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!

Holy is your name

WORDs of Saving Grace - Holy is your name

Matthew 6:9  After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.

Often we may begin our prayer by directly asking for a need, want or care. And although Jesus told us to A.S.K. (Matthew 7:7) it helps us to ask according to His will when we put Him first, rather than us (1 John 5:14).

Our Heavenly Father already knows our needs before we even ask (Matthew 6:8). What an incredible miracle we can experience when He answers before we even ask (Isaiah 65:24)!

Maybe your just thinking about some concern and instead begin to praise and worship Him; because His name is Holy and suddenly the LORD shows up and shakes the earth (Isaiah 6:4) to move on behalf of your prayer through Jesus Holy Name, because of the sacrifice He gave at the cross!

John 14:13

And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son.

Plain and Clear

WORDs of Saving Grace - plain and clear

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.

When we trust Jesus - the Son of God, we have assurance of Everlasting Life!

If we trust in Anything else we will face the wrath of God in our own merits, works and deeds.

Jesus took upon Himself the wrath of God in our place so that we would experience His true love and fellowship.

1 Corinthians 16:22  If any man love not the Lord Jesus Christ, let him be Anathema Maranatha.

Anathema Maranatha (translated) - Accused and cursed with the greatest curse known, God's judgment is upon him.

seek righteousness & meekness

WORDs of Saving Grace - seek righteousness & meekness

Zephaniah 2:3  Seek ye the LORD, all ye meek of the earth, which have wrought his judgment; seek righteousness, seek meekness: it may be ye shall be hid in the day of the LORD'S anger.

Righteousness and meekness are core attributes of Jesus (Matthew 11:29).

There are many who may seek to be righteous and meek themselves, but who forsake Jesus (Matthew 5:20).

We should notice the phrase "it may be ye shall be hid". This does not mean that Christ may or may not save us. It means we may or may not truly trust in the LORD's salvation. 

Not because He will not save us, but because of our hard and deceptive hearts (Jeremiah 17:9).

The same is even true for John 3:16 - " 'should' not perish". When we are saved no one can pull us out of His hand (John 10:29). But the question is do we really believe HIM?

The enemy's will for us is not only to live sinful, but to deceive us into thinking we can be good enough to merit heaven (Galatians 3:1).

I dont know about anyone else, but when my number is called to be in God's presence i need Jesus to testify for me.

Hebrews 11:4

... he obtained witness that he was righteous, God testifying of his gifts: and by it he being dead yet speaketh.

Ezekiel 43:6

And I heard him speaking unto me out of the house; and the man stood by me.

The living God who doesnt need our sacrifice!

WORDs of Saving Grace - the living God who doesnt need our sacrifice!

Acts 17:24-25

24 God that made the world and all things therein, seeing that he is Lord of heaven and earth, dwelleth not in temples made with hands;

25 Neither is worshipped with men's hands, as though he needed any thing, seeing he giveth to all life, and breath, and all things;

Our God doesn't need our sacrifice - He is the sacrifice!

Genesis 22:8  ...My son, God will provide himself a lamb...

We need Him, He does not need us. He can raise up children from rocks!

Matthew 3:9  ...God is able of these stones to raise up children...

He gives us the choice to trust Him, and accept HIS Holy Spirit to dwell in us! and not in some man made  building somewhere!!!

John 4:21, 23

21 Jesus saith unto her, Woman, believe me, the hour cometh, when ye shall neither in this mountain, nor yet at Jerusalem, worship the Father.

23 But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him.

If we sacrifice in WORship it is because HE is WORthy not because Our Sacrifice is WORthy!

Revelation 4:11

Thou art worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honour and power: for thou hast created all things, and for thy pleasure they are and were created.

Instant help

WORDs of Saving Grace - instant help

Romans 12:12  Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer;

I was told once that if we never hope for anything then we will never be disappointed. 

However without hope there is nothing to look forward to, and no reason to rejoice.

Philippians 4:4  Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice.

