O MY SOUL, BLESS GOD!

When I woke up this morning I looked out my window and the Sun had not risen yet and for some reason I had the thought, Is the Sun going to rise? Then later as I was going about my daily chores the Holy Spirit spoke, "There will be more Sunrises and more Sunsets", which had a urgency to it. I searched the Biblical Meaning and PSALMS 103:1-22 was one of the scriptures given. Also a Blog post showed up in the search titled "Sunrise and Sunset: Evidence of God’s Goodness." The post also had the same scriptures, so I read it, and because of the urgency when the words were given I'm sharing that blog info at the bottom of my blog post.

PSALMS 103 1-2 O my soul, bless God.

    From head to toe, I’ll bless his holy name!

O my soul, bless God,

    don’t forget a single blessing!

3-5     He forgives your sins—every one.

    He heals your diseases—every one.

    He redeems you from hell—saves your life!

    He crowns you with love and mercy—a paradise crown.

    He wraps you in goodness—beauty eternal.

    He renews your youth—you’re always young in his presence.

6-18 God makes everything come out right;

    he puts victims back on their feet.

He showed Moses how he went about his work,

    opened up his plans to all Israel.

God is sheer mercy and grace;

    not easily angered, he’s rich in love.

He doesn’t endlessly nag and scold,

    nor hold grudges forever.

He doesn’t treat us as our sins deserve,

    nor pay us back in full for our wrongs.

As high as heaven is over the earth,

    so strong is his love to those who fear him.

And as far as sunrise is from sunset,

    he has separated us from our sins.

As parents feel for their children,

    God feels for those who fear him.

He knows us inside and out,

    keeps in mind that we’re made of mud.

Men and women don’t live very long;

    like wildflowers they spring up and blossom,

But a storm snuffs them out just as quickly,

    leaving nothing to show they were here.

God’s love, though, is ever and always,

    eternally present to all who fear him,

Making everything right for them and their children

    as they follow his Covenant ways

    and remember to do whatever he said.

19-22 God has set his throne in heaven;

    he rules over us all. He’s the King!

So bless God, you angels,

    ready and able to fly at his bidding,

    quick to hear and do what he says.

Bless God, all you armies of angels,

    alert to respond to whatever he wills.

Bless God, all creatures, wherever you are—

    everything and everyone made by God.

And you, O my soul, bless God!

"The real message in sunrises and sunsets is their predictability. Every day the sun comes up, and every evening it goes back down. No need to be sad when it sets, or to worry whether it will rise again the next morning. It will. Some days the sky may be covered in thick clouds that hide the sun from view, but we don’t doubt that it’s up there shining away, or worry that it won’t rise again the next day. We can count on it". ~Bits & Pieces of "Sunrise and Sunset: Evidence of God’s Goodness"

GOD LOOKS INTO THE HEART

                                      

The cure for Saul’s affliction came through David’s music, and it was two-fold. 

First, Saul Benefited From Temporary Spiritual Deliverance: Whatever one believes concerning the identity and/or scope of the “evil, distressing spirit,” this much is clear the music had the power to cause the spirit to depart from Saul. 

The implications here are important for the discussion of the morality of music because the ability of David’s music to interrupt spiritual oppression qualifies its moral substance.

The text is not implying, by any stretch of the imagination, that music has the power to deliver men from their sin. Only the gospel of Jesus Christ contains that atoning power (cf. John 14:6; Ephesians 2:8–10).

The point here is that the music created by David evidenced the unique ability to either directly remove the distressing spirit or indirectly create an atmosphere whereby the spirit could no longer distress Saul.

Both possibilities direct us to the same conclusion. The elements of David’s music were able to render the spirit unable or unwilling to continue its oppression of Saul. One must not relegate to obscurity this representation of music’s power.

The Cure for King Saul’s Affliction: Physical Deliverance

Second in this two-fold cure, Saul benefited from temporary physical deliverance: The word used here is ravach, which means “to be spacious or wide, cause enlargement, relief.” It may also contain the idea of feeling relieved. 

This word is also used in Job 32:20 where Job seeks relief from terrible abdominal pain. The word signifies that Saul’s body felt complete relief from the affliction. Medical research has proven that the right kind of music can speed physical healing in war casualties.

A writer points out the similarity of this Hebrew word with the word translated “spirit, wind, breath” and believes that Saul’s affliction may have included difficulty in breathing.

David’s music was powerful enough to bring about temporary, complete physical relief from the severe agony that Saul was experiencing.

Some have used Saul’s murderous treachery in Chapters 18 and 19 to argue that the music could not help Saul. The context of these two examples is key to answering this objection. One must remember that David had become a national hero by slaying Goliath in Chapter 17.

King Saul had promoted David from a lowly shepherd to the King’s royal armor-bearer, and now the nation of Israel had fallen in love with David! This irony was not lost on Saul, and the people singing “Saul has slain his thousands, and David his ten thousands” only fed his resentment toward David.

David’s political popularity created deep hatred within the heart of Saul, and he was now determined to murder David. The text indicates that David’s music had refreshed Saul previously on numerous occasions; it says that whenever the distressing spirit would come upon Saul, he would call for David to come and play, and only then would the spirit depart. Saul’s physical deliverance is emphasized clearly in the Hebrew language: the music made him well.

First Samuel contains remarkable instances of the coming of the Holy Spirit upon the prophets, as well as upon Saul and his servants. In 10:6 the Holy Spirit comes upon Saul, who prophesies and is “turned into another man,” that is, equipped by the Spirit to fulfill God’s calling.

It is not only in the broad sweeps of history that God’s hand is obvious. The following lessons are also evident in First Samuel. God steps into the pain and misery of Hannah to give her, not only a son, but three sons and two daughters (2:21). Though men look on the outward appearance, God looks on the heart (16:7). 

Obedience is better than sacrifice (15:22, 23), indicating that God is concerned about men’s hearts as well as their actions. God does not spare even those in high position when they have sinned, but He is still a God of patience and forgiveness.

The tragic end of Saul illustrates the ultimate result of earthly kingdoms. The only hope is a kingdom of God on Earth, whose ruler is God Himself. In David, the earthly lineage of God’s King begins. In Christ, God comes as King and will come again as King of Kings. 

The similarities between Jesus and the boy Samuel are striking. Both were children of promise. Both were dedicated to God before birth. Both were the bridges of transition from one stage of the nation’s history to another. Samuel combined the offices of prophet and priest; Christ is Prophet, Priest, and King.

