Tuesday 31 July 2012

Why are we so apt to be captivated by the gewgaws of the world?


  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~

(Letters of John Newton)

Why are we so apt to be captivated by the gewgaws of the world--but because we are so faintly impressed with a real sense of the excellence of Jesus?

"Yes, He is altogether lovely! This is my Beloved--and this is my Friend!" Song of Songs 5:16

(Editor's note: A gewgaw is defined as a showy trifle; a pretty thing of little worth; a toy; a bauble; a splendid plaything, etc.)

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Daily Promises


Blue Letter Bible
July 31, 2012



                         For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek. (Romans 1:16)


As believers in Christ, we should not be ashamed of the Gospel because it is this very Gospel that has snatched us from the pit of hell. This wonderful news is open to anyone who will believe upon Jesus as Christ and Lord. Rejoice in this good news! Take heart in the wonderful mercies of the Lord! Be not ashamed for the sake of your life-giving faith! Proclaim the lovingkindness of the Lord unto all the nations with boldness that we who believe might fruitfully multiply the kingdom of heaven! Persevere in His strength, making disciples of all the world that others might share in the Gospel-joy that we, ourselves, have been granted to embrace!

C.H. Spurgeon Quotes

Our Converts Are Nothing

Posted: 31 Jul 2012 01:00 AM PDT


“Our converts are worth nothing. If they are converted by man they can be unconverted by man! If some charm or power of one preacher can bring them to Christ, some charm or power of another preacher can take them from Christ. True conversion is the work of the Holy Spirit and of the Holy Spirit alone!”

C.H. Spurgeon



Faith’s Checkbook July 31

Posted: 30 Jul 2012 05:00 PM PDT


An Appeal; Deliverance


And call upon me in the day of trouble: I will deliver thee, and thou shalt glorify me. (Psalm 50:15)

This is a promise indeed!

Here is an urgent occasion—”the day of trouble.” It is dark at noon on such a day, and every hour seems blacker than the one which came before it. Then is this promise in season: it is written for the cloudy day.

Here is condescending advice, “Call upon me.” We ought not to need the exhortation: it should be our constant habit all the day and every day. What a mercy to have liberty to call upon God! What wisdom to make good use of it! How foolish to go running about to men! The Lord invites us to lay our case before Him, and surely we will not hesitate to do so.

Here is reassuring encouragement: “I will deliver thee.” Whatever the trouble may be, the Lord makes no exceptions but promises full, sure, happy deliverance. He will Himself work out our deliverance by His own hand. We believe it, and the Lord honors faith.

Here is an ultimate result: “Thou shalt glorify me.” Ah, that we will do most abundantly. When He has delivered us we will loudly praise Him; and as He is sure to do it, let us begin to glorify Him at once.

C.H. Spurgeon

Monday 30 July 2012

Sovereign Grace Missionary BaptistChurch



Sovereign Grace Missionary BaptistChurch
1217 Dillon  Texarkana, Texas  75501
  July 29, 2012          
   Newsletter Number 377

Brother Randy Johnson, Pastor                     Brother Ronnie Henderson, Song Director
  Pastor E-Mail: pastor@sgmbaptist.com          Web Site: www.sgmbaptist.com

"Where The Truths Of God’s Word Have Been  Taught For More Than Fifty Years”






You Were Asked To  Pray For:



All of Our Military, Their Family’s & All  the Civilian Workers in The Middle East, Zee Mink Fuller and Family, Her son’s  Bryan Armstrong and Hunter Hackie, Daughter Shannon, and Brother Philip &  Sondra Thornsberry, Frank & Sonya Trusty,  Frank & Dawana Reigel,  Andrew Preston, Larry Mollette, Larry Mollette II & Family, Kerry  Pennington, Kim Poole, Danny & Nita Mollette, O. W. and Deloris Divas, Wendell Henderson, Judy  Dunn, Martha Gray, Joshua Kidd, Matthew Kidd, Dina McCray, Ronnie Henderson  Jr. & Son Kevin Henderson, Ricky Henderson and Family, Jacie Henderson,  Bro.  & Mrs. Hammond, Charles Hammond, Archie & Barbara Griffin, Bro. &  Sister Bob Keller, Kathy Rosinbaum, Mary Ramsey, Donna Johnson, Fay Johnson,  James and Luann Reynolds, Timothy and Nathan Fails, Jacob Ramsey, Jim &  Linda Meier, Letha Langford, Brother & Sister Kelley Hinson and Kelley  Lee, Jerry Hughes, Sister Nita Bookout,  Pastor G. L. Burr, Melody Carr,  Janie Capps, Imajo Tracy, Linda Hughes, Roy Lemmon, Lee Mollette’s  Daughter & Granddaughter Kristal, Dale Barnes – Kathy Johnson and  their mother, Tammy Hairston, Tommy Lee Walker, Pat and Waymon Abercrombie,  Barbara Brewer, Michelle Knowlton, Donna Jones,  Frank Roberts, Dale and  Linda Trahan, Linda Mollette, Brother Curtis Pugh, Brother Sullivan and the  work in Thailand,  Brother Raul and the work in Romania,  and Bro. Sergey Mochalov and the  Churches in Russia.






The Pastors  Corner:



The Original State and Fall of Man
Ecclesiastes  7:29 “Lo, this only have I found, that God hath made man upright; but  they have sought out many inventions.”





God had created man “upright” which  means – straight or just or as Vines described it as “right in  His eyes” – The only thing right in Gods eyes would be holy which  means God created man in holiness. God said after He finished creation on day  six “And God saw every thing that he had made, and, behold, it was  very good…”  Genesis 1:31 which means He was very pleased  with it and the only thing God can be pleased with is total perfection.  Therefore we must understand as Christians we are washed in the blood of  Christ continually making us completely holy in Gods sight. God said that man  was created in His image "So God created man in his own image, in the  image of God created he him; male and female created he them.” Genesis  1:27 and there is no “sinful” image of God. However since the  fall of Adam man has lost that holiness because holiness and sin do now  combine. However in Christ Jesus we gain back the holiness lost in Adam.  “And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness  and true holiness.” Ephesians 4:24 Paul said the  “image” has been renewed in Christ Jesus and that is back to the  “upright” state that was lost in Adam "And have put on the  new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created  him:" Colossians 3:10 as though we have never sinned a single sin;  ever. Oh! How truly blessed we  as Christians are.



It was not long after God had created man (the exact  time is unknown) that Adam and his wife Eve had sinned against God. Remember  our text Ecclesiastes 7:29 it went on to say: “… but they have  sought out many inventions.” While Adam and Eve were created holy and  blessed more than any of Gods other creations they sought out a way to defile  God and man has been doing it ever since and we as Christians also seek these  inventions. We will put more thought into inventions to build a way around  the scriptures than to just accept it. It is mans goal in life to justify sin  or to just belittle it to where it does not matter. There are two things so  many today attempts to do to justify sin, (1.) they belittle sin to where it  truly is not as bad, or (2.) they belittle our fear of God in order to sin  without fear. Adam failed God and the punishment was great (he brought death  to all mankind) and our sin is just as awful to God. God doesn’t want  us to sin and if we do it draws a divide between us and God. We must always  remember God hates sin and while He continually loves the elect He still  hates their sin. It was not o that Adam and Eve sinned and it is not ok if we  doe either; whether saved or not sin is sin.  






For Our Weekly  Meditation:



The  Sovereign Electing Grace of God



None of us have any right to God's mercy.



Election is an indisputable truth of Christianity,  and one full of the richest comfort to the child of God- one which is  intended to kindle in him perpetual flames of adoring gratitude.  It is a  truth which lays him low, and makes him feel that there is nothing in him,  and then raises him up and bids him, like a seraph, adore before the throne!



Distinguishing grace is a fact; prize this truth and  hold it firmly.   Thank God that you are made a partaker of his eternal love. 



The sovereign electing grace of God chooses us to  repentance, to faith, and afterwards to holiness of living, to Christian  service, to zeal, and to devotion.



Election should be to you savory meat such as  Isaac's soul loved; and as you feed upon it you will become like the three  holy children in Babylon, both fatter and fairer and more lovely than those  who have not received this precious truth.



By Charles Spurgeon from his  sermon, The Widow of Sarepta." 1 Kings 17:8, 9.






Notice:



The next church business meeting will be August 05  at 4:00



Don’t forget the Bible Conference is set for  September14 and 15 






A Thought For  Food:



David Dickson, when dying was asked what was the  principal subject on which his thoughts were engaged, and he answered,  "I am gathering up all my good works, and all my bad works, tying them  into one bundle, and throwing them all alike down at the foot of the cross,  and am resting alone upon the finished work of Jesus."

                                      ______________________________________________



Man's entire apostasy and death in sin, so that he  cannot save himself; and God's entire supremacy, so that He saves whom He  will; are doctrines exceedingly distasteful to human pride.

But they are Scriptural?

Why was one thief saved and the other lost?  "Even so Father for so it seemed good in Your sight."

(Mt. 11:25-27). God was not bound to save the one  thief, and He had power enough to have saved the other thief, and neither  thief could save himself.

What made the difference?

The Sovereign Grace of God!



