HAD ENOUGH YET?
Have you ever made a choice in life that you thought was a great decision when you made it, just to have it blow up in your face? Those are the times when we realize, we should have taken the time to analyze that decision before we went full steam ahead, without considering the consequences of our choices. Well, this story that Jesus talks about in the book of Luke is also about a young son that made a choice in life that later he would have to admit to himself and to his father that he had made the wrong choice.
In the book of Luke, Jesus tells us about “ The Parable Of The Lost Son”.
Jesus continued: “There was a man who had two sons. The younger one said to his father, Father, give me my share of the estate. So he divided his property between them. Not long after that, the younger son got together all he had, set off for a distant country and there squandered his wealth in wild living. After he had spent everything, there was a severe famine in the whole country, and he began to be in need. So he went and hired himself out to a citizen of that country, who sent him to his fields to feed the pigs. He longed to fill his stomach with the pods that the pigs were eating, but no one gave him anything. When he came to his senses, he said, ‘How many of my father’s hired men have food to spare, and here I am starving to death! I will set out and go back to my father and say to him: Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son; make me like one of your hired men. So he got up and went to his father." (Luke 15:11-20)
Note: How many times we must have thought to ourselves, “The grass must be greener on the other side”. Somehow we thought we’re not getting what we wanted or what we thought we deserved and we make foolish decision under this false pretence. This young man had it made at his father’s house and he didn’t even know it. We sometimes don’t see or recognize how good we have it, until it is gone. We all make mistakes, not one of us are perfect but when we do something wrong we should not be too proud to say “ I was wrong, I made a mistake, I’m sorry, Forgive me.
When we disobey the Lord and we ignore His guidance for our life, we are also making a bad decision, a huge mistake! Only in obeying the Lord do we have joy, peace, unconditional love, purpose, and fulfillment in life. Success for our future… “You will be blessed when you come in and blessed when you go out” (Deuteronomy 28:6). We cannot continue to live this rebellious lifestyle against God and not have His hand against us (1 Samuel 12:15). This is when we have to heed what the Apostle Paul tells the Galatians: "Do not be deceived: GOD CANNOT BE MOCKED. A man reaps what he sows. The one who sows to please his sinful nature, from that nature WILL REAP DESTRUCTION; the one who sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit WILL REAP ETERNAL LIFE." (Galatians 6:7-8)
In this Parable, the young son goes back to his father and this is what happened:
“But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him. The son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son. But the father said to his servants, ‘Quick! Bring the best robe and put it on him. Put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet. Bring the fattened calf and kill it. Let’s have a feast and celebrate. For this son of mine was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.’ So they began to celebrate." (Luke 15:20-24). Just like this young man’s father had compassion for his son so will GOD have compassion on all who will come to Him with a repentant heart.
Note: Going our own way, doing our own thing, never works. We don’t know what’s best for us. No matter how smart we think we are, without God’s guidance in our lives we will all fall flat on our faces. Life is hard enough as it is and we are making it even harder for ourselves by going against the only One that can help us and save us from our problems, GOD. This was a lesson that the prodigal son had to learn. The very person he had to return to for help was the very same person he turned from and hurt the most, his father.
This is what God is saying to us from the book of Jeremiah: “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. (Watch this …don’t miss it) You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. I will be found by you,” declares the Lord… (Jeremiah 29:11-14). It’s never too late to tell God I was wrong, I made a mistake, I’m sorry, forgive me. Some people like to see others fall flat on their faces so they could laugh at them or say, “ That’s what you get for not listening” but this is not how God is. God is waiting with open arms for you to return to Him… He can’t wait for that wonderful reunion between you and Him. Words cannot express how much He loves you, how much you mean to HIM.
Note: GOD is not a God of rules, as some may think. This is not a legalistic teaching; it is about a Holy GOD who expects his followers to mimic the life of His Son (Jesus Christ) here on earth. Jesus says: "Whoever has my commands and obeys them, he is the one who loves me." (John 14:21). Actions speak louder than words!
When a person is filled with the love of God, Filled with the Holy Spirit… they will love their neighbor as themselves (Romans 13: 8-10). They will not repay evil with evil or insult with insult but instead they will bless (1 Peter 3:9). They will love and pray for their enemies (Matthew 5:44). They will forgive others who have offended them just like their heavenly Father forgives them (Matthew 6:14-15). They will treat people the way they themselves would like to be treated (Matthew 7:12). They will know that they’ve been saved by grace and not by works (Ephesians 2:8-9), and they will definitely know that this doesn’t mean… “ Hooray! I been saved by grace, so, now I can live like hell and still go to heaven” No! The Bible says: “Live as free men, but do not use your freedom as a cover-up for evil; live as servants of God." (1 Peter 2:16)
Let me give you another scripture concerning the way all Christians should conduct themselves while living here on earth. This scripture is found in the book of 1 John and it reads like this: “We know that we have come to know him if we obey his commands. The man who says, “ I know Him,” but does not do what He commands is a liar, and the truth is not in him. But if anyone obeys His word, God’s love is truly made complete in him. (Watch this…don’t miss it) This is how we know we are in Him: Whoever claims to live in him must walk as Jesus did." (1 John 2:3-6)
Everything about us should let the world know that we are “A New Creation”, our lives should be a walking mirror of the living Christ living inside of us. The things that God tells us to do are not burdensome or too hard to carry out; it’s only a matter of choice. Whose choice? Our choice! “The world and its desires pass away; BUT the MAN who DOES the WILL of GOD lives FOREVER.” (1 John 2:17)
Note: God just wants His followers to do right, live right. Love God, Love people… What’s so wrong or hard about that? It’s only hard because we are not willing to live this kind of life. So we use every excuse possible not to follow and obey the Lord. We blame God, family, friends, circumstances, is always somebody else’s fault… We never look in the mirror and say, “ It’s me”. I’m the problem, I admit it, I just don’t want to live this kind of life; I do not want to serve and obey God, sin is a lot more fun and attractive to me right now… “BUT men loved darkness instead of light because their deeds were evil." (John 3:19). It’s never too late to take a new direction in life; it’s never too late to do the right thing. If you have reached the point in life when you say, "I HAD ENOUGH?" and you're ready for a change in your life then Jesus is the ONE to call upon. Nothing in this world last forever, but what you do for the Lord Jesus Christ will! You have to make a decision; do I follow God or the world? The choice is yours.
“If my people, who are called by my name, will 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.” (2 Chronicles 7:14)
GOD BLESS YOU ALL NOW AND ALWAYS
YOUR FRIEND,
VICKY RIVERA
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
Friday, March 20, 2009
WHAT KIND OF BUILDER ARE YOU?
WHAT KIND OF BUILDER ARE YOU?
Jesus said: "...In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world."(John 16:33)
Just because you are a Christian person, does not mean that you won’t face difficulties here on earth. We are not exempt from trials, pain, financial problems, sickness, death, betrayal, etc. These will come and depending on how you deal with these situations will determine "What Kind Of Builder You Are." The Lord did not leave us here on earth to face these situations alone…He's ALWAYS with us and He has also given us the answers and instructions on how to deal with them when they come up. Through the different stories in the Bible …You can see how many times God delivered His people. They are our examples to follow when the times of testing come our way. Whatever kind of problem or difficulty you are facing right now the Lord has the answer.
In the Bible the Lord, talks about the wise and foolish builders.
“Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had it’s foundation on the rock.”
Note: What the Lord is saying here is, if you "OBEY" Him and you live your life like he commands, then you are "The Wise Builder". When the trials of life come, because you have put into practice what He has taught you …You’ll be able to stand. (The house here means people; the rain, streams, and winds means the different trials that we will face here on earth, the ROCK is Jesus, HE is your foundation… He’ll be with you all the way) So we have nothing to worry about... Nothing to fear! Because the Lord will always be with us... BUT we must first put into practice/action what HE has taught us... Jesus says:" But everyone who hears these words of mine and does not put them into practice is like a foolish man who built his house on sand. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell with a great crash.” (Matthew 7: 24-27)-NIV
Note: When we don’t put into practice what the Lord is teaching us in His word, we would be classified as "Foolish Builders". The person who follows any other teachings, than that of Christ, is considered a person who has built their life on a foundation of sand. In order for you to see a real change in your life and to be able to handle the difficult times that will come to your life, you will have to do your part...Our part is to follow and obey our Lord's commands and His teachings. (John 14:15, 21, 23-24) Friends, Our actions will always speak louder than our words!
