Sin robbed of power

WORDs of Saving Grace - sin robbed of power

Romans 6:14-15

14 For sin shall not have dominion over you: for ye are not under the law, but under grace.

15 What then? shall we sin, because we are not under the law, but under grace? God forbid.

The grace of God is given to us with a great price! To continue and practice sinful lives and claim we are God's child is self deception.

The blood of Jesus Christ has delivered our minds from dead sinful works and empowered us to live free from the dominance of the devilish power in this world.

Hebrews 9:14

How much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without spot to God, purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God?

Think about it:

When we steal we are saying - God you cannot provide for me in your ways of teaching me hard work and earning an honest living...

When we lie we are saying - God your truth will not make me free, so i must do what the father of lies does...

When we worry and are fearful we are saying - God your not in control and the evil will hurt my family, friends or myself.

None of this is faith in what Jesus did on the cross which  pleases God!

Psalms 84:11

For the LORD God is a sun and shield: the LORD will give grace and glory: no good thing will he withhold from them that walk uprightly.

John 8:31-32

31 Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him, If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed;

32 And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.

Matthew 6:28-30

28 And why take ye thought for raiment? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they toil not, neither do they spin:

29 And yet I say unto you, That even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these.

30 Wherefore, if God so clothe the grass of the field, which to day is, and to morrow is cast into the oven, shall he not much more clothe you, O ye of little faith?

Committing fraud

WORDs of Saving Grace - committing fraud

Leviticus 19:13  Thou shalt not defraud thy neighbour, neither rob him: the wages of him that is hired shall not abide with thee all night until the morning.

Fraud is ANYTIME that a person would portray or infer something to be true, when in fact they know it to be false for their own profit.

Jesus asked the question of - how much do you think a soul is worth?

Not only our soul, but what about our neighbors soul? The one that was defrauded for worldly profit. Was the cost of their soul considered?

Matthew 16:26  For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?

Jesus knows the price of a soul and He was the only one who could pay it.

Psalms 49:8

(For the redemption of their soul is precious, and it ceaseth for ever:)

1 Peter 1:18-19

18 Forasmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain conversation received by tradition from your fathers;

19 But with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot:

A new name

WORDs of Saving Grace - your new name

Revelation 2:17

He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the hidden manna, and will give him a white stone, and in the stone a new name written, which no man knoweth saving he that receiveth it.

There are many ways that we establish our name with those who know us for the short span of our lives here. But think about it, how well do you know your great grandparents? 

You may know a few things about them, but you never really knew them.

Our lives are but a vapor that soon vanishes away. The same can be said for all those who were written for our example in the Bible.

There is however a scarlet thread which follows those who loved the Lord and were determined to worship and love Him. And like them although there are many triumphs and tragedies, what matters most is who you are to God.

God is not so much concerned with What you are, as He is Whose you are. You are His prized possession, the jewel of His creation. More desireable to Him than all the planets and stars.

When He found us we were orphaned and uncomely in every way. But He redeemed us with His precious blood and our life is no longer about what we are, what we can do, or what we can give. But is all about who we belong to.

You have been given a new name...Christian - and "your life is hid with Christ in God."

Ezekiel 16:8-14

8 Now when I passed by thee, and looked upon thee, behold, thy time was the time of love; and I spread my skirt over thee, and covered thy nakedness: yea, I sware unto thee, and entered into a covenant with thee, saith the Lord GOD, and thou becamest mine.

9 Then washed I thee with water; yea, I throughly washed away thy blood from thee, and I anointed thee with oil.

10 I clothed thee also with broidered work, and shod thee with badgers' skin, and I girded thee about with fine linen, and I covered thee with silk.

11 I decked thee also with ornaments, and I put bracelets upon thy hands, and a chain on thy neck.

12 And I put a jewel on thy forehead, and earrings in thine ears, and a beautiful crown upon thine head.

13 Thus wast thou decked with gold and silver; and thy raiment was of fine linen, and silk, and broidered work; thou didst eat fine flour, and honey, and oil: and thou wast exceeding beautiful, and thou didst prosper into a kingdom.

14 And thy renown went forth among the heathen for thy beauty: for it was perfect through my comeliness, which I had put upon thee, saith the Lord GOD.

A willing heart

WORDs of Saving Grace - a willing heart

Exodus 25:2

Speak unto the children of Israel, that they bring me an offering: of every man that giveth it willingly with his heart ye shall take my offering.

Willing love is a paradox of creation. Because God created us to love Him, yet we have the free will to choose to love Him.

As much as a preacher or a parent would like to see their entire family or congregation have true love and salvation, if we could force and control someone to love the Lord it would not be authentic.

