Peace from Prison Pt. 3

“I can do all things through Christ which strengthened me” Philippians 4:13.

 

 

This week on Sharin’ Hearts Woman to Woman, Janie and Sharon conclude Philippians Chapter 4 where Paul shares peace from prison with the saint in Philippi.

Peace is not a commodity that we can buy and sell, peace is a person. So what Paul is saying is that he has learned to be content because he knows in whom he has entrusted his life. Many different circumstances have proven that Jesus Christ has always been sufficient. When we develop a solid relationship with God then peace can rule in our hearts. So forming a habit of spending time with God will help us find that close relationship and in that we will know Him, trust Him, and peace is the result.

Christ’s Character

 

“If we are faithless, He remains faithful; He cannot deny Himself.” 2 Timothy 2:13

 

In the season we are living, having a powerful authority you can depend on for
wisdom, in walking through the waters of uncertainty every day, is a tremendous
gift to each one that wants to be a part of God’s family.
God is love and wants those desiring to accept His gift to also accept His purpose
in offering — “all that God is available every man, woman, boy, or girl that is
available to all that God is.”
Knowing His attributes and allowing the Scriptures to mold our thinking prepares
our minds to be transformed into Christ-like character, which is pleasing to the
Father. Let’s take a look at the riches of Christ’s character.

Peace From Prison Pt. 2

“Therefore, my brethren dearly beloved and longed for, my joy and crown, so stand fast in the Lord, my dearly beloved” Philippians 4:1

 

 

This week on Sharin’ Hearts Woman to Woman, Janie and Sharon continue their discussion in Philippians Chapter 4 where Paul shares peace from prison with the saints in Philippi.

Division can cause us to be separated from all that peace has to offer. Paul teaches us how to bring back unity among the brethren.

They take a trip to Revelation Chapter 3 to look at what Jesus said in His letters to the churches. We can get so busy and wrapped up in all that life throws our way that we too can lose our first love.

Sufficient Truth of Scripture

“For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.” Hebrews 4:12

 

The definition of “sufficiency” is adequate to do the purpose intended or to meet a need. 2 Peter defines this as “seeing that His divine power has granted to us everything pertaining to life and godliness through the true knowledge of Him who called us by His own glory and excellence.”
The scripture is the best book for offering guaranteed promises filled with hope, but they also instruct us with rules of accountability. In world culture, we find resistant to authority that demands any control where we want our “freedoms.” Many look at the scripture as being deficient or inadequate. Therefore, they ignore the Bible as being a guide they want to trust.
Let’s do a “fact check” in affirming the Bible is not just an extra accessory to aid our model of living with philosophy and methodology; it is the REAL DEAL

The Method of Preparation

“That I may know him, and the power of His resurrection, and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to His death.” Philippians 3:10

 

That verse presents the highs and lows of our walk here on earth. Parts sound good and parts are so scary and perplexing on how to achieve. KNOWING Jesus Christ is first and many spend their whole lives just getting to know Him, which extends way beyond salvation. 

Knowing HIM and the power of a resurrected life comes before the hard sayings of sharing in the fellowship of HIS suffering. Let’s study today the mind of Christ in understanding His method of preparation so we may run the race as He has equipped us to do and obtain the prize that is waiting for those living by faith.  

Peace From Prison Pt. 1

“Therefore, my brethren dearly beloved and longed for, my joy and crown, so stand fast in the Lord, my dearly beloved” Philippians 4:1.

 

 

This week on Sharin’ Hearts Woman to Woman, Janie and Sharon move into Philippians Chapter four where Paul shares peace from his prison cell with the saints in Philippi.  Paul wants them to know the value of standing fast in the Lord in difficult situations; it would defeat the enemy.

Peace at any price, but we can’t buy peace. Peace is something we all long for but seems to be out of reach. God gives peace in the midst of difficult situations.