Being patient during a difficult time is one thing, but patience when everything seems to go wrong (tribulation) is another. However this kind of patience comes from Jesus as everthing in His ministry seemed to fall apart. Nevertheless He overcame even death.

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.

When we are in trouble with seemingly no one or nowhere to turn for hope, it is easy to despair. Instead we have an instant limitless help offered to us from the one who never gives up!

Psalms 46:1

God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.

Afraid of God

WORDs of Saving Grace - afraid of God?

Romans 8:15  For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father.

The reason many church people are afraid of God is because of the guilt of sin.

Genesis 3:10

And he said, I heard thy voice in the garden, and I was afraid, because I was naked; and I hid myself.

But the one who is afraid of judgement is not trusting in God's loving grace through the cross of Jesus Christ.

1 John 4:18  There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love.

According to Romans 8:15 that spirit bondage to fear is not from God. It is not the Spirit of comfort Jesus sent from our Father.

John 15:26

But when the Comforter is come, whom I will send unto you from the Father, even the Spirit of truth, which proceedeth from the Father, he shall testify of me:

Jesus gave His life for our sin so we may come to God our Father in love, confidence and assurance.

Hebrews 4:16

Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.

The temple

WORDs of Saving Grace - the temple

1 Corinthians 6:19-20

19 What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?

20 For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's.

What an amazing price that the Lord God paid for our souls. But not only the soul, but the body that holds our soul temporarily (2 Corinthians 5:1).

Just as idle hands allow a house to fall apart, so this temple requires a diligence of the Spirit to sustain a proper dwelling place (Ecclesiastes 10:18).

But it is His unction by the Holy One who keeps this temple clean and acceptable for His indwelling (1 John 2:20).

This same glorious power that raised Jesus from the grave keeps this body alive (Galatians 2:20) and will raise us from the grave.

Romans 8:11

But if the Spirit of him that raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in you, he that raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies by his Spirit that dwelleth in you.

O' Lord

WORDs of Saving Grace - O Lord

Revelation 4:11  Thou art worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honour and power: for thou hast created all things, and for thy pleasure they are and were created.

This phrase "O Lord" occurs throughout the Bible no less than 335 times in the Old and New Testaments.

This has been used as a response to shock, surprise or worry over a problem or calamity for centuries. But this was not the intension of the Holy Spirit who moved men of God to write this phrase (Exodus 20:7).

Neither was the song written to take my Lord's name in vain.

"O' Lord my God, when i in awesome wonder, consider all the worlds thy hands hath made".

Rather the O' before Lord is an exclamation of deep heartfelt admiration and reverence for the hallowed name of God (Matthew 6:9).

This comes from the innermost part of the redeemed sinners soul in a humble worship and adoration for the one who not only died for our sins, but who reigns upon the throne of our heart.

Isaiah 25:1

O LORD, thou art my God; I will exalt thee, I will praise thy name; for thou hast done wonderful things; thy counsels of old are faithfulness and truth.

Increase of the body

WORDs of Saving Grace -

increase of the body

Ephesians 4:16  From whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love.

The ideal athlete is physically fit in every area of the body, but also must have a clear mind and a determined spirit to excel and win. This is the same for the Spiritual body of Christ. But it is clearly love which grows the body of Christ into the ideal congregation and body He desires (Ephesians 5:27).

Christian fellowship is essential to spiritual growth. Whether we fellowship through virtual social networks, telephone or Skype this interaction is so important to a healthy body of Christ. 

Speaking truth in love is not always sweet like honey but sometimes may sting a little like salt. Nevertheless when love is the motive the outcome desired by purchasing us by His own blood on the cross is worth it from the Lord's eyes.

Revelation 1:5-6

5 And from Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, and the first begotten of the dead, and the prince of the kings of the earth. Unto him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in his own blood,

6 And hath made us kings and priests unto God and his Father; to him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.

A grateful heart

WORDs of Saving Grace - a grateful heart

1 Thessalonians 5:18  In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.

A grateful heart is the opposite of a heart full of complaining and murmuring. It is God's will that we are always thankful for what Christ has done for us ("in Christ Jesus") regardless of our present circumstances.

