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Who’s In The Bottom Of Your Boat

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Mark 4:35-41

[35] And the same day, when the even was come, he saith unto them, Let us pass over unto the other side.
[36] And when they had sent away the multitude, they took him even as he was in the ship. And there were also with him other little ships.
[37] And there arose a great storm of wind, and the waves beat into the ship, so that it was now full.
[38] And he was in the hinder part of the ship, asleep on a pillow: and they awake him, and say unto him, Master, carest thou not that we perish?
[39] And he arose, and rebuked the wind, and said unto the sea, Peace, be still. And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm.
[40] And he said unto them, Why are ye so fearful? how is it that ye have no faith?
[41] And they feared exceedingly, and said one to another, What manner of man is this, that even the wind and the sea obey him?

Here we begin at our lord’s long day of preaching.

The crowd was so great he had to teach from a boat

Topics were:

  • the parable of the sower
  • the candle under a bushel
  • the coming harvest
  • the mustard seed

He closes the day’s end with his disciples in an adventure they would never forget

The promise at evening 35 – let us pass over to the other side

  • speaks of a journey with Jesus
  • speaks of his fellowship on the other side
  • speaks of safe passage from the journey

The Christian life is like this journey

  • we may be weary when he calls us
  • we decide to travel with him
  • he goes with us through the entire journey
  • we are not only helped through the storm but are unto heaven eternal

The Peril of the storm (v. 37)

  • There arose a great storm of wind
  • The waves were beating upon the ship

Lessons we can learn from the disciples:

  • they were obeying yet the storm came
  • they were traveling with Jesus, yet the storm came
  • they were in the center of his will, yet the storm came

Storms come to us all!

The purpose of the storm (v. 38-41)

  • Jesus knew the storm would come
  • He was equipped to send the storm away
  • Rather than send it away he chose to go through the storm with his disciples

The storm enabled them to measure their faith

  • They learned that Christ was with them in the storm
  • They learned that he is up to any occasion

There are different storms for different purposes

  • Jonah’s storm was to bring him back to the lord
  • Paul’s storm was to provide a witnessing opportunity

This storm was to build their faith

Don’t judge the purpose of another’s storm

 

What Was In That Mud?

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John 9:1-25

[1] And as Jesus passed by, he saw a man which was blind from his birth.
[2] And his disciples asked him, saying, Master, who did sin, this man, or his parents, that he was born blind?
[3] Jesus answered, Neither hath this man sinned, nor his parents: but that the works of God should be made manifest in him.
[4] I must work the works of him that sent me, while it is day: the night cometh, when no man can work.
[5] As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world.
[6] When he had thus spoken, he spat on the ground, and made clay of the spittle, and he anointed the eyes of the blind man with the clay,
[7] And said unto him, Go, wash in the pool of Siloam, (which is by interpretation, Sent.) He went his way therefore, and washed, and came seeing.
[8] The neighbours therefore, and they which before had seen him that he was blind, said, Is not this he that sat and begged?
[9] Some said, This is he: others said, He is like him: but he said, I am he.
[10] Therefore said they unto him, How were thine eyes opened?
[11] He answered and said, A man that is called Jesus made clay, and anointed mine eyes, and said unto me, Go to the pool of Siloam, and wash: and I went and washed, and I received sight.
[12] Then said they unto him, Where is he? He said, I know not.
[13] They brought to the Pharisees him that aforetime was blind.
[14] And it was the sabbath day when Jesus made the clay, and opened his eyes.
[15] Then again the Pharisees also asked him how he had received his sight. He said unto them, He put clay upon mine eyes, and I washed, and do see.
[16] Therefore said some of the Pharisees, This man is not of God, because he keepeth not the sabbath day. Others said, How can a man that is a sinner do such miracles? And there was a division among them.
[17] They say unto the blind man again, What sayest thou of him, that he hath opened thine eyes? He said, He is a prophet.
[18] But the Jews did not believe concerning him, that he had been blind, and received his sight, until they called the parents of him that had received his sight.
[19] And they asked them, saying, Is this your son, who ye say was born blind? how then doth he now see?
[20] His parents answered them and said, We know that this is our son, and that he was born blind:
[21] But by what means he now seeth, we know not; or who hath opened his eyes, we know not: he is of age; ask him: he shall speak for himself.
[22] These words spake his parents, because they feared the Jews: for the Jews had agreed already, that if any man did confess that he was Christ, he should be put out of the synagogue.
[23] Therefore said his parents, He is of age; ask him.
[24] Then again called they the man that was blind, and said unto him, Give God the praise: we know that this man is a sinner.
[25] He answered and said, Whether he be a sinner or no, I know not: one thing I know, that, whereas I was blind, now I see.

