Sola Scriptura!

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(J.C. Ryle)

Next to praying, there is nothing so important in practical religion as Bible-reading.
By reading that Book, we may learn . . .
   what to believe,
   what to be,
   what to do,
   how to live with comfort,
   and how to die in peace.

The Bible alone is "able to make a man wise unto salvation, through faith which is in Christ Jesus." 2 Timothy 3:15. It alone can . . .
   show you the way which leads to Heaven,
   teach you everything you need to know,
   point out everything you need to believe,
   and explain everything you need to do.
It alone can show you . . .
   what you are--a sinner,
   what God is--perfectly holy,
   the great giver of pardon, peace, and grace--Jesus Christ.

The Bible applied to the heart by the Holy Spirit, is the grand instrument by which souls are converted to God. In this way the Bible has worked moral miracles by thousands! It has made . . .
  drunkards become sober,
  immoral people become pure,
  thieves become honest, and
  violent people become meek!

The Bible has wholly altered the course of men's lives!
It has caused their old things to pass away--and made all their ways new.
It has taught worldly people--to seek first the kingdom of God.
It has taught lovers of pleasure--to become lovers of God.
It has changed the stream of men's affections--to run upwards instead of running downwards.
It has made men think of Heaven--instead of always thinking of earth.

The Bible can enable a man . . .
  to bear afflictions without murmuring, and say, "It is well."
  to look down into the grave, and say, "I fear no evil."
  to think on judgment and eternity, and not feel afraid.

Is a man drowsy in soul? The Bible can awaken him.

Is he mourning? The Bible can comfort him.

Is he erring? The Bible can restore him.

Is he weak? The Bible can strengthen him.

Is he in company? The Bible can keep him from evil.

Is he alone? The Bible can talk with him. (Proverbs 6:22)

All this the Bible can do for all believers;
for the least--as well as the greatest;
for the richest--as well as the poorest.
It has done it for thousands already--and is doing it for thousands every day!

It is in Scripture alone that infallibility resides. It is not in the Church. It is not in the Councils. It is not in ministers. It is only in the written Word.

All other books in the world, however good and useful in their way--are more or less defective. The more you look at them--the more you see their defects and blemishes. The Bible alone is absolutely perfect. From beginning to end, it is "the Word of God."

A man must make the Bible alone his rule. He must receive nothing, and believe nothing, which is not according to the Word. He must try all religious teaching by one simple test: Does it square with the Bible? What do the Scriptures say?
The only question is: Is the thing said Scriptural?
If it is--then it ought to be received and believed.
If it is not--then it ought to be refused and cast aside.

The churches which are most flourishing at this day, are churches which honor the Bible.
The nations which enjoy most moral light, are nations in which the Bible is most treasured.
The godliest families are Bible-reading families.
The holiest men and women are Bible-reading people.
These are simple facts which cannot be denied.

Every one who cares for his soul ought . . .
   to treasure the Bible highly,
   to study it regularly, and
   to make himself thoroughly acquainted with its contents.

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Daily Thoughts October 31, 2017

Psalm 28  A Psalm of David. Unto thee will I cry, O LORD my rock; be not silent to me: lest, if thou be silent to me, I become like them that go down into the pit.

Hear the voice of my supplications, when I cry unto thee, when I lift up my hands toward thy holy oracle.

Draw me not away with the wicked, and with the workers of iniquity, which speak peace to their neighbours, but mischief is in their hearts.

Give them according to their deeds, and according to the wickedness of their endeavours: give them after the work of their hands; render to them their desert.

Because they regard not the works of the LORD, nor the operation of his hands, he shall destroy them, and not build them up.

Blessed be the LORD, because he hath heard the voice of my supplications.

The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusted in him, and I am helped: therefore my heart greatly rejoiceth; and with my song will I praise him.

The LORD is their strength, and he is the saving strength of his anointed.

Save thy people, and bless thine inheritance: feed them also, and lift them up for ever.

Daily Thoughts October 30, 2017

Not self-rigtheousness, nor bragging upon oneself!

Luke 18:9-14  And he spake this parable unto certain which trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and despised others:

Two men went up into the temple to pray; the one a Pharisee, and the other a publican.

The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, God, I thank thee, that I am not as other men are, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this publican.

I fast twice in the week, I give tithes of all that I possess.

And the publican, standing afar off, would not lift up so much as his eyes unto heaven, but smote upon his breast, saying, God be merciful to me a sinner.

I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other: for every one that exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.

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 October 29, 2017            Newsletter Number 643 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: Are We Cannibal? John 6:54 “Whoso eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, hath eternal life; and I will raise him up at the last day.” If we must eat the flesh of Jesus Christ and drink His blood, then wouldn’t that make Christians Cannibals? I know some folks believe that the wafer, unleavened bread, or etc. that they take at the Lord’s Supper turns into the actual flesh and blood of Jesus Christ. However, the truth is, no it does not. We are Christians, saved by the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, and we have our sins pardoned by His blood. That is salvation as a whole to us if we believe in Him and all this. Salvation includes nothing else and anyone who says is does not have a scriptural leg to stand on. People are preaching things in the scriptures that are no there. We are Christians by faith in Jesus Christ, which was actually given to us by God’s Holy Spirit. But some people like to abuse the scriptures because they are lost, (the Lord calls it the blind leading the blind, Matthew 15:14 “Let them alone: they be blind leaders of the blind. And if the blind lead the blind, both shall fall into the ditch.”) and they lead them right into a fiery ditch called hell. We must search the scriptures to make sure what we hear is true or not. Folks, we are not cannibals, we do not actually eat the flesh and drink the blood of Jesus Christ. The unleavened bread and the wine is simply a metaphorical representation of His flesh and blood. The actual symbol here is a showing of His broken flesh and His spilt blood for us. The intaking of the wine and bread is to show us taking it in to keep living. It does not keep us living but metaphorically it shows that Jesus Christ is more than a name, more than a person, He is in us and He is the two main substances we need to stay alive. It reminds us that we need nothing else in this life but Jesus Christ in us. It also reminds us of what He did for us to bring about our salvation. He allowed His flesh to be broken and His blood to be spilt and death to take Him in order to bring life to all that God will save. Folks, some things are out of order and to actually believe that the bread and wine turn into the actual flesh and blood of Jesus Christ is gross to say the least. It is cannibalism at the least. The Lord’s Supper is the most valuable thing a Christian will do, and a church will do together. But it is simply a metaphorical reminder of what Jesus Christ done for us, and a reminder that He is all we need to live. It is also a reminder to us that He lives in us and keeps us living also. So as often as your church observes it, always attend and take of the Lord’s Supper. Always remember that Jesus Christ gave His flesh, and spilt His blood to give you salvation and eternal life with Him, and God. “For as often as ye eat this bread, and drink this cup, ye do shew the Lord's death till he come.” 1 Corinthians 11:26