As it is written, “The Lord helps those who LOVE (Obey) Him. (Psalm 50:15, 91:14-16, Jeremiah 29:11-13) Call on Jesus, my friends... Seek Him daily!
Let me give you an example-- in an action I had to take in my own life: In the beginning of the year I wanted to lose some weight. I new that I would not see the results, that I wanted to see until I made all of the changes in my life that, it would take to accomplish that goal. So I had to watch what I ate, had smaller portion meals, and exercise. I didn’t see results right away, but because I stuck with it and didn’t give up ….I started to see the changes I was looking for. Wishful thinking gets us nowhere … ACTIONS WILL.
Friends, The Bible is constantly admonishing us to put our faith into "actions". "It is the LORD your God you must follow, and him you must revere. Keep his commands and obey him; serve him and hold fast to him." (Deuteronomy 10:12-13, 13:4, Ecclesiastes 12: 13-14, John 14:15, 21-23, 24, Luke 11:28, 1 Corinthians 7:19, 2 Timothy 2:19, 1 John 2:3-6)
Remember GOD'S commands are meant to guide us and to protect us. HE is our loving Father and HE only wants the best for us. Obeying HIM is in our best interest. "...For the LORD is your (our) LIFE..." (Deuteronomy 30:20) Amen! Trust Him ALWAYS… He’ll never let you down.
"MY sheep listen to MY voice; I know them, and they follow ME." (John 10:27)
GOD BLESS YOU ALL NOW AND ALWAYS
YOUR FRIEND,
VICKY RIVERA
Jesus said: "...In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world."(John 16:33)
Just because you are a Christian person, does not mean that you won’t face difficulties here on earth. We are not exempt from trials, pain, financial problems, sickness, death, betrayal, etc. These will come and depending on how you deal with these situations will determine "What Kind Of Builder You Are." The Lord did not leave us here on earth to face these situations alone…He's ALWAYS with us and He has also given us the answers and instructions on how to deal with them when they come up. Through the different stories in the Bible …You can see how many times God delivered His people. They are our examples to follow when the times of testing come our way. Whatever kind of problem or difficulty you are facing right now the Lord has the answer.
In the Bible the Lord, talks about the wise and foolish builders.
“Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had it’s foundation on the rock.”
Note: What the Lord is saying here is, if you "OBEY" Him and you live your life like he commands, then you are "The Wise Builder". When the trials of life come, because you have put into practice what He has taught you …You’ll be able to stand. (The house here means people; the rain, streams, and winds means the different trials that we will face here on earth, the ROCK is Jesus, HE is your foundation… He’ll be with you all the way) So we have nothing to worry about... Nothing to fear! Because the Lord will always be with us... BUT we must first put into practice/action what HE has taught us... Jesus says:" But everyone who hears these words of mine and does not put them into practice is like a foolish man who built his house on sand. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell with a great crash.” (Matthew 7: 24-27)-NIV
Note: When we don’t put into practice what the Lord is teaching us in His word, we would be classified as "Foolish Builders". The person who follows any other teachings, than that of Christ, is considered a person who has built their life on a foundation of sand. In order for you to see a real change in your life and to be able to handle the difficult times that will come to your life, you will have to do your part...Our part is to follow and obey our Lord's commands and His teachings. (John 14:15, 21, 23-24) Friends, Our actions will always speak louder than our words!
As it is written, “The Lord helps those who LOVE (Obey) Him. (Psalm 50:15, 91:14-16, Jeremiah 29:11-13) Call on Jesus, my friends... Seek Him daily!
Let me give you an example-- in an action I had to take in my own life: In the beginning of the year I wanted to lose some weight. I new that I would not see the results, that I wanted to see until I made all of the changes in my life that, it would take to accomplish that goal. So I had to watch what I ate, had smaller portion meals, and exercise. I didn’t see results right away, but because I stuck with it and didn’t give up ….I started to see the changes I was looking for. Wishful thinking gets us nowhere … ACTIONS WILL.
Friends, The Bible is constantly admonishing us to put our faith into "actions". "It is the LORD your God you must follow, and him you must revere. Keep his commands and obey him; serve him and hold fast to him." (Deuteronomy 10:12-13, 13:4, Ecclesiastes 12: 13-14, John 14:15, 21-23, 24, Luke 11:28, 1 Corinthians 7:19, 2 Timothy 2:19, 1 John 2:3-6)
Remember GOD'S commands are meant to guide us and to protect us. HE is our loving Father and HE only wants the best for us. Obeying HIM is in our best interest. "...For the LORD is your (our) LIFE..." (Deuteronomy 30:20) Amen! Trust Him ALWAYS… He’ll never let you down.
"MY sheep listen to MY voice; I know them, and they follow ME." (John 10:27)
GOD BLESS YOU ALL NOW AND ALWAYS
YOUR FRIEND,
VICKY RIVERA
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
DON'T GIVE UP!
DON’T GIVE UP!
Many of us are going through all kinds of hardship in our lives right now. Times of uncertainty and a cloudy future but have no fear my brothers and sisters in Christ… We have the Victory in Christ our Lord.
The Lord did warn us before hand that things like this would happen to us…
“In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33)
Note: Have we built our Foundation on the Rock or Sand? The ones that apply the Lord’s teaching for their lives will be the ones, who have built their foundation on “The Rock” (Matthew 7:24-25) These builders when times of testing come whether it is sickness, loss of a loved one, finances, etc.-These will be able to stand because they have applied to their lives the teachings of the living God.
A person who has built their foundation on the “Rock” when the storms of life come no matter how strong that storm may be, they will fully trust and believe in Jesus to save/help them out of that situation. A person who has built their foundation on the rock will apply the teachings of the Lord in EVERY situation their life-especially the hard ones. When the times of testing come they know what to do, because they have been taught by the Master (Jesus). When the storms of life come they will not give in to fear, anxiety, despair, hopelessness because they know how big and awesome their GOD is (Jesus is more than capable of handling whatever situation we are in). A person who builds his home on the rock will hear the voice of their Shepherd and follow Him at ALL times… "For they will walk by faith and not by sight." (2 Corinthians 5:7)~NKJV
Knowing without a shadow of a doubt that the same God that was with David when he faced Goliath is with you… This is the same God that David spoke of when he wrote “A righteous man may have many troubles, but the Lord delivers him from them all…” (Psalm 34:19) Not some of your problems but "ALL" says the Lord. My friends: "TRUST" in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.” (Proverbs 3:5)
Have faith in the Lord … He won’t let you down. Jesus tells us this: "Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away." (Mark 13:31) Whatever our Master has said, that HE, would do for those that follow Him will come to pass in their lives. You can fully count on Jesus; He has never failed anyone who has put his or her trust in Him… NEVER!
Check out how he delivered the Hebrews boys from the hot blazing furnace the King, Nebuchadnezzar threw them in. (Daniel 3:1-30) Daniel will tell you how the Lord shut the mouths of the lions in the den he was in. (Daniel 6:19-23) The same God that rescued them from ALL their troubles will rescue us also if we trust, obey, and follow Him. Through out the Holy Scriptures you see God protecting and delivering His children.
“ I lift up my eyes to the hills – where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.” (Psalm 121:1-2)
WHAT AN AWESOME GOD WE SERVE!!! SO WHY GIVE IN TO DESPAIR AND FEAR IF THIS IS THE KIND OF GOD WE HAVE ON OUR SIDE..."Have I not commanded you? BE strong AND courageous. DO NOT be afraid; DO NOT be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go."(Joshua 1:9)
Note: This is one of the reasons I have fallen in love with the word of GOD. It is God’s blueprint to everyday living. God has given us solutions to any and every situation that we may face in this life. He’s got us covered Completely… Hallelujah! The Victory is ours through Christ Jesus our Lord. Amen
People that do not apply the Lord’s teachings to their lives are considered to be as one who has built their foundation on “ The Sand”. These will fall with a great crash because they did not built their foundation on the “Rock” which is Jesus our Lord. (Matthew 7:26-27)
A person that has built their foundation of “Sand” will easily give in to despair, fear and hopelessness. They believe the lies of the devil, they follow man instead of the Lord, and they definitely don’t think or believe God can help/save them from their situation. (Whatever the situation may be)
Note: I can hear Moses telling us as he told Israel when Pharaoh and his army where closing in on them before the crossing of the sea…
“Moses answered the people, “Do not be afraid. Stand firm and you will see the deliverance the Lord will bring you today. The Egyptians you see today you will never see again. (Watch this last verse… NEVER forget it!) The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.” (Exodus 14:13-14)
Stand my brothers and sisters in Christ…Stand on God’s promises.
