jesus doctrine

DEAR GOD: You Are My Salvation & Peace ~

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መዝሙር 23 - Psalms 23 - YouTube

Commentary on John 10:7-9 (KJV)

Introduction: In John 10:7-9, Jesus presents Himself as “the door of the sheep,” a powerful metaphor that speaks volumes about His role as the protector and savior of His followers. These verses emphasize the exclusivity of Jesus as the means of salvation and the abundant life He offers. Let’s delve into these profound words, exploring their historical context, theological significance, and their enduring relevance in today’s world.

Historical Overview: In ancient times, shepherds played a crucial role in agrarian societies. They were responsible for the safety and well-being of their flocks. At night, sheep were often kept in a pen or a fold, with a single entrance. The shepherd would lie across the entrance, literally becoming the door, to protect the sheep from predators and thieves. This imagery would have been immediately understood by Jesus’ audience, who were familiar with the pastoral life.

Verse 7: “Then said Jesus unto them again, Verily, verily, I say unto you, I am the door of the sheep.” Jesus declares Himself as the door, using the metaphor of a shepherd’s role as the gatekeeper of the sheepfold. By repeating “Verily, verily,” He emphasizes the importance and truth of His statement. This verse highlights the exclusivity of Jesus as the only way to enter the fold of God’s kingdom. Just as the sheep rely on the shepherd for protection and guidance, we rely on Jesus for spiritual security and direction.

Verse 8: “All that ever came before me are thieves and robbers: but the sheep did not hear them.” In this verse, Jesus contrasts Himself with false prophets and leaders who sought to lead God’s people astray. These “thieves and robbers” represent those who claimed to provide salvation but ultimately led to spiritual ruin. The true sheep, those who genuinely seek God, do not follow such deceitful voices. Reflective questions to ponder:

  • How can we discern the true voice of Jesus amidst the many voices in today’s world?
  • In what ways have false teachings impacted the faith community historically and in modern times?

Verse 9: “I am the door: by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture.” Jesus reiterates His role as the door and expands on the promise of salvation. Those who enter through Him will be saved, finding both security and sustenance. The image of going in and out and finding pasture speaks of the freedom, safety, and provision that come from being under Jesus’ care. This verse is a beautiful assurance of the abundant life Jesus offers to His followers.

Reflective Questions:

  • How can we live our lives in a way that reflects our trust in Jesus as the door to our salvation?
  • What steps can we take to ensure we are following the true voice of our Shepherd in today’s complex world?

Biblical References:

  • Psalm 23:1-3: “The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.”
  • John 14:6: “Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.”
  • Hebrews 13:20-21: “Now the God of peace, that brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant, Make you perfect in every good work to do his will, working in you that which is wellpleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ; to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.”

Prayer: Heavenly Father, we thank You for the gift of Your Son, Jesus, who is the door to our salvation. Help us to recognize and follow His voice amidst the distractions of this world. Grant us the wisdom to discern truth from falsehood and the courage to remain steadfast in our faith. May we always find our rest and provision in You, trusting in Your unfailing love and guidance. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Blessings for the Reader: May the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you always. May His voice guide you, His love envelop you, and His peace fill your heart. As you journey through life, may you continually find refuge and sustenance in Him. Blessings to you, now and forevermore. Amen.

 

DEAR GOD: Comfort Is Only Found In You~

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"The God of All Comfort" - April 28th, 2020 Live Stream Devotional ...

Let’s delve into the rich meaning of Philippians 4:19. This verse, penned by the apostle Paul, resonates across time and speaks to both the early Christians and us today, especially in these days which presents with chaos and turbulence throughout the world. We will find an amass amount of comfort knowing and believing in His Word, and His promises. When we focus on God’s great glory and love for us, it becomes a lot easier to navigate in a world of uncertainty – because the LORD is real and His love and mercy never waver. In a world of disappointments and harsh evil – the LIGHT of the LORD shines and brings elements of peace and certainty to our lives.

The Context:

Paul wrote these words while imprisoned, facing adversity and uncertainty. Despite his circumstances, he exudes joy and contentment. His confidence lies not in earthly abundance but in God’s unwavering provision. His countenance was always steady and confident in God’s love and provisions, even at the darkest moments in his life. He knew that the light and love of the LORD would bring him through everything he was going through. That no matter how bleak or hopeless the circumstances, he knew in his heart that the LORD would and could change the situation he was in by a wave of his hand and mercy. As it is proven and written so many times in the Holy Word of the LORD.

The Verse:

“And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:19, ESV)

What It Means to God’s Children:

  1. Divine Provision: Paul assures the Philippians that God will meet their needs. This extends beyond material necessities to spiritual guidance, comfort, and emotional sustenance.
  2. Generosity: The context reveals that the Philippians were generous in their giving. Paul’s confidence in God’s provision stems from their sacrificial hearts.

Relevance Today:

  1. Trust in God: Like the Philippians, we too will always face challenges. This verse reminds us to trust God’s faithfulness even when circumstances seem overwhelming and completely dreary. Trust in the LORD and He will always guide your path. (Proverbs 3:5-8)
  2. Contentment: Our needs may differ, but God’s promise remains. Contentment lies not in abundance but in knowing that God provides according to His riches. And all that He supplies and gives is according to His will and purpose for us in this lifetime.

