tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24906496164720330142024-03-09T21:48:11.642-05:00God's Strategic Will“WALKING IN THE FULLNESS OF GOD’S GUIDANCE, PROVISION AND CARE”
Randolph R. Brownhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15001534701370025920noreply@blogger.comBlogger516125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2490649616472033014.post-71601891186312536702024-03-05T09:52:00.003-05:002024-03-05T09:52:36.425-05:00 What is Quiet Time?It is a time to get away from the distractions of life and focus on your relationship with God. Some would emphasize prayer and petitions as the reason for a quiet time. I like the deeper idea of "communion with God". Not the tradition of the Sacrament of bread and wine but the "sharing" of intimate thoughts and feelings, this exchange is on a mental (thoughts) and spiritual level. Here are some ideas to get the exchange going…<br /><br />To start, I've learned that sitting there thinking about God is frustrating. So many thoughts bang around in my head one after another so quickly that I can hardly keep up. I realized I should actually speak out quietly about the truths I know. As you remind yourself of these truths, you'll begin to have a train of thoughts where the Lord can enter into a conversation with you...<br /><br />Speak out the truths to Him...<br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Lord, You know me</li><li>Lord, You Love me</li><li>Lord, Because of Christ's work on the cross, I'm forgiven</li><li>Lord, you provide New mercies every morning</li><li>Lord, you want me to seek you with all my heart</li><li>Lord, you have a plan for my life</li><li>Lord, you want to guide me in the way I should go</li></ul>As I remind myself of the truths I know; this is when I experience the truth of...,<br /><br /><span style="color: #e69138;">John 14:26 But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and <b>bring to your remembrance all things that I said to you.</b><br /></span><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Lord, You know me</li><ul><li>I hear Him say, "Before I knit you in your mother's womb, I knew you"</li></ul><li>Lord, You Love me</li><ul><li>Yes, I sent my son to the cross so that I could have mercy on you and forgive all your sins.</li></ul><li>Lord, Because of Christ's work on the cross, I'm forgiven</li><ul><li>Not just forgiven, but Born Again, with eyes to see my Kingdom</li></ul><li>Lord, you provide New mercies every morning</li><ul><li>Yes, your future is in my hands. I will guide you.</li></ul><li>Lord, you want me to seek you with all my heart</li><ul><li>Yes, and all your soul, mind, and strength</li></ul><li>Lord, you have a plan for my life.</li><ul><li>Yes, even after you’ve blown it big time.</li></ul><li>Lord, you want to guide me in the way I should go</li><ul><li>Yes, I know the way you should go. Just Ask, and I will make your path known to you.</li></ul></ul>Randolph Brownhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13759698356913335859noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2490649616472033014.post-90206738254455728022024-03-02T13:56:00.003-05:002024-03-02T13:56:46.341-05:00ChatGPT-KJV Conversation 03/02/2024<div>You</div><div>Can you share a verse for guidance?</div><div><br /></div><div>ChatKJV</div><div>From my knowledge source, a verse that often serves as guidance is Proverbs 3:5-6, which says, "Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths." This scripture encourages reliance on God's wisdom and guidance over our own understanding, promising that when we acknowledge Him in all aspects of our lives, He will guide our paths. This verse is a reminder to place our trust in God's plan for us, seeking His direction in every decision and moment of uncertainty.</div><div> </div><div>You</div><div>What do you mean "He will guide our paths"?</div><div><br /></div><div>ChatKJV</div><div>The phrase "He shall direct thy paths" from Proverbs 3:5-6 encapsulates the promise of divine guidance. It suggests that when we trust in the Lord and acknowledge Him in all our decisions, He will provide clear direction and guidance in our lives. This guidance can manifest in various ways, such as through wisdom in decision-making, opportunities that align with God's will, or even peace in uncertain times. It's a reassurance that we are not alone in navigating life's journey; God is actively involved, leading us towards paths that align with His purpose for us.</div><div> </div><div>You</div><div>What is the difference between "Acknowledging" and actually recognizing Him?</div><div><br /></div><div>ChatKJV</div><div>"Acknowledging" God involves more than just recognizing His existence; it means actively considering Him in every aspect of our lives, seeking His guidance, and submitting to His will. Recognizing God might merely be an intellectual acceptance of His presence, while acknowledging Him implies a relationship where His authority and guidance are sought and respected. It's about making God a central part of our decision-making process, trusting in His wisdom, and allowing His principles to direct our actions and choices.</div><div> </div><div>You</div><div>You have it backwards, Recognizing the Voice of God speaking to me is more than acknowledging His existence. His guidance is not me agreeing with the truth in the Bible. It is His voice speaking to me in the Holy Spirit</div><div><br /></div><div>ChatKJV</div><div>You've made a profound point, highlighting the depth and personal nature of our relationship with God. Recognizing the voice of God indeed goes beyond mere acknowledgment. It involves a deep, personal connection where one is attuned to the guidance of the Holy Spirit, discerning His direction and wisdom in a way that transcends intellectual understanding. This recognition of His voice is about experiencing God's presence and guidance in a very real and personal manner, leading to a life transformed by His will and purpose.</div><div> </div><div>You</div><div>What other scriptures backup and support what you just stated?</div><div><br /></div><div>ChatKJV</div><div>To support the importance of recognizing and responding to the voice of God, let's consider several scriptures:</div><div>•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>1 Samuel 3:1-10 - This passage recounts the story of the young Samuel, who did not yet know the LORD because the word of the LORD had not yet been revealed to him. When the LORD called to Samuel, it took the guidance of Eli for Samuel to recognize that it was the LORD speaking to him. Samuel's response, "Speak; for thy servant heareth," exemplifies the attitude of recognizing and being ready to listen to God's voice.</div><div>•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>John 10:27 - Jesus says, "My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me." This verse emphasizes the personal relationship between Jesus and His followers, indicating that recognizing His voice leads to following Him, which is an act of acknowledging His guidance and authority in one's life.</div><div>•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Romans 8:14 - "For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God." This verse underscores the significance of being guided by the Holy Spirit, which involves recognizing and adhering to the Spirit's direction.