The phenomenon of the Spirit inspiring worship occurs in chapter 10 and 19:20. This was not the emotionalized raving of the pagans, but true, Spirit-inspired worship and praise to God, not unlike what happened on the Day of Pentecost (Acts 2).

On a side note, the musical abilities of man made in the image of God, coupled with the Bible’s teaching that God sings (Zephaniah 3:17), remind us of the possibility that God did not create music but rather that music is a part of His very being. Man’s expression in music could be a part of the image of God placed within him. This author believes that music is a part of God’s essence and that He has evidenced this aspect of His being in the universe.

Music that contains elements consistent with the fruits of the Spirit such as goodness, gentleness, and self-control (Gal. 5:22–23) can communicate those concepts to the listener. Music is ultimately a spiritual issue. 1 Samuel 16:14–23 communicates that good music has power to relieve spiritual and physical suffering. The text states that, when David would play his lyre, the spirit would depart from Saul. David’s music, therefore, was responsible for Saul’s relief.

The current debate within Christianity concerning music certainly invites further study and writing among theologians. The implications of such a study would yield valuable information for the application of music both in the church and in the individual Christian life.

Our anointing is displayed in the gifts God has given us. Others might notice them before we realize them ourselves. They will be pleasing and helpful to someone. Just like David played the harp for Saul, our gifts are a help to someone.

BITS & PIECES OF DAVID’S MUSICAL THERAPY, I SAMUEL 16:14-23

THE PARABLE OF THE TARES & OF THE DRAGNET

What is the main point of Matthew chapter 13?

First, Jesus describes the different responses a person can have toward knowledge of the kingdom of heaven and their consequences. The Lord then told a parable about a farmer whose field had been sown with both wheat and weeds.

Matthew 13:24–30 MSG PARABLE OF TARES (WEEDS): The central message of this parable is that the consummated kingdom of God will be different from the present kingdom (reign) in that the consummated kingdom will be in a perfected environment of only sons of the kingdom. Currently, sons of the kingdom and sons of the Evil One live together in human society.

This means that on Earth, good and bad people will grow and live together. The Kingdom of God will be present amongst the evil of the world. At the end of time people will be separated into their eternal destiny.

24-26 He told another story. “God’s kingdom is like a farmer who planted good seed in his field. That night, while his hired men were asleep, his enemy sowed thistles all through the wheat and slipped away before dawn. When the first green shoots appeared and the grain began to form, the thistles showed up, too.

27 “The farmhands came to the farmer and said, ‘Master, that was clean seed you planted, wasn’t it? Where did these thistles come from?’

28 “He answered, ‘Some enemy did this.’

“The farmhands asked, ‘Should we weed out the thistles?’

29-30 “He said, ‘No, if you weed the thistles, you’ll pull up the wheat, too. Let them grow together until harvest time. Then I’ll instruct the harvesters to pull up the thistles and tie them in bundles for the fire, then gather the wheat and put it in the barn.’”

13:25 Tares were very common in Palestine and closely resemble wheat; they are not really distinguishable from wheat until the grain appears at harvest time.

13:30 The question of separation or relative purity in conduct or doctrine among the disciples and the church is answered by Jesus’ directive. This is not to be done by the disciples nor by the church—but will ultimately be done by God’s angels (vv. 39, 41). Premature separation in the present age is out of the question and becomes more destructive than it is purifying.

Matthew 13:47-50 MSG - PARABLE OF THE DRAGNET: “Or, God’s kingdom is like a fishnet cast into the sea, catching all kinds of fish. When it is full, it is hauled onto the beach. The good fish are picked out and put in a tub; those unfit to eat are thrown away. That’s how it will be when the curtain comes down on history. The angels will come and cull the bad fish and throw them in the garbage. There will be a lot of desperate complaining, but it won’t do any good.”

The parable of the dragnet, like the parable of the tares (vv. 24–30), deals with saints (the good) and sinners (the bad) in a mixed society. Its uniqueness is that it alludes to the church’s responsibility to cast the gospel message before all of society, realizing it will attract all types of people, some of whom will be found unredeemed by the angels at the end of the age.

What are the two meanings of the parable of the three servants?

The first two servants are able to see God in a positive perception, as understanding, generous, and kind, while the third servant sees God as harsh, demanding, and critical. Finley suggests these interpretations among the teachings for Christians: The nobleman (Lk 19:12), or the man (Matthew 25:14) is Christ.

Who are the tares in Matthew 13?

In Matthew 13, Jesus taught the parable of the wheat and the tares. Tares are weeds that resemble wheat. In the parable, a wheat field had deliberately been polluted by an enemy who sowed the seeds of the weeds intermixed with the wheat. Only after the plants were partly grown did the problem become apparent.

What does it mean to separate the wheat from the tares?

The tares bound and burned are the evil ones separated out and cast into fire (punishment) at the Judgment. The wheat gathered into the barn represents the righteous who are separated out and made to “shine forth” in the kingdom of the Father.

What do the parables in Matthew 13 mean?

The man represents God and the seed is His message. Just as a planted seed starts to grow, the word of God starts to deepen and grow within a person. Some seed fell on the path and the birds ate it. The birds represent Satan. The seed on the path represents people who hear the message, but it is immediately lost.

What is the main message of the parable?

The Parable of the Wheat & Weeds teaches us that God does have a plan for this world and He is working to accomplish it. However, it is unfolding over time and that means there's some waiting to do, something we find difficult. Jesus is teaching us patience – the patience of a God who chooses to delay His judgment. 

The central message of this parable is to be ready for Christ's return. Jesus said that no one knows the day or the hour when the end will come, only the Father in Heaven knows. Jesus is instructing His disciples to be vigilant in their walk with the Lord and be ready at all times for Christ's second coming.

Prayer: Merciful God, you plant each of us like seeds in the same field and together we are nourished and nurtured by the sun. We sway in the wind and are refreshed by the rain. We are blessed by the knowledge that you want us to grow towards what you call us to be.

When we deprive others of that same opportunity, forgive us. When we want to uproot those whom we believe do not belong in our part of the field, forgive us. When we label others as good or bad rather than accept them for who they are, forgive us. When we are reluctant to acknowledge that we ourselves are a mixture of weeds and wheat, forgive us. When we are afraid to look into the fields of our own lives to see what is growing there, forgive us.

O God, you know us inside and out, through and through. You search us out and lay your hand upon us. You know what we are going to say even before we speak. So we pray that you will help us to reach out to the uprooted and rejected, the lonely and the outcast, and to develop and grow the good in ourselves, in others, and in the world. This we pray in Jesus’s name. Amen.

