Jacob The Heel Catcher - Spiritual Adultery
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The Miracle of God’s Word
Philippians 2:1
If there be therefore any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any bowels and mercies,
The word, “Consolation” refers to comfort and the word, “Comfort” refers to consolation, therefore the Lord is here attempting to get us as His people to see that His encouragement, comfort of love, fellowship of the Spirit, compassions and mercies are all found “In Christ.” As a Christian, we were immersed into Christ through faith in His death (Romans 6:3), and have the OPPORTUNITY to daily walk “In Him” (Colossians 2:6), but it doesn’t mean that this walk just happens automatically. This is what has been missed and has caused much division and unnecessary suffering for centuries.
Make sure you read Colossians 2:6, and you will see that only as our faith is IN what PLACED US IN Christ, will we be found walking “In Him”, and only there are these things here mentioned and ALL Grace experienced. Faith in the cross is the only faith that saved us and continues to be the only faith that God honors. When we move our faith to something other, even when we don’t know that we have, these things will be absent. This is one of the reasons many aren’t gathering with the Saints any longer. They got tired of these things missing, but were as much of the problem as the ones they blame. Come back to the cross and you will find these much needed blessings IN Christ!!
Seeking God in His Word and experiencing Him through faith in the sacrifice of Christ!
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3/15/2020
Pastor Curtis
Philippians 2:1
If there be therefore any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any bowels and mercies,
The word, “Consolation” refers to comfort and the word, “Comfort” refers to consolation, therefore the Lord is here attempting to get us as His people to see that His encouragement, comfort of love, fellowship of the Spirit, compassions and mercies are all found “In Christ.” As a Christian, we were immersed into Christ through faith in His death (Romans 6:3), and have the OPPORTUNITY to daily walk “In Him” (Colossians 2:6), but it doesn’t mean that this walk just happens automatically. This is what has been missed and has caused much division and unnecessary suffering for centuries.
Make sure you read Colossians 2:6, and you will see that only as our faith is IN what PLACED US IN Christ, will we be found walking “In Him”, and only there are these things here mentioned and ALL Grace experienced. Faith in the cross is the only faith that saved us and continues to be the only faith that God honors. When we move our faith to something other, even when we don’t know that we have, these things will be absent. This is one of the reasons many aren’t gathering with the Saints any longer. They got tired of these things missing, but were as much of the problem as the ones they blame. Come back to the cross and you will find these much needed blessings IN Christ!!
Seeking God in His Word and experiencing Him through faith in the sacrifice of Christ!
SHARE the gospel of Jesus Christ on Social media!
Youtube: curtishutchinson316
3/15/2020
Pastor Curtis
Your Word for Today
“for the divisions of Reuben there were great searchings of heart. Gilead abode beyond Jordan: and why did Dan remain in ships? Asher continued on the sea shore and abode in his breaches. Zebulun and Naphtali were a people who jeoparded their lives unto the death in the high places of the field (Judg. 5:16-18).
The Holy Spirit here pinpoints the response of some of the Tribes of Israel, as it regards the great battle fought with Sisera and the ensuing victory. We should be careful to note that the Lord catalogs every single thing that we as Believers do.
The Holy Spirit said that the Tribe of Reuben had divisions in their ranks, and, as such, they did not respond to the battle. They stayed “beyond Jordan.”
With the Tribe of “Dan,” it was business as usual. They did not respond either!
The Tribe of Asher, so to speak, was up a creek; consequently, they did not respond!
To contrary, the Tribes of “Zebulun” and “Naphtali” gave their all, even jeoparding their lives in this fight against the enemies of the Lord.
As well, “Ephraim,” “Benjamin,” and “Issachar” responded favorably, and were noted as such.
And then the Spirit of the Lord through Deborah said, “Curse ye Meroz (a town), said the Angel of the LORD, curse ye bitterly the inhabitants thereof; because they came not to the help of the LORD, to the help of the LORD against the mighty” (Judg. 5:23).
All of this tells us that the conduct of the Tribes is contrasted. First, reference is made to the fact that only a minority of the Chiefs and of the people volunteered for the enterprise; but that did not discourage Deborah, for Jehovah “came down” for her against the mighty.
Faith will always gain the victory!”
—Donnie Swaggart (taken from the “Word for Every Day”)
Donnie Swaggart
“for the divisions of Reuben there were great searchings of heart. Gilead abode beyond Jordan: and why did Dan remain in ships? Asher continued on the sea shore and abode in his breaches. Zebulun and Naphtali were a people who jeoparded their lives unto the death in the high places of the field (Judg. 5:16-18).
The Holy Spirit here pinpoints the response of some of the Tribes of Israel, as it regards the great battle fought with Sisera and the ensuing victory. We should be careful to note that the Lord catalogs every single thing that we as Believers do.
The Holy Spirit said that the Tribe of Reuben had divisions in their ranks, and, as such, they did not respond to the battle. They stayed “beyond Jordan.”
With the Tribe of “Dan,” it was business as usual. They did not respond either!
The Tribe of Asher, so to speak, was up a creek; consequently, they did not respond!
To contrary, the Tribes of “Zebulun” and “Naphtali” gave their all, even jeoparding their lives in this fight against the enemies of the Lord.