So what is in this mystery of the healing of this blind man? Blind from birth, this man had never known sight. This means everything that sight would give you he never experienced or possessed. All of the good or bad, all of life’s splendor, all of life’s shame, none of it.

In one perspective you can see the man’s lack of sight to life in the same way that you see that we are blinded to the sin that keeps us without a vision to change.

1 – The poor blind man could not see Jesus, but Jesus could see him.

2-3 – Jesus speaks to his blindness that this and other things are not just because someone sinned but are for the glory of God.

4-5 We must learn to do as Jesus said and work the day and not waste time. For in our time we should be resting our work cannot be accomplished. You can walk away and not work while it is day but when you need to rest the works that would have brought peace leave you restless.

John 1:1-3

[1] In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.
[2] The same was in the beginning with God.
[3] All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made.

6-7 – Human reason cannot judge of the Lord’s methods. God will use the things that we as people despise. I do not know about you but if I were blind the last sound I would want to hear is someone spitting! So such is our attitude towards God regarding our blessings.

He went to the pool wondering and came back seeing. Souls go weak and come back with strength. People go doubting and come back satisfied, go mourning and come back rejoicing, go blind and come back seeing!

8-24 – Jesus’ commandment to the blind man is a representation of how we follow the command of the Holy Spirit. We do not know from where and whence it comes as it is referred to in the word as being likened unto the wind. Jesus used something that was an offense to the unbelieving and religious to teach about the powerful effects of the gospel.

25 – This blind man defied the fear of men and only offered to their anger what he received in faith. Whether he is a sinner or no I know not. What I do know whereas I was blind but now I see. This is the same fight that we fight today.

Proverbs 29:23,25

[23] A man’s pride shall bring him low: but honour shall uphold the humble in spirit.
[24] Whoso is partner with a thief hateth his own soul: he heareth cursing, and bewrayeth it not.
[25] The fear of man bringeth a snare: but whoso putteth his trust in the LORD shall be safe.

Do not let what people make you fear keep you from doing the good work while your life is day (while you still can!)

The Gift Of Compassion

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Matthew 9:35-38

[35] And Jesus went about all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing every sickness and every disease among the people.
[36] But when he saw the multitudes, he was moved with compassion on them, because they fainted, and were scattered abroad, as sheep having no shepherd.
[37] Then saith he unto his disciples, The harvest truly is plenteous, but the labourers are few;
[38] Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he will send forth labourers into his harvest.

Let’s break it down a bit to the perspective of compassion:

The harvest, or the potential for the hope of the lost to be helped

Is plenteous, or more than enough (running over even)

But the laborers, or the cultivators of a harvest

Are few, or not enough

If there is anything that we need to have (and promote) to the lost and dying world, it is compassion. It is the one thing that you cannot have without having a selfless love; it is the one thing that God had for man so that we can go free from sin, and even as a man Christ had compassion for us!

Zechariah 11:17

[17] Woe to the idol shepherd that leaveth the flock! the sword shall be upon his arm, and upon his right eye: his arm shall be clean dried up, and his right eye shall be utterly darkened.

One must be careful to not allow themselves to fall into a state of idleness; for by doing this you can hurt other people that need you to help but have you do nothing.