The Three Heavens of the Bible

MEANING OF THE WORD “HEAVEN”: The Greek word from which heaven comes has the root meaning: “solid crystal” or “spatial expansion.” The origin of this word has to do with Water. r (Colin Brown: The New International Dictionary of New Testament Theology; Volume 2: pages 188-1969

Colossians 1:16 For by Him the all things were created in the heavens (plural). Throughout the Word of God there are BASICALLY THREE HEAVENS or at least three heavens.

After the Angelic Conflict God cast all the fallen angels (those who chose to go with Satan) into the Deep (depths of the expanse of water) then God froze that water. Then as the Holy Spirit moved over the deep (Genesis 1:2) water covered the earth and way out there was yet another “heavenly ocean” (Brown, page 189) The vastness between these two great waters was called “HEAVEN” like a hollow sphere. 

Look at Genesis 1:8  God called the expanse heaven. NASV in the margin firmament. The Hebrew word means an expanse, firmament, an extended surface. A vault that lies between that area of water around the earth and that heavenly ocean way out in space and the area, the vacuum. This word also comes from the root of ‘boundary” (The Complete Biblical Library Volume 4, page 414) or the boundary above, referring to these waters serving as a boundary above the earth – *yet below the heavenly ocean or the outer circle of water around all this space – this vacuum is called HEAVEN. 

Lexicon definitions: The Complete Word Study Dictionary New Testament: heaven, sky, air. In the New Testament in a physical sense it means the over-arching, all embracing heaven beneath which is the earth and all that is therein. It is also used for that heaven where the residence of God is, called by the Psalmist “THE HOLY HEAVENS” A Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament (Arndt and Gingrich) where they take some 4 full columns to discuss this word. [simply: heaven.] This is what is found in several of the Greek Lexicon..; the word heaven followed by pages discussing various aspects of heaven.

Old Testament Lexicons generally also start with a simple word “heaven” or “sky” and then also move on to various discussions concerning the word.

THE PLURAL HEAVENS

You will note in Colossians 1:16 For by Him the all things were created in the heavens (plural.) Throughout the Word of God there are basically three heavens or at least three heavens.

First Heaven is that portion of the sky immediately around the earth. That part we see just above the earth—clouds in First Heaven and this is the abode of birds of the air.

Second Heaven is what we see on a clear night, when we look way up into the vastness of the stars and celestial creations; This is the area of outer space like the galaxies. The far off space of the stars, many of course can be seen with the naked eye, but also multitudes require high powered telescopes to see. 

The first Biblical reference is found in Genesis 1:14 Then God said let there be lights or luminaries in the expanse of the heavens (and one of these is the sun, others are planets, comets; Comets are luminous in contrast to satellites which are reflectors.)

There are no comets in our heaven (galaxy) but they exist in other galaxies But we do have meteors in our galaxy. Meteors enter our atmosphere at great velocity and it has been estimated that there are some 75 million meteors entering the earths atmosphere daily. 

Chinese scientists tell us that an Asteroid is headed in the direction of earth with the force of 3 billion bombs, so if you do not have enough to worry about, here is something to add to your list; or…you can just TRUST God that He has a plan for this earth for at least 1000 and seven years.

As we read on in Genesis 1:14-18 and then God tells us one of their functions

14 to separate the day from the night and let them be signs and for seasons and for days and years.

15 And let them be for lights in the expanse (heaven) of the heavens to give light on the earth and it was so

16 God made the two great lights, the greater light to govern the day, and the lesser light to govern the night; He made the stars also.

17 God placed them in the expanse of the heavens to give light on the earth,

18 and to govern the day and the night, and to separate the light from the darkness; and God saw that it was good.

So the purpose for the solar system in the Second Heaven is given. We have five given functions.

1 To divide the day from the night –purpose of the sun.

2 For the discerning of times

3 For seasons—divisions of the year; winter, the season of dormancy, Spring the season of sowing and germination of seed. Summer the season of growth and maturity and Autumn the season of harvest.

4 For days and years, the rotation of the earth was the solar standard for determining time until 1940—called solar time but after 1940 we use a much more accurate measure called atomic time.

5 To give light to the earth

To give you some idea of just how vast this Second Heaven is, and all that it involves, let us look at how Astronomy measures the universe because we can go to billions of miles within our own solar system. The system for this measuring is in reference to how fast light travels. Light travels 186,000 miles per second; if you multiply that by 60, you can tell how many miles light travels in a minute: 11,160,000 mpm. You carry this out to a year and from this we have what astrologers call “light years”. One light year equals about 6 Trillion miles.

And beyond our system lies still more galaxies. With the naked eye we can observe 100,000 light years away, so to really think of just how big the Second Heaven is you have to think in terms of galactic clusters.

As we read on in Genesis 1:14-18 and then God tells us one of their functions:  14 to separate the day from the night and let them be signs and for seasons and for days and years. 15 And let them be for lights in the expanse (heaven) of the heavens to give light on the earth and it was so 16 God made the two great lights, the greater light to govern the day, and the lesser light to govern the night; He made the stars also. 17 God placed them in the expanse of the heavens to give light on the earth, 18 and to govern the day and the night, and to separate the light from the darkness; and God saw that it was good.

Virgo, for example, is a cluster of several thousand galaxies, not just a star but a cluster of galaxies, and it is 50,000,000 light years away.  The Milky Way, for example, is simply a series of galaxies. The Big Dipper, well when you look at the big dipper with your girlfriend you are looking 650,000,000 light years away. Another very important reason for the design of the Second Heaven was for the purpose of special signs and wonders and miracles, some of the great events of history. 

Such events as the “SIGNS AND WONDERS” associated with Joshua’s Long Day, the Exodus, the Cross and, of course, the heavenly signs at the Second coming of JESUS CHRIST. There are no such signs for the Rapture of the Church. Now, remember there is yet a Third Heaven beyond the second.

The Third Heaven we cannot see – it is way out there as the abode of God. Where the Throne of God is; the garden of stones… This is where JESUS CHRIST is sitting right now at the right hand of God.

Now all this about the Second Heaven may not be all that important to you right now, but if you, as a believer in JESUS CHRIST die before the Rapture I want to give you some idea of how far your soul will travel to be with the Lord. Also what is going on in the Second Heaven is not all that important to us right now in the Church Age, but it will become significant in eschatology; that is... during and at the end of the Tribulation and the return of JESUS CHRIST to the earth. Much of this celestial activity is covered in the book of Revelation.

