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.

Secret Wounds, Silent Cries

“Tucked away in a quiet corner of every life are wounds and scars. If they were not there, we would need no Physician. Nor would we need one another.” – Chuck Swindoll [1]

Jesus said this to His disciples, “Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light” (Matthew 11:28-30).

And the night before He was crucified on a cross He said, “Abide [i.e. feel at ease] in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in Me. I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing” (John 15:4, 5).

“This fruit can 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 C. Ryrie “So Great Salvation” p. 50.

The Apostle Paul wrote, “Brethren, if a man is overtaken in any trespass, you who are spiritual restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness, considering yourself lest you also be tempted. Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ” (Galatians 6:1, 2).

Realizing the need that every Christian has, Lina Sandell wrote this –

“Day By Day” [2]

“Day by day, and with each passing moment,
Strength I find to meet my trials here;
Trusting in my Father’s wise bestowment,
I’ve no cause for worry or for fear.

“He, whose heart is kind beyond all measure,
Gives unto each day what He deems best,
Lovingly its part of pain and pleasure,
Mingling toil with peace and rest.”

Song writers Annie S. Hawks and Robert Lowry went a little further and wrote about an hourly relationship that we all need to have with the Lord.

“I need Thee every hour
Most gracious Lord
No tender voice like Thine
Can peace afford

“I need Thee, O I need Thee
Every hour I need Thee
O bless me now, my Savior
I come to Thee.” [3]

But Daniel W. Whittle wrote about a “Moment By Moment” relationship each Christian needs.

“Dying with Jesus, by death reckoned mine;
Living with Jesus, a new life divine;
Looking to Jesus till glory doth shine,
Moment by moment, O Lord, I am Thine.

“Moment by moment I’m kept in His love;
Moment by moment I’ve life from above;
Looking to Jesus till glory doth shine;
Moment by moment, O Lord, I am Thine.” [4]

I don’t know about you, but I, as a believer in Christ, am delighted to know that I am held securely in God’s almighty hands (John 10:28 29). He knows everything about me and all His other children, with all of our short comings, and still loves us with an everlasting love (Jeremiah 31:3; John 13:34, 35). God the Father also disciplines and chastens His unruly children (Hebrews 12:5 ff).

My friend, Do you know the Lord Jesus Christ as your personal Savior? Have you placed your faith and trust in Him alone, Who died for your sins…and rose again bodily on the third day? If not yet, why not NOW?

Perhaps you will agree with author Ruth Caye Jones who wrote: “In times like these, we need a Savior / In times like these, we need an anchor / Be very sure, be very sure / Your anchor holds and grips the Solid Rock. / This Rock is Jesus, Yes, He’s the one / This Rock is Jesus, The only One / Be very sure, be very sure / Your anchor holds and grips the Solid Rock.” [5]

If you are a true Christian do you know someone who may need your help? Are you Faithful, Available, Teachable, Flexible, Resilient, Evangelistic, and Enthusiastic (F.A.T.F.R.E.E.)? [6]

Here are some action steps. (1) Choose three people whom you can encourage by saying healing words. (2) Trust someone by letting him know of your hurt and allowing him to aid you in the healing process. [1]

My days on earth are limited. We’re here to assist those who are teachable, willing to change, and grow spiritually. We can be reached here or through our website: www.kelseypeach.com.

[1] Chuck Swindoll, “Growing Strong In The Seasons of Life” Multnomah Press, Portland, OR. p. 78

[2] “Day By Day” https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2019/02/02/day-by-day/

[3] “I Need Thee” https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2019/02/02/i-need-thee-every-hour/

[4] “Moment By Moment” https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2019/02/05/moment-by-moment/

[5] “In Times Like These” https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2015/05/21/in-times-like-these-3/

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

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

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/

“Nineteen Existential Threats”

Sticker Shock. I’m quite sure that you don’t need to be told that the prices of goods and services have risen dramatically over the last several months and years. People all over the world are in panic mode, fearful of the future. What about you? Are you at “peace with God” (Romans 5:1)? Do you enjoy the “peace of God” (Philippians 4:6, 7)? If not, would you like to have this kind of peace?

