• Video Sermon #kjv #kingjamesbible #bible #scriptures Pastor Richard Jordan - Reading #Romans - https://youtu.be/2ohqfFUc42U?si=M1uOTtPp2GO1S69V
    Video Sermon #kjv #kingjamesbible #bible #scriptures Pastor Richard Jordan - Reading #Romans - https://youtu.be/2ohqfFUc42U?si=M1uOTtPp2GO1S69V
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  • Christian, do you suffer with physical difficulties? Illness? Injury? Disability? This should come as no surprise - we live in a fallen world, inhabiting corruptible bodies.

    Paul describes this fallen world as follows: “For the anxious longing of the creation waits eagerly for the revealing of the sons of God. For the creation was subjected to futility, not willingly, but because of Him who subjected it, in hope that the creation itself also will be set free from its slavery to corruption into the freedom of the glory of the children of God” (Rom. 8:19-21).

    One day, the world shall be set free from its corruption; until then, it waits and degrades, as do we. As Paul continues, “even we ourselves groan within ourselves, waiting eagerly for our adoption as sons, the redemption of our body” (Rom. 8:23).

    Paul himself suffered with an issue that most believe to be a physical impairment, as Paul describes in 2 Cor. 12 his “thorn in the flesh” that tormented him in order to keep him humble. Timothy suffered “frequent ailments”, and Paul instructed him to drink wine for relief (1 Tim. 5:23). Neither was healed in this life.

    The promise for us, that to which we look forward, for which we wait eagerly, is “our adoption as sons, the redemption of our body” (Rom. 8:23). Let us then when not healed, as did Paul, recognize that in our weakness God is shown to be strong and the power of Christ is able to dwell in us (2 Cor. 12:9). For when we are weak, then we are strong (2 Cor. 12:10).

    ——————
    Spurgeon’s Morning and Evening Devotions

    Evening, December 4

    "Even we ourselves groan within ourselves, waiting for the adoption, to wit, the redemption of our body." Romans 8:23

    This groaning is universal among the saints: to a greater or less extent we all feel it. It is not the groan of murmuring or complaint: it is rather the note of desire than of distress. Having received an earnest, we desire the whole of our portion; we are sighing that our entire manhood, in its trinity of spirit, soul, and body, may be set free from the last vestige of the fall; we long to put off corruption, weakness, and dishonour, and to wrap ourselves in incorruption, in immortality, in glory, in the spiritual body which the Lord Jesus will bestow upon His people. We long for the manifestation of our adoption as the children of God. "We groan," but it is "within ourselves." It is not the hypocrite's groan, by which he would make men believe that he is a saint because he is wretched. Our sighs are sacred things, too hallowed for us to tell abroad. We keep our longings to our Lord alone. Then the apostle says we are "waiting", by which we learn that we are not to be petulant, like Jonah or Elijah, when they said, "Let me die"; nor are we to whimper and sigh for the end of life because we are tired of work, nor wish to escape from our present sufferings till the will of the Lord is done. We are to groan for glorification, but we are to wait patiently for it, knowing that what the Lord appoints is best. Waiting implies being ready. We are to stand at the door expecting the Beloved to open it and take us away to Himself. This "groaning" is a test. You may judge of a man by what he groans after. Some men groan after wealth- they worship Mammon; some groan continually under the troubles of life- they are merely impatient; but the man who sighs after God, who is uneasy till he is made like Christ, that is the blessed man. May God help us to groan for the coming of the Lord, and the resurrection which He will bring to us.
    Christian, do you suffer with physical difficulties? Illness? Injury? Disability? This should come as no surprise - we live in a fallen world, inhabiting corruptible bodies. Paul describes this fallen world as follows: “For the anxious longing of the creation waits eagerly for the revealing of the sons of God. For the creation was subjected to futility, not willingly, but because of Him who subjected it, in hope that the creation itself also will be set free from its slavery to corruption into the freedom of the glory of the children of God” (Rom. 8:19-21). One day, the world shall be set free from its corruption; until then, it waits and degrades, as do we. As Paul continues, “even we ourselves groan within ourselves, waiting eagerly for our adoption as sons, the redemption of our body” (Rom. 8:23). Paul himself suffered with an issue that most believe to be a physical impairment, as Paul describes in 2 Cor. 12 his “thorn in the flesh” that tormented him in order to keep him humble. Timothy suffered “frequent ailments”, and Paul instructed him to drink wine for relief (1 Tim. 5:23). Neither was healed in this life. The promise for us, that to which we look forward, for which we wait eagerly, is “our adoption as sons, the redemption of our body” (Rom. 8:23). Let us then when not healed, as did Paul, recognize that in our weakness God is shown to be strong and the power of Christ is able to dwell in us (2 Cor. 12:9). For when we are weak, then we are strong (2 Cor. 12:10). —————— Spurgeon’s Morning and Evening Devotions Evening, December 4 "Even we ourselves groan within ourselves, waiting for the adoption, to wit, the redemption of our body." Romans 8:23 This groaning is universal among the saints: to a greater or less extent we all feel it. It is not the groan of murmuring or complaint: it is rather the note of desire than of distress. Having received an earnest, we desire the whole of our portion; we are sighing that our entire manhood, in its trinity of spirit, soul, and body, may be set free from the last vestige of the fall; we long to put off corruption, weakness, and dishonour, and to wrap ourselves in incorruption, in immortality, in glory, in the spiritual body which the Lord Jesus will bestow upon His people. We long for the manifestation of our adoption as the children of God. "We groan," but it is "within ourselves." It is not the hypocrite's groan, by which he would make men believe that he is a saint because he is wretched. Our sighs are sacred things, too hallowed for us to tell abroad. We keep our longings to our Lord alone. Then the apostle says we are "waiting", by which we learn that we are not to be petulant, like Jonah or Elijah, when they said, "Let me die"; nor are we to whimper and sigh for the end of life because we are tired of work, nor wish to escape from our present sufferings till the will of the Lord is done. We are to groan for glorification, but we are to wait patiently for it, knowing that what the Lord appoints is best. Waiting implies being ready. We are to stand at the door expecting the Beloved to open it and take us away to Himself. This "groaning" is a test. You may judge of a man by what he groans after. Some men groan after wealth- they worship Mammon; some groan continually under the troubles of life- they are merely impatient; but the man who sighs after God, who is uneasy till he is made like Christ, that is the blessed man. May God help us to groan for the coming of the Lord, and the resurrection which He will bring to us.
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  • Video Sermon - #kjv #kingjamesbible #bible #scriptures
    Pastor Ricky Kurth - The Ministry Of #Money #Romans 15:25-33 https://youtu.be/dLamUqc16tc?si=IRi7SaDsf-q0sXFL
    Video Sermon - #kjv #kingjamesbible #bible #scriptures Pastor Ricky Kurth - The Ministry Of #Money #Romans 15:25-33 https://youtu.be/dLamUqc16tc?si=IRi7SaDsf-q0sXFL
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  • Brethren, be thankful to the Lord, for He has chosen to show you mercy. Yes, showing you mercy is God’s choice, “For He says to Moses, ‘I will have mercy on whom I have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I have compassion’” (Rom. 9:15).