WHAT IS GOD DOING?By Elder Curtis Pugh    God is doing many things right now as He brings this age to a close. He is allowing wicked men to take this world farther and farther down the path toward human ruin. In Daniel 4:35 the king said, “...all the inhabitants of the earth are reputed as nothing: and he doeth according to his will in the army of heaven, and among the inhabitants of the earth: and none can stay his hand, or say unto him, What doest thou?” Isaiah 46:9-10 records God's own words as follows: “Remember the former things of old: for I am God, and there is none else; I am God, and there is none like me,  Declaring the end from the beginning, and from ancient times the things that are not yet done, saying, My counsel shall stand, and I will do all my pleasure.” God is in control!    One thing God is doing is revealed in Acts 15:14: “Simeon hath declared how God at the first did visit the Gentiles, to take out of them a people for his name.” God began this work during the time of the apostles as stated by Simeon. Prior to that time, God had been dealing almost exclusively with the Jews. But during our time, as Paul said: “...blindness in part is happened to Israel, until the fulness of the Gentiles be come in,” (Romans 11:25). Not many Jews are being born from above during this age. Instead, the Jews have been blinded “in part” or partially. This blindness is “until” or temporary and will continue until all of God's elect Gentiles are saved. So then, God is at this present time “visiting the Gentiles, to take out of them a people for his name.” It is not God's purpose to save everyone. He is not trying to do that. If He were trying to save everybody, He would be a failure.    During our age “...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, (Revelaltion 22:17). “Whosoever will” may come. The problem is that because man's unregenerate mind is “enmity against God” (Romans 8:7), men will not come. So they cannot: their minds will not let them. They do not want to come to Christ. They may come to religion. They often want a fire escape to avoid their just punishment in eternal fire and so will do all sorts of religious things if somebody convinces them of an escape route by means of their own works. But they will not come to Christ in repentance and faith until and unless God draws them. That is why Jesus said, “No man can come to me, except the Father which hath sent me draw him: and I will raise him up at the last day,” (John 6:44). If you have truly come to Christ, give the glory to God for it is He that has drawn you to Him! If you have not come, Come! and welcome!

That is all they have to enjoyby Charles Spurgeon) "Turn away my eyes from beholding vanity!" Psalm 119:37 No Christian enjoys comfort—when his eyes are fixed on vanity.    I do not blame ungodly men for rushing to their pleasures. Why should I? Let them have their fill. That is all they have to enjoy! A godly wife who despaired of her husband's salvation, was always very kind to him, for she said, "I fear that this is the only world in which he will be happy—and therefore I have made up my mind to make him as happy as I can in it."    Christians must seek their delights in a higher sphere—than the insipid frivolities or sinful enjoyments of the world. Vain amusements are dangerous to renewed souls. It is when the Christian departs from God, becomes spiritually starved, and endeavors to feed on vanities—that the devil discovers his vantage hour. O for grace to sincerely pray, "Remove vanity and lies far from me!" Proverbs 30:8

Church News: On Sunday Nov 5, 2017 - Daylight Saving Time Ends You Clocks Will Fall Back One Hour.

At the feet of Jesus!

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(J.R. Miller, "At the Feet of Jesus" 1891)

As we know Martha wherever we see her--by her diligent, eager serving; so we know Mary by her posture at the feet of Jesus. Only three times she is seen in the Gospel story--and each time she is at her usual place.

First, we find her sitting at Christ's feet as a learner, eagerly listening to His words. "She had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord's feet, and listened to His teaching." Luke 10:39

At the feet of Jesus is the place of discipleship, where one learns the lessons the Master has to teach, where one's soul receives the blessings He has to give.

Every believer should learn the lesson that there can be no beautiful Christian character for him, no sweet influence pouring out from his life, no blessed ministry giving comfort and joy to others--unless he first sits at Christ's feet as a learner. He must receive--before he can give. This is a vital principle in Christian life. We can give out to others--only what God has first given to us.

You see a beautiful rose bathed in the summer sunshine and pouring forth its sweetness. "I would have my life like the rose!" you say. Yes, but where did the rose get its loveliness and its fragrance? Down out of the sky, did it not? It looked up and opened its heart--and the sun poured his warm beams into the flower's bosom. Out of the air at night came the gentle dew and crept into the flower's folds, and the beauty burst out and the sweetness flowed forth.

Would you have your life like the rose? You must commune with Christ. Your heart must receive the warmth of His love. You must take His words into your soul. He must fill you with His own blessed life. All you can bring to Christ is your own emptiness--the emptiness of penitence, of humility, of a thirsty soul.

