No “Accidents” / Only “Incidents”

There are no “accidents” in the lives of Christians, only “incidents.” They are designed to give us an opportunity to display before other believers and non-believers the “Fruit of the Spirit” which is Christlikeness (Galatians 5:22, 23). Question – will we pass or fail the test that is given to us? Will we demonstrate our “agape” love for God and earn “The Crown of Life” (James 1:12)?

James, the Lord’s half-brother (Matthew 13:35), wrote these words to Jewish Christians who were experiencing severe hardships and trials in life (James 1). The Apostle Paul wrote, “…all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution” (2 Timothy 3:12). Jesus said, “They will put you out of the synagogues; yes, the time is coming that whoever kills you will think that he offers God service” (John 16:2). But such suffering is not worth comparing to the glory that shall be revealed in us (Romans 8:18).

Since we who are Gentile Christians are one with Jewish Christians (Galatians 3:28, 29), we can apply these words to ourselves too (Ephesians 4:4-6; 1 Corinthians 12:12-14). BTW – The Church has NOT replaced Israel. God is not finished with the Jewish nation. (See 1 Corinthians 10:32; Romans 11). [1]

Profiting from Trials

2 My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, 3 knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. 4 But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing. 5 If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him. 6 But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for he who doubts is like a wave of the sea driven and tossed by the wind. 7 For let not that man suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord; 8 he is a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways.

The Perspective of Rich and Poor

9 Let the lowly brother glory in his exaltation, 10 but the rich in his humiliation, because as a flower of the field he will pass away. 11 For no sooner has the sun risen with a burning heat than it withers the grass; its flower falls, and its beautiful appearance perishes. So the rich man also will fade away in his pursuits.

Loving God Under Trials

12 Blessed is the man who endures temptation; for when he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him. 13 Let no one say when he is tempted, “I am tempted by God”; for God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does He Himself tempt anyone. 14 But each one is tempted when he is drawn away by his own desires and enticed. 15 Then, when desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin [lawlessness – 1 John 3:4]; and sin, when it is full-grown, brings forth death.

16 Do not be deceived, my beloved brethren. 17 Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow of turning. 18 Of His own will He brought us forth by the word of truth, that we might be a kind of firstfruits of His creatures.

Qualities Needed in Trials

19 So then, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath; 20 for the wrath of man does not produce the righteousness of God.

Doers—Not Hearers Only

21 Therefore lay aside all filthiness and overflow of wickedness, and receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls.

22 But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves. 23 For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man observing his natural face in a mirror; 24 for he observes himself, goes away, and immediately forgets what kind of man he was. 25 But he who looks into the perfect law of liberty and continues in it, and is not a forgetful hearer but a doer of the work, this one will be blessed in what he does.

26 If anyone among you thinks he is religious, and does not bridle his tongue but deceives his own heart, this one’s religion is useless. 27 Pure and undefiled religion before God and the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their trouble, and to keep oneself unspotted from the world.

Lessons

What valuable lessons do you believe God is trying to teach you through your trials? Write them down on a sheet of paper or in your journal. Share them with a few people to encourage and edify them (2 Corinthians 1:3, 4; 1 Thessalonians 5:11). Let God develop His character (the “Fruit of the Spirit”) through you so others can learn more about your God. This is a way for believers to glorify God (1 Corinthians 10:31).

Help

We’re here to assist those who are teachable, willing to change, and grow spiritually (2 Timothy 2:2, 15; 3:16, 17; 2 Peter 3:18). We can be reached here or through our website: www.kelseypeach.com. To receive future articles as they come out, click on “Follow.”

[1] Replacement Theology – https://www.gotquestions.org/replacement-theology.html

Gospel – https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2019/04/24/the-bad-news-the-good-news/

Scripture taken from the New King James Version

Copyright c. 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. Used by Permission. All rights reserved.

Opportunities To Shine

When “the bottom seems to fall out” and the storms of life assail us, [1] it gives “Spirit filled” Christians the opportunity to display the “Fruit of the Spirit,” (which is Christ likeness – Galatians 5:22, 23), before a lost and dying world and to carnal Christians.

Fellow Christian – You may be the only Bible some unbelievers will ever read, and your life is under scrutiny every day. What do others learn from you? Do they see an accurate picture of your God? Would you like to be like Jesus and want for others to see Christ living out His life through your life (Galatians 2:20; 4:19)? If so, please read the link below for more information. [2]

This Fruit consists of love, joy, peace, long suffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance (Galatians 5:22, 23). “Agape” love  is produced by God the Holy Spirit in the lives of Christians who are rightly related to Him (Galatians 5:22, 23), and who aren’t grieving or quenching Him (Ephesians 4:30; 1 Thessalonians 5:19). It must be directed toward the right objects, at the right time, and for the right reasons. It must not be misdirected toward the present, diabolical world system (1 John 2:15-17). This love seeks the highest well being of another person (i.e., what God would want for them). It’s what God did for us sinners (John 3:16; Romans 5:8).

Spiritual fruit will begin to be evident in a believer’s life after he or she is saved (John 15:1-8) by believing on the Lord Jesus Christ alone, Who died for our sins…and rose again bodily on the third day (Acts 16:31; 1 Corinthians 15:3, 4). This fruit could be seen in Christlike character (2 Peter 1:5-8; Galatians 5:22, 23), a life characterized by good works (Colossians 1:10), a faithful witness (1 Corinthians 16:15), a pair of lips that praise God (Hebrews 13:15), and through generous giving of one’s money (Romans 15:28; Philippians 4:17).  – Dr. Charles Ryrie, So Great Salvation, p. 50

Children’s Song – “This little light of mine, I’m gonna let it shine… Hide it under a bushel, no! I’m gonna let it shine… Don’t let Satan blow it out, I’m gonna let it shine… Shine around the neighborhood, I’m gonna let it shine… Let it shine ’til Jesus comes, I’m gonna let it shine, let it shine, let it shine. [3]

Confession. If, as a Christian, you’ve allowed your light to grow dim or out through sin (acts of lawlessness), confess your known sin(s) to God the Father and to others (if you’ve offended them), and then claim God’s forgiveness (1 John 1:9; Proverbs 28:13; James 5:16). Then get back in the race that He has set before you (Hebrews 12:1, 2).

Help. We’re here to assist those who need the comfort that God alone can give (2 Corinthians 1:3, 4) and share additional information with those who are teachable, willing to change, and who want want to grow spiritually. We can be reached here or through our website: www.kelseypeach.com.