    This is a difficult passage for many, but it reveals for us God’s sovereignty in all things. God is creator and upholder of all (Gen. 1; Heb. 1:3). All belongs to Him, as Scripture delcares, “The earth is the Lord’s and all it contains, the world and those who dwell in it” (Psalm. 24:1). Does He then not have right to do with His possession as He pleases?

    Therefore, again I say, be thankful! For God has dealt mercifully with us, even though His mercy is undeserved. If He were to deal justly with all, all would be condemned, for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God (Rom. 3:23).

    We should neither decry nor dismiss God’s sovereignty; rather, we should be grateful for it. Left to ourselves, we would all stand condemned. Yet God, in His great mercy, according to His good pleasure, saves those who otherwise deserve it not.

    Therefore, be humble in your salvation, because all you have contributed to it is the sin that makes it necessary. And show mercy to others (Mt. 5:7), because as Jesus instructed, freely we have received, therefore freely we should give (Mt.10:8).

    ——————
    Spurgeon’s Morning and Evening Devotions

    Evening, November 25

    "For He saith to Moses, I will have mercy on whom I will have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I will have compassion." Romans 9:15

    In these words the Lord in the plainest manner claims the right to give or to withhold His mercy according to His own sovereign will. As the prerogative of life and death is vested in the monarch, so the Judge of all the earth has a right to spare or condemn the guilty, as may seem best in His sight. Men by their sins have forfeited all claim upon God; they deserve to perish for their sins- and if they all do so, they have no ground for complaint. If the Lord steps in to save any, He may do so if the ends of justice are not thwarted; but if He judges it best to leave the condemned to suffer the righteous sentence, none may arraign Him at their bar. Foolish and impudent are all those discourses about the rights of men to be all placed on the same footing; ignorant, if not worse, are those contentions against discriminating grace, which are but the rebellions of proud human nature against the crown and sceptre of Jehovah. When we are brought to see our own utter ruin and ill desert, and the justice of the divine verdict against sin, we no longer cavil at the truth that the Lord is not bound to save us; we do not murmur if He chooses to save others, as though He were doing us an injury, but feel that if He deigns to look upon us, it will be His own free act of undeserved goodness, for which we shall for ever bless His name.

    How shall those who are the subjects of divine election sufficiently adore the grace of God? They have no room for boasting, for sovereignty most effectually excludes it. The Lord's will alone is glorified, and the very notion of human merit is cast out to everlasting contempt. There is no more humbling doctrine in Scripture than that of election, none more promotive of gratitude, and, consequently, none more sanctifying. Believers should not be afraid of it, but adoringly rejoice in it.
    Brethren, be thankful to the Lord, for He has chosen to show you mercy. Yes, showing you mercy is God’s choice, “For He says to Moses, ‘I will have mercy on whom I have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I have compassion’” (Rom. 9:15). This is a difficult passage for many, but it reveals for us God’s sovereignty in all things. God is creator and upholder of all (Gen. 1; Heb. 1:3). All belongs to Him, as Scripture delcares, “The earth is the Lord’s and all it contains, the world and those who dwell in it” (Psalm. 24:1). Does He then not have right to do with His possession as He pleases? Therefore, again I say, be thankful! For God has dealt mercifully with us, even though His mercy is undeserved. If He were to deal justly with all, all would be condemned, for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God (Rom. 3:23). We should neither decry nor dismiss God’s sovereignty; rather, we should be grateful for it. Left to ourselves, we would all stand condemned. Yet God, in His great mercy, according to His good pleasure, saves those who otherwise deserve it not. Therefore, be humble in your salvation, because all you have contributed to it is the sin that makes it necessary. And show mercy to others (Mt. 5:7), because as Jesus instructed, freely we have received, therefore freely we should give (Mt.10:8). —————— Spurgeon’s Morning and Evening Devotions Evening, November 25 "For He saith to Moses, I will have mercy on whom I will have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I will have compassion." Romans 9:15 In these words the Lord in the plainest manner claims the right to give or to withhold His mercy according to His own sovereign will. As the prerogative of life and death is vested in the monarch, so the Judge of all the earth has a right to spare or condemn the guilty, as may seem best in His sight. Men by their sins have forfeited all claim upon God; they deserve to perish for their sins- and if they all do so, they have no ground for complaint. If the Lord steps in to save any, He may do so if the ends of justice are not thwarted; but if He judges it best to leave the condemned to suffer the righteous sentence, none may arraign Him at their bar. Foolish and impudent are all those discourses about the rights of men to be all placed on the same footing; ignorant, if not worse, are those contentions against discriminating grace, which are but the rebellions of proud human nature against the crown and sceptre of Jehovah. When we are brought to see our own utter ruin and ill desert, and the justice of the divine verdict against sin, we no longer cavil at the truth that the Lord is not bound to save us; we do not murmur if He chooses to save others, as though He were doing us an injury, but feel that if He deigns to look upon us, it will be His own free act of undeserved goodness, for which we shall for ever bless His name. How shall those who are the subjects of divine election sufficiently adore the grace of God? They have no room for boasting, for sovereignty most effectually excludes it. The Lord's will alone is glorified, and the very notion of human merit is cast out to everlasting contempt. There is no more humbling doctrine in Scripture than that of election, none more promotive of gratitude, and, consequently, none more sanctifying. Believers should not be afraid of it, but adoringly rejoice in it.
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  • Share From Daily Bible Lite App

    Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned:

    (For until the law sin was in the world: but sin is not imputed when there is no law.

