Sovereign Grace Missionary Baptist Church

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

1217 Dillon Texarkana, Texas 75501

December 31, 2017          

 Newsletter Number 651

Brother Randy Johnson, Pastor                   Brother James Thomas, Song Leader

Pastor E-Mail: pastor@sgmbaptist.com                                          Web Site: www.sgmbaptist.com

“A Church Seeking To Please God In Prayer, Song, Preaching, And Worship.”

Please Join Us As We 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,  Johnnie Stephens, Alecia Stephens, and children, Frankie Baldridge and daughter, Buckie Thompson, Frank & Sonya Trusty, Frank & Dawana Reigel, Andrew Preston, Larry & Martha Mollette and Her Family, Tyrell Loyd, Bonnie, Ted O'Bonion, Larry Mollette II & Family, Kerry Adcock, Kim Poole, Danny & Nita Mollette, The Muncy Family, Lee & Mary Mollette, Wendell Henderson, Joshua Kidd, Matthew Kidd, Ronnie and Sarah Henderson, Ronnie Henderson Jr. & Children, Ricky Henderson and Family, Jacie Henderson, Velma Hammond, Charles, Don Hammond and Families, Vickie Adkins, Archie Griffin, Donna Johnson, James and Luann Reynolds, Timothy Fails, Nathan Fails, Jacob Ramsey, Jerry Hughes, Pastor G. L. Burr, Melody Carr, Janie Capps, Linda Hughes, Donna Jones, Gina, Brother Kelley and Sister Hinson, The Harris Family, Teresa Bookout, Little Titan Thomas (Trent and Tiffane Thomas child), James – Diane and Brooke Thomas, Jace Fails, Steve Sparks, Sister Ann McSwain, Elaine Sparks, James daughter’s mother-in-law, David Leman, Danny Hammond,  Brother Curtis Pugh, Brother Dan Sullivan the work in Thailand, Brother Raul and the work in Romania, Bro. Sergey Mochalov and the Churches in Russia.

A Thought From our Pastor:

The Seven Stars, Look Where They Are.

 “The mystery of the seven stars which thou sawest in my right hand, and the seven golden candlesticks. The seven stars are the angels of the seven churches: and the seven candlesticks which thou sawest are the seven churches.” Revelation 1:20

We are always reminded in the scriptures of whom we are. We are sinners saved by grace, we are church members by the choosing and setting in place by God, and we serve by God’s grace. We come to a better understand over the years and appreciate it more as we grow in the wisdom of God. This is what the Apostille Paul was talking about when he wrote “But by the grace of God I am what I am…”1 Corinthians 15:10 I am so blessed to be a minister in the Gospel of Jesus Christ, and more blessed to have been more so selected to be a Pastor of one of the Lord’s Churches. We sometimes speak of how church is to thank God for the Pastors, how the church should bless their Pastors, but what about the Pastors the churches? What a place in the church to be, her Pastor! Praise God for His wonderful gift to me and those like me. I love being a child of God, it is the most blessed of all His creation, and it will be the most exciting in the time called eternity. I think sometimes, what the future holds for us poor worthless sinners that God chose before the foundation of the world to save. Sometimes, I simply get lost in my thought, I love to wonder when the Lord might return and rapture us all out of this evil, God hating world. What a blessed thought! Then, we must return our thoughts to what is real right now, and that is continuing the work of God on this earth and in the churches. I am a Pastor, a man that God has set in this church to feed, love, care for, and to protect with everything I have and everything Christ gives me to do so. I pray that what I do is enough, and in the end Jesus Christ, the churches Head, the judge of all the lost and saved will say “job well done”! But I must be consistently reminded again, even with the fight I put into the work, “…by the grace of God I am what I am…” These seven churches in Revelations are not only seven local churches but also seven periods of time of the “church age”. The church age began when Jesus first called her out, brought her together, and spoke to her, and set her in Jerusalem. Her end will be when Jesus returns for the rapture. Through time she has been through many troublesome times, times where members were slaughtered for the cause of Christ, and until today which is the time of apostasy. But with every moment of this time, Jesus Christ has stood in the circle of the churches. Every time the church gathers, she gathers for one reason, to hear the message God has sent her through her Pastor. This is the reason that as Pastors we need never forget our commission “feed my sheep”. Feed them with the message that Jesus Christ has put in your heart, you are the mouth piece of Jesus Christ on this earth. As Pastors, we are the seven stars, messenger’s, Pastors to the local churches, and Jesus Christ, the one in the center of the churches, the one who holds us in His right hand has sent for this, so, very important work. As Pastors we will do what Jesus Christ wants, say what He wants, and do what he wants without fear of anyone in all creation, because He holds us all in His right hand. Personally, I cannot think of a more blessed place to be as the churches pulpit, nor a more blessed time to be than right here in the year of our Lord 2018! So, no matter what that time brings, Satan and the world brings to us, no matter the time of Apostasy is here, and the churches are small in number, I know Jesus Christ holds me in His right hand, there is no better place to be than that. So, Pastors, hold your head up, do your called and ordained work, and keep looking-up, our Head is coming soon. May God bless us all in 2018, and remember where you are and Who is holding you.        

A Puritan Prayer:

Hold me and never let me go!

O God of love,

Preserve . . .

  my understanding from error,

  my affections from love of idols,

  my lips from speaking deceit,

  my conduct from stain of vice,

  my character from appearance of evil;

that I may be

  harmless,

  blameless,

  rebukeless,

  exemplary,

  useful,

  light-giving,

  prudent,

  zealous for Your glory and the good

    of my fellow-men.

Cast Your cords of love around my heart, then hold me and never let me go!

Church News:

Happy Birthday to Sister Donna Johnson Tuesday January 02

Happy Birthday to Sister Sarah Henderson Wednesday January 03

Happy Birthday to Brother Ronnie Henderson Thursday January 04

Please have a Safe and Happy New Years, it is “2018”

1 Corinthians 15:42-44

“So also is the resurrection of the dead. It is sown in corruption; it is raised in incorruption: (43) It is sown in dishonour; it is raised in glory: it is sown in weakness; it is raised in power: (44) It is sown a natural body; it is raised a spiritual body. There is a natural body, and there is a spiritual body.”

The sweet, twin hounds of heaven!

  ~  ~  ~  ~

(Don Fortner)

"Surely goodness and mercy will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever!" Psalm 23:6

Happy New Year!

Children of God, how thankful we ought to be!

How happy! How God has blessed us! He has . . .

  loved us with an everlasting love,

  chosen us as the objects of His grace,

  redeemed us by the precious blood of His dear Son,

  called us to life and faith in Christ,

  forgiven all our sins,

  justified us,

  sanctified us and

  preserves us!

But that is not all.

The Lord our God daily loads us with all the bounty of His grace in Christ in daily providence. The sweet, twin hounds of heaven (Goodness and Mercy) have been at our heels all the days of our lives--and shall continue to pursue us right into Heaven's glory!