As well, “Ephraim,” “Benjamin,” and “Issachar” responded favorably, and were noted as such.
And then the Spirit of the Lord through Deborah said, “Curse ye Meroz (a town), said the Angel of the LORD, curse ye bitterly the inhabitants thereof; because they came not to the help of the LORD, to the help of the LORD against the mighty” (Judg. 5:23).
All of this tells us that the conduct of the Tribes is contrasted. First, reference is made to the fact that only a minority of the Chiefs and of the people volunteered for the enterprise; but that did not discourage Deborah, for Jehovah “came down” for her against the mighty.
Faith will always gain the victory!”
—Donnie Swaggart (taken from the “Word for Every Day”)
Donnie Swaggart
Bread Crumbs “The Problem of Self” March 16
Self is the part of man where choices both physical and moral are made. God has created man with a free moral agency which allows him to decide as to what he will do, say, or believe. It is correct to say that the moral center of man resides in the “legitimate self.” Each person has a right and the responsibility to choose for themselves what they will depend upon, what they will do, or what they will believe. Any person can be influenced, either positively or negatively, towards right or towards wrong. Along with the negative outside voices that influence self we must also deal with the voices so akin to human nature. These are the voices of self-preservation, self-aggrandizement, positioning of self, promotion of self, prosperity of self, and the pleasing of self. The Bible teaches that each of us must deny himself, daily. It teaches that the believer must die to self and that self must be hidden in Christ. As Christians we are to embrace the denial of self and we are to become servants to others. In view of all this I have only one thing to say, “Help me Holy Ghost!”
Colossians 3:3 - For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God.
Pastor Loren Larson
Loren Larson Ministries
Self is the part of man where choices both physical and moral are made. God has created man with a free moral agency which allows him to decide as to what he will do, say, or believe. It is correct to say that the moral center of man resides in the “legitimate self.” Each person has a right and the responsibility to choose for themselves what they will depend upon, what they will do, or what they will believe. Any person can be influenced, either positively or negatively, towards right or towards wrong. Along with the negative outside voices that influence self we must also deal with the voices so akin to human nature. These are the voices of self-preservation, self-aggrandizement, positioning of self, promotion of self, prosperity of self, and the pleasing of self. The Bible teaches that each of us must deny himself, daily. It teaches that the believer must die to self and that self must be hidden in Christ. As Christians we are to embrace the denial of self and we are to become servants to others. In view of all this I have only one thing to say, “Help me Holy Ghost!”
Colossians 3:3 - For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God.
Pastor Loren Larson
Loren Larson Ministries
The Miracle of God’s Word
Philippians 2:2
Fulfil ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind.
This bible verse speaks of the unity of the believer, which is only found In Christ, and experienced in their WALK In Christ (Colossians 2:6). The Christian has a POSITION in Christ at the right hand of the Father based upon God having justified them due to their faith in Christ and His work at the cross, but the Christian also has a CONDITION while here on this earth. In a daily denial of self, and a taking up of one’s cross (Exclusive faith in Christ and His work on the cross), will one be able to be FOUND following Christ (Luke 9:23).
Fulfilling the Joy of the Lord is where our minds can be in unity, it is where our love for each other can be the same and we can be of one accord and of one mind. Jesus Christ endured the cross for the JOY that was set before Him (Hebrews 12:2), and for us to experience these benefits, we must daily follow Him and endure the cross which we are told to take up daily finding these blessed benefits! The Joy of the Lord is our strength, and can be our experience through the same Way He has made us His (Nehemiah 8:10, Hebrews 10:20).
Seeking God in His Word and experiencing Him through faith in the sacrifice of Christ!
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3/16/2020
Pastor Curtis
Philippians 2:2
Fulfil ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind.
This bible verse speaks of the unity of the believer, which is only found In Christ, and experienced in their WALK In Christ (Colossians 2:6). The Christian has a POSITION in Christ at the right hand of the Father based upon God having justified them due to their faith in Christ and His work at the cross, but the Christian also has a CONDITION while here on this earth. In a daily denial of self, and a taking up of one’s cross (Exclusive faith in Christ and His work on the cross), will one be able to be FOUND following Christ (Luke 9:23).
Fulfilling the Joy of the Lord is where our minds can be in unity, it is where our love for each other can be the same and we can be of one accord and of one mind. Jesus Christ endured the cross for the JOY that was set before Him (Hebrews 12:2), and for us to experience these benefits, we must daily follow Him and endure the cross which we are told to take up daily finding these blessed benefits! The Joy of the Lord is our strength, and can be our experience through the same Way He has made us His (Nehemiah 8:10, Hebrews 10:20).
Seeking God in His Word and experiencing Him through faith in the sacrifice of Christ!
SHARE the gospel of Jesus Christ on Social media!
Youtube: curtishutchinson316
3/16/2020
Pastor Curtis
Your Word for Today
“and there came an Angel of the LORD, and sat under an oak which was in Ophrah, that pertained unto Joash the Abiezrite: and his son Gideon threshed wheat by the winepress, to hide it from the Midianites. And the Angel of the LORD appeared unto him, and said unto him, the LORD is with you, thou mighty man of valour (Judg. 6:11-12).
