God's Terms 10.24.08

Hello My Friend/Guest,

Today we are continuing our studies on the book of Luke, please read Chapters 8-9 in your Bible or Click Here to read them online. If the link does not work you can copy and paste this one to your browser: biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke%208-9&version=9

Today we will read about Jesus calming the storm; a woman healed from a blood disorder; other miracles; the apostles sent forth to teach the Gospel; 5000 fed; Peter's confession; and the transfiguration of Christ. Today's message focuses on the importance of realzing that we can not follow Jesus on our own terms and expect blessings upon our lives. It is not easy being a Christian in a world that is dead against living for Christ, but those who are true endure the strength to overcome an ungodly nation.

Many people claim to follow Jesus and even make it look like they do on the surface, but Jesus knows each and every persons heart. Jesus put some of these people to the test, "And it came to pass, that, as they went in the way, a certain man said unto him, Lord, I will follow thee whithersoever thou goest. And Jesus said unto him, Foxes have holes, and birds of the air have nests; but the Son of man hath not where to lay his head." (Luke 9:57-58). The foxes illustrate those who truly follow Jesus and the birds illustrate those who live in the world. What Jesus meant by this statement was that all who choose to follow Him will endure hardships and the world is not going to be quick to guarantee provisions. Jesus was also saying that He was not attached to earthly possessions, nor could His followers expect any earthly resources.

"And he said unto another, Follow me. But he said, Lord, suffer me first to go and bury my father. Jesus said unto him, Let the dead bury their dead: but go thou and preach the kingdom of God." (Luke 9:59-60). This person illustrates those who are called on by Jesus to follow Him, but wait until they believe it is the right time. We can not wait to follow Jesus when the time is right for us, the time is now and we must be willing to follow Him immediately. What Jesus meant by this statement was that those who live in the world are dead spiritually, but those who are called by Him to follow Him are to preach the Gospel.

"And another also said, Lord, I will follow thee; but let me first go bid them farewell, which are at home at my house. And Jesus said unto him, No man, having put his hand to the plough, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God." (Luke 9:59-62). This person illustrates those who are willing to follow Jesus, but only willing to join Him on their own terms. Serving Jesus requires a lifetime commitment, we can not choose to follow Him and then come and go as we please. What Jesus meant by this statement was that there can be no compromise in following Him, no one can live for Jesus and the world. Jesus was not then, nor is He now, in the midst of a membership drive, nor is He counting converts to prove His success. He's seeking true followers who are willing to put Him first above all things and not compromise their beliefs for the world.

Self-seekers and compromisers are often misled, believing there will be a more convenient time when they can choose to follow the Lord. Their excuses reveal that they have divided hearts. Some lack the devotion to Christ where, by comparison, all else in this world is of little importance. Others fail to put Christ first in their daily decisions and, yet, all who do will discover that the satisfaction of self-denial far exceeds fleeting earthly rewards. Each of us needs to consider whether there is someone in our life or something in our heart that is keeping us from giving Christ, His Word, and His will, first place in our lives.

The more carefully we read His Word and listen to His voice with submitted hearts the more all worldly ambitions and human standards fade into insignificance. Nothing else in this world has any lasting eternal value. "All the days of the afflicted are evil: but he that is of a merry heart hath a continual feast. Better is little with the fear of the LORD than great treasure and trouble therewith." (Proverbs 15:15-16).

Today's Prayer:
Dear Lord,
You know the longings of my heart. When I seek thrills and quick fixes to satisfy these needs I am eventually disappointed. Your supply of Living Water never runs dry and satisfies the inner desires of my heart because You are the only One who can meet my spiritual needs. Lord, as I come today dry and thirsty I look to You, for You satisfy the thirsty and fill the hungry with good things. In Jesus' name.....Amen.

Have a wonderful day and weekend!
God Bless,
Christina

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