Threats. “Right now, there are at least nineteen existential threats that are currently hanging over our collective heads like a giant boulder teetering on the edge of a cliff on the San Andreas faultline. Crazily enough, none of these threats include Covid, transgendered bathroom rights, or man-made climate change. However, for the sake of argument, here are said nineteen existential threats to both our nation and the world: (1) Nuclear war with Russia, China, North Korea, (2) Dirty bombs detonated in major cities, (3) EMP attack by the aforementioned, (4) The collapse of the U.S. Dollar, (5) A serious bioengineered pandemic, (6) A massive cyber attack, etc. For more, click on link below. [1]

Blame. It’s not hard for us to blame others for all the problems were facing. Whom would you blame? The Republicans and Donald Trump, the Democrats and Joe Biden, the Big Corporations, your parents, your boss, or perhaps others? What role do you personally play and what are you doing to change things that you don’t like? [2]

First things first. “An unexamined life is not worth living.” – Socrates [3] “Not my brother, not my sister, but it’s me, O Lord, Standin’ in the need of prayer;…Not the preacher, not the deacon, but it’s me, O Lord, Standin’ in the need of prayer;…Not my father, not my mother, …Not the stranger, not my neighbor, but it’s me, O Lord, Standin’ in the need of prayer;” – African-American spiritual song. These dear people understood and believed what God had to say about all of us, regardless of our skin color. (Romans 3:10-23; 6:23; 5:8)

The Problem. American NFL player, Benjamin Watson pointed out that the problem in the world today involves sin, not one’s skin color. He’s right. [4] Candace Owens provides “A Short History of Slavery.” [5] Sadly, it will exist even during the Seven Years of the Coming Tribulation which seems to be “just around the corner” when “The Man of Sin – Antichrist” is ruling over the whole world (Revelation 18:13). [6]

God’s Will. It involves both His determinative will which cannot be altered, and His desirous will which we may or may not carry out because of the limited freedom that we have been given. (7) He desires that all of humanity be saved (1 Timothy 2:1-4). How does someone do this? (8)

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 many “raging rivers” and on “rugged mountain paths.” But we’ve been comforted by God through His Word and His people, and so we want to extend God’s comfort to you if you long for it (2 Corinthians 1:3, 4).

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

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

[1] Pete Garcia – https://www.rev310.net/post/everything-everywhere-all-at-once

[2] The Blame Game – https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2021/07/08/the-blame-game/

[3] An Unexamined Life – https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2011/01/03/an-unexamined-life/

[4] The Problem – Sin. https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2017/08/24/the-problem-sin-not-skin/

[5] A Short History of Slavery – Candace Owens https://www.prageru.com/video/a-short-history-of-slavery?gclid=CjwKCAjwsMGYBhAEEiwAGUXJaRwcAiV9LR_I9ibplx2PvdGTsp05ahXVOLsSUhFMnF8hLz5Qy-QTGxoCOGgQAvD_BwE

[6] The Order of Coming Events – https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2014/01/30/the-order-of-coming-events/

(7) The Will Of God – https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2008/05/10/the-will-of-god/

(8) The Bad News & The Good News – https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2019/04/24/the-bad-news-the-good-news/

THANK YOU: Faithful Parents, Pastors, Teachers, Counsellors, Friends

When you feel like giving up on someone, please remember this – “… God is not unjust to forget your work and labor of love which you have shown toward His name, in that you have ministered to the saints, and do minister” (Hebrews 6:10).

Every time I read this story below, I get tears in my eyes. I’m thankful for those teachers and people whom God used to shape my life to help me be what I am today. But P.B.P.G.I.N.F.W.M.Y. “Please be patient, God is not finished with me yet.”

“[I’m] confident of this very thing, that He [God] who has begun a good work in [me] will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ; …Not that I have already attained, or am already perfected; but I press on, that I may lay hold of that for which Christ Jesus has also laid hold of me. Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus (Philippians 1:6; 3:12-14).

Please read this touching story of a troubled child and do your part to make a difference in someone’s life today – https://teachersforchrist.wordpress.com/2018/08/06/teddy-stoddard/

If you are unsure of your eternal destiny, please read “The Bad News & The Good News” here: http://www.kelseypeach.com. We’re here to assist those who are teachable and willing to change and grow spiritually.

“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/

“Throwing Terrible Temper Tantrums?”