[1] “Aptitude + Attitude = Altitude” – https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2019/05/17/attitude/

[2] “Be Like Jesus” https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2022/01/07/be-like-jesus/

[3] “This Little Light Of Mine” – https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2017/10/03/this-little-light-of-mine/

https://makingmusicfun.net/htm/f_mmf_music_library/this-little-light-of-mine

This Little Light of Mine

The Gospel – https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2019/04/24/the-bad-news-the-good-news/

Other links:

https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2016/02/26/7-manifestions-of-the-spirit/

https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2016/02/23/the-holy-spirit-and-you/

https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2022/12/21/numbering-our-days/

“The Words Of My Mouth”

“Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart

Be acceptable in Your sight,

O LORD, my strength and my Redeemer.”

Psalm 19:14

“Words have energy and power with the ability to help, to heal, or to hinder, to hurt, to harm, to humiliate, and to humble.” They can be used to build others up or bludgeon them down. All too often we are careless with our words.

James, the Lord’s half brother wrote, “So then, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath; for the wrath of man does not produce the righteousness of God” (James 1:19, 20).

The Apostle Paul pointed out that Christians ought to “speak the truth in [agape] love” (Ephesians 4:15). Sometimes the truth is very painful. Being told by your Doctor that you have a terminal illness is painful but it could help you and me “get our lives in order.” “You’re not ready to live until you’re ready to die.” For what would you be willing to die? “…it is appointed for men to die once, but after this the judgment” (Hebrews 9:27). Then what and where?

“Let no corrupt word proceed out of your mouth, but what is good for necessary edification, that it may impart grace to the hearers” (Ephesians 4:29).

“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 [a Christian] may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work” (2 Timothy 3:16, 17).

Within its pages we find our “Rules for Living” and everything we need for life and godliness (2 Peter 1:3). God is the One who determines what is right and wrong. When everyone does what is right in his/her own eyes, chaos and disaster happens (Judges 21:25; Genesis 6:5).

When a spiritually maturing Christian, who is rightly related to God (1 John 1:9; Galatians 5:16; Ephesians 5:18), sees another Christian engaged in a trespass (usually a bad attitude) that could lead to sin (an act of lawlessness – 1 John 3:4) and possibly to a premature, physical death (Acts 5:1 ff; 1 Corinthians 11:30; James 5:19, 20; 1 John 5:16), the maturing believer who truly loves the other person should try to restore the one who is headed in the wrong direction by pointing out to the individual the danger that he/she faces as a result of sinful behavior (Galatians 6:1; Romans 8:6). Sin has consequences; often very painful ones.

How Addictive Is Sin?

“Sin will take you/me farther than we want to go.

Sin will keep you/me longer than we want to stay.

Sin will cost you/me more than we want to pay.”

Original source unknown. [1]

Unsaved people love darkness rather than light, because their deeds are evil (John 3:19). They need to know and believe that we genuinely love and care about them and their eternal destiny. We can/should share with them what God says about us in our sinful condition. [2]

“For God [the Father] so loved the [sinful people of the] world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting [eternal] life.” [3] “He who believes in Him is not condemned; but he who does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God,”…“He who believes in the Son has everlasting [eternal] life; and he who does not believe the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God abides on him.” (John 3:16, 18, 36).

Hope. Yes, there is hope for any and all sinners who place their faith and trust in Christ alone Who died for our sins…and rose again bodily on the third day. This is the Gospel (Good News). [2]

Note these words: “Do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived. Neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor homosexuals, nor sodomites, nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners will inherit the kingdom of God. And such were some of you. But you were washed, but you were sanctified, but you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus and by the Spirit of our God” (1 Corinthians 6:9-11; See also Revelation 21:8). Yes, God can change anyone’s life and turn ashes into something beautiful (Isaiah 61:3).

There is one sin, the sin of unbelief in Christ as personal Savior, through the message of the Gospel (1 Corinthians 15:3, 4;John 16:8-11) that will cause a person to be eternally separated from God in the Lake of Fire (Matthew 25:30, 41, 46).

A Christian, who has God’s (agape) love in his/her heart (2 Corinthians 5:14), wouldn’t want anyone, including his/her worst enemy, to go there. Consider the Apostle Paul’s desire for his fellow Jews (Romans 9:1-5).

Jesus wept over the city of Jerusalem because most of the Jews rejected Him as their Messiah (Matthew 23:37; John 1:11). The weeping Prophet Jeremiah wanted his people, the Jews, to avoid the disaster that was going to come on them if they didn’t believe and turn back to God. The Apostle Paul wept as he warned Christians about false teachers who were telling sinners that they were fine when they weren’t (Philippians 3:18; 2 Timothy 4:1-5; Acts 20:31).

Everyone will spend eternity either with God or with the devil and his angels/demons in the Lake of Fire (John 14:1-3; Matthew25:41, 46). Some believers will enjoy heaven more than others (1 Corinthians 3:11-15); some unbelievers will suffer more in the Lake of Fire than others (Matthew 10:15; Luke 16:19-31; Revelation 20:11-15).

God the Son, the Lord Jesus Christ, left heaven to come down to earth to glorify God by making the Godhead known to mankind (John 1:1-18; John 17:4). This involved His being born of the virgin, Mary (Matthew 1:23), living a sinless life (Hebrews 4:15), dying as a Substitute for our sins…and rising from the dead (1 Corinthians 15:3, 4), so He could save any and all who place their faith and trust in Him alone, apart from their good works (Ephesians 2:8, 9;Titus 3:5).

Questions. How do you honesty think God would evaluate the words that come out of your mouth? Would they please Him (2 Corinthians 5:9), or grieve Him (Ephesians 4:30)?

Before we speak, let our words pass through three gates:

It is True? Is it Necessary? Is it Kind?

Help. We’re here to offer assistance to those who are teachable, willing to change, and then grow spiritually (2 Timothy 2:2, 15; 3:16, 17; 2 Peter 3:18). We’ve been through some “raging rivers” and on “rugged mountain paths.” But we’ve been comforted by God through His Word and some of His choice servants, and so we want to extend God’s comfort to you if you long for it (2 Corinthians 1:3, 4). Ask about “Barnabas Notes.”

We can be reached here or through our website: www.kelseypeach.com.

If this has been a help and encouragement to you, please LIKE and SHARE it with others. To receive future articles as they come out, click on “Follow.”