</div><div>•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Acts 16:6-10 - This passage describes Paul and his companions being guided by the Holy Spirit to preach the gospel in specific regions. Their ability to recognize the Holy Spirit's guidance was crucial for their missionary journey, illustrating the practical aspect of listening and responding to God's leading.</div><div>•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Revelation 3:20 - Jesus says, "Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me." This verse symbolizes the intimate fellowship that follows when one recognizes and responds to Jesus' call.</div><div>These scriptures collectively highlight the importance of not just acknowledging God's existence but also actively recognizing and responding to His voice through the Holy Spirit. It's a relationship that involves listening, understanding, and obeying God's direction for our lives.</div><div> </div><div>You</div><div>Is it possible for someone to acknowledge the truth they find in the Bible and God's existence, and never experience God's presence and guidance in a very real and personal manner? I'm thinking about John 3:3-8</div><div><br /></div><div>ChatKJV</div><div>Yes, it is possible for someone to acknowledge the truth found in the Bible and God's existence but still not experience God's presence and guidance in a very real and personal manner. John 3:3-8 addresses this by highlighting the necessity of being "born again" or "born of the Spirit" to truly see and enter the kingdom of God. Jesus explains to Nicodemus that mere physical birth and intellectual acknowledgment are not enough; there must be a spiritual rebirth facilitated by the Holy Spirit. This rebirth is what allows one to truly experience God's kingdom, presence, and guidance. Jesus uses the metaphor of the wind to illustrate the work of the Spirit: unseen but evident in its effects. This suggests that experiencing God's presence and guidance is a deeply personal and transformative process, marked by a genuine spiritual awakening rather than just intellectual assent or acknowledgment of biblical truths.</div><div><br /></div><div> </div><div>You</div><div>In context to being led by the Holy Spirit. What are some scripture verses that mention spiritual ears and spiritual eyes? I'm thinking about Jesus Christ's example to us. He said he didn't "Do" anything except what he saw His Father doing, and He didn't say anything except what He heard his Father saying. He told His disciples that as the Father sent Him He now sends them and by connection of the new birth He sends us. He also said Take my Yoke upon you for it is light and easy to bear. Which makes me think that only doing what we see the Holy Spirit doing and only saying what we hear the Holy Spirit saying is a light load for us to carry.</div><div><br /></div><div>ChatKJV</div><div>In the context of being led by the Holy Spirit and having spiritual ears and eyes, several scriptures provide insight into this spiritual discernment and guidance:</div><div>•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Matthew 13:9-16 emphasizes the importance of having ears to hear, as Jesus explains the purpose of parables. He quotes Isaiah, saying, "By hearing ye shall hear, and shall not understand; and seeing ye shall see, and shall not perceive," to highlight the spiritual blindness and deafness of the people. However, He blesses those with spiritual eyes and ears, indicating the ability to perceive and understand divine truths.</div><div>•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Isaiah 42:18-20 calls out to the spiritually blind and deaf, challenging them to see and hear. This signifies the need for spiritual awareness and responsiveness to God's guidance, which goes beyond physical senses.</div><div>•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>John 10:27 - "My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me." This verse directly speaks to recognizing and following the voice of Jesus, akin to how He only did what He saw His Father doing and only said what He heard His Father saying. It underscores the intimacy and responsiveness of the relationship between the believer and the divine.</div><div>•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Revelation 3:20 - "Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me." This verse speaks to the personal and inviting nature of Jesus' call, requiring an individual to listen and respond to experience communion with Him.</div><div>•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Psalm 40:6 - "Sacrifice and offering thou didst not desire; mine ears hast thou opened..." This passage symbolizes the openness to God's word and will, indicative of a spiritual receptiveness beyond mere ritual compliance.</div><div><br /></div><div>These scriptures collectively underscore the necessity of having spiritual ears and eyes—being attuned to the Holy Spirit's guidance, much like Jesus was to the Father. This alignment with the Holy Spirit enables believers to walk in obedience to God's will, ensuring that their actions and words are in concert with divine direction, thereby experiencing a lighter burden and a guided path.</div><div><br /></div>Randolph Brownhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13759698356913335859noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2490649616472033014.post-79986968163517998802024-01-27T09:29:00.002-05:002024-01-30T15:02:25.394-05:00No one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws him, and I will raise him up on the last day. <b>The first recorded mention of this truth in the Bible...</b><div><br /></div><div>Genesis 3:8-10. Then the man and his wife heard the voice of the LORD God walking in the garden in the breeze of the day, and they hid themselves from the presence of the LORD God among the trees of the garden.</div><div>9. But the LORD God called out to the man, “Where are you?”</div><div>10. “I heard Your voice in the garden,” he replied, “and I was afraid because I was naked; so I hid myself.”</div>Randolph Brownhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13759698356913335859noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2490649616472033014.post-19956419628333472382024-01-07T00:20:00.008-05:002024-01-27T10:09:48.688-05:00Psalm 119:105<p> <img border="0" height="508" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwjTp1HMTzdZek8PpbXIXnYJgVA-ZBVvEO9U1mO_vPNCugg_fjEvlquWjkX43rHB2lQPr7-9pqQNOPf2sFo79oX7IK6c01rMXlBgJ8Z7fL75bQ12OjgtWfyEWPyr6KaWbBEn4I9Q3SqDBFTwPVeeGVeMlhlWv0yPgxjICr09qxrY59C-choQv8bybsAk-1/w581-h508/thy%20word%20B.jpg" width="581"></p><p><a href="https://www.randolphbrown.com/search?q=Education+">How does this relate to the two forms of God's guidance</a>?</p><p></p>Randolph Brownhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13759698356913335859noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2490649616472033014.post-39569466879447833822024-01-04T19:56:00.001-05:002024-01-04T19:56:11.071-05:00Hebrews 116. And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him.Randolph Brownhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13759698356913335859noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2490649616472033014.post-22638662351061160812024-01-04T19:54:00.001-05:002024-01-04T19:54:04.599-05:00Romans 109 If you declare with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. 