Shows
Saved by the GospelThe Hand of the Lord is MightyListen as Marshall Halliburton shares his thoughts from I Samuel 7 and discusses the importance of monuments.2023-07-0301 minSaved by the GospelWhere Do You Look to Find Jesus?Where do you look to find Jesus today? Where is he? No, that’s not a trick question. It’s a simple question with an easy answer. But, before we answer that question, we’re going to take a few minutes to see where different people have looked for Jesus in the past.2023-01-1711 minSaved by the GospelThe Power of Positive ThinkingMost everyone has read, or at least heard of, Norman Vincent Peale’s book, “The Power of Positive Thinking.” But no book demonstrates the power of positive thinking than Numbers chapters thirteen and fourteen, an account of those spies who were sent to spy out the promised land. We remember the names of those spies who had a positive attitude, Joshua and Caleb. Yet the names of the others are soon forgotten. A positive attitude says “We can,” while a negative attitude says, “We can’t.” A positive attitude encourages others, while a negative attitude discourages others. Those with a positive attit...2023-01-1600 minSaved by the GospelI Am Fearfully and Wonderfully MadeOur body’s largest organ is our skin, a waterproof wall that keeps fluid in our bodies and prevents harmful bacteria from entering our bodies. One third of our blood circulates through our skin, where capillaries expand and contract to control our body’s temperature. Our eyes dilate when we enter a dark room, making it easier to see, yet we squint when the light is too bright. Interestingly, the eye serves as a basic model for most cameras. The average person has 206 bones. In addition to providing support and protection for our bodies, our bones store calcium, a nece...2023-01-1600 minSaved by the GospelHow Easy It is to Act Out of AngerHow easy it is to act out of anger. To speak rashly, only to later regret what was spoken. To act hastily, only to later wish you could turn back time and erase your actions. No wonder the wise man wrote, “He that isslow to wrath is of great understanding: but he that is hasty of spirit exalteth folly.” Proverbs 14:29.2023-01-1600 minSaved by the GospelThe Heavens Declare the Glory of GodThe sun is roughly 864,000 miles in diameter and is approximately 93 million miles from the earth. That’s no accident. It’s all part of God’s design. If the sun were significantly larger, or closer to the earth, the temperature of the earth would be too hot to support life. Likewise, if the sun were significantly smaller or further way from the earth, the temperature of the earth would be too cold to support life. No wonder the psalmist wrote, “The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament sheweth his handywork.” Psalm 19:1.2023-01-0900 minSaved by the GospelLonging to Be TogetherWhen someone you love is away on a trip you miss them. You long for the time they come home and you can be together again. Christians long for the time they can be at home with God. Paul wrote, “For what is our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing? Are not even ye in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at his coming?” I Thessalonians 2:19.
But have you ever thought about God longing to be together with us? Surely, He must! He loved us enough to give His Son for us so that we migh...2023-01-0700 minSaved by the GospelDo All Things Without Complaining“Do all things without complaining and disputings:” (Philippians 2:14)
Complaining is a sign of ingratitude. God delivered his people from their Egyptian bondage. Later, they complained against Moses, saying they had better food back in Egypt (Exodus 16:1-3). “Why,” they wondered, “did Moses take us into the wilderness to die of hunger?” Would they have complained had they been truly thankful for God freeing them from their slavery in Egypt?
Second, complaining is discouraging to others. The apostle Paul wrote, “Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifyin...2023-01-0700 minSaved by the GospelWhy Worship God?Our English word “worship” is often translated from two words meaning “toward” and “kiss” (or “kiss toward”). In certain cultures, it was a common practice to prostate oneself before another and kiss his feet, the hem of his garment, or the ground. This was especially done by the Persians to express reverence toward their deified kings or by the Greeks to honor their idols.
Our common English word “worship” has its origin in an old English word meaning “worth-ship.” This indicates the worth, or value, of the one being worshipped. God is worthy, or deserving, of our worship because of who h...2023-01-0700 minSaved by the GospelWith Whom Are You Walking?Do you realize your friends will help determine where you spend eternity? It’s true! Your friends can help strengthen your faith! But they can also help weaken your faith! Consider these words from Proverbs 13:20 – “Whoever walks with the wise becomes wise, but the companion of fools will suffer harm” (ESV). Your friends have a definite influence on your character. If you want to be wise, establish friendships with wise people. If you want to be a fool, establish friendships with foolish people.
This thought is repeated in the New Testament: I Corinthians 15:33 – “Do not be deceived: Bad company...2023-01-0701 minSaved by the GospelWhat Defines Your Life?While traveling out of town, I passed by a self-storage rental company. I’m sure you’ve seen them – storage units you can rent to store your belongings”
The storage rental company had a slogan on their sign – “It’s your life. Store it with care.” As far as I know, it is a reputable company providing a valuable service to its customers. But nonetheless, the slogan got my attention. Especially the first part – “It’s your life.”
My life is not defined by things. “And he said unto them, Take heed, and beware of covetousness: for a man's...2023-01-0700 minSaved by the GospelGod's Grace is No License to Sin!God’s grace is a wonderful thing. We are saved by God’s grace (Ephesians 2:8-9). In fact, Paul wrote that the more we sin the more God’s grace abounds (Romans 5:20).