1. The Third Heaven is the dwelling of God. Now, of course, God is omnipresent, but there is a place where He reveals Himself in the Second Person of the Godhead, JESUS CHRIST. This is a real place with a real location in the Third  Heaven.

2. This is where the throne of God is located. Psalm 11: 4 The LORD is in His holy temple; the LORD’S throne is in heaven; His eyes behold, His eyelids test the sons of men. God, even JESUS CHRIST can look down from the Third Heaven and view everything going on, on the earth. Psalm 103: 19 The LORD has established His throne in the heavens, And His sovereignty rules over all. (He rules over all the angelic authorities in the Second Heaven and on earth.)

3. This is also called the DWELLING PLACE OF GOD 2 Chronicles 6:21 “Listen to the supplications of Your servant and of Your people Israel when they pray toward this place; hear from Your dwelling place, from heaven; hear and forgive. 

4. The Third Heaven is the dwelling place of the Third Member of the Godhead, God the Holy Spirit, Matthew 3:16, and the Holy Spirit is called the heavenly gift, Hebrews 6:4.

5. This is also called the Kingdom of Heaven, Matthew 4:17.

6. JESUS CHRIST in his Resurrected Body ascended through the first and Second Heaven and at this very moment is seated at the right hand of God in the Third Heaven. So the Resurrected Body of JESUS CHRIST is there, which reveals that this is a real literal place.

7. The Third Heaven is extremely important to the believer in the Church Age living in the period called the mystery.

(1) First this is the place of your Second birth. John 3:3 speaks of being born from above This is very important in the thinking of every believer. In your first birth, you were born here on earth, cosmos, but in your second birth you are from above, that is the Third Heaven.

(2) And your citizenship is in the Third Heaven. Philippians 3:20 For our citizenship is in heaven, from which also we eagerly wait for a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ; It is amazing how many Christians get so caught up in this world, when we are not from this world. We are ambassadors for Christ here on earth, our citizenship is in the Third heaven.

And we do not look for great blessings from this world but from the Third heaven at the coming of JESUS CHRIST. One day JESUS CHRIST will rise up in His Resurrected Body from the throne in the Third Heaven and travel through all the Second Heaven and as He approaches earth, a trumpet will sound and every believer will rise up and meet Him in the air. Until the coming of the Lord, will not precede those who have fallen asleep.

1 Thessalonians 4:15-18

15 For this we say to you by the word of the Lord, that we who are alive and remain 16 For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. 17 Then we who are alive and remain will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we shall always be with the Lord. 18 Therefore comfort one another with these words.

So at the Rapture we will meet the Lord in the First Heaven, in the clouds.

(3) The Third Heaven is the location of the source of all Divine blessing, the abode of God is the sphere of all our blessings. Colossians 1:5 and Ephesians 1: 3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ, John 3:27 John answered and said, “A man can receive nothing unless it has been given him from heaven. Ephesians 1: 3 3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ, John 3:27 John answered and said, “A man can receive nothing unless it has been given him from heaven. 

(4) In Colossians 1:5 we saw the hope laid up for you in heaven.

(5) Our inheritance is stored in the Third heaven for us, 1 Peter 1:4 to obtain an inheritance which is imperishable and undefiled and will not fade away, reserved in heaven for you,

(6) In the Angelic Conflict the Third heaven is very important for it is here that the victory of JESUS CHRIST will take place. Ephesians 1: 20 which He brought about in Christ, when He raised Him from the dead and seated Him at His right hand in the heavenly places,

(7) This is the place of your Eternal Security, that you are saved forever in JESUS CHRIST. Ephesians 2:6 and raised us up with Him, (at the point of Faith in JESUS CHRIST as Savior) and seated us with Him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus.

~Bits&PiecesofSpringvalleybiblechurch.org 

GOD'S GIFTS TO US

What is the greatest gift that God has given to the world? So, instead of abandoning us or retaliating against us, he offers us a gift, the best gift that has ever been given: his Son, crucified and raised to life again. And he promises he will reign over us in an eternal kingdom that is far better than any of us could ever ask for or imagine.

When did we receive the Holy Spirit? In the book of the Acts of the Apostles the arrival of the Holy Spirit happens fifty days after the resurrection of the Christ, and is celebrated in Christendom with the feast of Pentecost.

Why is the Holy Spirit a gift to believers? Jesus gave us the greatest gift that any Christian could imagine. The Holy Spirit, the counselor, the Spirit of God himself; the spirit of truth would come to guide the disciples and to guide all Christians.

Why is the Holy Spirit called a gift? As a gift, the Holy Spirit is not deserved or earned. He is not given as a reward, perhaps for being good and faithful, or for achieving or attaining a high degree of holiness, but rather to empower or enable attainment of these. However, the Holy Spirit, being a gift, means that He has to be accepted to be owned.

What is the Holy Spirit's greatest gift to us? Through the Holy Ghost we may know that God lives, that Jesus is the Christ, and that His Church has been restored to the earth. We may have the promptings of the Holy Ghost to show us all the things we should do (see 2 Nephi 32:5).

How do you receive the Holy Spirit? The path to receiving the Holy Ghost is to exercise faith in Christ unto repentance. We can become clean through qualifying for the effects of the Savior's Atonement. The covenants offered in baptism by authorized servants of God bring that cleansing.

How do I receive the Holy Spirit into my life? Ask for God's forgiveness for your sins. 1 John 1:8 says, "If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us." If you want to feel God's presence—the Holy Spirit—in your life, you'll have to admit those sins to God, ask for His forgiveness, and repent, or commit to doing better in the future.

What happens when the Holy Spirit comes upon you? Acts 1:8 says, “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you. And you will be my witnesses, telling people about me everywhere—in Jerusalem, throughout Judea, in Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” This power that comes from the Holy Spirit allows you to stand strong for the things of God.

What is the Holy Spirit in simple terms? Definition of Holy Spirit is the presence of God as part of a person's religious experience: I felt the Holy Spirit in the room with me, leading and guiding me in prayer. Christianity. Also called Holy Ghost, the third person of the Trinity: I baptize you in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.

What is the gift of the Holy Spirit? The seven gifts of the Holy Spirit are wisdom, understanding, counsel, fortitude, knowledge, piety, and fear of the Lord. 

What are the 12 fruits of the Holy Spirit? The fruits of the Spirit are perfections that the Holy Spirit forms in us as the first fruits of eternal glory. The tradition of the Church lists twelve of them: “charity, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, generosity, gentleness, faithfulness, modesty, self-control, chastity.”