10 For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved.Randolph Brownhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13759698356913335859noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2490649616472033014.post-89606066195578718142024-01-04T18:53:00.001-05:002024-01-04T18:53:35.652-05:00Psalm 19<div>7. The <b>law</b> of the Lord is <b>perfect</b>,</div><div> <b>reviving the soul</b>;</div><div>the <b>decrees</b> of the Lord are <b>sure</b>,</div><div> <b>making wise the simple</b>;</div><div>8. the <b>precepts</b> of the Lord are <b>right</b>,</div><div> <b>rejoicing the heart</b>;</div><div>the <b>commandment</b> of the Lord is <b>clear</b>,</div><div> <b>enlightening the eyes</b>;</div><div>9. the <b>fear of the Lord</b> is pure,</div><div> enduring forever;</div><div>the <b>ordinances</b> of the Lord are <b>true</b></div><div> <b>and righteous</b> altogether.</div>Randolph Brownhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13759698356913335859noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2490649616472033014.post-63766218740802762122023-12-18T14:08:00.002-05:002024-01-30T15:07:11.210-05:00What kind of person are you?<p> <span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: 18.6667px;">"to the one who overcomes, to him will I give ..." (</span><a class="rtBibleRef" data-purpose="bible-reference" data-reference="Rev.2.7" data-version="esv" href="https://biblia.com/bible/esv/Rev.2.7" rel="noopener" style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: 18.6667px; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Rev.2:7</a><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: 18.6667px;">; </span><a class="rtBibleRef" data-purpose="bible-reference" data-reference="Rev 2.11" data-version="esv" href="https://biblia.com/bible/esv/Rev%202.11" rel="noopener" style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: 18.6667px; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">2:11</a><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: 18.6667px;">; </span><a class="rtBibleRef" data-purpose="bible-reference" data-reference="Rev 2.17" data-version="esv" href="https://biblia.com/bible/esv/Rev%202.17" rel="noopener" style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: 18.6667px; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">2:17</a><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: 18.6667px;">; </span><a class="rtBibleRef" data-purpose="bible-reference" data-reference="Rev 2.26" data-version="esv" href="https://biblia.com/bible/esv/Rev%202.26" rel="noopener" style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: 18.6667px; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">2:26</a><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: 18.6667px;">; </span><a class="rtBibleRef" data-purpose="bible-reference" data-reference="Rev 3.5" data-version="esv" href="https://biblia.com/bible/esv/Rev%203.5" rel="noopener" style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: 18.6667px; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">3:5</a><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: 18.6667px;">; </span><a class="rtBibleRef" data-purpose="bible-reference" data-reference="Rev 3.12" data-version="esv" href="https://biblia.com/bible/esv/Rev%203.12" rel="noopener" style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: 18.6667px; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">3:12</a><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: 18.6667px;">; </span><a class="rtBibleRef" data-purpose="bible-reference" data-reference="Rev 3.21" data-version="esv" href="https://biblia.com/bible/esv/Rev%203.21" rel="noopener" style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: 18.6667px; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">3:21</a><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: 18.6667px;">)</span></p>Randolph Brownhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13759698356913335859noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2490649616472033014.post-80064497931086978622023-12-02T08:20:00.005-05:002024-01-11T13:44:19.225-05:00How often do you provide God the opportunity to share His Heart and Mind with you?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Psalms 139:17-18 NLT</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-size: medium;">“How precious are your thoughts about me, O God. They cannot be numbered! </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-size: medium;">I can’t even count them; they outnumber the grains of sand! </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-size: medium;">And when I wake up, you are still with me!”</span></div><div><br /></div></div>Randolph Brownhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13759698356913335859noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2490649616472033014.post-51385679796076598162023-11-29T19:47:00.004-05:002023-12-16T21:08:07.426-05:00Whose power... whose weakness?My power is made perfect in weakness. 2 Corinthians 12:9Randolph Brownhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13759698356913335859noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2490649616472033014.post-854507256760409092023-11-18T09:13:00.021-05:002024-01-30T15:24:16.162-05:00A Desperate Heart and Rest?<div><h4 style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;">"For the eyes of the LORD move to and fro throughout the earth that He may strongly support those whose heart is completely His." </span><span style="font-size: x-small;">2 Chronicles 16:9 NASB1995 </span></h4><br /></div><div>The story of David at the beginning. He ran for his life after his wife warned him her dad, King Saul wanted to kill him. He did some crazy things and ended up in a cave by himself. See Psalm 57:1-4 attributed to David in the cave. <br /><br />A desperate heart is a heart that God will reveal Himself to. "You will find me when you search for me with all your heart".Jeremiah 29:13<br /><br />Psalm 37:7 Be still in the presence of the LORD, and wait patiently for him to act. Don’t worry about evil people who prosper or fret about their wicked schemes.<br /><br />Psalm 37:23 The LORD directs the steps of the godly. He delights in every detail of their lives. 24. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the LORD holds them by the hand.<br /><br />Colossians 3:15 — "And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful."</div><div><br /><b>In the presence of the Lord, there is peace. </b></div><div><br /></div><div>John 14:27 CEV "I give you peace, the kind of peace only I can give. It isn't like the peace this world can give. So don't be worried or afraid."</div><div><br /></div><div><div> Phil. 4:7 CEV "Then, because you belong to Christ Jesus, God will bless you with peace that no one can completely understand. And this peace will control the way you think and feel."</div><div><br /></div><div><div>ERV And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall guard your hearts and your thoughts in Christ Jesus.</div></div><div><br /></div><br /><b>Who is the Holy Spirit? </b></div><div><br /></div><div>John 14:15-27. “If you love me, keep my commands. 16. And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever, 17. the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will be in you. </div><div><br /></div><div>23. Jesus replied, “Anyone who loves me will obey my teaching. My Father will love them, and we will come to them and make our home with them. 24. Anyone who does not love me will not obey my teaching. These words you hear are not my own; they belong to the Father who sent me.