.

“We have been trodden on,” replied the chamomiles.

“Does that cause you to smell so good?” asked the gravel path. “Treading on me produces no sweetness.”

“Our natures are different,” answered the chamomiles.

“Gravel walkways only become harder by being trodden upon.”

The flowers explained, “When we are pressed down by footsteps and bruised when the dew is upon us, we give forth the sweet smell which you are now smelling.”

Like the trodden upon flowers, a Christian’s trials and tribulations can also make him have a sweet-smelling attitude.  After the worst of difficult times, he can be the strongest and shiniest example of God’s grace.

“God’s stretching the strings of His violin is only to make the music better.”   — Watson, 1696


When God Does the Pruning
Downame, 1644

Through God’s infinite mercy, we who were wild branches barren of all good fruit of holiness are grafted into the true Vine, Jesus Christ.  Because of Him, we are receiving all God’s grace and sap.  We are enabled to bring forth the pleasant grapes of new obedience.

If we are left alone and allowed to run away with uncontrolled liberty, we would be like the vine which is never pruned.  We would return to our old natural wildness.  We would bring forth no other fruit than those sour grapes of sin. 

However, our heavenly Vintager, for His glory and our good, cuts away the superfluities of our licentious liberty.  He prunes us with His knife of affliction and trials that we may become more fruitful in all holy duties.

“I am the true vine, and my Father is the husbandman.  Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh away: and every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit.”  John 15:1-2


Learned Sympathy
W. M. Taylor

One night, wandering the streets of London in disguise, King Henry the Eighth was met at a bridge by some guards.  Because he did not give a good account of what he was doing at night, the king was locked up in Poultry Compter without fire, candle, or food.  On being released from his prison, he granted thirty chaldrons of coals and a quantity of bread for the night prisoners in the Compter.

Experience brings sympathy, as it did to the King.  Those who have felt sharp afflictions, terrible convictions, racking doubts, and violent temptations will be zealous in consoling those in a similar condition.  Our experience of such difficult times can help us be a blessing and an encouragement to those that are now facing similar trials.


Romans 5:1-5
“Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ: 2 By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God.  3 And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; 4 And patience, experience; and experience, hope: 5 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.”