   ~  ~  ~  ~

Daily Promises

Blue Letter Bible

December 31, 2017

O death, where [is] thy sting? O grave, where [is] thy victory? The sting of death [is] sin; and the strength of sin [is] the law. But thanks [be] to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord. (1 Corinthians 15:55-58)

Death defeated! The Law stripped of power! No longer crushed beneath the fell weight of the curse! Praise the Lord that the resurrection of Christ has secured your own resurrection, O people of the Almighty! Hell can hold no victory over you, O believer, for you are a child of the Most High, made into a new creation. Perfect! Righteous! Clothed exquisitely and adorned in beauty befitting the bride of Christ Himself! Christ has cleansed you unto righteousness, so go forth in that righteousness, steadfast, immovable, and always abounding in the good work that all God's children desire!

Daily Thoughts December 30, 2017

Submitting to the Lord’s will in all things to reap the benefits!

James 1:2-4  My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations;

Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience.

But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing.

Daily Promises

Blue Letter Bible

December 30, 2017

My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me: And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any [man] pluck them out of my hand. (John 10:27-28)

If we are truly believers in Christ, then we will also be followers of Him. Because we believe in and follow Jesus, we will live eternally in heaven with Him. Once we have been saved, no one can take away our salvation!

Daily Thoughts December 29, 2017

Even so Lord, come quickly!

Revelation 22:18-21  For I testify unto every man that heareth the words of the prophecy of this book, If any man shall add unto these things, God shall add unto him the plagues that are written in this book:

And if any man shall take away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God shall take away his part out of the book of life, and out of the holy city, and from the things which are written in this book.

He which testifieth these things saith, Surely I come quickly. Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus.

The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen.

Behold Him!

  ~  ~  ~  ~

(John Newton)

"God made Him who had no sin--to be sin for us." 2 Corinthians 5:21

Behold the beloved Jesus, perfectly spotless and holy--yet made an example of the severest justice.

Behold Him . . .

  prostrate and agonizing in the garden;

  enduring the vilest insults from wicked men;

  torn with whips, and nails, and thorns;

  suspended, naked, wounded, and bleeding upon the cross--forsaken by God!

Sin was the cause of all His anguish. He stood in the place of sinners, and therefore was not spared.

Not any, or all, the evils which the world has known--afford such proof of the dreadful effects and detestable nature of sin, as the knowledge of Christ crucified!

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Daily Promises

Blue Letter Bible

December 29, 2017

But now thus saith the LORD that created thee, O Jacob, and he that formed thee, O Israel, Fear not: for I have redeemed thee, I have called [thee] by thy name; thou [art] mine. When thou passest through the waters, I [will be] with thee; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow thee: when thou walkest through the fire, thou shalt not be burned; neither shall the flame kindle upon thee. (Isaiah 43:1-2)

Take heed, O children of faith, to the voice of the Lord, for He has redeemed you and brought you unto so great a salvation! Through fire, famine, and flood—through all earthly perils—the Lord is with you protecting and sustaining you. Know this and be comforted!

A weak, defenseless, thoughtless creature--and prone to wander!

  ~  ~  ~  ~

(John Newton)

"I am the Good Shepherd. The Good Shepherd lays down His life for the sheep." John 10:11

This great and good Shepherd has a flock, whom He loved from everlasting--and whom having loved, He will love to the end. He . . .

  humbled Himself for their sakes,

  submitted to partake of their nature and their sorrows,

  took upon Him the form of a servant,

  and was made in the likeness of sinful flesh.

He died for His sheep, "the just for the unjust," to redeem them . . .

  from the curse of the law,

  from the guilt and dominion of sin,

  from the power of Satan--and to bring them to God.

They, by nature, are all "gone astray, every one to his own way". But having thus bought them with His blood--in His own appointed time He seeks, finds, and restores His sheep. By the power of His Word and Spirit--He makes Himself known to their hearts, causes them to hear and understand His voice, and guides them into His fold. They are under His immediate protection and government.

Considered as individuals, they are fitly described by the name of sheep. A sheep is a weak, defenseless, thoughtless creature--and prone to wander! If once gone astray--it is seldom known to return of its own accord.

A sheep has neither strength to fight with the wolf, nor speed to escape from him; nor has it the foresight of the ant, to provide its own sustenance.

Such is our character, and our situation--

  unable to take care of ourselves,

  prone to wander from our resting-place,

  exposed to enemies which we can neither withstand nor avoid,

  without resource in ourselves,

  and taught, by daily experience, the insufficiency of everything around us.

Yet, if this Shepherd is our Shepherd, as weak and helpless as we are--we may be of good courage. If we can say with David, "The Lord is my Shepherd"--then we may make the same inferences which he did, "Therefore I shall not want. Therefore I need not fear."

"My sheep listen to My voice; I know them, and they follow Me. I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish! No one can snatch them out of My hand!" John 10:27-28

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Daily Promises

Blue Letter Bible

December 28, 2017

[[To the chief Musician for the sons of Korah, A Song upon Alamoth.]] God [is] our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. (Psalm 46:1)

Be assured, O believer, that the Lord your God is with you. He shall shelter your spirit in His mighty house forever. Never need you fear, for He is even now your aid against all manner of trouble. Rejoice, therefore, in His love and power!

Daily Thoughts December 28, 2017

Luke 16:9-13  And I say unto you, Make to yourselves friends of the mammon of unrighteousness; that, when ye fail, they may receive you into everlasting habitations.

He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much: and he that is unjust in the least is unjust also in much.

If therefore ye have not been faithful in the unrighteous mammon, who will commit to your trust the true riches?

And if ye have not been faithful in that which is another man's, who shall give you that which is your own?

No servant can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon.

Daily Thoughts December 27, 2017

Learning through suffering! We are to follow our Lord’s example according to the Lord’s will. Praise the Lord for His mercy and grace!

Hebrews 5:7-8  Who in the days of his flesh, when he had offered up prayers and supplications with strong crying and tears unto him that was able to save him from death, and was heard in that he feared; Though he were a Son, yet learned he obedience by the things which he suffered;

The humble Christian

~  ~  ~  ~

(John Newton)

"By the grace of God, I am what I am!" 1 Corinthians 15:10

The humble Christian will not be easily angered--nor will he be dogmatic and judgmental.

He will be compassionate and tender towards the infirmities of his fellow-sinners; knowing, that, if there is any difference between himself and others--it is grace of God that has made it. He knows that he has the seeds of every evil in his own heart!

Also, under all trials and afflictions, the humble Christian will look to the hand of the Lord, and lay his mouth in the dust--acknowledging that he suffers much less than his iniquities have deserved.

These are some of the advantages and good fruits which the Lord enables us to obtain from that bitter root, indwelling sin.

   ~  ~  ~  ~

Daily Promises

Blue Letter Bible

December 27, 2017

But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you; That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust. (Matthew 5:44-45)

By God's compelling love, we have the honor of sharing kindness and compassion to others—including our enemies. For those who believe, the love of Christ abundantly pours forth and causes overwhelming joy and peace within our hearts. It is by His great compassion that we can love others and know of God's unfathomable adoration for us. How beautiful is salvation! It allows us to share unconditional love for others.