Morals and Reflective Questions:

  • Generosity: How can we cultivate a spirit of generosity, knowing that God blesses those who give?
  • Priorities: Are we seeking God’s Kingdom first?
  • Belief: Are we trusting that our needs will follow?

Meditative Thoughts:

  • God’s Abundance: Picture His vast riches, flowing toward you.
  • Surrender: Release anxiety; God knows your needs intimately.

Supporting Scriptures:

  • Matthew 6:33: “But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.”
  • Psalm 23:1: “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.”

Closing Unified Prayer:

“Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for Your promise to provide. Help us trust You, knowing that our needs are met in completely in and through Christ. May we live generously and seek Your kingdom above all else, today and all the days of our lives, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

Final Moral Takeaway:

God’s provision transcends circumstances. Trust Him, live generously in His love, live by His commandments and doctrine as you go through this lifetime, honor Him and obey Him, and you will find contentment in His abundant grace all the days you remain here on earth. As you study His word and these verses, may they bring peace to you, and may you exalt and glorify Him daily…

All glory and honor and praise to You O’ LORD!

DEAR GOD: May My Fasting Bring Me CLoser To You~

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2019 prayer_and_fasting-PSD – Heartcry Chapel

Fasting and prayer are spiritual disciplines that have been practiced for centuries across various religious traditions. In the Christian faith, these practices are often observed together as a means to deepen one’s relationship with God, seek guidance, and express penitence.

Fasting, the voluntary abstinence from food or drink, is a physical expression of one’s spiritual desire for communion with God. It is an act of humility, acknowledging one’s dependence on God for sustenance. By setting aside the temporary comfort of food, believers can focus more intently on their spiritual nourishment through prayer and meditation on the Scriptures.

Prayer is the communication with God, where one can praise, confess, give thanks, and petition. It is a time to align one’s will with God’s, to seek forgiveness, and to intercede for others. Prayer can be a source of strength and comfort, especially during times of fasting when physical weakness reminds us of our spiritual need.

The combination of fasting and prayer can lead to a heightened sense of spiritual awareness. It can help believers to detach from worldly distractions and draw closer to God, seeking His will and guidance. The Bible offers several examples of individuals and communities who fasted and prayed, often during critical moments or decisions, showing their reliance on God’s direction and strength.

Biblical Support:

  • Matthew 6:16-18 – Jesus teaches about fasting, emphasizing that it should not be done for show, but rather in a way that is not obvious to others.
  • Acts 13:2-3 – The early church fasted and prayed before sending off Paul and Barnabas on their missionary journey.
  • James 5:13-16 – Believers are encouraged to pray in all circumstances, and the prayer of faith will heal the sick.

Fasting can also be giving up one’s indulgences for a while and concentrating on the LORD, fully and completely. It is the ability to focus in on the LORD with all of your given body, mind and soul…and presenting yourself wholly and humbly to the LORD. It is a representation of your faith and your love for the LORD, and consequently will be a vow of belief in Him and all He is.

When we turn in prayer to the One above and bring our meditations and heart to Him, He will surely hear from heaven, and will answer according to His time table, not ours!

“My Heavenly Father, I come before You in humility, seeking Your presence through fasting and prayer. May my spirit be nourished by Your Word and my heart aligned with Your will. Grant me the strength to pursue You wholeheartedly, and may my discipline be a testament to my utmost desire for closeness with You. Bless me with wisdom and clarity, and let my actions reflect Your love and grace. In Jesus’ precious name I pray, Amen. 🙏”

DEAR GOD: You Are My Umbrella & More~

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women, Blonde, Rain, Umbrella, Street, Long hair, Lenay Dunn HD ...

~Psalm 3:3~
 But You, O Lord, are a shield about me,
My glory, and the One who lifts my head.

So, the rain poured down from the Heavens and I reach for my umbrella – and it shields me from harsh elements- and I am protected!

LORD – You are my umbrella of fortune and blessings and I know You are with me in all kinds of weather. In fact, You control the weather patterns, and it “listens” to You!

When we are aligned in God’s word and pull away from the insignificance of the World, and all its ugly enticements – we are assured of rewards to come here and most especially in the eternity.

Some may say, “why can’t I indulge in some pleasurable things – if I’m good and do good things, what’s the big deal?”  Well, it is a big deal if you’re not adhering to His Word and are doing ungodly things that are not favorable in His sight. God doesn’t want His children to partake in insignificant things or indulge in idolatry. Idolatry is anything that takes you away from the LORD and His Word. No matter how small you may think it is, if it’s an abomination in God’s eyes, and not godly – then it isn’t as “small” as you think it is.

Idolatry is not acceptable in His eyes. This can run the gamut from addictions, possessions, materialistic items, anything that leads to the eviction of God in your life.

We need to concentrate on “living” but staying within the confines and parameters of being C child of Christ and living a life that suits Christians.

He is the provider for all our needs and His provisions are never ending, and His love is free flowing. Nothing and no one can compare to His magnificence, and His Omnipotence.

Do you feel God is your umbrella? Can you recall any time in your life where God protected you fully? Do you have idols in your life you need to be rid of?

“Father, thank You for Your continuous Presence in my life, may I always be in obedience to You and Your Word, may I never stray, and if I do – as I am human- please gently guide me back onto Your path of righteousness, as that is the only path I wish to walk upon, in Jesus’ name I thank You, Amen.”