 

Characteristics of the Conscience

“Purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God” Hebrews 9:14

 

 

This week on Sharin’ Hearts Woman to Woman, Janie and Sharon continue to dig into understanding the role the conscience plays in our everyday lives.
The conscience is key in aiding our walk with the Lord, finding freedom in Christ, and having ears to hear what the Spirit says. There are many benefits to knowing about the conscience and getting our hearts in tune to hearing the warnings it sends to us.
So, join in the conversation as we discuss the Characteristics of the Conscience.

 

God’s Purpose for Me

 “My little children for whom I labor in birth again until Christ is formed in you.” Galatians 4:19

 

For this verse to be fulfilled we will begin by making sure that we have taken the first step in salvation, a new birth. Then we must move forward in knowing and abiding in fulfilling our purpose for why we are created. As children grow and mature their “mission” in life broadens. Many choices change as they seek PURPOSE. Most start off with a purpose totally satisfying self and this needs a renewing of the mind for realizing purpose in living. Many today are bewildered as to how to discern their reason for existing.

The Lord Jesus knew His purpose from the beginning and always followed His Father’s purpose as His own. This week let’s examine the Scriptures to know what can hinder and what can confirm God’s Purpose for each of us in living at this particular time in history.       

The Challenge of Conversation

“Not that I speak in regards to need for I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content.” Philippians 4:11

 

 

One of the main reasons we do not have great conversations is not knowing how to speak to build one another up, we fail to enjoy a life of contentment. It is very hard to engage one another in a conversation that is truly meaningful without conflict. We dwell on the negatives that are shoved in our faces every time we communicate with news and social media. We bring these issues into the Church life where our goal should be to build one another up, but instead, we discuss the woes that can rob us of quiet contentment. Fears surface rather than faith solidifies. 

Let’s have some challenging conversation on “matters that matter.”

Consent to be Loved

 “But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us” Romans 5:8

 

Knowing who we are and our worth in life is usually determined by outside influences. With divided hearts, and differing opinions that result in confusion most are tossed back and forth in finding some form of acceptance according to performance in relationships and positive circumstances.

If our performance does not solve the problem, we are unsure of what to do next. We succumb to ever-changing conditions. Should repeated failures occur we lose all sense of being stabilized and question how to fix the wrongs or just blame someone else.

If we will consent to being loved and accepted by the Author of love WHO provides assurance of worth to our souls, then the comfort we need is ours, IN CHRIST. Today, we will uncover the reality of facts so our faith can grow. 

Pathway to Hell

“For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead, so that they are without excuse.” Romans 1:20

 

 

God has not left us in ignorance as to the consequences that await us for having live our way and not His.  Ours may offer earthly pleasures for a season but the dangers are horrifying beyond our understanding. 

Let’s enter the courtroom of our final appearance before the Judge, Jesus Christ, and ask the Spirit to open our eyes to His Word revealing a life separated from God and His Son, Jesus Christ, The Pathway to Hell.

 

Does God Accept me?

“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ.” Ephesians 1:3

 

Many people are burdened in knowing if they are accepted in society, home relationships, church fellowships, and workplace surroundings. All of life holds people in tension and insecurity with doubting. Since they have no apparent solution, they create their own false security. 

What does the Creator of all people say about who they are and what is their identify. There is good news for those overwhelmed with questioning God according to His mind and heart. Does God Accept me and if so, on what basis? 

The Gospel of God’s Grace

“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God” John 1:1

 

 

This one statement alone, but with many others, lets us know who wrote the greatest book ever written and that is the Bible. In this information age, it is becoming more difficult to discern what is Truth as opposed to what is just a truth, depending on your point of view. 

See how GRACE gives us all that we need for our travels here as we are called to know the Truth and that is by knowing the AUTHOR of the Truth.

Travel with us back in time to see how knowing the Person known as TRUTH establishes a life of purpose from the Gospel of Grace.

Spiritual Greatness

“My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness. Therefore, I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in needs, in persecutions, in distresses, for Christ’s sake. For when I am weak, then I am strong.” 2 Corinthians 12:9-10

 

One of the beliefs we entertain and promote is the religious lie that to be spiritual and useful in our walk with the Lord as believers, we must be spiritual giants. The greater the gifts, the more powerful the preaching and teaching, and the more popular and well-known our own ministry qualifies us as Christians living with a 4-star approval rating. RUBBISH!