[1] The Pleasures of Sin – https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2021/07/02/the-pleasures-of-sin/

The Truth… https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2021/07/03/the-truth-will-set-you-free/

Your Heart… https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2018/08/01/your-hearts-condition/

Sin… https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2018/02/04/bible-basics-lesson-18-sin/

[2] The Bad News & The Good News – https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2019/04/24/the-bad-news-the-good-news/

[3] The Gospel In A Nutshell – https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2015/05/21/the-gospel-in-a-nutshell/

Other Articles and A Book:

https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2018/11/29/my-mothers-prayers/

https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2021/04/30/our-words-their-effect-on-others/

https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2014/10/16/the-words-of-my-mouth/

Charles R. Swindoll, Touching Others With Your Words. The Art and Practice of Successful Speaking

Scripture taken from the New King James Version. Copyright 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc.  

Used by Permission. All rights reserved.

“Songs To Calm The Weary Soul”

In these troubled times, those who know the Lord Jesus Christ as their personal Savior, can enjoy “peace with God” and the “peace of God” (Romans 5:1; Philippians 4:6, 7). They are the ones who have placed their faith and trust in Him alone, as the One Who died for their sins, was buried, and Who rose again bodily on the third day (Acts 16:31; 1 Corinthians 15:3, 4). Have you done this yet? If not, why not right now? Need spiritual help? Contact us.

In the “Hall of Faith” (Hebrews11) you will find many Old Testament believers who were miraculously delivered by God from harmful or difficult situations. But you will also find other believers who weren’t delivered and yet endured without denying the Lord. [1]

Think about this – “God delivers us from all our sicknesses except the last one which will lead to our physical death.” It is a general rule that all men die once (Hebrews 9:27; See Genesis 2:17; Romans 6:23). Some didn’t and some won’t die (Enoch – Genesis 5:21-24; Elijah – 2 Kings 2:1, 11; Christians who are alive at the Rapture – 1 Corinthians 15:51, 52; 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18).

But there are different judgments of men’s works which will take place at different times. The Lord Jesus Christ, the omniscient God-man, will be the “Righteous Judge” Who will determine each one’s sentence (John 5:22; 2 Timothy 4:8; Revelation 20:11-15). He will determine the degree of enjoyment that believers will have in the next life, or the degree of suffering that unbelievers will experience in the next life (1 Corinthians 3:11-15; 2 Corinthians 5:10; Revelation 20:11-15).

To encourage and uplift fellow believers who may be suffering, Christians over the centuries have written songs, perhaps from their own life experiences, to calm the troubled souls (emotions) of other believers (See 2 Corinthians 1:3, 4). Here are a couple of them:

“God Leads Us Along”

In shady, green pastures so rich and so sweet

God leads His dear children along
Where the water’s cool flow bathes the weary one’s feet

God leads His dear children along

Some through the water, some through the flood

Some through the fire, but all through the blood

And some through great sorrow, but God gives the song

In the night season and all the day long. [2]

Furthermore

God hath not promised skies always blue, / Flower-strewn pathways all our lives through;
God hath not promised sun without rain, / Joy without sorrow, peace without pain.
But God hath promised strength for the day, / Rest for the labor, light for the way,
Grace for the trials, help from above, / Unfailing sympathy, undying love. [3]

Jews vs Christians

The Jews, living under the “Mosaic Law,” could generally expect health and wealth if they were obedient; Disobedient Jews faced a curse (Deuteronomy 28). Christians (believers from the Day of Pentecost to the Rapture) who live godly lives, can/should expect to be persecuted (2 Timothy 3:12; John 16:1-4, 33). But “…the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us” (Romans 8:18). The “Crown of Life” awaits Christians who resist sinful temptations even up to the point of death (James 1:12; Revelation 2:10).

One More Thing. Don’t try to claim promises that weren’t given to you or you could be very disappointed and get angry at God when you shouldn’t be. [4] Beware of the “Health, Wealth, and Happiness Preachers” who proclaim a different Gospel and a different Christ (2 Corinthians 11:3, 4, 13-15). “Your Best Life Now” is true for unbelievers who face an eternity without Christ in the Lake of Fire (Mathew 25:30, 41, 46). The Christian’s best life is yet future when we see Christ face to face at the Rapture (1 John 3:2; 1 Corinthians 15:51, 52; 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18). Perhaps Today!

Help. We’re here to offer assistance to those who are teachable, willing to change, and then grow spiritually (2 Timothy 2:2, 15; 3:16, 17; 2 Peter 3:18). Over the years, we’ve been through some “raging rivers” and on “rugged mountain paths.” But we’ve been comforted by God through His Word and some of His people, and so we want to extend God’s comfort to you if you long for it (2 Corinthians 1:3, 4). Ask about “Barnabas Notes.”

We can be reached here or through our website: www.kelseypeach.com.

If this has been a help and encouragement to you, please LIKE and SHARE it with others. To receive future articles as they come out, click on “Follow.”

[1] John Foxe’s – Book Of Martyrs. https://www.biblestudytools.com/history/foxs-book-of-martyrs/

[2] “God Leads Us Along” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AMU0G7pTeLo

[3] “God Has Not Promised” – https://www.youtube.com/watch

[4] Promises. https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2019/04/01/promises-for-christians-to-claim-2/

“The Devil’s Garage Sale”

Once upon a time, as the story goes, the Devil decided to have a huge garage sale. He advertised that he was selling off many of his tools. On the day of the sale, a curious crowd gathered, but they soon discovered that one tool had a big “Not for Sale” sign attached to it.

One man got up his courage and approached the Devil. He asked him to explain what that tool did and why it wasn’t for sale. The Devil answered, “I can do without many of my other tools, but not this one. It is the most useful tool that I have. It is called discouragement, and with it, I can wedge my way into hearts that would otherwise be unreachable. When I can get this tool into a person’s heart, it opens the way for me to put almost anything else in there that I want. It’s badly worn because I use it on almost everyone. But few know that it belongs to me.”

Obviously this story is a fable. The devil hasn’t been put out of business yet. (Do you know when this will happen? See Revelation 12:7-9; 20:1-10) . But it highlights a real problem we all have. The devil tempts us to be unhappy with a circumstance, an outcome, or perhaps our physical condition: “Why did God let this happen to me?” Discouragement often opens the door to self pity = pride, anger, bitterness, fear, worry, and and many other things that bring Christians down and make us ineffective in our service to and for God.

We are all prone to discouragement because we live in a broken, messed up world, and we have to be around other people who are struggling with many of the same frustrations that we are experiencing. But we’re not alone (1 Corinthians 10:13). Others struggle with it too. Do you? I must confess that I do from time to time.

But I doubt that any of us have suffered as much as the patriarch Job did, but we can still understand what he was feeling when he exclaimed: “When I expected good, then evil came; when I waited for light, then darkness came. I am seething within and cannot relax; days of affliction confront me. I go about mourning without comfort…” (Job 30:26–28).