    Nevertheless death reigned from Adam to Moses, even over them that had not sinned after the similitude of Adam's transgression, who is the figure of him that was to come.

    But not as the offence, so also is the free gift. For if through the offence of one many be dead, much more the grace of God, and the gift by grace, which is by one man, Jesus Christ, hath abounded unto many.

    And not as it was by one that sinned, so is the gift: for the judgment was by one to condemnation, but the free gift is of many offences unto justification.

    For if by one man's offence death reigned by one; much more they which receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness shall reign in life by one, Jesus Christ.)
    Romans 5:12-17

    Share From Daily Bible Lite App Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned: (For until the law sin was in the world: but sin is not imputed when there is no law. Nevertheless death reigned from Adam to Moses, even over them that had not sinned after the similitude of Adam's transgression, who is the figure of him that was to come. But not as the offence, so also is the free gift. For if through the offence of one many be dead, much more the grace of God, and the gift by grace, which is by one man, Jesus Christ, hath abounded unto many. And not as it was by one that sinned, so is the gift: for the judgment was by one to condemnation, but the free gift is of many offences unto justification. For if by one man's offence death reigned by one; much more they which receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness shall reign in life by one, Jesus Christ.) Romans 5:12-17
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  • Romans 5:20 "... where sin abounded, grace did much more abound."
    Short bible study on Romans 5:20.
    https://willyealsogoaway.substack.com/p/romans-520-where-sin-abounded-grace?publication_id=495423&post_id=177249483&isFreemail=true&r=1maoyr&triedRedirect=true&utm_source=substack&utm_medium=email
    Romans 5:20 "... where sin abounded, grace did much more abound." Short bible study on Romans 5:20. https://willyealsogoaway.substack.com/p/romans-520-where-sin-abounded-grace?publication_id=495423&post_id=177249483&isFreemail=true&r=1maoyr&triedRedirect=true&utm_source=substack&utm_medium=email
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  • #Romans 1:20 #kjv #kingjamesbible #bible #scriptures
    For the invisible things of Him from the Creation of the world, 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 #kjv #kingjamesbible #bible #scriptures For the invisible things of Him from the Creation of the world, are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal Power and #Godhead, so that they are without excuse:
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  • Video: Sermon #kjv #kingjamesbible #bible #scriptures - Pastor Richard Jordan - #Romans 4:16-4:18 https://youtu.be/YzRBMx6WCPo?si=-9EVTF64matAh4VK
    Video: Sermon #kjv #kingjamesbible #bible #scriptures - Pastor Richard Jordan - #Romans 4:16-4:18 https://youtu.be/YzRBMx6WCPo?si=-9EVTF64matAh4VK
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  • #Bible / #Scripture / #Doctrine Study Topic: #Racism is #SIN!!
    Plain and Simple! The #Scriptures Says!
    Racism is SIN!

    #Genesis 1:27 So #God created man in His own image, in the image of God created He him; #male and #female created He them.

    #1Samuel 16:7c the LORD looketh on the heart.

    #Acts 10:34 34 Then Peter opened his mouth, and said, Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons:

    #Romans 2:11 For there is no respect of persons with God.

    Acts 17:26 And hath made of one blood all nations of men for to dwell on all the face of the earth

    #James 2:9 But if ye have respect to persons, ye commit sin, and are convinced of the #law as transgressors.
    #Bible / #Scripture / #Doctrine Study Topic: #Racism is #SIN!! Plain and Simple! The #Scriptures Says! Racism is SIN! #Genesis 1:27 So #God created man in His own image, in the image of God created He him; #male and #female created He them. #1Samuel 16:7c the LORD looketh on the heart. #Acts 10:34 34 Then Peter opened his mouth, and said, Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons: #Romans 2:11 For there is no respect of persons with God. Acts 17:26 And hath made of one blood all nations of men for to dwell on all the face of the earth #James 2:9 But if ye have respect to persons, ye commit sin, and are convinced of the #law as transgressors.
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  • Romans 13:8
    Owe no man any thing, but to love one another: for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the law.
    #WednesdayWisdom
    Romans 13:8 Owe no man any thing, but to love one another: for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the law. #WednesdayWisdom
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  • Brothers and sisters, do you stand apart from the culture? Do others know you are different simply by observing your behavior, by listening to your speech? Or do you blend in, as if you belong?

    Though we live in the world, we are not of the world; we are of Christ. If we our lives are indistinguishable from the culture, then we must ask, is Christ in us? We are not to love the world nor the things in the world; for if we do, then the love of the Father is not in us (1 Jn. 2:15).

    Nor should we be loved by the world. As Jesus explained, “if you were of the world, the world would love its own; but because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, because of this the world hates you” (Jn. 15:19).

    Therefore, let us not “not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind” (Rom. 12:2). Spend time in His word that your mind might be renewed, and that in so doing, that you become more like Him. Stand out, my brethren, as you stand for Christ. Do not be like the world, but be holy as He is holy (1 Pet. 1:16).