Our Bible is filled with calling our attention to daily dying to self, decreasing in the importance of “MY” ministry, being willing to suffer, and allowing Christ and His character to take center stage in every aspect of our lives.

Settle back in quietly waiting on the Lord for His mind as we look at how God is shaping us into His image through ways that differ from the popular belief that “Bigger is always Better.”

Divine Truths

“I in them, and You in Me, that they may be made perfect in one and the world may know that You have sent me, and have loved them as You have loved Me.” John 17: 23

 

 

This verse describes Truth as knowing and experiencing personal relationships with God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit, not just head knowledge about Truth. Many know the language and information of Scripture without knowing the Authors personally who wrote the Scriptures. We are commanded to be students of the Word for maturity in the Divine Truths.  Come and let us reason together.    

Lies in Relationships

“Do not lie one to another since you have put off the old man with his deeds.” Colossians 3:9

 

How many of us have experienced, The Blame Game:

“it’s your fault”, “You made me so mad”

”You hurt my feelings or you don’t meet my needs”

Have these thoughts ever crossed your mind and you used the silent treatment to make someone feel guilty?” How about lashing out in a verbal frenzy assuring the other person they are wrong?  Sounds crazy but many do this?

As we accuse one another do those same pitiful arguments go back to our God for His “mistreatment” of us? Living lies is the surest way to the door of misery, anger, anxiety and blinding us to the Truth.

Is it a lie that we must earn God’s love? Is it ok to get impatient with God’s timing on how He is working in other lives?”

Come investigate how we accept lies to avoid pain and suffering. Learn how we are bombarded daily with lies to keep us under the control of the enemy. Don’t let lies believed as truth affect you as if they were true, even though they are lies.”

Hear What the Spirit is Saying

 “Hear what the spirit is saying to those who have an ear to hear.” Rev. chapters 2-3 (please read all)

 

 

The description of hearing with your heart is valid and vital for all that know what it is to be a part of the family of God. For those that are yet to become a part of His family, hunger and need must be created and that starts in the heart.

There is great opposition that test and tries an unguarded heart. It is time we prioritize the heart of God in our lives for keeping Him as our first love.

 Do we really know and care about the danger of putting our heart’s agenda first as the standard of learning? We hear with our ears, but we listen with our hearts.  Are we listening to what the Spirit is saying? 

 

Faith Grows

“I found it necessary to write to you exhorting you to contend earnestly for the faith which was once for all delivered to the saints.” Jude 3b

 

Each has been given a measure of faith. Salvation is a one-time transformation by the grace and power of our Lord Jesus Christ. The Spirit then goes about making all the truth of salvation and beyond reality in the newness of life.

We can really slow down or even mess up His sovereign work toward maturity by centering on serving ourselves; many times without realizing where and why we no longer “lie down in green pastures so He can restore our soul.” Psalms 23:2-3

It is sobering and saddening when we have Light and do not walk in it. Let’s talk about character choices for FAITH to Grow.  

 

Time of Transition

 “To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of the mystery among the Gentiles, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.” Colossians 1:27

 

 

When Christ walked here, He came to set up His Divine order on how to walk in the newness of life. “Old things are passed away, behold, all things are new.” Change is scary and understanding needs the Spirit working in us. 

Today’s discussion reveals how to redeem the time for the days that are evil. Explore with us insights into making fruitful this Time of Transition.

 

Established in the Faith

“Holding the mystery of the faith in a pure conscience.” I Timothy 3:9

 

The unity of the Spirit is firmly based on the unity of the faith. Modern efforts of organizational unity are based on compromise and a watered-down definition of faith. Faith must be tested to prove if it will pass the circumstances when we have no solution of our own. Faith that grows stronger must be Divine faith, as soulish man-made faith will fail.  

We are discussing how to discern lasting faith that comes from a pure heart of love and a good conscience.  This is the real mark or target at which to aim. Some miss the mark because they aim at the wrong target.  Do you know the difference? Join us. 