By Horatius Bonar

C.H. Spurgeon Quotes

The Price He Paid

Posted: 30 Jul 2012 01:00 AM PDT


“Jesus never forgets the price He paid for the redemption of even one soul! I think I hear Him say, my Brothers and Sisters, ‘By My agony and bloody sweat, by My Cross and passion, by My death and burial, I will have him as My own, for I cannot have suffered all these things in vain.’”

C.H. Spurgeon


Faith’s Checkbook July 30

Posted: 29 Jul 2012 05:00 PM PDT


Promise of Future Meeting


I will see you again, and your heart shall rejoice. (John 16:22)

Surely He will come a second time, and then, when He sees us and we see Him, there will be rejoicings indeed. Oh, for that joyous return! But this promise is being daily fulfilled in another sense. Our gracious Lord has many “agains” in His dealings with us. He gave us pardon, and He sees us again and repeats the absolving word as fresh sins cause us grief. He has revealed to us our acceptance before God, and when our faith in that blessing grows a little dim, He comes to us again and again and says, “Peace be unto you,” and our hearts are glad.

Beloved, all our past mercies are tokens of future mercies. If Jesus has been with us, He will see us again. Look upon no former favor as a dead and buried thing, to be mourned over; but regard it as a seed sown, which will grow, and push its head up from the dust, and cry, “I will see you again.” Are the times dark because Jesus is not with us as He used to be? Let us pluck up courage; for He will not be long away. His feet are as those of a roe or young hart, and they will soon bring Him to us. Wherefore let us begin to be joyous, since He saith to us even now, “I will see you again.”

C.H. Spurgeon

No book is really worth reading


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(J.R. Miller, "Things That Endure")

"Avoid every kind of evil!" 1 Thessalonians 5:22     

          Much is said in commendation of books. But, as in other matters, there is need for wise discrimination in what one reads. Not all books are worth reading.

There are many which are utterly empty of anything that is noble or worthy. One might read them continually all one's life--and yet be no wiser and no better. A hundred of them do not contain a dozen sentences that it is worthwhile to keep in one's memory, or that can be of any help or cheer or strength in one's life.

Then, there are books which are most pernicious in their influence. There are all grades and degrees of evil in this class. Some of them carry a subtle poison in their atmosphere which is noxious to those who          breathe it. We need to keep most careful watch over our heart, so that nothing shall ever tarnish its purity. Any corrupt thought, dallied with even for a moment, leaves a stain upon the mind which may never be effaced.

If we would keep the tender joy of our heart experiences unbroken, we must hold rigid watch over our reading, conscientiously excluding not only whatever is obviously impure--but all in which lurks even a suggestion of evil.

A writer says: "Never read a book which is not worth reading, for some noble end, beyond the short-lived pleasure of a little excitement."

When we think of the influence which our reading has upon our lives, we see at once the importance of selecting only books that are worthwhile. At the best, none of us can read one book in a thousand of those which are within our reach. Surely then, this one book ought to be the best in all the thousand.

Every year, a flood of really worthless publications is poured over the country. People go into ecstasies over trivial works which please or excite them for a day--and are then old and forgotten; while books in every way admirable, are passed by unnoticed.

No book is really worth reading, which does not either impart valuable knowledge; or set before us some ideal of beauty, strength, or nobility of character.

There are enough great books to occupy us during all our short and busy years. If we are wise, we will resolutely avoid all but the richest and the best.

(Editor's note: Reading was the primary media in J.R. Miller's day. The above standards apply to all media today--TV, internet, etc.)

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Daily Promises


Blue Letter Bible
July 30, 2012


                         And our hope of you [is] stedfast, knowing, that as ye are partakers of the sufferings, so [shall ye be] also of the consolation. (2 Corinthians 1:7)


Christ reigns even now on His heavenly throne, yet the earth is filled with evil men. The adopted brothers and sisters of Christ reign even now by His side, yet their lives are of suffering. How can this be? It is the mystery of the cross of Christ Jesus! Through our weakness, we are strong. Through death, we have life. Through suffering, we are become the victors. And through persecution, we are blessed. Therefore, Christ tells us, rejoice in such troubles till the heavenly consummation, for great will be our apparent reward in that day. So do not fret, O believer, but trust that your suffering will produce hope. Hope in Christ. Hope in Heaven.

Sunday 29 July 2012

C.H. Spurgeon Quotes


Unwashed

Posted: 29 Jul 2012 01:00 AM PDT


“You, also, must often have heard of the death of friends—and some day people will tell the survivors that you, too, are gone. With unremitted sin upon you, you know where you will go, do you not? I need not tell you where they are driven whose sin has never been forgiven—and whose sin never will be forgiven—as they have passed out of this world unwashed in the precious blood of Jesus!”

C.H. Spurgeon



Faith’s Checkbook July 29

Posted: 28 Jul 2012 05:00 PM PDT


He Routs Our Enemy


He hath cast out thine enemy. (Zephaniah 3:15)

What a casting out was that! Satan has lost his throne in our nature even as he lost his seat in heaven. Our Lord Jesus has destroyed the enemy’s reigning power over us. He may worry us, but he cannot claim us as his own. His bonds are no longer upon our spirits: the Son has made us free, and we are free indeed.

Still is the archenemy the accuser of the brethren; but even from this position our Lord has driven him. Our Advocate silences our accuser. The Lord rebukes our enemies and pleads the causes of our soul, so that no harm comes of all the devil’s revilings.

As a tempter, the evil spirit still assails us and insinuates himself into our minds; but thence also is he cast out as to his former preeminence. He wriggles about like a serpent, but he cannot rule like a sovereign. He hurls in blasphemous thoughts when he has opportunity; but what a relief it is when he is told to be quiet and is made to slink off like a whipped cur! Lord, do this for any who are at this time worried and wearied by his barkings. Cast out their enemy, and be Thou glorious in their eyes. Thou hast cast him down; Lord, cast him out. Oh, that Thou wouldst banish him from the world!

C.H. Spurgeon

A race to the sepulcher!

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(Thomas Sherman, "Divine Breathings; Or, a Pious Soul Thirsting after Christ")

"What is your life? You are a vapor that appears for a little while--and then vanishes!" James 4:14

To speak the truth, our life is but a lingering death!

The poet being asked what he did; answered insightfully, "I am dying, little by little!"

We do but begin to live indeed--when we begin to live to God; our life before, is but a race to the sepulcher! But when we live to God--then we are on our way to eternity!

Our life contains a thousand springs,
And dies, if one goes wrong!
Strange! that a harp of a thousand strings,
Should keep in tune, so long!

"What is your life? You are a vapor that appears for a little while--and then vanishes!" James 4:14

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Daily Promises


Blue Letter Bible
July 29, 2012


                         This then is the message which we have heard of him, and declare unto you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all. (1 John 1:5)


Here lies the believer's assurance that the light of God will permeate even this dark world. Even more, God is that very light! The believer ought hold this truth tightly: despite the most tumultuous circumstance, not all is dark, lost, or evil!

Saturday 28 July 2012


C.H. Spurgeon Quotes


Benefits From Affliction

Posted: 28 Jul 2012 01:00 AM PDT


“Afflictions also are often to the benefit of Believers in leading them to search for sin. Our trials should be search warrants, sent to us from God that we may search and find out the secret evil that is within us—the offense that we have hidden, the lie that is in our right hand.”

C.H. Spurgeon




Faith’s Checkbook July 28

Posted: 27 Jul 2012 05:00 PM PDT


Bow Down; Be Lifted Up



Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time. (1 Peter 5:6)

This is tantamount to a promise: if we will bow down, the Lord will lift us up. Humility leads to honor; submission is the way to exaltation. That same hand of God which presses us down is waiting to raise us up when we are prepared to bear the blessing. We stoop to conquer. Many cringe before men and yet miss the patronage they crave; but he that humbles himself under the hand of God shall not fail to be enriched, uplifted, sustained, and comforted by the ever-gracious One. It is a habit of Jehovah to cast down the proud and lift up the lowly.

Yet there is a time for the Lord’s working. We ought now to humble ourselves, even at this present moment; and we are bound to keep on doing so whether the Lord lays His afflicting hand upon us or not. When the Lord smites, it is our special duty to accept the chastisement with profound submission. But as for the Lord’s exaltation of us, that can only come “in due time,” and God is the best judge of that day and hour. Do we cry out impatiently for the blessing? Would we wish for untimely honor? What are we at? Surely we are not truly humbled, or we should wait with quiet submission. So let us do.

C.H. Spurgeon

Daily Promises


Blue Letter Bible
July 28, 2012


                         O love the LORD, all ye his saints: [for] the LORD preserveth the faithful, and plentifully rewardeth the proud doer. (Psalms 31:23)


His strength is beyond imagining and with it He promises to preserve His children ever in their faith! None may snatch you from His hand, O child of the Lamb, for He is adamant: you are His and His alone! Love Him, therefore, and follow Him all your days!

Friday 27 July 2012

The Holy Spirit Convicting


“If you are not yet saved, I pray that you may be made to know that you are not. It is only God’s gracious Spirit who can convict a man who thought all was well with him, that he is lost. Only the Holy Spirit can prove to him that he is not a Christian, though he thinks he is one! And when he is made to realize this, he will probably soon be transformed into that which he now fancies that he is—a true child of the living God!”
C.H. Spurgeon

Daily Promises


Blue Letter Bible
July 27, 2012



                         When Christ, [who is] our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with him in glory.                         (Colossians 3:4)


Our Lord, Jesus Christ, who is the Lamb of God and our Bridegroom shall return! Our true life is hidden in Him and when He appears in clouds of glory, then shall our own true lives be made apparent in Him. His life of obedience is ours (cf. Romans 5:19 and Hebrews 5:8). His death and suffering is ours. So too is His resurrection to new life. And even so, His revelation in robes of splendour at the final day shall be shared with every one of His saints. So put to death the earthly things until His coming and you shall be crowned in His glory.