Note: Be prepared when the enemy tries to put thoughts of despair, fear and hopelessness into your minds and hearts. Speak to him in the same manner that Jesus did in the wilderness…
The Bible says:
“The tempter came to him and said, “If you are the Son of God, tell these stones to become bread.”Jesus answered, “ It is written: ‘Man does not live on bread alone, but on EVERY word that comes from the mouth of GOD." (Matthew 4:3-4)
Note: STUDY the word of GOD, so that you know, how to answer the devil when he comes to derail you and get you off the track that God has placed you in. God will show you how to answer the devil and what to do in any and every situation that life may bring your way.
When Satan tells you… GOD has forgotten you,
You tell him… It is written: “I will not forget you! See, I have engraved you on the palms of my hands…" (Isaiah 49:15-16)
When he (Satan) tells you … you don’t have what you need to pay your bills this month…
You say… It is written: “And my God will meet all (My) your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus." (Philippians 4:19)
The Lord says: “But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well." (Matthew 6:33)
Note: The Lord has said to us that if we seek His kingdom and His righteousness first, NOT last or when we get around to it, but really giving God first place in our life; that is when He will give us what we need. Guaranteed!! If you do what God asks of you, then He will do what He says He will do for you …IF you obey and trust him FIRST.
I am giving you what I myself have tried and live by everyday and found it to be the absolute truth. If you line yourself with God’s will and purpose for your life these and many other promises written through out the Holy Scriptures will be fulfilled in your life … He will take care of you! This is from the mouth of the Lord Himself. Obedience to GOD always brings blessings into our lives and home.
This is a word that the Lord gave to me, so I in turn want to share it with all of you and to let you know that everything is going to be all right because Jesus has the wheel…“But as for you, be strong and do not give up, for your work will be rewarded.” (2 Chronicles 15:7)
Don’t give up! Remember, “With God all things are possible.” WE ARE ON THE WINNING TEAM! HOW CAN WE LOSE? "DON'T GIVE UP" AND "FIGHT the good fight of faith!" (1Timothy 6:12)
GOD BLESS YOU ALL NOW AND ALWAYS
YOUR FRIEND,
VICKY RIVERA
Many of us are going through all kinds of hardship in our lives right now. Times of uncertainty and a cloudy future but have no fear my brothers and sisters in Christ… We have the Victory in Christ our Lord.
The Lord did warn us before hand that things like this would happen to us…
“In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33)
Note: Have we built our Foundation on the Rock or Sand? The ones that apply the Lord’s teaching for their lives will be the ones, who have built their foundation on “The Rock” (Matthew 7:24-25) These builders when times of testing come whether it is sickness, loss of a loved one, finances, etc.-These will be able to stand because they have applied to their lives the teachings of the living God.
A person who has built their foundation on the “Rock” when the storms of life come no matter how strong that storm may be, they will fully trust and believe in Jesus to save/help them out of that situation. A person who has built their foundation on the rock will apply the teachings of the Lord in EVERY situation their life-especially the hard ones. When the times of testing come they know what to do, because they have been taught by the Master (Jesus). When the storms of life come they will not give in to fear, anxiety, despair, hopelessness because they know how big and awesome their GOD is (Jesus is more than capable of handling whatever situation we are in). A person who builds his home on the rock will hear the voice of their Shepherd and follow Him at ALL times… "For they will walk by faith and not by sight." (2 Corinthians 5:7)~NKJV
Knowing without a shadow of a doubt that the same God that was with David when he faced Goliath is with you… This is the same God that David spoke of when he wrote “A righteous man may have many troubles, but the Lord delivers him from them all…” (Psalm 34:19) Not some of your problems but "ALL" says the Lord. My friends: "TRUST" in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.” (Proverbs 3:5)
Have faith in the Lord … He won’t let you down. Jesus tells us this: "Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away." (Mark 13:31) Whatever our Master has said, that HE, would do for those that follow Him will come to pass in their lives. You can fully count on Jesus; He has never failed anyone who has put his or her trust in Him… NEVER!
Check out how he delivered the Hebrews boys from the hot blazing furnace the King, Nebuchadnezzar threw them in. (Daniel 3:1-30) Daniel will tell you how the Lord shut the mouths of the lions in the den he was in. (Daniel 6:19-23) The same God that rescued them from ALL their troubles will rescue us also if we trust, obey, and follow Him. Through out the Holy Scriptures you see God protecting and delivering His children.
“ I lift up my eyes to the hills – where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.” (Psalm 121:1-2)
WHAT AN AWESOME GOD WE SERVE!!! SO WHY GIVE IN TO DESPAIR AND FEAR IF THIS IS THE KIND OF GOD WE HAVE ON OUR SIDE..."Have I not commanded you? BE strong AND courageous. DO NOT be afraid; DO NOT be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go."(Joshua 1:9)
Note: This is one of the reasons I have fallen in love with the word of GOD. It is God’s blueprint to everyday living. God has given us solutions to any and every situation that we may face in this life. He’s got us covered Completely… Hallelujah! The Victory is ours through Christ Jesus our Lord. Amen
People that do not apply the Lord’s teachings to their lives are considered to be as one who has built their foundation on “ The Sand”. These will fall with a great crash because they did not built their foundation on the “Rock” which is Jesus our Lord. (Matthew 7:26-27)
A person that has built their foundation of “Sand” will easily give in to despair, fear and hopelessness. They believe the lies of the devil, they follow man instead of the Lord, and they definitely don’t think or believe God can help/save them from their situation. (Whatever the situation may be)
Note: I can hear Moses telling us as he told Israel when Pharaoh and his army where closing in on them before the crossing of the sea…
“Moses answered the people, “Do not be afraid. Stand firm and you will see the deliverance the Lord will bring you today. The Egyptians you see today you will never see again. (Watch this last verse… NEVER forget it!) The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.” (Exodus 14:13-14)
Stand my brothers and sisters in Christ…Stand on God’s promises.
Note: Be prepared when the enemy tries to put thoughts of despair, fear and hopelessness into your minds and hearts. Speak to him in the same manner that Jesus did in the wilderness…
The Bible says:
“The tempter came to him and said, “If you are the Son of God, tell these stones to become bread.”Jesus answered, “ It is written: ‘Man does not live on bread alone, but on EVERY word that comes from the mouth of GOD." (Matthew 4:3-4)
Note: STUDY the word of GOD, so that you know, how to answer the devil when he comes to derail you and get you off the track that God has placed you in. God will show you how to answer the devil and what to do in any and every situation that life may bring your way.
When Satan tells you… GOD has forgotten you,
You tell him… It is written: “I will not forget you! See, I have engraved you on the palms of my hands…" (Isaiah 49:15-16)
When he (Satan) tells you … you don’t have what you need to pay your bills this month…
You say… It is written: “And my God will meet all (My) your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus." (Philippians 4:19)
The Lord says: “But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well." (Matthew 6:33)
Note: The Lord has said to us that if we seek His kingdom and His righteousness first, NOT last or when we get around to it, but really giving God first place in our life; that is when He will give us what we need. Guaranteed!! If you do what God asks of you, then He will do what He says He will do for you …IF you obey and trust him FIRST.
I am giving you what I myself have tried and live by everyday and found it to be the absolute truth. If you line yourself with God’s will and purpose for your life these and many other promises written through out the Holy Scriptures will be fulfilled in your life … He will take care of you! This is from the mouth of the Lord Himself. Obedience to GOD always brings blessings into our lives and home.
This is a word that the Lord gave to me, so I in turn want to share it with all of you and to let you know that everything is going to be all right because Jesus has the wheel…“But as for you, be strong and do not give up, for your work will be rewarded.” (2 Chronicles 15:7)
Don’t give up! Remember, “With God all things are possible.” WE ARE ON THE WINNING TEAM! HOW CAN WE LOSE? "DON'T GIVE UP" AND "FIGHT the good fight of faith!" (1Timothy 6:12)
GOD BLESS YOU ALL NOW AND ALWAYS
YOUR FRIEND,
VICKY RIVERA
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
SAYING BYE TO THE OLD MAN
SAYING BYE TO THE OLD MAN!
The Bible says: Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come! (2 Corinthians 5:17)
"The old has gone", Paul tells the reader. The old way of thinking, the old way of behaving is no longer acceptable for any Christian to live by any longer. Everything about you should let the world know that you've been born again, that you are a new creation, a new person!