What are the 9 gifts of the Holy Spirit and their meanings? These abilities, often termed "charismatic gifts", are the word of knowledge, increased faith, the gifts of healing, the gift of miracles, prophecy, the discernment of spirits, diverse kinds of tongues, interpretation of tongues.

How are the gifts of the Holy Spirit used? The gift of the Holy Spirit, counsel, helps us to change things to the way they should be. Counsel helps us to make good judgements and giving good advice. It helps us to change things from bad to good. This gift of the Holy Spirit helps us to lead others in doing what is right and good. 

What is an example of the Holy Spirit helping you in your life? He gives us power, love, and self-discipline. Power can be many things backed up by the Holy Spirit, such as boldness to preach the gospel and power to perform healing miracles. Love given by the Holy Spirit is obvious when we have the heart to love others the way Jesus would.

How do the gifts of the Holy Spirit effect our lives? It helps us to change things from bad to good. This gift of the Holy Spirit helps us to lead others in doing what is right and good. The gift of the Holy Spirit, wisdom, can help us know what is important and what needs to be done. For example, not judging someone by something you "think" but you are not sure about.

How can you recognize the Spirit's action in your life? "The only way you can recognize Spirit is by showing up and being present. Moment to moment, our attitude determines our altitude, and self-inventory of your consciousness helps too. If you are present, loving, and at peace, it is your spirit.

How can I make the best use of what God has given me? Discover Your God-given Gifts:

Prayer: Matthew 7:7 tells us to ask, seek and knock. We can pray about and seek out our talents. 

Asking Others: Asking others can also give us an idea about our talents. 

Pay Attention to What You Enjoy: What activities do you enjoy?

Practice: Talents do not develop overnight.

Do we need to thank God for all the gifts that we have received from him? We do, however, thank God for everything wholesome and godly. God is the author of every good gift we experience in life and we thank him for these gifts. The Bible says, "give thanks in all circumstances ... " (1 Thessalonians 5:16). God's Word also teaches us to "rejoice in the Lord always ... " (Philippians 4:4).

What happens if you don't use your spiritual gifts? It is possible to be sinfully careless or indifferent and not use the gifts God has given us. The gift (ability) may still be present, but lack of use may hinder its development, as well as its usefulness and productivity.

What you are is God's gift to you, what you make of yourself with God's grace is your gift to God! “What you are is God's gift to you, what you become is your gift to God.” “It is to the Cross that the Christian is challenged to follow his Master: no path of redemption can make a detour around it.”

Cherish Our Blessings And Spiritual Gifts

Brief

This is one of the strongest theological verses in the Bible to support the belief that Salvation is irrevocable. In the book of Hebrews this idea is further elaborated on, but Paul puts it plain and clear – it is irrevocable. Yet traditionally, perhaps due to how simple and straightforward it is, this verse has always caused misunderstandings. In Romans 11, Paul ends off his long theological lecture on various core theology with the ideas of the elect and the nature of grace. To expound on his teaching of the greatness of the Lord’s grace, he emphasizes that the gift, which is Salvation, that the Lord has given us is irrevocable – that can only come from grace, a grace that is completely divine and supernatural. The context is clear – he was talking about Israel, and he was referring to their salvation, via the new covenant as described by Jeremiah in Jer 31:31 – Behold, the days are coming, declares the Lord, when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel and the house of Judah – a covenant that was unconditional. Without taking away any significance of this verse to the Israelites, let us attempt to apply this verse to our modern Christian lives. In this study, we will address the issues people often have with this verse and ponder on the word ‘irrevocable’.

Analysis

God’s gifts – this is always potentially misleading, no? I’m going to first argue that the gifts here refer not to natural gifts, like blessings and favors in terms of health, work, relationships, opportunities, families etc. Job, in the midst of his adversity, declared that the Lord gives and the Lord takes away [Job 1:21], and indeed, we owe God nothing. He is the originator of these gifts, and he has full sovereign over when and what to give, and when and what to take away. Neither does it refer to what we loosely term spiritual gifts – talents, as referred to skills that aid us in our ministry services in the Kingdom of God, for example teaching, serving, encouraging, leading etc. This is very important – the parable of the talents in Matthew 25 clearly tells us that the Lord is sovereign over us in this matter, and if we do not use our gifts wisely, he can and will take it back.

What then, does it refer to?

Salvation 

The gift of salvation, the gift of God’s grace and favor freely given to us, concerning the eternal welfare of our souls. You may disagree, and many will disagree, but amongst all the gifts that God grants humanity, this is perhaps the greatest of all, and perhaps the only one that merits the adjective ‘irrevocable’.

Rom 11:29 AMP For God’s gifts and His call are irrevocable. [He never withdraws them when once they are given, and He does not change His mind about those to whom He gives His grace or to whom He sends His call.] 

Are Irrevocable

There are many verses that complements this idea – I the Lord do not change [Mal 3:6]; God does not change like shifting shadows [James 1:17]; God is not a man, that He should lie, nor a son of man, that He should change His mind [Num 23:19]; But you remain the same [Ps 102:27]. Yet, there are also verses that seem to contradict it – The LORD regretted that he had made human beings on the earth [Gen 6:6]; I regret that I have made Saul king [1 Sam 15:11]; So he turned and became their enemy and he himself fought against them [Isa 63:10].

And His Call

What then, is his call? Probably not like how the Lord called Samuel, not literally. Probably not what many pastors and missionaries today term as their ‘calling’ – in which they have been prompted by the Spirit to commit to the Lord’s work. No, this probably reflects to something far simpler, far more personal and intimate – the internal call that God reserves for everyone of us, in which he calls us to know him, to worship him, to love him, to enjoy him. Again, many may disagree, but this forms a close connection with the gift of salvation.

Conflicts seem to happen when we fail to understand what the gifts and the call in this verse refers to. God himself, does not, and cannot change. His regret of making human beings is well-known, yet his regret stems from the deviation of humanity from his original plans for us. God has not changed. It’s just that humanity has swayed away from him, and for that God grieves. Likewise Saul – God’s regret is perhaps better understood as his grief at the road that Saul has chosen, by his own free will, to walk upon.

