www.GrayceDillon.com
Thursday, May 6, 2010
He Tore Down the Walls
He Tore Down the Wall
Ephesians 2 1-6 It wasn't so long ago that you were mired in that old stagnant life of sin. You let the world, which doesn't know the first thing about living, tell you how to live. You filled your lungs with polluted unbelief, and then exhaled disobedience. We all did it, all of us doing what we felt like doing, when we felt like doing it, all of us in the same boat. It's a wonder God didn't lose his temper and do away with the whole lot of us. Instead, immense in mercy and with an incredible love, he embraced us. He took our sin-dead lives and made us alive in Christ. He did all this on his own, with no help from us! Then he picked us up and set us down in highest heaven in company with Jesus, our Messiah.
7-10Now God has us where he wants us, with all the time in this world and the next to shower grace and kindness upon us in Christ Jesus. Saving is all his idea, and all his work. All we do is trust him enough to let him do it. It's God's gift from start to finish! We don't play the major role. If we did, we'd probably go around bragging that we'd done the whole thing! No, we neither make nor save ourselves. God does both the making and saving. He creates each of us by Christ Jesus to join him in the work he does, the good work he has gotten ready for us to do, work we had better be doing.
11-13But don't take any of this for granted. It was only yesterday that you outsiders to God's ways had no idea of any of this, didn't know the first thing about the way God works, hadn't the faintest idea of Christ. You knew nothing of that rich history of God's covenants and promises in Israel, hadn't a clue about what God was doing in the world at large. Now because of Christ—dying that death, shedding that blood—you who were once out of it altogether are in on everything.
14-15The Messiah has made things up between us so that we're now together on this, both non-Jewish outsiders and Jewish insiders. He tore down the wall we used to keep each other at a distance. He repealed the law code that had become so clogged with fine print and footnotes that it hindered more than it helped. Then he started over. Instead of continuing with two groups of people separated by centuries of animosity and suspicion, he created a new kind of human being, a fresh start for everybody.
16-18Christ brought us together through his death on the cross. The Cross got us to embrace, and that was the end of the hostility. Christ came and preached peace to you outsiders and peace to us insiders. He treated us as equals, and so made us equals. Through him we both share the same Spirit and have equal access to the Father.
19-22That's plain enough, isn't it? You're no longer wandering exiles. This kingdom of faith is now your home country. You're no longer strangers or outsiders. You belong here, with as much right to the name Christian as anyone. God is building a home. He's using us all—irrespective of how we got here—in what he is building. He used the apostles and prophets for the foundation. Now he's using you, fitting you in brick by brick, stone by stone, with Christ Jesus as the cornerstone that holds all the parts together. We see it taking shape day after day—a holy temple built by God, all of us built into it, a temple in which God is quite at home.
Ephesians 2 1-6 It wasn't so long ago that you were mired in that old stagnant life of sin. You let the world, which doesn't know the first thing about living, tell you how to live. You filled your lungs with polluted unbelief, and then exhaled disobedience. We all did it, all of us doing what we felt like doing, when we felt like doing it, all of us in the same boat. It's a wonder God didn't lose his temper and do away with the whole lot of us. Instead, immense in mercy and with an incredible love, he embraced us. He took our sin-dead lives and made us alive in Christ. He did all this on his own, with no help from us! Then he picked us up and set us down in highest heaven in company with Jesus, our Messiah.
7-10Now God has us where he wants us, with all the time in this world and the next to shower grace and kindness upon us in Christ Jesus. Saving is all his idea, and all his work. All we do is trust him enough to let him do it. It's God's gift from start to finish! We don't play the major role. If we did, we'd probably go around bragging that we'd done the whole thing! No, we neither make nor save ourselves. God does both the making and saving. He creates each of us by Christ Jesus to join him in the work he does, the good work he has gotten ready for us to do, work we had better be doing.
11-13But don't take any of this for granted. It was only yesterday that you outsiders to God's ways had no idea of any of this, didn't know the first thing about the way God works, hadn't the faintest idea of Christ. You knew nothing of that rich history of God's covenants and promises in Israel, hadn't a clue about what God was doing in the world at large. Now because of Christ—dying that death, shedding that blood—you who were once out of it altogether are in on everything.
14-15The Messiah has made things up between us so that we're now together on this, both non-Jewish outsiders and Jewish insiders. He tore down the wall we used to keep each other at a distance. He repealed the law code that had become so clogged with fine print and footnotes that it hindered more than it helped. Then he started over. Instead of continuing with two groups of people separated by centuries of animosity and suspicion, he created a new kind of human being, a fresh start for everybody.
16-18Christ brought us together through his death on the cross. The Cross got us to embrace, and that was the end of the hostility. Christ came and preached peace to you outsiders and peace to us insiders. He treated us as equals, and so made us equals. Through him we both share the same Spirit and have equal access to the Father.
19-22That's plain enough, isn't it? You're no longer wandering exiles. This kingdom of faith is now your home country. You're no longer strangers or outsiders. You belong here, with as much right to the name Christian as anyone. God is building a home. He's using us all—irrespective of how we got here—in what he is building. He used the apostles and prophets for the foundation. Now he's using you, fitting you in brick by brick, stone by stone, with Christ Jesus as the cornerstone that holds all the parts together. We see it taking shape day after day—a holy temple built by God, all of us built into it, a temple in which God is quite at home.
Pleased with Your Self?
Luke 18: 9-12 He told his next story to some who were complacently pleased with themselves over their moral performance and looked down their noses at the common people: "Two men went up to the Temple to pray, one a Pharisee, the other a tax man. The Pharisee posed and prayed like this: 'Oh, God, I thank you that I am not like other people—robbers, crooks, adulterers, or, heaven forbid, like this tax man. I fast twice a week and tithe on all my income.'
13"Meanwhile the tax man, slumped in the shadows, his face in his hands, not daring to look up, said, 'God, give mercy. Forgive me, a sinner.'"
14Jesus commented, "This tax man, not the other, went home made right with God. If you walk around with your nose in the air, you're going to end up flat on your face, but if you're content to be simply yourself, you will become more than yourself."
13"Meanwhile the tax man, slumped in the shadows, his face in his hands, not daring to look up, said, 'God, give mercy. Forgive me, a sinner.'"
14Jesus commented, "This tax man, not the other, went home made right with God. If you walk around with your nose in the air, you're going to end up flat on your face, but if you're content to be simply yourself, you will become more than yourself."
On Giving Thanks and Praise to God
Psalm 50:23 It's the praising life that honors me.
As soon as you set your foot on the Way,
I'll show you my salvation."
2 Corinthians 9:12-15Carrying out this social relief work involves far more than helping meet the bare needs of poor Christians. It also produces abundant and bountiful thanksgivings to God. This relief offering is a prod to live at your very best, showing your gratitude to God by being openly obedient to the plain meaning of the Message of Christ. You show your gratitude through your generous offerings to your needy brothers and sisters, and really toward everyone. Meanwhile, moved by the extravagance of God in your lives, they'll respond by praying for you in passionate intercession for whatever you need. Thank God for this gift, his gift. No language can praise it enough!
2 Corinthians 2:14 But I thank God, who always leads us in victory because of Christ. Wherever we go, God uses us to make clear what it means to know Christ. It's like a fragrance that fills the air.
(GOD'S WORD® Translation)
1 Thessalonians 5:18 Whatever happens, give thanks, because it is God's will in Christ Jesus that you do this. (GOD'S WORD® Translation)
Psalm 106:1 Praise the LORD! Oh give thanks to the LORD, for He is good; For His lovingkindness is everlasting.
Psalm 105:1 Bible in Basic English
O give praise to the Lord; give honour to his name, talking of his doings among the peoples.
Psalm 35:18 I will give you thanks in the great assembly. I will praise you among many people.
Psalm 7:17 Bible in Basic English
I will give praise to the Lord for his righteousness; I will make a song to the name of the Lord Most High.
Ephesians 5:4 Obscene, flippant, or vulgar talk is totally inappropriate. Instead, let there be thanksgiving.
As soon as you set your foot on the Way,
I'll show you my salvation."
2 Corinthians 9:12-15Carrying out this social relief work involves far more than helping meet the bare needs of poor Christians. It also produces abundant and bountiful thanksgivings to God. This relief offering is a prod to live at your very best, showing your gratitude to God by being openly obedient to the plain meaning of the Message of Christ. You show your gratitude through your generous offerings to your needy brothers and sisters, and really toward everyone. Meanwhile, moved by the extravagance of God in your lives, they'll respond by praying for you in passionate intercession for whatever you need. Thank God for this gift, his gift. No language can praise it enough!
2 Corinthians 2:14 But I thank God, who always leads us in victory because of Christ. Wherever we go, God uses us to make clear what it means to know Christ. It's like a fragrance that fills the air.
(GOD'S WORD® Translation)
1 Thessalonians 5:18 Whatever happens, give thanks, because it is God's will in Christ Jesus that you do this. (GOD'S WORD® Translation)
Psalm 106:1 Praise the LORD! Oh give thanks to the LORD, for He is good; For His lovingkindness is everlasting.
Psalm 105:1 Bible in Basic English
O give praise to the Lord; give honour to his name, talking of his doings among the peoples.
Psalm 35:18 I will give you thanks in the great assembly. I will praise you among many people.
Psalm 7:17 Bible in Basic English
I will give praise to the Lord for his righteousness; I will make a song to the name of the Lord Most High.
Ephesians 5:4 Obscene, flippant, or vulgar talk is totally inappropriate. Instead, let there be thanksgiving.
Wake Up!
Ephesians 5
Wake Up from Your Sleep
1-2Watch what God does, and then you do it, like children who learn proper behavior from their parents. Mostly what God does is love you. Keep company with him and learn a life of love. Observe how Christ loved us. His love was not cautious but extravagant. He didn't love in order to get something from us but to give everything of himself to us. Love like that.
3-4Don't allow love to turn into lust, setting off a downhill slide into sexual promiscuity, filthy practices, or bullying greed. Though some tongues just love the taste of gossip, those who follow Jesus have better uses for language than that. Don't talk dirty or silly. That kind of talk doesn't fit our style. Thanksgiving is our dialect.
5You can be sure that using people or religion or things just for what you can get out of them—the usual variations on idolatry—will get you nowhere, and certainly nowhere near the kingdom of Christ, the kingdom of God.
6-7Don't let yourselves get taken in by religious smooth talk. God gets furious with people who are full of religious sales talk but want nothing to do with him. Don't even hang around people like that.