Thursday 26 July 2012

The goal of living in this world

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(J.R. Miller, "Things That Endure")

The goal of living in this world, is ever to grow into more and more radiant and lovely Christ-like character--whatever our conditions or experiences may be.

We cannot escape temptations--but we are so to meet them and pass through them, as not to be hurt by them--to come out of them with new strength and new radiancy of soul.

We cannot escape trials and difficulties--but we are to live victoriously, never defeated, always          overcoming.

We cannot find a path in which no sorrow shall come into our lives--but we are to live through the experience of sorrow, without being hurt by it.

Many people receive harm from the       fires which pass over them. Many fall in temptation and lie in dust and defeat, not rising again. Many are soured and embittered by the difficulties, the irritations, the frictions, the cares of life. But the problem of Christian living, is to keep a sweet Christ-like spirit amid all that          might embitter us--to pass through the fires, and not have the flames kindle upon us.

We live in the midst of the countless dangers through which we must pass in this world. Danger lurks in every shadow, and hides in every patch of sunshine. There are tempters all around us. Only by committing our lives day by day into the hands of Christ, can we be kept in safety amid the perils of this world. He is able to keep us from falling, to guard us from stumbling, and to set us before His presence without blemish, in exceeding joy!

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Daily Promises


Blue Letter Bible
July 26, 2012



                         For the LORD taketh pleasure in his people: he will beautify the meek with salvation.                         (Psalms 149:4)


My Prayer: Thank You, O God that You delight in us, Your people. Thank You for Your reign of love. Thank You for taking pleasure in Your people, for giving us hearts to serve, for prospering us by Your Spirit, for communing with us by Your means of grace, and for communicating to us Your favour and good pleasure. Thank You for preparing us for Your future glory!

Wednesday 25 July 2012

Countless little blemishes and flaws

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(J.R. Miller, "Things That Endure")

"Little things make perfection." In nothing is this more true, than in character and conduct. There are many people who in great matters of principle, and in the cardinal virtues--are without fault; yet the luster of whose life is dimmed, by their countless little blemishes and flaws.

One man who is upright and steadfast, with the firmness of a rock--is hard to live with at home, because of his irritability or his despotic disposition.

Another is full of great benevolent and philanthropic schemes, doing good in many ways--yet those who know him most intimately, discover in him an almost utter lack of the sweet graces and amenities, which are the true adornment of a Christlike life.

It is in the little things, that most of our failures are made. Little faults thoroughly penetrate our characters.

Little sins ruin many a life.

There is a species of little white ants in Africa, which work desolation wherever they go. One may leave his chair at night and go to bed. In the morning the chair is there, apparently in good condition--but let him sit down on it, and it falls with him, in a heap on the floor! During the night, the white ants have eaten the inside out of the legs, seat and frame. Houses are in like manner destroyed. The timbers are bored through and through--until one day the building tumbles to the ground!

Just so, there are human lives which seem strong and right to men's eyes--but countless infinitesimal faults and sins, eat away their substance, until they fall at last in hopeless ruin!

There is no doubt that the largest part of the pain and heartache endured in the world, is caused by multitudinous little failures in lovingness--by little, needless hurts and unkindnesses--rather than by life's great and conspicuous sorrows.

It is not enough, therefore, that we seek to be true, honest and just, in all our life. We should learn all the lessons of love, so that in every disposition and temper and word, in every shade of expression--we shall be Christlike.

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Daily Promises


Blue Letter Bible
July 25, 2012



                         [When] the poor and needy seek water, and [there is] none, [and] their tongue faileth for thirst, I the LORD will hear them, I the God of Israel will not forsake them. (Isaiah 41:17)


Ever is the Lord gracious and ever does He shower mercy unfettered upon the objects of His affection. Because we know that God loves us, we may take pleasure in the great knowledge that He will surely stand by us in our hour of need. Ever is the Lord the provider of our necessities and ever will He quench our thirst with the welcome vials of living water—even the life of Christ.

Tuesday 24 July 2012

Daily Promises


Blue Letter Bible
July 24, 2012


                         For thou, Lord, [art] good, and ready to forgive; and plenteous in mercy unto all them that call upon thee. (Psalms 86:5)


The Lord is full of mercy and willing to forgive us! He never rejects us when we ask for His forgiveness. This outpouring of mercy and love should make us desire to follow Him more faithfully.

My Prayer: Jesus, I do not deserve Your love or mercy, but I praise and thank You for them both! Thank You for hearing us when we call to You.

Monday 23 July 2012

Chicken--or eagle?

  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~



(J.R. Miller, "Things That Endure")

A man had an eagle which had grown up among the barnyard hens. For a time the bird seemed content to be only a chicken. But one day it looked up into the sky, and something within the eagle, sleeping until now, awoke. Flapping its wings, it soared away toward the sun and never returned.

Just so, too many Christians, meant for the eagle-life--content themselves with a barnyard existence. Now and then they feel something stirring within them--but they are too indolent to make the effort necessary to take their place in the upper air and among the mountain crags. So they spend all their days down in the dust, among earthly things, never waking up to their God-given potentials.

"Since, then, you have been raised with Christ--set your hearts on things above, where Christ is seated at    the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above--not on earthly things!" Colossians 3:1-2

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Daily Promises

Blue Letter Bible
July 23, 2012




                         Now unto him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present [you] faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy, To the only wise God our Saviour, [be] glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and ever. Amen. (Jude 1:24-25)


By the grace and mercy of the Father, the believer is kept from stumbling to destruction during the long journey of life and will be presented blameless and pure before the throne of God. As followers of Christ, we must keep ourselves in the love of God as we anxiously wait for the return of the Messiah. During this time of waiting, we are promised that God will keep us in His hands and we will not stumble away from His great purpose. Instead, nothing will snatch us away (John 10:29) and we will reside with Him for eternity!

Sunday 22 July 2012



Sovereign Grace Missionary BaptistChurch
1217 Dillon  Texarkana, Texas  75501
  July 22, 2012          
   Newsletter Number 376

Brother Randy Johnson, Pastor                     Brother Ronnie Henderson, Song Director
  Pastor E-Mail: pastor@sgmbaptist.com          Web Site: www.sgmbaptist.com

"Where The Truths Of God’s Word Have Been  Taught For More Than Fifty Years”






You Were Asked To  Pray For:



All of Our Military, Their Family’s & All  the Civilian Workers in The Middle East, Zee Mink Fuller and Family, Her son’s  Bryan Armstrong and Hunter Hackie, Daughter Shannon, and Brother Philip &  Sondra Thornsberry, Frank & Sonya Trusty,  Frank & Dawana Reigel,  Andrew Preston, Larry Mollette, Larry Mollette II & Family, Kerry  Pennington, Kim Poole, Danny & Nita Mollette, Wendell Henderson, Judy  Dunn, Martha Gray, Joshua Kidd, Matthew Kidd, Dina McCray, Ronnie Henderson  Jr. & Son Kevin Henderson, Ricky Henderson and Family, Jacie Henderson,  Bro.  & Mrs. Hammond, Charles Hammond, Archie & Barbara Griffin, Bro. &  Sister Bob Keller, Kathy Rosinbaum, Mary Ramsey, Donna Johnson, Fay Johnson,  James and Luann Reynolds, Timothy and Nathan Fails, Jacob Ramsey, Jim &  Linda Meier, Letha Langford, Brother & Sister Kelley Hinson and Kelley  Lee, Jerry Hughes, Sister Nita Bookout,  Pastor G. L. Burr, Melody Carr,  Janie Capps, Imajo Tracy, Linda Hughes, Roy Lemmon, Lee Mollette’s  Daughter & Granddaughter Kristal, Dale Barnes – Kathy Johnson and  their mother, Tammy Hairston, Tommy Lee Walker, Pat and Waymon Abercrombie,  Barbara Brewer, Michelle Knowlton, Donna Jones,  Frank Roberts, Dina Thomas,  Dale and Linda Trahan, Linda Mollette, Brother Curtis Pugh, Brother Sullivan  and the work in Thailand,  Brother Raul and the work in Romania,  and Bro. Sergey Mochalov and the  Churches in Russia.