Note: Why would people want to have a relationship with Jesus, if we (Who claim to be Christians) behave and act like those who have no hope? They may say to themselves “If it didn't work for you ... It won't work for me either”. Friends, we represent the King Of Kings in this world and as the representatives of the living God we must walk, talk and act like Him... In "righteous and holy living". (Titus 2:11-14, 1 John 2:3-6)
The world is looking for peace, for love and permanent lasting solutions for the different problems that humanity is facing right now. The answer to all these problems is and it will always be in a committed and devoted relationship with Christ Jesus. Living a life of obedience to God will always bring blessings, but living your life in opposition to God’s commandments will always bring devastation, judgments and destruction. Only God can turn things around for our good but we have to be willing to follow and trust His plan for our lives. (Romans 8:28)
If the life you live consists in the total opposition to God’s way of living and you rebel against His commands, then, when things go wrong in your life, you can’t say, "why has God allow this to happen to me, where is God?" We can’t do what we want and then expect things to be great and wonderful in our lives. If you want to have success and happiness in this life then, my friends, only those that follow and obey the Lord will have a happy and a successful life. If you’re tired of going your own way and if you are frustrated that everything you have tried hasn’t worked… Then, try doing things God’s way. What do you have to lose? You’ve given everything else a try... God says; He will give success and happiness to all those that follow and obey His commandments, He will take care of you. (See Deuteronomy 28:8, 12, Psalm 34:10, Psalm 91:14, Matthew 6:25-33, Philippians 4:19)
The Bible says:
"In the same way, COUNT yourselves "DEAD TO SIN" but alive to God in Christ Jesus. Therefore DO NOT let sin reign in your mortal body so that you obey its evil desires. DO NOT offer the parts of your body to sin, as instruments of wickedness, but rather offer yourselves to God, as those who have been brought from death to life; and offer the parts of your body to him as instruments of righteousness. For sin shall not be your master, because you are NOT under law, BUT under GRACE." (Romans 6:11-14)
"DO NOT" be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. The one who sows to please his sinful nature, from that nature will reap destruction” (Galatians 6:7-8)
"You, my brothers, were called to be free. But "DO NOT" use your freedom to indulge the sinful nature; RATHER, serve one another in love. The entire law is summed up in a single command: “ Love your neighbor as yourself.” (Galatians 5:13-14)
What is in the old nature? This is what Paul tells the Galatians...
"The acts of the sinful nature are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity, and debauchery; idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambitions, dissentions, factions and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. (Watch This...Don't Miss It!) I warn you, as I did before, that THOSE who LIVE like this "WILL NOT" inherit the kingdom of God." (Remember these letters are written to the church … Saved people)- Galatians 5:19-21
Note: As Christians...We are made into “ A New Creation” we have no business wallowing up in sin any longer. That old life should not have a place in any Christian’s life, "NOTHING" about that old nature should be appealing to us. That old life was meaningless, empty and destructive. What’s so attractive about that? (Romans 6:16)
The life of a Spirit- filled Christian will be lived in this way- "The Fruits of the Spirit"
"BUT the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the sinful nature with its passions and desires. Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit. Let us not become conceited, provoking and envy each other." (Galatians 5:22-26)
Note: We have to be disciplined servants of the gospel of our Lord. We, who say to others … I am a Christian, we "MUST" walk, talk and live like Christ's commands... We must be faithful servants of the living God. (John 14:15, 21, 23-24, John 15:14, John 13:34-35, 1 John 2:3-6, 1 John 5:2-3)
I can relate and understand to what Paul tells the Corinthian Church in how he deals with the old nature. I have committed myself to exercise everyday and to eat healthy. I want you to know that this is not always easy, but I am determined to be healthy in mind, body and spirit. Whether my body feels like it or not we exercise everyday and we eat healthy no matter how many fast food places we pass along the way. I made up my mind… I want to be healthy and with God’s help I will continue on this committed lifestyle and this same approach I have in my walk with Jesus. I stay close to my King in fasting, prayer and daily biblical studies. In the same way we should all have a committed lifestyle in righteousness, in holy living and in walking in obedience to our God. Make up your mind not to let sin be your master but count yourselves dead to sin once and for all. (Romans 6:11)
Look what Paul tells the Corinthians in how he deals with the old nature....
"Therefore I do not run like a man running aimlessly; I do not fight like a man beating the air. No, I beat my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize” (1 Corinthians 9:26-27)
Let us follow Paul’s spiritual exercise routines, for righteous and holy living daily.
GOD BLESS YOU ALL NOW AND ALWAYS
YOUR FRIEND,
VICKY RIVERA
The Bible says: Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come! (2 Corinthians 5:17)
"The old has gone", Paul tells the reader. The old way of thinking, the old way of behaving is no longer acceptable for any Christian to live by any longer. Everything about you should let the world know that you've been born again, that you are a new creation, a new person!
Note: Why would people want to have a relationship with Jesus, if we (Who claim to be Christians) behave and act like those who have no hope? They may say to themselves “If it didn't work for you ... It won't work for me either”. Friends, we represent the King Of Kings in this world and as the representatives of the living God we must walk, talk and act like Him... In "righteous and holy living". (Titus 2:11-14, 1 John 2:3-6)
The world is looking for peace, for love and permanent lasting solutions for the different problems that humanity is facing right now. The answer to all these problems is and it will always be in a committed and devoted relationship with Christ Jesus. Living a life of obedience to God will always bring blessings, but living your life in opposition to God’s commandments will always bring devastation, judgments and destruction. Only God can turn things around for our good but we have to be willing to follow and trust His plan for our lives. (Romans 8:28)
If the life you live consists in the total opposition to God’s way of living and you rebel against His commands, then, when things go wrong in your life, you can’t say, "why has God allow this to happen to me, where is God?" We can’t do what we want and then expect things to be great and wonderful in our lives. If you want to have success and happiness in this life then, my friends, only those that follow and obey the Lord will have a happy and a successful life. If you’re tired of going your own way and if you are frustrated that everything you have tried hasn’t worked… Then, try doing things God’s way. What do you have to lose? You’ve given everything else a try... God says; He will give success and happiness to all those that follow and obey His commandments, He will take care of you. (See Deuteronomy 28:8, 12, Psalm 34:10, Psalm 91:14, Matthew 6:25-33, Philippians 4:19)
The Bible says:
"In the same way, COUNT yourselves "DEAD TO SIN" but alive to God in Christ Jesus. Therefore DO NOT let sin reign in your mortal body so that you obey its evil desires. DO NOT offer the parts of your body to sin, as instruments of wickedness, but rather offer yourselves to God, as those who have been brought from death to life; and offer the parts of your body to him as instruments of righteousness. For sin shall not be your master, because you are NOT under law, BUT under GRACE." (Romans 6:11-14)
"DO NOT" be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. The one who sows to please his sinful nature, from that nature will reap destruction” (Galatians 6:7-8)
"You, my brothers, were called to be free. But "DO NOT" use your freedom to indulge the sinful nature; RATHER, serve one another in love. The entire law is summed up in a single command: “ Love your neighbor as yourself.” (Galatians 5:13-14)
What is in the old nature? This is what Paul tells the Galatians...
"The acts of the sinful nature are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity, and debauchery; idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambitions, dissentions, factions and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. (Watch This...Don't Miss It!) I warn you, as I did before, that THOSE who LIVE like this "WILL NOT" inherit the kingdom of God." (Remember these letters are written to the church … Saved people)- Galatians 5:19-21
Note: As Christians...We are made into “ A New Creation” we have no business wallowing up in sin any longer. That old life should not have a place in any Christian’s life, "NOTHING" about that old nature should be appealing to us. That old life was meaningless, empty and destructive. What’s so attractive about that? (Romans 6:16)
The life of a Spirit- filled Christian will be lived in this way- "The Fruits of the Spirit"
"BUT the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the sinful nature with its passions and desires. Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit. Let us not become conceited, provoking and envy each other." (Galatians 5:22-26)
Note: We have to be disciplined servants of the gospel of our Lord. We, who say to others … I am a Christian, we "MUST" walk, talk and live like Christ's commands... We must be faithful servants of the living God. (John 14:15, 21, 23-24, John 15:14, John 13:34-35, 1 John 2:3-6, 1 John 5:2-3)
I can relate and understand to what Paul tells the Corinthian Church in how he deals with the old nature. I have committed myself to exercise everyday and to eat healthy. I want you to know that this is not always easy, but I am determined to be healthy in mind, body and spirit. Whether my body feels like it or not we exercise everyday and we eat healthy no matter how many fast food places we pass along the way. I made up my mind… I want to be healthy and with God’s help I will continue on this committed lifestyle and this same approach I have in my walk with Jesus. I stay close to my King in fasting, prayer and daily biblical studies. In the same way we should all have a committed lifestyle in righteousness, in holy living and in walking in obedience to our God. Make up your mind not to let sin be your master but count yourselves dead to sin once and for all. (Romans 6:11)
Look what Paul tells the Corinthians in how he deals with the old nature....