Galatians 6:1-10

[1] Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted.
[2] Bear ye one another’s burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ.
[3] For if a man think himself to be something, when he is nothing, he deceiveth himself.
[4] But let every man prove his own work, and then shall he have rejoicing in himself alone, and not in another.
[5] For every man shall bear his own burden.
[6] Let him that is taught in the word communicate unto him that teacheth in all good things.
[7] Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.
[8] For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting.
[9] And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.
[10] As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith.

Exercise compassion by having an understanding of others’ burdens and learn to bear them together so that you will be strong enough to overcome your own.

Tradition Will Make The Gospel Of None Effect

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Matthew 15: 1-9

[1] Then came to Jesus scribes and Pharisees, which were of Jerusalem, saying,
[2] Why do thy disciples transgress the tradition of the elders? for they wash not their hands when they eat bread.
[3] But he answered and said unto them, Why do ye also transgress the commandment of God by your tradition?
[4] For God commanded, saying, Honour thy father and mother: and, He that curseth father or mother, let him die the death.
[5] But ye say, Whosoever shall say to his father or his mother, It is a gift, by whatsoever thou mightest be profited by me;
[6] And honour not his father or his mother, he shall be free. Thus have ye made the commandment of God of none effect by your tradition.
[7] Ye hypocrites, well did Esaias prophesy of you, saying,
[8] This people draweth nigh unto me with their mouth, and honoureth me with their lips; but their heart is far from me.
[9] But in vain they do worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men.

A tradition is a ritual, belief or object passed down within a society. Every type of group (family, community, church, religion, organizations, etc.) has traditions. If we are not very careful, we will make the Gospel of none effect by tradition. In Matthew 15 we find the Scribes and Pharisees are in opposition against Christ because the Disciples didn’t follow their tradition of washing their hands before they ate bread. Their intent was to find fault with Christ. Jesus ignored their tradition because He knew it was not scriptural. Knowing their hearts, he did however speak to them of a commandment they were not keeping. Notice the commandment was from God whereas the tradition was of a carnal nature. Jesus told them they were not honoring their father or mother but were giving their estate to the Temple so they wouldn’t have to take care of their aged parents. This freed them from their responsibility. But Jesus told them they had made the Commandment of God to Honour their father and mother of none effect by their tradition. I have visited many churches over the last few years and have found each church worships somewhat differently. Should I be offended that one church may worship God differently than I or should they be offended if I worship God differently than they? No, tradition should not matter but only that God is worshiped in spirit and truth.

I don’t want to worship in vain which means that my worship would not be accepted by God although it might meet the standards of man. I want to worship with my heart no matter how it may impact my flesh or those around me. I might look foolish and act differently from others but whatever God wants I want to be willing and ready to do. The Pharisees were offended at Christ because He didn’t follow their tradition. It is okay if others are offended as long as I am following what He wants in my life. If those around you get offended because you are obedient to God’s call on your life, then let them alone and press forward. This is what Christ did. He let them alone and departed into the coasts of Tyre and Sidon where there was a Canaanite woman with a daughter who needed healing. If you are willing, God has much in store for you to learn and obtain. For years, I was wrapped up in traditions. I wasn’t listening for God to speak or for God to give me knowledge but I was taking the knowledge that another person had passed onto me instead of seeking God’s will and guidance for my life personally. Don’t be guilty of doing something because this is the way it has been done for years but ask God, Lord what would you have me do, where do you want me to be, what do you want me to say, what do you want me to do. Lord, I want to be what you want me to be. Please forgive me for not being effective in my life and in my worship of you.

Learning From The Rich Man

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This was from a message that I preached a little while back. We didn’t have an opportunity to capture the audio that night, so here is the notes from the night!