Morning Devotional December 26, 2017

Psalm 42:11

“Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted within me? hope thou in God: for I shall yet praise him, who is the health of my countenance, and my God.”

O child of God, are you feeling cast down and cast out? Does it seem that others are against you and/or will have nothing to do with you? Are there problems at home or on the job that are a great burden? Does it seem no one cares and everything you do seems wrong?

The answer to these questions and more can be in ourselves. Are we following the Lord? Are we praying without ceasing? Are we studying His Word? Are we seeking Him in all things?

We may say “Yes, yes, I am doing these things. But no one seems to listen. No one seems to care. Even my friends and family seem to be against me.” But where is our hope? Who are we truly looking to? Is our hope in men or in God? Are we looking to men or are we looking to God?

Are we searching for what is below or for what is above? Colossians 3:2 “Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth.”

As the Psalmist wrote in our text verse; “hope thou in God:”. Praise Him who is our only true hope. Praise Him who is our Great Comforter. Seek His face in time of trouble and tribulation. Remember God tests His children with trials. To strengthen our faith in Him and to teach us to follow Him and Him only.

O child of God, when all seems lost and when we think we have no place to turn. Look up for your redemption draweth nigh!!!

Psalm 121:2 “My help cometh from the Lord, which made heaven and earth.”

Praise ye the Lord!!!

John Newton Pithy Gems

~  ~  ~  ~

(John Newton)

The more vile we are in our own eyes--the more precious Christ will be to us!

  ~  ~  ~  ~

How unspeakably wonderful it is--to know that all our concerns are held in those hands which bled for us!

  ~  ~  ~  ~

Our sea may sometimes be stormy--but we have an infallible Pilot, and shall infallibly gain our port.

  ~  ~  ~  ~

Our work is great--our time is short--and the consequences of our labors are infinite.

"Hold me up--and I will be safe!" Psalm 119:117

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My grand point in preaching--is to break the hard heart, and to heal the broken heart.

  ~  ~  ~  ~

I am persuaded that love and humility are the highest attainments in the school of Christ--and the brightest evidences that He is indeed our Master.

  ~  ~  ~  ~

We serve a gracious Master--who will overrule even our mistakes to His glory and our own advantage.

  ~  ~  ~  ~

Can we wish, if it were possible, to walk in a path strewed with flowers--when His path was strewed with thorns?

  ~  ~  ~  ~

May we sit at the foot of the cross--and there learn . . .

  what sin has done,

  what justice has done,

  what love has done.

  ~  ~  ~  ~

Healing and wounding are equally from His hand--and equally tokens of His love and care over us.

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Daily Promises

Blue Letter Bible

December 26, 2017

For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace. (Isaiah 9:6)

As Christ came as a child to live and die for His people, so too will He come again arrayed in victory, charging forth in holy righteousness to announce the final consummation of His heavenly kingdom! Great shall be that day! Great in sorrow! Great in joy! All authority is given Him: to judge and to save. Trust upon the saving lifeblood of the risen Lord and rejoice in His return! Mighty will be His host and unparalleled the joy that shall reign eternal upon all His people!

Daily Thoughts December 26, 2017

Mark 12:29-31  And Jesus answered him, The first of all the commandments is, Hear, O Israel; The Lord our God is one Lord:

And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength: this is the first commandment.

And the second is like, namely this, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. There is none other commandment greater than these.

Daily Thoughts December 25, 2017

In a world so prejudiced against God and all the doctrines and values in the Bible, forgiving those who wrong us because we want to serve the Lord and follow Him no matter what can be really hard at times. But it is a command not a choice we can make. Lord, help us live for Your glory no matter what!

Mark 11:25-26 And when ye stand praying, forgive, if ye have ought against any: that your Father also which is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses.

But if ye do not forgive, neither will your Father which is in heaven forgive your trespasses.

Day by Day by Grace

Bob Hoekstra

December 25, 2017

A Biblical Example of Spirit-led Praying

For this reason we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to ask that you may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding; that you may have a walk worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing Him. (Colossians 1:9-10a)

As we have seen, the Lord calls us in various ways to pray without ceasing. We are to engage every issue of life every day in every way through Spirit-led prayer: "Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit" (Ephesians 6:18). In addition to this extensive call to prayer, the word of God also gives us heavenly insight concerning the general content of our prayers. Our next two meditations reflect this by offering a biblical example of Spirit-led praying.

The Apostle Paul prayed consistently for the believers at Colosse. "We…do not cease to pray for you." God's will was the primary issue about which the Holy Spirit impressed Paul to pray: "to ask that you may be filled with the knowledge of His will." Such praying will ultimately lead people into the word of God, where the will of God is revealed. "This is the will of God, your sanctification…in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you" (1 Thessalonians 4:3; 5:18). Truly understanding God's will requires heavenly insight: "in all wisdom and spiritual understanding." Of course, this is the ministry of the Holy Spirit. "When He, the Spirit of truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth" (John 16:13).

The Lord does not inform us of His will merely for our curiosity. Knowing God's will is to lead to living God's will: "that you may have a walk worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing Him." Our Lord desires that we walk in a manner appropriate for identifying with Him and His great gospel of grace. "Only let your conduct be worthy of the gospel of Christ" (Philippians 1:27). He wants us to be interested in what pleases Him, not what pleases self or the world: "proving what is acceptable [well-pleasing] to the Lord" (Ephesians 5:10). The Lord wants to work in us the heart seen in David's Messianic confession. "I delight to do Your will, O my God, and Your law is within my heart" (Psalm 40:8). Bringing the will of God into the heart of man is what the new covenant of grace accomplishes. "I will make a new covenant …I will put My law in their minds, and write it on their hearts…who also made us sufficient as ministers [servants] of the new covenant" (Jeremiah 31:31, 33 and 2 Corinthians 3:6). Living in prayerful dependence upon the grace of God will make us true "servants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart" (Ephesians 6:6).

Dear Lord, I want to be fully controlled by Your will, pleasing You in every way. From Your word, grant me Holy Spirit insight into Your will. Teach me to pray in this Spirit-led manner, that Your grace might lead me to do Your will from deep within my heart.

Daily Promises

Blue Letter Bible

December 24, 2017

Him that overcometh will I make a pillar in the temple of my God, and he shall go no more out: and I will write upon him the name of my God, and the name of the city of my God, [which is] new Jerusalem, which cometh down out of heaven from my God: and [I will write upon him] my new name. (Revelation 3:12)

Believe in the risen Lord of Hosts and you shall evermore taste the gifts of the heavenly throne. Stand firm in Christ 'til that final day and you shall be as a pillar in His heavenly kingdom. Even now, those who believe are given the glorious calling to be a part of the holy house of the Lord. Christ is our chief cornerstone and may we ever be built upon His foundation.

Daily Thoughts December 24, 2017

Rejoicing always!!!

Matthew 5:10-12  Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness' sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake.

Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you. 

Daily Thoughts December 23, 2017

Some thoughts on denial

Is it not denying Christ to follow the world in Pagan worldly traditions?

Are we not called to deny ourselves for Christ instead?

Matthew 10:33  But whosoever shall DENY me before men, him will I also deny before my Father which is in heaven.

Matthew 16:24  Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him DENY HIMSELF, and take up his cross, and follow me.

Christmas is coming!

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(Arthur Pink)

"Thus says the Lord: Do not learn the ways of the heathen...for the CUSTOMS of the people are vain." Jeremiah 10:1-3

Christmas is coming! Quite so--but what is "Christmas?" Does not the very term itself denote it's source, "Christ-mass." It is of Roman origin, brought over from paganism.

"But," says someone, "Christmas is the time when we commemorate the Savior's birth." It is? And who authorized such commemoration? Certainly God did not. The Redeemer bade His disciples to "remember" Him in His death--but there is not a word in Scripture, from Genesis to Revelation, which tells us to celebrate His birth. Moreover, who knows when, in what month, He was born? The Bible is silent thereon.

And WHO is it that celebrates "Christmas?" The whole "civilized world." Millions who make no profession of faith in the blood of the Lamb, who "despise and reject Him". We would ask: Is it fitting that Christ's friends should unite with His enemies in a worldly round of fleshly gratification? Does any true believer really think that He whom the world cast out, is either pleased or glorified by such participation in the world's joys? Truly, the customs of the people are vain! It is written, "You shall not follow a multitude to do evil." Exodus 23:2

Some will argue for the "keeping of Christmas" on the ground of "giving the kiddies a good time." But why do this under the cloak of honoring the Savior's birth? Why is it necessary to drag in His holy name in connection with what takes place at that season of carnal jollification?

There are those who do abstain from some of the grosser carnalities of the "festive season"--yet are they nevertheless in cruel bondage to the prevailing custom of "Christmas".

In the sight of God, the circus and the theater are far less obnoxious than the "Christmas celebration" of Romish and Protestant "churches." Why? Because the latter are done under the cover of the holy name of Christ--the former are not.

"You shall not follow a multitude to do evil." Ah, it is an easy thing to float with the tide of popular opinion; but it takes much grace, diligently sought from God, to swim against it. Yet that is what the heir of Heaven is called on to do: "Do not be conformed to this world"--to deny self, take up the cross, and follow a rejected Christ.

Our final word is to the pastors. To you the Word of the Lord is, "You should be an example to the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity" (1 Timothy 4:12). Is it not true, that the most corrupt "churches" you know of, where almost every fundamental of the faith is denied--will have their "Christmas celebrations?" Will you imitate them? Seek grace to firmly but lovingly set God's truth on this subject before your people, and announce that you can have no part in following Pagan, Romish, and worldly customs!

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Daily Promises

Blue Letter Bible

December 23, 2017

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

Trust ever upon the mercy, goodness, and overwhelming sovereign power of the Lord's might. He will always save His people in their day of trial and He will always keep His children from final judgment. Rejoice, then, in His majesty, for He is your God and you are His people!

Daily Thoughts December 22, 2017

Psalm 40:5  Many, O LORD my God, are thy wonderful works which thou hast done, and thy thoughts which are to us-ward: they cannot be reckoned up in order unto thee: if I would declare and speak of them, they are more than can be numbered.

Superstitious regard for times and seasons

  ~  ~  ~  ~

(Charles Spurgeon)

"See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the basic principles of this world, rather than on Christ." Colossians 2:8

We have no superstitious regard for times and seasons.

Certainly we do not believe in the present ecclesiastical arrangement called Christmas. First, because we do not believe in the mass at all--but abhor it, whether it is said in Latin or in English. And, secondly, because we find no Scriptural warrant whatever for observing any day as the birthday of the Savior. Consequently, its observance is a superstition, because not of divine authority.

Superstition has fixed most positively the day of our Savior's birth, although there is no possibility of discovering when it occurred. We venture to assert, that if there is any day in the year, of which we may be pretty sure that it was not the day on which the Savior was born--it is the twenty fifth of December.

Probably the fact is that the 'holy days' were arranged to fit in with heathen festivals.

There are those who, on December 25th, will pretend to exhibit joy in the remembrance of our Savior's birth--but they will not seek their pleasure in the Savior. Joy in Immanuel would be a poor sort of mirth to them. In this country, too often, if one were unaware of the name--one might believe the Christmas festival to be a feast of Bacchus, certainly not a commemoration of the Divine birth.

When it can be proved that the observance of Christmas and other Popish festivals were ever instituted by a divine statute--then we also will attend to them, but not until then. It is as much our duty to reject the traditions of men--as to observe the commandments of the Lord.

Those who follow the custom of observing Christmas--do not follow the Bible, but pagan ceremonies.

How absurd to think that we could celebrate the birth of Christ, in the spirit of the world--with a Jack Frost clown, a deceptively worldly Santa Claus, and a mixed program of sacred truth with fun, deception, and fiction. If is is possible to honor Christ in the giving of gifts--I cannot see how, while the gift, giver, and recipient are all in the spirit of the world. The Catholics may have their Christmas one day in 365, but we have a Christ gift the entire year!

Since it is lawful, and even laudable, to meditate upon the incarnation of the Lord upon any day in the year--then it cannot be in the power of other men's superstitions to render such a meditation improper for today. Not regarding the day--let us, nevertheless, give God thanks for the gift of His dear Son.

   ~  ~  ~  ~

Daily Promises

Blue Letter Bible

December 22, 2017

Many [are] the afflictions of the righteous: but the LORD delivereth him out of them all. (Psalm 34:19)

Though affliction be the promise to the sons of God and though suffering fills their path on this earth, still does the Lord promise deliverance. Still does the Lord promise comfort and still does the Lord promise salvation. And O what a deliverance-what a comfort-what a salvation! For but a moment's trifling pain, what rose jewel is bought the believer! Glory eternal! Love unceasing! Joy unquenchable! For the merest pinprick's bother, the believer is given all. Now rejoice! Take up your heavy cross made weightless by the sustaining power of God, and follow unto the way everlasting!

Daily Thoughts December 21, 2017

Mark 2:17  When Jesus heard it, he saith unto them, They that are whole have no need of the physician, but they that are sick: I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.

How much time is wasted!

  ~  ~  ~  ~

(Elizabeth Hasell)

"The time is short!" 1 Corinthians 7:29

How valuable is time! God has given it to us only minute by minute--to show us how precious a thing it is that He grants in these small drops.

How soon is time over! How short is the longest life! And yet time is given to prepare for eternity! As we spend our time--so shall we spend eternity! The question "Where shall I spend eternity?" must be decided in time. When eternity begins, it will be too late.

Time is given us to serve the Lord in.

Time is given us to repent in and to believe the gospel.

Time is given us to do our duty in our station.

Time is given us to do good to others.

How much time is wasted! Idle gossip from house to house, too much attention to dress, and foolish reading--are so many things to waste precious time!