The free will of love is precious, it cannot be bought, forced, guilted or even earned. Love is a miracle from God Himself. This is the only gift of the Spirit the devil cannot emulate. The devils and demons can preach, sing, speak in tongues, even give money and possessions to the poor. But without love its sounding brass and a tinkling cymbal.

2 Corinthians 8:12

For if there be first a willing mind, it is accepted according to that a man hath, and not according to that he hath not.

Philemon 1:14

But without thy mind would I do nothing; that thy benefit should not be as it were of necessity, but willingly.

1 Peter 5:2  Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof, not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind;

Instead of trying to force others to think like we do, why not live and love like Jesus, and trust that the Holy Spirit will do His work to lead hearts to Him.

John 6:44  No man can come to me, except the Father which hath sent me draw him: and I will raise him up at the last day.

Delight in the LORD

WORDs of Saving Grace - delight in the LORD

Psalms 37:4  Delight thyself also in the LORD; and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart.

Delight is a description of joy and happiness. Not duty, requirement, or commandment.

There are many who perceive the worship of God as a duty in order to maintain their religion and status with God. It is viewed as "you better do it, or else".

But fellowship and peace with the Lord is a continual presence and heartfelt gratitude continually. A continual prayer, and continuous worship rather than a prescribed duty of "thou shalt".

This same willing love and joy was even shown through Christ Himself and His willingness to die for our sin.

John 10:18  No man taketh it from me, but I lay it down of myself. I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again. This commandment have I received of my Father.

Doctrines of devils

WORDs of Saving Grace - doctrines of devils

1 Timothy 4:1-3

1 Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils;

2 Speaking lies in hypocrisy; having their conscience seared with a hot iron;

3 Forbidding to marry, and commanding to abstain from meats, which God hath created to be received with thanksgiving of them which believe and know the truth.

Notice that the "doctrines of devils" is the primary focus in this passage. Warning us, not of something we would consider sinful like drinking, drugs or fornication; but instead, something that could be viewed as righteous and holy.

There are those who teach today if a husband and wife separate they cannot be remarried (forbidding to marry).

And there are those who teach that we should refrain from eating pork such as the jews (abstain from meats).

According to this scripture these have departed from "the faith" and are essentially trusting in their own meritted works and not faith in Christ.

A preacher once told me that a person should never leave a church because of false doctrine. But to the contrary false doctrines is one of the primary reasons we should leave a church.

Doctrine is the single most important reason for being committed to a congregation.

Lets look at a couple other scriptures about doctrine.

Matthew 7:28

And it came to pass, when Jesus had ended these sayings, the people were astonished at his doctrine:

John 7:15-18

15 And the Jews marvelled, saying, How knoweth this man letters, having never learned?

16 Jesus answered them, and said, My doctrine is not mine, but his that sent me.

17 If any man will do his will, he shall know of the doctrine, whether it be of God, or whether I speak of myself.

18 He that speaketh of himself seeketh his own glory: but he that seeketh his glory that sent him, the same is true, and no unrighteousness is in him.

Deuteronomy 32:2-3

2 My doctrine shall drop as the rain, my speech shall distil as the dew, as the small rain upon the tender herb, and as the showers upon the grass:

3 Because I will publish the name of the LORD: ascribe ye greatness unto our God.

Matthew 15:9

But in vain they do worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men.

Matthew 16:12  Then understood they how that he bade them not beware of the leaven of bread, but of the doctrine of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees.

John 18:19-20

19 The high priest then asked Jesus of his disciples, and of his doctrine.

20 Jesus answered him, I spake openly to the world; I ever taught in the synagogue, and in the temple, whither the Jews always resort; and in secret have I said nothing.

Acts 2:42

And they continued stedfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers.

Acts 5:28

Saying, Did not we straitly command you that ye should not teach in this name? and, behold, ye have filled Jerusalem with your doctrine, and intend to bring this man's blood upon us.

Acts 13:12

Then the deputy, when he saw what was done, believed, being astonished at the doctrine of the Lord.

Romans 6:17

But God be thanked, that ye were the servants of sin, but ye have obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine which was delivered you.

Romans 16:17

Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them.

Ephesians 4:14

That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive;

Colossians 2:22

Which all are to perish with the using;) after the commandments and doctrines of men?

1 Timothy 1:3

As I besought thee to abide still at Ephesus, when I went into Macedonia, that thou mightest charge some that they teach no other doctrine,

1 Timothy 1:10

For whoremongers, for them that defile themselves with mankind, for menstealers, for liars, for perjured persons, and if there be any other thing that is contrary to sound doctrine;

1 Timothy 4:6

If thou put the brethren in remembrance of these things, thou shalt be a good minister of Jesus Christ, nourished up in the words of faith and of good doctrine, whereunto thou hast attained.

1 Timothy 4:13

Till I come, give attendance to reading, to exhortation, to doctrine.