Israel now finds herself again under the jack-booted heel of the oppressor, all because of sin. These were God’s People, and, therefore, were to be the mightiest on Earth; however, irrespective as to who the person or persons might be, sin will make slaves of those who engage its wares.
When the Lord appeared to Gideon, He referred to him as a “mighty man of valor.” What is He saying about me? About you?
Gideon was strong because he knew himself to be weak, and because he believed Jehovah to be mighty; the misery that he was in because of the Midianites caused him to lift his heart to God instead of accepting, as others did, the tyranny of the oppressor.
In response to the great visitation of Jehovah to Gideon, the Scripture says, “Then Gideon built an Altar there unto the LORD, and called it Jehovah-Shalom,” which means “the God of Peace.” The “peace” to which he now refers has a twofold meaning:
First of all, it refers to peace with God. Gideon’s victory with the Lord manifested itself in him destroying the idols in his own home. Public victories cannot be won in the absence of private victories. With sin removed, and done so by virtue of the slain lamb, all which typified Christ, peace is now restored.
Peace restored in the spiritual guarantees peace in every other capacity. In other words, the Lord would have Gideon destroy the oppressor, which he did. All victory is found in the Cross of Christ, and no victory is found outside of the Cross of Christ.”
—Donnie Swaggart (taken from the “Word for Every Day”)
Donnie Swaggart
“and there came an Angel of the LORD, and sat under an oak which was in Ophrah, that pertained unto Joash the Abiezrite: and his son Gideon threshed wheat by the winepress, to hide it from the Midianites. And the Angel of the LORD appeared unto him, and said unto him, the LORD is with you, thou mighty man of valour (Judg. 6:11-12).
Israel now finds herself again under the jack-booted heel of the oppressor, all because of sin. These were God’s People, and, therefore, were to be the mightiest on Earth; however, irrespective as to who the person or persons might be, sin will make slaves of those who engage its wares.
When the Lord appeared to Gideon, He referred to him as a “mighty man of valor.” What is He saying about me? About you?
Gideon was strong because he knew himself to be weak, and because he believed Jehovah to be mighty; the misery that he was in because of the Midianites caused him to lift his heart to God instead of accepting, as others did, the tyranny of the oppressor.
In response to the great visitation of Jehovah to Gideon, the Scripture says, “Then Gideon built an Altar there unto the LORD, and called it Jehovah-Shalom,” which means “the God of Peace.” The “peace” to which he now refers has a twofold meaning:
First of all, it refers to peace with God. Gideon’s victory with the Lord manifested itself in him destroying the idols in his own home. Public victories cannot be won in the absence of private victories. With sin removed, and done so by virtue of the slain lamb, all which typified Christ, peace is now restored.
Peace restored in the spiritual guarantees peace in every other capacity. In other words, the Lord would have Gideon destroy the oppressor, which he did. All victory is found in the Cross of Christ, and no victory is found outside of the Cross of Christ.”
—Donnie Swaggart (taken from the “Word for Every Day”)
Donnie Swaggart
Bread Crumbs “The Glorious Cross” March 17
Someone once asked, “Can we make too much of the Cross?” I really do not know how that could be possible! Most believers are guilty of just the opposite, not recognizing the magnificent simplicity and power that went on display when Christ died at Calvary. By the one sacrifice of Christ, every human being who would ever live has had all their sins paid for. It was at Calvary that the power of sin’s grip over the human heart was defeated. At Calvary, Jesus defeated forever the adversary of humanity, Satan. It was at Golgotha that every power of darkness met its match. It was the results of Calvary that allowed Jesus to rise from the dead and guaranteed the resurrection for every believer. With sin vanquished there was no grip of death that could detain Christ in the grave. Oh what a mighty victory Jesus won through the shedding of His precious blood. Without the cross, there would be no savior, there would be no salvation, there would be no victory, and there would be no hope. But because of the cross, all who will believe can be victorious in Christ for all eternity! Glory be to God!
1 Corinthians 1:18 - For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God.
Pastor Loren Larson
Loren Larson Ministries
Someone once asked, “Can we make too much of the Cross?” I really do not know how that could be possible! Most believers are guilty of just the opposite, not recognizing the magnificent simplicity and power that went on display when Christ died at Calvary. By the one sacrifice of Christ, every human being who would ever live has had all their sins paid for. It was at Calvary that the power of sin’s grip over the human heart was defeated. At Calvary, Jesus defeated forever the adversary of humanity, Satan. It was at Golgotha that every power of darkness met its match. It was the results of Calvary that allowed Jesus to rise from the dead and guaranteed the resurrection for every believer. With sin vanquished there was no grip of death that could detain Christ in the grave. Oh what a mighty victory Jesus won through the shedding of His precious blood. Without the cross, there would be no savior, there would be no salvation, there would be no victory, and there would be no hope. But because of the cross, all who will believe can be victorious in Christ for all eternity! Glory be to God!
1 Corinthians 1:18 - For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God.
Pastor Loren Larson
Loren Larson Ministries
The Miracle of God’s Word
Philippians 2:3
Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves.