But there is one idea I would like you to have, one thought that I trust the Spirit may write and keep in all our hearts--for Satan and the world would wish us to think far otherwise. This is it: Time is given us to prepare for eternity! I am answerable to God for my use or abuse of time.

Let us pray to God to give us grace to spend our time in His service, in doing our duty in our day and generation, and in preparing for the life to come. Then, when time shall be over, we shall enter upon a glorious eternity through Christ our Lord.

The ungodly and the careless will then wish, when wishing will be vain--that they had in like manner devoted their time to God. What would lost sinners give at the last, for one short day! Oh, then, be wise now. Be wise in time. Consider your ways, and prepare for a life that shall never end!

"So teach us to number our days--that we may get a heart of wisdom!" Psalm 90:12

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Daily Promises

Blue Letter Bible

December 21, 2017

Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again. (Luke 6:38)

By the degree of generosity of our hearts, so will the blessings of God be poured out upon us. When we give much, much is offered in return. Yet, if we offer little to those around us, we will receive fewer blessings from the Father. The Lord desires to shower His children with all His abundant and wonderful blessings! May we bear the same attitude toward those around us. May we abound in lovingkindness and generosity for those less fortunate.

Daily Thoughts December 20, 2017

Being separate from the world!

II Corinthians 6:17-18  Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you,

And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.

She left her heart behind her!

  ~  ~  ~  ~

(J.C. Ryle, "The Gospel of Luke" 1858)

"Remember Lot's wife!" Luke 17:32

We should observe in these verses--what a solemn warning our Lord gives us against unsound profession.

Lot's wife went far in religious profession. She was the wife of a "righteous man." She was connected through him with Abraham, the father of the faithful. She fled with her husband from Sodom, in the day when he escaped for his life by God's command.

But Lot's wife was not really like her husband. Though she fled with him--she left her heart behind her! She willfully disobeyed the strict injunction which the angel had laid upon her. She looked back towards Sodom--and was at once struck dead! She was turned into a pillar of salt, and perished in her sins! Remember her--says our Lord, "Remember Lot's wife!"

Lot's wife is meant to be a beacon and a warning to all professing Christians. It may be feared that many will be found like her, in the day of Christ's second coming. There are many in the present day, who go a certain length in religion. They speak the "language of Canaan." They use all the outward ordinances of religion. But all this time, their souls are not right in the sight of God. The world is in their hearts--and their hearts are in the world. And by and bye, in the day of sifting--their unsoundness will be exposed. Their Christianity will prove rotten at the core! The case of Lot's wife will not stand alone.

Let us remember Lot's wife, and resolve to be real in our religion. Let us never rest until we have the true grace of God in our hearts--and have no desire to look back to the world.

   ~  ~  ~  ~

Daily Promises

Blue Letter Bible

December 20, 2017

Who shall also confirm you unto the end, [that ye may be] blameless in the day of our Lord Jesus Christ. (1 Corinthians 1:8)

Fear not the wickedness of your own inclinations, O believer, for Christ will ever sustain you in spite of your weakness! Trust in Him. Lean on His might. Throw yourself into the redemptive mercy of His hands and seek not the power to remain of your own might. Have faith in the Lord for He shall save you in that final day!

Daily Thoughts December 19, 2017

Holding fast to Bible doctrines!

II Timothy 1:12-13  For the which cause I also suffer these things: nevertheless I am not ashamed: for I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that he is able to keep that which I have committed unto him against that day.

Hold fast the form of sound words, which thou hast heard of me, in faith and love which is in Christ Jesus.

The queen of the Christian graces!

  ~  ~  ~  ~

(J.C. Ryle, "The Gospel of Luke" 1858)

"Everyone who exalts himself--will be humbled; and he who humbles himself--will be exalted." Luke 14:11

Humility may well be called the queen of the Christian graces. To know our own sinfulness and weakness, and to feel our need of Christ--is the start of saving religion.

Humility is a grace which has always been a distinguishing feature in the character of the holiest saints in every age. Abraham and Moses and Job and David and Daniel and Paul--were all eminently humble men.

Above all, humility is a grace within the reach of every true Christian. All converted people should work to adorn the doctrine they profess, with humility. If they can do nothing else--they can strive to be humble.

Do you want to know the root and spring of humility?

One word describes it. The root of humility is right knowledge.

The person . . .

  who really knows himself, and his own heart,

  who knows God, and His infinite majesty and holiness,

  who knows Christ, and the price at which he was redeemed

--that person will never be a proud person.

He will count himself, like Jacob, unworthy of the least of all God's mercies. He will say of himself, like Job, "I am vile!" He will cry, like Paul, "I am the chief of sinners." He will consider others better than himself. Philippians 2:3

Ignorance, nothing but sheer ignorance--ignorance of self, of God, and of Christ--is the real secret of pride.

From that miserable self-ignorance, may we daily pray to be delivered.

The wise person knows himself--and will find nothing within to make him proud.

   ~  ~  ~  ~

Daily Promises

Blue Letter Bible

December 19, 2017

[[[A Psalm] of David.]] The LORD [is] my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the LORD [is] the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid? (Psalm 27:1)

The Lord is ever with the child of His right hand. Mercy, protection, grace, and love are ever the believer's company. By the precious blood of Christ, we are made partakers of the heavenly promise. Hide yourself in Christ, O believer, and embrace the true rest He so lovingly grants His children! Rest and do good!

Daily Thoughts December 18, 2017

I Timothy 2:5-6  For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus;

Who gave himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time.

And then He turns the picture!

  ~  ~  ~  ~

(J.C. Ryle, "The Gospel of Luke" 1858)

"He told them this parable: The ground of a certain rich man produced a good crop. He thought to himself, 'What shall I do? I have no place to store my crops!' Then he said, 'This is what I will do. I will tear down my barns and build bigger ones, and there I will store all my grain and my goods. And I will say to myself: You have plenty of good things laid up for many years. Take life easy--eat, drink and be merry!'

But God said to him, 'You fool! This very night your life will be demanded from you. Then who will get what you have prepared for yourself?'

This is how it will be with anyone who stores up treasure for himself--but is not rich toward God." Luke 12:16-21

Let us mark in these verses--what a withering exposure our Lord makes of the folly of worldly-mindedness. He draws the picture of a rich man of the world, whose mind is wholly set on earthly things. He paints him scheming and planning about his property, as if he was master of his own life, and had but to say, "I will do a thing"--and it would be done.

And then He turns the picture--and shows us God requiring the worldling's soul, and asking the heart-searching question, "You fool! This very night your life will be demanded from you. Then who will get what you have prepared for yourself?"

"Folly," he bids us to learn--nothing less than "folly," is the right word by which to describe the conduct of the man who thinks of nothing but his money. The man who "stores up treasure for himself--but is not rich toward God"--is the man whom God declares to be a fool!