1 Timothy 4:16

Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee.

1 Timothy 5:17

Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honour, especially they who labour in the word and doctrine.

1 Timothy 6:1

Let as many servants as are under the yoke count their own masters worthy of all honour, that the name of God and his doctrine be not blasphemed.

1 Timothy 6:3

If any man teach otherwise, and consent not to wholesome words, even the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to the doctrine which is according to godliness;

2 Timothy 3:10

But thou hast fully known my doctrine, manner of life, purpose, faith, longsuffering, charity, patience,

2 Timothy 3:16

All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:

2 Timothy 4:2

Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine.

2 Timothy 4:3

For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears;

Titus 1:9

Holding fast the faithful word as he hath been taught, that he may be able by sound doctrine both to exhort and to convince the gainsayers.

Titus 2:1

But speak thou the things which become sound doctrine:

Titus 2:7

In all things shewing thyself a pattern of good works: in doctrine shewing uncorruptness, gravity, sincerity,

Titus 2:10

Not purloining, but shewing all good fidelity; that they may adorn the doctrine of God our Saviour in all things.

Hebrews 13:9

Be not carried about with divers and strange doctrines. For it is a good thing that the heart be established with grace; not with meats, which have not profited them that have been occupied therein.

2 John 1:9

Whosoever transgresseth, and abideth not in the doctrine of Christ, hath not God. He that abideth in the doctrine of Christ, he hath both the Father and the Son.

2 John 1:10

If there come any unto you, and bring not this doctrine, receive him not into your house, neither bid him God speed:

Revelation 2:14

But I have a few things against thee, because thou hast there them that hold the doctrine of Balaam, who taught Balac to cast a stumblingblock before the children of Israel, to eat things sacrificed unto idols, and to commit fornication.

Revelation 2:15

So hast thou also them that hold the doctrine of the Nicolaitans, which thing I hate.

The doctrine of Christ is extremely important. We must know and recognize His true teachings.

What is "it" ?

WORDs of Saving Grace - what is "it" ?

Psalms 37:5  Commit thy way unto the LORD; trust also in him; and he shall bring it to pass.

"It" are the "desires of thine heart" from verse 4.

Notice that these desires are given when our delight is in the Lord.

The Lord places divine desires for good things in our hearts when we delight in Him.

James 1:17

Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.

The Lord even tells us we should covet His best gifts!

1 Corinthians 12:31  But covet earnestly the best gifts: and yet shew I unto you a more excellent way.

The most perfect gift to ever be given or attained is the gift of Jesus Christ and His perfect love.

2 Corinthians 9:15  Thanks be unto God for his unspeakable gift.

From the hand of God

WORDs of Saving Grace -

from the hand of God

Ecclesiastes 2:24  There is nothing better for a man, than that he should eat and drink, and that he should make his soul enjoy good in his labour. This also I saw, that it was from the hand of God.

There has been times where preachers have condemned hard work and properity, but it is not so according to God.

"The Love of money is the root of all evil" 1 Timothy 6:10, not money itself or the possession of money.

God actually gives all men the capability to prosper and be successful.

Ecclesiastes 9:11

I returned, and saw under the sun, that the race is not to the swift, nor the battle to the strong, neither yet bread to the wise, nor yet riches to men of understanding, nor yet favour to men of skill; but time and chance happeneth to them all.

What we do with what God gives us is blessed when we are obedient and not slothful.

Matthew 25:26-28

26 His lord answered and said unto him, Thou wicked and slothful servant, thou knewest that I reap where I sowed not, and gather where I have not strawed:

27 Thou oughtest therefore to have put my money to the exchangers, and then at my coming I should have received mine own with usury.

28 Take therefore the talent from him, and give it unto him which hath ten talents.

There is never retirement from praising and worship, but the Lord gives us the privilidge to work and enjoy the rewards of labor when the time comes. This is Not to be condemned!

Even Jesus set down on the right hand of our Heavenly Father after His work was finished!

Hebrews 10:12

But this man, after he had offered one sacrifice for sins for ever, sat down on the right hand of God;

Sprinkle clean water

WORDs of Saving Grace - sprinkle clean water

Ezekiel 36:25  Then will I sprinkle clean water upon you, and ye shall be clean: from all your filthiness, and from all your idols, will I cleanse you.

There are some scriptures in the Word of God that are metaphores and others which are literal. It is unfortunate that often what is meant as a metaphore is taken or desrcibed as literal and what is literal is misinterpreted as metaphorical.

The Lord is not literally saying He will sprinkle water on us to make us clean but it is a word picture. Yes literally a Word picture, or rather a picture of the Word sprinkled in our hearts.

The way we know this is by comparing scripture with scripture. Not scripture with tradition, or scripture based on our own ideas. But scripture with scripture.