Baseball. Someone has described it as being as boring as watching paint try. It’s too slow for them. And yet from time to time the fans are shocked when they see grown men acting like little children who put on temper tantrums when the umpire calls a strike on them. Some parents are known to act this way at their children’s games. One of my nephews, who is an umpire and a referee, can attest to this. (View Opie and the Spoiled Kid episode below.) [1]

Recently I watched some clips of highly paid athletes using bats and their fists to pound on things in the dugout. They vented out their frustrations and no one tried to restrain them. Is this the way we want our children to act when they don’t get their way? Consider also the horrific casualties that come from “road rage” on the highways. “Do not be deceived: ‘Evil company corrupts good habits’” (1 Corinthians 15:33). With whom do you and your children “hang out”? What are you and they watching on TV? Who are your heroes/idols and their heroes/idols?

This reminds me of what the Minnesota Crime Commission wrote many years ago about babies. “Every baby starts life as a little savage. He is completely selfish and self-centered. He wants what he wants when he wants it: his bottle, his mother’s attention, his playmate’s toys, his uncle’s watch, or whatever. Deny him these and he seethes with rage and aggressiveness which would be murderous were he not so helpless. He’s dirty, he has no morals, no knowledge, no developed skills. This means that all children, not just certain children but all children, are born delinquent. If permitted to continue in their self-centered world of infancy, given free reign to their impulsive actions to satisfy each want, every child would grow up a criminal, a thief, a killer, a rapist.” Are we currently reaping what we’ve sown? Thanks Dr. Spock.

Lawless (sinful) behavior is on the rise all around the world just as the Scriptures predicted it would in the last days just before Christ’s second coming to rule on/over the earth for 1,000 years (Matthew 24:12; Revelation 20:1-7). One of these days these lawless people will be led and governed by the “lawless one,” better known as “the antichrist” (2 Thessalonians 2:7). He will deceive many people by performing the same kind of miracles that Jesus and His disciples did while there were here on earth (Acts 2:22; 2 Corinthians 12:12; 2 Thessalonians 2:9). We hope you will be in heaven, rather than on earth, when he comes on the scene. We don’t set dates, but these days seem to be just around the corner. [2]

But we also need to know that Christians have two natures (See Romans 7:15-25). Those who are dominated by their old sin nature rather than by their new nature from God, can act like unsaved people and engage in all the “works of the flesh” which are perversions of good things (Galatians 5:19-21). The Christians in the church in Corinth are examples of this kind of behavior (1 Corinthians 3:1 ff; 5:1 ff; 10:1 ff). When we’re tempted to act this way, we can/should rely on God the Holy Spirit for strength to overcome these strong, sinful desires (lusts) so we don’t sin (Galatians 5:16, 25; Romans 6:11-14). The temptations you have are not unique to you (1 Corinthians 10:13).

Did you know that we can/should be angry without sinning (Ephesians 4:26)? Jesus was (Matthew 21:12, 13). [3] You can learn a lot about a person by discovering what makes him/her laugh, cry, or get angry. What are others learning about you from your actions and reactions? Are you being hypocritical? Do you claim to love God and hate other Christians (John 13:34, 35; 1 John 2:9-11; 3:16, 17)? We don’t have to like what other people do, but we are supposed to seek their highest well being which may involve our speaking the truth to them in love (Ephesians 4:15; See 2 Timothy 2:24-26). We need to display the “Fruit of the Spirit” at the right time, for the right reasons, toward the right people (Galatians 5:22, 23), and for the glory of God (1 Corinthians 10:31) and the good of others (Galatians 6:10).

Believe it or not, Christians don’t have to sin but we still will sin from time to time (1 John 2:1 ff; 1 John 3:9, 10). God has provided everything we need for life and godliness within the pages of the Scriptures so we can glorify Him in a spiritually dark world (2 Peter 1:3; Philippians 2:15). “No temptation has overtaken you [Christians] except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it” (1 Corinthians 10:13).

When we, as Christians, sin (act lawlessly) we need to do three things: We need to discern/judge/be aware of what we have done (1 Corinthians 11:31), repent/change our minds about what we did (2 Corinthians 7:8-12), and then promptly confess our known sins to God our Father (i.e., say the same thing about our sins that He does about them). Then we need to claim His promise to forgive us and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness so our family fellowship with Him and other believers can be restored when we walk in the light as He is in the light (1 John 1:5-10).

When necessary, we also need to ask forgiveness from those against whom we have sinned (James 5:16). If they grant it to us, we need to ask them not to hold a grudge against us. God won’t hold against us the sins we’ve confessed to Him (See Ezekiel 33:16). But He doesn’t forget anything (Isaiah 46:10). Sometime in the future, He most likely will allow us to be tempted in the same area again so we have the opportunity to overcome the temptation and show our love for Him (James 1:12-15) rather than yield to the temptation and sin again.