To start, let’s read Mark 10:17-31

[17] And when he was gone forth into the way, there came one running, and kneeled to him, and asked him, Good Master, what shall I do that I may inherit eternal life?
[18] And Jesus said unto him, Why callest thou me good? there is none good but one, that is, God.
[19] Thou knowest the commandments, Do not commit adultery, Do not kill, Do not steal, Do not bear false witness, Defraud not, Honour thy father and mother.
[20] And he answered and said unto him, Master, all these have I observed from my youth.
[21] Then Jesus beholding him loved him, and said unto him, One thing thou lackest: go thy way, sell whatsoever thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come, take up the cross, and follow me.
[22] And he was sad at that saying, and went away grieved: for he had great possessions.
[23] And Jesus looked round about, and saith unto his disciples, How hardly shall they that have riches enter into the kingdom of God!
[24] And the disciples were astonished at his words. But Jesus answereth again, and saith unto them, Children, how hard is it for them that trust in riches to enter into the kingdom of God!
[25] It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God.
[26] And they were astonished out of measure, saying among themselves, Who then can be saved?
[27] And Jesus looking upon them saith, With men it is impossible, but not with God: for with God all things are possible.
[28] Then Peter began to say unto him, Lo, we have left all, and have followed thee.
[29] And Jesus answered and said, Verily I say unto you, There is no man that hath left house, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my sake, and the gospel’s,
[30] But he shall receive an hundredfold now in this time, houses, and brethren, and sisters, and mothers, and children, and lands, with persecutions; and in the world to come eternal life.
[31] But many that are first shall be last; and the last first.

17 – in the beginning this person came running, or in a hurry to try and find the answer

18 – Christ identifies initially the praise that is given (Good Master) but then begins to get right to the inner depths of the heart

19 – Christ then identifies what we typically know as the general head knowledge of the law of the word of God

20 – The person, thinking they had the answer begins to examine their-self based on this alone and find pride and confidence in thinking they understood and had all they needed.

21 – Then! Just when the flesh thought that it had the answer, Christ begins to open up the understanding to what was still lacking: the laying off of the pleasures (desire to sin) that unless laid off produces a by-product of what we enjoy (riches in this life) AND to pick up persecution and to have faith

22 – What we often consider as brokenness or what appears to be a humbled countenance is actually grieved because they cannot let go

23 – Jesus further adds how this will result with no change

24-25 – Christ brings clarity to the disciples first confusion about this revelation

26-27 – To the unreasonable response of the disciples Jesus then reminds them of eternal life

28-30 – Peter began to speak about how they had followed Him (Jesus), and then reminds those that are trying to follow that you must have some persecution!

31 – First are those who come and will not give up, therein having no eternal hope (or representing last). Last are those who come willingly to believe, accept and obey God’s will, and become blessed and saved children of God!

Spiritual Encounters Matter

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Psalm 16:11

[11] Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in thy presence is fulness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore.

This verse is the theme for the entire message and the basis for the word that God had sent unto me, which is simply: more joy comes as you follow the path of life through obedience in God!

Isaiah 6:1-9

[1] In the year that king Uzziah died I saw also the Lord sitting upon a throne, high and lifted up, and his train filled the temple.
[2] Above it stood the seraphims: each one had six wings; with twain he covered his face, and with twain he covered his feet, and with twain he did fly.
[3] And one cried unto another, and said, Holy, holy, holy, is the LORD of hosts: the whole earth is full of his glory.
[4] And the posts of the door moved at the voice of him that cried, and the house was filled with smoke.
[5] Then said I, Woe is me! for I am undone; because I am a man of unclean lips, and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips: for mine eyes have seen the King, the LORD of hosts.
[6] Then flew one of the seraphims unto me, having a live coal in his hand, which he had taken with the tongs from off the altar:
[7] And he laid it upon my mouth, and said, Lo, this hath touched thy lips; and thine iniquity is taken away, and thy sin purged.
[8] Also I heard the voice of the Lord, saying, Whom shall I send, and who will go for us? Then said I, Here am I; send me.
[9] And he said, Go, and tell this people, Hear ye indeed, but understand not; and see ye indeed, but perceive not.

Isaiah beheld God, heeded to His voice when the spirit came down and he responded to it. Had love not took action in his heart, Isaiah would have missed his destiny, his calling.

This encounter resulted in a cleansing, commissioning, and a sending forth of a worker of God to do great things!