It is a solemn thought, that the character which Jesus brings before us in this parable, is far from being uncommon. Thousands in every age of the world have lived continually doing the very things which are here condemned! Thousands are doing them at this very day! They are laying up treasure upon earth--and thinking of nothing but how to increase it. They are continually adding to their hoards, as if they were to enjoy them forever--and as if there was no death, no judgment, and no world to come!

And yet these are the men who are called clever, and prudent and wise! These are the men who are commended, and flattered and held up to admiration! Truly the Lord does not see, as man sees! The Lord declares that rich men who live only for this world, are utter fools!

Let us pray for rich men. Their souls are in great danger!

"Heaven," said a great man on his death-bed, "is a place to which few kings and rich men come."

Even when converted, the rich carry a great weight, and run the race to Heaven under great disadvantages. The possession of money has a most hardening effect upon the conscience. We never know what we may do--if we were to become rich. "The love of money is the root of all evil. While some have coveted after it, they have erred from the faith and pierced themselves through with many sorrows." 1 Timothy 6:10

Poverty has many disadvantages--but riches destroy far more souls than poverty!

   ~  ~  ~  ~

Morning Devotional December 17, 2017

Joshua 24:14-15

“Now therefore fear the Lord, and serve him in sincerity and in truth: and put away the gods which your fathers served on the other side of the flood, and in Egypt; and serve ye the Lord. And if it seem evil unto you to serve the Lord, choose you this day whom ye will serve; whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the flood, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell: but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.”

In Joshua's day we read of there being a presence of the gods that were worshiped before the flood. We read of where the people were worshiping the gods of Egypt and the gods of the people who possessed the Promised Land before God turned it over to Israel. God had given them bounty and prospered them. He protected them through their journey in the Wilderness. He had permitted them to conquer the giants in the land He gave them. All God asked of them was for them to serve Him. Yet, they still clung to false gods. False gods that could do know thing for them. False gods that demanded wickedness from them. False gods that taught false doctrine and lies. While God taught truth and righteousness.

We see so many of God's people today following after false gods. Whether it be the idols we make of our possessions or of our favorite activities to our own ideas on how to worship God Himself. God made it very clear in His Word what He expects from His people. Over and over again, He tells us to follow Him. We are told that if we love Him we will follow His commandments. But do we? Do we love our Lord and Savior as much as we claim? Do we love Him enough to drop everything we are doing and follow Him?

Can we truly say like Joshua “but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.”

Praise ye the Lord!!!

Stephen McCool Sr.

Sovereign Grace Missionary Baptist Church

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

1217 Dillon Texarkana, Texas 75501

December 17, 2017          

 Newsletter Number 649

Brother Randy Johnson, Pastor                   Brother James Thomas, Song Leader

Pastor E-Mail: pastor@sgmbaptist.com                                          Web Site: www.sgmbaptist.com

“A Church Seeking To Please God In Prayer, Song, Preaching, And Worship.”

Please Join Us As We 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,  Johnnie Stephens, Alecia Stephens, and children, Frankie Baldridge and daughter, Buckie Thompson, Frank & Sonya Trusty, Frank & Dawana Reigel, Andrew Preston, Larry & Martha Mollette and Her Family, Tyrell Loyd, Bonnie, Ted O'Bonion, Larry Mollette II & Family, Kerry Adcock, Kim Poole, Danny & Nita Mollette, The Muncy Family, Lee & Mary Mollette, Wendell Henderson, Joshua Kidd, Matthew Kidd, Ronnie and Sarah Henderson, Ronnie Henderson Jr. & Children, Ricky Henderson and Family, Jacie Henderson, Velma Hammond, Charles, Don Hammond and Families, Vickie Adkins, Archie Griffin, Donna Johnson, James and Luann Reynolds, Timothy Fails, Nathan Fails, Jacob Ramsey, Jerry Hughes, Pastor G. L. Burr, Melody Carr, Janie Capps, Linda Hughes, Donna Jones, Gina, Brother Kelley and Sister Hinson, The Harris Family, Teresa Bookout, Little Titan Thomas (Trent and Tiffane Thomas child), James – Diane and Brooke Thomas, Jace Fails, Steve Sparks, Sister Ann McSwain, Elaine Sparks, James daughter’s mother-in-law, David Leman, Danny Hammond,  Brother Curtis Pugh, Brother Dan Sullivan the work in Thailand, Brother Raul and the work in Romania, Bro. Sergey Mochalov and the Churches in Russia.

A Thought From our Pastor:

Worship God For His Gift Of Salvation.

 Psalms 95:6-7 “O come, let us worship and bow down: let us kneel before the LORD our maker…For he is our God; and we are the people of his pasture, and the sheep of his hand. To day if ye will hear his voice,”

As we read these verses, or the Chapter we find the Psalmist is singing a song of praise to God. This is mostly what the Psalms is, a book of praise to God. We see the words “O come, let us worship and bow down: let us kneel before the LORD our maker” Let us kneel down before our Lord and worship Him because all that He has done for us, if you are a Christian. In our time we find so much false worship of God, in fact if you listen to them you will see that it is not a worship of God but a worship of man worshiping them selves and man. That is exactly what Paul warned us of in Romans 1:21-23 “Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened...Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools...And changed the glory of the uncorruptible God into an image made like to corruptible man, and to birds, and fourfooted beasts, and creeping things.” If you do not believe in Election, if you do not believe that the Holy Spirit convicts the worthless and total depraved heart, if you do not believe that the blood of Jesus washes away all our sins, then you do not have anything to praise God for in your salvation. If you listen to what the Arminian preacher of today has to say you will understand why they praise themselves and not God. Why praise God if you have to labor for what Jesus Christ gives. Jesus promised that we would have rest from our labors in Him. “Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:28 how can you have rest if you are laboring for a salvation that does not exist. Jesus went on to warn us, “Labour not for the meat which perisheth, but for that meat which endureth unto everlasting life, which the Son of man shall give unto you: for him hath God the Father sealed.” John 6:27 If Jesus GIVES us eternal life then what are people laboring for? And if people are “laboring” for salvation then what exactly did The Father “seal”? In the Psalm God is speaking of the worship we owe Him, and we owe it to Him for the Gift of salvation. James wrote in James 2:18 “Yea, a man may say, Thou hast faith, and I have works: shew me thy faith without thy works, and I will shew thee my faith by my works.” In this “very misunderstood scripture” it actually says we work because of the salvation God gave to us, not for the salvation. We do not labor for the gift of salvation, why would we? We praise God for our salvation in our works because He has saved us from eternal damnation. People that earn their own salvation have no reason to praise and worship God. If you go out and buy yourself a gift, are you going to praise me for it, no you are not. Why would you, just as you will not praise God for a salvation you had to labor for. But to us who are saved by Gods grace, and Jesus labor in His sacrifice, and the work of the Holy Spirit, we have much to praise God for. And it should be a routine in our live to worship God. We should kneel before the very God that gave us this gift and never ever forsake the assembling of ourselves together in God houses. Our life should be to worship God, attend church services, and laboring daily for the Lord. That is our glory to God, and the glory He receives through us because of the sacrifice of His Son Jesus Christ. As Christians, our life is not about us, and what we accomplish, it is about our service and worship of God. James did also remind us of these words, “Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone.” James 2:17 Is your faith living or dead? How is your worship of God? How is your living of the scriptures? How is your praise of the very God that gave you eternal righteousness?  True salvation is yours if “To day if ye will hear his voice” but only if you hear His voice. “And the Spirit and the bride say, Come. And let him that heareth say, Come. And let him that is athirst come. And whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely.” Revelation 22:17