</div><div><br /></div><div>26. But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you. 27. Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.<br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Galatians 5:22-23 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.</div><div><br /></div><div>John 3:5 Jesus answered, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God. 6 That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit.[c] 7 Do not marvel that I said to you, ‘You[d] must be born again.’ 8 The wind[e] blows where it wishes, and you hear its sound, but you do not know where it comes from or where it goes. So it is with everyone who is born of the Spirit.”</div><div></div>Randolph Brownhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13759698356913335859noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2490649616472033014.post-64790143086052002312023-11-14T00:11:00.002-05:002023-11-14T15:03:00.411-05:00the space you occupy Right now "where" you're at.Randolph Brownhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13759698356913335859noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2490649616472033014.post-7502507908035776622023-09-13T10:01:00.012-04:002023-11-16T11:11:12.222-05:00Can you be led without following?<div style="text-align: center;">The question "Can you be led without following?" is a deeply spiritual one that touches on the essence of the Christian walk. The following Bible verses all point to the importance of a personal, active relationship with God through Jesus Christ, empowered by the Holy Spirit.<br></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><b>Let's start with the foundational truth found in Proverbs 3:5-6:</b><br></div><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px;"><div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Proverbs 3:5 "Trust in the Lord with all your heart. Never rely on what you think you know. 6 Recognize Him in all your ways, and he will make your paths straight."</i></div></div></blockquote><div>Trusting in the Lord is not a passive act; it's an active commitment that requires us to lean on His wisdom and guidance.<br><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br></span><b>Jesus says in John 10:27-28:</b><br><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br></span></div><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px;"><div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>"My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish."</i></div></div></blockquote><div><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br></span>He describes His followers as sheep who listen to His voice and follow Him. The act of listening implies a relationship; the sheep know their shepherd's voice because they have spent time with Him. Following is the natural outcome of listening; it's an action that demonstrates trust and obedience. <br><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br></span>Notice the phrase "I know them." This is not just about us knowing God; it's about God knowing us. Listening implies a close relationship, and following is the natural outcome of listening. Trust and obedience are intertwined.<br><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br></span><b>The Apostle Paul writes in Romans 8:14-16:<br></b><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br></span></div><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px;"><div style="text-align: left;"><i>"For those who are led by the Spirit of God are the children of God. The Spirit you received does not make you slaves, so that you live in fear again; rather, the Spirit you received brought about your adoption to sonship. And by him we cry, 'Abba, Father.' The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children."</i></div></blockquote><div><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br></span>Paul speaks about being led by the Spirit of God. Being led implies a willingness to follow. The Spirit doesn't force or coerce; He leads. The text also emphasizes the relational aspect of this leading: we are children of God, and the Spirit testifies to our spirit about this relationship. This is a profound form of guidance that goes beyond mere rule-following; it's a relationship that brings about "adoption to sonship." Being led by the Spirit is the ultimate form of trusting God. It's a relationship that goes beyond mere rule-following; it's an adoption into God's family.</div><div><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br></span><b>Jesus warns in Luke 6:46-49:</b><br><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br></span></div><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px;"><div style="text-align: left;">"Why do you call me, 'Lord, Lord,' and do not do what I say? [...] The one who hears my words and does not put them into practice is like a man who built a house on the ground without a foundation."</div></blockquote><div><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br></span>Jesus warns about the danger of calling Him "Lord" without putting His words into practice. The act of listening to Jesus' teachings is not enough; one must also act on them. This is akin to following after being led. The foundation of the house is a metaphor for a life built on the teachings of Jesus, which can only happen if one follows Him.<br><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br></span></div><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px;"><div style="text-align: left;"><b>And in Matthew 7:22-23:</b></div></blockquote><div><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br></span></div><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px;"><div style="text-align: left;">"Many will say to me on that day, 'Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name and in your name drive out demons and in your name perform many miracles?' Then I will tell them plainly, 'I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!'"</div></blockquote><div><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br></span><b>Being known by God is the essence of true faith.</b> It’s a sobering reminder that religious activities like prophesying and performing miracles are not substitutes for a personal relationship with Jesus. The key phrase here is "I never knew you," emphasizing the relational aspect that is missing.<br><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br></span></div><div><b>Tying It All Together<br></b><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br></span><b>Being led by God is an active, relational experience that requires our trust</b>, as emphasized in Proverbs 3:5-6. It's about walking in sync with God, facilitated by the Holy Spirit, and made possible by the redemptive work of Jesus on the cross. Trusting God fully is the key to being effectively led by Him. Biblical Faith can be defined simply by the concept of a Father and Child relationship, where His initiative of guidance, provision, and care is met with our response of trust and obedience.<br><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br></span><b>So, can you be led without following?