 

Living a Lukewarm Life

“All those whom I love I correct and discipline. Therefore, shake off your complacency and repent.” Revelation 3:20

 

 

We are living in the days of apostasy as the church at Laodicea did. Sliding down the slippery slopes unto destruction does not happen overnight.  It can develop by simply wanting to enjoy the good life of comfort and ease and we start to neglect the virtue of being diligent in holding fast to our First Love – Jesus Christ.

Today, we reflect on the dangers of Living a Lukewarm Life in these perilous times and the accompanying consequences. 

Facts of Faith

“The gospel was preached to us as well as to them; but the word which they heard did not profit them, not being mixed with FAITH in those who heard it.” Hebrews 4:2

 

The message was proclaimed but it did no good because they only heard and did not believe as well. It is only as a result of our faith and trust that we experience the life of rest that we have been commanded to live.

There are conditions for our faith in the PERSON of Jesus Christ to produce a life of trust and do the will of our Father.  How do we live the 24/7 life pleasing unto the Lord Jesus? Today, we will share the stabilizing Facts of Faith for our daily walk. 

 

An Overcomer’s Life

 “To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me on My Throne.” Revelation 3:21

 

 

Some think this is just a one-time event and why to keep bringing it up. Because there is an urgent need for us to learn to live the reigning life NOW, so to the degree that we reign as an overcomer NOW, we shall be prepared to reign in actuality – forever. We are all called to be overcomers – not just a select few. 

Let’s examine the call to all overcomers, as decline begins with a cooling off of the heart’s warmth and devotion to the person of Christ. 

Faith in Christ

“Without faith, it is impossible to please him.” Hebrews 11:6

 

Faith is vital in beginning a new life in Christ and continues with that essential practice during our entire life.

 When things are running smooth, we can let our faith relax, and then our guard slips and we get careless. Then, when a trial lands on our doorstep and opens the door for all types of half-truths, mixed truths of heavenly living being invaded by earthy thinking, that raises doubts in our beliefs. 

“The just shall live by faith, but if anyone draws back, My soul has no pleasure in him.” Let’s get to know the PERSON of Christ with whom our faith must live in a close relationship. 

Overcome The World

“He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.” Revelation 3:22

 

 

Life is hard and challenging even at its best. When our goal is to be well pleasing to the Father we are met with obstacles to obstruct fulfilling the life of an Overcomer. The Scriptures enlighten the way of victory for Overcoming the world – Join us in our discussion.  

Nourishment For Growth

“As newborn babes, desire the pure milk of the word, that you may grow thereby.” I Peter 2:2

 

The Gospel is preached, – the heart, soul, and spirit are awakened – a new life is born. New life must have nourishment to grow. What are the problems that keep a little one from growing? Let’s give some thought to what is needed for newborn babes in Christ.  

Being an Overcomer

 “But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” 1 Corinthians 15:57

 

 

This victory is offered to all who are willing to pay the price to obtain the position of an Overcomer. Yes, as believers, we have overcome death and condemnation through the victory of Christ’s Cross – we then are responsible to be the Overcomer making known His Light to our darkened world in our daily walk 

The benefits are truly “out of this world” wonderful! Listen in and loosen up to make this victory a reality.  

A New Life

 

“If anyone be IN CHRIST, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, ALL things have become new.” 2 Corinthians 5:17

 

Not knowing who you are as a person being here in time and wondering what your purpose is, can upset our thinking, creating insecurities, and stress our personalities. 

Christ already has the problem solved for those that want to be in the family of God, now and forever.

Life without Christ causes us to search to find a substitute that never brings satisfaction, so we keep searching for life’s meaning. Today, we hope to clarify this issue with a solid solution that comes through A New Life.  

Lessons From Laodicea

“For the hearts of these people have grown dull. Their ears are hard of hearing, and their eyes have closed.” Act 28:27

 

 

It is easy to grow dull in remaining diligent in discipline when all is going great, and ease of life is normal. We grow disinterested in those heading for hell, we focus on laying up treasures for our retirement in comfort and become casual about the consequences of sin in our lives.