The apostle Paul clearly illustrates what the water represents, and so does Jesus.

Ephesians 5:25-27

25 Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it;

26 That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word,

27 That he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish.

John 3:5

Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God.

1 Peter 1:23

Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever.

It is very clear from these scriptures that the Water represents the Word of God.

Jesus said when we believe on Him living water or life giving Word will flow from our heart!

John 7:38

He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water.

Power to witness

WORDs of Saving Grace - power to witness

Acts 1:8  But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.

One of the most evident signs of a true Christian is the power to witness to others ABOUT JESUS.

Many religous church people witness about living a clean life, paying tithes, working in the church and many other good works; but Nothing about Jesus...

Matthew 7:22-23

22 Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works?

23 And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.

Jesus said that true power from God will testfy about Jesus ... Him and not ourselves!

John 16:13-14

13 Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come.

14 He shall glorify me: for he shall receive of mine, and shall shew it unto you.

Praise the Lord

WORDs of Saving Grace - Praise the Lord

Revelation 19:3  And again they said, Alleluia. And her smoke rose up for ever and ever.

Alleluia is the greek word with Hebrew origin for Hallelujah. Which is a combination Hallel (praise) and Jah which is short for Yaweh.

Psalms 68:4

Sing unto God, sing praises to his name: extol him that rideth upon the heavens by his name JAH, and rejoice before him.

Notice that as God's people in Heaven repeat "Alleluia" that the fire which burns The Lord's enemies is eternal - "for ever and ever".

Sometimes when we go through trials, tribulation or trouble we think that we have no reason to say "Praise the Lord". But this is when we should praise HIM all the more!

Being spiteful against the Lord doesn't hurt God at all. But it has a significantly negative effect on us and our lives.

When we are surrounded on everyside, seemingly out numbered, let us turn our eyes on Jesus and the power of His cross, and lets "Praise the Lord"!!!

2 Chronicles 20:22  And when they began to sing and to praise, the LORD set ambushments against the children of Ammon, Moab, and mount Seir, which were come against Judah; and they were smitten.

Christlike suffering

WORDs of Saving Grace - Christlike suffering

Philippians 1:29-30

29 For unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for his sake;

30 Having the same conflict which ye saw in me, and now hear to be in me.

There is little discussion or encouragement to suffer for Christ in today's world.

Many will say if your my friend i am your friend and you can count on me...(Matthew 5:47) "do not even the publicans so"? 

But Christ said to love our enemies and do good to them. However there is a spirit of selfish purpose, desire, ambission and selfrighteous pride in most of society.

Christ within us will be revealed at times through Godly suffering. But Godly suffering does not attain the presence of Christ within us.

Belief in Christ always comes first, and then evidence will follow. Faith that works, not works and faith.

Nevertheless His suffering is beyond compare to anything we could ever face or endure. His suffering was literally supernatural and beyond what man could cause Him to suffer.

He suffered the wrath of almighty God in our place.

John 3:36

He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him.

My Son

WORDs of Saving Grace - My son

Proverbs 3:11-12

11 My son, despise not the chastening of the LORD; neither be weary of his correction:

12 For whom the LORD loveth he correcteth; even as a father the son in whom he delighteth.

What an amazing title to be called a "son of God".

Notice that Jesus when speaking of Abraham and the Rich Man did not refer to him as "my son", but rather just son.

Luke 16:25

But Abraham said, Son, remember that thou in thy lifetime receivedst thy good things, and likewise Lazarus evil things: but now he is comforted, and thou art tormented.

This is because if we are not a child of God, then we are a child of the devil as Jesus spoke of in John 8.

John 8:44

Ye are of your father the devil, and the lusts of your father ye will do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and abode not in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own: for he is a liar, and the father of it.

Jesus gives us a clear opportunity to be "born again" and become a child of God, not based on what we have done, but what He has accomplished!

This is the Good News of the GOSPEL!

John 3:7

Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again.

John 3:16  For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

Wise counsel

WORDs of Saving Grace - wise counsel

Proverbs 19:21  There are many devices in a man's heart; nevertheless the counsel of the LORD, that shall stand.

There will be times when we may not agree with the Word of God, and we lean to our own understanding, but our hearts are deceptive and God is always true and faithful.

We can find peace, rest and assurance when we trust in the counsel of the Lord rather than what we believe is right in our own eyes.

Deuteronomy 12:8

Ye shall not do after all the things that we do here this day, every man whatsoever is right in his own eyes.

If there is one message from the Lord where we should have absolute confidence, faith and rock solid understanding it is the message of the cross.

Jesus came, died and rose again to save sinners, and to deliver us from the power of sin, which is death.

Self righteous, holier than thou attitudes, and condemnation of others is sickening to God (Revelation 3:16).