A poet speaks of Mary's eyes as "homes of silent prayer." Her eyes of prayer told of a great heart-hunger. She did not talk in Christ's presence. She had nothing to say. She wanted Him to speak to her. And any word He spoke went down deep into her heart and became a blessing there, pouring its sweet influence through all her life.

Here we get the first lesson from Mary. You must sit at Christ's feet as a learner, as a receiver. Let Him teach you. Let Him pour His own life and love into your heart.

The first thing is, not what you shall do for Christ--but what Christ shall do for you; not what you shall give to Him--but what you shall receive from Him. Keep all the windows of your soul open toward Him, that the light from His face may shine into the very depths of your being. Take His words into your heart and ponder them with love and prayer--until they fill you with their own life and spirit.

Says Henry Drummond: "Ten minutes spent in Christ's presence every day, yes, two minutes, if it is face to face and heart to heart--will make all things different. Throughout the whole day, your actions, down to the last detail, will do homage to that early vision."

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Daily Promises

Blue Letter Bible
October 30, 2017

Though I walk in the midst of trouble, thou wilt revive me: thou shalt stretch forth thine hand against the wrath of mine enemies, and thy right hand shall save me. (Psalm 138:7)

Fear not the troubled paths of your life. Give no concern to the sundry evils that press in upon you. Give your entire focus to the pursuit of the interests of the heavenly kingdom. Ever will the Shepherd protect His sheep. Ever will the King of all watch over the ways of His subjects. O believer, be not dismayed for neither shall you faint in weariness nor fall to the missiles of the enemy. Trust in Almighty God and proclaim the peace of His hand! 

Morning Devotional October 29, 2017

Psalm 57:8-11

“Awake up, my glory; awake, psaltery and harp: I myself will awake early. I will praise thee, O Lord, among the people: I will sing unto thee among the nations. For thy mercy is great unto the heavens, and thy truth unto the clouds. Be thou exalted, O God, above the heavens: let thy glory be above all the earth.”


Praise ye the Lord!!!

Stephen McCool Sr.

Daily Thoughts October 29, 2017

This is the day that the Lord has made for us to praise the Lord!

Psalm 100:1-5 A Psalm of praise. Make a joyful noise unto the LORD, all ye lands.

Serve the LORD with gladness: come before his presence with singing.

Know ye that the LORD he is God: it is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture.

Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name.

For the LORD is good; his mercy is everlasting; and his truth endureth to all generations.

What a pavilion of comfort is this!

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(Octavius Winslow)

"As the Father has loved Me--so have I loved you!" John 15:9

Believer, you have a home in the heart of Jesus! What a pavilion of comfort is this--the love of Christ! To know that the affections of Jesus embrace and entwine around us, to be assured that He loves us each one as though we were the only one whom He loved--what a privilege and a bliss!

And yet so it is, Jesus loves you, cares for you, watches over and sympathizes with you--as if you were the only one whom He loved. "He loved me--and gave Himself for me!" Seek this individual consciousness of Christ's love, and you will be supremely happy!

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Daily Promises

Blue Letter Bible
October 29, 2017

Because he hath set his love upon me, therefore will I deliver him: I will set him on high, because he hath known my name. (Psalm 91:14)

God will protect His own. Love is the avenue in which we can minister to God and we can recognize who He is by acknowledging His name. At the same time it is God who rescues us and lifts us up higher than the dangers at hand. 

Morning Devotional October 28, 2017

Psalm 139:17-18

“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.”


O how we ought to praise our Lord from our waking to our laying down for all His many blessing!!! What an ungrateful people we are!!! What a shame is our failure to honor and praise the one who gives us the very breath we breathe. Fore without Him we have nothing!!!


Praise ye the Lord!!!

Stephen McCool Sr.

Daily Thoughts October 28, 2017

Lord, in the midst of all the wickedness, sins, trials and unfairness for those that do right and follow You nowadays, please help us to keep our eyes on You and give us on a daily basis the grace You promised so we always live for Your glory!

PSALM 19:14  LET THE WORDS OF MY MOUTH, AND THE MEDITATION OF MY HEART, BE ACCEPTABLE IN THY SIGHT, O LORD, MY STRENGTH, AND MY REDEEMER.

It cleaves to us like our skin!

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(J.C. Ryle)

"An argument started among the disciples as to which of them would be the greatest." Luke 9:46
"Then He said to them: He who is least among you all--he is the greatest." Luke 9:48

As astonishing as it may seem, this little company of fishermen and publicans was not beyond the plague of a self-seeking and prideful spirit. Such is the heart of man. There is something very instructive in this fact. It ought to sink down deeply into the heart of every Christian reader.

Of all sins, there is none against which we have such need to watch and pray, as pride.
It is a pestilence that walks in darkness--and a sickness that destroys at noon-day.

No sin is so deeply rooted in our nature as pride! It cleaves to us like our skin! Its roots never entirely die--they are ready, at any moment, to spring up, and exhibit a most pernicious vitality.

No sin is so senseless and deceitful as pride. It can wear the garb of humility itself. It can lurk in the hearts of the ignorant, the ungifted, and the poor--as well as in the minds of the great, the learned, and the rich. 

Of all creatures, none has so little right to be proud as man--and of all men, none ought to be so humble as the Christian!

Is it really true that we confess ourselves to be "miserable sinners," and daily debtors to mercy and grace? Are we the followers of Jesus, who was "meek and lowly of heart," and "made Himself nothing" for our sakes? Then let that same mind be in us, which was in Christ Jesus. Let us lay aside all proud thoughts and self-conceit. In lowliness of mind, let us esteem others better than ourselves. Let us be ready, on all occasions, to take the lowest place. And let the words of our Savior ring in our ears continually, "He who is least among you all--he is the greatest."

Let a prayer for humility form part of our daily supplications.