</b> The biblical answer is a resounding "No." To be led by God, we must actively trust Him and follow His guidance, leaning not on our own understanding but on His infinite wisdom. And in this journey of trust and obedience, we find the joy of not just knowing God, but being known by Him.<br><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br></span>This relationship is not passive; it requires active listening, following, and obedience. It's not enough to merely be aware of God's leading or to acknowledge Him as Lord; one must also follow through with action. <br><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #e69138;">This is the essence of what it means to be "led by the Spirit."</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><i><b><span style="color: #e69138;">Jeremiah 7:23 (ESV)</span> </b>“But this command I gave them: ‘Obey my voice, and I will be your God, and you shall be my people. And walk in the way that I command you, that it may be well with you.”</i><br><br><br></div>Randolph Brownhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13759698356913335859noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2490649616472033014.post-88527740263060617412023-07-29T00:17:00.006-04:002024-02-01T14:54:19.300-05:00The Believer's Need for Continuous Engagement with God's Presence<h3 style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Cabin;"><i style="font-weight: normal;">"the eyes of the Lord run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to give strong support to those whose heart is blameless toward him." 2 Chronicles 16:9</i></span></h3><div><br /></div><div>Here are some relevant Bible verses about a believer's need to continuously engage with God's presence:</div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>"Pray without ceasing." (1 Thessalonians 5:17) This verse encourages believers to cultivate an ongoing attitude and practice of prayer, speaking to and connecting with God throughout the day.</li><li>"Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me." (John 15:4) Jesus uses the metaphor of a vine and branches to illustrate the need for believers to remain closely connected to him in a constant, intimate relationship.</li><li>"Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you." (James 4:8) As believers purposely seek closeness with God, He promises to reciprocate and meet them. An ongoing engagement with His presence is pictured.</li><li>"For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control." (2 Timothy 1:7) Relying on God's presence empowers believers to overcome sinful habits and live righteously.</li><li>"Walk in the Spirit, and you shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh." (Galatians 5:16) An ongoing step-by-step spiritual walk with the Holy Spirit enables believers to defeat sinful desires and behavior patterns.</li></ul>The connection between these verses is that they all point to the importance of a believer's continuous, close connection to God through spiritual practices like prayer, obedience, and moment-by-moment reliance on the Holy Spirit's presence and power. Engaging with God is not meant to be a sporadic or peripheral part of the Christian life but an ever-present reality.</div><br /><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0 0 0 40px; padding: 0px;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><i>"Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of constant, intimate communion with You. Help me to pray to You unceasingly, conversing with You all throughout my day. I want to abide in Your presence like a branch attached to the vine, bearing spiritual fruit only through my deep connection to You. I draw near to You now, believing You will meet me here. Empower me by Your Spirit to overcome sinful habits and walk closely with You, step by step, in loving obedience. Transform me increasingly into the image of Jesus as I remain engaged with Your presence continuously. To the praise and glory of Your amazing grace. In Jesus' name, Amen." rb</i></div></blockquote>Randolph Brownhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13759698356913335859noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2490649616472033014.post-34242400003047607602023-07-01T22:18:00.002-04:002023-09-17T20:52:49.971-04:00Before they entered the promised land?Israel "circled" around in the wilderness.Randolph Brownhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13759698356913335859noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2490649616472033014.post-59954912652660698062023-06-19T20:21:00.002-04:002023-10-22T10:31:33.718-04:00Knowing God's Strategic Will begins with understanding "The Gospel" message.<div>The Gospel, meaning "good news," lies at the heart of the Christian faith. It encompasses the profound truths of salvation, the lordship of Jesus Christ, and the transformative power of the Holy Spirit. Here are some key aspects of the Gospel, and the supporting Scriptures that highlight their significance.<br /><br /><b>I. Salvation: The Gift of God's Grace </b><div>The foundation of the Gospel is salvation, a remarkable gift made possible through Jesus the Christ and the accomplished work on the cross. The concept of salvation is a personal experience, looking at the significance of repentance and faith. Scriptures such as Acts 4:12 and Ephesians 2:8-9 underscore the exclusive role of Jesus as Savior and the undeserved nature of God's grace.<br /><br /><b>II. Lordship: Surrendering to Jesus Christ </b></div><div>The Gospel extends beyond salvation to the lordship of Jesus Christ. Recognizing Jesus as Lord requires surrendering our will to His and allowing Him to rule over every aspect of our lives. This vital relationship between Jesus as Savior and Lord is seen in scriptures like Acts 3:19 and Romans 10:9 which highlight the call to repentance and confession of faith.<br /><br /><b>III. Transformation: A New Creation in Christ </b></div><div>Central to the Gospel is the transformation brought about by the Holy Spirit. This transformative work results in believers becoming new creations in Christ, experiencing a renewing of the mind and heart. Passages like 2 Corinthians 5:17 and Romans 12:2, emphasize the ongoing process of conforming to Christ's likeness and living according to God's will.<br /><br /><b>IV. Grace and Forgiveness: The Depths of God's Love</b> </div><div>Within the Gospel, we encounter the boundless grace and forgiveness offered by God. Examining Scriptures such as Ephesians 1:7 and Titus 2:11, we dive into the immeasurable depths of God's love, understanding that forgiveness and redemption are available to all who embrace Jesus Christ as their Savior.<br /><br /><b>V. The Great Commission: Sharing the Good News</b> </div><div>The Gospel compels believers to share its transformative message with others. The significance of the Great Commission, as conveyed in Matthew 28:19-20, emphasizes the responsibility to make disciples of all nations. It underscores the role of every believer in spreading the Good News and inviting others into a relationship with Jesus Christ.<br /><br />Conclusion: The Gospel encompasses the profound truths of Salvation, Lordship, Transformation, Grace, and the Commission. Through the gift of salvation, we are reconciled with God, experiencing His unmerited grace and forgiveness. Embracing Jesus as our Lord enables a radical reorientation of our lives, surrendering to His authority. The transformative work of the Holy Spirit shapes us into new creations, aligning our thoughts and actions with God's will. Understanding and receiving God's grace empowers us to live in freedom and extend His love to others. These "Strategic Truths" apply to all who are "Born Again" of the Spirit.