But a humble heart and submission to the Holy Spirit is pleasing in His eyes.

Matthew 5:5

Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth.

OUR RIGHTEOUSNESS

WORDs of Saving Grace - OUR RIGHTEOUSNESS

Jeremiah 23:6

In his days Judah shall be saved, and Israel shall dwell safely: and this is his name whereby he shall be called, THE LORD OUR RIGHTEOUSNESS.

Jeremiah 33:16

In those days shall Judah be saved, and Jerusalem shall dwell safely: and this is the name wherewith she shall be called, The LORD our righteousness.

Jesus said that we are blessed when we hunger and thirst after righteousness. 

But unfortunately there are so many who are never satisfied, because they seek to satisfy this hunger and thirst by their own righteous deeds and acts. Wherein we can never attain God's glory.

Jeremiah saw ahead to the day when God will save His people and we will be safe because of THE LORD OUR RIGHTEOUSNESS and not our righteousness.

Our righteousnesses are filthy rags (Isaiah 64:6) in the presence of God. And Jesus plainly said that we must be more righteous than the very most religous leaders of Israel otherwise we will never reach Heaven... So how is this even possible!?

Matthew 5:20

For I say unto you, That except your righteousness shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven.

The ONLY way heavenly righteousness is possible is for Him to take our sin and give us the righteousness of God!

2 Corinthians 5:21  For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.

Greater than a conqueror

WORDs of Saving Grace - greater than a

conqueror

Romans 8:37  Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us.

There have been many men who have triumphed in military victory throughout history.

But none have ever, nor will any ever conquer the entire world.

Jesus overcame the entire world: that is all that is in the world; which is the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eye and the pride of life.

1 John 2:16

For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world.

John 16:33  These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.

And He revealed His authority over the world by His death, burial and resurrection. Although it had not yet been finished when He said this, He spoke as though it were already done.

Why are Christian's greater than a conqueror? Because through Christ we have not simple overcome parts of the world, but the entire world.

1 John 4:4

Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world.

1 John 5:4

For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith.

1 John 5:5

Who is he that overcometh the world, but he that believeth that Jesus is the Son of God?

We are blessed

WORDs of Saving Grace - we are blessed

Matthew 5:6  Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled.

We are blessed, but not because of money

We are blessed, but not because of possessions

We are blessed, but not because of our health

We are blessed, but not because of a job

We are blessed, but not because of a home or car

We are blessed, but not because of a wonderful family

We are blessed because of the hunger and thirst for Jesus in our heart and soul.

No matter how many songs we hear, or how many sermons we listen to, we still hunger and thirst after Jesus and His righteousness.

But unlike having blessings anchored in other things; we never go hungry or are left wanting in Jesus. He always satisfies our hearts desire in Him every day!

Jesus is The Lord

WORDs of Saving Grace - Jesus is The Lord

1 Corinthians 12:3  Wherefore I give you to understand, that no man speaking by the Spirit of God calleth Jesus accursed: and that no man can say that Jesus is the Lord, but by the Holy Ghost.

"Some call Him Savior the Redeemer of all men. I call Him Jesus for He is my dearest friend!"

Who do you say He is? Peter spoke the truth that He is the Christ.

John 6:69  And we believe and are sure that thou art that Christ, the Son of the living God.

But not only is He The Christ, and not only is He the Son of God. But He is God in the flesh!

Those who see Him, see the Father.

John 14:9  ... he that hath seen me hath seen the Father; and how sayest thou then, Shew us the Father?

Isaiah 9:6

... his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.

But He is also the Lord of my life. He is my King. The ruler of my heart and my soul. He has provided everything we will ever need or want. There is none like Him and none above Him. He Is the LORD of LORDs.

I confess Him as my Lord by the power and authority of the Holy Ghost now and for all eternity... will you?

Romans 10:9  That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.

The speech i allow

WORDs of Saving Grace - the speech i  allow

Ephesians 4:29-30

29 Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers.

30 And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption.

Notice it is said "Let", this means to allow or enable to have power.

Why would WE allow corruption to have control of the words that proceed from our lips?

Look at the definition of corruption according to Strong's:

rotten, putrefied

corrupted by one and no longer fit for use, worn out

of poor quality, bad, unfit for use, worthless

When we practice and follow evil speaking this comes from the heart.

Matthew 12:34

O generation of vipers, how can ye, being evil, speak good things? for out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh.

But when we follow Jesus and allow His words to come out of our mouths this is the will of God!

Psalms 103:5

Who satisfieth thy mouth with good things; so that thy youth is renewed like the eagle's.

I want to be sensitive to the Holy Spirit when He is speaking through me or someone else, rather than grieving Him.

Jesus' speech was seasoned with grace even as He hung on the cross. If we are going to "let" communication out of our mouth let us speak of Him and what He has done in our lives.