But God’s grace ought not ever be abused. God’s grace never gives us a license to sin. In regard to the abundance of God’s grace, Paul also wrote, “What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound? God forbid. How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein? Know ye not, that so many of us as were...2023-01-0701 minSaved by the GospelFaith is the VictoryFaith provides the victory that overcomes the world (I John 5:4). Faith provides victory over our worries (Philippians 4:6-7). Faith provides victory over discontent, or dissatisfaction with our circumstances in life (Philippians 4:11-12 along with I Timothy 6:6-8). Most important of all, faith provides victory over death. Paul wrote, “So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory. O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory? The sting of death is si...2023-01-0700 minSaved by the GospelThe Blessing of MemoryGod has created man with the ability to remember. That’s a good thing! We ought to remember the good God has done for us. We especially ought to remember the way God has blessed us spiritually – His love, His grace, His mercy. Like every other blessing, we ought to use our memory properly. It’s a mistake to go through life remembering the wrongs others have done to us. It’s a mistake to remember the wrongs we have done to others, provided, of course, we have done what we ought to make things right and seek forgiveness from God...2023-01-0700 minSaved by the GospelWhy Is Christ Coming Again?Christ is not coming to establish an earthly kingdom. His kingdom is not an earthly kingdom and has already been established (Colossians 1:13). He is not coming to give man an opportunity to repent – man has that opportunity now. Christ is coming to raise the dead (John 5:28-29), to judge the living and the dead (II Timothy 4:1), to reward the faithful (Matthew 25:34) and to condemn those who neither know God nor obey the gospel of Christ (II Thessalonians 1:7-9). Are you ready for His coming? Do you believe Jesus offered His life and died for you? Have you repented of yo...2023-01-0700 minSaved by the GospelI Will Trust in GodAfter David killed Goliath, all Israel, loved him. When David became known for his military successes, the women sang, “Saul hath slain his thousands, and David his ten thousands.” Saul, out of jealousy, became David’s enemy. David fled to Gath. When he was recognized by one of Saul’s shepherds, David acted like a madman in order to keep from being harmed. Many think it was during this time that David wrote the 56th psalm.
David’s enemies wanted his life just as a wild animal seeks after the blood of its prey. Yet David said, “When I am afra...2023-01-0701 minSaved by the GospelWho Will Be in Hell?Who will be in hell? Unusual question, but a good question to ask. Of course, Satan and all his angels will be there (Matthew 25:41). Hell will be filled with those who know not God and do not obey the gospel of Christ (II Thessalonians 1:8), with backsliding Christians (II Peter 2:20-22), with those who are lukewarm (Revelation 3:16), with the immoral (I Corinthians 6:9-10), with the fearful (Revelation 21:8). In fact, most people will spend an eternity in hell (Matthew 7:13-14). But you CAN avoid hell by repenting of your sins (Acts 17:30) confessing your faith in Christ (Acts 8:37) being baptized into Christ...2023-01-0700 minSaved by the GospelThe Fruit of the SpiritHow different our world would be, our workplaces, our schools, our neighborhoods, even the church, if everyone constantly possessed and displayed the fruit of the Spirit! “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law” (Galatians 5:22-23). How different our world would be if everyone truly loved God and loved their fellow man, had a heart filled with joy, strove for peace with God and peace with one another, if everyone were patient with others, treated others with gentleness and goodness, and longed for a stronger fait...2023-01-0700 minSaved by the GospelBaptism, a Work of GodMany would object to baptism as being necessary for salvation, saying it is a work. Baptism is most certainly a work – it is a work of God (Colossians 2:12). When a person is baptized, God saves him from his sins (Mark 16:15-16, Titus 3:5, I Peter 3:21), washes his sins away (Acts 22:16), places that person into the body of Christ (I Corinthians 12:13) – that body is the church of Christ (Ephesians 1:23, Romans 16:16). When a person is baptized, God is busy at work, saving that person from his sins, washing his sins away, and adding him to his church! Baptism is the point at whic...2023-01-0700 minSaved by the GospelIs Your Church a Yellow Pages Church?Is your church a “Yellow Pages” church? “Well, I don’t know,” some would answer. “I don’t even know what a “Yellow Pages” church is.” Nowadays, some people may not even know what the Yellow Pages are! There are a lot of churches that are in the Yellow Pages that are not found in the Bible’s pages. In fact, not one of the denominations in existence today can be found in the scriptures. When those present on the Day of Pentecost obeyed the gospel the Lord added them to His church (Acts 2:47). To what denomination were these people added? None! Fo...2023-01-0701 minSaved by the GospelA Fool Uttereth All His Mind“A fool uttereth all his mind: but a wise man keepeth it in till afterwards.” (Proverbs 29:11) Sometimes someone, when describing another person, may say “You never have to wonder what he’s thinking. No sir. He always speaks his mind and doesn’t hold back!” Sometimes, people will even say that about themselves, as if it were something to give them reason to boast, something of which they can be proud.
But the writer of Proverbs, through his wisdom and inspiration of the Holy Spirit, reminds us there are often some things better left unspoken. This is especially t...2023-01-0701 minSaved by the GospelWhere There is No Vision, the People Perish“Where there is no vision, the people perish: but he that keepeth the law, happy is he.” (Proverbs 29:18) Before man had the completed Word, God revealed Himself to man in various ways. (Hebrews 1:1-2) Some of these ways included speaking directly to man, as He did in Adam’s case. (Genesis 3:9) God sometimes spoke through a dream, as He did with Daniel in Daniel chapter 7. Today we can all own a copy of the Bible – where God reveals His will for man in written form.
Although God’s way of revealing His will to man today is different c...2023-01-0700 minSaved by the GospelThe Richest of All Men“There is that maketh himself rich, yet hath nothing: there is that maketh himself poor, yet hath great riches.” (Proverbs 13:7) At first reading, this verse may seem like some kind of contradiction. Not at all! Many people spend their wholes lives seeing how much they can accumulate in terms of this world’s goods. They’re proud to look at their portfolio with all its stocks, bonds and 401k. Sadly, some of these same people fail to realize that they are among the poorest people of all. You see, all these things are temporary. They are very short lived and are u...2023-01-0701 minSaved by the GospelI Wish I Knew How to Play the GuitarI wish I knew how to play the guitar. I even have one. So why don’t I know how to play it? I guess I’ve never wanted to play badly enough to take the time to learn. It’s hard! Seem funny? Maybe. But I know I’ll never know how to play until I take the time, and put forth the effort, to learn.