The Pastors  Corner:



The  Essential Elements of Human Nature



When we think of the Elements of Human Nature there  are two schools of thought among the Baptist; (1.) The Trichotomous Theory  and (2.) The Dichotomous Theory. The difference between the two are that  “tri” means three and “di” means two or man has a  body, soul, and a spirit; or man has a body and a soul and the spirit is the  same as the soul. I am a firm believer in the Trichotomous Theory that man  has three elements and that would be body, soul, and a spirit. Now I believe  the scripture clearly proves that man is a Trichotomy; 1 Thessalonians 5:23  “And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God your  whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless  unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.” I also believe this because  man was made in Gods image Genesis 1:26 “And God said, Let us make  man in our image, after our likeness…” notice the  “us” and “our” speaking of the trinity of God. If man  was made in Gods image or the image of the trinity then he must have been a  Trichotomous being. Now we are going to separate the soul and spirit; when  God made man from the dust of the ground he was simply a lifeless molded hunk  of dirt, however it was when God breathed the breath of life into man he  (man) became a “living soul” Genesis 2:7 "And the LORD God  formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the  breath of life; and man became a living soul." God gave man life  or as we know it a soul and this soul cannot die but will live eternally  either in hell or heaven. Matthew 10:28 “And fear not them which kill  the body, but are not able to kill the soul: but rather fear him which  is able to destroy both soul and body in hell.” The question here must  be; if the soul cannot die then what died about man in the fall? It must have  been the “spirit”. The spirit is mentioned many times over in the  scriptures in relation to death by sin and quickening by the Holy Spirit.  Ephesians 2:1 "And you hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses  and sins;" it is also the spirit which Gods Holy Spirit works Romans  8:16 “The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are  the children of God:” the Holy Spirit does not work in the lost because  their spirit is dead (corpse dead) to God in other words God does not work  inside or in the heart of a lost or dead man. This also makes sense when we  die because before the second coming and the glorification of our bodies we  stand before God as spirits with souls. Now there are some that say to take 1  Thessalonians 5:23 literally that man is a Trichotomy being means man must  have several elements because of Matthew 22:37 “Jesus said unto him,  Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul,  and with all thy mind.” So here the word “mind” is  added to make a fourth but in right thinking the mind would not be considered  an Element of Human Nature because it is part of the body when the soul and  spirit are separate elements. Or n the Christian it could mean their thinking  which would include their spirit or what the scriptures calls the heart of a  Christian. While the Lord has many names for the spirit (heart, inner man,  and etc.) He never (I believe) combines the soul and the sprit as the same  element.



While there are some that may disagree with me on  this subject as well as others, I always must follow the scriptures as I see  the Holy Spirit teaching me in my spirit. And the mind of my spirit tells me  that man is a Trichotomous being.      






For Our Weekly  Meditation:



Hell  is full of the Divine holiness!



Hell is full of the Divine holiness; holiness in the  manifestation of justice; holiness in its most glorious exercise.



How fearfully are the lost now learning this truth!



Think it not a trifling matter, unconverted reader,  to look into the bottomless pit, and to know that there is but a step and you  are there! You walk to the end of the treacherous plank, and you are gone!



O solemn thought! but one step between you and the  quenchless flame! but one step between you and endless torment!



Throughout eternity the lost soul will be testifying  to this truth: "God is holy; I was a sinner; I rejected His salvation, I  turned my back upon His gospel, I despised His Son, I hated God Himself, I  lived in my sins, I loved my sins, I died in my sins, and now I am lost! to  all eternity lost! And God is righteous in my condemnation!"



By Octavius Winslow, from his  "Holiness, the Fruit of the Chastening of Love"






Notice:



The church will be observing the Lords Supper this  morning at the conclusion of the services.



The next church business meeting will be August 05  at 4:00








"PEACE!  PEACE!"



Man is from his birth a degenerate being, blind and  naked, alienated from the life of God, through the ignorance that is in him,  and a willing servant of sin.



He neither knows Christ, nor feels his need of him.



He cries, "Peace! Peace!" to himself and  to others, "when there is no peace."



Erroneous ideas of God and of himself lull him into  carnal security.



By Friedrich Wilhelm Krummacher,  from his "Elijah the Tishbite"


Our conception of Christlikeness


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(J.R. Miller, "Things That Endure")

"That the life of Jesus may be manifested in our body." 2 Corinthians 4:10

Many 'lives of Christ' have been written--but in every Christian life, there should be a new one published. It is these lives which are needed: written not in handsomely bound volumes, with fine paper and gilt edges, and with attractive illustrations--but in men's daily lives.

It is important that we should understand how we are to manifest the life of Jesus in our own life. It is not enough to talk about Him. There are those who with silver tongue can speak of Jesus eloquently and winsomely--of whom it cannot be said, even in widest charity, that Jesus' life is relived in them.

We more gospels in the lives of Christians--others need to see something of Christ in our own life.

What was this life of Jesus, which is to be repeated in every Christian life? Its great central characteristic was love--love full of compassion--love serving even to the lowliest degree and at greatest cost--love which was patient, forgiving, thoughtful, gentle--love unto the uttermost, which went to a cross to save sinners!

When we think of being like Christ--we are apt to gather out a few gentle qualities, and let these make up our conception of Christlikeness. True, He was a kindly man, a patient, quiet man; He was thoughtful, compassionate, unselfish, loving. But we must not forget that the cross is the truest symbol of the life of Jesus.

An artist was trying to improve on a dead mother's portrait. He wanted to take out the lines in her face. But the woman's son said it would not be a true portrait of his mother, if the lines were effaced. They told the story of the love, serving, and sacrifice--which made her what she was. The lines were themselves, the truest features in the whole portrait.

Just so, no picture of Jesus is true, which leaves out the marks of love's cost--the print of the nails, the memorials of His suffering.

It is not enough that we point others to a historic cross standing on Calvary, far back in the centuries; they must see the cross in our own life. When we speak to our neighbors of the pity of Jesus, His eager desire to save the lost, His giving of His life as a ransom--they must see all this in us. This is the manifesting of Jesus, for which we are sent into the world.

Jesus must enter our hearts, and live out His own blessed life in us.

"Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in His steps." 1 Peter 2:21

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Daily Promises

Blue Letter Bible
July 22, 2012




                         The LORD will not suffer the soul of the righteous to famish: but he casteth away the substance of the wicked. (Proverbs 10:3)


Take confidence in this, dear believer: in the very suffering of the righteous lies the mystery of gospel victory. Sure enough, Christ's church is sore oppressed upon this earth. Just as even He was—for a servant is not greater than his master. By His righteous suffering, our eternal victory was bought and by our suffering for righteousness's sake, we glory in that same victory! Though in our days upon this earth, we may indeed perish from starvation, that is not an end which we should fear. We ought look forward to the heavenly consummation of our lives—when at long last we will be truly free from famishment. When at long last we will no longer hold to the promises of unshakable victory by faith alone, but will apprehend such by unfettered sight! O come Lord Jesus, come!

Saturday 21 July 2012

Oh, the comfort


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(Mary Winslow)

"Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need!" Hebrews 4:16

Oh, the comfort, the inexpressible comfort of the throne of grace! It is the only verdant, refreshing spot, in this earth's wide wilderness.   

To have the sensible presence of God, the heart of a loving Father to confide in, who is able to do all and more than we require; to have Him always near, His hand ever stretched out to us--oh, the comfort!

This is my sweetest spot and chief comfort in this polluted world, where I carry all my cares and troubles, and am ever sure to receive a welcome in the face of a reconciled Father.   

Oh, the loving heart of Christ! Although He knows our ten thousand infirmities, He does not turn a deaf ear to our poor supplications--but with His own blood, blots out all their imperfections!


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Daily Promises


Blue Letter Bible
July 21, 2012



                         The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.                         (2 Peter 3:9)


Though we yearn greatly for the return of our King, there are still souls to be won. We can take heart in the love of our Father that all of Christ's sheep will be gathered before that final trump. None of our yet-saved brothers will perish. And this is the purpose for which Christ delays his coming.

Friday 20 July 2012

One truth, brought home to the soul by the Holy Spirit


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(James Smith, "Christ Exalted, Saints Comforted, and Sinners Directed" 1855)

We do believe the truths of God's Word--but we need to make them bear more upon our experience        and practice. Our religion is too much in the head--and too little in the heart. Truth rather floats in the understanding--than sinks down into the soul. Our memory lets it slip--and nothing but frequent meditation on these things, will cause us to profit by them. The truths of God's Word are calculated and intended to benefit the Lord's people--but unless we exercise our minds upon them--we shall not be benefited by them.

One truth, brought home to the soul by the Holy Spirit, and digested by meditation--does us more good than volumes which just pass through the mind! We ought, therefore, to pray more over what we read--and look to the Holy Spirit, beseeching Him to unfold and apply the truth to us!

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Daily Promises


Blue Letter Bible
July 20, 2012



                         So foolish [was] I, and ignorant: I was [as] a beast before thee. Nevertheless I [am] continually with thee: thou hast holden [me] by my right hand. Thou shalt guide me with thy counsel, and afterward receive me [to] glory.                         (Psalms 73:22-24)


As Christians, we still sin and act foolishly, but God continues to be with us and guide us onto the right path. After our life is through, He takes us to heaven to live eternally with Him! O, what great grace we have been given!

Thursday 19 July 2012

The child of Satan!

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(James Smith, "The Love of Christ! The Fullness, Freeness, and Immutability of the Savior's Grace Displayed!")

"For all who are led by the Spirit of God--are children of God!" Romans 8:14

If we are sons of God--we shall be led by the Spirit of God. And if we are led by the Spirit of God--we shall be led in the paths of righteousness and holiness!

The sons of God do not, cannot--love sin, live in sin, or make light of sin! He who loves and lives in sin--is the child of Satan! "You are of your father the Devil, and you want to carry out your father's desires!" John 8:44

The child will resemble its parent, and all God's children resemble Him--in His hatred to sin, and love to holiness. Let us not, therefore, imagine that we are the Lord's--if we live as the world lives . . .
  in the lusts of the flesh,
  in the lust of the eye,
  and in the pride of life!