"Therefore I do not run like a man running aimlessly; I do not fight like a man beating the air. No, I beat my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize” (1 Corinthians 9:26-27)
Let us follow Paul’s spiritual exercise routines, for righteous and holy living daily.
GOD BLESS YOU ALL NOW AND ALWAYS
YOUR FRIEND,
VICKY RIVERA
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
WHO IS MY NEIGHBOR?
WHO IS MY NEIGHBOR?
In the book of Luke the Lord tells: “The Parable of the Good Samaritan”
On one occasion an expert in the law stood up to test Jesus. “Teacher,” he asked, “what must I do to inherit eternal life?”
What is written in the Law?” he replied. “ How do you read it?”
He answered:“ Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind’ and, Love your neighbor as yourself.’
“ You have answered correctly,” Jesus replied. “ Do this and you will live.” (Meaning you will inherit eternal life if you love God and love your neighbor)
But he wanted to justify himself, so he asked Jesus, “ And who is my neighbor?”
In reply Jesus said: “ A man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho, when he fell into the hands of robbers. They stripped him of his clothes, beat him and went away, leaving him half dead. A priest (One who suppose to be a man of God) happened to be going down the same road, and when he saw the man, he passed by on the other side. So too, a Levite, when he came to the place and saw him, passed by on the other side. (The Levites are ordained for the priesthood and to serve in the temple of God)
But a Samaritan (The Jewish people did not associate with the Samaritians ... They did not get along with one another), as he traveled, came where the man was; and when he saw him, he took pity on him. He went to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring on oil and wine. Then he put the man on his donkey, took him to an inn and took care of him. The next day he took out two silver coins and gave them to the innkeeper. ‘ Look after him.’ He said, ‘and when I return, I will reimburse you for any extra expense you may have.’
“Which of these three do you think was a neighbor to the man who fell into the hands of robbers?”
The expert in the law replied, “The one who had mercy on him.” (Mercy is when you see someone needs help, and you help him or her)
Jesus told him,” Go and do likewise.” (Luke10:25-37)
If we are prejudice or racist against a people or nation, we are sinning against Our God. We are willingly breaking the command “ Love your neighbor as yourself”. One designer created all the peoples of the earth and His name is the Lord.
The Bible says:
For by him (Jesus Christ) all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things were created by him and for him. (Colossians 1:16)
In the book of Genesis says:
So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them. God blessed them and said to them, “Be fruitful and increase in number; fill the earth and subdue it. (Genesis 1:27-28)
We all came from one source, Adam and Eve. We are all connected, we are all brothers and sisters, and we all have one Creator. As believers we should not let other people, the media, or your co-workers lead us into a path of destruction. Disobedience to Our God will bring a curse upon us. We are not supposed to be people pleaser but God pleasers.
“Judge for yourselves whether it is right in God’s sight to obey you rather than God. (Acts 4:19) If we love all people, like the Lords commands regardless of their ethnic background, then we will be placed in the side of the sheep. (Matthew 25:34-40) but if we do not love all people like the Lord commands then we will be placed in the side of the goats. (Matthew 25: 41-46) Which side would you like to be placed on? If your answer is in the side of the sheep, then "WE MUST OBEY THE LORD"! “ LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF”
If you are prejudice or racist against people who are not of your race…Well let me tell you something heaven is not for you. In the Kingdom of God there are Chinese, African Americans, Hispanics, Caucasian, and many other races. (Revelation 7:9-10) If we can’t get along or love one another here on earth, what makes us think we will be any better in heaven? When we disobey the Lords commands, we are not acting like children of God but of the devil’s. Let me show you where God says this…
1 John 3:7-10
Dear children, do not let anyone lead you astray. He who does what is right is righteous, just as he is righteous. He who does what is sinful is of the devil, because the devil has been sinning from the beginning. The reason the Son of God appeared was to destroy the devil’s work. No one who is born of God will continue to sin, because God’s seed remains in him; he cannot go on sinning, because he has been born of God. This is how we know who the children of God are and who the children of the devil are: Anyone who does not do what is right is not a child of God; nor is anyone who does not love his brother.
1 John 4:20
If anyone says, “ I love God,” yet hates his brother, he is a liar. For anyone who does not love his brother, whom he has seen, cannot love God, whom he has not seen. And he has given us this command: Whoever loves God must also love his brother.
Recently, in the media, we have seen attention being drawn the subject of illegal aliens in our country. This recent problem has caused racism against many that are of Latino decent, whether they are illegal or not. I myself, as a Puerto Rican, have experience this first hand. Puerto Rico is a commonwealth of the United States. Because of this, people born on the island of Puerto Rico are born citizens. Many times ignorant people will discriminate against Puerto Ricans or other Latin American groups that are citizens and/ or born in the U.S. because of the media or other people’s influence. These “Ilegals” as the media and people call them; these are our brothers and sisters. We are all God’s children.
As I started writing this blog, I witnessed another disturbing news on CNN. A policeman arresting a 15 yr old, who happened to be African American girl that broke a curfew law? She bit the officer, but I question does that justify the action he took, by punching her in the face and then pepper spraying her in the face also. He is a grown man and she is the child. I believe he could have handle this differently. Check this out on the web at www.MSNBC.Video.com Judge for yourself, if his action was right in dealing with this 15yr old teenager.
My friends, the Lord does not want his children divided. What parent, likes to see their children, not getting along and not loving each other? This behavior between siblings is heart breaking for parents to go through. The Lord wants his children united and loving one another. If this is something you been feeling against your brothers and sisters, ask God for forgiveness, to take away prejudice and racism from your heart and fill your heart with a sincere and genuine love for all your brothers and sisters around the world.
Who is my neighbor is the title of this blog and the answer is every human being living on this earth is our neighbor. And we must obey the Lord’s command to “ Love your neighbor as yourself”
The Lord says in John 15:12, My command is this: "LOVE each other as I have loved you."
GOD BLESS YOU ALL NOW AND ALWAYS,
YOUR FRIEND,
VICKY RIVERA
In the book of Luke the Lord tells: “The Parable of the Good Samaritan”
On one occasion an expert in the law stood up to test Jesus. “Teacher,” he asked, “what must I do to inherit eternal life?”
What is written in the Law?” he replied. “ How do you read it?”
He answered:“ Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind’ and, Love your neighbor as yourself.’
“ You have answered correctly,” Jesus replied. “ Do this and you will live.” (Meaning you will inherit eternal life if you love God and love your neighbor)
But he wanted to justify himself, so he asked Jesus, “ And who is my neighbor?”
In reply Jesus said: “ A man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho, when he fell into the hands of robbers. They stripped him of his clothes, beat him and went away, leaving him half dead. A priest (One who suppose to be a man of God) happened to be going down the same road, and when he saw the man, he passed by on the other side. So too, a Levite, when he came to the place and saw him, passed by on the other side. (The Levites are ordained for the priesthood and to serve in the temple of God)
But a Samaritan (The Jewish people did not associate with the Samaritians ... They did not get along with one another), as he traveled, came where the man was; and when he saw him, he took pity on him. He went to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring on oil and wine. Then he put the man on his donkey, took him to an inn and took care of him. The next day he took out two silver coins and gave them to the innkeeper. ‘ Look after him.’ He said, ‘and when I return, I will reimburse you for any extra expense you may have.’
“Which of these three do you think was a neighbor to the man who fell into the hands of robbers?”
The expert in the law replied, “The one who had mercy on him.” (Mercy is when you see someone needs help, and you help him or her)
Jesus told him,” Go and do likewise.” (Luke10:25-37)
If we are prejudice or racist against a people or nation, we are sinning against Our God. We are willingly breaking the command “ Love your neighbor as yourself”. One designer created all the peoples of the earth and His name is the Lord.
The Bible says:
For by him (Jesus Christ) all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things were created by him and for him. (Colossians 1:16)
In the book of Genesis says:
So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them. God blessed them and said to them, “Be fruitful and increase in number; fill the earth and subdue it. (Genesis 1:27-28)
We all came from one source, Adam and Eve. We are all connected, we are all brothers and sisters, and we all have one Creator. As believers we should not let other people, the media, or your co-workers lead us into a path of destruction. Disobedience to Our God will bring a curse upon us. We are not supposed to be people pleaser but God pleasers.