Bible study can be a lot like that. I’ve heard people say they wish they had a greater knowledge of the scriptures. But sadly, they often don’t desire this knowled...2023-01-0700 minSaved by the GospelThe Lord is My RockFrom Psalm 18:1-3 “I will love thee, O LORD, my strength. The LORD is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust; my buckler, and the horn of my salvation, and my high tower. I will call upon the LORD, who is worthy to be praised: so shall I be saved from mine enemies.”
This short text includes no less than eight expressions that describe the refuge God provides for His people - rock, fortress, deliverer, my God, strength, buckler, the horn of my salvation and my high towe...2023-01-0700 minSaved by the GospelAnd the People Answered AmenA great lesson can be learned from Nehemiah 8:1-12. The people gathered as one man. Unity among God’s people is as important today as it was in Nehemiah’s day. The people wanted Ezra to "bring the book," indicating they had a desire to hear God’s word.
Attention was given to God’s word. The Bible will be of benefit to us today only if we pay attention to what we read, realizing it can be understood.
Consider their attitude. The people stood, indicating they had an attitude of reverence toward the word of God...2023-01-0700 minSaved by the GospelHeaven, What a Wonderful PlaceIt’s unlike anything you’ve ever experienced on earth. Heaven, that is. Consider what Peter has to say about heaven in I Peter 1:3-5. Peter describes our inheritance in heaven as incorruptible – the passage of time can never cause it to corrode or decay. It’s undefiled – totally pure. No sin, not even a hint of sin, will ever enter therein. It does not fade away – we will never tire of its beauty. Heaven, what a wonderful place. I wouldn’t miss it for the world!2023-01-0700 minSaved by the GospelDanger of Improper Judging“Judge not, that you be not judged. For with the judgment you pronounce you will be judged, and with the measure you use it will be measured to you. Why do you see the speck that is in your brother's eye, but do not notice the log that is in your own eye? Or how can you say to your brother, ‘Let me take the speck out of your eye,’ when there is the log in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the log out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to take the speck...2023-01-0700 minSaved by the GospelRighteousness Exalts a NationIn the midst of our country’s discussion concerning school shootings, abortion, homosexual relationships and even same sex marriages, it would do us well to remember the inspired words from Proverbs 14:34, “Righteousness exalteth a nation: but sin is a reproach to any people.” The answer to our problems is really not difficult: welcome God back into our society and exalt him as Lord. Accept God's Holy Word as the only legitimate standard of right and wrong. Recognize and respect the value of life. Unless and until that happens, we will continue to spiral downward.2023-01-0700 minSaved by the GospelSin, a Poison to Your SoulThe image of a skull and cross bones is often used to depict danger and death. It has been seen in a variety of places, from flags of pirate ships to poison bottles. Wouldn’t it be nice if sin came in a bottle labeled with a skull and cross bones? Maybe then people would realize the deadly nature of sin, for it really is a poison to the soul. James wrote, “Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God: for God cannot be tempted with evil, neither tempteth he any man: But every man...2023-01-0700 minSaved by the GospelI am the Light of the World“I am the light of the world, he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life” (John 8:12.) It is only right that Jesus would describe himself as the light of the world.
Light serves as a guide. Lights along an airport runway are used to enable an airplane to safely land. Lights are used on the ocean to guide a ship safely into harbor. Turning on a light allows us to walk safely across a room rather than stumble and trip in the dark. Jesus serves as a guide for us...2023-01-0700 minSaved by the GospelNaaman, a Great, Angry and Cleansed ManIn II Kings 5:1-14 we read about a man named Naaman. Naaman was a great and honorable man. But he was a leper. When a messenger from God told Naaman he could be cleansed of his leprosy by dipping in the Jordan River seven times, he became angry. Naaman had expected some great thing to happen, thus cleansing him of his leprosy. Eventually, however, Naaman did as he was told and was cleansed of his leprosy. He was cleansed by the power of God. I know of no one who would claim that Naaman was cleansed by the power o...2023-01-0700 minSaved by the GospelJesus Loves Me, This I KnowJesus Loves Me, This I Know, For the Bible Tells Me So. We often think of this song as one for little children. But notice the line, “Jesus loves me, loves me still, though I’m very weak and ill, from His shining throne on high, looks down on me where I lie.”
In truth, this is a song for people of all ages. It’s comforting to know that, from the time we come into this world til the time we take our dying breath, Jesus loves us, this we know!2023-01-0700 minSaved by the GospelThe Faith of HabakkukWhat would it take for you to lose your faith? To walk away from God? Severe economic downturn, perhaps the loss of your income? Personal heartbreak or a family crisis? To be diagnosed with a terminal illness? The death of someone dear to you?
The prophet Habakkuk felt that God was not listening. He incorrectly thought that God was inactive in men’s lives. Yet, notice Habakkuk’s words from Habakkuk 3:17-18 - “Although the fig tree shall not blossom, neither shall fruit be in the vines; the labour of the olive shall fail, and the fields shall...2023-01-0700 minSaved by the GospelThere's No Such Thing as Just Another DayHave you ever met someone at the end of the day and asked them, “How was your day today,” only for them to respond, “Oh, it was just another day.” The phrase, “It was just another day” seems to minimize the significance of the day. It seems to express the thought that the day was somewhat trivial with nothing special about it. There is no such thing as “Just Another Day” in God’s eyes, nor should there be in ours.
Because life is a blessing from God, each day that extends our life is also a blessing from God...2023-01-0701 minSaved by the GospelI am of All Men Most Joyful“If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men most miserable.” (1 Corinthians 15:19) Have you ever read this verse and thought the opposite is also true? No, I don’t mean the opposite of what Paul wrote. But the same thought expressed in an opposite manner. Have you ever read this verse and thought, “If we have hope beyond this life, we are of all men most joyful!” It’s true! Christians have every reason to rejoice. Christians are justified before God because of their obedient faith. They have peace with God through Jesus Christ. Thei...2023-01-0700 minSaved by the GospelPaul, From Persecutor to ServantPrior to Paul's conversion he was a blasphemer, a persecutor and was injurious to the church. I Timothy 1:13. He would often take the Lord's disciples captive and have them put to death. Acts Chapter 9. But in Philippians 1:1 he identified as a servant of Christ.