Psalms 44:8

In God we boast all the day long, and praise thy name for ever. Selah.

My goodness

WORDs of Saving Grace - my goodness

Psalms 16:2  O my soul, thou hast said unto the LORD, Thou art my Lord: my goodness extendeth not to thee;

This same theme is repeated over and over throughout the entire Word of God. My goodness cannot even be compared to God's goodness.

Job 32:2  ... against Job was his wrath kindled, because he justified himself rather than God.

Neither is the measured mark of righteousness compared along side of our neighbor, pastor, preacher or friend.

2 Corinthians 10:12  For we dare not make ourselves of the number, or compare ourselves with some that commend themselves: but they measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves among themselves, are not wise.

But the impeccable standard of perfection is by the CROSS of Jesus Christ and His precious Blood alone!

Romans 5:19

For as by one man's disobedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous.

2 Corinthians 5:21

For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.

Romans 8:4  That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.

Next time we say "my goodness" go ahead and finish and say "extendeth not to thee"!

The redeemed

WORDs of Saving Grace - the redeemed

Revelation 5:9  And they sung a new song, saying, Thou art worthy to take the book, and to open the seals thereof: for thou wast slain, and hast redeemed us to God by thy blood out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation;

The redeemed are those who were purchased from sin. To redeem means to buy back, to rescue from captivity or slavery, to regain possession of that which was sold. 

We were purchased by His blood and not by the blood of our fathers.

Every man, woman and child is born into the slavery of sin. Regardless of ones lineage, even if we were from the same tribe of Judah as Christ Himself we were all born sinners.

There were those who thought that since Abraham is their father that they were justified with God. But the Holy Spirit through John the baptist got right to their hearts.

Matthew 3:9

And think not to say within yourselves, We have Abraham to our father: for I say unto you, that God is able of these stones to raise up children unto Abraham.

They thought the promise God gave him about the seed in Genesis 15 was about them... Instead it is about Christ and those who are born again. With incorruptable seed.

Genesis 15:5

And he brought him forth abroad, and said, Look now toward heaven, and tell the stars, if thou be able to number them: and he said unto him, So shall thy seed be.

Galatians 3:16

Now to Abraham and his seed were the promises made. He saith not, And to seeds, as of many; but as of one, And to thy seed, which is Christ.

Galatians 3:9

So then they which be of faith are blessed with faithful Abraham.

A gift cannot be earned otherwise it is not a gift

WORDs of Saving Grace - a gift cannot be earned, otherwise it is not a gift

Romans 11:6  And if by grace, then is it no more of works: otherwise grace is no more grace. But if it be of works, then is it no more grace: otherwise work is no more work.

We can never repay God for the gift of His Son. Yet we allow ourself to feel as though we must pay back the amazing grace He has given us.

Think about it, what if you gave your child a gift and they continually tried to work and earn a way to pay you back.

That is not God's will for His children. Rather to allow the gift of His grace to shape and mold us into the blessed children He saved by His Amazing Grace.

Romans 5:20, 21  ... But where sin abounded, grace did much more abound: That as sin hath reigned unto death, even so might grace reign through righteousness unto eternal life by Jesus Christ our Lord.

How to get to repentance

WORDs of Saving Grace - how to get to repentance

Romans 2:4  Or despisest thou the riches of his goodness and forbearance and longsuffering; not knowing that the goodness of God leadeth thee to repentance?

The greatest power in all creation is LOVE - for God is love. Not that He loves but He is Love. As He said "I AM, THAT I AM".

It is the power of God's great goodness through the Love of Jesus Christ that leads us to repentance by His power not ours.

The reason Esau could not find no place of repentance is the bitter denial of his birthright and trading it for a morsel of food.

Hebrews 12:17

For ye know how that afterward, when he would have inherited the blessing, he was rejected: for he found no place of repentance, though he sought it carefully with tears.

YOU have a birthright my dear friend and neighbor, and that is the right to be Born again by the Word of God!

1 Peter 1:23

Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever.

If we

WORDs of Saving Grace - if we

1 John 1:8-9

8 If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us.

9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

IF is certainly a conditional term. Not everyone realizes that we are all sinners and fall short of God's standard of absolute perfection. And since this has been written it is an obvious concern that must be addressed.

To say "i know i am a sinner", or to say "i am only human and we all have faults", is different than being convicted by the Holy Spirit of a particular sin wherein God desires to help us.

For instance some may not realize that when they speak to others about bad choices other people have made, it is gossip and talebearing.

Leviticus 19:16

Thou shalt not go up and down as a talebearer among thy people: neither shalt thou stand against the blood of thy neighbour: I am the LORD.

Notice in the Lord's command gossip is referenced in the same verse as murdering a neighbor!