Discouragement usually sets in when people or circumstances don’t meet our expectations. Is there anything that we can do about it? Thank God, there is.

Solution. When God allows us, as Christians, to be tempted by the devil or a demon with disappointment and discouragement, we need to be sober and vigilant (1 Peter5:8) and submit ourselves to God (James 4:7). Then we must mentally put on the whole armor of God (Ephesians 6:10-17) and focus our attention on the “helmet of salvation” (Ephesians 6:17). We need to remind ourselves of the salvation that Christ has provided, and is providing, and will provide for us in the future as well. [1]

Think about this – “The Christian was saved [from the penalty of sin] by the death and resurrection of Christ. He is being saved [from the power of sin] by the life of Christ, and His present ministry [in heaven]. He will be saved [from the presence of sin] in the future by the presence of Christ. When a saint’s mind is filled with these facts, [he is able to overcome] the lusts [strong desires] of discouragement, disappointment, cowardice and an unforgiving spirit.” [2]

The Christian has three spiritual enemies: the devil, the present, diabolical world system, and his/her own sin nature. The temptations to sin that come from each of these enemies must be overcome by using the different methods that God has provided for us in His Word. See the link below. [3]

“Life is filled with difficulties and perplexities,” King Solomon concluded, “and there’s much that nobody can understand, let alone control. From the human point of view, it’s all vanity and folly. But life is God’s gift to us and He wants us to enjoy it and use it for His glory. So, instead of complaining about what you don’t have, start giving thanks for what you do have—and be satisfied!” [4]

If you haven’t placed your faith and trust in the Lord Jesus Christ alone, Who died for your sins…and rose again bodily on the third day, do it now and be assured of your eternal destiny in heaven.

We’re here to assist those who are teachable, and willing to change, and grow spiritually (2 Timothy 2:2, 15; 3:16, 17). If you have questions and/or comments, we can be reached here or through our website: www.kelseypeach.com. Please SHARE this information with others who made be helped by reading this.

[1] Three Phases of Salvation – https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/?s=three+phases+of+salvation

[2] Dr. H. L. Schafer, Maturing In Christ, pp. 168, 190

[3] https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2019/03/22/tested-and-tried-daily/

[4] Warren W. Wiersbe, Be Satisfied – Ecclesiastes

Other articles: https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2011/04/08/problem-solving/

https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2018/07/19/problem-solving-2/

Some of this material was adapted from https://bethelchapelchurch.com/the-devils-yard-sale/ and

https://bible.org/seriespage/lesson-5-overcoming-discouragement-ezra-51-17

“All Knotted Up?”

Are you all knotted up inside and full of fear, worry, and cares? Would you like to have and enjoy a tranquil, happy, and stable life instead? If you would, read on. (Maybe you know someone who could benefit from this information. If so, please pass this on to them. Read 2 Corinthians 1:3, 4)

The Lord Jesus Christ, the God-man, came to save sinners like you and me (Luke 19:10) and to give those of us who would believe in/on Him eternal life and abundant life (John 10:10). He wants every true Christian to enjoy a life of tranquility, happiness, and stability. (See 1 Timothy 2:1-4; John 15:11) The Apostle Paul told the early Christians how they and we can have this kind of life.

“Be anxious for nothing [stop worrying], but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:6, 7). [1]

We need to know and claim the unconditional promises that have been given to us as Christians if we are to enter into this type of rest (Hebrews 4:1 ff). [2] Consider the words to this beloved song: “Trust [God and His promises] and obey, for there is no other way to be happen in Jesus, but to trust and obey.” [3]

Before we can have and enjoy the “peace of God,” we must gain “peace with God” which comes to us automatically when we place our faith and trust in the Lord Jesus Christ alone, Who died for your sins…and rose again bodily from the dead on the third day. (See Romans 5:1). If you’ve never done this before now, why not now? [4] We are NOT saved by our good works or by our faith plus our good works (Ephesians 2:8, 9; Titus 3:5).

Note: We are saved by one act of faith in Christ through the Gospel, but we are to continue to live our lives in an attitude of faith (Romans 1:16, 17; Galatians 3:11). Are you living with doubts & fears or by faith?

Do you know and are you claiming the unconditional promises that have been given to us as Christians so you can enter into this type of rest (Hebrews 4:2 ff)? If not, why not? [2]

We’re here to assist those who are teachable and willing to change and grow (2 Timothy 2:2, 15; 43:16, 17; 2 Peter 3:18). We can be reached here or through our website: www.kelseypeach.com.

Please SHARE this information with others.

[1] Here are four of eight ways to communicate with God. (See our Bible Study Book Marker for the other four ways.) www.kelseypeach.com or https://www.kelseypeach.com/_files/ugd/08892a_ce5bb78881fa4f50a6c866dd9ab0adfe.pdf

[2] Promises For Christians alone to claim. – https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2019/04/01/promises-for-christians-to-claim-2/ (You might want to print a copy of these and review them often. Memorize and meditate on them regularly. Ask us about an easy way to memorize Scripture.)

[3] “Trust And Obey” song – https://www.hymnal.net/en/hymn/h/582

[4] Gospel Presentations – https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2022/02/16/gospel-presentations/

“I Wish You Bad Luck”

Speaking at his son’s commencement exercise at the Cardigan Mountain School, Chief Justice John Roberts said hardships in life were both inevitable and important for building character, so he would abstain from wishing them good luck in the future.

He said, “From time to time in the years to come, I hope you will be treated unfairly, so that you will come to know the value of justice. I hope that you will suffer betrayal, because that will teach you the importance of loyalty.

“Sorry to say, but I hope you will be lonely from time to time, so that you don’t take friends for granted. I wish you bad luck, again from time to time, so you will be conscious of the role of chance in life, and understand that your success is not completely deserved, and that the failure of others is not completely, deserved, either.

“And when you lose, as you will from time to time, I hope every now and then your opponent will gloat over your failure. It is a way for you to understand the importance of sportsmanship. I hope you will be ignored, so you know the importance of listening to others. And I hope you will have just enough pain to learn compassion.

“Whether I wish these things or not, they are going to happen, and whether you benefit from them or not will depend upon your ability to see the message in your misfortunes,” he said. [1]

When God Wants To Make A Man

When God wants to drill a man,
And thrill a man,
And skill a man,
When God wants to mold a man
To play the noblest part;
When He yearns with all His heart
To create so great and bold a man
That all the world shall be amazed,
Watch His methods, watch His ways!

How He ruthlessly perfects
Whom He royally elects!
How He hammers him and hurts him,
And with mighty blows converts him
Into trial shapes of clay which
Only God understands;
While his tortured heart is crying
And he lifts beseeching hands!

