Cathy Bryant's Blog: CatBryant.com ~ Journey Blog, page 56
March 24, 2013
A Shout Out for Reviewers and Bloggers for PILGRIMAGE OF PROMISE
Hi everyone! Well, book four in the Miller's Creek Novels is finally finished, and I'm more than delighted with how it turned out. Of all four books, Pilgrimage of Promise was by far the easiest to write. I guess it's because I've known Mama Beth since book one, and she's been patiently waiting for me to tell her story.
So now I'm looking for folks that might want to help get the word out about the book either through your honest review on places like a personal blog, Amazon, Barnes & Noble, GoodReads, Shelfari, LibraryThing, Smashwords, etc. or through allowing a guest post or book spotlight post at your blog.
If you're interested in either one or both options, please contact me at catbry1(at)yahoo(dot)com and put PILGRIMAGE OF PROMISE in the subject line. I'll get you further instructions on how to get a free review copy. (Just so you know, I have a limited number of these free review copies...)
Here's the book blurb:
A dusty stack of unopened love letters forces Bo and Mona Beth Miller to revisit a part of their past they’d rather leave buried –especially in the face of death .
Only as they retrace history will they learn the truth about the
shattered promise that threatens to come between them. But can their
relationship endure the deception and sabotage they unearth, or will the
experience compel them to trust more fully in the promises that never
fail?
The book is currently available in print format HERE, and should start popping up at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, etc. within the next few weeks. For those of you with Kindles, the book is already available at Amazon. If you have another type of eReader, the book is currently available in many different electronic formats at Smashwords. This is only for a limited time since I will eventually make the eBook exclusive to Amazon. So if you want an electronic copy for a reader other than Kindle, now is the time to get it. You can also read several chapters of the book for free at Smashwords.
Thanks for all your help in spreading the word about Pilgrimage of Promise.
March 23, 2013
5 Keys to National Success
Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord,
the people he chose for his inheritance. ~Psalm 33:12 (NIV)
We can learn a lot from the young nation of Israel about national success. Sometimes their example was a positive one, but more often than not, the picture painted is what NOT to do.
Background
Because the armies of Israel decided to use the ark of the covenant as a way of insuring that God's presence was with them during battle--in other words, superstitiously--the ark was captured by the Philistines. But in whichever city the ark happened to land, God's hand was strong against them and brought a plague upon them. Finally the Philistines had enough and sent it back to Israel. The ark landed at Kiriath Jearim where it stayed for twenty years (1 Samuel 7:2).
Although Israel had captured the Promised Land, they had not followed through in ridding the land of foreign gods. Unfortunately, the people had even begun to add the worship of these foreign gods to their worship of the One True God, in spite of God's command to worship Him alone.
Key #1: National Mourning
"...and all the people of Israel mourned..." (1 Samuel 7:2, NIV)
The ark of the covenant was topped with the mercy seat where God's presence dwelt. Originally, the ark was only kept in the inner chamber of the tabernacle in the Holy of Holies. Somewhere along the way, the people had lost their awareness of the the holiness of God. They had exchanged the Truth for a lie. God no longer gave them the blessings and victory they'd once experienced as a nation. Appropriately, the response of the people was mourning.
Why? Because they came to realize their pride, disobedience, and wandering away from God and His ways. True repentance involves mourning, and God honors that attitude.
My sacrifice, O God, is a broken spirit;
a broken and contrite heart
you, God, will not despise. ~Psalm 51:17(NIV)
Key #2: Seeking After God Wholeheartedly
"...and sought after the Lord." (1Samuel 7:2, NIV)
We are the ones to wander away. Once we realize we're on the wrong path, we need to seek after Him until we find Him. And it's not enough to seek Him with divided loyalties. God won't be manipulated by our half-hearted attempts to serve Him. We either must seek Him with all our hearts or not at all.
You will seek Me and find Me when you seek Me with all your heart. ~Jeremiah 29:13 (NIV)
Key #3: Get Rid of Foreign gods
And Samuel said to the whole house of Israel, "If you are returning to the LORD with all your heart, then rid yourselves of the foreign gods and the Ashtoreths..." (1 Samuel 7:3, NIV)
This is where I see the greatest parallel between ancient Israel and modern-day America. Our country was founded on Christian principles, yet everyday we grow further away from God, seduced by the foreign gods of materialism, self, and tolerance (just to name a few). As God's people, we must not only mourn and seek after God with our whole hearts, but rid ourselves of divided loyalties. In fact, it's not possible to seek God with the entirety of our being if we relegate Him to only certain parts of our lives.