Very important! When anything is being done through strife or vainglory, which is for our own glory instead of for the glory of the Lord, will have no rewards that come with it. Anything done through strife is something done “In the flesh”, and influenced by the evil one himself. Where there is envy and strife, there is confusion and EVERY EVIL WORK (James 3:16). Never forget that God deals with us based on what our hearts are saying, and not what our lips are expressing (Matthew 15:8, James 4:2-3).
We are called to walk in ‘LOWLINESS OF MIND’, which is where others are esteemed better than ourselves. This is the very fruit of Calvary, and cannot take place properly if one’s faith is not securely in Christ and His work at the cross. Do not be deceived in these last days, as it is NOT just Christ, but Christ and Him crucified, for there we will find His humility. Humility is being others centered while Pride is self centered. We all need a “High Christ Esteem” today and NOT a “High Self Esteem.” Faith in the cross again today gains us Christ and His very expression in this world! Carry the cross again today and see the beauty of His holiness, and the glory of our God!
Seeking God in His Word and experiencing Him through faith in the sacrifice of Christ!
SHARE the gospel of Jesus Christ on Social media!
Youtube: curtishutchinson316
3/17/2020
Pastor Curtis
Philippians 2:3
Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves.
Very important! When anything is being done through strife or vainglory, which is for our own glory instead of for the glory of the Lord, will have no rewards that come with it. Anything done through strife is something done “In the flesh”, and influenced by the evil one himself. Where there is envy and strife, there is confusion and EVERY EVIL WORK (James 3:16). Never forget that God deals with us based on what our hearts are saying, and not what our lips are expressing (Matthew 15:8, James 4:2-3).
We are called to walk in ‘LOWLINESS OF MIND’, which is where others are esteemed better than ourselves. This is the very fruit of Calvary, and cannot take place properly if one’s faith is not securely in Christ and His work at the cross. Do not be deceived in these last days, as it is NOT just Christ, but Christ and Him crucified, for there we will find His humility. Humility is being others centered while Pride is self centered. We all need a “High Christ Esteem” today and NOT a “High Self Esteem.” Faith in the cross again today gains us Christ and His very expression in this world! Carry the cross again today and see the beauty of His holiness, and the glory of our God!
Seeking God in His Word and experiencing Him through faith in the sacrifice of Christ!
SHARE the gospel of Jesus Christ on Social media!
Youtube: curtishutchinson316
3/17/2020
Pastor Curtis
Your Word for Today
“and the LORD said unto Gideon, By the three hundred men who lapped will I save you, and deliver the Midianites into your hand: and let all the other people go every man unto his place (Judg. 7:7).
An Israelite had a dream in which he saw a barley cake, which is the poorest of all bread, tumble into the host of Midian; it “came unto a tent, and smote it that it fell, and overturned it, that the tent lay along” (Judg. 7:13).
In gathering the army that was to fight the Midianites, in accordance with Deuteronomy 20:8, the cowardly were given the option of returning home, and 22,000 did so. A further test dismissed 9,700 men. By laying their swords aside, and going down with deliberation on their knees to drink, they showed that they were concerned about their own needs and comforts. On the other hand, the 300 showed by their action that God and the fortunes of His Kingdom had the first place in their hearts; they would not let even the necessary needs hinder them in getting to the work.
So the Lord would save Israel by defeating, with only three hundred men, the vast army of the Midianites. But these were three hundred faith men.
God, Who knows the heart, planned so that Israel could not say, “My own hand has saved me.” Man always wants to have a hand in his own Salvation; but listen to the song:
“Nothing, either great or small,
“Nothing, sinner, no,
“Jesus did it all,
“Long, long ago!”
—Donnie Swaggart (taken from the “Word for Every Day”)
Donnie Swaggart
“and the LORD said unto Gideon, By the three hundred men who lapped will I save you, and deliver the Midianites into your hand: and let all the other people go every man unto his place (Judg. 7:7).
An Israelite had a dream in which he saw a barley cake, which is the poorest of all bread, tumble into the host of Midian; it “came unto a tent, and smote it that it fell, and overturned it, that the tent lay along” (Judg. 7:13).
In gathering the army that was to fight the Midianites, in accordance with Deuteronomy 20:8, the cowardly were given the option of returning home, and 22,000 did so. A further test dismissed 9,700 men. By laying their swords aside, and going down with deliberation on their knees to drink, they showed that they were concerned about their own needs and comforts. On the other hand, the 300 showed by their action that God and the fortunes of His Kingdom had the first place in their hearts; they would not let even the necessary needs hinder them in getting to the work.
So the Lord would save Israel by defeating, with only three hundred men, the vast army of the Midianites. But these were three hundred faith men.
God, Who knows the heart, planned so that Israel could not say, “My own hand has saved me.” Man always wants to have a hand in his own Salvation; but listen to the song:
“Nothing, either great or small,
“Nothing, sinner, no,
“Jesus did it all,
“Long, long ago!”