To ask forgiveness of a sin is not true conviction unless it is accompanied by repentance (Mark 1:15). 

When Christ cleanses us of sin, He also replaces that desire to continue in that sin with a desire to please Him. We love Him, because He first commended His love toward us while we were still sinners, and died for us.

Luke 7:47

Wherefore I say unto thee, Her sins, which are many, are forgiven; for she loved much: but to whom little is forgiven, the same loveth little.

In His own body

WORDs of Saving Grace - in His own body

1 Peter 2:24  Who his own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness: by whose stripes ye were healed.

It has been mankinds nature to pass blame to someone else since the beginning of sin (Genesis 3:12).

However it has always been God's nature to make an atonement for our failures, although He is forever without any blame (Genesis 3:21).

The suffering He went through on "the tree" was not for His sins, but it was our sins that He "bare". This literally means to place upon ones self as a load to carry, or to sustain anothers punishment.

This was not figurative or symbolic, because He literally suffered our sin "in His own body". He did not blame the devil or place the sin on another. He took them all upon or rather even inside Himself - the weight of all mankind throughout all time and creation "IN" His body.

A trangression is sin that is seen outwardly, on the outside. But there is sin even deep with the heart (iniquity) that no one hears or sees. Yes, He took those "in" Him as well.

The stripes and punishment He took is beyond anything we ourself could ever carry (bare). And just as He showed His life giving power to heal the physically sick, He still heals from the eternal punishment of sin.

thank you - JESUS!

Cause them to understand

WORDs of Saving Grace - cause them to understand

Nehemiah 8:8  So they read in the book in the law of God distinctly, and gave the sense, and caused them to understand the reading.

Not only is the role of a preacher to exhort or encourage others to come to Christ and follow Him, but also to help others "understand" what God's scripture means. To simply regurgitate facts and words is neither from the heart nor is profitable to the hearers, but is instead vain rhetoric and bombast.

1 Timothy 1:5-6

5 Now the end of the commandment is charity out of a pure heart, and of a good conscience, and of faith unfeigned:

6 From which some having swerved have turned aside unto vain jangling;

Jesus made it a critical part of His ministry to "cause" people to understand the scripture, not only repeat what it said.

Multiple times He said "but i say unto you", and this means you may think the answer is one thing, but what "i say unto you" is what this really means.

Matthew 5:22, 5:28, 5:32, 5:34, 5:39, 5:44, 11:22, 11:24, 12:6, 12:36, 17:12, 26:29

Jesus would even say "this day is this scripture fulfilled". In other words this is what the Old Testament was referring to and what it means...

Luke 4:21  And he began to say unto them, This day is this scripture fulfilled in your ears.

And no doubt the men of God Paul, Peter, Jude and James all wrote and explained the Old Testament scriptures ("as it is written") in relation to the power of Christ's death, burial, resurrection and His return.

Next time you hear preaching - is it causing you to understand who our Father, Jesus and the Holy Spirit is and His will? Or is it man's purpose and agenda?

2 Timothy 2:14-15

14 Of these things put them in remembrance, charging them before the Lord that they strive not about words to no profit, but to the subverting of the hearers.

15 Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.

The Lord's earth

WORDs of Saving Grace - the Lord's earth

Psalms 24:1  The earth is the LORD'S, and the fulness thereof; the world, and they that dwell therein.

What a blessing to know and believe the God owns everything. There is nothing He does not own and nothing He would refrain from sharing with us unless it would be harmful.

Psalms 84:11

For the LORD God is a sun and shield: the LORD will give grace and glory: no good thing will he withhold from them that walk uprightly.

It is only vanity to think "stuff" can make us happy. When truly it can distract us from the Lord if our heart is set upon it.

Luke 17:31

In that day, he which shall be upon the housetop, and his stuff in the house, let him not come down to take it away: and he that is in the field, let him likewise not return back.

Psalms 62:10  ... if riches increase, set not your heart upon them.

When i think of Jesus my Lord and how He didnt care to have a place He called His permanent home (Matthew 8:20), but instead often spoke of home being with His Father.

John 14:2  In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you.

His sight was set on high and yet He used the things of this life to show His love for others; Rather than using others to show His love for the things of this life.

He still does this for all men even today. Because man doesnt live by bread alone, but by every word that God speaks to provide for us all.

Matthew 5:45  ... for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust.

Rise and Shine

WORDs of Saving Grace - rise and shine

Isaiah 60:1  Arise, shine; for thy light is come, and the glory of the LORD is risen upon thee.

Ever wonder where this term originated - "Rise and Shine"? The Word of God, like many other coined phrases is the sole source.

This is however a Spiritual application rather than time to get outta bed!

We have the light of the world and that is the Holy Spirit of Jesus Christ! And because He is in us we shine! In Him is no misunderstanding, confusion, evil or darkness at all!