If you’re not a true Christian, it’s not a matter of confessing every sin you’ve ever committed in your life before you can be saved. Neither is it that you promise God that you will never sin again, or that you will make Him the Master of your life (Lordship in exchange for salvation). It’s believing in/on the Lord Jesus Christ alone, Who died for your sins…and rose again bodily on the third day (1 Corinthians 15:3, 4; Acts 16:31). [4] Have you done this yet? If not, why not now?

Once you’ve been “born again [from above]” God wants you to grow spiritually (1 Peter 2:2; 2 Peter 3:18) [5] and serve Him and others effectively (1 Peter 4:10; Ephesians 2:10). He wants you to lead others to Christ so they can be saved (Acts 1:8). We’re here to assist you and others who are teachable and willing to change (2 Timothy 2:2, 15; 2 Timothy 3:16, 17). Contact us for more information at www.kelseypeach.com or through FB.  Please let us know if this article has helped you and SHARE it with others so we can help them too.

[1] Opie and the Spoiled Kid. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oSTdHClwwSg

[2] Coming Events: https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2016/02/20/the-order-of-coming-events-2/

[3] https://www.gotquestions.org/Jesus-angry.html

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

[5] Dr. H. L. Schafer, Maturing In Christ, Second Edition, 2016, Xuon Press

https://www.xulonpress.com/bookstore/bookdetail.php?PB_ISBN=9781609578381&HC_ISBN=

*Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson.

Used by permission. All rights reserved.

“God Will Take Care Of You”

Beloved Hymn Stories

I love to learn how certain songs came into being. What led the author to write what he/she did? Some songs have a way of sticking in my mind. What kind of songs are appealing to you? Why?  Please share some of your favorite songs with me and why you like them.

Ebenezer. This particular name was used in a Christian hymn. Do you know in which one? (If you do, let me know.)  Ebenezer was the name that the prophet Samuel gave to a rock. Yes, to a rock. It came about when the Old Testament Jews were defeated by their enemies and when the ark of the covenant was taken from them. Samuel reminded the people that they could count on God to help them in the future just as He had helped them in the past if they would turn back to the Lord. Ebenezer means “Thus far the Lord has helped us” (1 Samuel 7:12). The implication is that God hasn’t changed (Malachi 3:6; Hebrews 13:8).  He could/would could help them in the future if they would turn back to the Lord and “Trust And Obey” Him. This is the title of another wonderful song that is worthy of our consideration.

God’s Care. The song “God Will Take Care Of You” came about in the following way. “On a Sunday in 1904, Civilla Martin was in Lestershire, New York, when her husband, Walter, was compiling a collection of hymns for the Practical Bible Training School. They were planning to travel to another town that day, for Martin had a preaching assignment. Civilla woke up sick, and Martin was about to cancel his plans, when their child piped up and said, ‘Oh, Daddy, you don’t have to stay home because of mother – God will take care of us.’ Martin proceeded to the train station and fulfilled his appointment. When he returned, Civilla handed him the words of “God Will Take Care Of You,” which she had written in his absence. Going to his little organ, Martin composed the music, and it was first published in the songbook he was compiling for the school.” (Listen to it below.)

J. C. Penny. Apparently this song once served as a great encouragement to him during the depression when his business deals went sour. He heard the words to this song coming from a chapel one day as he was passing by. “Be not dismayed whate’er betide / God will take care of you.” It brought him out of his dark dungeon into the warm sunlight.

Anxiety. Are you a Christian who is full of cares and worries? Then consider these important words penned by the Apostle Paul: “Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say, rejoice! Let your gentleness be known to all men. The Lord is at hand. Be anxious for nothing, 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. Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things” (Philippians 4:4-8 NKJV). The Apostle Peter wrote: “God resists the proud, But gives grace to the humble. Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time, casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you” (1 Peter 5:5-7 NKJV). Are you doing this or worrying needlessly?