8-10You groped your way through that murk once, but no longer. You're out in the open now. The bright light of Christ makes your way plain. So no more stumbling around. Get on with it! The good, the right, the true—these are the actions appropriate for daylight hours. Figure out what will please Christ, and then do it.
Ephesians 5:11-16Don't waste your time on useless work, mere busywork, the barren pursuits of darkness. Expose these things for the sham they are. It's a scandal when people waste their lives on things they must do in the darkness where no one will see. Rip the cover off those frauds and see how attractive they look in the light of Christ.
Wake up from your sleep,
Climb out of your coffins;
Christ will show you the light!
So watch your step. Use your head. Make the most of every chance you get. These are desperate times!
17Don't live carelessly, unthinkingly. Make sure you understand what the Master wants.
18-20Don't drink too much wine. That cheapens your life. Drink the Spirit of God, huge draughts of him. Sing hymns instead of drinking songs! Sing songs from your heart to Christ. Sing praises over everything, any excuse for a song to God the Father in the name of our Master, Jesus Christ.
Wake Up from Your Sleep
1-2Watch what God does, and then you do it, like children who learn proper behavior from their parents. Mostly what God does is love you. Keep company with him and learn a life of love. Observe how Christ loved us. His love was not cautious but extravagant. He didn't love in order to get something from us but to give everything of himself to us. Love like that.
3-4Don't allow love to turn into lust, setting off a downhill slide into sexual promiscuity, filthy practices, or bullying greed. Though some tongues just love the taste of gossip, those who follow Jesus have better uses for language than that. Don't talk dirty or silly. That kind of talk doesn't fit our style. Thanksgiving is our dialect.
5You can be sure that using people or religion or things just for what you can get out of them—the usual variations on idolatry—will get you nowhere, and certainly nowhere near the kingdom of Christ, the kingdom of God.
6-7Don't let yourselves get taken in by religious smooth talk. God gets furious with people who are full of religious sales talk but want nothing to do with him. Don't even hang around people like that.
8-10You groped your way through that murk once, but no longer. You're out in the open now. The bright light of Christ makes your way plain. So no more stumbling around. Get on with it! The good, the right, the true—these are the actions appropriate for daylight hours. Figure out what will please Christ, and then do it.
Ephesians 5:11-16Don't waste your time on useless work, mere busywork, the barren pursuits of darkness. Expose these things for the sham they are. It's a scandal when people waste their lives on things they must do in the darkness where no one will see. Rip the cover off those frauds and see how attractive they look in the light of Christ.
Wake up from your sleep,
Climb out of your coffins;
Christ will show you the light!
So watch your step. Use your head. Make the most of every chance you get. These are desperate times!
17Don't live carelessly, unthinkingly. Make sure you understand what the Master wants.
18-20Don't drink too much wine. That cheapens your life. Drink the Spirit of God, huge draughts of him. Sing hymns instead of drinking songs! Sing songs from your heart to Christ. Sing praises over everything, any excuse for a song to God the Father in the name of our Master, Jesus Christ.
Gratitude/Gratefulness
With a grateful heart we lift up the name of Jesus. When we are discontent, we essentially tell our loving father, "It is not enough. I want more. Your provision is not sufficient." 1 Tim 6:7 we find, "For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. And having food and raiment let us be therewith content." I don't think we can have a grateful heart, without contentment. Contentment is a satisfied soul. Satisfied and grateful, without yearning for more of what pleases the flesh.
On the other hand we do yearn for others to come to a knowledge of the truth and be saved. We are not content that "we have OURS." Rather we are stirred to share the riches of our God with all. Our hearts are so grateful for what HE has done, and the richness of HIS love and blessings to us, that we desire to give back to HIM.
Heb 13:5-6..."Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have; for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper and I will not fear what man shall do unto me."
True gratitude focuses on the greatness of the giver rather than the gift. We are thankful, grateful for who HE is, rather than what HE gives. We express it in tangible ways that bless others. "How can we love God whom we can not see, if we can't love those before us?" Paraphrased from a scripture I can not recall, but is written on our hearts. We follow our lord with a commitment that shows that we believe what we preach.
On the other hand we do yearn for others to come to a knowledge of the truth and be saved. We are not content that "we have OURS." Rather we are stirred to share the riches of our God with all. Our hearts are so grateful for what HE has done, and the richness of HIS love and blessings to us, that we desire to give back to HIM.
Heb 13:5-6..."Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have; for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper and I will not fear what man shall do unto me."
True gratitude focuses on the greatness of the giver rather than the gift. We are thankful, grateful for who HE is, rather than what HE gives. We express it in tangible ways that bless others. "How can we love God whom we can not see, if we can't love those before us?" Paraphrased from a scripture I can not recall, but is written on our hearts. We follow our lord with a commitment that shows that we believe what we preach.
The Bronx Zoo
by Grayce Pedulla Dillon
When I was a child growing up in the Bronx, my family made frequent trips to The BronxZoo. It was always an adventure, and the happiest times I ever spent with my Dad were in that park. We would take the number twenty bus to Fordham Road and Southern Boulevard. Before we entered we would purchase a brown paper bag of hot roasted peanuts from the vendor stationed just up from the bus stop. Once armed with our enticements, we'd proceed to the entrance. Dad would pay our fee, push my brothers and sister and me through the tall turnstile and then follow us. Without exception, he always "got stuck" in the huge rotating iron-gate and pleaded with us to help him get free. After he succeeded in terrifying us he always miraculously broke loose and we would gleefully cheer. Raucously, we kids would then dart ahead to "the rock." A mammoth boulder jutted out of the pavement and we would climb and clamber over it until we triumphantly reached its pinnacle, which was all of three feet high.
Having that ritual done, each of us filled our tiny hands with peanuts to feed the squirrels. Tap, tap, tap, we would knock on the ground to get their attention. We'd drop the treats just in front of us and remain very, very still while they gingerly approached. They would grab their gifts and cleverly maneuver the shell to get at the nut inside. We were enthralled at the entire performance.
Next we happily skipped ahead to the deer herd enclosed in their fenced yard. We were convinced they belonged to that roly-poly, jolly guy who dressed in red. Of course we searched diligently for the most famous reindeer of all with the red nose. The only one to spot him for certain was (you guessed it) Dad. It was a thrill to get so close and to know the herd lived in the Bronx.
Just a short run ahead was "the giant bird cage." It was very exciting to enter their world as a myriad of feathered creatures freely flew over our heads. What fascinated me also was the variety of birdcalls. Until this day I whistle to birds, mimicking their calls as I learned to do then. Some responded and came closer to examine us in wonder.
One exhibit after another entertained us beyond our expectations. As many times as we visited we were never bored. There was always a new discovery and Dad enhanced it with his own shenanigans. He would skip along exhorting us to join him as he sang "Here we go gathering nuts and hay, nuts and hay, nuts and hay." We merrily skipped along singing, laughing, and eagerly anticipating the next stop of our tour.
We always visited the toucans. They were among Dad's favorites. He told us that he had once carved his initials into the beak of one of them. I never did find it but I believed it for a long, long time. In fact I still find myself inspecting them prudently.
When we reached the big, noisy cat house we were awestruck. Dad lived dangerously. He would roll up a newspaper and glide it across the bars tantalizing the lions or tigers until the cats shredded it. At that time all the felines were housed in one building in bare concrete and steel cages. Although Dad played perilously, I think two things were accomplished (in spite of him). First, he demonstrated to us the power of the animals, and secondly he provided some diversion to the poor beasts that had little more to do than pace to and fro out of bored frustration. Throughout the day Dad would show us the paper and remind us what those big cats were capable of.
In the Ape House, where there were exotic primates from seemingly every corner of the planet, there lived a clan of Mandrills. Not only did I find them mesmerizing, but they apparently perceived me the same way. When I was in their presence the red-faced patriarch would become agitated and pounce on the glass toward me. He would calm down when I exited, then resume his aggressive behavior when I returned, leaving me open to crude remarks from my older siblings.
Visits to the Zoo continue to be a family destination to this day. Dad died three years ago. The last time I spent time alone with him was at the zoo. We reminisced and marveled at the wonderful changes that have occurred. It is now more appropriately called "The Wildlife Conservation Park." Long gone are the prisons that once housed the animals. For the most part they have been replaced by naturalistic habitats that are designed to provide comfortable dwelling places for the residents and visually appealing views for visitors. It has come a long way since it's inception in 1899. Today more of the park's 265 acres are used as diverse environments to the animal's advantage. They are grouped with other species in areas according to the regions they are indigenous to. For example the lions share an open plains area with other species that are also natives of the African Savannah such as gazelles and storks. A deep moat that blends unobtrusively into the landscape separates them from each other. Nearby are other African species such as giraffes, okapis, meercats, and more all in the great outdoor neighborhood replicating their native lands.
A few years ago a snowstorm caused the old aviary to collapse. Fortunately loss of bird life was minimal. A new structure has been erected and provides a beautiful seaside community of feathered creatures from the Pacific Coast of South America.
This wonderful zoological park we call the Bronx Zoo has truly changed drastically for the better since I was a child. It serves to raise people's consciousness about endangered and threatened species rather than to simply entertain. When my grandson Christopher saw a display of the frivolous products made by ivory from slaughtered elephants, then examined the mammoth pachyderms live, he quickly came to their defense, recognizing the need to protect them. Countless children have come to understand many of the perils that earth's creatures face because of education programs provided at "our Bronx Zoo." This is a heritage worth preserving for many generations to come.
This essay is dedicated to my Dad, Dominick Pedulla. I wrote it in 2000 not long after my Dad passed away. Mom has since, also passed away.
When I was a child growing up in the Bronx, my family made frequent trips to The BronxZoo. It was always an adventure, and the happiest times I ever spent with my Dad were in that park. We would take the number twenty bus to Fordham Road and Southern Boulevard. Before we entered we would purchase a brown paper bag of hot roasted peanuts from the vendor stationed just up from the bus stop. Once armed with our enticements, we'd proceed to the entrance. Dad would pay our fee, push my brothers and sister and me through the tall turnstile and then follow us. Without exception, he always "got stuck" in the huge rotating iron-gate and pleaded with us to help him get free. After he succeeded in terrifying us he always miraculously broke loose and we would gleefully cheer. Raucously, we kids would then dart ahead to "the rock." A mammoth boulder jutted out of the pavement and we would climb and clamber over it until we triumphantly reached its pinnacle, which was all of three feet high.
Having that ritual done, each of us filled our tiny hands with peanuts to feed the squirrels. Tap, tap, tap, we would knock on the ground to get their attention. We'd drop the treats just in front of us and remain very, very still while they gingerly approached. They would grab their gifts and cleverly maneuver the shell to get at the nut inside. We were enthralled at the entire performance.