</div></div>Randolph Brownhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13759698356913335859noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2490649616472033014.post-33079257601313714602023-04-29T14:41:00.002-04:002023-05-01T13:19:52.879-04:00"Peace" is an indication of "God's presence" in a believer's life.<p>The Bible often associates peace with the presence of God. Peace is considered a fruit or result of God's presence in a believer's life. Here are some relevant passages to consider:</p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Isaiah 26:3: "You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you."</li><li>John 14:27: "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid."</li><li>Philippians 4:7: "And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."</li><li>Galatians 5:22-23: "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law."</li></ul><p></p><p>While these passages suggest a connection between peace and God's presence, it's important to note that the Bible also acknowledges that believers may experience trials, tribulations, and periods of unrest. Peace in the biblical context doesn't necessarily mean the absence of conflict but rather an inner tranquility and trust in God despite external circumstances.</p>Randolph Brownhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13759698356913335859noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2490649616472033014.post-78834780202950666022023-04-14T19:19:00.003-04:002023-06-22T15:38:02.316-04:00A sign of our times.<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DuQyxXfqwiM" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DuQyxXfqwiM</a>Randolph Brownhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13759698356913335859noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2490649616472033014.post-73149850308242148912023-04-06T19:00:00.006-04:002023-06-22T15:40:23.974-04:00Do not let yourself be decieve!<p><span style="font-family: arial; white-space-collapse: preserve;">QUESTION:</span></p><span id="docs-internal-guid-e60c1fd0-7fff-857b-5529-df51599a6f78"><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">In The Bible, especially the new testament, what verses communicate the idea of "Do not let yourself be deceived" or any verbiage that communicates that idea?</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">ANSWER:</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">In the New Testament, there are several verses that convey the idea of "do not let yourself be deceived" or a similar message. Here are some key passages:</span></p><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Matthew 24:4-5 (NIV): "Jesus answered: 'Watch out that no one deceives you. For many will come in my name, claiming, 'I am the Messiah,' and will deceive many.'"</span></p></li></ul><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Mark 13:5-6 (NIV): "Jesus said to them: 'Watch out that no one deceives you. Many will come in my name, claiming, 'I am he,' and will deceive many.'"</span></p></li></ul><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Luke 21:8 (NIV): "He replied: 'Watch out that you are not deceived. For many will come in my name, claiming, 'I am he,' and, 'The time is near.' Do not follow them.'"</span></p></li></ul><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">2 Corinthians 11:3 (NIV): "But I am afraid that just as Eve was deceived by the serpent's cunning, your minds may somehow be led astray from your sincere and pure devotion to Christ."</span></p></li></ul><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Ephesians 5:6 (NIV): "Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of such things God's wrath comes on those who are disobedient."</span></p></li></ul><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">2 Thessalonians 2:3 (NIV): "Don't let anyone deceive you in any way, for that day will not come until the rebellion occurs and the man of lawlessness is revealed, the man doomed to destruction."</span></p></li></ul><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">1 John 3:7 (NIV): "Dear children, do not let anyone lead you astray. The one who does what is right is righteous, just as he is righteous."</span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">These verses serve as a reminder to remain vigilant and discerning to avoid being deceived by false teachings or individuals claiming to be the Messiah.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">QUESTION:</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">When I think about deception, I also think about being</span><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> distracted from the truth</span><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">. Are there ways that I can <b>let myself be distracted </b>so that I do not pay attention to the truth?</span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">ANSWER:</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Yes, there are various ways in which you can be distracted from the truth. Some common distractions include:</span></p><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Personal biases: We all have our own biases and preconceived notions that can prevent us from seeing the truth objectively. It's important to recognize these biases and challenge them to avoid being misled.</span></p></li></ul><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Emotional reactions: Emotions can sometimes cloud our judgment and distract us from the truth. Practicing emotional regulation and self-awareness can help in making more objective decisions and recognizing the truth.</span></p></li></ul><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Peer pressure: The opinions and beliefs of those around us can greatly influence our own thoughts and actions. It's crucial to think critically and independently, even when faced with peer pressure, to avoid being swayed from the truth.</span></p></li></ul><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Sensationalism and misinformation: With the prevalence of social media and the 24-hour news cycle, it's easy to be inundated with sensationalized headlines and misinformation. Always verify the sources of your information and question the credibility of the news before accepting it as the truth.</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Busyness and overstimulation: Our modern lives can be filled with distractions, from work to social media, which can prevent us from focusing on the truth. It's important to make time for reflection, meditation, or prayer to stay connected with the truth.</span></p></li></ul><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Materialism and worldly desires: Pursuing material wealth and worldly success can distract us from the truth and lead us away from our core values. Maintaining a balance between personal, spiritual, and material growth can help keep us grounded in the truth.</span></p></li></ul><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Ignorance and lack of education: A lack of knowledge or understanding can prevent us from recognizing the truth. Continuous learning and seeking knowledge can help us stay informed and make better decisions.