John 8:12

Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.

Matthew 5:14

Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid.

1 John 1:5  This then is the message which we have heard of him, and declare unto you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all.

If Moses shined from being in the presence of God to record the law which condemned us how much brighter do we shine because we are not only in His presence, but He is in us!

2 Corinthians 3:7-9

7 But if the ministration of death, written and engraven in stones, was glorious, so that the children of Israel could not stedfastly behold the face of Moses for the glory of his countenance; which glory was to be done away:

8 How shall not the ministration of the spirit be rather glorious?

9 For if the ministration of condemnation be glory, much more doth the ministration of righteousness exceed in glory.

One day the concealed glory of Christ will shine through us like never before. His glory in us will no longer be concealed by the vail of this flesh. And all because He arose in His glorious body!

Philippians 3:21  Who shall change our vile body, that it may be fashioned like unto his glorious body, according to the working whereby he is able even to subdue all things unto himself.

Matthew 13:43  Then shall the righteous shine forth as the sun in the kingdom of their Father. Who hath ears to hear, let him hear.

As thou hast done

WORDs of Saving Grace - as thou hast done

Obadiah 1:15  For the day of the LORD is near upon all the heathen: as thou hast done, it shall be done unto thee: thy reward shall return upon thine own head.

To some who throughout their life who have been kind, honest, fair and compassionate to friends, family and neighbors this warning from the Lord may not seem to apply to them.

But God's standard of absolute perfection and righteousness can Only be attained through faith in Christ Jesus.

Galatians 2:16

Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ...

The fact is that good and kind people die everyday. And regardless of how good you have been you will die, for it is an appointment all men have.

Hebrews 9:27  And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment:

"As thou hast done it shall be done unto thee" - if all we can count on when it is our time to die is what "thou hast done" how can we have any assurance of eternal life?

But if we trust in what our Lord Jesus has "finished" and already done we can have absolute assurance we have eternal life. For He is the Only one who has defeated the captivity of death.

John 11:25-26

25 Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live:

26 And whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die. Believest thou this?

Not revealed by man

WORDs of Saving Grace - not revealed by man

Matthew 16:17  And Jesus answered and said unto him, Blessed art thou, Simon Bar-jona: for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my Father which is in heaven.

The need for salvation, the power of the cross, the splendor of Heaven, are all unknown to the natural man, until revealed by God's Holy Spirit.

1 Corinthians 2:11  For what man knoweth the things of a man, save the spirit of man which is in him? even so the things of God knoweth no man, but the Spirit of God.

Jesus specifically asks - "who do you think I am?" this question is still asked through men and women of Christ by the Holy Spirit today and the answer bears our eternal destiny.

Matthew 12:37

For by thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned.

Even those who may read this are pricked in their heart to answer "who do you say Jesus is"?

The devils know who He is...

Luke 4:34

Saying, Let us alone; what have we to do with thee, thou Jesus of Nazareth? art thou come to destroy us? I know thee who thou art; the Holy One of God.

The winds and seas know who He is...

Mark 4:39  And he arose, and rebuked the wind, and said unto the sea, Peace, be still. And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm.

The thief on the cross knows who He is...

Luke 23:42

And he said unto Jesus, Lord, remember me when thou comest into thy kingdom.

Who do you say that Jesus is?

His footstool

WORDs of Saving Grace - his footstool

Psalms 99:5  Exalt ye the LORD our God, and worship at his footstool; for he is holy.

The same Lord God who knelt to wash our feet as He humbly took upon Him the form of a servant to take away our sin, is sitting upon His throne while those who were His enemies bow at His feet.

Psalms 110:1

The LORD said unto my Lord, Sit thou at my right hand, until I make thine enemies thy footstool.

The change made in the hearts of evil men is truly miraculous and incredible. This change Only comes through faith in Christ's blood that can make the vilest sinner clean.

Romans 5:10

For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life.

His mercy endureth forever

WORDs of Saving Grace - His mercy endureth forever

Psalms 136:1  O give thanks unto the LORD; for he is good: for his mercy endureth for ever.

All 26 verses of this Psalm sing "for his mercy endureth for ever"

Thats right sing! Not say. A Psalm is a song!

Just imagine hearing this the "great hallel" sung during the days Christ walked the earth with His disciples during the times of the feasts.

The same Lord is with us even now, today. We do not require a "yes" answer to prayer in order to sing. We sing to Him because He "is good" and His mercy will always endure All Things.

When i see "mercy" i see JESUS..."Mercy walked in and pleaded my case, called to the stand MY God's Saving Grace".

The grace of Jesus Christ will always endure. No matter the circumtance or environment. No one can change His death, burial, and resurrection!

Sing because He is good, He is God, and His mercy endures forever!