Next we happily skipped ahead to the deer herd enclosed in their fenced yard. We were convinced they belonged to that roly-poly, jolly guy who dressed in red. Of course we searched diligently for the most famous reindeer of all with the red nose. The only one to spot him for certain was (you guessed it) Dad. It was a thrill to get so close and to know the herd lived in the Bronx.
Just a short run ahead was "the giant bird cage." It was very exciting to enter their world as a myriad of feathered creatures freely flew over our heads. What fascinated me also was the variety of birdcalls. Until this day I whistle to birds, mimicking their calls as I learned to do then. Some responded and came closer to examine us in wonder.
One exhibit after another entertained us beyond our expectations. As many times as we visited we were never bored. There was always a new discovery and Dad enhanced it with his own shenanigans. He would skip along exhorting us to join him as he sang "Here we go gathering nuts and hay, nuts and hay, nuts and hay." We merrily skipped along singing, laughing, and eagerly anticipating the next stop of our tour.
We always visited the toucans. They were among Dad's favorites. He told us that he had once carved his initials into the beak of one of them. I never did find it but I believed it for a long, long time. In fact I still find myself inspecting them prudently.
When we reached the big, noisy cat house we were awestruck. Dad lived dangerously. He would roll up a newspaper and glide it across the bars tantalizing the lions or tigers until the cats shredded it. At that time all the felines were housed in one building in bare concrete and steel cages. Although Dad played perilously, I think two things were accomplished (in spite of him). First, he demonstrated to us the power of the animals, and secondly he provided some diversion to the poor beasts that had little more to do than pace to and fro out of bored frustration. Throughout the day Dad would show us the paper and remind us what those big cats were capable of.
In the Ape House, where there were exotic primates from seemingly every corner of the planet, there lived a clan of Mandrills. Not only did I find them mesmerizing, but they apparently perceived me the same way. When I was in their presence the red-faced patriarch would become agitated and pounce on the glass toward me. He would calm down when I exited, then resume his aggressive behavior when I returned, leaving me open to crude remarks from my older siblings.
Visits to the Zoo continue to be a family destination to this day. Dad died three years ago. The last time I spent time alone with him was at the zoo. We reminisced and marveled at the wonderful changes that have occurred. It is now more appropriately called "The Wildlife Conservation Park." Long gone are the prisons that once housed the animals. For the most part they have been replaced by naturalistic habitats that are designed to provide comfortable dwelling places for the residents and visually appealing views for visitors. It has come a long way since it's inception in 1899. Today more of the park's 265 acres are used as diverse environments to the animal's advantage. They are grouped with other species in areas according to the regions they are indigenous to. For example the lions share an open plains area with other species that are also natives of the African Savannah such as gazelles and storks. A deep moat that blends unobtrusively into the landscape separates them from each other. Nearby are other African species such as giraffes, okapis, meercats, and more all in the great outdoor neighborhood replicating their native lands.
A few years ago a snowstorm caused the old aviary to collapse. Fortunately loss of bird life was minimal. A new structure has been erected and provides a beautiful seaside community of feathered creatures from the Pacific Coast of South America.
This wonderful zoological park we call the Bronx Zoo has truly changed drastically for the better since I was a child. It serves to raise people's consciousness about endangered and threatened species rather than to simply entertain. When my grandson Christopher saw a display of the frivolous products made by ivory from slaughtered elephants, then examined the mammoth pachyderms live, he quickly came to their defense, recognizing the need to protect them. Countless children have come to understand many of the perils that earth's creatures face because of education programs provided at "our Bronx Zoo." This is a heritage worth preserving for many generations to come.
This essay is dedicated to my Dad, Dominick Pedulla. I wrote it in 2000 not long after my Dad passed away. Mom has since, also passed away.
Mom and Dad at the Bronx Zoo
Grayce Pedulla Dillon © 2002
www.graycedillon.com
Are you content in the grace of God?
Are you intimately acquainted with the grace of Christian contentment? Are you aware that all of your needs have been met, by a gracious, loving father? They have been, and you may mentally agree, but do you truly believe it? Do you have peace and a satisfaction in your soul that overflows from your mouth? Out of the fullness of your heart, is what comes out of your mouth.
Is discontentment being spoken? Are you complaining that what you have is not enough? Do you complain and gain sympathy from others that your relationships are not fulfilling, or that others disappoint you? That is discontentment. Like the horse leach that cries, "it is not enough." It is sowing seeds of discontent.
Never blame others for your spiritual state. No one else can make you happy or content. No one else is responsible to fill the voids that you may perceive in your own life. You must hold yourself accountable. God has already supplied all your need. He has equipped you and you lack nothing.
Self-pity is a deep pit. Compare yourself only to God's word, not another person. Make no mistake you will reap what you sow. If you continuously sow seeds of self-pity and discontent, you will reap the same. It just keeps getting deeper. The deeper into discontent that you allow yourself to go, the more difficult it will be for you to see your way out. It becomes your place of comfort and familiarity. Faith comes by hearing the word of God. Speak HIS word to yourself and your circumstances. Let every word that proceeds out of your mouth speak truth. Our feelings deceive us. Do not be deceived. The word of GOD is TRUTH. Feelings fluctuate and constantly change. The scriptures tell us that "a person's ways seem right to themselves." (paraphrased by me)
" People may be right in their own eyes, but the LORD examines their heart." Prov 21:2 NLT
It is not really possible to have peace if you are discontent. I remember what it felt like to be discontent. Trying for years, to get pregnant, wanting so badly what others had. I had determined in childhood that I wanted a large family of children. Once I determined to follow the lord, it made even more sense. It was right in my own mind that I should have lots of children and that I would raise them up in the way of faith. Something within me "felt" incomplete, and I constantly confessed my want. I can't begin to count the tears I shed in discontentment.
If I had all the children I wanted to have, would I have fostered other people's children who were cast off and rejected? Would we have taken in a paralyzed brother in need? Would I have been open to go into the prisons and nursing homes visiting with those in need? I would have been so busy feeding my own family that perhaps I wouldn’t have been so willing to go visit the sick and shut in with homemade soup and bread. So many other examples come to mind. If I had my own way, would I have opened my home and my heart to the needs of others? The lord had a plan and a purpose, yet my heart wanted what I wanted. In retrospect I see how that had become an idol in my life and a seed of discontentment.
At some point, many years ago, the Holy Spirit revealed my selfishness to me. It pierced my heart. All along I thought I was loving God, and had accepted HIM into my life. I had, in a measure, but I hadn't completely accepted Him if I hadn't accepted all that He allowed in my life. If I was discontent, I hadn't truly accepted all His will for my life.
It was a turning point...which is repentance. I was sincerely sorry I had been so discontent. I asked His forgiveness, and turned from that self-pitying discontent, that in reality had been denying God’s goodness. He was faithful and just to forgive me.
The difference in my life has been evident to those who know me. I am free from discontent and self pity. There are circumstances that arise that would tempt me to, once again, return and wallow in those past issues, but I have determined in my heart that I love be free and I love the contentment. When the lord sets us free we are free indeed, however we still have the free will to return to what He sets us free from.
With all honesty there is not a single person I can look at with envy. There is no longer anything anyone has that I covet, other than to grow in the knowledge and grace of the lord Jesus Christ. THAT is available to ALL who pursue it, so there is no need to envy. My experience has proven that God's word is true, and that Matt 6:33 "But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well" works. It works!!!! It works.
Thank God for His grace. It is sufficient, and my understanding of it becomes richer as I mature. I choose to walk in His path and be content with all that I have. I am blessed, so richly, by all that He has done for me, in me, and through me.
Proverbs 4:18 The path of the righteous is like the first gleam of dawn,
shining ever brighter till the full light of day.
Are you content in the grace of God?
Grayce Pedulla Dillon © 2010
Please ask permission before reprinting.
itsbygrayce@yahoo.com
www.GrayceDillon.com
YOU are Unique
Psalm 139:14 (New Living Translation)
14 Thank you for making me so wonderfully complex!
Your workmanship is marvelous—how well I know it.
You are a complex living organism in every sense of the word. Our bodies are intricately designed, and in a healthy system every part works together to maintain the balance. In a spiritual sense you were designed to function and flow within the body of Christ. Each member has a function different from the others.
Genesis 1:27
So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them.
Regardless of your gender, you are created in the image of the living God. His people are a reflection of His multifaceted nature. All are gifted and all gifts are intended to build up others, and point back to the creator. In a recent group discussion, one mouthpiece spoke up and pointed out gifts have been planted in you, and been developing since the beginning of your life. Another added that it has probably been evident to others, what your gifting is, and that it is usually something you are just drawn to.
An example was given of a certain disciple in the room who simply can not refrain from telling others about Jesus, where ever she goes. It was widely agreed that her gifting is in the field of evangelism. Though she has not yet, and maybe never will, have large crowds before her, she is operating in this ministry. Gifts of healings are a part of her ministry as well, since that is often a useful tool in the evangelistic outreach. He always provides the tools we need.
All are gifted. We are generally happy doing what we are good at, that is, using the gifts. When we offer ourselves to the lord, He will make room for these gifts, and we will be used to build up others. We are all rocks, building stones, set in the walls of the house of the lord. The house of the lord is not mortar and brick. It is us!!! It is fun to do the things we love, and to do them for the lord causes such deep joy that can only be understood to those who have experienced it. Rest assured this is not exclusive. Anyone who gives themselves to the lord may intimately know the joy of the lord as you yield to Him. To bring God glory and to enjoy fellowship with Him is the reason we exist. When we walk in that there is no longer a feeling that something is missing, or that we are missing out on something someone else has.
If we yield to the flesh we are not yielding to the lord. Matthew 6:24 (Amplified Bible)
24 No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will stand by and be devoted to the one and despise and be [a]against the other. You cannot serve God and mammon ([b]deceitful riches, money, possessions, or [c]whatever is trusted in).
It is good to recognize and admire the gifts in other people, but if we covet their gifts we may overlook what God has called us to do and be. We may be blinded to the gift that is within us. If you attempt to merely mimic another's gift you will fail. This will only contribute to feelings of inadequacy in your self. You are not called to be like anyone else. You are UNIQUE and God wants to use the gift in you. He breathed life into you, and gave you gifts that will bless others. Don't overlook it. You ARE good at certain things, and the more you exercise those things they will develop in you. You can not be compared to anyone else, and if you do you will be disappointed, and will open doors that are better left closed. Do not give a foothold to your enemy. Avoid envy and jealousy for there is no gift elevated above another.