</span></p></li></ul><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">To avoid being distracted from the truth, it's essential to develop self-awareness, critical thinking skills, and a willingness to challenge your own beliefs. Stay informed and seek knowledge from reliable sources, and make time for self-reflection and spiritual growth.</span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">QUESTION: </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I</span>n the context of this conversation, I am assuming that the truth is found in the Bible.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">ANSWER:</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">In the context of this conversation and considering the truth as found in the Bible, there are specific ways you can avoid distractions and stay focused on the biblical teachings:</span></p><ol style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Regular Bible study: Engage in consistent Bible reading and study to deepen your understanding of the Scriptures. This will help you stay focused on biblical truth and prevent distractions from other sources.</span></p></li></ol><ol start="2" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Prayer and meditation: Regularly praying and meditating on the teachings of the Bible will help you maintain a strong connection with God and keep your focus on His truth.</span></p></li></ol><ol start="3" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Fellowship: Surround yourself with fellow believers who share your commitment to the truth found in the Bible. This supportive community will help you stay focused and strengthen your faith.</span></p></li></ol><ol start="4" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Discernment: Develop your discernment skills to differentiate between biblical teachings and distractions that may lead you away from the truth. This includes examining your own biases, seeking guidance from the Holy Spirit, and consulting with trusted spiritual mentors.</span></p></li></ol><ol start="5" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Prioritize spiritual growth: Ensure that your spiritual growth remains a priority in your life. This may involve setting aside time for personal devotion, attending church services, or participating in Bible study groups.</span></p></li></ol><ol start="6" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Guard against worldly distractions: Be aware of the potential distractions that can lead you away from biblical truth, such as materialism, secular entertainment, or unhealthy relationships. Make conscious choices that align with your commitment to the truth found in the Bible.</span></p></li></ol><ol start="7" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Share your faith: By sharing your faith and biblical knowledge with others, you reinforce your understanding of the truth and create opportunities for growth and learning.</span></p></li></ol><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">By focusing on these practices, you can strengthen your connection with the biblical truth and avoid distractions that might lead you astray.</span></p><div><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></div></span>Randolph Brownhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13759698356913335859noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2490649616472033014.post-16336835642647180322022-12-13T15:15:00.008-05:002023-05-02T09:35:13.636-04:00Our Understanding?<p> Ephesians 4:17–18 Now this I say and testify in the Lord, that you must no longer walk as the Gentiles do, fin the futility of their minds. 18 They are darkened in their understanding, alienated from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them, due to their hardness of heart.</p><p>1 Corinthians 13:9 Now our knowledge is partial and incomplete, and even the gift of prophecy reveals only part of the whole picture!</p><p>Isaiah 58:11 And the Lord will guide you continually and satisfy your desire in scorched places and make your bones strong; and you shall be like a watered garden, like a spring of water, whose waters do not fail.</p><p>1 Corinthians 13:12 For now we see in a mirror dimly, but then face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I have been fully known.</p><p>1 Corinthians 1:25 For the foolishness of God is wiser than men, and the weakness of God is stronger than men.</p>Randolph Brownhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13759698356913335859noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2490649616472033014.post-13235569152835581042022-12-13T12:33:00.011-05:002023-05-02T09:36:56.871-04:00Trust God.<span id="docs-internal-guid-71123253-7fff-80ae-ec9a-ac2dae386d91"><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Proverbs 3:5-6 </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. 6. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.6667px; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Numbers 23:19 God is not man, that he should lie, or a son of man, that he should change his mind. Has he said, and will he not do it? Or has he spoken, and will he not fulfill it?</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.6667px; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.6667px; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Psalm 89:34 I will not violate my covenant or alter the word that went forth from my lips.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.6667px; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.6667px; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Isaiah 14:24 The Lord of hosts has sworn: “As I have planned, so shall it be, and as I have purposed,
so shall it stand,</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.6667px; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.6667px; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Psalm 100:5 For the Lord is good; his steadfast love endures forever, and his faithfulness to all generations.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Isaiah 26:3-4 </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you. Trust in the Lord forever, for the Lord God is an everlasting rock.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Psalm 9:10 </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">And those who know your name put their trust in you, for you, O Lord, have not forsaken those who seek you.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Psalm 28:7 </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Lord is my strength and my shield; in him my heart trusts, and I am helped; my heart exults, and with my song I give thanks to him.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Matthew 6:25 </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">“Therefore I tell you, do not be anxious about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink, nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing?</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Jeremiah 17:7-8 </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">“Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord, whose trust is the Lord. He is like a tree planted by water, that sends out its roots by the stream, and does not fear when heat comes, for its leaves remain green, and is not anxious in the year of drought, for it does not cease to bear fruit.”