Meditate. Please reread these words and meditate on them for awhile (See Psalm 1:2 ; 1 Timothy 4:15). Let them sink into your spirit that belongs to your mind (Ephesians 4:23). Let them have an effect on your soul (emotions) too. Memorize and claim some promises that were given to us as Christians. Remember, not all the promises in the Scriptures are ours to claim. Here are a few of them that need to be mixed with faith so you can enjoy the peace of God that surpasses all understanding (Hebrews 4:2): https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2014/01/31/promises-to-claim/

Believe. This is the only condition God has placed on us if we want to be saved from eternal condemnation in the lake of fire with the devil and his angels/demons (Acts 16:31; John 3:16; Matthew 25:41, 46; Revelation 21:8). The object of our faith needs to be in the Lord Jesus Christ, (not in the Christ of the cults) who died for our sins…and rose again bodily on the third day (1 Corinthians 15:3, 4; Luke 24:33-43). Are you trusting in any of your good works to get you into heaven? If so, stop! Salvation is not of works lest anyone should boast (Ephesians 2:8, 9; Titus 3:5).

Help. We’re here to assist those who are teachable and willing to change (2 Timothy 2:2, 15). We can be reached through our website: www.kelseypeach.com. If this meditation has helped you, please let us know and then share it with someone else who may need some comfort from God and His Word (2 Corinthians 1:3, 4). To receive future articles as them come out, click on “Follow.”

Stories in this article adapted from “Then Sings My Soul” by Robert Morgan, Thomas Nelson Publishers, p. 259

If you’re not sure of your salvation, please read this: https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2019/04/24/the-bad-news-the-good-news/

If you are full of anxiety and fears about the future, listen to these songs: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=92_BfspZngQ

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MdZ7RdF07Eo

God Honoring Music: www.abidingradio.org

“A Christian In Crisis”

“There is perhaps no more potent power on earth than a [believer] in the midst of crisis. Both [King] Nebuchadnezzar [of Babylon] and [King] Darius [of Medo-Persia – modern day Iran] gave public praise to Daniel’s God [Jehovah] when they saw Daniel’s stability in the midst of adversity (Daniel 4:37; 6:25-27).

Glorifying God. If you’re a Christian, do you want to bring glory and honor to God like Daniel did? The key is your reaction to situations where it’s tough to be a Christian! Consider the promotion you deserved (but didn’t get), the speeding ticked you got (but didn’t deserve), the time you did what was right (but it turned out all wrong) – those are the occasions when your faith is in the “fishbowl.” What are others learning about your God from your life? – Adapted from Your Daily Walk, Walk Thru The Bible, p. 278

The Apostle Paul. He wrote, “Yes, and all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution” (2 Timothy 3:12). He also wrote, “For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us” (Romans 8:18). Was he familiar with suffering? He certainly was. “Are they ministers of Christ?—I speak as a fool—I am more: in labors more abundant, in stripes above measure, in prisons more frequently, in deaths often. From the Jews five times I received forty stripes minus one. [That is 195 times.]  Three times I was beaten with rods; once I was stoned; three times I was shipwrecked; a night and a day I have been in the deep;   in journeys often, in perils of waters, in perils of robbers, in perils of my own countrymen, in perils of the Gentiles, in perils in the city, in perils in the wilderness, in perils in the sea, in perils among false brethren;   in weariness and toil, in sleeplessness often, in hunger and thirst, in fastings often, in cold and nakedness—  besides the other things, what comes upon me daily: my deep concern for all the churches”  (2 Corinthians 11:23-28 NKJV).  Why did he do all this?  “…I endure all things for the sake of the elect, that they also may obtain the salvation which is in Christ Jesus with eternal glory” (2 Timothy 2:10 NKJV).

The Lord Jesus Christ. His sufferings were predicted by the Prophet Isaiah long before Jesus the Christ (Messiah) came down from heaven to this earth to live a sinless life and then die for our sins and then be raised from the dead so that we could be saved. “Surely He has borne our griefs and carried our sorrows; Yet we esteemed Him stricken, smitten by God, and afflicted.  But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities; The chastisement for our peace was upon Him, and by His stripes we are healed.  All we like sheep have gone astray; We have turned, every one, to his own way; And the Lord has laid on Him the iniquity of us all.  He was oppressed and He was afflicted, yet He opened not His mouth; He was led as a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before its shearers is silent, so He opened not His mouth” (Isaiah 53:4-7). Christians have a High Priest who can sympathize with our weaknesses. He was tempted in all points as we are, yet without sin. So let us come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need (Hebrews 4:15, 16).

Temptations/Trials. “No temptation has overtaken [a Christian] except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it” (1 Corinthians 10:13).  The Lord’s half brother, James wrote – “My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials,  knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience.  But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing…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” (James 1:2-4, 12).