These fleshly traits blind us in remaining steadfast in our walk and we fail to redeem the time for the days are evil. Today, join in as we learn more Lessons from Laodicea.                      

Identity Crisis

 “For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, the just shall live by Faith.” Romans 1:17

 

In Romans 1 that we opened with today, the answer is found for understanding and solving an Identity Crisis.

 If we know the answer, then we need to know the right questions to ask to understand how to apply the right answer – a life of faith to faith. 

 Join us as we compare soul and spirit, who are you “IN CHRIST”?” Who does God say you are? Today’s discussion gives insights into how to have FAITH in the FACTS.

The Decline into Deception

“God is Spirit, and those that worship Him must worship in spirit and truth.”  John 4:24

 

 

We are created as 3- part beings, each having its personalized importance. When we choose to do the right thing in the wrong way, we open ourselves up to the deception of the enemy. His craftiness blinds our hearts to become captive to his dealings. Today, be alert and informed, avoiding the decline into deception. 

Right Worship

“Worship the Lord in the splendor of His holiness, tremble before Him, all the earth.” Psalms 96:9

 

When it comes to communicating with God, having our spirits in tune with His Spirit is necessary as we are created to worship. Many attempts to worship in the wrong ways, hindering the purpose of worship. Today, we explore the right way to worship. 

Ambassadors for Christ

“We are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were pleading through us, we implore you on Christ’s behalf be reconciled to God. “   2 Corinthians 5:20

 

 

To be an ambassador is to hold an office or position as an official representative for a king or government. Believers living under the government of God who has rule of everything as He is the Creator of all is a privilege beyond compare. This representation is for reconciliation in bringing world order that glorifies God Almighty. Listen as we discuss –  How do we function as Ambassadors for Christ? 

A Great Shaking

“Yet once more I shake not only the earth but also the heavens.” Hebrews 12: 26-28

 

 Verse 26 – We are living in a time when we are all shaken up. Our nation has adopted a lifestyle of indulgence from the gift of being a blessed nation of material wealth. 

Verse 27 – Although the ultimate shaking is still future we are feeling the tremors and rumblings of the approaching destruction. Are we preparing?

Verse 28 – If we continue to choose abusing grace, and living without a godly fear  

The warning is that our God is a consuming fire. He will purify the pollution of this world. 

Today, join us as we reflect on why this is coming and is there hope for survival from this Great Shaking? 

Gift of God’s Grace

“Grow in grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be the glory both now and forever” 2 Peter 3:18

 

 

In this day and age knowledge is abundant, everywhere we turn we are gaining knowledge, but is it the knowledge that will have lasting benefits? We send our children to school with a priority to get an education with life skills to be a success. Are we equally as dedicated to understanding grace, how it functions, and why it must be a priority, as grace and knowledge walk hand in hand? Let’s open the only Book that has the wisdom to guide us to a successful appreciation of the Gift of God’s Grace. 

 

The Heart of the Matter

“Finally, all of you, be like-minded, be sympathetic, love one another, be compassionate and humble.” 1 Peter 3:8

 

Peter is not telling us we must agree on non-essential in daily living. Peter did tell us how to avoid divisions in the Body of Christ. Our hearts must be of one accord and Jesus Christ as our ALL and All. Join us today as we share how we can be deceived by little issues that can grow into major differences keeping our hearts focused on our old paths, dividing when we should be uniting.  Make sure you are not demanding your rights, your truth as your foundation, because it is the heart that matters. 

God’s Amazing Grace

“My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly, therefore, I will rather boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may dwell in me.” 2 Corinthians 12:9

 

 

It can be hard to boast when failings and loss show up in areas that allow disappointments and discouragements. We are thankful for salvation secured by the gift of grace, but then, we want to be strong in our own strength, rather than His, for the miracle of grace. That formula doesn’t work.

 Today, as we review church history over the last 2000 years, we can trace GRACE operating in each age, overcoming the doubts that rob and restrict us of a God-Given Life in His Amazing Grace.