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Daily Promises

Blue Letter Bible
October 28, 2017

[[A Song of degrees.]] They that trust in the LORD [shall be] as mount Zion, [which] cannot be removed, [but] abideth for ever. (Psalm 125:1)

Take courage, O child of the Redeemer, for like Mount Zion, you are immovable in the Lord's strength! Why? Simply because, as all of Christ's gathered lambs, you have already come to His heavenly mount (Hebrews 12) and are already citizens of His heavenly city (Philippians 3:20). By faith we have come to such a place and so, by faith we are made immovable! Rejoice in your strength, and so, live as pleasing to the Lord!

Catch the little foxes!

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(J.C. Ryle)

"Catch the little foxes that ruin the vineyards; for our vines have tender grapes." Song of Songs 2:15

Resolve at once, by God's help, to break off every known sin, however small.

Look within, each one of you. Examine your own hearts. Do you see there any habit which you know is wrong in the sight of God? If you do, resolve at once to cast it off!

Nothing darkens the eyes of the mind so much, and deadens the conscience so surely--as an allowed sin. It may be a little one--but it is not any less dangerous.

A small leak will sink a great ship.
A small spark will kindle a great fire.
In the same way, a little allowed sin will ruin an immortal soul.

Take my advice, and never spare a little sin! Israel was commanded to kill every Canaanite, both great and small. Act on the same principle--and show no mercy to little sins.

You can be sure that no wicked man ever meant to be so wicked at his first beginnings. But he began with allowing himself some little sins, and that led on to something greater, and that in time produced something greater still, and thus he became the miserable being that he now is.

Brethren, resist sin in its beginnings. Some sins may look small and insignificant, but mind what I say--resist them, make no compromise, let no sin lodge quietly and undisturbed in your heart. Remember the Apostle's words, "A little yeast works through the whole batch of dough!" 1 Corinthians 5:6

Many a man could tell you with sorrow and shame, that he traces his ruin to the point I speak of--to giving way to sin in its beginnings. He began habits of deception and dishonesty in little things--and they grew on him. Step by step, he has gone on from bad to worse--until he has done things that at one time he would have thought impossible. At last he has lost his character, lost his peace, and almost lost his soul. He allowed a gap in the wall of his conscience, because it seemed a little one--and once allowed, that gap grew larger every day, until in time the whole wall came down!

Whatever the world may like to think--there are no little sins! All habits are formed by a succession of little acts, and the first little act is of mighty consequence.

The ax in the fable, only begged the trees to let him have one little piece of wood to make a handle--and he would never trouble them any more. He got it, and then he soon cut them all down!

The devil only wants to get the wedge of a little allowed sin into your heart--and you will soon be all his own.

It is a wise saying, "There is nothing small between us and God--for God is an infinite God."

There are two ways of coming down from the top of a ladder.
One is to jump down--and the other is to come down by the steps.
Both will lead you to the bottom.

Just so, there are two ways of going to Hell.
One is to walk into it with your eyes open--few people do that.
The other is to go down by the steps of little sins--and that way is only too common. Put up with a few little sins--and you will soon tolerate a few more. Even a heathen could say, "Who was ever content with only one sin?" If you put up with little sins, then your path in life will be worse and worse every year.

Jeremy Taylor very clearly described the progress of sin in a man:

First sin startles him,
then it becomes pleasing,
then it becomes easy,
then it becomes delightful,
then it becomes frequent,
then it becomes habitual,
then it becomes a way of life.
Then the man feels no guilt,
then he becomes obstinate,
and then he is damned!

Friends, if you don't want to come to this, remember the rule I give you this day--resolve at once to break off every known sin!

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Daily Promises

Blue Letter Bible
October 27, 2017

The eyes of the LORD [are] upon the righteous, and his ears [are open] unto their cry. (Psalm 34:15)

God recognized us. Often times we do not see any sign of God answering our petitions, yet He hears our cries and deals with them specifically in His own way. Though we might not be constantly thinking of God, we are always in His thoughts as He hears our requests for help. 

Daily Thoughts October 27, 2017

By God’s grace, I hope to be doing this always in times of trials and slander…. I surrender all to Jesus!

JOB 13:15  THOUGH HE SLAY ME, YET WILL I TRUST IN HIM: BUT I WILL MAINTAIN MINE OWN WAYS BEFORE HIM.

Daily Thoughts October 26, 2017

Brotherly love: Another gift received at salvation!

1 JOHN 3:14-16  WE KNOW THAT WE HAVE PASSED FROM DEATH UNTO LIFE, BECAUSE WE LOVE THE BRETHREN. HE THAT LOVETH NOT HIS BROTHER ABIDETH IN DEATH.

WHOSOEVER HATETH HIS BROTHER IS A MURDERER: AND YE KNOW THAT NO MURDERER HATH ETERNAL LIFE ABIDING IN HIM.

HEREBY PERCEIVE WE THE LOVE OF GOD, BECAUSE HE LAID DOWN HIS LIFE FOR US: AND WE OUGHT TO LAY DOWN OUR LIVES FOR THE BRETHREN.

The Bible is always a new book to those well acquainted with it!

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(Arthur Pink, "The Divine Inspiration of the Bible")

Although one may know, word for word, the entire contents of some chapter of Scripture; and although he may have taken the time to thoughtfully ponder every sentence therein--yet, on every subsequent occasion, provided one comes to it again in the spirit of humble inquiry, each fresh reading will reveal new gems never seen there before and new delights will be experienced never met with previously. The most familiar passages will yield as much refreshment at the thousandth perusal--as they did at the first!

The Bible has been likened to a fountain of living water--the fountain is ever the same, but the water is always fresh!