—Donnie Swaggart (taken from the “Word for Every Day”)
Donnie Swaggart
Bread Crumbs “I Am Not Alone!” March 18
The promise of the Lord is that He will never leave us nor forsake us. This means that in the moment you receive devastating news, you are not alone. When the doctors say that there is nothing else to be done and you should get your affairs in order, you are not alone. When the bank account is empty and the income flow is stifled, you are not alone. When you fail for the umpteenth time in the same area, you are not alone. When family turns their backs on you, and close acquaintances just cannot be found, you are not alone. When your world comes crashing down and the dreams of your life seem to be inescapably eliminated from your future, you are not alone. When Satan tells you that there is no sense in going forward and that you should end it all, you are not alone. Jesus has promised to be with us every step of the way and in every moment of every day. And at the last, when we close our eyes in death, and chilly Jordan awaits straight ahead, we will not cross over all by ourselves. He will be with us still. We are not alone!
Deuteronomy 31:6 - Be strong and of a good courage, fear not, nor be afraid of them: for the LORD thy God, he it is that doth go with thee; he will not fail thee, nor forsake thee.
Pastor Loren Larson
Loren Larson Ministries
The promise of the Lord is that He will never leave us nor forsake us. This means that in the moment you receive devastating news, you are not alone. When the doctors say that there is nothing else to be done and you should get your affairs in order, you are not alone. When the bank account is empty and the income flow is stifled, you are not alone. When you fail for the umpteenth time in the same area, you are not alone. When family turns their backs on you, and close acquaintances just cannot be found, you are not alone. When your world comes crashing down and the dreams of your life seem to be inescapably eliminated from your future, you are not alone. When Satan tells you that there is no sense in going forward and that you should end it all, you are not alone. Jesus has promised to be with us every step of the way and in every moment of every day. And at the last, when we close our eyes in death, and chilly Jordan awaits straight ahead, we will not cross over all by ourselves. He will be with us still. We are not alone!
Deuteronomy 31:6 - Be strong and of a good courage, fear not, nor be afraid of them: for the LORD thy God, he it is that doth go with thee; he will not fail thee, nor forsake thee.
Pastor Loren Larson
Loren Larson Ministries
The Miracle of God’s Word
Philippians 2:4
Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others.
Here we see the very heart of God, as we are instructed to look beyond our own house and our own ministry and lives. When we look to the cross of Christ, we can see this being carried out, for what God did there in His Son was for all others. Faith will always have a heart for others, but just because folks are doing for others doesn’t mean they are operating in faith. The faith which our faithful God honors, and is the only faith that we find Life and reward in, is the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ (Galatians 2:20) who loved us and gave Himself for us.
This is the ONLY FAITH that God will honor and reward, for this faith is that avenue through which He is allowed to do the work through us. God only honors what God does, and it will do us well to surrender to this great Truth right now at this very moment. God is reaching for us, and desires that we see further than our own selves. Look to the cross, for it is the only place God gives eyes to see (John 3:3-5), and the only place through which we keep looking so we will not go blind (2 Peter 1:9). Look to Christ, which means looking to His work at Calvary (Hebrews 2:9, 12:2), so that we can walk in the Light of who He is, and all for the sake of others!
Seeking God in His Word and experiencing Him through faith in the sacrifice of Christ!
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3/18/2020
Pastor Curtis
Philippians 2:4
Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others.
Here we see the very heart of God, as we are instructed to look beyond our own house and our own ministry and lives. When we look to the cross of Christ, we can see this being carried out, for what God did there in His Son was for all others. Faith will always have a heart for others, but just because folks are doing for others doesn’t mean they are operating in faith. The faith which our faithful God honors, and is the only faith that we find Life and reward in, is the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ (Galatians 2:20) who loved us and gave Himself for us.
This is the ONLY FAITH that God will honor and reward, for this faith is that avenue through which He is allowed to do the work through us. God only honors what God does, and it will do us well to surrender to this great Truth right now at this very moment. God is reaching for us, and desires that we see further than our own selves. Look to the cross, for it is the only place God gives eyes to see (John 3:3-5), and the only place through which we keep looking so we will not go blind (2 Peter 1:9). Look to Christ, which means looking to His work at Calvary (Hebrews 2:9, 12:2), so that we can walk in the Light of who He is, and all for the sake of others!
Seeking God in His Word and experiencing Him through faith in the sacrifice of Christ!
SHARE the gospel of Jesus Christ on Social media!
Youtube: curtishutchinson316
3/18/2020
Pastor Curtis
Your Word for Today
“and the Children of Israel said unto the LORD, We have sinned: do Thou unto us whatsoever seems good unto You; deliver us only, we pray You, this day. And they put away the strange gods from among them, and served the LORD: and His soul was grieved for the misery of Israel (Judg. 10:15-16).
Israel now finds herself, because of sin, again oppressed by the enemy, and severely so! The Philistines on the west and the Ammonites on the east “vexed and oppressed them.” These words may be translated “broke and crushed them.” In earlier days when serving one false god, they were oppressed but on one side. But now, serving a multitude of idols, they are oppressed on both sides.
Sin has no stopping point, ever taking the person deeper into its clutches. Its aim is total destruction!
But there was sufficient energy of life in Israel to bring out the cry of confession. To be conscious of misery is a sign of life. Because of the deceitfulness of the heart, and because of the deceitfulness of sin, bondage is accepted after a slight struggle; then, after a time, the slave becomes unconscious of the slavery.