    ——————
    Spurgeon’s Morning and Evening Devotions

    Evening, October 14

    "And be not conformed to this world." Romans 12:2

    If a Christian can by possibility be saved while he conforms to this world, at any rate it must be so as by fire. Such a bare salvation is almost as much to be dreaded as desired. Reader, would you wish to leave this world in the darkness of a desponding death bed, and enter heaven as a shipwrecked mariner climbs the rocks of his native country? Then be worldly; be mixed up with Mammonites, and refuse to go without the camp bearing Christ's reproach. But would you have a heaven below as well as a heaven above? Would you comprehend with all saints what are the heights and depths, and know the love of Christ which passeth knowledge? Would you receive an abundant entrance into the joy of your Lord? Then come ye out from among them, and be ye separate, and touch not the unclean thing. Would you attain the full assurance of faith? You cannot gain it while you commune with sinners. Would you flame with vehement love? Your love will be damped by the drenchings of godless society. You cannot become a great Christian- you may be a babe in grace, but you never can be a perfect man in Christ Jesus while you yield yourself to the worldly maxims and modes of business of men of the world. It is ill for an heir of heaven to be a great friend with the heirs of hell. It has a bad look when a courtier is too intimate with his king's enemies. Even small inconsistencies are dangerous. Little thorns make great blisters, little moths destroy fine garments, and little frivolities and little rogueries will rob religion of a thousand joys. O professor, too little separated from sinners, you know not what you lose by your conformity to the world. It cuts the tendons of your strength, and makes you creep where you ought to run. Then, for your own comfort's sake, and for the sake of your growth in grace, if you be a Christian, be a Christian, and be a marked and distinct one.
    Brothers and sisters, do you stand apart from the culture? Do others know you are different simply by observing your behavior, by listening to your speech? Or do you blend in, as if you belong? Though we live in the world, we are not of the world; we are of Christ. If we our lives are indistinguishable from the culture, then we must ask, is Christ in us? We are not to love the world nor the things in the world; for if we do, then the love of the Father is not in us (1 Jn. 2:15). Nor should we be loved by the world. As Jesus explained, “if you were of the world, the world would love its own; but because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, because of this the world hates you” (Jn. 15:19). Therefore, let us not “not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind” (Rom. 12:2). Spend time in His word that your mind might be renewed, and that in so doing, that you become more like Him. Stand out, my brethren, as you stand for Christ. Do not be like the world, but be holy as He is holy (1 Pet. 1:16). —————— Spurgeon’s Morning and Evening Devotions Evening, October 14 "And be not conformed to this world." Romans 12:2 If a Christian can by possibility be saved while he conforms to this world, at any rate it must be so as by fire. Such a bare salvation is almost as much to be dreaded as desired. Reader, would you wish to leave this world in the darkness of a desponding death bed, and enter heaven as a shipwrecked mariner climbs the rocks of his native country? Then be worldly; be mixed up with Mammonites, and refuse to go without the camp bearing Christ's reproach. But would you have a heaven below as well as a heaven above? Would you comprehend with all saints what are the heights and depths, and know the love of Christ which passeth knowledge? Would you receive an abundant entrance into the joy of your Lord? Then come ye out from among them, and be ye separate, and touch not the unclean thing. Would you attain the full assurance of faith? You cannot gain it while you commune with sinners. Would you flame with vehement love? Your love will be damped by the drenchings of godless society. You cannot become a great Christian- you may be a babe in grace, but you never can be a perfect man in Christ Jesus while you yield yourself to the worldly maxims and modes of business of men of the world. It is ill for an heir of heaven to be a great friend with the heirs of hell. It has a bad look when a courtier is too intimate with his king's enemies. Even small inconsistencies are dangerous. Little thorns make great blisters, little moths destroy fine garments, and little frivolities and little rogueries will rob religion of a thousand joys. O professor, too little separated from sinners, you know not what you lose by your conformity to the world. It cuts the tendons of your strength, and makes you creep where you ought to run. Then, for your own comfort's sake, and for the sake of your growth in grace, if you be a Christian, be a Christian, and be a marked and distinct one.
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  • Romans 5:1
    Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our LORD Jesus Christ...
    Romans 5:1 Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our LORD Jesus Christ...
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  • Brethren, an unpopular doctrine among many Christian’s is that of election and predestination. Many believe the idea that God would choose those to be saved and leave the rest to condemnation contradicts their view of free will and man’s ability to choose God.

    Popularity does not affirm truth, nor does lack of popularity refute it.

    God’s word is replete with passages describing God’s foreknowledge of all people and events, and His choosing, according to His will and for His good pleasure.

    Why did God choose Israel? Why did Jesus choose His apostles and tell them that they didn’t choose Him (Jn. 15:16)? Why did God choose Paul when Paul wasn’t seeking God but rather to kill Jesus’ followers?

    Because it pleased Him to do so.

    Ephesians chapter one and two make clear that God chooses. Paul details election in Romans 8-11. Jesus Himself said no one could come to Him unless the Father first draws him in the same way that one would draw water from a well. Does the water choose to be drawn up in the bucket?

    Paul writes that “it does not depend on the man who wills” (Rom. 9:16), it is not a choice. Paul also writes, “What then? What Israel is seeking, it has not obtained, but those who were chosen obtained it, and the rest were hardened” (Rom. 11:7).

    While offensive to some, this should be a sobering and humbling realization. We have nothing to offer God. Even our faith is a gift. The only thing we contribute to our salvation is the sin that makes it necessary.

    If you are born anew, it was not of your will, but of God (Jn. 1:13). Be thankful, not boastful. Be humble, not proud. You deserve condemnation as much as anyone else. Your salvation is an unearned and undeserved gift.

    Remember that God has a purpose for you. If you are saved, it is because He first predestined you and then He called you (Rom. 8:30). Therefore, be grateful and sober, and “walk in a manner worthy of the calling with which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, showing tolerance for one another in love, being diligent to preserve the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace” (Eph. 4:1-3).