Perhaps, While We Are Admiring Our Gourd:

By John Newton

   We are in the Lord's school—the school of the cross. His daily providential dispensations are suited to wean our attachment from everything here on earth—and to convince us that this world cannot be our rest, for it is polluted. Our roses grow on thorns; our honey brings a sting. Frequently our sharpest trials—spring from our choicest comforts. Perhaps, while we are admiring our gourd—a worm is secretly preying upon its root! As every bitter thing is sweetened to a believer—so there is some bitterness mingled with every sweet thing. This is wisely and mercifully ordered by our heavenly Father. It is necessary. With such hearts an we have, and in such a world as we live in—much discipline is needful to keep us from sleeping upon the enchanted ground.

   But the time is short. It will not always be thus. We shall soon be out of the reach of sin and temptation. Happy hour, when troubles and sorrows, hitherto our inseparable companions, shall flee away, to return no more! When Jesus, with joy and gladness shall come forth to meet us, and conduct us to our eternal home! Then we shall drink of the rivers of pleasure that are at His right hand—and our happiness shall be unspeakable, uninterrupted, without abatement, and without end!

What Is Most Needed Today:

By Arthur Pink

What is needed today, is a scriptural setting forth of the character of God—

  His absolute sovereignty,

  His ineffable holiness,

  His inflexible justice,

  His unchanging veracity.

What is needed today, is a scriptural setting forth of the condition of the natural man—

  his total depravity,

  his spiritual insensibility,

  his inveterate hostility to God,

  the fact that he is "condemned already"

  and that the wrath of a sin-hating God

    is even now abiding upon him!

A better understanding of our depravity by nature—would humble us, and make us see our deep need of using the appointed means of grace.

He answers these many fears with a single golden sentence!

  ~  ~  ~  ~

(J.C. Ryle, "The Gospel of Luke" 1858)

"Fear not, little flock--it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom!" Luke 12:32

Let us mark what a gracious word of consolation this passage contains for all true believers. The Lord Jesus well knew the hearts of His disciples. He knew how ready they were to be filled with fears of every description:

  fears because of the fewness of their number,

  fears because of the multitude of their enemies,

  fears because of the many difficulties in their way,

  fears because of their sense of weakness and unworthiness.

He answers these many fears with a single golden sentence, "Fear not, little flock--it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom!"

Believers are a "little flock." They always have been, ever since the world began.

Professing Christians, have sometimes been very many.

Baptized people at the present day, are a great company.

But true Christians, have always been very few.

It is foolish to be surprised at this. It is vain to expect that it will be otherwise. Our Lord has plainly told us, "But small is the gate and narrow is the road that leads to life--and only a few find it." Matthew 7:14

All true believers have a glorious "kingdom" awaiting them! Here upon earth--they are often mocked, and ridiculed, and persecuted--and, like their Master, despised and rejected by men. But "the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed to us!" "When Christ, who is our life, shall appear--then shall you also appear with Him in glory!"

Believers are tenderly loved by God the Father. It is His good pleasure to give them the kingdom. He does not receive them grudgingly, unwillingly or coldly. He rejoices over them, as members of His beloved Son in whom He is well pleased. He regards them as His dear children in Christ. He sees no spot in them. Even now, when He looks down on them from Heaven, in the midst of their infirmities--He is well pleased. And hereafter, when presented before His glory--He will welcome them with exceeding joy! Jude 24

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Daily Promises

Blue Letter Bible

December 17, 2017

Fear thou not; for I [am] with thee: be not dismayed; for I [am] thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness. (Isaiah 41:10)

Ever will the Lord raise up His people from their troubles! Ever will He seek to heal their hurts! Ever will He redeem His people from wickedness! And ever will the Lord Almighty strengthen the resolve of His children that they might proclaim His mercies forever! Praise His name forever all you His people! Hallelujah!

Morning Devotional December 16, 2017

Job 40:1-2

“Moreover the Lord answered Job, and said, Shall he that contendeth with the Almighty instruct him? he that reproveth God, let him answer it.”

O what right do we have to question our Heavenly Father? How can we even think we can give Him instruction of any sort? God, the Creator of all things. God, the Lord and Savior of His elect people!!!

O what a sinful lot we are for thinking our ways are better than His. So sinful are His people it took the death, burial, and resurrection of His own Son to save us from our sins. It took God the Father offering His Son Jesus on the alter of sacrifice to atone for the sins that had us dead to Him.

God turned His back on His own Son as He suffered for the sins of a bunch of ungrateful wretches as us. O what love!!! O what compassion!!! O what a Savior!!!

O the love that our Lord and Savior bestowed upon His chosen people. Even knowing what a sorry lot we are He still loved us.

O child of God, where do you stand today? Are you following our Lord in all things? Are you seeking His will for you and your family? Follow Him!!! Stay in constant communion with our Heavenly Father. Seek His guidance then follow when He says follow.

Remember the love of God. Even in our deepest trials He is there. Even when we are down and out and everything and everyone seems against us, He is there. Loving us with an undying love. He is our only hope in this life filled with sin and disappointment. He is our Heavenly Father!!! He is our Lord and Savior!!! He is our Great Comforter!!!

Do we really think we know better than He?

Praise ye the Lord!!!

Stephen McCool Sr.

Daily Thoughts December 16, 2017

Let us praise the Lord for who He is!

Psalm 104 Bless the LORD, O my soul. O LORD my God, thou art very great; thou art clothed with honour and majesty.

Who coverest thyself with light as with a garment: who stretchest out the heavens like a curtain:

Who layeth the beams of his chambers in the waters: who maketh the clouds his chariot: who walketh upon the wings of the wind:

Who maketh his angels spirits; his ministers a flaming fire:

Who laid the foundations of the earth, that it should not be removed for ever.

Thou coveredst it with the deep as with a garment: the waters stood above the mountains.

At thy rebuke they fled; at the voice of thy thunder they hasted away.

They go up by the mountains; they go down by the valleys unto the place which thou hast founded for them.

Thou hast set a bound that they may not pass over; that they turn not again to cover the earth.

He sendeth the springs into the valleys, which run among the hills.

They give drink to every beast of the field: the wild asses quench their thirst.

By them shall the fowls of the heaven have their habitation, which sing among the branches.

He watereth the hills from his chambers: the earth is satisfied with the fruit of thy works.

He causeth the grass to grow for the cattle, and herb for the service of man: that he may bring forth food out of the earth;

And wine that maketh glad the heart of man, and oil to make his face to shine, and bread which strengtheneth man's heart.