 

Love Without Hypocrisy

“Let love be with hypocrisy, abhor what is evil. Cling to what is good.” Romans 12:9

 

How do we know if we are functioning as a hypocrite in today’s culture – especially in the Body of Christ? 

      .  Do we say one thing but mean another? In the world’s definition that would be two-face

           . Do we have the wisdom and fear of the Lord in gaining this understanding?

                  . Do we misuse our spiritual gifts in the name of love?

Lots of perplexing questions. To each question, there is an answer, and those answers are found in the Bible. 

GOD’S love can be our love in every matter of the mind and heart. Let’s take it in so we can let Love be without hypocrisy.

The Faithful Church

“Without faith, it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.” Hebrews 11:6

 

 

Hebrews 11 looks at a list of lives that reflect the character of faith. Only to be what He wants me to be is the heart of the Philadelphia Church, located in the city of brotherly love. The Church’s commitment comes from the heart of love because Christ first loved us and gave Himself for us. Let’s investigate what makes up The Faithful Church.  

Recognizing Depression

“Reproach has broken my heart, and I am full of heaviness: I looked for someone to take pity, there was none, and for comforters, but I found none.” Psalms 69:20

 

Cries of pain from the body, soul, and spirit can hit us like a storm when we are attacked by overwhelming circumstances or trauma in torn relationships. Questions as to WHY scream in our agony. How do we handle what appears to be impossible to solve and are there any solutions? Where do I go?

STOP! Get Still and listen as there is HOPE, REMEDIES, and a way to find LIGHT at the end of the dark tunnel. 

True Christianity

“You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, strength, and with all your mind; and your neighbor as yourself.” Matthew 19:19

 

 

In today’s world with changing values and priorities, we have forgotten the exhortation to be wholly dedicated to a PERSON, God Almighty through the life of our Lord Jesus Christ and The Holy Spirit to guide us.

We substitute a system of works, performances, planning events, duties, and deeds believing we are fully surrendered to the Lord.  Let’s remove our second best, return to our First Love, and learn His heart so we may walk in True Christianity. 

 

 

Avoiding Depression

“God, who comforts us in ALL our tribulations” 2 Corinthians 1:4

 

The Bible gives us real examples of how relationships and circumstances gone wrong can rob us of God’s peace and comfort. To overcome:

       . Recognize our NEED for help and change 

             . Know God has a solution for every NEED 

                   . Choose to release that NEED, trusting Him for the answer

Then, hope in His love, Believing in Him, will allow us to rest in Him – AVOIDING DEPRESSION.  

Deliverance From Deception of the Mind

“I know the works that you have a name that you are alive, but you are dead.” Revelation 3:1

 

 

How often do we struggle with overwhelming circumstances that keep arriving in our lives, unplanned, and upsetting the comforts and security that we still own? It is so easy to blame others for being guilty of creating the stress and strife we fight. However, we need to turn a pointing finger back to ourselves and question if we have ignored the security blanket that was our protection. Are we to blame for our own problems to some degree? Today, we are talking about the mess we have today, knowing that God’s grace is available with the solutions to live and thrive as He has promised: “to make a way of escape that we may be able to bear it.” As we focus on Hope in Jesus Christ, our eyes are opened, and we see what needs to be corrected to enjoy Deliverance from Deception. 

 

Emotional Despair

“Those who know Your name will put their trust in You, For You, Lord, have not forsaken those who seek You.” Psalms 9:10

 

Having no one you can turn to in difficult and painful times leaves us fearful, full of dread, and doubting if anyone cares. That can include God and WHO He is. We have grown accustomed to seeing our support and needs to be met. Having to rely on faith in the unseen can really be scary if we do not know our Source of strength. Knowing your Heavenly Provider is more important than even knowing your earthly provider when it comes to insurance here on earth.

We discuss what it takes to know your God of all comfort and how to have your faith cemented in the reality of His Word and promises. Peace that passes understanding is offered to anyone willing to receive it from the hand of God, Who is the only One that possesses true lasting peace.  