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Daily Promises

Blue Letter Bible
October 26, 2017

He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; He that overcometh shall not be hurt of the second death. (Revelation 2:11)

Follow Christ even unto your death and your reward shall be great! Life—and that eternal! Nevermore shall the sting of death be felt. Nevermore shall the wasting of the body be remembered. Life! Life! Life! To worship the Son forever, casting down glory upon glory at His feet—so is the beautiful destiny of all those who believe! So take heart in your faith and taste the true and everlasting life! 

All these things shall have no place in Heaven!

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(J.C. Ryle, "Shall We Know One Another in Heaven?" 1870)

I pity that man who never thinks about Heaven. I mean by "Heaven" the future dwelling-place of all true Christians, when the dead are raised, and the world has passed away. Cold and unfeeling must that heart be, which never gives a thought to that dwelling-place! Dull and earthly must that mind be, which never considers Heaven.

We may die any day. "In the midst of life, we are in death." We must all die sooner or later. The youngest, the fairest, the strongest, the cleverest--all must go down one day before the scythe of the King of Terrors. This world shall not go on for ever as it does now. Its affairs shall at last be wound up.

Now, what will Heaven be like? The question, no doubt, is a deep one, but there is nothing presumptuous in looking at it. The man who is about to sail for Australia or New Zealand as a settler, is naturally anxious to know something about his future home, its climate, its employments, its inhabitants, its ways, and its customs. All of these are subjects of deep interest to him.

In the same way, you are leaving the land of your nativity--and you are going to spend the rest of your life in a new world. It would be strange indeed if you did not desire information about your new abode.

Now surely, if we hope to dwell for ever in that "better country, even a heavenly one"--then we ought to seek all the knowledge we can get about it. Before we go to our eternal home--we should try to become acquainted with it.

Heaven is a prepared place for a prepared people. All who are found there, will be of one mind and of one experience:
 chosen by the same Father,
 washed in the same blood of atonement,
 and renewed by the same Spirit.

Universal and perfect holiness, love, and knowledge--will be the eternal law of the kingdom.

Heaven is the eternal presence of everything that can make a saint happy--and the eternal absence of everything that can cause sorrow. Sickness, and pain, and disease, and death, and wickedness, and poverty, and labor, and money, and care, and ignorance, and misunderstanding, and slander, and lying, and quarrels, and envies, and bad tempers, and infidelity, and superstition, and heresy, and schism, and wars, and fightings, and bloodshed, and murders, and law-suits--all, all these things shall have no place in Heaven! On earth, in this present time, they may live and flourish. In Heaven even their footprints shall not be known.

"Never again will they hunger; never again will they thirst. The sun will not beat upon them, nor any scorching heat. For the Lamb at the center of the throne will be their shepherd; He will lead them to springs of living water. And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes!" Revelation 7:16-17

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Daily Promises

Blue Letter Bible
October 25, 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. Therefore will not we fear, though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea; (Psalm 46:1-2)

So strong is our victorious Lord that ever more can we, His people, trust in His promise to protect us. Fear not, O believer, for even now is the kingdom of God visible by your faith! Take up your heavenly reign! Rejoice in your seat at the Father's throne! God will be your sturdy defense and never will the enemy's darts pierce your hide, so go forth proclaiming the Lord's victory in boldness. 

Daily Thoughts October 25, 2016

Love for our brothers and sisters in Christ is a testimony of our salvation. We are to love each other as Christ loves us. We are to look at each other, treat each other, pray that we see each other as Christ does by God’s grace. What a difference it would make if we always did this!

JOHN 13:34-35  A NEW COMMANDMENT I GIVE UNTO YOU, THAT YE LOVE ONE ANOTHER; AS I HAVE LOVED YOU, THAT YE ALSO LOVE ONE ANOTHER.  

BY THIS SHALL ALL MEN KNOW THAT YE ARE MY DISCIPLES, IF YE HAVE LOVE ONE TO ANOTHER.

Daily Thoughts October 24, 2017

Psalm 15:1-5 A Psalm of David. LORD, who shall abide in thy tabernacle? who shall dwell in thy holy hill?
He that walketh uprightly, and worketh righteousness, and speaketh the truth in his heart. 
He that backbiteth not with his tongue, nor doeth evil to his neighbour, nor taketh up a reproach against his neighbour.
In whose eyes a vile person is contemned; but he honoureth them that fear the LORD. He that sweareth to his own hurt, and changeth not.
He that putteth not out his money to usury, nor taketh reward against the innocent. He that doeth these things shall never be moved.

Divine punishment--or divine chastisement?

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(Arthur Pink)

There is a threefold distinction between divine punishment--and divine chastisement.

The first lies in the character in which God acts.
  In the former, God acts as Judge.
  In the latter, God acts as Father.

The second distinction lies in the recipients of each.
  The objects of the former, are His enemies.
  The objects of the latter, are His children.

A third distinction is seen in the design of each.
  The one is retributive--the other remedial.
  The one flows from His anger--the other flows from His love.

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Daily Promises

Blue Letter Bible
October 24, 2017

The LORD [is] the portion of mine inheritance and of my cup: thou maintainest my lot. (Psalm 16:5)

With the Lord being our portion and our cup, He becomes our sufficiency in both food and drink. The reference of the "lot" may either speak of the land that was granted or even how God is in control of everything-even our destiny. We also have the promise of a heavenly lot which Jesus talks about in John 14:2. 

In that moment we would fall into mischief and misery, if not into Hell!

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(James Smith, "The Evening Sacrifice; Or, A Help to Devotion" 1859)

"I have gone astray like a lost sheep--seek Your servant" Psalm 119:176

However far the Lord's people may wander from Him, they cannot forget His word or His gracious dealings with them. They remember the years of His leading and sustaining.

Like sheep--every one of us have a propensity to wander. We need keeping every moment. If it were possible for the Lord to take His eyes off of us but for one moment--in that moment we would fall into mischief and misery, if not into Hell. But the eyes of the Lord are upon the righteous, and His ears are open to their cry.