Desire spiritual gifts to bring glory to your God. Function in those unique gifts that have been placed within you. Your enemy is subtle and may try to make you feel as if your gift is not as good as, not as important as, not as charismatic as someone else's. Resist that lie. Satan is the father of lies." So humble yourselves before God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you." James 4:7 We are not in a competition with other believers. The sooner you understand this in your walk, the sooner you will be free to serve the lord without reservation and with out fear of failure. "So if the Son sets you free, you will be absolutely free" John 8:36 (God's Word translation)
Ask the lord, today, even this moment. "Lord what do you want me to do?" Isn't that the same as asking for wisdom? James 1:5 (New International Version) James 1:5 "If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him." God's word is true, and He never goes back on His word. We can count on this. It pleases HIM when we ask for wisdom, because that is obedience to what He told us to do. He WILL show you what He wants of you.
1 Peter 4:7 The end of all things is near. Therefore be clear minded and self-controlled so that you can pray. 8 ABOVE ALL, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. 9 Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. 10 Each one should USE WHATEVER GIFT he has received TO SERVE OTHERS, faithfully administering God's grace in its various forms. 11 If anyone speaks, he should do it as one speaking the very words of God. If anyone serves, he should do it with the strength God provides, SO THAT IN ALL THINGS GOD MAY BE PRAISED through Jesus Christ. TO HIM be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen.
A final word of caution. When your gift makes room for you, people will praise you. Point them to the lord Jesus Christ. Do not receive the praise and glory to yourself. Do not be puffed up with pride. Proverbs 16:18 Pride goes before destruction, And a haughty spirit before a fall. The Message version clarifies a bit, as well. "First pride, then the crash— the bigger the ego, the harder the fall."
Let's glorify the gift giver and not the gift. TO HIM BE THE GLORY!
Copyright Grayce Pedulla Dillon © 2010
Before using please ask permission
14 Thank you for making me so wonderfully complex!
Your workmanship is marvelous—how well I know it.
You are a complex living organism in every sense of the word. Our bodies are intricately designed, and in a healthy system every part works together to maintain the balance. In a spiritual sense you were designed to function and flow within the body of Christ. Each member has a function different from the others.
Genesis 1:27
So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them.
Regardless of your gender, you are created in the image of the living God. His people are a reflection of His multifaceted nature. All are gifted and all gifts are intended to build up others, and point back to the creator. In a recent group discussion, one mouthpiece spoke up and pointed out gifts have been planted in you, and been developing since the beginning of your life. Another added that it has probably been evident to others, what your gifting is, and that it is usually something you are just drawn to.
An example was given of a certain disciple in the room who simply can not refrain from telling others about Jesus, where ever she goes. It was widely agreed that her gifting is in the field of evangelism. Though she has not yet, and maybe never will, have large crowds before her, she is operating in this ministry. Gifts of healings are a part of her ministry as well, since that is often a useful tool in the evangelistic outreach. He always provides the tools we need.
All are gifted. We are generally happy doing what we are good at, that is, using the gifts. When we offer ourselves to the lord, He will make room for these gifts, and we will be used to build up others. We are all rocks, building stones, set in the walls of the house of the lord. The house of the lord is not mortar and brick. It is us!!! It is fun to do the things we love, and to do them for the lord causes such deep joy that can only be understood to those who have experienced it. Rest assured this is not exclusive. Anyone who gives themselves to the lord may intimately know the joy of the lord as you yield to Him. To bring God glory and to enjoy fellowship with Him is the reason we exist. When we walk in that there is no longer a feeling that something is missing, or that we are missing out on something someone else has.
If we yield to the flesh we are not yielding to the lord. Matthew 6:24 (Amplified Bible)
24 No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will stand by and be devoted to the one and despise and be [a]against the other. You cannot serve God and mammon ([b]deceitful riches, money, possessions, or [c]whatever is trusted in).
It is good to recognize and admire the gifts in other people, but if we covet their gifts we may overlook what God has called us to do and be. We may be blinded to the gift that is within us. If you attempt to merely mimic another's gift you will fail. This will only contribute to feelings of inadequacy in your self. You are not called to be like anyone else. You are UNIQUE and God wants to use the gift in you. He breathed life into you, and gave you gifts that will bless others. Don't overlook it. You ARE good at certain things, and the more you exercise those things they will develop in you. You can not be compared to anyone else, and if you do you will be disappointed, and will open doors that are better left closed. Do not give a foothold to your enemy. Avoid envy and jealousy for there is no gift elevated above another.
Desire spiritual gifts to bring glory to your God. Function in those unique gifts that have been placed within you. Your enemy is subtle and may try to make you feel as if your gift is not as good as, not as important as, not as charismatic as someone else's. Resist that lie. Satan is the father of lies." So humble yourselves before God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you." James 4:7 We are not in a competition with other believers. The sooner you understand this in your walk, the sooner you will be free to serve the lord without reservation and with out fear of failure. "So if the Son sets you free, you will be absolutely free" John 8:36 (God's Word translation)
Ask the lord, today, even this moment. "Lord what do you want me to do?" Isn't that the same as asking for wisdom? James 1:5 (New International Version) James 1:5 "If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him." God's word is true, and He never goes back on His word. We can count on this. It pleases HIM when we ask for wisdom, because that is obedience to what He told us to do. He WILL show you what He wants of you.
1 Peter 4:7 The end of all things is near. Therefore be clear minded and self-controlled so that you can pray. 8 ABOVE ALL, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. 9 Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. 10 Each one should USE WHATEVER GIFT he has received TO SERVE OTHERS, faithfully administering God's grace in its various forms. 11 If anyone speaks, he should do it as one speaking the very words of God. If anyone serves, he should do it with the strength God provides, SO THAT IN ALL THINGS GOD MAY BE PRAISED through Jesus Christ. TO HIM be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen.
A final word of caution. When your gift makes room for you, people will praise you. Point them to the lord Jesus Christ. Do not receive the praise and glory to yourself. Do not be puffed up with pride. Proverbs 16:18 Pride goes before destruction, And a haughty spirit before a fall. The Message version clarifies a bit, as well. "First pride, then the crash— the bigger the ego, the harder the fall."
Let's glorify the gift giver and not the gift. TO HIM BE THE GLORY!
Copyright Grayce Pedulla Dillon © 2010
Before using please ask permission
Talk about unique! The roseate spoonbill has a unique bill that strains small food items out of the water.
Speak His Word and Dwell Safely
Psalm 40:10
I do not hide your righteousness in my heart; I speak of your faithfulness and salvation. I do not conceal your love and your truth from the great assembly.
It is a good thing to give thanks to the lord, to praise his name and bring him glory. You will be persecuted for this.
As tempting as it is some will claim their woes are a result of persecution. We often bring problems upon ourselves then give Satan credit for it. That is not a good thing.
When you speak the word of God, and people are being set free and delivered, and crying out to God as a result of HIS word, you will be attacked by the one who is trying to shut the mouth of God's mouthpieces. If you are speaking/teaching/preachin
Fiery darts will be aimed right at you, but if you know the lover of your soul, you will also know that you can dwell safely with HIM. He is protecting you, and shielding you from harm.
The righteous are bold as a lion, the wicked flee when no one is pursuing them. Why would the wicked flee when no one is pursuing them? Paranoia? Fear?
Be bold to speak HIS word. His word is TRUTH. Speak it in righteous boldness. It is an offense to some, but it has the power to set people free. It pierces the heart.
Don't run from the enemy. Resist him and he will flee from you. The word of God says so. Fear not what man can do to you. Trust God. Take HIM at HIS word.
DWELL with HIM, don't just visit.(as my friend and sister, Sue pointed out.) There is safety. There is liberation. All that you need is in Him.
Psalm 33:5
The LORD loves righteousness and justice; the earth is full of his unfailing love.
Psalm 33:22
May your unfailing love rest upon us, O LORD, even as we put our hope in you.
Our understanding will fall short without the wisdom of God.
Trust in the lord with all your heart, and don't lean on your own understanding. Acknowledge Him in ALL your ways and HE will direct your paths.
God is not mocked. He searches our hearts and knows the intents. Turn your heart to HIM. Allow Him to touch it deeply and find a habitation.
Grayce Pedulla Dillon © 2010
www.GrayceDillon.com
I do not hide your righteousness in my heart; I speak of your faithfulness and salvation. I do not conceal your love and your truth from the great assembly.
It is a good thing to give thanks to the lord, to praise his name and bring him glory. You will be persecuted for this.
As tempting as it is some will claim their woes are a result of persecution. We often bring problems upon ourselves then give Satan credit for it. That is not a good thing.
When you speak the word of God, and people are being set free and delivered, and crying out to God as a result of HIS word, you will be attacked by the one who is trying to shut the mouth of God's mouthpieces. If you are speaking/teaching/preachin
Fiery darts will be aimed right at you, but if you know the lover of your soul, you will also know that you can dwell safely with HIM. He is protecting you, and shielding you from harm.
The righteous are bold as a lion, the wicked flee when no one is pursuing them. Why would the wicked flee when no one is pursuing them? Paranoia? Fear?
Be bold to speak HIS word. His word is TRUTH. Speak it in righteous boldness. It is an offense to some, but it has the power to set people free. It pierces the heart.
Don't run from the enemy. Resist him and he will flee from you. The word of God says so. Fear not what man can do to you. Trust God. Take HIM at HIS word.
DWELL with HIM, don't just visit.(as my friend and sister, Sue pointed out.) There is safety. There is liberation. All that you need is in Him.
Psalm 33:5
The LORD loves righteousness and justice; the earth is full of his unfailing love.
Psalm 33:22
May your unfailing love rest upon us, O LORD, even as we put our hope in you.
Our understanding will fall short without the wisdom of God.
Trust in the lord with all your heart, and don't lean on your own understanding. Acknowledge Him in ALL your ways and HE will direct your paths.
God is not mocked. He searches our hearts and knows the intents. Turn your heart to HIM. Allow Him to touch it deeply and find a habitation.
Grayce Pedulla Dillon © 2010
www.GrayceDillon.com
Joy, Joy, Joy!
1 Thessalonians 5:16 Be joyful always;
Joy has nothing at all to do with circumstances. Circumstances change daily, and for some, even hourly. What of the family who has returned to the home from attending church, to find their home and all contents burned to the ground? Or the devoted parents who lose their child to a deadly collision or at the hands of a maniac rapist murderer? When it seemingly can't get any worse, people in such dire circumstances have found hope, and peace, and even joy.