Why the difference? Paul is a wonderful demonstration of the power of the gospel and its ability to change men's hearts. His life is an example for us that cannot be ignored! The gospel is God's power to save men and change their minds and hearts.
Question that I must ask...2023-01-0700 minSaved by the GospelI Have Counted All Things But Loss“If anyone else thinks he may have confidence in the flesh, I more so: circumcised the eighth day, of the stock of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of the Hebrews; concerning the law, a Pharisee; concerning zeal, persecuting the church; concerning the righteousness which is in the law, blameless. But what things were gain to me, these I have counted loss for Christ. Yet indeed I also count all things loss for the excellence of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and count them as ru...2023-01-0701 minSaved by the GospelWhy Are So Many Afraid to Call it Sin?"He that justifieth the wicked, and he that condemneth the just, even they both are abomination to the Lord" (Proverbs 17:15). This verse serves to remind us of those who are increasingly quick to go to great lengths to lessen the atrocity of sin. But no matter what man may call sin, God still considers it sin. Man has the ability to decide to do right or wrong. But man does not have the right to decide what is right or wrong. That is to be left up to God. No matter what man calls sin, sin still separates man...2023-01-0701 minSaved by the GospelA Maintenance Schedule For Your SoulHave you ever considered that many people give more attention to maintaining their car than they do their soul? When it comes to their automobile, they may rotate the tires and check the tire pressure regularly, check the oil level and make sure the belts and hoses are in good shape. After all, a car can be very expensive to replace.
But your soul is of far greater value than your car and, more importantly, your soul cannot be replaced! How much attention do you give to your time in worshipping God? In talking to God in...2023-01-0700 minSaved by the GospelBehold, the Lamb of God‘The next day John seeth Jesus coming unto him, and saith, Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.” John 1:29. John’s statement concerning Jesus is short and simple. Yet it holds several lessons for us. First, John refers to Jesus as the Lamb of God. The very purpose for Jesus coming to earth was to offer himself as a sacrifice for our sin. Second, Jesus is the Lamb of God, meaning Jesus was sent by God. Third, Jesus takes away our sin. He is the only sacrifice that can take away our sin. He doe...2023-01-0700 minSaved by the GospelI Will Hold Thy Right HandCan you remember, as a small child, being in a large crowd with one of your parents? Maybe it was while walking across a parking lot after watching a ball game, looking for your car among hundreds of other cars. You did your best to keep up with the crowd. Being much shorter than others around you, all you could see was legs! You may have been unsure as to where you were and certainly did not understand how to get home. You felt safe as long as you were holding your father’s (or mother’s) hand.
In...2023-01-0700 minSaved by the GospelLike Counting Grains of SandHave you ever wondered how many grains of sand are in one cup of sand? (Yeah, I know, you’re probably thinking, “Are you nuts? I’ve got a lot more important things to think about!”) Jochem Hendricks, along with twelve assistants, spent one thousand hours counting 3,281,579 grains in one cup of sand! The object of his efforts are now on display in Frankfurt Museum of Applied Arts.
Imagine man trying to count the number of grains of sand on a mile long stretch of beach. Impossible! Of course! But not any more so than trying to count th...2023-01-0700 minSaved by the GospelToward Whose Hand Are You Reaching?On August 5th, 2010, 700,000 tons of rock collapsed at a copper-gold mine in Chile. Workers labored around the clock to save the thirty-three men trapped far below the surface of the earth. The faces of those rescued were full of joy as they were brought up from the dark, humid mine; their lungs filled with fresh air for the first time in 69 days. Once inside the rescue capsule, the 2,000 foot ascent to the surface of the earth took approximately 20 minutes. Mario Sepulveda, one of the rescued miners, said, “I think I had extraordinary luck. I was with God and with th...2023-01-0701 minSaved by the GospelWould You Call 911?If your house were on fire, would you call 911? Of course, you would! If someone in your family were seriously hurt and needed help, would you call for an ambulance? Definitely! We would all call for help if we needed it.
When the multitude came to the Garden of Gethsemane to take Jesus to be crucified, one of those who were with Jesus took out his sword and struck one of the high priest’s servants, cutting off his ear. Jesus then told him, “Put up again thy sword into his place: for all they that take the...2023-01-0700 minSaved by the GospelSix Feet and One InchFinally! I finally figured it out! At last I’ve been able to measure the distance between God and the world. God and the world are six feet and one inch apart. You’re probably wondering how I was able to measure that distance accurately. Easy! When I extend both of my arms out as far as possible, the distance from one fingertip to the other is six feet. The obvious conclusion is that God and the earth are six feet and one inch apart; just far enough that I can’t hold onto one without letting go of the ot...2023-01-0700 minSaved by the GospelWhich Church?In Acts chapter two, we read that 3,000 souls were added to the Lord’s church when they heard and believed the gospel, repented of their sin, confessed their faith and were baptized in order to receive the forgiveness of their sin. To what church were they added? Certainly, they were not added to any of the denominations that exist today, for none of these denominations existed at the time the events of Acts two took place. Can you imagine Paul being a Baptist, Peter a Methodist and Luke a Presbyterian? Such confusion would not be acceptable to God then; and it...2023-01-0701 minSaved by the GospelWhat Is Your Perception of God?What is your perception of God? Do you see Him as someone who passively watches this world? Someone who is disinterested in the events of your life? If so, you need to change your idea of God?
God is very much interested in you! He knows when you are at the top of the mountains of life and when you are in the bottom of life’s valleys. More importantly, He doesn’t just know, He cares. He cares enough to rejoice with you in times of smooth sailing, and to strengthen you in times of stormy seas...2023-01-0700 minSaved by the GospelThe Change of SeasonsI have a maple tree in my front yard. The leaves at the top of the tree are beginning to change color, just as they do every year. Soon, the bright colors, yellow, orange and red, will start to work their way down until the entire tree is engulfed in God’s beautiful artwork, artwork that only God can create. It’s that time of year when we will soon be experiencing the change of season. Leaves will fall and temperatures will be cooler.