How He bends but never breaks
When his good He undertakes;
How He uses whom He chooses,
And with every purpose fuses him;
By every act induces him
To try His splendor out—
God knows what He’s about.

—Author Unknown [2]

Do you feel like God couldn’t possibly use you? Remember:

~ Noah was a drunk

~ Abraham was too old

~ Isaac was a daydreamer

~ Jacob was a liar

~ Leah was ugly

~ Joseph was abused

~ Moses had a stuttering problem 

~ Gideon was afraid

~ Samson had long hair and was a womanizer

~ Rahab was a prostitute

~ Jeremiah and Timothy were too young

~ David was an adulterer and a murderer

~ Elijah was suicidal

~ Isaiah preached naked

~ Jonah ran from God

~ Naomi was a widow

~ Job went bankrupt

~ John the Baptist ate bugs

~ Peter denied Christ

~ The disciples fell asleep while praying

~ Martha worried about everything

~ The Samaritan woman was divorced (more than once)

~ Zacchaeus was too small

~ Paul was too religious

~ Timothy had an ulcer

~ Lazarus was dead! [3]

F.A.T.F.R.E.E. Christians: Faithful, Available, Teachable, Flexible, Resilient, Evangelistic, and Enthusiastic. Take the test yourself. [4]

Salvation

If you aren’t absolutely sure of your personal relationship with God, and that you will go to heaven the moment you die, please let us help you make sure of this matter. [5] We’re here to assist those who are teachable and willing to change (2 Timothy 2:2,15; 3:16, 17). We can be reached here or through our website: www.kelseypeach.com.

[1] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pqzbEGA3x2I

‘I Wish You Bad Luck’ – The Graduation Speech ALL of Our Kids Need to Hear

https://www.vnews.com/Chief-Justice-Roberts-Speaks-at-N-H-Boys-School-Commencement-10665603

[2] https://bible.org/illustration/when-god-want%E2%80%99s-make-man

[3] https://www.jollynotes.com/biblical-examples-of-imperfect-people-god-used-in-the-bible/

[4] F.A.T.F.R.E.E. Test. https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2013/05/25/the-f-a-t-f-r-e-e-test/

[5] Gospel Presentations: https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2022/02/16/gospel-presentations/

“Blind, But Not Bitter”

You might think that she would have lived her life as a bitter woman because a “Doctor” gave here the wrong medication which caused her to go blind at a very young age (six weeks old). But instead, with the help of her godly grandmother, who taught her about God and His Word, she allowed the Lord to use her “handicap” to bless the lives of countless others through the six thousand Gospel songs she wrote. Included in the list were these: “Blessed Assurance, Jesus Is Mine,” “Pass Me Not, O Gentle Saviour,” and “Rescue The Perishing.”

“Rescue The Perishing” was written after she had met a young, blue collar worker at one of her speaking engagements. During her talk, she felt compelled to ask, “If there is a dear boy here tonight who has perchance wandered away from his mother’s home and his mother’s teaching, please come at the end of the service and talk to me.”

When the meeting was over, a young man (18 years old) approached her. “Did you mean me?” he asked. “I promised my mother that I would meet her in heaven, but the way I have been living, I don’t think that will be possible now.” This blind lady then had the joy of leading that young man to Christ. Upon returning to her room that night, all she could think about was the theme “Rescue The Perishing.” (See Jude 1:22, 23). So she wrote the words to the song we often sing in church. [1]

“Rescue the perishing.” God the Father loved the people of this world who had sinned (acted lawlessly) against Him (John 3:16; See 1 John 3:4). He wanted to rescue us so that we wouldn’t have to spend eternity in the lake of fire with the devil and his angels/demons (1 Timothy 2:4; Matthew 25:41, 46). He saw us in a desperate condition. To make this deliverance possible, One of the members in the Godhead needed to come down to this earth (Philippians 2:5-11), add to His deity at true human nature and a real body (John 1:1-18; Hebrews 10:7, 9). He needed to be born of a virgin (Isaiah 7:14; Matthew 1:23), and live a sinless life Himself (Hebrews 4:15). Then He would need to die as our Substitute to satisfy God’s outraged holiness against our sin nature and our sins/acts of lawlessness (1 Peter 3:18; 1 John 2:2, 4:10). So God the Son, the Lord Jesus Christ volunteered to die for our sins. But without His bodily resurrection from the dead (1 Corinthians 15:17), He wouldn’t be able to save to the uttermost those who would come to Him by faith (Hebrews 7:25; 11:6). That is why He rose again from the dead and now sits at God the Father’s right hand in heaven (Romans 4:25; Colossians 3:1).

“Care for the dying.” Not only are we all dying physically a little bit each day, every baby who comes into this world is born spiritually dead and separated from God (Ephesians 2:1). We all need to be “born again from above” (John 3:3-7; 1 Peter 1:23). Being born of Christian parents doesn’t guarantee our salvation. God has no grandchildren. It’s an individual decision we must make for ourselves – Believe in/on Him as our personal Savior, or reject Him and His offer of salvation. Why would anyone do this? Could it be because they love darkness rather than light (John 1:12; 3:19). What about you?

“Snatch them in pity from sin and the grave.” God looks with grace, mercy, and pity on us sinners and has done everything necessary for us to be saved and to live a godly, Christian life (2 Peter 1:3, 4). No amount of good works can save us (Ephesians 2:8, 9; Titus 3:5). All we need to do is “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ alone, who died for our sins…and rose again bodily on the third day, and we will be saved” (Acts 16:31; 1 Corinthians 15:3, 4). Have you done this yet? If not, why not trust in Him right now?

“Weep o’er the erring one.” So few Christians ever weep for lost people as Jesus did when He looked over the city of Jerusalem and said, “O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, the one who kills the prophets and stones those who are sent to her! How often I wanted to gather your children together, as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, but you were not willing!” (Matthew 23:37; See Romans 9:1-3). Jude, the Lord’s half-brother wrote: “But you, beloved, building yourselves up on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Spirit, keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life. And on some have compassion, making a distinction; but others save with fear, pulling them out of the fire, hating even the garment defiled by the flesh” (Jude 1:20-23). Has your love for God, for other Christians, and for lost people grown cold or indifferent (John 13:34, 35; 1 John 3:16, 17; Revelation 2:4)? If it has, renew it and let God live His life through your life (Romans 5:5; Galatians 2:20).