 

Deliverance from Deception of the Flesh

“Remember therefore how you have received and heard, hold fast, and REPENT.” Revelation 3:3

 

 

The Lord knows all matters as He knew the weakness of this church. He announces that His character is complete wisdom, knowledge, and love. If they had ears to hear and applied His character in their lives they would walk in spiritual health. However, Sardis did not want to listen but wanted to build for themselves a name and trust in their wealth, wisdom, and works as a means of being successful “for the Lord.” They were coming out of the “dark ages” where the Word of God had only been available through a select few. They needed a Great Deliverance from ignorance of the mind and awakening with all diligence the heart, for out of it spring the issues of life. Then they would live delivered from deception of the flesh. 

Victimization

“Truly God is good to Israel, to such as are pure in heart.  But as for me, my feet had almost stumbled; my steps had nearly slipped. For I was envious of the boastful when I saw the prosperity of the wicked.” Psalms 73:1-3

 

This is a typical example of how we establish our patterns of depression as we compare our circumstances with the ways of the world. Today, let’s investigate how these patterns develop and strengthen their hold in our thinking; setting us up for anger, bitterness, resentment, vengeance, apathy, and a season of depression if we don’t find the right “pattern” for breaking these strongholds. Victimization can be a matter of the past.

Come Alive

“I know the works that you have a name that you are alive, but you are dead.” Revelation 3:1

 

 

There is a principle in the Scripture that says, “Point of departure – point of return.” As these letters were circulated to all the churches Sardis needed to remember where the Church had its beginnings and return to the Truths that Jesus Christ gave in these letters. At a great price a few good men lived worthy lives and translated the scriptures into different languages and invented the printing press. The Scriptures were now available to the people who had lived in darkness for hundreds of years. They could return to Truth and Come Alive once more. Are we still living in that freedom? 

 

Patterns of Depression

“The Spirit of a man will sustain his infirmity, but a wounded spirit who can bear?” Proverbs 18:4

 

Depression can show up in many different symptoms and it may be hard to discover the root problem. Depression can lead to physical problems as the Scripture says a broken spirit dries up the bones. A general description is – Depression is the consequence of wrong responses to life events that remain unresolved in a person’s life. Depression will impact your soul and your spirit. Depression can be a “normal” response when overwhelming circumstances pile up with no relief.  Depression can be diagnosed but the lasting solutions are found in the life-giving hope found in Jesus Christ. Listen for the answer.

Standing Strong in the Face of Judgment

 “Now to you I say, and to the rest in Thyatira as many as do not have this doctrine, who have not known the depths of Satan, “I will” put on you no other burden on you and hold fast till I come.” Revelation 2:24

 

 

This promise of hope that came to Thyatira was so needed to the faithful few standing for truth as they were being forced to live a pagan lifestyle of compromise for survival. Rules founded on Satan’s thinking of releasing spiritual responsibility and substituting intellectual enlightenment of love for self – first, last, and always were heading up the program.  

We can see the same type of controls being placed on different people from different countries demanding those inhabitants follow the dictates of man-made thinking today. As these controls become “new laws” for all; Do not be deceived when this way of living is called progress.  It is a self-centered, selfish system from false views of philosophy that depraved souls embrace for their own purpose. Join our conversation to Stand Strong and reap the promise.  

Friendship with the Father

“I in them, and you in Me; that they may be made perfect in one and that the world may know that you have sent me and have loved them as You have loved Me.” John 17:23

 

Friendships made real are cemented in love. The sharing, the desire to be together, the willingness to sacrifice for others, and the same objectives with the same goals are all afforded us when we respond to the drawing of the Father’s heart desiring friendship with each of us.

Knowing each other’s thinking, hopes, dreams, plans, wants, and needs are just a few qualities that develop in a lasting friendship.  TRUST comes after the knowing is mature. Intimacy is earned. Friendships should never be taken for granted, our relationships cannot be half-hearted or conditional, and friendships must be genuine – no cover-up. If those qualities appeal to you then invite The Lord Jesus Christ to be your friend by the tenderness of His Spirit.