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Morning and Evening


Charles H. Spurgeon
July 19, 2012


Morning Reading

                         The LORD our God hath shewed us his glory.

—Deuteronomy 5:24


God’s great design in all His works is the manifestation of His own glory. Any aim less than this were unworthy of Himself. But how shall the glory of God be manifested to such fallen creatures as we are? Man’s eye is not single, he has ever a side glance towards his own honour, has too high an estimate of his own powers, and so is not qualified to behold the glory of the Lord. It is clear, then, that self must stand out of the way, that there may be room for God to be exalted; and this is the reason why He bringeth His people ofttimes into straits and difficulties, that, being made conscious of their own folly and weakness, they may be fitted to behold the majesty of God when He comes forth to work their deliverance. He whose life is one even and smooth path, will see but little of the glory of the Lord, for he has few occasions of self‐emptying, and hence, but little fitness for being filled with the revelation of God. They who navigate little streams and shallow creeks, know but little of the God of tempests; but they who “do business in great waters,” these see His “wonders in the deep.” Among the huge Atlantic‐waves of bereavement, poverty, temptation, and reproach, we learn the power of Jehovah, because we feel the littleness of man. Thank God, then, if you have been led by a rough road: it is this which has given you your experience of God’s greatness and lovingkindness. Your troubles have enriched you with a wealth of knowledge to be gained by no other means: your trials have been the cleft of the rock in which Jehovah has set you, as He did His servant Moses, that you might behold His glory as it passed by. Praise God that you have not been left to the darkness and ignorance which continued prosperity might have involved, but that in the great fight of affliction, you have been capacitated for the outshinings of His glory in His wonderful dealings with you.

Evening Reading

                         A bruised reed shall he not break, and smoking flax shall he not quench.

—Matthew 12:20


What is weaker than the bruised reed or the smoking flax? A reed that groweth in the fen or marsh, let but the wild duck light upon it, and it snaps; let but the foot of man brush against it, and it is bruised and broken; every wind that flits across the river moves it to and fro. You can conceive of nothing more frail or brittle, or whose existence is more in jeopardy, than a bruised reed. Then look at the smoking flax—what is it? It has a spark within it, it is true, but it is almost smothered; an infant’s breath might blow it out; nothing has a more precarious existence than its flame. Weak things are here described, yet Jesus says of them, “The smoking flax I will not quench; the bruised reed I will not break.” Some of God’s children are made strong to do mighty works for Him; God has His Samsons here and there who can pull up Gaza’s gates, and carry them to the top of the hill; He has a few mighties who are lion‐like men, but the majority of His people are a timid, trembling race. They are like starlings, frightened at every passer by; a little fearful flock. If temptation comes, they are taken like birds in a snare; if trial threatens, they are ready to faint; their frail skiff is tossed up and down by every wave, they are drifted along like a sea bird on the crest of the billows—weak things, without strength, without wisdom, without foresight. Yet, weak as they are, and because they are so weak, they have this promise made specially to them. Herein is grace and graciousness! Herein is love and lovingkindness! How it opens to us the compassion of Jesus—so gentle, tender, considerate! We need never shrink back from His touch. We need never fear a harsh word from Him; though He might well chide us for our weakness, He rebuketh not. Bruised reeds shall have no blows from Him, and the smoking flax no damping frowns.

Daily Promises


Blue Letter Bible
July 19, 2012



                         And if ye [be] Christ's, then are ye Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise.                         (Galatians 3:29)


Whether we are Jew or Gentile, enslaved or free, male or female, so long as we are Christians then we are of Abraham's seed which God so long ago promised. So long as we find our identity in Christ, the True Seed of promise, we are the spiritual descendents of Abraham.

Wednesday 18 July 2012

He never takes His eyes off them!


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(James Smith, "The Love of Christ! The Fullness, Freeness, and Immutability of the Savior's Grace Displayed!")

"I am the Good Shepherd; I know My sheep, and My sheep know Me. I lay down My life for My sheep!" John 10:14-15

Jesus is the loving Shepherd of His chosen flock. He knows His sheep--and loves them too. He knows . . .
  their names,      
  their persons,
  their abodes,
  their needs,      
  their enemies,
  and their desires.
Their names are engraved on His heart, and on the palms of His hands. He came into the world that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly. He gave His life as a ransom price for them. He says, "I lay down My life for My sheep."

He gathers them by His Gospel and Spirit--and feeds and enfolds them in little flocks below. He gathers        the lambs with His arm and carries them in His bosom, and gently eads those that are with young. He feeds them in green pastures, and causes them to lie down beside the still waters. He protects them from the roaring lion, the raging bear, and the devouring wolf! He says, "I give them eternal life, and they will never perish--ever! No one will snatch them out of My hand!"

Jesus . . .
restores them when they wander;      
heals them when they are sick;
cleanses them when they are filthy;      
changes their pasture whenever they need it;
watches over them every moment; and      
guards them day and night, so that no one may harm them.       

He leads them--and they follow Him . . .
  knowing His voice,
  loving His person, and
  obeying His commands.      

He is now engaged in preparing pasture for them above--where the wicked cease from troubling, and where the weary shall forever rest! He will come again and receive them unto Himself, that where He is--His sheep may be also.

He loves them too well to forget them, and is too  concerned for them to neglect them. He never takes His eyes off them! This tender Shepherd listens to the bleating of the feeblest of His lambs--and sympathizes with the weakest of His flock. He has promised to feed them, and lead them to fountains of living waters--and to cause sorrow and sighing to flee away forever. His presence shall be with them, when they pass through the dark valley of the Shadow of Death, and His rod and His crook shall comfort them.

His strength shall be made perfect in the weakness of His lambs,
His wisdom shall shine in the way He conducts them, and       
His love will be displayed in every part of His conduct towards them!

Lambs of Jesus! Listen to your Shepherd's voice, keep close to your Shepherd's side, and aim to honor your dear Shepherd's name!

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Daily Promises


Blue Letter Bible
July 18, 2012


                         For the LORD [is] good; his mercy [is] everlasting; and his truth [endureth] to all generations. (Psalms 100:5)


Never need the child of God fear the failure of the heavenly promise for the Lord is unto everlasting. He is. And was. And ever will be. And He is faithful! Faithful to the fulfilment of every good thing! Faithful to His eternal promise of the redemption, justification, sanctification, and glorification of His chosen people! Take heart and enjoy well the Sabbath rest bought us by Christ!

Wilderness Communion

Wednesday, July 18, 2012

Faith's Check Book, Daily Entry

C. H. Spurgeon


July 18



I will allure her, and bring her into the wilderness, and speak comfortably unto her. (Hosea 2:14)

The goodness of God sees us allured by sin, and it resolves to try upon us the more powerful allurements of love. Do we not remember when the Lover of our souls first cast a spell upon us and charmed us away from the fascinations of the world! He will do this again and again whenever He sees us likely to be ensnared by evil.
He promises to draw us apart, for there He can best deal with us, and this separated place is not to be a paradise, but a wilderness, since in such a place there will be nothing to take of our attention from our God. In the deserts of affliction the presence of the Lord becomes everything to us, and we prize His company beyond any value which we set upon it when we sat under our own vine and fig tree in the society of our fellows. Solitude and affliction bring more to themselves and to their heavenly Father than any other means.
When thus allured and secluded the Lord has choice things to say to us for our comfort. He "speaks to our heart," as the original has it. Oh, that at this we may have this promise explained in our experience! Allured by love, separated by trial, and comforted by the Spirit of truth, may we know the Lord and sing for joy!

Tuesday 17 July 2012

Jesus does not require anything more


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(J.R. Miller, "Intimate Letters on Personal Problems" 1914)

Jesus does not require anything more, than a child-like trust in Him as Savior, Master and Friend--and the devotion of the life to Him.

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Daily Promises


Blue Letter Bible
July 17, 2012


                         [He is] near that justifieth me; who will contend with me? let us stand together: who [is] mine adversary? let him come near to me. (Isaiah 50:8)


Who can stand before the might of the Lion of the Tribe of Judah? None. Who can thwart the plans of the very Creator of the Heavens? None. And who could steal a single child from the hand of the conquering Lamb Himself? Why none at all! There is no foe so great or force so terrifying as to hold any sway over the Son of God! Take comfort in the strength of His arm and know to a certainty that if He is for you, then, truly, none can be against you (cf. Romans 8:31).

Monday 16 July 2012

The hand of God is in every trial, trouble, and disappointment

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(James Smith)

Your trials, though many, painful, and tedious--are but proofs of your heavenly Father's love! They are sent in mercy--to convince you that this poor world is not your rest.         
Your Father's wisdom chose them,
His love sent them, and      
His mercy will sanctify them to you!

Tried believer--are you looking to Jesus? He can hush the storm, and still the tempest. He is always near in trouble. Is your eye fixed upon Him? Does your heart repose on His tender love and faithful Word?

Do you recognize your heavenly Father's hand in your trials? His hand is in them, whether you see it or not. He sends, bounds, and removes them--as He wisely desires. And it has often comforted the saint to realize that the hand of God is in every trial, trouble, and disappointment.

Do you sweetly acquiescence in God's will, in faith that whatever He permits in our life, is right and best for you?