How often we've looked at others, who have endured tragedy and hardship and see the strength to carry on, as we might wonder, "how do they do it?" We can not see into the hearts of all, however we learn great truths from the words the lord has preserved all these centuries.
In spite of great opposition, and sufferings Paul the apostle determined to press on and fulfill his call and mission, to preach the gospel. He was imprisoned, abandoned but those whom he loved and trusted, and had many reasons to lose his joy. If he had he would not have walked in victory. He encouraged Timothy to endure in spite of what was surely to come. 2 Timothy 4:3 For the time will come when men will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear. 4They will turn their ears away from the truth and turn aside to myths. 5But you, keep your head in all situations, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, discharge all the duties of your ministry."
Skipping ahead we see how easy it would have been for Paul to be discouraged, and not have joy.
9Do your best to come to me quickly, 10for Demas, because he loved this world, has deserted me and has gone to Thessalonica. Crescens has gone to Galatia, and Titus to Dalmatia. ...
14Alexander the metalworker did me a great deal of harm. The Lord will repay him for what he has done. 15You too should be on your guard against him, because he strongly opposed our message.
16At my first defense, no one came to my support, but everyone deserted me. May it not be held against them. 17But the Lord stood at my side and gave me strength, so that through me the message might be fully proclaimed and all the Gentiles might hear it. And I was delivered from the lion's mouth. 18The Lord will rescue me from every evil attack and will bring me safely to his heavenly kingdom. To him be glory for ever and ever. Amen.
Paul never trusted in his own strength but in the lord. And because his dependency was on the lord, and HIS strength, he was able to walk out his faith in joy, amidst unspeakable hardship.
We are told repeatedly in scripture to sing for joy, to shout for joy, and as we do this in obedience to HIM we will find it manifesting in our lives. We are not a circumstance driven people. NO we are a people who have hope, and faith in the living God. Rejoice! Rejoice.
Luke 6:20 Looking at his disciples, he said:
"Blessed are you who are poor,
for yours is the kingdom of God.
21Blessed are you who hunger now,
for you will be satisfied.
Blessed are you who weep now,
for you will laugh.
22Blessed are you when men hate you,
when they exclude you and insult you
and reject your name as evil, because of the Son of Man.
23"Rejoice in that day and leap for joy, because great is your reward in heaven. For that is how their fathers treated the prophets.
Grayce Pedulla Dillon © 2010
Joy has nothing at all to do with circumstances. Circumstances change daily, and for some, even hourly. What of the family who has returned to the home from attending church, to find their home and all contents burned to the ground? Or the devoted parents who lose their child to a deadly collision or at the hands of a maniac rapist murderer? When it seemingly can't get any worse, people in such dire circumstances have found hope, and peace, and even joy.
How often we've looked at others, who have endured tragedy and hardship and see the strength to carry on, as we might wonder, "how do they do it?" We can not see into the hearts of all, however we learn great truths from the words the lord has preserved all these centuries.
In spite of great opposition, and sufferings Paul the apostle determined to press on and fulfill his call and mission, to preach the gospel. He was imprisoned, abandoned but those whom he loved and trusted, and had many reasons to lose his joy. If he had he would not have walked in victory. He encouraged Timothy to endure in spite of what was surely to come. 2 Timothy 4:3 For the time will come when men will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear. 4They will turn their ears away from the truth and turn aside to myths. 5But you, keep your head in all situations, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, discharge all the duties of your ministry."
Skipping ahead we see how easy it would have been for Paul to be discouraged, and not have joy.
9Do your best to come to me quickly, 10for Demas, because he loved this world, has deserted me and has gone to Thessalonica. Crescens has gone to Galatia, and Titus to Dalmatia. ...
14Alexander the metalworker did me a great deal of harm. The Lord will repay him for what he has done. 15You too should be on your guard against him, because he strongly opposed our message.
16At my first defense, no one came to my support, but everyone deserted me. May it not be held against them. 17But the Lord stood at my side and gave me strength, so that through me the message might be fully proclaimed and all the Gentiles might hear it. And I was delivered from the lion's mouth. 18The Lord will rescue me from every evil attack and will bring me safely to his heavenly kingdom. To him be glory for ever and ever. Amen.
Paul never trusted in his own strength but in the lord. And because his dependency was on the lord, and HIS strength, he was able to walk out his faith in joy, amidst unspeakable hardship.
We are told repeatedly in scripture to sing for joy, to shout for joy, and as we do this in obedience to HIM we will find it manifesting in our lives. We are not a circumstance driven people. NO we are a people who have hope, and faith in the living God. Rejoice! Rejoice.
Luke 6:20 Looking at his disciples, he said:
"Blessed are you who are poor,
for yours is the kingdom of God.
21Blessed are you who hunger now,
for you will be satisfied.
Blessed are you who weep now,
for you will laugh.
22Blessed are you when men hate you,
when they exclude you and insult you
and reject your name as evil, because of the Son of Man.
23"Rejoice in that day and leap for joy, because great is your reward in heaven. For that is how their fathers treated the prophets.
Grayce Pedulla Dillon © 2010
Rejoice in the lord always!!!
Grayce Pedulla Dillon © 2010
www.GrayceDillon.com
Seek FIRST...
Seek ye first the kingdom of God and His righteousness
Bible in Basic English
But let your first care be for his kingdom and his righteousness; and all these other things will be given to you in addition.
I am only going to focus on one part of this scripture, today, and that is to SEEK FIRST.
He created us and is well aware of all that we need to sustain the flesh, here in this life. That is not an issue. What I am seeking truth on, and will share what I feel the Holy Spirit has impressed upon my heart is that “seeking the kingdom of God and His righteousness” is an ongoing activity.
Okay, so the first thing I did this morning when I awakened from my slumber was to say “Have your way in me, and work through me this day, Lord.” Many of you do the same. That is a good start however, I’m sensing that throughout that same day, the lord desires me to continue to put the Kingdom, and HIS righteousness first. It’s not as if I gave Him my first few moments and now I can proceed to do all that my flesh would want to do, without regard to how I may sow seeds into the Kingdom of God.
Romans 8:5 "Those who live according to the sinful nature have their minds set on what that nature desires; but those who live in accordance with the Spirit have their minds set on what the Spirit desires. 6 The mind of sinful man is death, but the mind controlled by the Spirit is life and peace; 7 the sinful mind is hostile to God. It does not submit to God's law, nor can it do so. 8 Those controlled by the sinful nature cannot please God."
I know I am free to pursue anything. Our Father has given us free will, right from the beginning, in the garden. I am free to put anything I want in first place, top priority. My priority may be to photograph nature, or plan a vacation, or succeed in a career. One may determine to fight for their mortal body, and buff it up to look better than anyone else’s. Many are very disciplined in this area, and there is nothing wrong with it. However heed the admonishment here:
1 Timothy 4:8 for bodily discipline is only of little profit, but godliness is profitable for all things, since it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come.
If I choose to be a follower of Christ, that has become my top priority and it is what I will seek to accomplish, first, and above all else. Not only the first time slot in my agenda, but that the advancement of the Kingdom becomes foremost in my thoughts and actions.
It is not by works we are saved, it is the grace of God. I am not working for my salvation. I already have that. I am laboring, with co-laborers to bring glory to our God. I've set my mind to seek what the Spirit desires. This is not only profitable for the Kingdom but also for me!
Ex 20:5 I the LORD your God, am a jealous God...” Notice that God is jealous when someone gives to another something that rightly belongs to Him. This is not the same kind of jealousy a person may feel when they desire something another has that they don’t. It may be possessions, or charisma, or a spiritual gift, that a person is jealous of. But Jesus purchased your redemption and you are now are part of the family of God. A citizen of the Kingdom of God. You belong to HIM. If you give yourself to worship anything else, He is jealous. No one can serve two masters. You can not idolize your own flesh, by seeking pleasure and comfort over HIM, and expect to reap anything of true value. You are free to do it. God does not hold you captive. He wants you to love HIM in return, freely. It is a sin (as God points out in this commandment) to worship or serve anything other than God.
So "if we love the world and the things of the world, the love of God is not in us" (I John 2:15). Loving God is putting His will first. There is no greater joy than seeking His will first. He wants what is best for you. The lord Jesus Christ is seated at the right hand of God the father making intercession for you. There is no intent for our Father to make us miserable, and to not enjoy the life He has given us. He’s not looking to take away all your fun. He wants you free from the yoke of bondage. The cares and anxieties will weigh you down.
1 Peter 5:7
Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you. Give all your
worries and cares to God, for he cares about you. Our God has no desire to see you live in need and want, lacking. He cares. He truly, truly cares.
When you make a decision to put HIM first, and call upon HIM to direct you, not for self gain but for HIS purposes, all these things will be added unto you.
(Psalm145:18) says, "The Lord is near unto all them all them that call upon Him." He makes the paths straight for us and guides us, always leading us in the way we should go.
God requires us to seek with all our hearts, while He may be found. First…seek HIM first.
Bible in Basic English
But let your first care be for his kingdom and his righteousness; and all these other things will be given to you in addition.
I am only going to focus on one part of this scripture, today, and that is to SEEK FIRST.
He created us and is well aware of all that we need to sustain the flesh, here in this life. That is not an issue. What I am seeking truth on, and will share what I feel the Holy Spirit has impressed upon my heart is that “seeking the kingdom of God and His righteousness” is an ongoing activity.
Okay, so the first thing I did this morning when I awakened from my slumber was to say “Have your way in me, and work through me this day, Lord.” Many of you do the same. That is a good start however, I’m sensing that throughout that same day, the lord desires me to continue to put the Kingdom, and HIS righteousness first. It’s not as if I gave Him my first few moments and now I can proceed to do all that my flesh would want to do, without regard to how I may sow seeds into the Kingdom of God.
Romans 8:5 "Those who live according to the sinful nature have their minds set on what that nature desires; but those who live in accordance with the Spirit have their minds set on what the Spirit desires. 6 The mind of sinful man is death, but the mind controlled by the Spirit is life and peace; 7 the sinful mind is hostile to God. It does not submit to God's law, nor can it do so. 8 Those controlled by the sinful nature cannot please God."
I know I am free to pursue anything. Our Father has given us free will, right from the beginning, in the garden. I am free to put anything I want in first place, top priority. My priority may be to photograph nature, or plan a vacation, or succeed in a career. One may determine to fight for their mortal body, and buff it up to look better than anyone else’s. Many are very disciplined in this area, and there is nothing wrong with it. However heed the admonishment here:
1 Timothy 4:8 for bodily discipline is only of little profit, but godliness is profitable for all things, since it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come.