“Lift up the fallen.” We’ve all fallen into sin and come short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23). As Jesus cast out a demon from a young man and lifted up him up (Mark 9:17-27), so may we be in a position to lift up the fallen and…

“Tell them of Jesus.” Jesus said, “I AM the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me” (John 14:6). Jesus is the only One who can save us eternally (Acts 4:12). The false Christs and a false gospel message leads to everlasting destruction (2 Corinthians 11:4, 13-15). False teachers “are spots in your love feasts, while they feast with you without fear, serving only themselves. They are clouds without water, carried about by the winds; late autumn trees without fruit, twice dead, pulled up by the roots; raging waves of the sea, foaming up their own shame; wandering stars for whom is reserved the blackness of darkness forever” (Jude 1:12, 13).

“The mighty to save.” Jesus, along with the other two Members in the Godhead, is the omnipotent God (Revelation 1:8), who created the heavens and the earth (Genesis 1:1; John 1:1- 3; Colossians 1:15-17). There is no one whom He can’t save no matter how bad a person has been. “Do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived. Neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor homosexuals, nor sodomites, nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners will inherit the kingdom of God. And such were some of you. But you were washed, but you were sanctified, but you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus and by the Spirit of our God” (1 Corinthians 6:9-11; See 1 John 3:4-9). When we place our faith in the Lord Jesus Christ alone to be saved, we are judicially forgiven (Ephesians 1:7) and cannot be condemned (Romans 8:1). Family forgiveness is based on a Christian’s honest confession of his/her sins to God the Father (1 John 1:9).

Feeling Useless? Fanny Crosby, [2] the blind author of this song and many of the other hymns we still sing, might have thought at one time that maybe God couldn’t use someone like her for His glory (1 Corinthians 10:31). But she didn’t allow the devil to defeat her and become bitter or to have an unforgiving spirit toward the “Doctor” who was responsible for her being blind (Hebrews 12:15; See Ephesians 6:17). Once she was saved, she dedicated her life to God (Romans 12:1, 2), and He used her in a mighty way to bless others (See 2 Corinthians 1:3, 4).

Do you feel like God couldn’t possibly use you (See Ephesians 3:20; 1 Peter 4:10)? If so, consider these Bible characters whom God used for His glory:

Noah got drunk, Abraham was too old, Isaac was a daydreamer, Jacob was a liar, Leah was ugly, Joseph was abused, Moses had a stuttering problem, Gideon was afraid, Samson was a womanizer, Rahab was a prostitute, Jeremiah and Timothy were too young, David was an adulterer and a murderer, Elijah was suicidal, Jonah ran from God, Naomi was a widow, Job went bankrupt, John the Baptist ate bugs, Peter denied Christ, the disciples fell asleep while praying, Martha worried about everything, the Samaritan woman was divorced (more than once), Zacchaeus was too small, Paul was a blasphemer and a murderer, Timothy had an ulcer, and Lazarus was dead! [3]

Application. All of us have challenges, hardships, trials, and testings in this life that could easily cause us to become bitter, angry, rebellious, cynical, and hateful toward others who have hurt us. But we’re not alone (1 Corinthians 10:13). Think for a moment about those who have hurt you deeply or let you down in life. Have they treated you as badly and as often as you’ve treated God? Has God forgiven you? If you’ve been forgiven, then why are you unwilling to forgive others (See Matthew 18:21-35; Ephesians 4:32)?

If you are a true Christian, is your bad attitude (B.A.) keeping you from having and exhibiting the nine parts of the “Fruit of the Spirt” (Galatians 5:22, 23) in your life? Are you looking for an opportunity to take vengeance into your own hands (Romans 12:19-21)? How is your bad attitude affecting the unsaved people around you? Do you grumble, gripe, and complain often in their hearing as the children of Israel did while they were in the wilderness (1 Corinthians 10:1-12)? Are you suffering physically or mentally and about to die prematurely because of your rebellious, and unforgiving spirit (See 1 Corinthians 11:30; James 5:19, 20; 1 John 5:16; 1 Samuel 15:23)? Do you know that God wants us, as believers, to bless and pray for those who persecute us (Romans 12:14; Matthew 5:44)? Is honest confession to God and others (if necessary) in order (1 John 1:9; James 5:16; Proverbs 28:13)?

When we are tempted by the devil to be bitter or have an unforgiving spirit, we need to put on the whole “armor of God” (Ephesians 6:10-17). The “helmet of salvation” is the piece of the armor that helps us overcome these two temptations (Ephesians 6:17).

If you are saved, and rightly related to God the Holy Spirit (1 John 1:9; Galatians 5:16, 25; Ephesians 5:18), you are in a position to help someone who has a bad attitude (B.A.) and take part in adjusting his/her thinking before sin is involved (Galatians 6:1 ff; 1 John 3:4). You could keep a person from dying prematurely (1 John 5:15; James 5:19, 20) so he/she can live a productive life for the glory of God and good of others.

“One ship sails east

One ship sails west

Regardless of how the winds blow.

It is the set of the sail

And not the gale

That determines the way we go.”

Charles R. Swindoll [4]

Help. We’re here to assist those who are teachable and willing to change if necessary (2 Timothy 2:2, 15; 3:16, 17). If you have questions and/or comments, we can be reached through our website: www.kelseypeach.com. If this has helped you, please SHARE it with others.

[1] “Rescue The Perishing” story. Robert J. Morgan, “Then Sings My Soul” Thomas Nelson Publishers, Nashville, TN, p. 175

[2] Fanny Crosby https://www.wholesomewords.org/biography/bcrosby15.html

[3] https://www.jollynotes.com/biblical-examples-of-imperfect-people-god-used-in-the-bible/

[4] Charles R. Swindoll, Laugh Again, Word Publishing, Dallas, 1992, p. 34

“Bad News & Good News” https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2019/04/24/the-bad-news-the-good-news/

Music Video: Rescue The Perishing https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LMFRt2aLuMI

*Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson.  Used by permission. All rights reserved.

“Demon Possessed Or Oppressed?”

Recently I had a man, who lives in another state, whom I had led to the Lord for salvation several years ago, call me to tell me about a frightening experience he had. In the middle of the night he felt like he was being attacked mentally by the devil or demons. He wanted to know what the Scriptures have to say about such things. I pointed out to him from the Bible that while Christians can’t be “demon possessed” (1 Corinthians 6:19, 20; John 14:23; 1 John 4:4 ) they can be “demon oppressed” (1 Peter 5:8; Ephesians 6:10-17; 2 Timothy 2:24-26; Acts 10:38). Maybe you, or someone you know, has had such an experience yourself. If so, read on. God’s Word offers hope.