Matthew 28:16-20

[16] Then the eleven disciples went away into Galilee, into a mountain where Jesus had appointed them.
[17] And when they saw him, they worshipped him: but some doubted.
[18] And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth.
[19] Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:
[20] Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.

This encounter resulted in the turning point in History for the groundbreaking work of the sending forth of the Gospel, or the great Commission as we know it. Imagine if in their heart that all would have doubted. And I’m sure that at some points in our lives we all doubt that call. But has Jesus calls us up into the mountains and high places we just need to put love into action! We need to demonstrate love in action!

Acts 1:4-11

[4] And, being assembled together with them, commanded them that they should not depart from Jerusalem, but wait for the promise of the Father, which, saith he, ye have heard of me.
[5] For John truly baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost not many days hence.
[6] When they therefore were come together, they asked of him, saying, Lord, wilt thou at this time restore again the kingdom to Israel?
[7] And he said unto them, It is not for you to know the times or the seasons, which the Father hath put in his own power.
[8] But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.
[9] And when he had spoken these things, while they beheld, he was taken up; and a cloud received him out of their sight.
[10] And while they looked stedfastly toward heaven as he went up, behold, two men stood by them in white apparel;
[11] Which also said, Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? this same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven.

Acts 2:1-4

[1] And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place.
[2] And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting.
[3] And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them.
[4] And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.

The result of this encounter was 3000 people were filled with the Holy Ghost at the obedience of 120! And yet, we think with our regular attendance sometimes that we are far away from a wonderful move of God! To me, I personally think we are just a whisper away.

Acts 13:1-3

[1] Now there were in the church that was at Antioch certain prophets and teachers; as Barnabas, and Simeon that was called Niger, and Lucius of Cyrene, and Manaen, which had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch, and Saul.
[2] As they ministered to the Lord, and fasted, the Holy Ghost said, Separate me Barnabas and Saul for the work whereunto I have called them.
[3] And when they had fasted and prayed, and laid their hands on them, they sent them away.

Paul’s (then Saul) first missionary Journey was commissioned when they were putting love into action as they were obedient unto God. So often we are waiting for great things and we are just one more act of obedience away from it!

Acts 16:25-34

[25] And at midnight Paul and Silas prayed, and sang praises unto God: and the prisoners heard them.
[26] And suddenly there was a great earthquake, so that the foundations of the prison were shaken: and immediately all the doors were opened, and every one’s bands were loosed.
[27] And the keeper of the prison awaking out of his sleep, and seeing the prison doors open, he drew out his sword, and would have killed himself, supposing that the prisoners had been fled.
[28] But Paul cried with a loud voice, saying, Do thyself no harm: for we are all here.
[29] Then he called for a light, and sprang in, and came trembling, and fell down before Paul and Silas,
[30] And brought them out, and said, Sirs, what must I do to be saved?
[31] And they said, Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved, and thy house.
[32] And they spake unto him the word of the Lord, and to all that were in his house.
[33] And he took them the same hour of the night, and washed their stripes; and was baptized, he and all his, straightway.
[34] And when he had brought them into his house, he set meat before them, and rejoiced, believing in God with all his house.

The result of this encounter saved the Philippian jailer and his whole household and received Jesus! Other prisoners also got the opportunity to receive God’s power! So what am I saying? God loves us where we are, but He is calling us to move on! You can praise your way out of any prison if you know how to worship! Worship is a verb! It is love in action!