What makes this so special? After all, it happens every year. It’s very s...2023-01-0700 minSaved by the GospelCalling on the Name of the LordIn Acts chapter two, when the people were gathered together to hear the apostles preach, Peter quoted from Joel chapter two, saying, “And it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be saved” (Acts 2:21).
Evidently, Peter’s listeners failed to understand what it meant to call on the name of the Lord, for in Acts 2:37, after already being told to call on the name of the Lord, they asked “What shall we do?” Peter told them “Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for t...2023-01-0700 minSaved by the GospelYe Shall Hold Your PeaceIn Exodus 14, we read about the Israelites and their deliverance from Egyptian bondage. As they come to the Red Sea, they saw the Egyptians marching after them. They felt trapped. They blamed Moses, even going so far as to say. “Didn’t we tell you this would happen? Why did you take us all the way out here to die? Were there no graves back in Egypt?”
Moses replied, “Fear not, stand still, and see the salvation of the Lord, which he will show to you today. For the Egyptians whom you have seen today, you shall see them...2023-01-0700 minSaved by the GospelI Am Fearfully and Wonderfully MAdeOur bodies are convincing evidence for the existence of God. Our skeletal system, muscular system, digestive system, nervous system, and circulatory system all serve to prove there is a God!
Consider the heart - a pump with a built in motor. This involuntary muscle beats about 100,000 times a day, pumping some 1,800 gallons of blood through its chambers. The blood is pumped through an amazing pipeline system (arteries, veins, and capillaries) which, if tied end to end, would stretch out for some 60,000 to 100,000 miles! Does anyone really think the underground pipeline system below large cities developed themselves? It...2023-01-0700 minSaved by the GospelWhy Read the Bible? Part 1Why read the Bible? That’s a fair question to ask. We ought to want to read the Bible because it is the word of God. The apostle Paul wrote, “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works” (II Timothy 3:16-17).
The scriptures are inspired by God, meaning they are “God breathed.” They have come to us through the mind and mouth of God. The Bible is God’s way of communica...2023-01-0700 minSaved by the GospelWhy Read the Bibles? Part 2If a child does not grow physically, the parent realizes something is wrong. The parent becomes troubled, distraught. Have you ever wondered how, as Christians, we disappoint God when we fail to grow?
Peter wrote, “As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby:” (I Peter 2:2). Too often we limit the application of this verse to newer Christians. But no Christian, no matter how long he, or she, has been a Christian, should ever lose the desire to grow. The desire to become more spiritually mature. It’s God’s word, the scri...2023-01-0700 minSaved by the GospelWhy Read the Bible? Part 3Countless number of self-help books are written every year, yet none can even begin to compare with the help the Bible provides. No book written by man can ever provide the guidance we need to navigate through the obstacles of life. Imagine walking in the dark, stumbling along the way, misstep after misstep. Always bumping into things, unable to see, never getting where you want to go.
That’s what life is like without the Bible. Stumbling along in the dark, misstep after misstep, never reaching our destination. No wonder the psalmist wrote, “Thy word isa lamp unto...2023-01-0700 minSaved by the GospelWhy Read the Bibles? Part 4Why read the Bible? One very good reason is it helps us overcome temptation. How so? When we read God’s word, commit it to memory and keep it in our hearts, we are strengthened and able to overcome Satan’s attacks. We are reminded of the evils of sin and its horrible consequences. We become constantly aware of God’s love for us and his longing for us to be with Him in heaven. When we spend time in God’s word as we ought, we learn to hate every evil and false way. No wonder the psalmist wrote, “...2023-01-0700 minSaved by the GospelWhy Read the Bible? Part 5You and I are going to face the judgment one day. I say that with absolute certainty. It’s inevitable. Not one of us is exempt. Paul wrote that we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ. II Corinthians 5:10.
Doesn’t it only make sense that we ought to know the standard by which we will be judged? By the way, that standard is not what you sometimes hear from men! In John 12:48, Jesus said “He that rejecteth me, and receiveth not my words, hath one that judgeth him: the word that I have spoken, the sa...2023-01-0700 minSaved by the GospelHell a Most Unpopular TopicHell. Not a popular topic, I know. But too important for any of us to ignore. It’s the place where Satan will be along with all his angels. Matthew 25:41. It’s a place where those who do not Know God and do not obey the gospel will experience everlasting destruction. II Thessalonians 1:8. It’s a place lukewarm Christians will inhabit. Revelation 3:16. Hell is a place where those who were once faithful Christians but have become unfaithful will spend eternity. II Peter 2:20-22. It is a place where punishment will continue day and night forever. Revelation 20:10. Hell will be withou...2023-01-0701 minSaved by the GospelWhen I Survey the Wondrous Cross (03) - I See the Power of the BloodIt removes an ugly scarlet stain and makes it white as snow. It frees us from the bondage of sin. It's what makes the forgiveness of our sins possible. What can do all this? Nothing but the blood of Jesus! Jesus' blood has a power far beyond the blood of any ordinary man! It simply does what no other blood can do!2022-11-1419 minSaved by the GospelAre You a Slave?Are you a slave? Many would object to even being asked this question. But the reality is, everyone of us are slaves. “Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness?” (Romans 6:16).
Did you hear that? You are either a servant of sin or a servant of righteousness? As Christians, we have been set free from the bondage of sin and have become servants of righteousness. Notice Paul’s words from verses seventeen and eighteen of Romans...2022-11-0700 minSaved by the GospelHere I Raise My EbenezerIn First Samuel 17, we read of the Philistines and their efforts to attack the Israelites. Samuel then sacrificed a lamb to God and prayed for the Israelites’ deliverance. As Samuel was offering the sacrifice, the Philistines drew near, anxious to attack.