The confession, “We have sinned against You,” showed true Repentance, for it showed a sense of injury done to God, not merely sorrow because of the miseries that lay upon themselves. Remorse is not repentance — mental distress because of the painful results of sin is not repentance; but a sense of the grief and dishonor occasioned to God and sorrow because He has been sinned against — that is Repentance.
David and Simon Magus illustrate true and false repentance. The one cried out, “I have sinned against the LORD.” His first thought was God and His Glory. The other said, “Pray for me that none of these things come upon me.” His first thought was himself and how to secure exemption from punishment (Ps. 51; Acts 8:24).
True Repentance demands that the Believer repent not only of the bad that has been done, but the good as well. To be sure, it is a struggle of the flesh to repent of the good. The “good” is our crutch, our bargaining power with God; however, we must come to the place that we utterly realize that we have no bargaining power with God. Our only hope is to throw ourselves on His Mercy and Grace, confessing the evil and repenting of the good, i.e., “dependence on good things.” We must know that our only hope is Christ and what He has done for us at the Cross. Faith in that Finished Work always brings spiritual relief (Gal. 6:14).”
—Donnie Swaggart (taken from the “Word for Every Day”)
Donnie Swaggart
“and the Children of Israel said unto the LORD, We have sinned: do Thou unto us whatsoever seems good unto You; deliver us only, we pray You, this day. And they put away the strange gods from among them, and served the LORD: and His soul was grieved for the misery of Israel (Judg. 10:15-16).
Israel now finds herself, because of sin, again oppressed by the enemy, and severely so! The Philistines on the west and the Ammonites on the east “vexed and oppressed them.” These words may be translated “broke and crushed them.” In earlier days when serving one false god, they were oppressed but on one side. But now, serving a multitude of idols, they are oppressed on both sides.
Sin has no stopping point, ever taking the person deeper into its clutches. Its aim is total destruction!
But there was sufficient energy of life in Israel to bring out the cry of confession. To be conscious of misery is a sign of life. Because of the deceitfulness of the heart, and because of the deceitfulness of sin, bondage is accepted after a slight struggle; then, after a time, the slave becomes unconscious of the slavery.
The confession, “We have sinned against You,” showed true Repentance, for it showed a sense of injury done to God, not merely sorrow because of the miseries that lay upon themselves. Remorse is not repentance — mental distress because of the painful results of sin is not repentance; but a sense of the grief and dishonor occasioned to God and sorrow because He has been sinned against — that is Repentance.
David and Simon Magus illustrate true and false repentance. The one cried out, “I have sinned against the LORD.” His first thought was God and His Glory. The other said, “Pray for me that none of these things come upon me.” His first thought was himself and how to secure exemption from punishment (Ps. 51; Acts 8:24).
True Repentance demands that the Believer repent not only of the bad that has been done, but the good as well. To be sure, it is a struggle of the flesh to repent of the good. The “good” is our crutch, our bargaining power with God; however, we must come to the place that we utterly realize that we have no bargaining power with God. Our only hope is to throw ourselves on His Mercy and Grace, confessing the evil and repenting of the good, i.e., “dependence on good things.” We must know that our only hope is Christ and what He has done for us at the Cross. Faith in that Finished Work always brings spiritual relief (Gal. 6:14).”
—Donnie Swaggart (taken from the “Word for Every Day”)
Donnie Swaggart
Bread Crumbs “Life’s Biggest Problem” March 19
I looked in the mirror and what did I see? Life’s biggest problem, looking back at me! If one is to be honest, then one should readily agree that the greatest opposition to the formation of the life of Christ in ourselves, is ourselves. It's true that all men and women have failed. This is an undeniable, immutable, unchangeable truth. However many believers are stumbling over the fact that there are still remaining imperfections in their persons. That is not to say that they are hypocrites, or that they are not zealous for the things of the Lord, it is merely the simple truth that God has not finished changing us yet. Not only have we sinned in the past but we must also admit that on close inspection we find ourselves still falling short of the perfection and glory of God. This truth does not condone failure or acts of sin. That would be error and wrong. But neither should we look at ourselves as though there are no longer things that need to be changed. Someone has well said that a man's greatest victories occur when God obtains the victory over self. No matter how far we have come, we still have a ways to go!
Romans 3:23 - For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;
Pastor Loren Larson
Loren Larson Ministries
I looked in the mirror and what did I see? Life’s biggest problem, looking back at me! If one is to be honest, then one should readily agree that the greatest opposition to the formation of the life of Christ in ourselves, is ourselves. It's true that all men and women have failed. This is an undeniable, immutable, unchangeable truth. However many believers are stumbling over the fact that there are still remaining imperfections in their persons. That is not to say that they are hypocrites, or that they are not zealous for the things of the Lord, it is merely the simple truth that God has not finished changing us yet. Not only have we sinned in the past but we must also admit that on close inspection we find ourselves still falling short of the perfection and glory of God. This truth does not condone failure or acts of sin. That would be error and wrong. But neither should we look at ourselves as though there are no longer things that need to be changed. Someone has well said that a man's greatest victories occur when God obtains the victory over self. No matter how far we have come, we still have a ways to go!