My soul, have you wandered from the Lord? Have you wandered from the green pastures of His Word? Have you wandered from the Church, which is His fold? Have you wandered from His throne of grace--or from His nail-pierced side? If so,
  your graces will wither,
  your comforts will die, and
  your profession will become a mere form.

Cry to the great Shepherd, cry mightily to Jesus, "Seek Your servant!" Blessed be His holy name--He will go out into the wilderness in search of every one of His lost sheep--and He will never return until He finds and restores it.

Jesus, Shepherd of my soul--seek me, and bring me back from all my wanderings. Let me feed and be bound with Your flock. Let me hear Your sweet voice calling me by name, and leading me home. May I never enjoy rest, but at Your side; nor feel at home, but with Your flock and family.

Tonight, O Savior, draw me near to Yourself. Soothe my perturbed spirit with the communications of Your grace and truth--and let me lie down conscious of my saving interest in You, of Your love to me, and of my safety through You. Nearer to You, O Jesus--draw me still nearer to You!

"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 can snatch them out of My hand." John 10:27-28

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Daily Promises

Blue Letter Bible
October 23, 2017

The fear of man bringeth a snare: but whoso putteth his trust in the LORD shall be safe. (Proverbs 29:25)

Man strives and toils and still his plans come to ruin. Not so with the Lord. Do not be overcome with anxiety for the concerns of the world for Christ has overcome it! There is safety in the hand of God for He reigns even now from heaven! Therefore rejoice! 

Daily Thoughts October 23, 2017

We are not worthy in and of ourselves. But when the Lord saves us, we become worthy in Him and are to walk in a manner worthy of our calling and election. We are to walk in the light, in the Lord who alone is worthy of all glory and honour and praises!

Matthew 10:38  And he that taketh not his cross, and followeth after me, is not WORTHY of me.

Romans 8:18  For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not WORTHY to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.

Colossians 1:10  That ye might walk WORTHY of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God;

II Thessalonians 1:11  Wherefore also we pray always for you, that our God would count you WORTHY of this calling, and fulfil all the good pleasure of his goodness, and the work of faith with power:

Revelation 4:11  Thou art WORTHY, O Lord, to receive glory and honour and power: for thou hast created all things, and for thy pleasure they are and were created.

O for a spirit of habitual prayer!

   ~  ~  ~  ~

(James Smith, "The Evening Sacrifice; Or, A Help to Devotion" 1859)

"But I call to God, and the LORD saves me. Evening, morning and noon I cry out in distress--and He hears my voice!" Psalm 55:16-17

The well taught Christian carries everything to God--and in so doing, obtains relief, enjoys peace, and grows in grace.
For all that we need--we should call upon God.
And from all that we fear--we should flee unto God.

At the close of every day, it is our mercy to call upon the Lord.
We must make confession of sin--and obtain pardon.
We must carry to Him our burdens--and obtain relief.
We must tell out before Him our needs--and obtain a supply.

Oh, how precious it is to go to the Lord at the close of each day, and tell Him all that has . . .
  vexed us,
  grieved us,
  cast us down, or
  disquieted our spirits!

And how blessed to go to him each morning, and seek grace to live holily and happily through the day!

Nor is it less blessed to have a few minutes with God at noon--breaking, as it were, the day in two, and keeping short accounts with God.

O for a spirit of habitual prayer, that at evening, and at morning, and at noon--we may pray, and cry aloud to God!

If we were more with the Lord in prayer, we would have . . .
  more strength to carry our crosses,
  more patience to bear our troubles,
  and more comfort amidst life's sorrows.

Holy Spirit, take up your residence in my heart as a Spirit of prayer, and lead me daily, hourly, yes, very often--to the mercy-seat. Let me find the hours of prayer to be precious seasons. And especially at eventide, when worn and exhausted with the toils and troubles of the day--let me find sweet solace and refreshment in pouring out my soul unto God.

Precious Lord Jesus, draw our souls to You evening by evening, and lead us into the presence of Your Father, that we may have sweet and hallowed fellowship with God! Let our devotions ascend as sweet incense to God.

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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 October 22, 2017            Newsletter Number 642 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: What Is Truth. John 17:17 “Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth.” This is the most absolute question man must ask themselves, especially if they are a Christian. The bible says a lot about the word TRUTH, but we need to seek and find the truth. We must first understand that man are liars, Satan is a liar, the father of lies, and man gets their lying form him. “Ye are of your father the devil, and the lusts of your father ye will do. “He was a murderer from the beginning, and abode not in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own: for he is a liar, and the father of it.” John 8:44 Therefore as Christians we must decide what truth is, however, in our search for it we must understand that the truth does not come from man. Unless a person is saved and taught of the Holy Spirit they will never know nor understand truth. Mankind teaches lies all the time as truth, but it is only lies. They confuse the truth in their own misunderstanding and believe it as truth. Mankind is always seeking truth to glorify themselves, so God said, “Who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator, who is blessed for ever.  Amen.” Romans 1:25 And God made sure there was an astounding “Amen” in there. If you look at the vast majority of what is called “Christianity” you will find they glorify man while belittling God to make their doctrine support their works rather than God’s grace. They even declare that Paul and James were not in context with each other to prove their lie. So, as we seek to hear, read, and understand truth, let us first understand where truth comes from. First, it is not from man, God said “…let God be true, but every man a liar...” Romans 3:4 Second, we must understand that God is truth, Jesus is truth “Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.” John 14:6 And we know that the Holy Spirit is truth “Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come.” John 16:13 and also note that “HE” will guide you into ALL truth. It is not man that is truth, except that the Holy Spirit is leading them to teach the truth. Is your teacher reading scriptures and teaching them, or is he out in left field teaching with man’s wisdom? Does he truly stay with the teaching of the scriptures or does he teach with his philosophy? Personally speaking, I see a lot of churches failing to use God’s word, especially on their signs. I see a lot of manmade slogans and not scripture. Now I’m not saying some of the slogans are “ok” at best, however why not God’s word? What saves sinners, slogans, hell houses, hell films, or the gospel? Jesus said, “And the gospel must first be published among all nations.” Mark 13:10 He does not mean first and then the philosophy of man but first and foremost. It is the Gospel that must be taught not man’s philosophy which includes everything other than the gospel, works, baptism, church membership, and etc. etc. etc. Churches must understand that their pastor’s wisdom and slogans might sound good and slick, but the gospel is what God saved sinned with. The gospel is truth, and only the gospel. "...how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures...And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures:” 1 Corinthians 15:3-4 not “the key to heaven is hanging on a nail” which is a total lie. Folks, it is truth, and as wise as slogans are God’s word is always truth no matter what. Also Jesus is the light, life, way, and everything you need to be saved, you do not need anything else. Everything else is changing the truth into a lie. Seek the truth, but it is only found in God’s Holy Word.