"You shall have no other gods before me. You shall not make for yourself an idol in the form of anything in heaven above or on the earth beneath or in the waters below. You shall not bow down to them or worship them; for I, the LORD your God, am a jealous God..." ~Exodus 20:3-5 (NIV)
Key #4: Commit Your Life to God
"...and commit yourselves to the LORD..." (1Samuel 7:3, NIV)
The definition of "commit" used in this context is to "entrust." We are to give all that we are to the LORD, allowing Him free access to every part of our life so that He might use us for His purposes.
Trust in the Lord with all your heart
and lean not on your own understanding;
in all your ways submit to Him,
and he will make your paths straight. ~Proverbs 3:5-6 (NIV)
Key #5: Serve Him Only
"...and serve Him only, and He will deliver you out of the hand of the Philistines." (1 Samuel 7:3, NIV)
We've become a nation of self-serving people. Our worst enemy is ourselves! If we don't serve God and Him alone, we won't be able to stand before our enemies. Only when we serve God with all that we are will He deliver us. There are things in our lives individually and on a national level that must be devoted to destruction and removed for us to be successful as individuals and as a nation under God.
“Go, consecrate the people. Tell them, ‘Consecrate yourselves in preparation for tomorrow; for this is what the Lord, the God of Israel, says: There are devoted things among you, Israel. You cannot stand against your enemies until you remove them.'" ~Joshua 7:13 (NIV)
Heavenly Father, we fall on our knees before You, confessing that our nation has gone down the wrong path. And though we may not have followed willingly, we confess that we have done very little to stop it. We sacrifice babies to the god of convenience. We tolerate what you call an abomination. We spend our lives pursuing things instead of You. God, break our hearts and cause us to mourn for our nation. Help us to set the example by seeking after You wholeheartedly, putting aside and destroying the false gods among us. Our lives are Yours. You are the One who has made us and not we ourselves. We belong to You, to serve You according to Your design instead of our agenda. Teach us to serve You only and seek first You and Your kingdom and Your righteousness. Then all those things we need You will gladly provide, and in addition, give us the ability to stand before forces of evil that threaten us. Amen.
the people he chose for his inheritance. ~Psalm 33:12 (NIV)
We can learn a lot from the young nation of Israel about national success. Sometimes their example was a positive one, but more often than not, the picture painted is what NOT to do.
Background
Because the armies of Israel decided to use the ark of the covenant as a way of insuring that God's presence was with them during battle--in other words, superstitiously--the ark was captured by the Philistines. But in whichever city the ark happened to land, God's hand was strong against them and brought a plague upon them. Finally the Philistines had enough and sent it back to Israel. The ark landed at Kiriath Jearim where it stayed for twenty years (1 Samuel 7:2).
Although Israel had captured the Promised Land, they had not followed through in ridding the land of foreign gods. Unfortunately, the people had even begun to add the worship of these foreign gods to their worship of the One True God, in spite of God's command to worship Him alone.
Key #1: National Mourning
"...and all the people of Israel mourned..." (1 Samuel 7:2, NIV)
The ark of the covenant was topped with the mercy seat where God's presence dwelt. Originally, the ark was only kept in the inner chamber of the tabernacle in the Holy of Holies. Somewhere along the way, the people had lost their awareness of the the holiness of God. They had exchanged the Truth for a lie. God no longer gave them the blessings and victory they'd once experienced as a nation. Appropriately, the response of the people was mourning.
Why? Because they came to realize their pride, disobedience, and wandering away from God and His ways. True repentance involves mourning, and God honors that attitude.
My sacrifice, O God, is a broken spirit;
a broken and contrite heart
you, God, will not despise. ~Psalm 51:17(NIV)
Key #2: Seeking After God Wholeheartedly
"...and sought after the Lord." (1Samuel 7:2, NIV)
We are the ones to wander away. Once we realize we're on the wrong path, we need to seek after Him until we find Him. And it's not enough to seek Him with divided loyalties. God won't be manipulated by our half-hearted attempts to serve Him. We either must seek Him with all our hearts or not at all.