I Give Regard To God Above All Things

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Luke 12:22-40

[22] And he said unto his disciples, Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat; neither for the body, what ye shall put on.
[23] The life is more than meat, and the body is more than raiment.
[24] Consider the ravens: for they neither sow nor reap; which neither have storehouse nor barn; and God feedeth them: how much more are ye better than the fowls?
[25] And which of you with taking thought can add to his stature one cubit?
[26] If ye then be not able to do that thing which is least, why take ye thought for the rest?
[27] Consider the lilies how they grow: they toil not, they spin not; and yet I say unto you, that Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these.
[28] If then God so clothe the grass, which is to day in the field, and to morrow is cast into the oven; how much more will he clothe you, O ye of little faith?
[29] And seek not ye what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink, neither be ye of doubtful mind.
[30] For all these things do the nations of the world seek after: and your Father knoweth that ye have need of these things.
[31] But rather seek ye the kingdom of God; and all these things shall be added unto you.
[32] Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom.
[33] Sell that ye have, and give alms; provide yourselves bags which wax not old, a treasure in the heavens that faileth not, where no thief approacheth, neither moth corrupteth.
[34] For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.
[35] Let your loins be girded about, and your lights burning;
[36] And ye yourselves like unto men that wait for their lord, when he will return from the wedding; that when he cometh and knocketh, they may open unto him immediately.
[37] Blessed are those servants, whom the lord when he cometh shall find watching: verily I say unto you, that he shall gird himself, and make them to sit down to meat, and will come forth and serve them.
[38] And if he shall come in the second watch, or come in the third watch, and find them so, blessed are those servants.
[39] And this know, that if the goodman of the house had known what hour the thief would come, he would have watched, and not have suffered his house to be broken through.
[40] Be ye therefore ready also: for the Son of man cometh at an hour when ye think not.

This is not only a word of preparation, but a word of encouragement to know that we have a way to be prepared for no matter what is to come. The most important thing I would like to stress from this passage is the “take no thought”. Please do not think this is to not give any consideration whatsoever. This word was intended to remind them of the importance and priority of God and to not allow the wordly influences to supercede. Many people in that time valued their garments and religion far more than they did anything else, and even in the day we live in we still see that desire as a battle unto our flesh! The encouraging word for me is about the raven, simply because a raven does not give regard for the next meal. I guess you could say one animals lack of regard for the next provision should be the stirring of our faith for the victory in the next trial!

2 Timothy 4:1-6

[1] I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom;
[2] Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine.
[3] For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears;
[4] And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables.
[5] But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry.
[6] For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand.

Paul was emphasizing that once you had the word of Christ in your life to be ready no matter what and to be prepared to face many circumstances such as rejection, difference of opinion, and even opposition to your obedience. He was reminding those in that time (and if we read it, for us as well) that sufferings will be present but the presence of God will be there to make a way for you through all things as well!

1 Peter 5:2

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

Most importantly, as a friendly reminder to you I want to say that even though it is hard but to stay willing and flexible to what God has for you in His plan. It may seem hard, impossible or without logic to our own minds; however God’s ways are above ours and we need to hang in there and hold on with all we have until we have that breakthrough for ourselves and our loved ones! And trust me, it’s worth the wait!

Learning From God’s Tests

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Luke 22:31-32

[31] And the Lord said, Simon, Simon, behold, Satan hath desired to have you, that he may sift you as wheat:
[32] But I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not: and when thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren.

Jesus always tested Peter in unique ways. However, Peter was not the last person to be tested with the pressures of knowing Jesus. What was Jesus preparing him for by doing this?

John 21:14-17

[14] This is now the third time that Jesus shewed himself to his disciples, after that he was risen from the dead.
[15] So when they had dined, Jesus saith to Simon Peter, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me more than these? He saith unto him, Yea, Lord; thou knowest that I love thee. He saith unto him, Feed my lambs.
[16] He saith to him again the second time, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me? He saith unto him, Yea, Lord; thou knowest that I love thee. He saith unto him, Feed my sheep.
[17] He saith unto him the third time, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me? Peter was grieved because he said unto him the third time, Lovest thou me? And he said unto him, Lord, thou knowest all things; thou knowest that I love thee. Jesus saith unto him, Feed my sheep.

Lambs are young sheep. If you love him you will be obedient. You will sing, you will shout, you will feed the sheep! He accepted Christ 3 times here, and was tested in denying him 3 times in another reference. Peter was definitely being prepared, as we all are each and every day!