Came To Pass. The trials that Christians experience in this life came to pass. Contrary to what one “Preacher” says, our best life is yet to come. The unsaved person’s best life is right now. Without Christ as their personal Savior, their future is bleak (Matthew 25:41, 46; Revelation 21:8). Why not let them know that the Lord Jesus Christ died for their sins…and rose again bodily on the third day? Invite them to believe on Him alone (Ephesians 2:8 9) and be saved. Doing this could earn for you the “Crown of Rejoicing” (1 Thessalonians 2:19, 20).

Promise. “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 kindness, undying love.” Author: Annie Johnson Flint

Help. If you’re struggling under a load that seems unbearable, cast your cares and concerns on the Lord because He cares for you. Beware of Satan’s devices and attempts to crush you with disappointment, discouragement, and doubt or by some other means (1 Peter 5:7, 8). As Christians, we can/should bear one another’s burdens and fulfill the law of Christ (Galatians 6:2; See also John 13:34, 35; 1 John 3:16, 17).

Follow. If you’d like to receive future articles as they come out, click on “Follow.” Let us know if this article has helped you. Share it with others too.

The Clear Gospel:  http://www.cleargospel.org/wp-content/uploads/English-Display-Pkg-2014.pdf

“Stress – Gone With The Wind”

“As quick as a click, it was gone. All of it. Two weeks of work, including a Saturday when he could have flown a kite with his kids. Two weeks of peering into the amber glow of a computer screen. Two weeks of honing, fine-tuning, and formatting. Gone with the wind. Gone to that twilight zone where all erased computer messages exist in perpetual limbo.” This is what Chuck Swindoll wrote about his editor, Larry Libby, in the introduction of his book entitled “Stress Fractures.”

Stress. If you’re like the rest of us, you have stressful incidents that come into your life from time to time. How we respond to them is very critical to us and those around us. Believe it or not, God tells us in His Word that He wants all true Christians to “give thanks in the midst of every situation” that comes into our lives (1 Thessalonians 5:18). Doing this and giving thanks for all things and for all men isn’t possible unless a believer is filled with God the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 5:18-20; 1 Timothy 2:1). To be filled with the Holy Spirit, we must make sure that we aren’t grieving or quenching Him (Ephesians 4:30; 1 Thessalonians 5:19). Do you know what this entails?

Joseph. After spending many years in prison for something he didn’t do, and when he could have taken vengeance out on his brothers who had mistreated him, Joseph said, “But as for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good, in order to bring it about as it is this day, to save many people alive” (Genesis 39:13-23; 50:20).

Promise. “And we [Christians] know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose” (Romans 8:28). Not all Christians love God and keep His commandments to New Testament believers (John 13:34, 35; 14:15). Maturing Christians are told not to love the present world system (1 John 2:15-17). Do you know what it is that you aren’t supposed to love?

World System. Among other things, it consists of human government, commerce, entertainment, education, industry, and senseless warfare (Genesis 4:16-26; Luke 11:50, 51). “In the sense of the present world system, the ethically bad sense of the word refers to the order or arrangement under which Satan has organized the world of unbelieving mankind upon his cosmic principles of force, greed, selfishness, ambition, and pleasure…[It] is imposing and powerful with military might; is often outwardly religious, scientific, cultured, and elegant; but, seething with national and commercial rivalries and ambitions, is upheld in any real crisis only by armed force, and is dominated by satanic principles.” – Taken from Scofield Study Bible note Revelation 13:8. As Christians, we can use the world system, but we are not to love it or abuse it (1 John 2:15-17; 1Corinthians 7:31).

Believe. This is the only condition placed on an unsaved person for him/her to be saved. “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and you will be saved” (Acts 16:31). He is the One who died for our sins…and who rose again bodily on the third day (1 Corinthians 15:3, 4). Believe on Him through these facts and you will be saved and can have assurance of your salvation (Ephesians 2:8, 9; 1 John 5:13; Romans 8:16). Beware of those who teach “Lordship in exchange for salvation.” (See Below)

Help. If you aren’t sure of your eternal destiny, or if you need spiritual help, we’re here to try to assist you. Our website was designed to help people like  you: www.kelseypeach.com.  If this article has helped you, we’d like to hear from you. Please share this with others too. To receive future articles as they come out, click on “Follow.”

Lordship In Exchange For Salvation. https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/category/lordship-salvation/

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

God Honoring Music: www.abidingradio.org