Idols are at once cast away:By Archibald Alexander When the mind is freed from the blindness of nature, and the eyes of the understanding opened, the light of the glorious gospel will shine into such a regenerated mind, revealing to it the beauties of holiness, and causing it to rejoice in the glory of God. To such a one Christ appears lovely--the chief among ten thousand, and He becomes the jewel of their hearts. Idols are at once cast away, and He as their rightful King is enthroned in their affections. Believers do not and cannot doubt of Christ's excellency and suitableness. His doctrines they humbly receive, and found their hopes of salvation on His faithful word alone.

Soul satisfaction... by Jonathan Edwards The enjoyment of God is the only happiness with which our souls can be satisfied. To go to heaven, fully to enjoy God, is infinitely better than the most pleasant accommodations here on earth. Earthly fathers and mothers, husbands, wives, children and earthly friends, are all 'shadows'. But God is the 'substance'. All earthly delights are but 'scattered beams'. But God is the sun. All earthly delights are but 'streams'. But God is the ocean.

A hard, proud, hollow religion.By Horatius Bonar Intimacy with God is the very essence of religion. The understanding of doctrine is one thing, and intimacy with God is another.  They ought always to go together; but they are often seen asunder; and, when there is the former without the latter, there is a hard, proud, hollow religion. Beware of mere opinions and speculations. They become idols. They nourish pride of intellect. They furnish no food to the soul. They make you sapless and heartless. Intimacy with God is the very essence of religion.

Church News: Last week I was in error, it was not Sister Dawana Reigel’s Birthday it was Brother Frank & Sister Dawana Reigel’s Anniversary. Sorry for the error. October 18th

Daily Promises

Blue Letter Bible
October 22, 2017

And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge; And to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness; And to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity. For if these things be in you, and abound, they make [you that ye shall] neither [be] barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. (2 Peter 1:5-8)

My Prayer: Gracious Lord, instill these moral principles in my heart. May these qualities be seen in me that others may know of Your wonderful character. Make me fruitful and useful for Your kingdom! For the only blessing that I seek, is to see You using me daily. 

Daily Thoughts October 22, 2017

No matter what is going in our life and around us, there is always ground to praise the Lord now and for eternity!

PSALM 7:17  I WILL PRAISE THE LORD ACCORDING TO HIS RIGHTEOUSNESS: AND WILL SING PRAISE TO THE NAME OF THE LORD MOST HIGH.

Morning Devotional October 22, 2017

Psalm 150

“Praise ye the Lord. Praise God in his sanctuary: praise him in the firmament of his power. Praise him for his mighty acts: praise him according to his excellent greatness. Praise him with the sound of the trumpet: praise him with the psaltery and harp. Praise him with the timbrel and dance: praise him with stringed instruments and organs. Praise him upon the loud cymbals: praise him upon the high sounding cymbals. Let every thing that hath breath praise the Lord. Praise ye the Lord.”


O what a glorious day our Lord has given us to praise Him!!!
As we enter into a new week let us rejoice and praise our Heavenly Father for all He has given us. Let us praise Him for the greatest gift ever given. Salvation by His marvelous grace through the faith He instill in us. What a glorious gift!!! What a love like no other!!! Praise God for His Sovereign Grace!!!
“O for a thousand tongues to sing
My great Redeemer’s praise,
The glories of my God and King,
The triumphs of His grace!”


Praise ye the Lord!!!

Our merciful, compassionate Christ!

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(J.C. Ryle)

"Being confident of this, that He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus!" Philippians 1:6
Let us take comfort in the thought that the Lord Jesus does not cast off His believing people because of failures and imperfections. He knows what they are.

He takes them, as the husband takes the wife--with all their blemishes and defects; and once joined to Him by faith, He will never leave them. He is a merciful and compassionate High-priest. It is His glory to pass over the transgressions of His people, and to cover their many sins.

He knew what they were before conversion--wicked, guilty, and defiled; yet He loved them. He knows what they will be after conversion--weak, erring, and frail; yet He loves them. He has undertaken to save them, notwithstanding all their shortcomings--and what He has undertaken, He will perform.

"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 can snatch them out of My hand." John 10:27-28

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Nestle in our Savior's arms!

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(J.R. Miller, "Daily Bible Readings in the Life of Christ" 1890)

"He took a little child and had him stand among them. Taking him in His arms," Mark 9:36

This picture of "Jesus with the little one in His arms" is very beautiful. In all the Bible there is scarcely another picture which so well represents the attitude both of the saved soul and of the Savior--in all Christian life.

Jesus takes the child in His arms--there is love, tenderness and protection.