2 Peter 1:5-15

[5] And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge;
[6] And to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness;
[7] And to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity.
[8] For if these things be in you, and abound, they make you that ye shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.
[9] But he that lacketh these things is blind, and cannot see afar off, and hath forgotten that he was purged from his old sins.
[10] Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure: for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall:
[11] For so an entrance shall be ministered unto you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.
[12] Wherefore I will not be negligent to put you always in remembrance of these things, though ye know them, and be established in the present truth.
[13] Yea, I think it meet, as long as I am in this tabernacle, to stir you up by putting you in remembrance;
[14] Knowing that shortly I must put off this my tabernacle, even as our Lord Jesus Christ hath shewed me.
[15] Moreover I will endeavour that ye may be able after my decease to have these things always in remembrance.

One of my favorite passages to read!

Some key terms to bear in mind:

  • Diligence – attention or care expected of a person
  • Faith – substance of things hoped for and evidence of things not seen
  • Virtue – courage or strength
  • Knowledge – gained understanding from learning or experience
  • Temperance – self-control, moderation in action
  • Patience – endurance and steadfast continuity in faithful service
  • Godliness – the quality of honoring ones duties to God
  • Brotherly kindness – the kind of love we share to one another
    • Charity – the highest kind of love, more inclusive than brotherly kindness, it is the kind of love God has for us

As long as we are here, put into remembrance that when we are gone that we leave behind something for people to keep that will save them! We do not need to live near-sighted in God, not being able to see the greater vision. We also need to learn to get out of being barren and unfruitful.

Matthew 14:24-33

[24] But the ship was now in the midst of the sea, tossed with waves: for the wind was contrary.
[25] And in the fourth watch of the night Jesus went unto them, walking on the sea.
[26] And when the disciples saw him walking on the sea, they were troubled, saying, It is a spirit; and they cried out for fear.
[27] But straightway Jesus spake unto them, saying, Be of good cheer; it is I; be not afraid.
[28] And Peter answered him and said, Lord, if it be thou, bid me come unto thee on the water.
[29] And he said, Come. And when Peter was come down out of the ship, he walked on the water, to go to Jesus.
[30] But when he saw the wind boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink, he cried, saying, Lord, save me.
[31] And immediately Jesus stretched forth his hand, and caught him, and said unto him, O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt?
[32] And when they were come into the ship, the wind ceased.
[33] Then they that were in the ship came and worshipped him, saying, Of a truth thou art the Son of God.

How many of us today are saying what Peter did? Lord if it be you, bid me to come! They did not recognize him on the waters in the storm, and that is how it is sometimes in our lives. What can we do to save ourselves? Come!

Where We Find Our Worth

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John 12:25-26

[25] He that loveth his life shall lose it; and he that hateth his life in this world shall keep it unto life eternal.
[26] If any man serve me, let him follow me; and where I am, there shall also my servant be: if any man serve me, him will my Father honour.

When we love this world and not God, we come out in a loss because we do not have Jesus. We find ourselves in less want of what’s out there and more of the spiritual things that truly (in the long run) will spare us from so much suffering. I wish I would have known in my youth what I know today. I know that today where my heart is in my life is not upon what I find to be of worth. As we place God first, the worth of all the things that use to be still having a place, but have the place they should be! I would rather lose everything in this world as to losing the presence of God in my life. It’s my lifeline for so many things. I couldn’t go on without it, and yet so many do and walk with so many things pulling them down. We need to help people be led to examine themselves in a way where they realize that God must be first to succeed here and when our lives finally reach their end.

Mark 10:20-27

[20] And he answered and said unto him, Master, all these have I observed from my youth.
[21] Then Jesus beholding him loved him, and said unto him, One thing thou lackest: go thy way, sell whatsoever thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come, take up the cross, and follow me.
[22] And he was sad at that saying, and went away grieved: for he had great possessions.
[23] And Jesus looked round about, and saith unto his disciples, How hardly shall they that have riches enter into the kingdom of God!
[24] And the disciples were astonished at his words. But Jesus answereth again, and saith unto them, Children, how hard is it for them that trust in riches to enter into the kingdom of God!
[25] It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God.
[26] And they were astonished out of measure, saying among themselves, Who then can be saved?
[27] And Jesus looking upon them saith, With men it is impossible, but not with God: for with God all things are possible.