Romans 3:23 - For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;
Pastor Loren Larson
Loren Larson Ministries
The Miracle of God’s Word
Philippians 2:5
Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus:
How often have we as God’s Children asked for the mind of the Lord in situations, but are overlooking the most important aspect of the mind of Christ, which is to be others centered (v 4). This is the very heart of God, His Son and His sacrificial work at Calvary. When our faith is actually in Christ and His work at Calvary, THEN AND ONLY THEN will the things we have become heir to, begin to manifest in our lives.
The only avenue through which God functions in the lives of His people is the same avenue through which He initially saved us (Colossians 1:6). Truth is found in Grace (Colossians 1:6), and Grace is God doing something that we cannot do, cannot earn and surely do not deserve. This is the avenue for ALL of God’s works among His people, for He only works IN TRUTH (Psalm 33:4, Romans 8:2). Oh come back to the cross, and begin to see the True Light of His Word that only shines through His cross. Jesus is the Light (John 8:12), but the cross is the switch that turns that Light on and KEEPS it on (1 Peter 1:5) to be able to function in the power and the mind of Christ (1 Corinthians 2:16).
Seeking God in His Word and experiencing Him through faith in the sacrifice of Christ!
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3/19/2020
Pastor Curtis
Philippians 2:5
Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus:
How often have we as God’s Children asked for the mind of the Lord in situations, but are overlooking the most important aspect of the mind of Christ, which is to be others centered (v 4). This is the very heart of God, His Son and His sacrificial work at Calvary. When our faith is actually in Christ and His work at Calvary, THEN AND ONLY THEN will the things we have become heir to, begin to manifest in our lives.
The only avenue through which God functions in the lives of His people is the same avenue through which He initially saved us (Colossians 1:6). Truth is found in Grace (Colossians 1:6), and Grace is God doing something that we cannot do, cannot earn and surely do not deserve. This is the avenue for ALL of God’s works among His people, for He only works IN TRUTH (Psalm 33:4, Romans 8:2). Oh come back to the cross, and begin to see the True Light of His Word that only shines through His cross. Jesus is the Light (John 8:12), but the cross is the switch that turns that Light on and KEEPS it on (1 Peter 1:5) to be able to function in the power and the mind of Christ (1 Corinthians 2:16).
Seeking God in His Word and experiencing Him through faith in the sacrifice of Christ!
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3/19/2020
Pastor Curtis
Your Word for Today
“then three thousand men of Judah went to the top of the rock Etam, and said to Samson, Knowest thou not that the Philistines are rulers over us? What is this that you have done to us? And he said unto them, As they did unto me, so have I done unto them. And they said unto him, We are come down to bind you, that we may deliver you into the hand of the Philistines. And Samson said unto them, Swear unto me, that you will not fall upon me yourselves (Judg. 15:11-12).
The opposition of the world is bitter to the Believer, but the opposition of the Church is more bitter. The men of Judah said to Samson: “Do you not know that the Philistines rule over us?” They wished to live in peace under that government of tyranny; and they did not wish to have in their midst a Nazarite who would disturb that peace and excite the world against them. Samson’s own people were quite ready to hand him over to a cruel death in order to maintain that peace, so-called! This condition of spiritual degradation marks, and has marked, the history of the Christian Church.
But just as the lion had no strength against Samson, so the Philistine had no strength against him. In this, Samson is a Type of Christ, Who destroyed him who had the power of death, that is, the Devil; and thus food and sweetness are brought out of death, as the honey out of the conquered lion.
God’s victories are usually won with despised instruments. In fact, the most feeble instrument is destruction to the enemy if God be behind it! Many presently ridicule Samson; and this is, in no way, meant to place a seal of approval upon his wrong direction; however, had he the help of his own people instead of their opposition, things may have been different.
At any rate, we must never forget that, despite Samson’s failures, one great victory shines greater than all, and I speak of his faith. The Holy Spirit listed him in the great hall of faith, placing him in the same category as David and Samuel (Heb. 11:32). Ultimately, Samson was an overcomer, for the Scripture says, “This is the Victory that overcomes the world, even our Faith” (I Jn. 5:4).”
—Donnie Swaggart (taken from the “Word for Every Day”)
Donnie Swaggart
“then three thousand men of Judah went to the top of the rock Etam, and said to Samson, Knowest thou not that the Philistines are rulers over us? What is this that you have done to us? And he said unto them, As they did unto me, so have I done unto them. And they said unto him, We are come down to bind you, that we may deliver you into the hand of the Philistines. And Samson said unto them, Swear unto me, that you will not fall upon me yourselves (Judg. 15:11-12).
The opposition of the world is bitter to the Believer, but the opposition of the Church is more bitter. The men of Judah said to Samson: “Do you not know that the Philistines rule over us?” They wished to live in peace under that government of tyranny; and they did not wish to have in their midst a Nazarite who would disturb that peace and excite the world against them. Samson’s own people were quite ready to hand him over to a cruel death in order to maintain that peace, so-called! This condition of spiritual degradation marks, and has marked, the history of the Christian Church.
But just as the lion had no strength against Samson, so the Philistine had no strength against him. In this, Samson is a Type of Christ, Who destroyed him who had the power of death, that is, the Devil; and thus food and sweetness are brought out of death, as the honey out of the conquered lion.