Psa 104:16  The trees of the LORD are full of sap; the cedars of Lebanon, which he hath planted;

Where the birds make their nests: as for the stork, the fir trees are her house.

The high hills are a refuge for the wild goats; and the rocks for the conies.

He appointed the moon for seasons: the sun knoweth his going down.

Thou makest darkness, and it is night: wherein all the beasts of the forest do creep forth.

The young lions roar after their prey, and seek their meat from God.

The sun ariseth, they gather themselves together, and lay them down in their dens.

Man goeth forth unto his work and to his labour until the evening.

O LORD, how manifold are thy works! in wisdom hast thou made them all: the earth is full of thy riches.

So is this great and wide sea, wherein are things creeping innumerable, both small and great beasts.

There go the ships: there is that leviathan, whom thou hast made to play therein.

These wait all upon thee; that thou mayest give them their meat in due season.

That thou givest them they gather: thou openest thine hand, they are filled with good.

Thou hidest thy face, they are troubled: thou takest away their breath, they die, and return to their dust.

Thou sendest forth thy spirit, they are created: and thou renewest the face of the earth.

The glory of the LORD shall endure for ever: the LORD shall rejoice in his works.

He looketh on the earth, and it trembleth: he toucheth the hills, and they smoke.

I will sing unto the LORD as long as I live: I will sing praise to my God while I have my being.

My meditation of him shall be sweet: I will be glad in the LORD.

Let the sinners be consumed out of the earth, and let the wicked be no more. Bless thou the LORD, O my soul. Praise ye the LORD.

Let this little sentence be continually before the eyes of our minds!

  ~  ~  ~  ~

(J.C. Ryle)

"Martha, Martha," the Lord answered, "you are worried and upset about many things--but only one thing is needed!" Luke 10:41-42

Let us observe what a solemn rebuke our Lord Jesus Christ gave to His servant Martha. Like a wise physician--He saw the disease which was preying upon her, and at once applied the remedy. Like a tender parent--He exposed the fault into which His erring child had fallen, and did not spare the chastening which was required.

"Martha, Martha," He said, "you are worried and upset about many things--but only one thing is needed!" Faithful are the wounds of a friend! That little sentence was a precious balm indeed! It contained a volume of practical divinity in a few words!

"Only one thing is needed!" How true that saying! The longer we live in the world, the more true it will appear. The nearer we come to the grave, the more thoroughly we shall assent to it. Health, and money, and lands, and rank, and honors, and prosperity, are all well in their way. But they cannot be called needful. Without them thousands are happy in this world, and reach glory in the world to come. The "many things" which men and women are continually struggling for, are not really necessities. The grace of God which brings salvation, is the one thing needful.

Let this little sentence be continually before the eyes of our minds!

Let it check us when we are ready to murmur at earthly trials.

Let it strengthen us when we are tempted to deny our Master on account of persecution.

Let it caution us when we begin to think too much of the things of this world.

Let it quicken us when we are disposed to look back, like Lot's wife.

In all such seasons, let the words of our Lord ring in our ears like a trumpet, and bring us to a right mind! "Only one thing is needed!"

If Christ is ours--then we have all and abound!

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Daily Promises

Blue Letter Bible

December 16, 2017

The LORD [is] my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust; my buckler, and the horn of my salvation, [and] my high tower. (Psalm 18:2)

Strong is the defense of the Lord and great the might of His sword-arm! And ever is He able to grant you His protection! No danger shall threaten His people and forever shall He lend aid to His sons. Rejoice in the strength of your high tower! Rejoice in your soul's shelter! Praise His name forever!

Daily Thoughts December 15, 2017

Psalm 103  A Psalm of David. Bless the LORD, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless his holy name.

Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits:

Who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases;

Who redeemeth thy life from destruction; who crowneth thee with lovingkindness and tender mercies;

Who satisfieth thy mouth with good things; so that thy youth is renewed like the eagle's.

The LORD executeth righteousness and judgment for all that are oppressed.

He made known his ways unto Moses, his acts unto the children of Israel.

The LORD is merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and plenteous in mercy.

He will not always chide: neither will he keep his anger for ever.

He hath not dealt with us after our sins; nor rewarded us according to our iniquities.

For as the heaven is high above the earth, so great is his mercy toward them that fear him.

As far as the east is from the west, so far hath he removed our transgressions from us.

Like as a father pitieth his children, so the LORD pitieth them that fear him.

For he knoweth our frame; he remembereth that we are dust.

As for man, his days are as grass: as a flower of the field, so he flourisheth.

For the wind passeth over it, and it is gone; and the place thereof shall know it no more.

But the mercy of the LORD is from everlasting to everlasting upon them that fear him, and his righteousness unto children's children;

To such as keep his covenant, and to those that remember his commandments to do them.

The LORD hath prepared his throne in the heavens; and his kingdom ruleth over all.

Bless the LORD, ye his angels, that excel in strength, that do his commandments, hearkening unto the voice of his word.

Bless ye the LORD, all ye his hosts; ye ministers of his, that do his pleasure.

Bless the LORD, all his works in all places of his dominion: bless the LORD, O my soul.

Poison!

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(J.C. Ryle)

"But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made. She came to him and asked: Lord, don't You care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!" Luke 10:40

Let us observe what a snare to our souls the cares of this world may be--if allowed to take up too much attention. It is plain from the tone of the passage before us, that Martha allowed her anxiety to provide a suitable entertainment for the Lord, to carry her away. Her excessive zeal for temporal provisions--made her forget, for a time, the things of her soul.

She brought down on herself a solemn rebuke, and had to learn a lesson which probably made a lasting impression. Alas! how great a matter is kindled by a little fire! The beginning of all this, was a little over-anxiety about the innocent household affairs of this world!

The fault of Martha should be a perpetual warning to all Christians. If we desire to grow in grace, and to enjoy soul-prosperity--then we must beware of the cares of this world. Unless we watch and pray, they will insensibly eat up our spirituality, and bring leanness on our souls.

It is not open sin, or flagrant breaches of God's commandments alone, which lead men to eternal ruin. It is far more frequently an excessive attention to things which are in themselves lawful. It seems so right to provide for our own! It seems so proper to attend to the duties of our station! It is just here that our danger lies! Our families, our business, our daily callings, our household affairs, our interaction with society--all, all may become snares to our hearts, and may draw us away from God. We may go down to the pit of Hell from the very midst of lawful things!

Let us take heed to ourselves in this matter. Let us watch our habits of mind jealously, lest we fall into sin unawares. If we love life--then we must hold the things of this world with a very loose hand, and beware of allowing anything to have the first place in our hearts, excepting God. Let us mentally write "Poison!" on all temporal good things. Used in moderation they are blessings, for which we ought to be thankful. But permitted to fill our minds, and trample upon holy things--they become an inevitable curse. Profits and pleasures are dearly purchased--if in order to obtain them we thrust aside eternity from our thoughts, abridge our Bible-reading, become careless hearers of the Gospel, and shorten our prayers.

A little earth upon the fire within us--will soon make that fire burn low.

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