    ——————-
    Spurgeon’s Morning and Evening Devotions

    Evening, October 11

    "Whom He did predestinate, them He also called." Romans 8:30

    In the second epistle to Timothy, first chapter, and ninth verse, are these words- "Who hath saved us, and called us with an holy calling." Now, here is a touchstone by which we may try our calling. It is "an holy calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and grace." This calling forbids all trust in our own doings, and conducts us to Christ alone for salvation, but it afterwards purges us from dead works to serve the living and true God. As He that hath called you is holy, so must you be holy. If you are living in sin, you are not called, but if you are truly Christ's, you can say, "Nothing pains me so much as sin; I desire to be rid of it; Lord, help me to be holy." Is this the panting of thy heart? Is this the tenor of thy life towards God, and His divine will? Again, in Philippians, 3:13, 14, we are told of "The high calling of God in Christ Jesus." Is then your calling a high calling? Has it ennobled your heart, and set it upon heavenly things? Has it elevated your hopes, your tastes, your desires? Has it upraised the constant tenor of your life, so that you spend it with God and for God? Another test we find in Hebrews 3:1- "Partakers of the heavenly calling." Heavenly calling means a call from heaven. If man alone call thee, thou art uncalled. Is thy calling of God? Is it a call to heaven as well as from heaven? Unless thou art a stranger here, and heaven thy home, thou hast not been called with a heavenly calling; for those who have been so called, declare that they look for a city which hath foundations, whose builder and maker is God, and they themselves are strangers and pilgrims upon the earth. Is thy calling thus holy, high, heavenly? Then, beloved, thou hast been called of God, for such is the calling wherewith God doth call His people.
    Brethren, an unpopular doctrine among many Christian’s is that of election and predestination. Many believe the idea that God would choose those to be saved and leave the rest to condemnation contradicts their view of free will and man’s ability to choose God. Popularity does not affirm truth, nor does lack of popularity refute it. God’s word is replete with passages describing God’s foreknowledge of all people and events, and His choosing, according to His will and for His good pleasure. Why did God choose Israel? Why did Jesus choose His apostles and tell them that they didn’t choose Him (Jn. 15:16)? Why did God choose Paul when Paul wasn’t seeking God but rather to kill Jesus’ followers? Because it pleased Him to do so. Ephesians chapter one and two make clear that God chooses. Paul details election in Romans 8-11. Jesus Himself said no one could come to Him unless the Father first draws him in the same way that one would draw water from a well. Does the water choose to be drawn up in the bucket? Paul writes that “it does not depend on the man who wills” (Rom. 9:16), it is not a choice. Paul also writes, “What then? What Israel is seeking, it has not obtained, but those who were chosen obtained it, and the rest were hardened” (Rom. 11:7). While offensive to some, this should be a sobering and humbling realization. We have nothing to offer God. Even our faith is a gift. The only thing we contribute to our salvation is the sin that makes it necessary. If you are born anew, it was not of your will, but of God (Jn. 1:13). Be thankful, not boastful. Be humble, not proud. You deserve condemnation as much as anyone else. Your salvation is an unearned and undeserved gift. Remember that God has a purpose for you. If you are saved, it is because He first predestined you and then He called you (Rom. 8:30). Therefore, be grateful and sober, and “walk in a manner worthy of the calling with which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, showing tolerance for one another in love, being diligent to preserve the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace” (Eph. 4:1-3). ——————- Spurgeon’s Morning and Evening Devotions Evening, October 11 "Whom He did predestinate, them He also called." Romans 8:30 In the second epistle to Timothy, first chapter, and ninth verse, are these words- "Who hath saved us, and called us with an holy calling." Now, here is a touchstone by which we may try our calling. It is "an holy calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and grace." This calling forbids all trust in our own doings, and conducts us to Christ alone for salvation, but it afterwards purges us from dead works to serve the living and true God. As He that hath called you is holy, so must you be holy. If you are living in sin, you are not called, but if you are truly Christ's, you can say, "Nothing pains me so much as sin; I desire to be rid of it; Lord, help me to be holy." Is this the panting of thy heart? Is this the tenor of thy life towards God, and His divine will? Again, in Philippians, 3:13, 14, we are told of "The high calling of God in Christ Jesus." Is then your calling a high calling? Has it ennobled your heart, and set it upon heavenly things? Has it elevated your hopes, your tastes, your desires? Has it upraised the constant tenor of your life, so that you spend it with God and for God? Another test we find in Hebrews 3:1- "Partakers of the heavenly calling." Heavenly calling means a call from heaven. If man alone call thee, thou art uncalled. Is thy calling of God? Is it a call to heaven as well as from heaven? Unless thou art a stranger here, and heaven thy home, thou hast not been called with a heavenly calling; for those who have been so called, declare that they look for a city which hath foundations, whose builder and maker is God, and they themselves are strangers and pilgrims upon the earth. Is thy calling thus holy, high, heavenly? Then, beloved, thou hast been called of God, for such is the calling wherewith God doth call His people.
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  • If ever there was a verse that was very straightforward in asserting God's election in salvation, it is Romans 11:7 -

    "What then? What Israel is seeking, it has not obtained, but those who were chosen obtained it, and the rest were hardened"
    If ever there was a verse that was very straightforward in asserting God's election in salvation, it is Romans 11:7 - "What then? What Israel is seeking, it has not obtained, but those who were chosen obtained it, and the rest were hardened"
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  • Christian, are you still struggling with sin? You are not alone. Though we are new creatures (2 Cor. 5:17), but we still must put the flesh to death (Rom. 8:13). This is what it takes to deny oneself and daily take up your cross (Lk. 9:23).

    Paul understood this struggle all too well. As he explains in his letter to the Romans:

    “For we know that the Law is spiritual, but I am of flesh, sold into bondage to sin. For what I am doing, I do not understand; for I am not practicing what I would like to do, but I am doing the very thing I hate. But if I do the very thing I do not want to do, I agree with the Law, confessing that the Law is good. So now, no longer am I the one doing it, but sin which dwells in me. For I know that nothing good dwells in me, that is, in my flesh; for the willing is present in me, but the doing of the good is not. For the good that I want, I do not do, but I practice the very evil that I do not want. But if I am doing the very thing I do not want, I am no longer the one doing it, but sin which dwells in me.

    I find then the principle that evil is present in me, the one who wants to do good. For I joyfully concur with the law of God in the inner man, but I see a different law in the members of my body, waging war against the law of my mind and making me a prisoner of the law of sin which is in my members. Wretched man that I am! Who will set me free from the body of this death?” (Rom. 7:14-24)

    How wonderful then to know that we have a mediator who intercedes with the Father on our behalf, Jesus Christ, who gave Himself as a ransom for us (1 Tim. 2:5-6). He is our advocate when we sin (1 Jn. 2:1). Furthermore, because we have Him for an advocate, we know that “if we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness” (1 Jn. 1:9).

    How blessed we are that the apostle John can say to us with assuredness that “your sins have been forgiven you for His name’s sake” (1 Jn. 2:12).

    Still, though “He appeared in order to take away sins” (1 Jn. 3:5), let us not continue in them; instead, let us keep our hope fixed on Him and purify ourselves, just as He is pure (1 Jn. 3:3).