If I choose to be a follower of Christ, that has become my top priority and it is what I will seek to accomplish, first, and above all else. Not only the first time slot in my agenda, but that the advancement of the Kingdom becomes foremost in my thoughts and actions.
It is not by works we are saved, it is the grace of God. I am not working for my salvation. I already have that. I am laboring, with co-laborers to bring glory to our God. I've set my mind to seek what the Spirit desires. This is not only profitable for the Kingdom but also for me!
Ex 20:5 I the LORD your God, am a jealous God...” Notice that God is jealous when someone gives to another something that rightly belongs to Him. This is not the same kind of jealousy a person may feel when they desire something another has that they don’t. It may be possessions, or charisma, or a spiritual gift, that a person is jealous of. But Jesus purchased your redemption and you are now are part of the family of God. A citizen of the Kingdom of God. You belong to HIM. If you give yourself to worship anything else, He is jealous. No one can serve two masters. You can not idolize your own flesh, by seeking pleasure and comfort over HIM, and expect to reap anything of true value. You are free to do it. God does not hold you captive. He wants you to love HIM in return, freely. It is a sin (as God points out in this commandment) to worship or serve anything other than God.
So "if we love the world and the things of the world, the love of God is not in us" (I John 2:15). Loving God is putting His will first. There is no greater joy than seeking His will first. He wants what is best for you. The lord Jesus Christ is seated at the right hand of God the father making intercession for you. There is no intent for our Father to make us miserable, and to not enjoy the life He has given us. He’s not looking to take away all your fun. He wants you free from the yoke of bondage. The cares and anxieties will weigh you down.
1 Peter 5:7
Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you. Give all your
worries and cares to God, for he cares about you. Our God has no desire to see you live in need and want, lacking. He cares. He truly, truly cares.
When you make a decision to put HIM first, and call upon HIM to direct you, not for self gain but for HIS purposes, all these things will be added unto you.
(Psalm145:18) says, "The Lord is near unto all them all them that call upon Him." He makes the paths straight for us and guides us, always leading us in the way we should go.
God requires us to seek with all our hearts, while He may be found. First…seek HIM first.
Be Still
New Living Translation (©2007)
"Be still, and know that I am God! I will be honored by every nation. I will be honored throughout the world."
To be perfectly candid, I struggle with stillness. By nature, I tend to involve myself in busyness, and consistently impose multitasks upon myself. Something within me feels like I must be accomplishing. If there is one scripture that I have taken and run with, and perhaps distorted in my mind, it is:
“See then that you walk circumspectly, not as fools but
as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil.
Therefore do not be unwise, but understand what
the will of the Lord is.” Ephesians 5:15-17
His word is true, always, but everything needs to be in balance to function properly. Being still is refreshing, and allows my mind and heart to receive. Giving is a great thing, and I love pouring out and giving to others. It is so blessed. At the same time, I am learning to be still and receive from the lord.
At my own expense I just had a good chuckle, since this concept of being still is one I’ve been trying to apply for many years. Inroads have been made, but still He continues His work in me.
There will always be distractions, things we can busy ourselves with, but being still is an exercise that always pays off. Meditating on HIS word will allow it to take root, and bare fruit.
“God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth does change” (Psalm 46:1-2a). Hallelujah! The earth is constantly changing. God never changes. I will be still and know HE is God, redeeming my time.
Grayce Pedulla Dillon © 2010
"Be still, and know that I am God! I will be honored by every nation. I will be honored throughout the world."
To be perfectly candid, I struggle with stillness. By nature, I tend to involve myself in busyness, and consistently impose multitasks upon myself. Something within me feels like I must be accomplishing. If there is one scripture that I have taken and run with, and perhaps distorted in my mind, it is:
“See then that you walk circumspectly, not as fools but
as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil.
Therefore do not be unwise, but understand what
the will of the Lord is.” Ephesians 5:15-17
His word is true, always, but everything needs to be in balance to function properly. Being still is refreshing, and allows my mind and heart to receive. Giving is a great thing, and I love pouring out and giving to others. It is so blessed. At the same time, I am learning to be still and receive from the lord.
At my own expense I just had a good chuckle, since this concept of being still is one I’ve been trying to apply for many years. Inroads have been made, but still He continues His work in me.
There will always be distractions, things we can busy ourselves with, but being still is an exercise that always pays off. Meditating on HIS word will allow it to take root, and bare fruit.
“God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth does change” (Psalm 46:1-2a). Hallelujah! The earth is constantly changing. God never changes. I will be still and know HE is God, redeeming my time.
Grayce Pedulla Dillon © 2010
Speak Blessing
The following is a compilation of notes I have gleaned from various sources, to share at the Tuesday Night Mom's group, I am overseeing. Perhaps someone here may benefit. <3 +
The Power of Spoken Blessings
Throughout Scripture, the importance of verbal blessings is expressed. In four New Testament books, God gives us direct instruction to bless those who curse and revile us. Obeying this instruction produces results that are not expected by the one who gave the curse or the one who was cursed.
A verbal blessing is made up of three powerful forces: our words, God’s Word, and God’s name. The power of our words alone is affirmed by the Scripture that states, “Death and life are in the power of the tongue” (Proverbs 18:21).
With verbal blessings, the tongue has an even greater potential for good, because a blessing can overcome a curse just as light is stronger than darkness.
Speaking a verbal blessing can even help parents during times of child discipline. By blessing the child, the parents will be greatly helped in overcoming any anger or frustration, and will instead have a spirit of patience and love. The blessing should emphasize God’s love for the child and His great purposes for him or her.
God wants a relationship with you. He wants a family. He is our Father, and like all good parents, He wants to bless you and your children. God does have a purpose and plan for your life.
Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof. Prov 18:21
Many times, we pray one thing, such as asking God to heal us, and then almost immediately say the opposite. If our words of prayer have power to bring about that which we are praying for, what makes us think that the words we say when we leave our prayer closet don't?
All words are spiritual seeds. As such, they are intended to bring forth a harvest. The type harvest they bring about depends upon the type of seed they are. Any farmer knows that you don't plant carrot seeds if you are looking for a harvest of corn. No, you plant carrot seeds to receive carrots, and corn seeds to receive corn.
Psalm 139:13-18 (New International Version)
13 For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb. 14 I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. 15 My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place. When I was woven together in the depths of the earth, 16 your eyes saw my unformed body. All the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be.
How to Bless Your Children
By Priszack
A Parent's Blessing over one's children is powerful, most people are yet to realize it's significance. The Bible talk's about Fathers blessing their children and thus speaking destiny into their lives. It is simple to do and can be done everyday.
Difficulty: Easy
Instructions
Things You'll Need:
• 5 minutes with your child
Bless them with protection
Blessing your child can be done as soon as they wake up or when they go to bed. Our family does it just before we venture out every morning.
What you envision for your child to excel and succeed is what you want to pray over them. So put your hand on their head and pray a blessing.
Here is what we pray: Jesus, let them be blessed and highly favored, they will lack no good thing, give them wisdom and understanding, good health and a long life, let them fulfill their destiny, they will be the head and not the tail, above and not beneath, first and not the last, lender and not a borrower. They will have the tongue of the learned, the mind of Christ, the blessings of Abraham and the Anointing of Jesus. Cover them with the blood of Jesus, the enemy and his plans will be thwarted etc.. etc..
You can personalize your blessings over your children.
See the difference it will make in everything they do. Eastern cultures have understood the power of a parent's blessing and they put their hands on the child's head and give their blessings. You can speak life and blessings over your children. Try it!
Psalm 127:3 (New American Standard Bible)
3Behold, children are a gift of the LORD,
The fruit of the womb is a reward.
Speak to your children that they are a gift of the lord. Reaffirm that the lord sent them and you are glad. Speak it, speak it, speak it.
Ephesians 6:4 (New International Version)
4Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord.
Here’s a good article online, by Joel Osteen.
http://www.joelosteen.com/
The Power of Spoken Blessings
Throughout Scripture, the importance of verbal blessings is expressed. In four New Testament books, God gives us direct instruction to bless those who curse and revile us. Obeying this instruction produces results that are not expected by the one who gave the curse or the one who was cursed.
A verbal blessing is made up of three powerful forces: our words, God’s Word, and God’s name. The power of our words alone is affirmed by the Scripture that states, “Death and life are in the power of the tongue” (Proverbs 18:21).
With verbal blessings, the tongue has an even greater potential for good, because a blessing can overcome a curse just as light is stronger than darkness.
Speaking a verbal blessing can even help parents during times of child discipline. By blessing the child, the parents will be greatly helped in overcoming any anger or frustration, and will instead have a spirit of patience and love. The blessing should emphasize God’s love for the child and His great purposes for him or her.
God wants a relationship with you. He wants a family. He is our Father, and like all good parents, He wants to bless you and your children. God does have a purpose and plan for your life.
Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof. Prov 18:21
Many times, we pray one thing, such as asking God to heal us, and then almost immediately say the opposite. If our words of prayer have power to bring about that which we are praying for, what makes us think that the words we say when we leave our prayer closet don't?
All words are spiritual seeds. As such, they are intended to bring forth a harvest. The type harvest they bring about depends upon the type of seed they are. Any farmer knows that you don't plant carrot seeds if you are looking for a harvest of corn. No, you plant carrot seeds to receive carrots, and corn seeds to receive corn.
Psalm 139:13-18 (New International Version)
13 For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb. 14 I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. 15 My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place. When I was woven together in the depths of the earth, 16 your eyes saw my unformed body. All the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be.
How to Bless Your Children
By Priszack
A Parent's Blessing over one's children is powerful, most people are yet to realize it's significance. The Bible talk's about Fathers blessing their children and thus speaking destiny into their lives. It is simple to do and can be done everyday.
Difficulty: Easy
Instructions
Things You'll Need:
• 5 minutes with your child
Bless them with protection
Blessing your child can be done as soon as they wake up or when they go to bed. Our family does it just before we venture out every morning.
What you envision for your child to excel and succeed is what you want to pray over them. So put your hand on their head and pray a blessing.
Here is what we pray: Jesus, let them be blessed and highly favored, they will lack no good thing, give them wisdom and understanding, good health and a long life, let them fulfill their destiny, they will be the head and not the tail, above and not beneath, first and not the last, lender and not a borrower. They will have the tongue of the learned, the mind of Christ, the blessings of Abraham and the Anointing of Jesus. Cover them with the blood of Jesus, the enemy and his plans will be thwarted etc.. etc..
You can personalize your blessings over your children.