"He is the LORD; let Him do what is good in His eyes!" 1 Samuel 3:18

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No--keep it!



(J.R. Miller, "Intimate Letters on Personal Problems" 1914)

In 2 Corinthians 12:7-10, Paul tells of a wonderful experience which he had. He had some great suffering which he called "a thorn in the flesh." He does not say what it was--but evidently it was some physical pain, some think epilepsy, some think a trouble with the eyes, some think a nervous affliction. No matter what it was--it was very painful and seemed to interfere with the apostle's usefulness.

Three times, therefore, he besought the Lord that this thorn in the flesh might be taken away. But the answer was, "No--keep it! My grace is sufficient for you--for My strength is made perfect in weakness." Then Paul learned this wonderful secret--that the physical suffering which was so hard to bear--if accepted by him, brought him a corresponding measure of the strength of Christ!

As you read on, you find the apostle saying that he now rejoiced in his infirmity, because the power of Christ thus rested upon him. That is, the suffering, as keen and as terrible as it was--brought Christ nearer to him, brought more of Christ's strength into his life, and thus fitted him for larger spiritual usefulness!

You can apply this to yourself. You have asked God to remove your thorn in the flesh--and He has not done it. But let me assure you that the words which the Lord spoke to Paul--He speaks to you also. His grace is sufficient for you. His strength is made perfect in your weakness. That is, you will get more of Christ's help in your life, because of the suffering which you are enduring, than if the suffering were to be taken away--you then receiving less of Christ's help, because needing less.

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Sovereign Grace Missionary BaptistChurch
1217 Dillon  Texarkana, Texas  75501
  July 15, 2012          
   Newsletter Number 375

Brother Randy Johnson, Pastor                     Brother Ronnie Henderson, Song Director
  Pastor E-Mail: pastor@sgmbaptist.com          Web Site: www.sgmbaptist.com

"Where The Truths Of God’s Word Have Been  Taught For More Than Fifty Years”




You Were Asked To  Pray For:



All of Our Military, Their Family’s & All  the Civilian Workers in The Middle East, Zee Mink Fuller and Family, Her son’s  Bryan Armstrong and Hunter Hackie, Daughter Shannon, and Brother Philip &  Sondra Thornsberry, Frank & Sonya Trusty,  Frank & Dawana Reigel,  Andrew Preston, Larry Mollette, Larry Mollette II & Family, Kerry  Pennington, Kim Poole, Danny & Nita Mollette, Wendell Henderson, Judy  Dunn, Martha Gray, Joshua Kidd, Matthew Kidd, Dina McCray, Ronnie Henderson  Jr. & Son Kevin Henderson, Ricky Henderson and Family,  Bro. & Mrs.  Hammond, Charles Hammond, Archie & Barbara Griffin, Bro. & Sister Bob  Keller, Kathy Rosinbaum, Mary Ramsey, Donna Johnson, Fay Johnson, James and  Luann Reynolds, Timothy and Nathan Fails, Jacob Ramsey, Jim & Linda  Meier, Letha Langford, Brother & Sister Kelley Hinson and Kelley Lee,  Jerry Hughes, Sister Nita Bookout, Justin Bookout, Pastor G. L. Burr, Melody  Carr, Janie Capps, Imajo Tracy, Linda Hughes, Roy Lemmon, Lee  Mollette’s Daughter & Granddaughter Kristal, Dale Barnes –  Kathy Johnson and their mother, Tammy Hairston, Tommy Lee Walker, Pat and  Waymon Abercrombie, Barbara Brewer, Michelle Knowlton, Donna Jones,  Frank  Roberts, Dina Thomas, Dale and Linda Trahan, Linda Mollette, Brother Curtis  Pugh, Brother Sullivan and the work in Thailand, Brother Raul and the work in Romania,  and  Bro. Sergey Mochalov and the Churches in Russia.



The Pastors  Corner:



“God’s  Relationship To The Universe” Part 2



In our second lesson we want to look at two points  (1.) God Preserves The Universe and (2.) God Controls The Universe. As wee  look at these two points briefly they should bring great joy to every  Christian’s heart. The very fact that God Preserves The Universe means  we can trust that nothing will ever happen in all creation unless God causes  it or He allows it. Today some speak of “global warming” however  it is nonsense because the universe is preserved by God’s power. “Thou,  even thou, art LORD alone; thou hast made heaven, the heaven of heavens, with  all their host, the earth, and all things that are therein, the seas, and all  that is therein, and thou preservest them all; and the host of heaven  worshippeth thee.” Nehemiah 9:6. God will only allow what He has  predetermined to come to pass and if “global warming” exists it  is part of His plan to melt the earth. The oxygen level, the heat from the  sun, and the cold are all controlled by God. Secondly is God Controls The  Universe; the fact that God preserves the universe also means that He  controls it. He controls the weather, the seas, sun, moon, stars, and etc. He  also controls man and even mans will; if anyone says God cannot change mans  will believe him not. Remember Pharaoh, God changed his heart. Exodus 9:12  "And the LORD hardened the heart of Pharaoh..."  Also notice John  12:40 "He hath blinded their eyes, and hardened their heart; that they  should not see with their eyes, nor understand with their heart, and be  converted, and I should heal them." Folks people say all sorts of things  but take many of them with a grain of salt; because God is in total control  of every aspect of His creation. Everything is done according to Gods blessed  will. God controled the hearts of them that crucified Jesus Christ. Acts 4:27  - 28 "For of a truth against thy holy child Jesus, whom thou hast  anointed, both Herod, and Pontius Pilate, with the Gentiles, and the people  of Israel,  were gathered together, (28.) For to do whatsoever thy hand and thy counsel  determined before to be done."




For Our Weekly  Meditation:



They  Preached the Gospel



I preached a sermon by this title recently and  thought I would write down the thoughts the Lord has given me on this.



At the ending of the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, and  Luke we see our Lord after His resurrection and before His ascension meeting  with the eleven apostles. In all three places He gives strict orders of what  He expects them to do once they have been empowered by the Holy Spirit. They  were commanded to preach the Gospel! Not just in Jerusalem but by starting there and going  out into all the world.

 Luke 24:47 “And that repentance and remission  of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem.”  And  so they did. These eleven men preached the Gospel of their Lord and Savior  Jesus Christ through out all Jerusalem, Judea, Sumeria, and to the utter most parts of the  world.

One thing I would like to note here is that if you  will notice in the “Great Commission” Our Lord gave to these  eleven men, He gave it to His church. Jesus was meeting with the first church  when He gave the Commission. He was not nor did He give it to all those who  claim to be Christians. This Commission was given to the first church to be  passed down to their lineage through out the time to come.

The purpose of this Great Commission? To spread the  Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ and to grow the church. No where did Jesus us  tell the first church to preach the Gospel and leave the new converts to  wonder about. No He told Peter in the last part of John 21:17 “Feed my  sheep.” One of the greatest mistakes that we as Baptist have made down  through our history and are still making today is we preach the Gospel and we  see the Lord save someone then we don't finish up by teaching them the ways  of our Lord. This has brought about much false doctrine and disbelief in  churches and in Christianity. Because we don't follow up with those whom the  Lord has saved with strong bible teaching many out there are falling in false  doctrine and into apostate Christianity. 

Now back to our main topic.

The first church was command by our Lord to preach  the Gospel to all nations. We see them doing this on the day of Pentecost. In  Acts 2 we see that there are Jewish men gathered at Jerusalem from “every nation under  heaven.” The Apostles, by the Holy Spirit, where preaching the Gospel  to these men. These men could understand them in their own language and  dialects. The Lord allowed these simple uneducated men(by the world's  standards) to be able to speak in the languages these people understood.  Peter preached his first recorded Gospel sermon here in verses 14-36. When he  was done they asked him “What shall we do” Peter told them to  repent and be baptized. Now how often do we hear a sermon on repentance  today? Not very often, even in our own ranks.

Now some may wonder why the Lord chose this group of  Jews to be the first ones for the apostles to preach too? Simple, notice that  they were from “every nation under heaven”. What did the Lord  tell us in the Great Commission? Mark 16:15 “Go ye into all the world,  and preach the gospel to every creature.”  Isn't that what they did?  The Apostles, the leaders of the first church, preached the gospel to these  Jews, who were from all over the world, who were gathered at Jerusalem. And when all was said and done  the Lord saved and added to the church about three thousand souls that day.  So eventually these men would go back to their homes, in the nations where  they were from and would tell of this Gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ to all  their families, friends, and everyone they came in contact with. Thus the  Gospel, through the Great Commission Jesus gave to the first church began to  spread through out the world.

So what is so different in our day? Are we not to  continue this Great Commission our Lord gave to our Forefathers of the faith?  Why are we so eager to support mission works overseas and yet deny that the  greatest mission field is here at home in our own country?

Our job as Landmark Sovereign Grace Missionary  Baptist is to preach the Gospel unto all the nations starting here at home  then going to all nations. Our job is also to teach, those whom the Lord has  saved and placed in His churches, the very Word of God, not sparing one  doctrine. I write these words not only to other ministers out there but  mostly to myself. If we fail in these areas we have failed our Lord.



By Brother Steve McCool



Notice:



The church has approved the building of our new  auditorium and work has already begun and we do praise God for it and be sure  to pray for it and those in charge of it.