    ——————

    Spurgeon’s Morning and Evening Devotions

    Evening, October 4

    "If any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous." 1 John 2:1

    "If any man sin, we have an advocate." Yes, though we sin, we have Him still. John does not say, "If any man sin he has forfeited his advocate," but "we have an advocate," sinners though we are. All the sin that a believer ever did, or can be allowed to commit, cannot destroy his interest in the Lord Jesus Christ, as his advocate. The name here given to our Lord is suggestive. "Jesus." Ah! then He is an advocate such as we need, for Jesus is the name of one whose business and delight it is to save. "They shall call His name Jesus, for He shall save His people from their sins." His sweetest name implies His success. Next, it is "Jesus Christ"- Christos, the anointed. This shows His authority to plead. The Christ has a right to plead, for He is the Father's own appointed advocate and elected priest. If He were of our choosing He might fail, but if God hath laid help upon one that is mighty, we may safely lay our trouble where God has laid His help. He is Christ, and therefore authorized; He is Christ, and therefore qualified, for the anointing has fully fitted Him for His work. He can plead so as to move the heart of God and prevail. What words of tenderness, what sentences of persuasion will the anointed use when He stands up to plead for me! One more letter of His name remains, "Jesus Christ the righteous." This is not only His character BUT His plea. It is His character, and if the Righteous One be my advocate, then my cause is good, or He would not have espoused it. It is His plea, for He meets the charge of unrighteousness against me by the plea that He is righteous. He declares Himself my substitute and puts His obedience to my account. My soul, thou hast a friend well fitted to be thine advocate, He cannot but succeed; leave thyself entirely in His hands.
    Christian, are you still struggling with sin? You are not alone. Though we are new creatures (2 Cor. 5:17), but we still must put the flesh to death (Rom. 8:13). This is what it takes to deny oneself and daily take up your cross (Lk. 9:23). Paul understood this struggle all too well. As he explains in his letter to the Romans: “For we know that the Law is spiritual, but I am of flesh, sold into bondage to sin. For what I am doing, I do not understand; for I am not practicing what I would like to do, but I am doing the very thing I hate. But if I do the very thing I do not want to do, I agree with the Law, confessing that the Law is good. So now, no longer am I the one doing it, but sin which dwells in me. For I know that nothing good dwells in me, that is, in my flesh; for the willing is present in me, but the doing of the good is not. For the good that I want, I do not do, but I practice the very evil that I do not want. But if I am doing the very thing I do not want, I am no longer the one doing it, but sin which dwells in me. I find then the principle that evil is present in me, the one who wants to do good. For I joyfully concur with the law of God in the inner man, but I see a different law in the members of my body, waging war against the law of my mind and making me a prisoner of the law of sin which is in my members. Wretched man that I am! Who will set me free from the body of this death?” (Rom. 7:14-24) How wonderful then to know that we have a mediator who intercedes with the Father on our behalf, Jesus Christ, who gave Himself as a ransom for us (1 Tim. 2:5-6). He is our advocate when we sin (1 Jn. 2:1). Furthermore, because we have Him for an advocate, we know that “if we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness” (1 Jn. 1:9). How blessed we are that the apostle John can say to us with assuredness that “your sins have been forgiven you for His name’s sake” (1 Jn. 2:12). Still, though “He appeared in order to take away sins” (1 Jn. 3:5), let us not continue in them; instead, let us keep our hope fixed on Him and purify ourselves, just as He is pure (1 Jn. 3:3). —————— Spurgeon’s Morning and Evening Devotions Evening, October 4 "If any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous." 1 John 2:1 "If any man sin, we have an advocate." Yes, though we sin, we have Him still. John does not say, "If any man sin he has forfeited his advocate," but "we have an advocate," sinners though we are. All the sin that a believer ever did, or can be allowed to commit, cannot destroy his interest in the Lord Jesus Christ, as his advocate. The name here given to our Lord is suggestive. "Jesus." Ah! then He is an advocate such as we need, for Jesus is the name of one whose business and delight it is to save. "They shall call His name Jesus, for He shall save His people from their sins." His sweetest name implies His success. Next, it is "Jesus Christ"- Christos, the anointed. This shows His authority to plead. The Christ has a right to plead, for He is the Father's own appointed advocate and elected priest. If He were of our choosing He might fail, but if God hath laid help upon one that is mighty, we may safely lay our trouble where God has laid His help. He is Christ, and therefore authorized; He is Christ, and therefore qualified, for the anointing has fully fitted Him for His work. He can plead so as to move the heart of God and prevail. What words of tenderness, what sentences of persuasion will the anointed use when He stands up to plead for me! One more letter of His name remains, "Jesus Christ the righteous." This is not only His character BUT His plea. It is His character, and if the Righteous One be my advocate, then my cause is good, or He would not have espoused it. It is His plea, for He meets the charge of unrighteousness against me by the plea that He is righteous. He declares Himself my substitute and puts His obedience to my account. My soul, thou hast a friend well fitted to be thine advocate, He cannot but succeed; leave thyself entirely in His hands.
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  • Believer, is God unjust in His dealings with humanity? May it never be! Our God is a just God, and any penalties He imposes for sin are surely earned and absolutely justified.

    Yet God is also a merciful God. In His patience, He delayed punishment for many, waiting for the appointed time when His salvation would be revealed in Christ. And so, He how shows mercy and justifies those who believe (Rom. 3:21-26).

    To whom does He show this mercy? To whomever He pleases, according to His will. As Scripture says, “I will have mercy on whom I have mercy…So then, He has mercy on whom He desires…” (Rom. 9:15-18). Does that make Him unjust? By no means!

    As already stated, He is just and justified in condemning those who sin, for that condemnation is earned. Showing mercy to some is in not injustice - it is grace. “Where then is boasting? It is excluded” (Rom. 3:27), because our justification is not earned, it is granted.

    It is God who justifies. It is God who saves. It is God who chooses, as Jesus even said to His disciples, “you did not choose Me, but I chose you” (Jn. 15:16).

    Let us therefore be humbled by the fact that God is “just, and the justifier of the one who has faith” (Rom. 3:26). We have contributed nothing to our salvation except the sin that made it necessary. We do not justify ourselves, but in His mercy, God justifies us according to His will, for His glory. “For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not as a result of works, so that no one may boast” (Eph. 2:8-9).