Blessings are not irrevocable 

Your blessing of wealth today does not mean you will not one day be declared bankrupt. Spiritual gifts are not irrevocable – your ability to sing, or to encourage, or to teach, or to have compassion on others may all one day dwindle and fade away. The temporal nature of blessings and of gifts do not mean that our God is inconsistent – no, it simply means that we need to cherish our blessings and spiritual gifts while we have them, and to hope in the Lord when we have them not. Does God return gifts? No. Once God gives a gift of the Holy Spirit, God doesn't take it away. The receiver may lose a gift or gifts of the Holy Spirit mainly due to one's failure to put the gifts to good use or not putting the gifts into practice daily. 

Yet, the gift of Salvation is irrevocable

You may have heard of people who were life-long, strong and committed Christians, who meet a crisis of faith and leave the church and their walk with God for a while. Perhaps they may one day return to the walk with God, but what if they die while they are away? Does that mean they perish? I would like to think that once a person confess with their mouths and truly admit in their hearts that Jesus is Lord, then they will be saved [Rom 10:10]. Even if they only do it once in their lifetimes, even if later on they doubted and questioned and indulged in sin and revelry. This is but just a school of thought, and there will be differing ones, but this is one of the core doctrines, simply because of its implications.

Conclusion

We do not need to worry about our salvation. We don’t do good to ensure we keep our salvation. We don’t need to pretend our doubts in our hearts do not exist for fear of losing our salvation – and we can take the time and the resources that we require to deal with these doubts – it may take a lifetime and more to do so. Instead, we do what is good in the eyes of the Lord because we rejoice in our Lord. God’s gift and call are irrevocable. If you truly believe, you will be saved. This is a cold hard rule. There are no exceptions. Just like how Israel will be saved, that’s a promise, and that’s irrevocable. ~Reversingverses.com

Sharing ~The Quickened Word-How God Speaks Blog~

2 Corinthians 13:1 This is the third time I am coming to you. In the mouth of two or three witnesses shall every word be established. 

Most often, “buzz” words are repeated to your hearing ears in many places and experiences.  That is a first indicator God is speaking to you and getting your attention about that subject. 

Another indicator of identifying quickened “buzz” words is like reading an entire paragraph then perhaps 2 words jump out at you.  They are highlighted in your spirit as significant.  They pop out and you know they are key words for important concepts.

Hearing His quickened buzz Words is like experiencing a magnet inside of us that instinctively draws us to connect with His Words that He is speaking into the earth.  It is as though He has a giant beacon tower in the earth where He sends out pulses of buzz words, and His Spirit inside of us is drawn to them and makes the connection. 

Another way of expressing this is like hearing a parable or a riddle and even though you don't know the meaning of the parable, there are a couple of words that pop out at you and you know they are keys to opening up the meaning to the rest.  You are drawn to those words and you see them as clues to a pathway towards understanding.  The more clues you see, the more you realize they are signposts that point the way and help identify “YOU ARE HERE.”

I learned this years ago and it is still one of my favorite ways to hear Him.  It is called being led by His Spirit and walking in His Spirit.  He promised me that even in times of famine, I would always be able to hear Him this way, and that has proven true. Our spirit bears witness with His Spirit and we know the Spirit of truth.  He teaches us by bringing into remembrance the signposts of His Words through these quickened buzz words. 

Rom 8:14-15 For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God.

Luke 10:23-24 Then He turned to His disciples and said privately, “Blessed are the eyes which see the things you see;  for I tell you that many prophets and kings have desired to see what you see, and have not seen it, and to hear what you hear, and have not heard it.”

John 15:26-27 NKJV  “But when the Helper comes, whom I shall send to you from the Father, the Spirit of truth who proceeds from the Father, He will testify of Me.  And you also will bear witness, because you have been with Me from the beginning. 

John 14:26  NKJV  But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all things that I said to you.

Often these same buzz words are repeated elsewhere in your life in different ways.  God uses them as confirmations where everything He speaks is confirmed by 2-3 witnesses. 

2 Corinthians 13:1 This is the third time I am coming to you. In the mouth of two or three witnesses shall every word be established. 

~The Quickened Word.com 

The Book of Ephesians 5

WAKE UP FROM YOUR SLEEP 

Ephesians 5:1-2 Watch what God does, and then you do it, like children who learn proper behavior from their parents. Mostly what God does is love you. Keep company with him and learn a life of love. Observe how Christ loved us. His love was not cautious but extravagant. He didn’t love in order to get something from us but to give everything of himself to us. Love like that.

Growing in Godliness means learning to live a life that honors God and follows the example of Christ. Live in such a way hat our life will be a fragrant offering, pleasing the Lord. Live in Christ's love.

Paul contrasts the conduct of believers and unbelievers, especially in areas of sexual morality. The contrasts are appropriately described in terms of light and darkness.

5:3-4 Don’t allow love to turn into lust, setting off a downhill slide into sexual promiscuity, filthy practices, or bullying greed. Though some tongues just love the taste of gossip, those who follow Jesus have better uses for language than that. Don’t talk dirty or silly. That kind of talk doesn’t fit our style. Thanksgiving is our dialect.

5:5 You can be sure that using people or religion or things just for what you can get out of them—the usual variations on idolatry—will get you nowhere, and certainly nowhere near the kingdom of Christ, the kingdom of God.

5:6-7 Don’t let yourselves get taken in by religious smooth talk. God gets furious with people who are full of religious sales talk but want nothing to do with him. Don’t even hang around people like that.

5:8-10 You groped your way through that murk once, but no longer. You’re out in the open now. The bright light of Christ makes your way plain. So no more stumbling around. Get on with it! The good, the right, the true—these are the actions appropriate for daylight hours. Figure out what will please Christ, and then do it.

Fornication encompasses all acts of sexual immorality; covetousness identifies the insatiability of human carnality—never able to “get enough.” 

5:11-16 Don’t waste your time on useless work, mere busywork, the barren pursuits of darkness. Expose these things for the sham they are. It’s a scandal when people waste their lives on things they must do in the darkness where no one will see. Rip the cover off those frauds and see how attractive they look in the light of Christ.

Wake up from your sleep,

Climb out of your coffins;

Christ will show you the light!

So watch your step. Use your head. Make the most of every chance you get. These are desperate times! Seek to understand God's will for your life. Be careful to live wisely, making the most of the time and opportunities you have.

5:17 Don’t live carelessly, unthinkingly. Make sure you understand what the Master wants.

5:18-20 Don’t drink too much wine. That cheapens your life. Drink the Spirit of God, huge drafts of him. Sing hymns instead of drinking songs! Sing songs from your heart to Christ. Sing praises over everything, any excuse for a song to God the Father in the name of our Master, Jesus Christ.