Saturday 14 July 2012

Daily Promises


Blue Letter Bible
July 14, 2012


                         But God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty; (1 Corinthians 1:27)


It is simply breathtaking to contemplate the remarkable grace of God! Amazingly, He chose men of all trades, men of low stature, men from all walks of life—He chose you! He desired those dead in their sins to be resurrected and re-created to declare His infinite glory! What a privilege! What an incredible honor to preach the good news to a dark world! May we rejoice greatly and give praise to His glorious name!

God does not promise to lift the burden away

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(J.R. Miller, "Intimate Letters on Personal Problems" 1914)

An old Scripture promise reads, "Cast your burden upon the Lord--and He shall sustain you." Psalm 55:22. Every burden you have, you may cast on the Lord; that is, you may lay it on Him in prayer and by faith. But notice that God does not promise to lift the burden away--all He promises is to sustain you, that is, to give you strength to do the work, to bear the burden, to meet the difficulty, to master the hindrance or the obstacle.

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Friday 13 July 2012

Fly into the bosom of Christ for refuge and safety!

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(J.R. Miller, "Intimate Letters on Personal Problems" 1914)

"Whoever humbles himself like this child, is the greatest in the kingdom of Heaven." Matthew 18:4

It is very sweet just to nestle down in the bosom of Christ--to be as a little child with Him. Those who come otherwise do not get near to Him--but the child-like always find a close place in His heart. So the more like children we can be in our trust and in the simplicity of our faith, in humbleness of disposition, in willingness to do His will and to learn of Him--the nearer to Him shall we get, and the more shall we enjoy of His love.

Some years ago, as I was passing along one of our streets one afternoon, I heard a fluttering of birds over my head and, looking up, saw a little bird flying wildly about in circles, chased by a hawk! The bird flew down lower and lower, and then darted into my bosom, under my coat. I cannot quite express to you, the feeling which filled my heart at that moment--that a little bird, chased by an enemy, had come to me for refuge, trusting me in time of danger. I laid my hand over the bird, which nestled as quietly and confidently under my coat, as a baby would in a mother's bosom. I carried the little thing along for several blocks until I thought the way was clear of danger, and then let it out. It flew away into the air again, but showed no fear of me. Ever since that experience, I have understood better what it is to fly into the bosom of Christ for refuge and safety in time of danger, or in time of distress.

All this helps me to understand better what it means to Jesus when we, hunted and chased by enemies, or suffering from weakness or pain--fly to Him and hide ourselves in His love.

That is all we need to do--just to creep into the bosom of Christ, and lie down there, with no fear, no anxiety, but with  simple trust.

The lines of Wesley's old hymn have meant more ever since:

"Jesus, lover of my soul,
 Let me to Thy bosom fly,
 While the nearer waters roll,
 While the tempest still is high.

 Hide me, O my Savior, hide,
 Till the storm of life is past;
 Safe into the haven guide;
 Oh, receive my soul at last.

 Other refuge have I none,
 Hangs my helpless soul on Thee;
 Leave, ah! leave me not alone,
 Still support and comfort me.

 All my trust on Thee is stayed,
 All my help from Thee I bring;
 Cover my defenseless head
 With the shadow of Thy wing."

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Daily Promises


Blue Letter Bible
July 13, 2012



                         The LORD hath heard my supplication; the LORD will receive my prayer. (Psalms 6:9)


Ever are the Lord's ears aroused to hear the pleas of His people. He is faithful to hear your cry and to answer your prayer. Take joy in the lovingkindness of the Lord and give glory to His mighty name even as He answers your pleas with peace and comfort.

Thursday 12 July 2012

My whole creed and duty


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(J.R. Miller, "Intimate Letters on Personal Problems" 1914)

"No longer do I call you servants; but I have called you friends!" John 15:15

For myself, after all my years of teaching and helping others, and all my experiences as a Christian, my whole creed is summed up into one little sentence, "Christ and I are friends!" No friend in all the world is so near to me as He is. I trust Him, I love Him, I take everything to Him, I lay every burden upon Him. I go to Him for wisdom, for help, for the love I need in my own heart. He is everything to me as Friend.

Christ is my personal Friend. He is my dearest, truest, strongest and best Friend!

Then for myself, my whole duty is summed up in being a friend of Christ's. He says, "You are my friends, if you do whatever I command you." This includes all Scripture commands.

In telling you this, I want to help you to understand that the essential thing in the Christian life is knowing Christ, trusting Him, loving Him, following Him, having Christ for your Friend--and being His friend.

"Yes, He is altogether lovely! This is my Beloved, and this is my Friend!" Song of Songs 5:16

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Daily Promises


Blue Letter Bible
July 12, 2012


                         Notwithstanding the Lord stood with me, and strengthened me; that by me the preaching might be fully known, and [that] all the Gentiles might hear: and I was delivered out of the mouth of the lion.                         (2 Timothy 4:17)


When it comes time for us to proclaim the gospel, we can stand in the Lord's strength and He will be right by our side the whole time. Be bold, O believer! Take your strength in the almighty arm of your Father, O child of heaven!

Whom, When, How to Deliver

Thursday, July 12, 2012

Faith's Check Book, Daily Entry

C. H. Spurgeon



July 12

Whom, When, How to Deliver


The Lord knoweth how to deliver the godly out of temptations, and to reserve the unjust unto the day of judgment to be punished. (2 Peter 2:9)

The godly are tempted and tried. That is not true faith which is never put to the test. But the godly are delivered out of their trials, and that not by chance, nor by secondary agencies, but by the Lord Himself. He personally undertakes the office of delivering those who trust Him. God loves the godly or godlike, and He makes a point of knowing where they are and how they fare.
Sometimes their way seems to be a labyrinth, and they cannot imagine how they are to escape from threatening danger. What they do not know, their Lord knows. He knows whom to deliver, and when to deliver, and how to deliver. He delivers in the way which is most beneficial to the godly, most crushing to the tempter, and most glorifying to Himself. We may leave the "how" with the Lord and be content to rejoice in the fact that He will, in some way or other, bring His own people through all the dangers, trials, and temptations for this mortal life to His own right hand in glory.
This day it is not for me to pry into my Lord's secrets but patiently to wait His time, knowing this, that though I know nothing, my heavenly Father knows.

Wednesday 11 July 2012

Daily Promises



Blue Letter Bible
July 11, 2012



                         How precious also are thy thoughts unto me, O God! how great is the sum of them! [If] I should count them, they are more in number than the sand: when I awake, I am still with thee.                         (Psalms 139:17-18)


The Lord is constantly thinking about you, His child! His thoughts are always for your good (Jeremiah 29:11). He loves you with an everlasting love (Jeremiah 31:3)! How great is the sum of your thoughts towards God? How much time do you spend thinking about Him? Remember your Father's love for you! Recall your identity as His own child! Rejoice in Him and take heart in whom you have been made to be: one of the everlasting sons of God!

The law of Christian life

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(J.R. Miller, "Intimate Letters on Personal Problems" 1914)

Love never gets its debts paid off. "Do not owe anyone anything, except the continuing debt to love one another, for he who loves his fellowman has fulfilled the law." Romans 13:8

Paul implies that we never can pay off all love's debts, or even if we do get them paid off at the close of some happy day--we shall find them waiting at our door in the morning, as clamorous as ever. Of          course, LOVE is the law of Christian life. We cannot be Christlike--unless we love. But oh! is not love tremendously costly sometimes?

There is no other life, like that of love. Nothing brings us so much happiness--as living for others, giving out our lives in sweet helpfulness, whatever the cost may be. The sweetest happiness which we can get in the world, comes from adding a little to the happiness of others.

"By this all men will know that you are My disciples--if you love one another." John 13:35

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Tuesday 10 July 2012



Sovereign Grace Missionary BaptistChurch
1217 Dillon  Texarkana, Texas  75501
  July 08, 2012          
   Newsletter Number 374

Brother Randy Johnson, Pastor                     Brother Ronnie Henderson, Song Director
  Pastor E-Mail: pastor@sgmbaptist.com          Web Site: www.sgmbaptist.com

"Where The Truths Of God’s Word Have Been  Taught For More Than Fifty Years”






You Were Asked To  Pray For:



All of Our Military, Their Family’s & All  the Civilian Workers in The Middle East, Zee Mink Fuller and Family, Her son’s  Bryan Armstrong and Hunter Hackie, Daughter Shannon, and Brother Philip &  Sondra Thornsberry, Frank & Sonya Trusty,  Frank & Dawana Reigel,  Andrew Preston, Larry Mollette, Larry Mollette II & Family, Kerry  Pennington, Kim Poole, Danny & Nita Mollette, Wendell Henderson, Judy  Dunn, Martha Gray, Joshua Kidd, Matthew Kidd, Dina McCray, Ronnie Henderson  Jr. & Son Kevin Henderson, Ricky Henderson and Family,  Bro. & Mrs.  Hammond, Charles Hammond, Archie & Barbara Griffin, Bro. & Sister Bob  Keller, Kathy Rosinbaum, Mary Ramsey, Donna Johnson, Fay Johnson, James and  Luann Reynolds, Timothy and Nathan Fails, Jacob Ramsey, Jim & Linda  Meier, Letha Langford, Brother & Sister Kelley Hinson and Kelley Lee,  Jerry Hughes, Sister Nita Bookout, Justin Bookout, Pastor G. L. Burr, Melody  Carr, Janie Capps, Imajo Tracy, Linda Hughes, Roy Lemmon, Lee  Mollette’s Daughter & Granddaughter Kristal, Dale Barnes –  Kathy Johnson and their mother, Tammy Hairston, Tommy Lee Walker, Pat and  Waymon Abercrombie, Barbara Brewer, Michelle Knowlton, Donna Jones,  Frank  Roberts, Dina Thomas, Dale and Linda Trahan, Brother Curtis Pugh, Brother  Sullivan and the work in Thailand, Brother Raul and the work in Romania,  and Bro. Sergey  Mochalov and the Churches in Russia.