There is a price to pay, and it is simply giving up the part of our life that is tearing us apart. When something is painful to give up or puts you on the defense for it, generally that should signify you that “hey, this means something to you”. If it is something that is destroying your life, then truly we must see that there is a better way to go forward than the things that would destroy us. We cannot enter into the Kingdom of God with all of our baggage; in other words sin cannot be the dominant force of my life. Salvation and the belief and confession of Jesus Christ must happen!

Matthew 6:19-21

[19] Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal:
[20] But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal:
[21] For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.

Where we are every day, and where God is in our lives is exactly where we stand. Let’s consider the contents of those treasures. Maybe you don’t want to today, but while you have a chance I strongly suggest you take the time to take inventory of what’s going on inside and surrounding you! It can only help you!

John 14:1-4

[1] Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me.
[2] In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you.
[3] And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.
[4] And whither I go ye know, and the way ye know.

We all have a place in Heaven if we want it, if we choose to follow, if we choose to believe! Call out and believe today! Don’t wait! It’s the best decision of your life!

Steps For A Blessed Life

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Matthew 5:1-3

[1] And seeing the multitudes, he went up into a mountain: and when he was set, his disciples came unto him:
[2] And he opened his mouth, and taught them, saying,
[3] Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

Those who have a conscious need or (1) Humility. When we begin to apply humility, our view of what is important begins to be lowered and our lives can start to be humbled by God. This is an important step because without it we cannot unlock love and compassion for others!

Matthew 5:4

[4] Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted.

(2)Penitence (mourning for sin) – or mourning in faith for the comfort of God. When we practice penitence, it brings remorse for the sins we have committed and allows us to repent (or turn back) to God. If we learn to look at ourselves and recognize our mistakes, it helps us to not be afraid or to actually get down to our problems and allow God to help us with them.

Matthew 5:5

[5] Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth.

The birth of a new spirit in you through (3) Meekness. Meekness in use will become submissive humbleness, and how powerful that can be in your walk with God! We will learn to become patient in our trials and learn to be humble and know that God is surely with us. This will help us to cling to God and not search beyond that!

Matthew 5:6

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

Growth – through a (4) Spiritual Appetite through the seeking after God. An appetite represents a strong desire for something, and we have a strong desire for God we will not be easily moved by anything (regardless of what we could define here)!

Matthew 5:7

[7] Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy.

An attribute of God that demonstrates (5) Mercifulness. Mercy is complete and total compassion. When we have compassion on others, we’ll look beyond their faults and help them find God and get them to a place where they are on the stable foundation (with a strong spiritual rooted life as well).

Matthew 5:8

[8] Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God.

An attainment of higher attitudes, where comes the vision of God, comes the (6) Purity of Heart. Purity is the freedom from contamination. When our heart is clean and not corrupted with what could come to break it, God can use a vessel that is strong and able to continue and endure!

Matthew 5:9

[9] Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God.

A Christ-like influence calming life’s storms is (7) Peacemaking. Peacemaking is applied practice in making peace and settling disputes. All that you ever hear is more disputes being made. God wants us to be peacemakers; for when we walk to please others and love them, it demonstrates God within you.

Matthew 5:10-12

[10] Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness’ sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
[11] Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake.
[12] Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you.

Reaching the pinnacle, when you are able to endure the (8) Suffering for Christ! When we learn to bear the pain and distress of being obedient vessels, it allows us to continue going forward to fight the good fight for those who need God and not the fight within ourselves!

A couple supplemental readings worth mentioning:

Psalms 149:4

[4] For the LORD taketh pleasure in his people: he will beautify the meek with salvation.

1 Peter 3:3-4

[3] Whose adorning let it not be that outward adorning of plaiting the hair, and of wearing of gold, or of putting on of apparel;
[4] But let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price.

When we stop worrying about the condition of what we see in people and get down to the condition of their heart, we can really begin to execute the true mission of Christ: that the world through Him would be saved!