    ——————
    Spurgeon’s Morning and Evening Devotions

    Morning, September 25

    "Just, and the justifier of him which believeth." Romans 3:26

    Being justified by faith, we have peace with God. Conscience accuses no longer. Judgment now decides for the sinner instead of against him. Memory looks back upon past sins, with deep sorrow for the sin, but yet with no dread of any penalty to come; for Christ has paid the debt of His people to the last jot and tittle, and received the divine receipt; and unless God can be so unjust as to demand double payment for one debt, no soul for whom Jesus died as a substitute can ever be cast into hell. It seems to be one of the very principles of our enlightened nature to believe that God is just; we feel that it must be so, and this gives us our terror at first; but is it not marvellous that this very same belief that God is just, becomes afterwards the pillar of our confidence and peace! If God be just, I, a sinner, alone and without a substitute, must be punished; but Jesus stands in my stead and is punished for me; and now, if God be just, I, a sinner, standing in Christ, can never be punished. God must change His nature before one soul, for whom Jesus was a substitute, can ever by any possibility suffer the lash of the law. Therefore, Jesus having taken the place of the believer- having rendered a full equivalent to divine wrath for all that His people ought to have suffered as the result of sin, the believer can shout with glorious triumph, "Who shall lay anything to the charge of God's elect?" Not God, for He hath justified; not Christ, for He hath died, "yea rather hath risen again." My hope lives not because I am not a sinner, but because I am a sinner for whom Christ died; my trust is not that I am holy, but that being unholy, He is my righteousness. My faith rests not upon what I am, or shall be, or feel, or know, but in what Christ is, in what He has done, and in what He is now doing for me. On the lion of justice the fair maid of hope rides like a queen.
    Believer, is God unjust in His dealings with humanity? May it never be! Our God is a just God, and any penalties He imposes for sin are surely earned and absolutely justified. Yet God is also a merciful God. In His patience, He delayed punishment for many, waiting for the appointed time when His salvation would be revealed in Christ. And so, He how shows mercy and justifies those who believe (Rom. 3:21-26). To whom does He show this mercy? To whomever He pleases, according to His will. As Scripture says, “I will have mercy on whom I have mercy…So then, He has mercy on whom He desires…” (Rom. 9:15-18). Does that make Him unjust? By no means! As already stated, He is just and justified in condemning those who sin, for that condemnation is earned. Showing mercy to some is in not injustice - it is grace. “Where then is boasting? It is excluded” (Rom. 3:27), because our justification is not earned, it is granted. It is God who justifies. It is God who saves. It is God who chooses, as Jesus even said to His disciples, “you did not choose Me, but I chose you” (Jn. 15:16). Let us therefore be humbled by the fact that God is “just, and the justifier of the one who has faith” (Rom. 3:26). We have contributed nothing to our salvation except the sin that made it necessary. We do not justify ourselves, but in His mercy, God justifies us according to His will, for His glory. “For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not as a result of works, so that no one may boast” (Eph. 2:8-9). —————— Spurgeon’s Morning and Evening Devotions Morning, September 25 "Just, and the justifier of him which believeth." Romans 3:26 Being justified by faith, we have peace with God. Conscience accuses no longer. Judgment now decides for the sinner instead of against him. Memory looks back upon past sins, with deep sorrow for the sin, but yet with no dread of any penalty to come; for Christ has paid the debt of His people to the last jot and tittle, and received the divine receipt; and unless God can be so unjust as to demand double payment for one debt, no soul for whom Jesus died as a substitute can ever be cast into hell. It seems to be one of the very principles of our enlightened nature to believe that God is just; we feel that it must be so, and this gives us our terror at first; but is it not marvellous that this very same belief that God is just, becomes afterwards the pillar of our confidence and peace! If God be just, I, a sinner, alone and without a substitute, must be punished; but Jesus stands in my stead and is punished for me; and now, if God be just, I, a sinner, standing in Christ, can never be punished. God must change His nature before one soul, for whom Jesus was a substitute, can ever by any possibility suffer the lash of the law. Therefore, Jesus having taken the place of the believer- having rendered a full equivalent to divine wrath for all that His people ought to have suffered as the result of sin, the believer can shout with glorious triumph, "Who shall lay anything to the charge of God's elect?" Not God, for He hath justified; not Christ, for He hath died, "yea rather hath risen again." My hope lives not because I am not a sinner, but because I am a sinner for whom Christ died; my trust is not that I am holy, but that being unholy, He is my righteousness. My faith rests not upon what I am, or shall be, or feel, or know, but in what Christ is, in what He has done, and in what He is now doing for me. On the lion of justice the fair maid of hope rides like a queen.
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  • Romans 1:16
    For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek.
    Romans 1:16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek.
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  • Intro to ‘In Christ’ Insights…
    https://slantedright2.blogspot.com/2025/09/intro-to-in-christ-insights.html

    SUMMARY: The Rev. Tony Cooke was one of my favorite Instructors in my Bible School days at RHEMA Bible Training Center between 1982-84… Rev. Cooke shares insights under the title ““In Christ” Insights from the 1800s”. Christian history buffs will love this. If you are not a Christian, prayerfully these ‘In Christ’ insights will lead you to the Roman Road to Redemption (Romans 10: 9-13). …TAKE A LOOK!
    #InChrist #TonyCooke
    Intro to ‘In Christ’ Insights… https://slantedright2.blogspot.com/2025/09/intro-to-in-christ-insights.html SUMMARY: The Rev. Tony Cooke was one of my favorite Instructors in my Bible School days at RHEMA Bible Training Center between 1982-84… Rev. Cooke shares insights under the title ““In Christ” Insights from the 1800s”. Christian history buffs will love this. If you are not a Christian, prayerfully these ‘In Christ’ insights will lead you to the Roman Road to Redemption (Romans 10: 9-13). …TAKE A LOOK! #InChrist #TonyCooke
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  • Romans 3:22
    ...Even the righteousness of God through faith in Jesus Christ for all those who believe; for there is no distinction...
    Romans 3:22 ...Even the righteousness of God through faith in Jesus Christ for all those who believe; for there is no distinction...
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  • Romans 12:19
    ...Never taking your own revenge, beloved—instead leave room for the wrath of God. For it is written, “Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,” says the LORD.
    Romans 12:19 ...Never taking your own revenge, beloved—instead leave room for the wrath of God. For it is written, “Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,” says the LORD.
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  • Christian, we are called to be "separate," different from the world around us. It is in the definition of the Greek word translated "church" - ἐκκλησίᾳ (ekklesia), which comes from two Greek words:
    ek - which means "out, or out of" and the verb kaleo, which means "to call." Thus Christians are those who have been "called out" of the world.

    Believer, you are admonished by Scripture to "not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect" (Rom. 12:2).

    We are but sojourners here, awaiting our departure from these earthly tents and our entrance into our eternal home (2 Cor. 4:1). Yet while we dwell here, it is our job to shine light in the darkness. We will have tribulation in this world, but be of strong heart, for Jesus has overcome the world (Jn. 16:33).