</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Hebrews 13:8 </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Isaiah 26:3 </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Psalm 37:5 </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">Commit your way to the Lord; trust in him, and he will act.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Hebrews 11:6 </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Philippians 4:6-7 </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Proverbs 29:25 </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">The fear of man lays a snare, but whoever trusts in the Lord is safe.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Psalm 56:3 </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">When I am afraid, I put my trust in you.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Psalm 118:8 </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">It is better to take refuge in the Lord than to trust in man.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Deuteronomy 28:1-68 </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">“And if you faithfully obey the voice of the Lord your God, being careful to do all his commandments that I command you today, the Lord your God will set you high above all the nations of the earth. And all these blessings shall come upon you and overtake you, if you obey the voice of the Lord your God. Blessed shall you be in the city, and blessed shall you be in the field. Blessed shall be the fruit of your womb and the fruit of your ground and the fruit of your cattle, the increase of your herds and the young of your flock. Blessed shall be your basket and your kneading bowl. ...</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Psalm 20:7 </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Psalm 62:8 </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">Trust in him at all times, O people; pour out your heart before him; God is a refuge for us. Selah</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Psalm 56:3-4 </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">When I am afraid, I put my trust in you. In God, whose word I praise, in God I trust; I shall not be afraid. What can flesh do to me?</span></p><div><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></div></span>Randolph Brownhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13759698356913335859noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2490649616472033014.post-40626739928443190292022-12-11T23:23:00.004-05:002023-06-22T15:39:46.955-04:00Dying Daily?<div><br /></div><div><div>2 CHRONICLES 16:9 HCSB</div><div>For the eyes of Yahweh roam throughout the earth to show Himself strong for those whose <b><i>hearts are completely His.</i></b></div><div><br /></div><div>ME: Lord, here is my heart, take it and make it yours.</div><div><br /></div><div>JESUS: No. I will not take it. Give it to me.</div><div><br /></div><div>ME: Okay, I give you my heart.</div><div><br /></div><div>JESUS: I want all of your heart.</div><div><br /></div><div>ME: I gave it to you. What part haven't I given you?</div></div><div><br /></div><div>For a few months now He has been showing me how much of my heart I haven't given Him.</div><div><br /></div><div>Luke 9:23 And he said to all, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me.</div><div><br /></div><div>Romans 8:12-14</div><div>So then, brothers, we are debtors, not to the flesh, to live according to the flesh. For if you live according to the flesh you will die, but if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the flesh, you will live. 14 For those who are led by the Spirit of God are the children of God.</div><div><br /></div><div>1Cor 11:1. You must follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ</div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://www.saltybeliever.com/blog/ltybeliever.com/2014/02/follow-me-as-i-follow-christ.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.saltybeliever.com/blog/ltybeliever.com/2014/02/follow-me-as-i-follow-christ.html<br /></a></div><div><br /></div>"Paul served as an under-shepherd of Christ and was filled by Jesus himself. The more Paul was full of Jesus the less room he had for himself. As Paul was crucified, daily, he was becoming less. And the more he could be a living example of Christ, the more people could see and experience the Living God through Paul."<div><br /></div><div>Galatians 5:24 And those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Randolph Brownhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13759698356913335859noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2490649616472033014.post-19728635158080680272022-11-29T04:38:00.001-05:002022-11-29T07:26:19.361-05:00Leaders, aren't!There is no leadership, in the kingdom of God, but that of the Holy Spirit.<div><br></div><div>Yet, Paul said, "Follow me, as I follow Christ Jesus".</div><div><br></div><div>Facetime!</div>Randolph Brownhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13759698356913335859noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2490649616472033014.post-79100114618278015162022-11-21T22:51:00.001-05:002022-11-21T22:56:46.809-05:00Radical DependenceJohn 25:5 New Living Translation<div>“Yes, I am the vine; you are the branches. Those who remain in me, and I in them, will produce much fruit. <b><i><u>For apart from me you can do nothing</u></i></b>.</div>Randolph Brownhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13759698356913335859noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2490649616472033014.post-36600956065899563912022-11-11T10:11:00.004-05:002022-11-11T10:18:57.655-05:00God's Thoughts<div style="text-align: center;"><b>Isaiah 55:8-9</b> </div><div style="text-align: center;"> “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, and your ways are not my ways.”</div><div style="text-align: center;">This is the Lord’s declaration. 9 “For as heaven is higher than earth, so my ways are higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts."</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div><b>Psalm 33:11</b></div><div>The counsel of the Lord stands forever, the plans of his heart to all generations.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Proverbs 19:21</b></div><div>Many are the plans in the mind of a man, but it is the purpose of the Lord that will stand.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Isaiah 46:10</b></div><div>declaring the end from the beginning and from ancient times things not yet done, saying, ‘My counsel shall stand, and I will accomplish all my purpose,’</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Job 23:13</b></div><div>But he is unchangeable, and who can turn him back? What he desires, that he does.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Daniel 4:37</b></div><div>Now I, Nebuchadnezzar, praise and extol and honor the King of heaven, for all his works are right and his ways are just; and those who walk in pride he is able to humble.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Psalm 92:5</b></div><div>How great are your works, O Lord! Your thoughts are very deep!</div><div><br /></div></div>Randolph Brownhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13759698356913335859noreply@blogger.com0