The bosom is the place of warmth, of affection, of intimacy, of confidence.

The encircling arms--imply safety, support and shelter.

Jesus lifted up the child and held it in His arms--just so does He carry His people through this wilderness world! He does not merely tell them what path to travel--but He takes them on His shoulders, carrying not only their burdens--but themselves! Thus He bears them on through life and through death--to Heaven, where they shall forever be with Him!

Then look at the picture the other way--the child in the Savior's arms. The child's attitude speaks of trust, confidence, repose, peace, love, joy--just the feelings which belong to the true Christian. What a place the bosom of Christ is--in danger, in storm, in sorrow, in death! Shall we not likewise learn--to nestle in our Savior's arms in all our troublesome experiences? 

Daily Thoughts October 21, 2017

Psalm 37:34  Wait on the LORD, and keep his way, and he shall exalt thee to inherit the land: when the wicked are cut off, thou shalt see it.

Psalm 92:7  When the wicked spring as the grass, and when all the workers of iniquity do flourish; it is that they shall be destroyed for ever:

Proverbs 29:2  When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice: but when the wicked beareth rule, the people mourn.

Daily Promises

Blue Letter Bible
October 20, 2017

Turn you at my reproof: behold, I will pour out my spirit unto you, I will make known my words unto you. (Proverbs 1:23)

Trust in God. Turn to Him. Be of repentant heart. Put your faith in God and He will be your God and you will be His child. No more shall you stand at odds with Him as a hater of righteousness, but He will bring you to new life, calling you His son and clothing you in holy purity. How wonderful! 

Daily Thoughts October 20, 2017

We are saved by grace, but to please the Lord we still need to obey all those in authority over us, that includes pastors, but also parents, government, employer…. even it is not specified in this particular verse. The only exception is if they order us to sin against our Lord and Saviour.

HEBREWS 13:7  REMEMBER THEM WHICH HAVE THE RULE OVER YOU, WHO HAVE SPOKEN UNTO YOU THE WORD OF GOD: WHOSE FAITH FOLLOW, CONSIDERING THE END OF THEIR CONVERSATION.

Daily Thoughts October 19, 2017

Saving grace enables us to be bold in our faith and walk in perfect assurance no matter what the trials of life are. Sometimes we are overwhelmed, sometimes we fail, sometimes we are scared, sometimes we are weak, but there is always that faith and assurance the Lord upholds us in His hands and it is well with our soul!

II TIMOTHY 1:12  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.

JOB 13:15  THOUGH HE SLAY ME, YET WILL I TRUST IN HIM: BUT I WILL MAINTAIN MINE OWN WAYS BEFORE HIM.

Daily Thoughts October 18, 2017

By God’s grace, we keep on keeping on and it will be worth it all when we see Jesus face to face!

GALATIANS 6:9  AND LET US NOT BE WEARY IN WELL DOING: FOR IN DUE SEASON WE SHALL REAP, IF WE FAINT NOT.

The person and work of the Holy Spirit

   ~  ~  ~  ~

(J.C. Ryle, 1884)
"For if the trumpet makes an uncertain sound, who will prepare himself for battle?" 1 Corinthians 14:8

We need a more certain sound about the person and work of the Holy Spirit.

There is a great quantity of teaching, I am afraid, in which there is no place left for the Third Person of the Trinity. His presence in the hearts of professing Christians is taken for granted. They think that they possess Him as a matter of course--because they are baptized, or because they belong to the Church, or because they are communicants! In short, many would say, like the Ephesians of old, "We have not even heard that there is a Holy Spirit!" Acts 19:2

But surely this is not Apostolic teaching. People need to be told now as much as they were told eighteen centuries ago, that the fruits of the Spirit are the only evidence of having the Spirit, and that those fruits must be seen--that we must be . . .
  born of the Spirit,
  led by the Spirit,
  sanctified by the Spirit, and
  experience the operations of the Spirit.

"If anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ--he does not belong to Christ." Romans 8:9

There is far more heresy concerning the Holy Spirit in the present time, than most people suppose.

"Ask for the old paths, where the good way is--and walk in it. Then you will find rest for your souls." Jeremiah 6:16

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Daily Promises

Blue Letter Bible
October 18, 2017

And thine ears shall hear a word behind thee, saying, This [is] the way, walk ye in it, when ye turn to the right hand, and when ye turn to the left. (Isaiah 30:21)

My Prayer: Father, I am so grateful for all Your splendid majesty and mercy! Thank You for dying on the cross and suffering my consequences. Yet more than anything, thank You for conquering death that I may be with you forever and ever! Help me to keep focused on You. May I never look right or left, but continue to faithfully walk on Your holy path. Continue to guide me in all my ways! 

Old fossils unsuited to the present times!

   ~  ~  ~  ~

(J.C. Ryle, 1884)
"For if the trumpet makes an uncertain sound, who will prepare himself for battle?" 1 Corinthians 14:8

We need a more certain sound about the work and offices of our Lord Jesus Christ. Men nowadays will dwell exclusively on His prophetic office, the beauty of His personal character, the splendid example of His kindness, patience, condescension, purity, and self-denial. All this, however true, is only half the truth--and by far the least important half too.

The main thing about Christ, of which this age never hears enough, is . . .
  the atonement He made by His death,
  His vicarious sacrifice on the Cross,
  the redemption He obtained for man by His blood,
  His victory over the grave by His resurrection,
  His active life of intercession at God's right hand,
  and the absolute necessity of simple faith in Him.

These blessed truths are seldom made enough of in this day. They are either judiciously dropped as offensive--or coolly left in the background as old fossils unsuited to the present times! If there is not a vast amount of veiled heresy around us, I am greatly mistaken.

"Ask for the old paths, where the good way is--and walk in it. Then you will find rest for your souls." Jeremiah 6:16

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