    We must remember in times of trouble, when enemies are attacking, the exhortation given us by Paul:

    "Never take your own revenge, beloved, but leave room for the wrath of God, for it is written, 'Vengeance is Mine, I will repay' says the Lord. 'But if your enemy is hungry, feed him, and if he is thirsty, give him a drink; for in so doing you will heap burning coals on his head.' Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good." - Romans 12:19-21

    The world will hate us, for it hated Him first (Jn. 15:18).

    We must remain holy for Christ's sake, because we are called to be holy as He is holy (1 Pet. 1:15). We must rise above, show ourselves different, and allow Christ to live through us so that those who are called will hear His voice and come to Him.

    ------------
    Spurgeon's Morning and Evening Devotions

    Morning, September 11

    "Be ye separate." 2 Corinthians 6:17

    The Christian, while in the world, is not to be of the world. He should be distinguished from it in the great object of his life. To him, "to live," should be "Christ." Whether he eats, or drinks, or whatever he does, he should do all to God's glory. You may lay up treasure; but lay it up in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, where thieves break not through nor steal. You may strive to be rich; but be it your ambition to be "rich in faith," and good works. You may have pleasure; but when you are merry, sing psalms and make melody in your hearts to the Lord. In your spirit, as well as in your aim, you should differ from the world. Waiting humbly before God, always conscious of His presence, delighting in communion with Him, and seeking to know His will, you will prove that you are of heavenly race. And you should be separate from the world in your actions. If a thing be right, though you lose by it, it must be done; if it be wrong, though you would gain by it, you must scorn the sin for your Master's sake. You must have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them. Walk worthy of your high calling and dignity. Remember, O Christian, that thou art a son of the King of kings. Therefore, keep thyself unspotted from the world. Soil not the fingers which are soon to sweep celestial strings; let not these eyes become the windows of lust which are soon to see the King in His beauty- let not those feet be defiled in miry places, which are soon to walk the golden streets- let not those hearts be filled with pride and bitterness which are ere long to be filled with heaven, and to overflow with ecstatic joy.

    Then rise my soul! and soar away,
    Above the thoughtless crowd;
    Above the pleasures of the gay,
    And splendours of the proud;
    Up where eternal beauties bloom,
    And pleasures all divine;
    Where wealth, that never can consume,
    And endless glories shine.



    * yes, my intro this morning was to some degree influenced by the tragic events of yesterday
    Christian, we are called to be "separate," different from the world around us. It is in the definition of the Greek word translated "church" - ἐκκλησίᾳ (ekklesia), which comes from two Greek words: ek - which means "out, or out of" and the verb kaleo, which means "to call." Thus Christians are those who have been "called out" of the world. Believer, you are admonished by Scripture to "not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect" (Rom. 12:2). We are but sojourners here, awaiting our departure from these earthly tents and our entrance into our eternal home (2 Cor. 4:1). Yet while we dwell here, it is our job to shine light in the darkness. We will have tribulation in this world, but be of strong heart, for Jesus has overcome the world (Jn. 16:33). We must remember in times of trouble, when enemies are attacking, the exhortation given us by Paul: "Never take your own revenge, beloved, but leave room for the wrath of God, for it is written, 'Vengeance is Mine, I will repay' says the Lord. 'But if your enemy is hungry, feed him, and if he is thirsty, give him a drink; for in so doing you will heap burning coals on his head.' Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good." - Romans 12:19-21 The world will hate us, for it hated Him first (Jn. 15:18). We must remain holy for Christ's sake, because we are called to be holy as He is holy (1 Pet. 1:15). We must rise above, show ourselves different, and allow Christ to live through us so that those who are called will hear His voice and come to Him. ------------ Spurgeon's Morning and Evening Devotions Morning, September 11 "Be ye separate." 2 Corinthians 6:17 The Christian, while in the world, is not to be of the world. He should be distinguished from it in the great object of his life. To him, "to live," should be "Christ." Whether he eats, or drinks, or whatever he does, he should do all to God's glory. You may lay up treasure; but lay it up in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, where thieves break not through nor steal. You may strive to be rich; but be it your ambition to be "rich in faith," and good works. You may have pleasure; but when you are merry, sing psalms and make melody in your hearts to the Lord. In your spirit, as well as in your aim, you should differ from the world. Waiting humbly before God, always conscious of His presence, delighting in communion with Him, and seeking to know His will, you will prove that you are of heavenly race. And you should be separate from the world in your actions. If a thing be right, though you lose by it, it must be done; if it be wrong, though you would gain by it, you must scorn the sin for your Master's sake. You must have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them. Walk worthy of your high calling and dignity. Remember, O Christian, that thou art a son of the King of kings. Therefore, keep thyself unspotted from the world. Soil not the fingers which are soon to sweep celestial strings; let not these eyes become the windows of lust which are soon to see the King in His beauty- let not those feet be defiled in miry places, which are soon to walk the golden streets- let not those hearts be filled with pride and bitterness which are ere long to be filled with heaven, and to overflow with ecstatic joy. Then rise my soul! and soar away, Above the thoughtless crowd; Above the pleasures of the gay, And splendours of the proud; Up where eternal beauties bloom, And pleasures all divine; Where wealth, that never can consume, And endless glories shine. * yes, my intro this morning was to some degree influenced by the tragic events of yesterday
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  • Romans 5:1-2
    Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our LORD Jesus Christ, through whom also we have obtained our introduction by faith into this grace in which we stand; and we boast in hope of the glory of God.
    #SundaySentiments
    Romans 5:1-2 Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our LORD Jesus Christ, through whom also we have obtained our introduction by faith into this grace in which we stand; and we boast in hope of the glory of God. #SundaySentiments
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  • Romans 16:17
    Now I urge you, brothers, to keep your eye on those who cause dissensions and stumblings contrary to the teaching which you learned, and turn away from them.
    #TuesdayTidbit
    Romans 16:17 Now I urge you, brothers, to keep your eye on those who cause dissensions and stumblings contrary to the teaching which you learned, and turn away from them. #TuesdayTidbit
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  • Romans 3:22
    Even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe: for there is no difference...
    #MondayMeditation
    Romans 3:22 Even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe: for there is no difference... #MondayMeditation
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