“Judge for yourselves whether it is right in God’s sight to obey you rather than God. (Acts 4:19) If we love all people, like the Lords commands regardless of their ethnic background, then we will be placed in the side of the sheep. (Matthew 25:34-40) but if we do not love all people like the Lord commands then we will be placed in the side of the goats. (Matthew 25: 41-46) Which side would you like to be placed on? If your answer is in the side of the sheep, then "WE MUST OBEY THE LORD"! “ LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF”
If you are prejudice or racist against people who are not of your race…Well let me tell you something heaven is not for you. In the Kingdom of God there are Chinese, African Americans, Hispanics, Caucasian, and many other races. (Revelation 7:9-10) If we can’t get along or love one another here on earth, what makes us think we will be any better in heaven? When we disobey the Lords commands, we are not acting like children of God but of the devil’s. Let me show you where God says this…
1 John 3:7-10
Dear children, do not let anyone lead you astray. He who does what is right is righteous, just as he is righteous. He who does what is sinful is of the devil, because the devil has been sinning from the beginning. The reason the Son of God appeared was to destroy the devil’s work. No one who is born of God will continue to sin, because God’s seed remains in him; he cannot go on sinning, because he has been born of God. This is how we know who the children of God are and who the children of the devil are: Anyone who does not do what is right is not a child of God; nor is anyone who does not love his brother.
1 John 4:20
If anyone says, “ I love God,” yet hates his brother, he is a liar. For anyone who does not love his brother, whom he has seen, cannot love God, whom he has not seen. And he has given us this command: Whoever loves God must also love his brother.
Recently, in the media, we have seen attention being drawn the subject of illegal aliens in our country. This recent problem has caused racism against many that are of Latino decent, whether they are illegal or not. I myself, as a Puerto Rican, have experience this first hand. Puerto Rico is a commonwealth of the United States. Because of this, people born on the island of Puerto Rico are born citizens. Many times ignorant people will discriminate against Puerto Ricans or other Latin American groups that are citizens and/ or born in the U.S. because of the media or other people’s influence. These “Ilegals” as the media and people call them; these are our brothers and sisters. We are all God’s children.
As I started writing this blog, I witnessed another disturbing news on CNN. A policeman arresting a 15 yr old, who happened to be African American girl that broke a curfew law? She bit the officer, but I question does that justify the action he took, by punching her in the face and then pepper spraying her in the face also. He is a grown man and she is the child. I believe he could have handle this differently. Check this out on the web at www.MSNBC.Video.com Judge for yourself, if his action was right in dealing with this 15yr old teenager.
My friends, the Lord does not want his children divided. What parent, likes to see their children, not getting along and not loving each other? This behavior between siblings is heart breaking for parents to go through. The Lord wants his children united and loving one another. If this is something you been feeling against your brothers and sisters, ask God for forgiveness, to take away prejudice and racism from your heart and fill your heart with a sincere and genuine love for all your brothers and sisters around the world.
Who is my neighbor is the title of this blog and the answer is every human being living on this earth is our neighbor. And we must obey the Lord’s command to “ Love your neighbor as yourself”
The Lord says in John 15:12, My command is this: "LOVE each other as I have loved you."
GOD BLESS YOU ALL NOW AND ALWAYS,
YOUR FRIEND,
VICKY RIVERA
Monday, January 19, 2009
THE COMMISSION
THE COMMISSION
Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age. (Matthew 28:18-20)
Note: GOD at times will ask us to do something for Him and there are times, we don’t do it or get it right the first time around, but don’t get discouraged. We may fall down… But that does not mean we have to stay down. Get up in Jesus name and start again!
Peter denied his Lord. (Matthew 26:69-75) When, he had said, “Even if I have to die with you. I will never disown you.” (Matthew 26:35) Could you imagine how he must have felt? When he did the very thing he swore he would NOT do… Could you imagine the disappointment he must have felt in himself? Peter must have thought he was not the right man for the job, since he just had denied his Lord. (Matthew 26:34, 26:75, Mark 14:30, 14:72, Luke 22:34, 22:61)
The Lord told Peter …” And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will built my church…(Matthew 16:18) What God says, you will be and what you will do, will come to pass. (The Lord has done what he planned; he has fulfilled his word, which he decreed long ago.)- Lamentations 2:17.
Peter must have thought, after denying Jesus... I'm not cut out for this... So he went back to his old occupation (He was a Fisherman) until Jesus came and reminded him of his calling... What Peter was truly meant to do in this world! (Matthew 16:18, John 21:2-17)
Jesus asks Peter this: "Simon, son of John, do you truly love me more than these?” (Meaning do you love this job/occupation more than me?) “Yes Lord,” he said, you know that I love you. “Jesus said, “Feed my lambs. ”Again Jesus said, “Simon son of John, do you truly love me?” He answered, Yes, Lord, you know that I love you. ”Jesus said, “Take care of my sheep. ”The third time he said to him, “Simon son of John, do you love me? Peter was hurt because Jesus asked him the third time, “Do you love Me?” He said, “Lord, you know all things, you know that I love you.” Jesus said, “Feed my sheep. (John 21:15-17)
Note: I’m so glad that the Lord came to get Peter back on track and to remind him of what he was called to do (To start His Church). Peter got back on track and in the book of Acts we see him in action… Full of confidence and ready to save souls for the Kingdom of God. (Acts 2:14-41) Three thousand people got saved because of his obedience to the Lord. WOW!
We have all had some road blocks in our lives and those road blocks can sometimes cause us to think and question… Maybe this is not what I’m supposed to be doing. Did I hear God correctly?
My friends, a mistake, oppositions, does not mean God didn’t call you and it definitely does not mean that we just stop and give up! The Lord says, “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go." GOD is always with us… Why are you discouraged then? (Joshua 1:9, Matthew 28:18-20)
The Apostles were given a task by the Lord Jesus Christ to make disciples of all nations, to baptize, and to teach people to obey everything that He taught them. (Matthew 28:20) Going through the New Testament, we can see they did just that. Nothing was going to stop these men from carrying out the Lords commands. Not prison, beatings, death, or exile. What a wonderful thing that is … When the Lord can count on us to do His will. Obedience to the Lord Jesus blesses you and others too.
Nothing was going to stop these mighty men of God from making disciples of all men and teaching the good news of the gospel of Jesus Christ. Later in the book of Acts, the high priest and his associates gave orders to the apostles not to teach in the name of Jesus. I love Peter’s and the other apostle’s response. “We must obey God rather then men! (Acts 5:29) "When they would not obey the teachers of the law, they were beaten and released. They (The Apostles) left rejoicing because they believed they suffer disgrace for the Name (Jesus Name).- Acts 5:40-41. I am sure they were holding on to God’s promise when they endured the beatings. (“Blesses are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven”)- Matthew 5:10
Nothing was going to stop them. They knew the Lord Jesus was depending on them to deliver the gospel to a dying and hurting world, it was very important for them to deliver the message. God needed them to tell people...
TELL PEOPLE WHAT?
To tell them this: “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him. Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because he has not believed in the name of God’s one and only Son. (John 3:16-18)
The Bible says:
“For the Son of Man (Jesus Christ) came to seek and to save what was lost." (Luke 19:10)
The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance. (2 Peter 3:9)
Note: Friends the message is still urgent, the Lord Jesus is still extending His invitation to everyone who would believe in Him. Salvation is "FREE". Don’t let Him pass you by… Don't delay... Jesus is returning very soon!
Thank the Lord Almighty that the Apostles obeyed the call. Their obedience to the Lord has saved millions of souls around the world and many more are still coming to the Kingdom of God each day. This gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ has been translated into different languages. PRAISE THE LORD!
The Lord Jesus said: And the gospel must first be preached to all nations. (Mark 13:10) I believe we are living in the last days. He (Jesus Christ) is coming soon. Live your life like the Lord commands, obey Him and most important tell others about the Savior of man’s souls… Jesus Christ.