God’s victories are usually won with despised instruments. In fact, the most feeble instrument is destruction to the enemy if God be behind it! Many presently ridicule Samson; and this is, in no way, meant to place a seal of approval upon his wrong direction; however, had he the help of his own people instead of their opposition, things may have been different.
At any rate, we must never forget that, despite Samson’s failures, one great victory shines greater than all, and I speak of his faith. The Holy Spirit listed him in the great hall of faith, placing him in the same category as David and Samuel (Heb. 11:32). Ultimately, Samson was an overcomer, for the Scripture says, “This is the Victory that overcomes the world, even our Faith” (I Jn. 5:4).”
—Donnie Swaggart (taken from the “Word for Every Day”)
Donnie Swaggart
Bread Crumbs “Dedicated & Consecrated” March 20
The Christian is to live a life fully consecrated to God. No matter what our function may be in the body of Christ, a full-time dedication to the Lord is required. We don't serve a part-time God who deserves or desires a part-time people. We are joined to the Lord at redemption and we must live and act with a constant awareness of this fact. We must also sound a caution to the believer who sets aside their life for the Lord. We must never allow our faith to rest in acts of dedication or separation. God does not owe us His power or His blessing because we do good things. That would mean that God is indebted to man as a result of his action. God owes no one anything ever! We should see ourselves simply as servants, doing that which is our duty to do. We are not to become haughty, arrogant, and prideful because we are separated servants. Our faith must ever rest in Jesus as Saviour, Deliverer, and Sanctifier. My separation and dedication is a result of my love for my Savior and a way to show my gratefulness for what He did for me on Calvary.
1 Corinthians 6:19-20 What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? (20) For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's.
Pastor Loren Larson
Loren Larson Ministries
The Christian is to live a life fully consecrated to God. No matter what our function may be in the body of Christ, a full-time dedication to the Lord is required. We don't serve a part-time God who deserves or desires a part-time people. We are joined to the Lord at redemption and we must live and act with a constant awareness of this fact. We must also sound a caution to the believer who sets aside their life for the Lord. We must never allow our faith to rest in acts of dedication or separation. God does not owe us His power or His blessing because we do good things. That would mean that God is indebted to man as a result of his action. God owes no one anything ever! We should see ourselves simply as servants, doing that which is our duty to do. We are not to become haughty, arrogant, and prideful because we are separated servants. Our faith must ever rest in Jesus as Saviour, Deliverer, and Sanctifier. My separation and dedication is a result of my love for my Savior and a way to show my gratefulness for what He did for me on Calvary.
1 Corinthians 6:19-20 What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? (20) For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's.
Pastor Loren Larson
Loren Larson Ministries
The Miracle of God’s Word
Philippians 2:6
Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God:
Jesus always knew that He was God the Son in the flesh, and as the Jews hated Him for His declaration that He was the Son of God, and that making Him equal with God, Jesus never thought it was as the Jews thought, which was to be robbing God. The word, ‘Form’ refers to the word, ‘Nature’, and Jesus was surely fully God as well as fully man. Jesus came to represent His Heavenly Father to a lost and dying world, but He also came to represent this lost and dying world to His Heavenly Father.
Jesus showed us how God has always desired men to live among each other. Being concerned about others, loving each other, and enjoying His provision in relationship with Him. This couldn’t be obtained until He came to take the very sin away that held us captive and separated us from God. Only through faith in what God did in His Son on the cross, can we see and have this love of God, and become His children to have this very Life that Christ provided through His death. Outside of faith in the cross of Jesus Christ, there is nothing but the form of men influenced by the enemy, but through faith in the cross of Christ, there we find more than form, but the very power of our faithful God (1 Corinthians 1:18).
Seeking God in His Word and experiencing Him through faith in the sacrifice of Christ!
SHARE the gospel of Jesus Christ on Social media!
Youtube: curtishutchinson316
3/20/2020
Pastor Curtis
Philippians 2:6
Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God:
Jesus always knew that He was God the Son in the flesh, and as the Jews hated Him for His declaration that He was the Son of God, and that making Him equal with God, Jesus never thought it was as the Jews thought, which was to be robbing God. The word, ‘Form’ refers to the word, ‘Nature’, and Jesus was surely fully God as well as fully man. Jesus came to represent His Heavenly Father to a lost and dying world, but He also came to represent this lost and dying world to His Heavenly Father.
Jesus showed us how God has always desired men to live among each other. Being concerned about others, loving each other, and enjoying His provision in relationship with Him. This couldn’t be obtained until He came to take the very sin away that held us captive and separated us from God. Only through faith in what God did in His Son on the cross, can we see and have this love of God, and become His children to have this very Life that Christ provided through His death. Outside of faith in the cross of Jesus Christ, there is nothing but the form of men influenced by the enemy, but through faith in the cross of Christ, there we find more than form, but the very power of our faithful God (1 Corinthians 1:18).
Seeking God in His Word and experiencing Him through faith in the sacrifice of Christ!
SHARE the gospel of Jesus Christ on Social media!
Youtube: curtishutchinson316
3/20/2020
Pastor Curtis