The Israelites were successful in driving the Philistines away. The Philistines, subdued and defeated, did not come into the Israelites territory anymore. Samuel then took a stone, set it up between Mizpah and Shen, and called the stone Ebenezer, saying, “Thus far the Lord has helped us.” Samuel erected Ebenezer, the “stone of help,” as a memorial i...2022-11-0700 minSaved by the GospelTalk to Someone With PowerGreat things are accomplished when we talk to someone with power. When I pray to God, I talk to someone who has the greatest power of all. God has the power to create the world from nothing (Genesis 1:1-33). God has the power to part the Red Sea, allowing Moses and the others to cross on dry ground (Exodus 14:21). God has the power to cause the walls of Jericho to fall (Joshua 6:20). God has the power to enable David, while only a young boy, to overcome Goliath, a mighty giant (I Samuel 17:1-51). God has the power to raise...2022-11-0700 minSaved by the GospelBetter Than I DeserveI once had a friend greet me with the commonly heard phrase, “How are you doing.” I responded, “Much better than I deserve.” My friend gave me a rather odd look and said, “Well, that may be; only you know what you’ve been doing.” It seemed that he took my words, “Much better than I deserve,” as an admission of some sort of wrong-doing. Not at all! When a Christian considers how he is doing, he realizes that he really is doing much better than he deserves.
Who among us deserves God’s love? Yet, God loves us anyway! Sec...2022-11-0700 minSaved by the GospelDown For the Count!If someone hast lost a struggle, it can be said that they are "down for the count," like a boxer who has been knocked out. Thankfully, no Christian is ever down for the count, because faith in God ensures that no struggle is ever lost.
What struggle can separate us from the love of Christ? What struggle can overcome the power we have through Christ? What struggle is so distracting that it can draw our attention away from heaven? What struggle is so troubling it can cause God to stop caring for you?
The next...2022-11-0700 minSaved by the GospelNot Distracted By DistractionsOn June 15, 2012, Nik Wallenda became the first person to walk across the Niagara Falls on a high wire. It would be a huge understatement to say the crossing wasn’t easy. As Nik described it, “That mist was thick. It was hard to see at times…..the wind was wild. It would come at me one way and hit me in the front, and then hit me from the back.” As for the distractions, including wind gusts and helicopters, Nik said, “I’ve trained all my life not to be distracted by distractions.”
Along our journey to heaven, we enc...2022-11-0700 minSaved by the GospelI Thank My God Upon Every Remembrance of You“I thank my God upon every remembrance of you,” (Philippians 1:3). We have all been blessed in many ways and have much for which to be thankful. Yet one of our greatest blessings of all is our fellowship with other Christians. The next time you thank God for all He has done, thank Him for making you a part of His family.2022-11-0700 minSaved by the GospelTo Live is Christ, To Die is GainMost people shy away from thinking about their death, much less talking about it. It puts fear in the minds of many and dread in their hearts. In Philippians 1:21 Paul wrote, “For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.” You heard that right! Paul said that, for a Christian, death is profitable. When a Christian dies he has much to gain. He gains a better body – one no longer subject to sickness, death and decay. A better home – a home with God and all His people. A better environment – away from the sin and sorrow we so ofte...2022-11-0700 minSaved by the GospelWhy Do You Go to Work?Why do you go to work? That question is easy enough! To pay my bills. To buy groceries. I go to work to support myself and my family! Have you ever thought that you go to work, not only to provide for the needs of you and your family, but to help others who are in need. In Ephesians 4:28 Paul wrote, “Let him that stole steal no more: but rather let him labour, working with his hands the thing which is good, that he may have to give to him that needeth.” How will you use part of your earn...2022-11-0700 minSaved by the GospelIsn't It Great to Be a Christian?Christians, more than anyone else on earth, have real, meaningful reasons to have a positive outlook toward life. From Romans 5:1-2 we know that Christians are justified by faith. We have peace with God. We have access to God’s grace. We rejoice in hope. Isn’t it great to be a Christian?2022-11-0700 minSaved by the GospelBoast Not of TomorrowPeople have a tendency to boast of their great plans for their future. But before we become too confident of our future, we need to remember that none of us can know with any certainty what the future holds. “Boast not thyself of tomorrow; for thou knowest not what a day may bring forth.” (Proverbs 27:1)2022-11-0700 minSaved by the GospelIs the Church Important to You?Is the church important to you? Well, not very, you say. Oh I love God. I know Jesus is my Savior. I just don’t care for all that “church” stuff. No, the church just isn’t all that important to me.
The church is important enough to God that it was on his mind from all eternity, long before the world ever began (Ephesians 3:9-11). The church was important enough to the Holy Spirit that He inspired the prophets to write about it long before the church had its beginning (Joel 2, Daniel 2, Isaiah 2). The church was importan...2022-11-0700 minSaved by the GospelThankful For a MulliganI’m not much of a golfer. I guess that’s why I was always thankful for a mulligan. A mulligan is “a shot not counted against the score, permitted in unofficial play to a player whose previous shot was poor.” In simple terms, if you hit the ball poorly you can try again and you don’t have to count the first shot!
I’m thankful for a second chance to hit the ball when playing golf; but I’m even more thankful that God has given me a second chance when it comes to my sins. God has...2022-11-0700 minSaved by the GospelAre You Properly Dressed?Were you properly dressed when you left the house this morning? I’m not talking about modesty or immodesty. I’m not talking about making sure your colors are coordinated or whether you are dressed too casually or too formal.
When you left the house this morning, were you dressed with the full armor of God? The apostle Paul wrote, “Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the da...2022-11-0700 minSaved by the GospelSave Me a Place!Have you ever planned to be somewhere but knew you couldn’t be there on time? Perhaps you called and told the rest of your family to go on without you; you would meet them later. Before you hung up the phone you reminded them, “Save me a place!”