Once we become believers we have to continue what the Apostles started. We also have the commission to deliver the gospel of our Lord to a world that needs Him desperately. Jesus is coming soon. Don’t let anything distract you or derailed you from the commission. Jesus is depending on all of us... Tell someone today that Jesus loves them and that HE is the "ONLY" way to Heaven. (John 14:6, Acts 4:12, Romans 10:9-11, 13, 1 John 5:12)
Jesus Says: "HE WHO TESTIFIES TO THESE THINGS SAYS, “ YES, I AM COMING SOON”. AMEN. COME, LORD JESUS. THE GRACE OF THE LORD JESUS BE WITH GOD’S PEOPLE. AMEN. (Revelation 22:20-21) Amen!
GOD BLESS YOU ALL NOW AND ALWAYS
YOUR FRIEND,
VICKY RIVERA
Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age. (Matthew 28:18-20)
Note: GOD at times will ask us to do something for Him and there are times, we don’t do it or get it right the first time around, but don’t get discouraged. We may fall down… But that does not mean we have to stay down. Get up in Jesus name and start again!
Peter denied his Lord. (Matthew 26:69-75) When, he had said, “Even if I have to die with you. I will never disown you.” (Matthew 26:35) Could you imagine how he must have felt? When he did the very thing he swore he would NOT do… Could you imagine the disappointment he must have felt in himself? Peter must have thought he was not the right man for the job, since he just had denied his Lord. (Matthew 26:34, 26:75, Mark 14:30, 14:72, Luke 22:34, 22:61)
The Lord told Peter …” And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will built my church…(Matthew 16:18) What God says, you will be and what you will do, will come to pass. (The Lord has done what he planned; he has fulfilled his word, which he decreed long ago.)- Lamentations 2:17.
Peter must have thought, after denying Jesus... I'm not cut out for this... So he went back to his old occupation (He was a Fisherman) until Jesus came and reminded him of his calling... What Peter was truly meant to do in this world! (Matthew 16:18, John 21:2-17)
Jesus asks Peter this: "Simon, son of John, do you truly love me more than these?” (Meaning do you love this job/occupation more than me?) “Yes Lord,” he said, you know that I love you. “Jesus said, “Feed my lambs. ”Again Jesus said, “Simon son of John, do you truly love me?” He answered, Yes, Lord, you know that I love you. ”Jesus said, “Take care of my sheep. ”The third time he said to him, “Simon son of John, do you love me? Peter was hurt because Jesus asked him the third time, “Do you love Me?” He said, “Lord, you know all things, you know that I love you.” Jesus said, “Feed my sheep. (John 21:15-17)
Note: I’m so glad that the Lord came to get Peter back on track and to remind him of what he was called to do (To start His Church). Peter got back on track and in the book of Acts we see him in action… Full of confidence and ready to save souls for the Kingdom of God. (Acts 2:14-41) Three thousand people got saved because of his obedience to the Lord. WOW!
We have all had some road blocks in our lives and those road blocks can sometimes cause us to think and question… Maybe this is not what I’m supposed to be doing. Did I hear God correctly?
My friends, a mistake, oppositions, does not mean God didn’t call you and it definitely does not mean that we just stop and give up! The Lord says, “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go." GOD is always with us… Why are you discouraged then? (Joshua 1:9, Matthew 28:18-20)
The Apostles were given a task by the Lord Jesus Christ to make disciples of all nations, to baptize, and to teach people to obey everything that He taught them. (Matthew 28:20) Going through the New Testament, we can see they did just that. Nothing was going to stop these men from carrying out the Lords commands. Not prison, beatings, death, or exile. What a wonderful thing that is … When the Lord can count on us to do His will. Obedience to the Lord Jesus blesses you and others too.
Nothing was going to stop these mighty men of God from making disciples of all men and teaching the good news of the gospel of Jesus Christ. Later in the book of Acts, the high priest and his associates gave orders to the apostles not to teach in the name of Jesus. I love Peter’s and the other apostle’s response. “We must obey God rather then men! (Acts 5:29) "When they would not obey the teachers of the law, they were beaten and released. They (The Apostles) left rejoicing because they believed they suffer disgrace for the Name (Jesus Name).- Acts 5:40-41. I am sure they were holding on to God’s promise when they endured the beatings. (“Blesses are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven”)- Matthew 5:10
Nothing was going to stop them. They knew the Lord Jesus was depending on them to deliver the gospel to a dying and hurting world, it was very important for them to deliver the message. God needed them to tell people...
TELL PEOPLE WHAT?
To tell them this: “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him. Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because he has not believed in the name of God’s one and only Son. (John 3:16-18)
The Bible says:
“For the Son of Man (Jesus Christ) came to seek and to save what was lost." (Luke 19:10)
The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance. (2 Peter 3:9)
Note: Friends the message is still urgent, the Lord Jesus is still extending His invitation to everyone who would believe in Him. Salvation is "FREE". Don’t let Him pass you by… Don't delay... Jesus is returning very soon!
Thank the Lord Almighty that the Apostles obeyed the call. Their obedience to the Lord has saved millions of souls around the world and many more are still coming to the Kingdom of God each day. This gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ has been translated into different languages. PRAISE THE LORD!
The Lord Jesus said: And the gospel must first be preached to all nations. (Mark 13:10) I believe we are living in the last days. He (Jesus Christ) is coming soon. Live your life like the Lord commands, obey Him and most important tell others about the Savior of man’s souls… Jesus Christ.
Once we become believers we have to continue what the Apostles started. We also have the commission to deliver the gospel of our Lord to a world that needs Him desperately. Jesus is coming soon. Don’t let anything distract you or derailed you from the commission. Jesus is depending on all of us... Tell someone today that Jesus loves them and that HE is the "ONLY" way to Heaven. (John 14:6, Acts 4:12, Romans 10:9-11, 13, 1 John 5:12)
Jesus Says: "HE WHO TESTIFIES TO THESE THINGS SAYS, “ YES, I AM COMING SOON”. AMEN. COME, LORD JESUS. THE GRACE OF THE LORD JESUS BE WITH GOD’S PEOPLE. AMEN. (Revelation 22:20-21) Amen!
GOD BLESS YOU ALL NOW AND ALWAYS
YOUR FRIEND,
VICKY RIVERA
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
WHAT HAVE YOU DONE FOR HIM LATELY?
WHAT HAVE YOU DONE FOR HIM LATELY?
“I tell you the truth,” he (Jesus) said, “this poor widow has put in more than ALL the others. All these people gave their gifts out of their wealth; BUT she out of her poverty PUT in all she had to live on.” (Luke 21:3-4)-NIV
God has taught his children to always share with those who don’t have… “Suppose a brother or sister is without clothes and daily food. If one of you says to him, "Go, I wish you well; keep warm and well fed," but does nothing about his physical needs, what good is it? (James 2:15-16) When we give/share with those who are in need we will be fulfilling the commandment that the Lord gave to us… “Love one another” (John 13:34) Giving to the poor is like we are giving to God himself.
Note: Before the Israelites leftEgypt
“If any household is too small for a whole lamb, they must share one with their nearest neighbor, having taken into account the number of people there are.” (Exodus 12:4)
In the book of Deuteronomy 15:7-11 it says:
“If there is a poor man among your brothers in any of the towns of the land that the Lord your God is giving you, do not be hardhearted or tightfisted toward your poor brother. Rather be openhanded and freely lend him whatever he needs.”
“Be careful not to harbor this wicked thought: “The seventh year, the year for canceling debts, is near,” so that you do not show ill will toward your needy brother and give him nothing. He may then appeal to the Lord against you, and you will be found guilty of sin. GIVE generously to him and DO so WITHOUT a grudging heart; (Obedience to our God will ALWAYS bring BLESSINGS!! Watch this next verse…) “THEN because of this the Lord your God WILL bless you in ALL your work and in EVERYTHING you put your hand to. (You Obey… And GOD will bless)
“I tell you the truth,” he (Jesus) said, “this poor widow has put in more than ALL the others. All these people gave their gifts out of their wealth; BUT she out of her poverty PUT in all she had to live on.” (Luke 21:3-4)-NIV
God has taught his children to always share with those who don’t have… “Suppose a brother or sister is without clothes and daily food. If one of you says to him, "Go, I wish you well; keep warm and well fed," but does nothing about his physical needs, what good is it? (James 2:15-16) When we give/share with those who are in need we will be fulfilling the commandment that the Lord gave to us… “Love one another” (John 13:34) Giving to the poor is like we are giving to God himself.
Note: Before the Israelites left
“If any household is too small for a whole lamb, they must share one with their nearest neighbor, having taken into account the number of people there are.” (Exodus 12:4)
In the book of Deuteronomy 15:7-11 it says:
“If there is a poor man among your brothers in any of the towns of the land that the Lord your God is giving you, do not be hardhearted or tightfisted toward your poor brother. Rather be openhanded and freely lend him whatever he needs.”