(5:15–20) Contrasts believers and unbelievers, with an emphasis on the difference between wise and foolish living. Wise living is the result of being filled with the Spirit.

Relationships

5:21 Out of respect for Christ, be courteously reverent to one another.

5:22-24 Wives, understand and support your husbands in ways that show your support for Christ. The husband provides leadership to his wife the way Christ does to his church, not by domineering but by cherishing. So just as the church submits to Christ as he exercises such leadership, wives should likewise submit to their husbands.

5:29-33 No one abuses his own body, does he? No, he feeds and pampers it. That’s how Christ treats us, the church, since we are part of his body. And this is why a man leaves father and mother and cherishes his wife. No longer two, they become “one flesh.” This is a huge mystery, and I don’t pretend to understand it all. What is clearest to me is the way Christ treats the church. And this provides a good picture of how each husband is to treat his wife, loving himself in loving her, and how each wife is to honor her husband.

(5:24–33) These verses put such demands upon the Christian husband that it is impossible to see how a charge of male chauvinism could justly be made against the Bible, or how a license to exploit women or wives could ever be claimed from such texts. ~Bits and Pieces of Ephesians 5 Study with the NSFLB

THE BOOK OF ESTHER

Purpose of Writing: The purpose of the Book of Esther is to display the providence of God, especially in regard to His chosen people, Israel. The Book of Esther records the institution of the Feast of Purim and the obligation of its perpetual observation. The Book of Esther was read at the Feast of Purim to commemorate the great deliverance of the Jewish nation brought about by God through Esther. Jews today still read Esther during Purim.

Key Verses: Esther 2:15 - Now when the time came for Esther to go to the king, she asked for nothing other than what Hegai, the king’s eunuch who was in charge of the harem, suggested.

Esther 4:14 - For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance will arise from another place, but you and your father’s family will perish. And who knows but that you have come to the royal position for such a time as this.

Esther 6:13 - Since Mordecai, before whom your downfall has begun, is of Jewish origin, you cannot stand against him - you will surely come to ruin!

Esther 7:3 - If I have found favor with you, O king, and if it pleases your majesty, grant me my life - this is my petition, and the life of my people - this is my request.

Brief Summary: The Book of Esther can be divided into three main sections. Chapters 1:1-2:18 – Esther replaces Vashti; 2:19-7:10 – Mordecai overcomes Haman; 8:1-10:3 – Israel survives Haman’s attempt to destroy them. The noble Esther risked her own death as she realized what was at stake. She willingly did what could have been a deadly maneuver and took on the second-in-command of her husband‘s kingdom, Haman. She proved a wise and most worthy opponent, all the while remaining humble and respectful of the position of her husband-king.

Esther’s story is much like the story of Joseph in Genesis 41. Both stories involve foreign monarchs who control the destiny of the Jews. Both accounts show the heroism of Israelite individuals who provide the means for the salvation of their people and nation. The hand of God is evident, in that what appears to be a bad situation is indeed very much under the control of the Almighty God, who ultimately has the good of the people at heart. At the center of this story is the ongoing division between the Jews and the Amalekites, which was recorded to have begun in the Book of Exodus. Haman’s goal is the final effort recorded in the Old Testament period of the complete eradication of the Jews. His plans eventually end up with his own demise, and the elevation of his enemy Mordecai to his own position, as well as the salvation of the Jews.

Feasting is a major theme of this book: there are seven recorded banquets (Esther 1:3, 9; 2:18; 5:4–5; 7:1–2; 8:17; and 9:17–22), and many of the events were planned, plotted, or exposed at these banquets. Although the name of God is never mentioned in this book, it is apparent that the Jews of Susa sought His intervention when they fasted for three days (Esther 4:16). In spite of the fact that the law allowing their destruction was written according to the laws of the Medes and Persians, rendering it unchangeable, the way was cleared for their prayers to be answered. Esther risked her life by going not once uninvited before the king but twice, (Esther 5:1–2; 8:3). She was not content with the destruction of Haman; she was intent on saving her people. The institution of the Feast of Purim is written and preserved for all to see and is still observed today. God’s chosen people, without any direct mention of His name, were granted a stay of execution through the wisdom and humility of Esther.

Foreshadowings: In Esther, we are given a behind-the-scenes look at the ongoing struggle of Satan against the purposes of God and especially against His promised Messiah. The entrance of Christ into the human race was predicated upon the existence of the Jewish race. Just as Haman plotted against the Jews in order to destroy them, so has Satan set himself against Christ and God’s people. Just as Haman is defeated on the gallows he built for Mordecai, so does Christ use the very weapon that his enemy devised to destroy Him and His spiritual seed. For the cross, by which Satan planned to destroy the Messiah, was the very means through which Christ “having canceled the written code, with its regulations, that was against us and that stood opposed to us; he took it away, nailing it to the cross. And having disarmed the powers and authorities, he made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them by the cross” (Colossians 2:14-15). Just as Haman was hanged on the gallows he built for Mordecai, so the devil was crushed by the cross he erected to destroy Christ.

Practical Application: The Book of Esther shows the choice we make between seeing the hand of God in our circumstances in life and seeing things as merely coincidence. God is the sovereign Ruler of the universe and we can be assured that His plans will not be moved by the actions of mere evil men. Although His name is not mentioned in the book, His providential care for His people, both individuals and the nation, is evident throughout. For instance, we cannot fail to see the Almighty exerting influence over King Xerxes’ timely insomnia. Through the example of Mordecai and Esther, the silent love language our Father often uses to communicate directly to our spirits is shown in this book.

Esther proved to have a godly and teachable spirit that also showed great strength and willing obedience. Esther’s humility was markedly different from the attitude of those around her, and this caused her to be elevated into the position of queen. She shows us that remaining respectful and humble, even in difficult if not humanly impossible circumstances, often sets us up to be the vessel of untold blessing for both ourselves and others. We would do well to emulate her godly attitudes in all areas of life, but especially in trials. Not once is there a complaint or bad attitude exposed in the writing. Many times we read she won the "favor" of those around her. Such favor is what ultimately saved her people. We can be granted such favor as we accept even unfair persecution and follow Esther’s example of maintaining a positive attitude, coupled with humility and the determination to lean on God. Who knows but that God put us in such a position, for just such a time as this?  ~Got Questions? 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the book of Esther and the wonderful way that You used her and Mordecai to prevent the annihilation of the Jewish nation during the time of the Persian empire. I rejoice to see how their faith and hope in You was rekindled, and that despite their many failings, You used them to forward Your redemptive plan. I pray that I would not allow the things of this world to undermine my faith in You and my hope in the soon return of the Lord Jesus. Help me to walk in spirit and truth and use me I pray in the unfolding of Your wonderful plan of redemption, for the glory of Your holy name, AMEN.  Source: https://prayer.knowing-jesus.com/Esther

DANIEL A PROPHET OF GOD

Daniel refers to himself in the first person several times between Daniel 7:15 and 10:12. He was deported as a teenager in 605 b.c. to Babylon where he lived over sixty years. He was likely from an upper-class family in Jerusalem. The deportation of the royal descendants into Babylon had been prophesied by Isaiah to Hezekiah (Is. 39:7). Daniel initially served as a trainee in Nebuchadnezzar’s court; he was later an advisor to foreign kings.