Jesus told his disciples, “Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. 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. And if I go and prepar...2022-11-0700 minSaved by the GospelIt's Good to Give ThanksThe psalmist wrote, “It is a good thing to give thanks unto the LORD, and to sing praises unto thy name, O most High: To shew forth thy lovingkindness in the morning, and thy faithfulness every night,” (Psalms 92:1-2).
It is good to give thanks to God because God deserves it. There is not one good thing you will enjoy today that did not come from God (James 1:16-17).
It is good to give thanks because it benefits us. When we consider our blessings, we concentrate on what we have, rather than what we do not...2022-11-0700 minSaved by the GospelThe Best Thing About TodayDo you know what the best thing about today is? It’s not what you’re going to have for lunch. It’s not anything you’re going to do this afternoon. It’s not some movie you may watch tonight.
The best thing about today is that God will shower you with his love from morning to night. Little children sing about it, the elderly find comfort in it, those who suffer trust in it, skeptics doubt it, and atheists deny it; but God’s love for man continues to shine with the brightness of the noonday sun...2022-11-0700 minSaved by the GospelI'm Thankful for Rear View MirrorsI’m glad cars have rear view mirrors. You can use them when backing up or, before you pass someone, check to see if someone is passing you! While rear view mirrors are great for seeing what is behind you, no sensible driver would remain constantly focused on his rearview mirror.
Life is a lot like that, isn’t it? No sensible Christian will constantly look behind him; remaining focused on the past. Can you imagine the disastrous results? A life of continual guilt, regret over bad decisions and poor judgment, and steady thoughts of “what might have b...2022-11-0701 minSaved by the GospelMindful of Our InfluenceInfluence can be defined as “spiritual or moral capacity by which we have an effect upon a person.” Each of us influences other people in one way or another all throughout life. Our influence on others begins at the time we are born. We continue to influence others when we are old. It is not possible to ever quit having an influence on others.
It is possible for us to have a negative influence on others. But it is also possible for us to have a positive influence on others. In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus pict...2022-11-0700 minSaved by the GospelYour Greatest Need!What is your greatest need? It’s a simple question. But the answers you get will vary depending upon whom you ask. The unemployed man will tell you his greatest need is a job. The man living in poverty will tell you his greatest need is money. The man dying from a terminal illness will tell you his greatest need is good health.
But none of these things, a job, money, or health, is man’s greatest need. Man’s greatest need is God’s forgiveness! That forgiveness comes when you believe the gospel of Jesus Christ (Mark 16...2022-11-0700 minSaved by the GospelThe Blessing of a Fresh StartWhen I was in school, teachers sent report cards home with the students to be signed by their parents. I suppose this was supposed to serve as evidence that the parents had been sufficiently informed as to how well (or not so well) their child was doing in school. I always enjoyed the beginning of a new grade reporting period. I could forget the mistakes of the past and start fresh with a clean slate.
God’s forgiveness is like that! It enables us to make a fresh start; to forget the mistakes of our past and st...2022-11-0700 minSaved by the GospelNever Underestimate the Power of GodGod created the world from nothing (Genesis 1:1); parted the Red Sea and allowed His people to pass through on dry ground and unharmed (Exodus 14:19-22); He caused the walls of Jericho to fall down (Joshua 6:20-21); He enabled David to kill Goliath (I Samuel 17:45-49); God took care of Daniel while he was in the lion’s den (Daniel 6:22); He cared for Jeremiah while he was in a dungeon (Jeremiah 38:7-13); God watched over Paul and Silas while they were imprisoned (Acts 16:25-28) and He even raised Lazarus from the dead (John 17:44).
What do you have going on...2022-11-0700 minSaved by the GospelThere’s a War Raging, And You're In It!There’s a war raging. Oh you won’t hear any gunfire. No missiles soaring overhead. No grenades being tossed in your direction.
There is a war raging over your soul. Just as much as God wants you to be with him in heaven, Satan wants you to spend eternity with him in hell. “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour” (I Peter 5:8). And he will do whatever it takes to make that happen.
Satan will try to trap us; deceive us; discoura...2022-11-0700 minSaved by the GospelAn Inheritance in HeavenWill you receive an inheritance when YOU die? You must be thinking, “Nonsense, that’s not possible.” Think again! If you are a Christian, you have an inheritance waiting for you. Peter wrote, “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not way, reserved in heaven for you” (I Peter 1:3-4).
Jesus’ resurrection makes the inheritance that awaits the Christian in heaven possible. To...2022-11-0700 minSaved by the GospelGod Will Leave the Light On For YouMost of us remember the Motel 6 commercials with Tom Bodet. Tom would end each commercial with the line – “We’ll even leave the light on for ya.” The phrase was his way of saying, “You are always welcome here.”
You remember the parable of the prodigal son in Luke chapter 15. The son asked for his inheritance and, after receiving it, wasted it. He soon found himself broke. He decided to go back home and ask his father if he could be one of his servants.
When the prodigal returned, his father did not give him a stern rebu...2022-11-0701 minSaved by the GospelI Saw the Sun Come Up TodayI saw the sun come up this morning. “What’s so surprising about that?” you ask. Nothing! But, while a sunrise is not surprising, it is encouraging. The prophet Jeremiah wrote, “It is of the Lord’s mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness. The Lord is my portion, saith my soul; therefore will I hope in him” (Lamentations 3:22-23).
Every day you see that big orange ball rise from the horizon, remember that it is another day to experience God’s compassion. Every new day is an...2022-11-0700 minSaved by the GospelBe Careful For NothingThere is no better way to deal with the cares of life than what we find in Philippians 4:6-7. "Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus."