“Be careful not to harbor this wicked thought: “The seventh year, the year for canceling debts, is near,” so that you do not show ill will toward your needy brother and give him nothing. He may then appeal to the Lord against you, and you will be found guilty of sin. GIVE generously to him and DO so WITHOUT a grudging heart; (Obedience to our God will ALWAYS bring BLESSINGS!! Watch this next verse…) “THEN because of this the Lord your God WILL bless you in ALL your work and in EVERYTHING you put your hand to. (You Obey… And GOD will bless)
“There will always be poor people in
the land. Therefore
I command you to be openhanded toward your brothers and toward the poor and needy
in your land.”
Note: Every human being on this planet has been created in the image of God… “Let us make man in our image…” (Genesis 1:26) We may have a different tents/ a different look on the outside but we are all made in the likeness of our Creator in the inside.
Note: Every human being on this planet has been created in the image of God… “Let us make man in our image…” (Genesis 1:26) We may have a different tents/ a different look on the outside but we are all made in the likeness of our Creator in the inside.
The commandment is “To love your neighbor as yourself”. If we really understood the word of God and what really pleases Him… Then we would understand, that when you give and help people who are in need, it is like you are giving to the Lord Jesus Himself. You would see the God that created you and me in them. Let’s show those in need what real love feels like… Let’s show them that the faith we have is not a blind faith, but a genuine one that’s ready to be put INTO action. The Bible says “God is love”… “Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in him. And he has given us this command: Whoever loves God must also love his brother. (1 John 4:16, 21)
In the book of Mark 12:28-31 the Lord was asked, “Of all the commandments, which is the most important?”
“The MOST important one” answered Jesus, “is this: ‘Hear, O
In the book of 1 King 17:10-16 Elijah was send to a widow in Zarephath … In this story you will see the faithfulness of God to those who take Him at His word…
“So he (Elijah the prophet) went to Zarephath. When he came to the town gate, a widow was there gathering sticks. He called to her and asked, “Would you bring me a little water in a jar so I may have a drink? As she was going to get it, he called, and bring me, please, a piece of bread. As surely as the Lord your God lives,” she replied, “I don’t have any bread – only a handful of flour in a jar and a little oil in a jug. I am gathering a few sticks to take home and make a meal for myself and my son that we may eat it – and die.”
“Elijah said to her, “Don’t be afraid. Go home and do as you have said. (Watch this…something has to be done FIRST, in the part of this widow…) But first make a small cake of bread for me, and then make something for yourself and your son. For this is what the Lord, the God of Israel, says: ‘The jar of flour will not be used up and the jug of oil will not run dry until the day the Lord gives rain on the land. She went away and did as Elijah had told her. So there was food every day for Elijah and for the woman and her family. (The word of the Lord fulfilled in this next verse… Don’t miss it!!) “FOR” the JAR of flour was NOT used up and the JUG of oil DID NOT run dry, in keeping with the word of the Lord spoken by Elijah.”
Note: This widow obeyed the word of the Lord spoken through the prophet Elijah and that obedience brought her and her family great blessings… The jar of flour was NOT used up and the jug of oil DID NOT run dry… Hallelujah!! The Lord is FAITHFUL but we MUST learn to trust, believe and obey Him FIRST, just like this widow did.
Let me give you another biblical example… In the book of Job, we read that God is very proud of his servant Job and He asked Satan if he had notice how faithful Job was to GOD...
“Then the Lord said to Satan, “Have you considered my servant Job? There is no one on earth like him; he is blameless and upright, a man who fears God and shuns evil.” (Job 1:8)
Note: In chapter 31:1-40 you will read: Why God is so proud of Job. Job is telling his friends of the kind of life that he lived … Walking in the fear of the Lord and taking care of the poor and their needs. Job understood that the same God that created him also created the rest of mankind and he knew that not taking care of the poor would be a sin against God. (Deuteronomy 15:11)
Let me give you some of these verses in this chapter… (Chapter 31, verses 16-23)
Job says this…“IF I have denied the desires of the poor or let the eyes of the widow grow weary, IF I have KEPT my bread to myself NOT sharing it with the fatherless – but from my youth I reared him as would a father, and from my birth I guided the widow- “ IF I have seen ANYONE perishing for lack of clothing, or a needy man without a garment, and his heart did not bless me for warming him with the fleece from my sheep, IF I raised my hand against the fatherless, knowing that I had influence in the court, then let my arm fall from the shoulder, let it be broken off at the joint. (Watch what this servant of GOD says, Don’t Miss It!!!) FOR I dreaded DESTRUCTION from GOD, and FOR fear of HIS splendor I could NOT do such things. ”
Note: The Bible says that Job was a very wealthy man and that God blessed everything he had. Why is this? Because Job loved God, he shuns evil and Job did not keep his blessings from God to himself … He shared it with those who had needs. God could count on Job to take care of the poor people in the land.
In the near future the Lord will separate groups of people to two sides: The Right side will be for the sheep (the righteous) and the Left side will be for the goats (the wicked). And these are the things that the Lord will say to each group…
“Then the King will say to those on his right (The righteous, those who did the Fathers will…), ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.’
(Watch This… Don’t Miss It!!!)… “Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? When did we see you a stranger and invite you in or needing clothes and clothe you? When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?’ The King will reply, ‘I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.’
“Then he will say to those on his left (The wicked, Those who did not do the Fathers will), Depart from me, you who are cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels. For I was hungry and you gave me nothing to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me nothing to drink, I was a stranger and you did not invite me in, I needed clothes and you did not clothe me, I was sick and in prison and you did not look after me.’
“They also will answer, Lord, when did we see you hungry or thirsty or a stranger or needing clothes or sick or in prison, and did not help you?’
(Watch This… Don’t Miss It!!!) “ He will reply, I tell you the truth, whatever YOU did not do for one of the least of these, you DID NOT do FOR me.’ THEN they will GO away to eternal punishment, BUT the righteous to ETERNAL life.” (Matthew 25:31-46)
Note: I believe we will see the widow of Zarephath, Elijah, Job, the disciples and many others standing on the right side along with all those that through out the Holy Scriptures have grasped the meaning of the command of the Lord… “Love your neighbor as yourself ”
Question: Which group of people do you want to be placed into? If you choose to be on the right with the sheep, you have to obey the Lord in taking care of the poor and following the Lord’s commands wholeheartedly. Only then will you be standing with the righteous… Standing right next to the widow of Zarephath, Job, Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and the many others through out our history that have obeyed and followed the Lord and did not deviate from God’s commands.
The title of this teaching is: “What have you done for Him (Jesus) lately?” My prayer and hope is that we all choose to be faithful to the Lord in taking care of the poor and their needs. By carrying out our Lord’s commands… We will be blessed in this life and the next one to come! The Lord has given us this promise if we obey Him … “THEN because of this the Lord your God will bless you in all your work and in everything you put your hand to. (Deuteronomy 15:10) Remember this… “God is not a man, that he should lie, nor a son of man, that he should change his mind. Does he speak and then not act? Does he promise and not fulfill?” (Numbers 23:19) God will always keep His word but we have to trust, believe and obey Him in ALL things, FIRST.
James 2:17 says: “…FAITH by itself, if it NOT accompanied by ACTION, is DEAD.”
Note: Some may feel they don’t have anything to give. We have to follow and learn from the examples of the widow of Luke 21:3-4 and the widow that fed the prophet Elijah in 1 Kings 17:7-16. God will show us what we can give… We just need to keep our eyes and ears open for the many opportunities that we can bless our fellow man with.
This is not biblical, but I want to mention it as an example that we all have something to give. You may all remember the Christmas song “The Drummer Boy”, he didn’t have expensive gifs to give to the new born King but he gave what he did have, his drums. All he could offer was his gift of music, and so he played his music for the new born King.
The economy in these troubling times has left many of us with a heavy financial burden, but money is not the only thing we have to offer. You may have canned goods that you can donate to the shelters, or clothes that you haven’t worn in a long time that you could give to someone else who desperately needs them. Some can give their time in helping adults and children in illiteracy programs, volunteer at a shelter, or be a big brother or sister and mentor the young, etc. We all have something that we can give/share with those that are in need and in this way we will be fulfilling the command of the Lord… “Love your neighbor as yourself” (Mark 12:31)
GOD BLESS YOU ALL NOW AND ALWAYS
YOUR FRIEND,
VICKY RIVERA
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