The Pastors  Corner:



“God’s  Relationship To The Universe” Part 1



We now come in our Baptist Doctrinal Studies to God  and His relationship to the entire universe. The bible says that God is a  Spirit which means He has no form of a body which separates Him form all of  His creation except angels whom also has not form of a body unless that take  on one. However angels are also created beings. God unlike His creation holds  several attributes that none of His creation has, like immutability,  omniscience, omnipotence, and omnipresent, and it is these attributes that  proves that He is far above any of His creation. As we continue to look at  God’s relationship to the entire universe let us back up as far in time  as we can and that is Genesis 1:1 "In the beginning God created the heaven  and the earth." There are two things that must draw our attention in  this verse; (1.) "In the beginning God created the heaven…”  and (2.) “…the earth." I believe this takes us back to the  very beginning of creation in our first point and the beginning of time in  our second point. Before God created heaven nothing else existed. I believe  the word “heaven” here refers to heaven itself and not the  universe. I believe verse one is telling us God created heave first, and then  He created the earth. Now some may ask “how much time span is there  between the creation of heaven and the creation of the earth”? Well  none; because until time started at the earths creation there was no such  thing as time. Time only started as the Lord created the earth; therefore on  day one the Lord created the earth, light, day and darkness for a day, and  divided land from the waters. Now there are some who will say that the  “heaven” in verse one is the “heavens” or what we  know as the solar system but I must disagree because it as all created on the  fourth day. It is all to explain where the light came from in verse 2;  however it is simple to explain that light in saying “God was the light  thereof. Now there is one more point I wish to make before moving on; and  that is what is known as “The Gap Theory” and I can explain this  in three simple and understandable words “it don’t exist”  Some folks believe that there is a “gap” between verses 1 and 2  and it could be millions or billions of years but this is simply wishful  thinking of the part of some very mistaken people. Our next point is that God  used no manner in His creation except man and woman. Heaven, the earth, and  all other of Gods creation was by “Fiat” (that is by  authoritative command) by this we mean that God simply spoke creation into  existence. Psalms 33:6, 8 - 9 "By the word of the LORD were the heavens  made; and all the host of them by the breath of his mouth. (8.) Let all the  earth fear the LORD: let all the inhabitants of the world stand in awe of  him. (9.) For he spake, and it was done; he commanded, and it stood  fast."  When God called creation into existence He done all things after  the counsel of His own will but He absolutely began with no materials because  nothing existed but God Himself. Our last point today is this; God created  the earth and the heavens for His own glory but He also created for man well  being. Everything in creation in the universe and the earth is there to  support mans existence. He gave us light and darkness for day and night  – time and seasons, He gave us also vegetation and trees for our food  and benefits, and He created every thing in its adult form and out of nothing  but His blessed words. Some of those wrong people say that God planted seeds  for the vegetation and trees but as we look as into Genesis 2:5 we see  "And every plant of the field before it was in the earth, and  every herb of the field before it grew: for the LORD God had not  caused it to rain upon the earth, and there was not a man to till  the ground."  It doesn’t exactly sound like there was any way for  seed to grow. However these same wrong people cannot figure out which came  first; the chicken or the egg, well the chicken did, so simple!!


   




For Our Weekly  Meditation:



Idiots  catching flies!

Most people are not seeking to escape from the wrath  to come- they are busy in worldly things while hell is near them. They are  like idiots catching flies on board a ship which is in the very act of  sinking!

We see many people busy about their bodies,  decorating themselves, when their soul is in ruin. They are like a man  painting the front door, when the house is in flames!

Men are in a restless pursuit after satisfaction in  earthly things.

They will hunt the purlieus of wealth, they will  travel the pathways of fame, they will dig into the mines of knowledge, they  will exhaust themselves in the deceitful delights of sin, and, finding them  all to be vanity and emptiness, they will become very perplexed and  disappointed.

But they will still continue their fruitless search.

Though wearied, they still stagger forward under the  influence of spiritual madness, and though there is no result to be reached  except that of everlasting disappointment, yet they press forward with much  ardor.

Living for today is enough for them-- that they are  still alive, that they possess present comforts and present enjoyments, this  contents the many.

As for the future, they say, "Let it take care  of itself."

As for eternity, they leave others to care for its  realities; the present life is enough for them.

Their motto is, "Let us eat and drink, for  tomorrow we die."

They have no forethought for their eternal state;  the present hour absorbs them.

Carnal minds pursue with all their might earth's  vanities, and when they are wearied in their pursuit they but change their  direction, and continue the idle chase.

They turn to another and another of earth's broken  cisterns, hoping to find water where not a drop was ever discovered yet.



By Charles Spurgeon from his Sermon  “"Hope, Yet No Hope. No Hope, Yet Hope".  Isaiah 57:10






Church Notices:



Our next church business meeting will be today at  4pm. We plan to have an up or down vote on the new church building and if it  passes we will have three other vote concerning the new building. Therefore  we suggest all be in attendance.






Church Web Site  Update:



We are continuing to build our new web site. We have  a lot completed and we believe it is wonderful. Please take the time to visit  the new site at http://www.sgmbaptist.com and e-mail the Pastor with any  suggestions. If you know someone who has our church site linked to their web  site please let them know of this change. Baptists Online has not yet been  moved therefore the web address remains the same.

The secret of a beautiful life!

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(J.R. Miller, "Intimate Letters on Personal Problems" 1914)

The secret of a beautiful life is living in unbroken fellowship with Christ, under the influence of His presence, and the inspiration of His love and grace.

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Daily Promises


Blue Letter Bible
July 10, 2012



                         Grace [be] to you and peace from God the Father, and [from] our Lord Jesus Christ, Who gave himself for our sins, that he might deliver us from this present evil world, according to the will of God and our Father:  (Galatians 1:3-4)


God desired to provide a way of reconciliation for us. This could only be done through His Son Jesus. Out of His love for us and obedience to His Father, Jesus died and paid the penalty for our sins. So rejoice you believers! Rejoice in the road to heaven paved with the grace and mercy of the heavenly throne!

Monday 9 July 2012

Steep, craggy, and beset with foes!

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(Newman Hall, "Follow Jesus")


There are many variations in the Christian's path. Sometimes it is smooth and flowery, with sunny slopes, and sylvan shades, and prospects which entrance the soul with loveliness. There are seasons when no        doubts perplex the spirit, and when our circumstances in life are in harmony with duty, so that the right path is an easy path.

But this is the exception.     

Often the road is steep, craggy, and beset with foes! Sometimes it is a "Hill Difficulty" throughout, and Apollyon stretches himself across the way aiming his fiery darts at the pilgrim. Then some bypath attracts us by its pleasantness, while Satan whispers that a thorny and painful road, cannot be the true one.     

But Jesus never promised to lead us only in smooth places. It is not necessary that we should always rejoice--but it is necessary that we always follow. Wherever He goes, rough or smooth--there we also must go.


"My sheep hear My voice, I know them, and they follow Me. I give them eternal life, and they will never      perish--ever! No one will snatch them out of My hand!" John 10:27-28

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An infant's breath might blow it out!

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(Charles Spurgeon)

"He will not break a bruised reed, and He will not put out a smoldering wick." Matthew 12:20

What is weaker than the bruised reed--or the smoldering wick?

A reed that grows in the marsh--let but the wild duck land upon it, and it snaps; let but the foot of man brush against it, and it is bruised and broken; every wind that flits across the river--moves it to and fro. You can conceive of nothing more frail or brittle, or whose existence is more in jeopardy, than a bruised reed.

Then look at the smoldering wick--what is it? It has a spark within it, it is true--but it is almost smothered; an infant's breath might blow it out; nothing has a more precarious existence than its flame.

Weak things are here described--yet Jesus says of them, "I will not break a bruised reed; I will not put out a smoldering wick." Some of God's children are made strong to do mighty works for Him; God has His Samsons here and there--who can pull up Gaza's gates, and carry them to the top of the hill; He has a few mighties who are lion-like men. But the majority of His people are a timid, trembling race. They are like starlings, frightened at every passer-by. They are a little fearful flock. If temptation comes--they are        captured like birds in a snare. If trial threatens--they are ready to faint. Their frail skiff is tossed up and down by every wave; they drift along like a sea bird on the crest of the billows--weak things, without strength, without wisdom, without foresight.

Yet, as weak as they are--and because they are so weak--they have this promise made specially to them! Herein is grace and graciousness! Herein is love and loving-kindness! How it reveals the compassion of Jesus to us--so gentle, tender, considerate! We need ever shrink back from His touch. We need never fear a harsh word from Him--though He might well chide us for our weakness. Bruised reeds shall have no blows from Him, and the smoldering wick no damping frowns!

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