In a very few words Paul defines the problem (worry), provides the solution (prayer), and shows us the end result (the peace of God).2022-11-0700 minSaved by the GospelForget Not His BenefitsSome things, like forgetting where you laid your reading glasses, can be forgotten without any real significance. Forgetting other things, like someone’s birthday, have greater consequences. Other things, if forgotten, like forgetting to take your medicine, can have very serious consequences. But none of these lapses in memory can begin to compare with forgetting what God has done for us. “Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits:” (Psalm 103:2).2022-11-0700 minSaved by the GospelLet Your Heart Be Filled With JoyWhen you became a Christian heaven was filled with joy (Luke 15:10). Now that you are a Christian, allow heaven to fill your heart with joy. “Be glad in the LORD, and rejoice, ye righteous: and shout for joy, all ye that are upright in heart.” (Psalm 32:11)2022-11-0700 minSaved by the GospelLive in Such a Way That Others Can Copy YouWe have all heard someone say “Do as I say, not as I do.” Perhaps you have even said that yourself. Paul told others to do as he did. Bold statement? Maybe. But Paul could tell others to imitate him because he imitated Christ. Would you be willing to let others do as you do in regard to your speech, your thoughts, your deeds? “Be ye followers of me, even as I also am of Christ.” (1 Corinthians 11:1)2022-11-0700 minSaved by the GospelHope to See You ThereChristians enjoy being with other Christians. We enjoy seeing each other when we come together to worship. When we come together for a meal or just meet for a cup of coffee and conversation. But none of these things are our greatest joy. The apostle Paul wrote, “For what is our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing? Are not even ye in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at his coming?” (1 Thessalonians 2:19) Our greatest hope, our greatest joy is to see one another in heaven. Hope to see you there!2022-11-0700 minSaved by the GospelDon't Let the World Make Play Doh Out of YouMost of us remember playing with Play-Doh when we were kids. Play-Doh is a modeling compound that can be shaped into cars, flowers, dinosaurs – just about anything a kid can imagine.
If we’re not careful, we will allow the world to make play-doh out of us! The world is constantly trying to influence us. Always trying to mold us into what it wants us to be. Satan would love to shape you into what he wants you to be – your thoughts, your speech, your focus – you name it, everything about you! Don’t let him do it! “And b...2022-11-0700 minSaved by the GospelWhat Does God See When He Looks at Your Heart?Doctors use a procedure, called a heart cath, to exam how well your heart is working. A catheter is inserted into a large artery, often at the wrist. Contrast dye is then injected into the heart, in effect, creating a “movie x-ray.” The doctor uses these images to look for blockages in the arteries.
What does God see when He looks at your heart? Does He see a heart that trusts in Him (Psalm 28:7)? Does He see a heart where His word is hidden (Psalm 119:11)? Does He see a heart that is pure (Matthew 5:8)? Does He see a he...2022-11-0701 minSaved by the GospelYou Must First Die to SelfPaul wrote that to live is Christ (Philippians 1:21). Our purpose for living is to submit to Christ’s will for our lives while making Christ known to others. Too many times we forget that living for Christ necessitates that we first die to self. “I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.” (Galatians 2:20)2022-11-0700 minSaved by the GospelHow Should You React?Anyone with even a minuscule sense of right and wrong can see we are living in a sinful world. Men are marrying men and women are marrying women. In the United States alone, hundreds of thousands of unborn babies are murdered each year. Some of our larger cities experience hundreds of murders per year. Many businesses tolerate lying if it improves their profit. The use of illegal drugs is a regular practice for many.
How should Christians react? Become discouraged? Never! Give in? Certainly not! How then, should Christian react? The apostle Paul wrote, “Do all things wi...2022-11-0701 minSaved by the GospelDon't Let Your Roots Grow Too Deep!Imagine someone living in several towns over a period of only a few years. Maybe he was in the military and was stationed at a number of bases in various parts of the world. They look forward to the time when they can “put down roots.” To “put down roots” simply means to move to a place where you want to live and settle down. You make new friends and become involved in new activities there so that it starts to feel like home.
Does that sound like a good idea to you? Maybe. But I would add this...2022-11-0700 minSaved by the GospelTh Lord Will Fight for YouSome days can be very stressful, some days not so much, and some days can be a breeze. But whatever life throws your way, God will see you through it. Remember, we serve the same God who led His people through the Red Sea. Stand still and see the salvation of the Lord. He will fight for you. Exodus 14:1-142022-11-0700 minSaved by the GospelWhen Opportunity KnocksWe’ve all heard the phrase, “When opportunity knocks, be prepared to take it.” “When opportunity knocks” may refer to the chance a person has to do something they’ve wanted to do for quite some time – perhaps take a trip to a faraway place. Maybe a chance to advance your career - perhaps being promoted at your workplace or accepting the job you’ve always wanted. Be prepared to seize an opportunity when it comes your way!
Satan also understands the importance of seizing an opportunity when it comes along. We should always be sober-minded and watchful because...2022-11-0700 minSaved by the GospelHow Will You Use Your Tongue Today?How will you use your tongue today? “Haven’t really given it much thought,” you say. You should! Our tongues can be improperly used in a number of negative ways. A person’s tongue can be used to incite anger (Proverbs 15:1), speak lies (Ephesians 4:25), violate another person’s trust (Proverbs 11:13), or participate in gossip (I Timothy 5:13).
Thankfully, our tongues can also be used for good. We can use our tongues to speak the truth or tell others of our faith (Romans 10:9-10), honor God (Hebrews 13:15), encourage others (Ephesians 4:29), and spread God’s word (Psalm 119:172).
How will you use...2022-11-0700 minSaved by the GospelWhen I Survey the Wondrous Cross, Part Two - I See the Love of ChristWhat do you see when you see the cross of Christ? Jesus said the greatest love anyone could have for another would be to lay down his life for his friends (John 15:14). When I survey the wondrous cross, I see Jesus love for all men. I especially see Jesus' love for me!2022-10-1520 minSaved by the GospelWhen I Survey the Wondrous Cross, Part One - I See The Obedience of ChristWhat do you see when you look at the cross? A simple outline of a body hanging on the cross? A cross made from rough pieces of wood? The people gathered around the cross, watching with curiosity as the events take place?
We could all list several things that come to mind when we see the cross. But, when I take time to adequately survey the wondrous cross, I see the obedience of Christ. I also realize how Christ's obedience is an example for me today.2022-10-0709 min