His importance as a prophet was confirmed by Jesus in Matthew 24:15. Daniel means “God Is My Judge.” His unshakable consecration to Yahweh and his loyalty to God’s people strongly affirmed that truth in his life.

Although the siege and carrying away of captives into Babylon lasted several years, the mighty men of valor, the skilled, and the educated were taken from Jerusalem early in the war (2 Kin. 24:14). The date usually given for Daniel’s captivity is 605 b.c. His prophecy covers the time span of his life.

Along with thousands of captives from Judah who were taken into Babylonian exile between 605 b.c. and 582 b.c., the treasures of Solomon’s palace and the temple were also transported. The Babylonians had subdued all the provinces ruled by Assyria and had consolidated their empire into an area that covered much of the Middle East.

To govern such a diversified kingdom over such an expanse of space required a skillful administrative bureaucracy. Slaves who were educated or possessed needed skills became the manpower for the government. Because of their wisdom, knowledge, and handsome appearance, four young Hebrews were selected for the training program (1:4). The outstanding character of Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah secured positions for them in the king’s palace; and it was Daniel who rose to excel all the wise men of that vast empire (6:1–3).

The purpose is to show that the God of Israel, the only God, is in control of the destiny of all nations.

Daniel has three main sections: Introduction to the person of Daniel (ch. 1), Daniel’s key tests of character and the development of his prophetic interpretation skills (chs. 2—7), and his series of visions about future kingdoms and events (chs. 8—12). In this final section, Daniel emerges as a key prophetic book for understanding much of the Bible. Many insights into end-times prophecies are dependent upon an understanding of this book. Jesus’ comments in the Olivet Discourse (Matt. 24; 25) and many of the revelations given to the apostle Paul find harmony and cohesion in Daniel (see Rom. 11; 2 Thess. 2). Likewise, it becomes a necessary study companion to the Book of Revelation.

Although the interpretation of Daniel, like Revelation, is subject to great diversity, for many the dispensational approach has become quite popular. It is an interpretive approach that sees in Daniel keys to help unlock the mysteries of such subjects as the Antichrist, the Great Tribulation, the Second Coming of Christ, the Times of the Gentiles, future resurrections, and judgments. This approach also sees most unfulfilled prophecy as revolving around two major focal points: 1) the future destiny of the city of Jerusalem; 2) the future destiny of Daniel’s people, national Jews (9:24). See Introduction to Revelation: Methods of Interpretation.

Daniel’s writing covers the reign of two kingdoms, Babylon and Medo-Persia, and four kings: Nebuchadnezzar (2:11—4:37); Belshazzar (5:1–31); Darius (6:1–28); and Cyrus (10:1—11:1).

One of the beautiful themes of this book is the emphasis on separation to God, with Daniel as the ultimate example. From their decision not to eat the king’s food to the refusal to bow to the image of the king, Daniel and his three friends (now named Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-Nego) displayed such an uncompromising spirit that spectacular opportunities were opened for God to display His power on their behalf. Their courageous commitment presents a timeless challenge to believers not to compromise their testimony of Jesus Christ. Even though it may mean a fiery-furnace testing, the Lord’s protection and deliverance will be there.

Daniel 9:9-12 “‘Compassion is our only hope, the compassion of you, the Master, our God, since in our rebellion we’ve forfeited our rights. We paid no attention to you when you told us how to live, the clear teaching that came through your servants the prophets. All of us in Israel ignored what you said. We defied your instructions and did what we pleased. And now we’re paying for it: The solemn curse written out plainly in the revelation to God’s servant Moses is now doing its work among us, the wages of our sin against you. You did to us and our rulers what you said you would do: You brought this catastrophic disaster on us, the worst disaster on record—and in Jerusalem!  ~New Spirit-Filled Life Bible

 Daniel's Prayer 9:1-19

 4 Keys to Revival

Daniel REPENTED for himself and for his people

 Daniel 9:4,5, and 9:17

Preparing To Receive The Lord 

Daniel 9:4a And I prayed unto the Lord my God, and made my confession, and said, Daniel REPENTED for himself and for his people.

MY CONFESSION: It is important for us as the people of God to realize our own imperfections. It is important for us to understand the reason for which we should not judge – we too are sinners, saved by grace, yet sinners.

Matthew 7:1 “Judge not that ye be not judged. For with what judgment you judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured back to you.”

Daniel 9:4b O Lord, the great and dreadful God, keeping the covenant and mercy to them that love him, and to them that keep his commandments;

Daniel recognized the awesomeness of God. This is a key factor that we should all consider in our prayers. Do we come with a gimme attitude or do we come to worship and praise His Holy Name?

Daniel 9:5 We have sinned, and have committed iniquity, and have done wickedly, and have rebelled, even by departing from thy precepts and from thy judgments:

WE HAVE SINNED! Daniel was making supplication for his own as well as the national sins of Israel.

Daniel 9:17 Now therefore, O our God, hear the prayer of thy servant, and his supplications, and cause thy face to shine upon thy sanctuary that is desolate, for the Lord’s sake.

We need to pray that for HIS SAKE – America is yet known as a Christian nation among the nations of the earth, though sadly we are far from so being, but the nations are now saying (as they did of Israel) where is their god???

Let us today begin to live a lifestyle of repentance before God. Let us prepare for His Second Advent – His coming in clouds of glory – by repenting of our sins, both private and public, personal and national. Let us begin to pray for a revival that will spread throughout this land.

Let us pray for salvation of souls. Let us pray for the many foreigners who live in America to be saved and to see as Alexis de Touqueville said, “her pulpits are aflame with righteousness.” ~Bits & Pieces of Daniel's Prayer