If God gave His only begotten Son for our sins, then what are our worries, fears, needs, doubts, and complaints in comparison (Romans 8:32, Matthew 6:32)?

However it is quite rare to find a grateful heart. There was only one out of ten who gave praise to Jesus AFTER He had healed the ten lepers.

Can we give God praise today that He has either healed us from disease or kept us safe when we did'nt even realize?

Luke 17:15-18

15 And one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, and with a loud voice glorified God,

16 And fell down on his face at his feet, giving him thanks: and he was a Samaritan.

17 And Jesus answering said, Were there not ten cleansed? but where are the nine?

18 There are not found that returned to give glory to God, save this stranger.

Thy righteousness

WORDs of Saving Grace - thy righteousness

Psalms 35:28  And my tongue shall speak of thy righteousness and of thy praise all the day long.

Thank God that salvation is not based upon our right deeds.

Titus 3:5

Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost;

Even at our absolute best we miss God's bullseye.

Psalms 39:5

... verily every man at his best state is altogether vanity. Selah.

Romans 3:23  For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;

As a matter of fact in comparison to the righteousness of God - ALL our righteousness is worth throwing in the trash.

Isaiah 64:6  ... all our righteousnesses are as filthy rags;

The righteousness of God is given by faith in Christ. It is added to our account while sin was added to the account of the soul of Jesus. (2 Corinthians 5:21)

Sound to good to be true!?

That is why its called good news - "Gospel" and that is why i will always speak of His righteousness and not my own.

Rest

WORDs of Saving Grace - rest

Exodus 20:11  For in six days the LORD made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that in them is, and rested the seventh day: wherefore the LORD blessed the sabbath day, and hallowed it.

The seven day week came from the Bible and God's timeline from the very beginning, and it is still observed today.

But some do not realize Saturday is the seventh day of the week and Sunday is the first day - Look at any calendar. There are some who call Sunday the sabbath day but it simply is not Biblically accurate. 

Sunday is the Lord's day because He arose and Christians observe Sunday as a day to worship.

To sabbath is to rest from our occupation and obligations. It does not mean to literally not do anything. 

Goodness the older we get, sometimes it is work to just get moving in the morning!

There were many religous people at the church in Galatia and the Apostle Paul doubted their true faith in God, because they believed observing a particular holyday or holiday kept them in the favor of God.

Galatians 4:10-11

10 Ye observe days, and months, and times, and years.

11 I am afraid of you, lest I have bestowed upon you labour in vain.

Jesus had to deal with the same religous Pharisee viewpoint over and over...

Matthew 12:1, Matthew 12:10, Luke 13:14, John 5:9, John 7:23, John 9:16

We have the choice to know and live the truth of God and enter into His rest or to keep on trying, working and earning wages of sin.

Hebrews 4:2-3

2 For unto us was the gospel preached, as well as unto them: but the word preached did not profit them, not being mixed with faith in them that heard it.

3 For we which have believed do enter into rest, as he said, As I have sworn in my wrath, if they shall enter into my rest: although the works were finished from the foundation of the world.

Jesus cried from the cross "it is finished"! And that was God's plan from the very beginning.

Protection from influence

WORDs of Saving Grace - protection from influence

Proverbs 4:23  Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life.

Are there areas in your life that hurt your heart? Perhaps someone who continues to discourage and pull you down over and over? 

Maybe there is a habit which you know is not good, yet it always seems to win again and again. (Romans 7:15).

There is a way to be delivered from these "issues of life"... Purposefully remove that influence from your life, and replace it with the influence of Christ. (Romans 7:24-8:1)

There are many teachers and preachers, self help seminars and motivational speakers. But just like the guy who lives "in a van down by the river" they are not all good influence (1 John 4:1,2).

Jesus came and gave His life so that we would have a life of victory, love and peace (John 10:10, 11). Is money, possessions and prosperity bringing forth the love and peace of God in your life? If not turn away from that influence and follow Christ. (Luke 18:22).