See the difference it will make in everything they do. Eastern cultures have understood the power of a parent's blessing and they put their hands on the child's head and give their blessings. You can speak life and blessings over your children. Try it!
Psalm 127:3 (New American Standard Bible)
3Behold, children are a gift of the LORD,
The fruit of the womb is a reward.
Speak to your children that they are a gift of the lord. Reaffirm that the lord sent them and you are glad. Speak it, speak it, speak it.
Ephesians 6:4 (New International Version)
4Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord.
Here’s a good article online, by Joel Osteen.
http://www.joelosteen.com/
Do NOT Lose Heart
2 Corinthians 41Therefore, since through God’s mercy we have this ministry, we do not lose heart. 2Rather, we have renounced secret and shameful ways; we do not use deception, nor do we distort the word of God. On the contrary, by setting forth the truth plainly we commend ourselves to every man’s conscience in the sight of God. 3And even if our gospel is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing. 4The god of this age has blinded the minds of unbelievers, so that they cannot see the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God. 5For we do not preach ourselves, but Jesus Christ as Lord, and ourselves as your servants for Jesus’ sake. 6For God, who said, “Let light shine out of darkness,”a made his light shine in our hearts to give us the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Christ.
7But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us. 8We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; 9persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed.
We have all been given the ministry of reconciliation, and equipped with the word of reconciliation. We must determine in our hearts NEVER to distort the word of God, and present it plainly. God knows none of us are perfected jars of clay, but regardless of the vessel, the word is ALWAYS true. It is plain, and does not change. Don't look at the vessel, but look at the living water being poured out.
The word is veiled to some, their eyes being blinded by the god of this world. We do preach about or receive glory to ourselves, but preach Jesus Christ to the glory of God our father.
So this treasure that you have, pour it out. Let it shine. Speak forth the word of God. NEVER condemn anyone. We are not yet called to judge. Speak the word in truth and love which has the power to pierce the heart and draw people to the living, loving lord. "this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us." We will meet with resistance but "greater is He that is in you than he that is in the world." We are NOT crushed, in despair, abandoned, nor destroyed.
Let's pray for one another.
Father I pray that your word would take root in our hearts as we consistently give ourselves to you. That you would be glorified and our flesh would not receive any of the glory. Although we encourage each other lord, to press on and fight the good fight, we give you the glory for what you are doing in and through each of us, as we submit.
Father we thank you that you have given us the whole armor of God to withstand every attack and that even though we battle against spiritual wickedness, you give the victory to all who call upon your name. We thank you for your protection and deliverance for us and our families.
In Jesus' name.
Grayce Pedulla Dillon © 2010
7But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us. 8We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; 9persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed.
We have all been given the ministry of reconciliation, and equipped with the word of reconciliation. We must determine in our hearts NEVER to distort the word of God, and present it plainly. God knows none of us are perfected jars of clay, but regardless of the vessel, the word is ALWAYS true. It is plain, and does not change. Don't look at the vessel, but look at the living water being poured out.
The word is veiled to some, their eyes being blinded by the god of this world. We do preach about or receive glory to ourselves, but preach Jesus Christ to the glory of God our father.
So this treasure that you have, pour it out. Let it shine. Speak forth the word of God. NEVER condemn anyone. We are not yet called to judge. Speak the word in truth and love which has the power to pierce the heart and draw people to the living, loving lord. "this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us." We will meet with resistance but "greater is He that is in you than he that is in the world." We are NOT crushed, in despair, abandoned, nor destroyed.
Let's pray for one another.
Father I pray that your word would take root in our hearts as we consistently give ourselves to you. That you would be glorified and our flesh would not receive any of the glory. Although we encourage each other lord, to press on and fight the good fight, we give you the glory for what you are doing in and through each of us, as we submit.
Father we thank you that you have given us the whole armor of God to withstand every attack and that even though we battle against spiritual wickedness, you give the victory to all who call upon your name. We thank you for your protection and deliverance for us and our families.
In Jesus' name.
Grayce Pedulla Dillon © 2010
Conduct Worthy of the Fellowship
As sure as rain falls on the just and unjust, there will be unbelievers to oppose the word of God and YOU if you are sharing the good news.
Phil 1: 27 Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Then, whether I come and see you or only hear about you in my absence, I will know that you stand firm in one spirit, contending as one man for the faith of the gospel 28 without being frightened in any way by those who oppose you
Here Paul is exhorting the church to stand strong in spite of external opposition.
The following passage, however, deals with how we are to conduct ourselves within the fellowship. (Fellowship is the ancient Greek word koinonia. It means the sharing of things in common, communing with one another. It occurs 20 times in the Bible.)
Philippians 2:1 If you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any fellowship (Koinonia) with the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, 2 then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same (agape) love, being one in spirit and purpose. 3 Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. (Do nothing from rivalry or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves.) 4 Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others.5 Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus It goes on to explain that even though Christ was equal with God, HE became a bond servant all the way to the cross, for us. (Philippians 2:8).
Paul is asking rhetorical questions in Phil 2:1. He knew that of course the truth is we do have all those things mentioned in verse 1, if we are born again of spirit. We are then admonished to be like-minded. What does that mean? Read on to v.2. We are to have the same love and be in one spirit and purpose, unity of purpose.
The root of the Christian heart is this agape and it comes to fruition as we grow and mature in HIM. [4] Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. [5] It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. [6] Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. [7] It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.
Colossians 2:2 I want them to be encouraged and knit together by strong ties of love. (Agape)
John 17:23 Jesus said ”I am in them, and you are in me. So they are completely united. In this way the world knows that you have sent me and that you have loved them in the same way you have loved me.” GOD'S WORD Translation
He also said in John 13:35 35By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another." (New International Version)
Ephesians 4:16 … when each part is working properly, makes the body grow so that it builds itself up in love. English Standard Version
During this day, I would encourage all of us to consider some practical ways by which we may demonstrate love, unity, and fellowship. How can we display that our hearts are knit together in love?
We have the mind of Christ because we have the Holy Spirit indwelling us. 1Corinthians 2:16
For further study, here are some scriptures that remind us of how we are to treat one another based on Koinonia, in Agape love:
Are we living in harmony with one another (Romans 12:16; 1 Peter 3:8), We should be kind and compassionate to one another (Ephesians 4:32), Let us accept one another (Romans 15:7), and of course serve one another in love (Galatians 5:13), It is important to admonish one another (Colossians 3:16), And don’t forget to encourage one another (1 Thessalonians 5:11; Hebrews 3:13), exhort one another to love and good deeds (Hebrews 10:24), and it is all evidence of loving one another (1 Peter 1:22; 1 John 3:11; 3:23; 4:7; 4:11-12). Do we honor one another? (Romans 12:10), Are we devoted to one another? (Romans 12:10), be hospitable (1 Peter 4:9),
Grayce Pedulla Dillon © 2010
Phil 1: 27Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Then, whether I come and see you or only hear about you in my absence, I will know that you stand firm in one spirit, contending as one man for the faith of the gospel 28without being frightened in any way by those who oppose you.
Phil 1: 27 Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Then, whether I come and see you or only hear about you in my absence, I will know that you stand firm in one spirit, contending as one man for the faith of the gospel 28 without being frightened in any way by those who oppose you
Here Paul is exhorting the church to stand strong in spite of external opposition.
The following passage, however, deals with how we are to conduct ourselves within the fellowship. (Fellowship is the ancient Greek word koinonia. It means the sharing of things in common, communing with one another. It occurs 20 times in the Bible.)
Philippians 2:1 If you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any fellowship (Koinonia) with the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, 2 then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same (agape) love, being one in spirit and purpose. 3 Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. (Do nothing from rivalry or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves.) 4 Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others.5 Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus It goes on to explain that even though Christ was equal with God, HE became a bond servant all the way to the cross, for us. (Philippians 2:8).
Paul is asking rhetorical questions in Phil 2:1. He knew that of course the truth is we do have all those things mentioned in verse 1, if we are born again of spirit. We are then admonished to be like-minded. What does that mean? Read on to v.2. We are to have the same love and be in one spirit and purpose, unity of purpose.
The root of the Christian heart is this agape and it comes to fruition as we grow and mature in HIM. [4] Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. [5] It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. [6] Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. [7] It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.
Colossians 2:2 I want them to be encouraged and knit together by strong ties of love. (Agape)
John 17:23 Jesus said ”I am in them, and you are in me. So they are completely united. In this way the world knows that you have sent me and that you have loved them in the same way you have loved me.” GOD'S WORD Translation
He also said in John 13:35 35By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another." (New International Version)
Ephesians 4:16 … when each part is working properly, makes the body grow so that it builds itself up in love. English Standard Version
During this day, I would encourage all of us to consider some practical ways by which we may demonstrate love, unity, and fellowship. How can we display that our hearts are knit together in love?
We have the mind of Christ because we have the Holy Spirit indwelling us. 1Corinthians 2:16
For further study, here are some scriptures that remind us of how we are to treat one another based on Koinonia, in Agape love:
Are we living in harmony with one another (Romans 12:16; 1 Peter 3:8), We should be kind and compassionate to one another (Ephesians 4:32), Let us accept one another (Romans 15:7), and of course serve one another in love (Galatians 5:13), It is important to admonish one another (Colossians 3:16), And don’t forget to encourage one another (1 Thessalonians 5:11; Hebrews 3:13), exhort one another to love and good deeds (Hebrews 10:24), and it is all evidence of loving one another (1 Peter 1:22; 1 John 3:11; 3:23; 4:7; 4:11-12). Do we honor one another? (Romans 12:10), Are we devoted to one another? (Romans 12:10), be hospitable (1 Peter 4:9),
Grayce Pedulla Dillon © 2010
Phil 1: 27Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Then, whether I come and see you or only hear about you in my absence, I will know that you stand firm in one spirit, contending as one man for the faith of the gospel 28without being frightened in any way by those who oppose you.
Sooo, fellowship was sweet, but we were still freezing. We just huddled close. We met in a block building without heat. This is FLORIDA!!!
See the Marvels of God
Plsalm 46:8-10 Attention, all! See the marvels of God!
He plants flowers and trees all over the earth,
Bans war from pole to pole,
breaks all the weapons across his knee.
"Step out of the traffic! Take a long,
loving look at me, your High God,
above politics, above everything."
1-3 God is a safe place to hide, ready to help when we need him.
We stand fearless at the cliff-edge of doom,
courageous in seastorm and earthquake,
Before the rush and roar of oceans,
the tremors that shift mountains.
He plants flowers and trees all over the earth,
Bans war from pole to pole,
breaks all the weapons across his knee.