Thoughts. This is where the devil or demons usually attack Christians (Ephesians 6:10-17; See 1 Peter 5:8; 2 Corinthians 2:11). Thankfully they need permission from God to tempt us (Luke 22:31; 1 Corinthians 10:13; Ephesians 6:13). It might be for us to be bitter toward God and blame Him or someone else because of a bad experience we’ve had in life (Hebrews 12:14, 15), or they might tempt us to have an unforgiving spirit toward someone who has hurt us deeply, whether it be physically, emotionally, or mentally (2 Corinthians 2:10, 11).

Language. The devil or demons also can tempt believers to engage in filthy speech (Ephesians 4:27-29). “A good man out of the good treasure of his heart brings forth good; and an evil man out of the evil treasure of his heart brings forth evil. For out of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaks” (Luke 6:45; See James 3:10; Ephesians 4:15).

Personalize. Has someone hurt you very badly? Are you looking for an opportunity to take vengeance on him/her? If so, this bad attitude will eat you up and hurt you far more than the person whom you want to hurt. Maturing, spiritual Christians can/should help such believers so they don’t let the trespass become a sin (Galatians 6:1-4; See Ephesians 2:1). “Beloved, do not avenge yourselves, but rather give place to wrath; for it is written, ‘Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,’ says the Lord” (Romans 12:19). Do you really believe that God will do this for you in His time and in His way?

Tools. Here is a strange question. Have you ever given thanks for the person who hurt you (1 Timothy 2:1) or considered that God may want to use him/her as a hammer, chisel, saw, or sandpaper to help conform you into Christ’s image (Romans 8:29; 12:1, 2)? If you’re a Christian, do you have and are you displaying the “Fruit of the Spirt” toward that individual? (Read Galatians 5:22, 23.) How might the Lord Himself act and/or react if He were standing in your place (Philippians 2:5 ff)? Are you suffering for doing what is right or for something wrong (1 Peter 2:19 ff; 4:12 ff; Philippians 1:29)? Is confession in order (1 John 1:9; James 5:16; Proverbs 28:13)?

Torture. Christians who have an unforgiving spirit or bitterness in their heart can be afflicted by the torturers (Matthew 18:21-35). This could involve demonic oppression and torment (Examples: King Saul who wanted to kill David – 1 Samuel 16:14, 23; 19:9; Satanically ensnared Christians – 2 Timothy 2:24-26). Keep this in mind. No one has ever wronged us to the same degree that we have wronged and sinned against God. “Sin is lawlessness” (1 John 3:4). God wants His children to “… be kind to one another, tenderhearted, [graciously] forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you” (Ephesians 4:32; 1:7; See Luke 23:34; 1 Corinthians 2:8). Are you doing this? If not, why?

Forgiveness. Let’s back up some. At the time of our salvation we are judicially forgiven once for all (Ephesians 1:7; See Romans 8:1). But we need family forgiveness when we sin as God’s children so we can get back in fellowship with Him (1 John 1:5-10). When God forgives us He doesn’t remember our sins against us (Ezekiel 33:16), but He doesn’t forget what we did because He is omniscient (Isaiah 46:10; John 2:24; Psalm 139). He will usually allow us to be tempted again in the same area to give us another opportunity to display either our love for Him or for our love of the pleasure we derive from engaging in a particular sin (1 Corinthians 10:13; 1 John 2:15-17; Hebrews 11:25; James 1:12). We have a choice to make – to sin and grieve God (Ephesians 4:30) or to gain victory and please God (2 Corinthians 5:9). There is a “sin unto [a premature, physical] death” that defiant Christians can commit (1 Corinthians 11:30; James 5:19, 20; 1 John 5:16; Proverbs 29:1).

Carnality. The Christians in the church at Corinth were told to disassociate themselves from the “Christian man” who had been committing incest with his mother and to “deliver such a one to Satan for the destruction of his flesh” (1 Corinthians 5:1-8; See Galatians 5:19-21; 1 Timothy 1:20). Apparently, after they did this, he repented (changed his mind) and confessed his sins to God and to the church (2 Corinthians 2:1-11; 1 John 1:9; James 5:16). Once he did this, the Apostle Paul admonished them to forgive him and take him back into their fellowship. If they refused to do this, he warned them about the devil’s attempt to take advantage of them and cause them to be “demonically oppressed” (2 Corinthians 2:1-11). Are you Satanically oppressed or ensnared right now (2 Timothy 2:24-26)?

Attacks. When Satan, or more likely a demon, attacks our minds with any of these particular temptations: to have an unforgiving spirit, to be bitter, disappointed, discouraged, or to act cowardly, we must put on the whole armor of God and focus our attention on the “helmet of salvation” to overcome them (Ephesians 6:17). We need to think about all the spiritual blessings we have in our “salvation package” (Ephesians 1:3 ff).

Biblical Meditation. “Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, … noble, … just, … pure, … lovely, … of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things” (Philippians 4:8). Are you doing this? If not, with God’s help why not start now?

Song. “O soul are you weary and troubled? / No light in the darkness you see? / There’s light for a look at the Savior / And life more abundant and free / Turn you eyes upon Jesus / Look full in His wonderful face / And the things of earth will grow strangely dim / In the light of His glory and grace.” – Helen Lemmel

Help. We’re here to assist those who are teachable and willing to change if necessary (2 Timothy 2:2, 15; 3:16, 17). We can be reached through our website: www.kelseypeach.com. If you’d like to get new articles as they come out, click on “Follow.” Please SHARE this with others.

Gospel. If you’re not saved yet, please read this article carefully: https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2019/04/24/the-bad-news-the-good-news/

“Under Pressure, Provocation, Or Persecution?”

Believe it or not, you can learn a lot about a person by discovering what makes him/her angry, what makes him/her cry, and what makes him/her laugh. Apply this to yourself.

“A real test of the genuineness of Christian profession is witnessed when one finds himself under pressure, provocation, or persecution…Our reaction to a sudden, unexpected change of condition or circumstances shows up a weakness in many of us.  Some Christians are thrown completely off balance if anyone disagrees with them, and under more trying circumstances they go completely to pieces.” – Dr. Lehman Strauss. What sets you off?

Attitude. A key to the problems of life has to do with the attitude. What is your attitude when you are suddenly stopped short of your goal that was part of your planning? Do you resent the circumstances? Do you become angry with God or with others because you didn’t get your way? Be honest. “There is a way that seems right to a man, But its end is the way of death” (Proverbs 14:12). Is it your way or the highway? Is it God’s way or your way as one secular song suggests?

Submission. One songwriter put it this way: “Not what I wish to be / Nor we are I wish to go /For who am I That I should choose my way? / The Lord will choose for me / ‘Tis better far I know, / So let him bid me go or stay!” When facing the cross, Jesus said, “Father, if it is Your will, take this cup away from Me; nevertheless not My will, but Yours, be done” (Luke 22:42). Are you interested in doing God’s will or your will? How often are God’s thoughts and ways brought into your decision making (Isaiah 55:7-9)?