"Step out of the traffic! Take a long,
loving look at me, your High God,
above politics, above everything."
1-3 God is a safe place to hide, ready to help when we need him.
We stand fearless at the cliff-edge of doom,
courageous in seastorm and earthquake,
Before the rush and roar of oceans,
the tremors that shift mountains.
Art Work by Me
Blue Ridge Mountains www.graycedillon.com
Grayce Pedulla Dillon © 2010
Gossip and Slander...A Scriptural Perspective
Perhaps you have been a victim of slander. If you've ever learned of lies being spoken against you, then you can relate to David's heart, as he cried out to God.
”O God, whom I praise,
don’t stand silent and aloof
2 while the wicked slander me
and tell lies about me.
3 They surround me with hateful words
and fight against me for no reason.
4 I love them, but they try to destroy me with accusations
even as I am praying for them!
5 They repay evil for good,
and hatred for my love. “ Psalm 109:1-5
David’s heart was heavy because he was being slandered by someone he loved, and prayed for. Although your experience of being slandered against and /or gossiped about, may not have been by someone you love, I’m sure it still hurt. Beloved, we must be clear about how we may hurt others by participating in such behavior. It is essential that we cease from such ugliness, even for our own spiritual health.
Do a bit of research in the scriptures about holding your tongue. Proverbs is especially full of wisdom on the subject, but it is sprinkled throughout the word of God.
Proverbs 6:16-19 (New Living Translation)
16 There are six things the LORD hates—
no, seven things he detests:
17 haughty eyes,
a lying tongue,
hands that kill the innocent,
18 a heart that plots evil,
feet that race to do wrong,
19 a false witness who pours out lies,
a person who sows discord in a family.
Bible in Basic English
James 2:12-13 "Talk and act like a person expecting to be judged by the Rule that sets us free. For if you refuse to act kindly, you can hardly expect to be treated kindly. Kind mercy wins over harsh judgment every time."
James 3 Twisting the truth to make yourselves sound wise isn't wisdom. It's the furthest thing from wisdom—it's animal cunning, devilish conniving. Whenever you're trying to look better than others or get the better of others, things fall apart and everyone ends up at the others' throats.
17-18Real wisdom, God's wisdom, begins with a holy life and is characterized by getting along with others. It is gentle and reasonable, overflowing with mercy and blessings, not hot one day and cold the next, not two-faced. You can develop a healthy, robust community that lives right with God and enjoy its results only if you do the hard work of getting along with each other, treating each other with dignity and honor.
“James 4 11-12Don't bad-mouth each other, friends. It's God's Word, his Message, his Royal Rule, that takes a beating in that kind of talk. You're supposed to be honoring the Message, not writing graffiti all over it. God is in charge of deciding human destiny. Who do you think you are to meddle in the destiny of others?”
If we truly understood the judgment that we each deserve from God, we would be less inclined to judge others.
We would not be too quick to gossip about and judge others if we really understood the judgment that we are bringing upon ourselves. We are accountable for our words.
Matthew 7:2 "God will be as hard on you as you are on others! He will treat you exactly as you treat them" Jesus
James 5:9 "Friends, don't complain about each other. A far greater complaint could be lodged against you, you know. The Judge is standing just around the corner."
Proverbs 25:19 “Trusting a double-crosser when you're in trouble is like biting down on an abscessed tooth. “ MSG
"Do not speak evil of one another, brethren. He who speaks evil of a brother and judges his brother, speaks evil of the law and judges the law. But if you judge the law, you are not a doer of the law but a judge. There is one Lawgiver, who is able to save and destroy. Who are you to judge another?" (James 4:11,12).
On the other hand, if you were correct and the person's words or actions have in some way caused you, or another, harm, then that person is given the opportunity to repent. Scripture gives further instruction concerning the course to take if the person does not repent (Matthew 18:16,17).
Matthew 7:1-2 (The Message)
A Simple Guide for Behavior
1-5 "Don't pick on people, jump on their failures, criticize their faults— unless, of course, you want the same treatment. That critical spirit has a way of boomeranging. It's easy to see a smudge on your neighbor's face and be oblivious to the ugly sneer on your own. Do you have the nerve to say, 'Let me wash your face for you,' when your own face is distorted by contempt? It's this whole traveling road-show mentality all over again, playing a holier-than-thou part instead of just living your part. Wipe that ugly sneer off your own face, and you might be fit to offer a washcloth to your neighbor.
“We slander when we ascribe wrong motives to people, even though we can’t see their hearts or know their particular circumstances. We slander when we blow out of proportion another person’s sin and make that person to be more sinful that he or she really is.”
– Jerry Bridges
God is not mocked and He will defend those being falsely accused, or gossiped about. This warning is for those who are partaking in behavior that is detestable to God. Psalm 140:12 (The Message)
“To gossip means to reveal or discuss personal facts about another person for no legitimate purpose; it often betrays a confidence.” – Ken Sande
When you find yourself gossiping, repent at once so that God will forgive you of this terrible, destructive sin. Gossip has its roots in jealousy, hate and self-pride. As with hate, you remove the person who is the object of your gossip from the love you should be showing (1 John 2:9,11; 3:15). As a result, you are murdering the person in your heart.
“Psalm 140:12-13 I know that you, God, are on the side of victims,
that you care for the rights of the poor.
And I know that the righteous personally thank you,
that good people are secure in your presence.”
I am determined to not even give an ear to gossip and slander. If you come to me with words about someone who is not present, unless they are praiseworthy, I will politely need to tell you that I will not participate. This has offended some but I do not want to be judged and I will not judge another.
Grayce Pedulla Dillon © 2010 <3 +
”O God, whom I praise,
don’t stand silent and aloof
2 while the wicked slander me
and tell lies about me.
3 They surround me with hateful words
and fight against me for no reason.
4 I love them, but they try to destroy me with accusations
even as I am praying for them!
5 They repay evil for good,
and hatred for my love. “ Psalm 109:1-5
David’s heart was heavy because he was being slandered by someone he loved, and prayed for. Although your experience of being slandered against and /or gossiped about, may not have been by someone you love, I’m sure it still hurt. Beloved, we must be clear about how we may hurt others by participating in such behavior. It is essential that we cease from such ugliness, even for our own spiritual health.
Do a bit of research in the scriptures about holding your tongue. Proverbs is especially full of wisdom on the subject, but it is sprinkled throughout the word of God.
Proverbs 6:16-19 (New Living Translation)
16 There are six things the LORD hates—
no, seven things he detests:
17 haughty eyes,
a lying tongue,
hands that kill the innocent,
18 a heart that plots evil,
feet that race to do wrong,
19 a false witness who pours out lies,
a person who sows discord in a family.
Bible in Basic English
James 2:12-13 "Talk and act like a person expecting to be judged by the Rule that sets us free. For if you refuse to act kindly, you can hardly expect to be treated kindly. Kind mercy wins over harsh judgment every time."
James 3 Twisting the truth to make yourselves sound wise isn't wisdom. It's the furthest thing from wisdom—it's animal cunning, devilish conniving. Whenever you're trying to look better than others or get the better of others, things fall apart and everyone ends up at the others' throats.
17-18Real wisdom, God's wisdom, begins with a holy life and is characterized by getting along with others. It is gentle and reasonable, overflowing with mercy and blessings, not hot one day and cold the next, not two-faced. You can develop a healthy, robust community that lives right with God and enjoy its results only if you do the hard work of getting along with each other, treating each other with dignity and honor.
“James 4 11-12Don't bad-mouth each other, friends. It's God's Word, his Message, his Royal Rule, that takes a beating in that kind of talk. You're supposed to be honoring the Message, not writing graffiti all over it. God is in charge of deciding human destiny. Who do you think you are to meddle in the destiny of others?”
If we truly understood the judgment that we each deserve from God, we would be less inclined to judge others.
We would not be too quick to gossip about and judge others if we really understood the judgment that we are bringing upon ourselves. We are accountable for our words.
Matthew 7:2 "God will be as hard on you as you are on others! He will treat you exactly as you treat them" Jesus
James 5:9 "Friends, don't complain about each other. A far greater complaint could be lodged against you, you know. The Judge is standing just around the corner."
Proverbs 25:19 “Trusting a double-crosser when you're in trouble is like biting down on an abscessed tooth. “ MSG
"Do not speak evil of one another, brethren. He who speaks evil of a brother and judges his brother, speaks evil of the law and judges the law. But if you judge the law, you are not a doer of the law but a judge. There is one Lawgiver, who is able to save and destroy. Who are you to judge another?" (James 4:11,12).
On the other hand, if you were correct and the person's words or actions have in some way caused you, or another, harm, then that person is given the opportunity to repent. Scripture gives further instruction concerning the course to take if the person does not repent (Matthew 18:16,17).
Matthew 7:1-2 (The Message)
A Simple Guide for Behavior
1-5 "Don't pick on people, jump on their failures, criticize their faults— unless, of course, you want the same treatment. That critical spirit has a way of boomeranging. It's easy to see a smudge on your neighbor's face and be oblivious to the ugly sneer on your own. Do you have the nerve to say, 'Let me wash your face for you,' when your own face is distorted by contempt? It's this whole traveling road-show mentality all over again, playing a holier-than-thou part instead of just living your part. Wipe that ugly sneer off your own face, and you might be fit to offer a washcloth to your neighbor.
“We slander when we ascribe wrong motives to people, even though we can’t see their hearts or know their particular circumstances. We slander when we blow out of proportion another person’s sin and make that person to be more sinful that he or she really is.”
– Jerry Bridges
God is not mocked and He will defend those being falsely accused, or gossiped about. This warning is for those who are partaking in behavior that is detestable to God. Psalm 140:12 (The Message)
“To gossip means to reveal or discuss personal facts about another person for no legitimate purpose; it often betrays a confidence.” – Ken Sande
When you find yourself gossiping, repent at once so that God will forgive you of this terrible, destructive sin. Gossip has its roots in jealousy, hate and self-pride. As with hate, you remove the person who is the object of your gossip from the love you should be showing (1 John 2:9,11; 3:15). As a result, you are murdering the person in your heart.
“Psalm 140:12-13 I know that you, God, are on the side of victims,
that you care for the rights of the poor.
And I know that the righteous personally thank you,
that good people are secure in your presence.”
I am determined to not even give an ear to gossip and slander. If you come to me with words about someone who is not present, unless they are praiseworthy, I will politely need to tell you that I will not participate. This has offended some but I do not want to be judged and I will not judge another.
Grayce Pedulla Dillon © 2010 <3 +
www.GrayceDillon.com
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