Reactions. The Apostle Paul’s response of rejoicing in the Lord in the midst of his circumstances had a profound effect on some unbelievers, some believers, and even upon himself. Ask yourself, “What are others learning about me by my words, actions, and reactions?” Do they bring glory to God or do they grieve Him (1 Corinthians 10:31; Ephesians 4:30; Psalm 19:14)?

Guards. Being under house arrest (Acts 28:30), Paul was chained to many, elite Roman soldiers. They were his captive audience. They observed him day and night and soon learned that he wasn’t an ordinary prisoner but was there because of his faith in the Lord Jesus Christ and his passion to spread the Gospel to others. Many were saved by Paul’s life and the Gospel that came forth from his lips.

In Prison. Some Bible teachers believe that Paul was in prison because he didn’t heed the warnings that had been given to him by the Holy Spirit (Acts 21:4, 12-14). Even though he was willing to die for Christ, “To want to die for Christ is all wrong when God wants you to live and preach the Gospel.” – Dr. H. L. Schafer. “For as many as are [habitually being] led by the Spirit of God, these are [maturing] sons of God” (Romans 8:14).

Blessing. But even when we mess things up, God has a way of turning them around for good for His children who love Him (Romas 8:28). Paul needed a rest and some time to reflect/meditate (See Psalm 1:2; 46:10; Philippians 4:8; 1 Timothy 4:15). So he used his time to write letters to churches and individuals to instruct them and to share with them grace teaching/truths that He had received from the Lord during his time with the Lord in Arabia (Galatians 1:17). Could you write a letter, call someone, or give a word of encouragement to someone in need? (See 2 Corinthians 1:3, 4; Hebrews 10:24, 25) If you can, will you do it? When? Today?  What is really important to you – other people in need or your own personal pleasures?

Satan. He will try to convince some unsaved people that they aren’t savable and could never be forgiven for the sins they’ve committed. He often reminds Christians of past failures that have been forgiven (Ephesians 1:7; 1 John 1:9) and would cause us to become disappointed, discouraged, and even to doubt God and His Word. When he or demons tempt us, we must put on the armor that God has provided for us to be victorious (Ephesians 6:10-17). Do you also know how to overcome temptations that come from your sin nature, and from the present world system? Being tempted isn’t a sin, but yielding to sinful temptations is sin (“Sin is lawlessness.” 1 John 3:4; Romans 3:10, 23; 6:23).

Plans/Goals. “Make plans and set goals which are in keeping with God’s written Word. Arrange them into priorities. Plan your strategy. Submit your goals to God’s sovereign will. If God providentially hinders you from accomplishing your goals, assume that the delay was part of God’s sovereign will. This will free you from discouragement. All you’ll need to do is adjust your time table.” – Adapted from Gary Friesen, Decision Making And The Will of God. p. 239

Effects. Paul’s attitude of rejoicing in the midst of his imprisonment stimulated other believers to become more bold in their witness for the Lord (See Acts 4:13-31; 1 Thessalonians 5:18). He wasn’t discouraged because God’s love had been shed abroad in his life and this helped him overcome his fears (Romans 5:5; 2 Timothy 1:7; 1 John 4:18).

Motives. Yes, there were some people who were proclaiming the Gospel from envy and strife, but others were proclaiming it from goodwill (Philippians 1:15; Galatians 5:19-21; Romans 1:16). Either way, he was glad that others were learning about Christ and His offer of salvation to all mankind (1 Timothy 2:4; 1 John 2:2). We should always be ready to give an answer to those who ask us about our hope/confident expectation in Christ (1 Peter 3:15; 2 Timothy 4:2). Are you prepared to do this? Have you ever led another person to Christ for salvation? Would you like to learn more so you can do this and earn the “Crown of Rejoicing” (1 Thessalonians 2:19, 20; Ephesians 4:11)?

Formula. For someone to be saved from having to spend eternity with the devil and his angels in the lake of fire (Matthew 25:41, 46; Revelation 21:8) and to go to heaven to be with God (John 14:1-3), one needs to use the right formula. “Grace + Faith = Salvation + Good Works (Ephesians 2:8-10). It is not “Grace + Faith + Good Works = Salvation” (Titus 3:5). Note the difference.  Make sure the Gospel for salvation is presented clearly to them.

25 Words. These few words could result in a dying person’s or anyone’s instant salvation. “My Friend, You have sinned. But Christ died for sinners and rose again. Trust Him alone and He will save you eternally. Do it now!” – Dr. M. Kober [1]. (Read Romans 3:23; 6:23; 1 Corinthians 15:3, 4; Acts 16:31; 1 John 5:13; 2 Corinthians 6:2; Proverbs 27:1; James 4:14.)

Witnesses. Jesus wants every Christian to be a witness to unbelievers so they can be saved (Acts 1:8). The devil will try to intimidate and discourage you (2 Timothy 1:7; 1 Peter 5:8), but with God’s help you can do what He wants you to do (Philippians 4:13). The Apostle Paul was willing to endure all things so others could be saved (2 Timothy 2:10). To what extent would you go so others could be saved?

Investment. Why not invest your life in others? Chuck Swindoll gives these suggestions: “Ask God to give you a sensitive spirit for identifying someone to disciple. Be on the alert – don’t scratch anybody off your list of possibilities [as long as they are still alive]. Reach out slowly and informally. Before your time together is over, make specific plans to meet again.” – Discipleship, p. 99

Questions. What makes you angry/mad? What makes you sad and causes you to cry? What makes you laugh and rejoice in the Lord? Are you truly saved or just a “professing Christian?” If you’re truly saved, are you growing spiritually, and serving God and others?  Are you regularly sharing the Gospel with the lost? Do you have all your known sins confessed to God (1 John 1:9; James 5:16; Proverbs 28:13; 29:1)? Do you want to do God’s will more than anything else? Are you struggling with sinful temptations (See 1 Corinthians 10:13; 2 Peter 1:3)? Are you tired of living a defeated life? If so –

Help. We’re here to assist you and others who are teachable and willing to change (2 Timothy 2:2, 15; 3:16, 17). We can be reached through our website: www.kelseypeach.com with your questions/comments. Join us on Facebook and Youtube for our Bible studies. Click on “Follow” to receive future articles as they come out. Send us your questions/comments. If this has helped you, please share it with others.

[1] Dr. Manfred Kober, https://www.faith.edu/1993/02/do-we-really-know-the-gospel/