You will seek Me and find Me when you seek Me with all your heart. ~Jeremiah 29:13 (NIV)
Key #3: Get Rid of Foreign gods
And Samuel said to the whole house of Israel, "If you are returning to the LORD with all your heart, then rid yourselves of the foreign gods and the Ashtoreths..." (1 Samuel 7:3, NIV)
This is where I see the greatest parallel between ancient Israel and modern-day America. Our country was founded on Christian principles, yet everyday we grow further away from God, seduced by the foreign gods of materialism, self, and tolerance (just to name a few). As God's people, we must not only mourn and seek after God with our whole hearts, but rid ourselves of divided loyalties. In fact, it's not possible to seek God with the entirety of our being if we relegate Him to only certain parts of our lives.
"You shall have no other gods before me. You shall not make for yourself an idol in the form of anything in heaven above or on the earth beneath or in the waters below. You shall not bow down to them or worship them; for I, the LORD your God, am a jealous God..." ~Exodus 20:3-5 (NIV)
Key #4: Commit Your Life to God
"...and commit yourselves to the LORD..." (1Samuel 7:3, NIV)
The definition of "commit" used in this context is to "entrust." We are to give all that we are to the LORD, allowing Him free access to every part of our life so that He might use us for His purposes.
Trust in the Lord with all your heart
and lean not on your own understanding;
in all your ways submit to Him,
and he will make your paths straight. ~Proverbs 3:5-6 (NIV)
Key #5: Serve Him Only
"...and serve Him only, and He will deliver you out of the hand of the Philistines." (1 Samuel 7:3, NIV)
We've become a nation of self-serving people. Our worst enemy is ourselves! If we don't serve God and Him alone, we won't be able to stand before our enemies. Only when we serve God with all that we are will He deliver us. There are things in our lives individually and on a national level that must be devoted to destruction and removed for us to be successful as individuals and as a nation under God.
“Go, consecrate the people. Tell them, ‘Consecrate yourselves in preparation for tomorrow; for this is what the Lord, the God of Israel, says: There are devoted things among you, Israel. You cannot stand against your enemies until you remove them.'" ~Joshua 7:13 (NIV)
Heavenly Father, we fall on our knees before You, confessing that our nation has gone down the wrong path. And though we may not have followed willingly, we confess that we have done very little to stop it. We sacrifice babies to the god of convenience. We tolerate what you call an abomination. We spend our lives pursuing things instead of You. God, break our hearts and cause us to mourn for our nation. Help us to set the example by seeking after You wholeheartedly, putting aside and destroying the false gods among us. Our lives are Yours. You are the One who has made us and not we ourselves. We belong to You, to serve You according to Your design instead of our agenda. Teach us to serve You only and seek first You and Your kingdom and Your righteousness. Then all those things we need You will gladly provide, and in addition, give us the ability to stand before forces of evil that threaten us. Amen.
Free Christian Kindle Books for March 23, 2013
Want a way to read all these great Kindle freebies without purchasing a Kindle? Check out this post that tells you how. All the books listed
here are free at the time of posting, but these free e-books change to
pay status very quickly. Always check to make sure the books are indeed
free before you click to buy. Also, I want to offer readers only the
most highly rated books, so all books listed are at least 4 out of 5
stars with at least 5 reviews. Just so you know, I have not read
all
these books, so I can't testify to their content or scriptural accuracy
though I try to be discerning about which books I share on WordVessel.
Happy reading!
The Missing Calico
by Sylvia A. Nash
Suspense: When Assistant Professor Millicent Anderson
determines to help her childhood friend and colleague, Will Pollard,
prepare for an interview at a major university, she has no idea how
difficult or dangerous a task it will be. She soon realizes that to help
him, she must stay ahead of a cunning villain determined to drive Will
over the edge—perhaps literally—20 years after an intruder murdered his
fiancée and stole an antique porcelain calico cat. Tenure obstacles, an
unexpected love tangle, and the reappearance of the missing figurine
complicate Millicent’s task of saving Will’s life—and her own—before it
is too late.
4.8 stars with 5 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
Seven-X
by Mike Wech
Suspense/Thriller: SEVEN-X is the first book in the SEVEN-X Trilogy, revolving around Los
Angeles Times Investigative Reporter Eddie Hansen, who gets a tip on a
missing death row prisoner being held at a Behavioral Health Center in a
remote location outside the small town of Dell City, Texas. With an
opportunity to break the story, Eddie voluntarily commits himself into
the asylum in hopes of finding Annette Dobson, "The SIDS Killer." She is
rumored to have had her execution faked so she could be shipped to the
asylum, have an exorcism and give birth to the child the world thinks is
dead.
Eddie's journals, video diary and recordings leave a
trail of breadcrumbs into experimental procedures conducted on patients
without their consent. As he dives deeper into his investigation, Eddie
is forced to confront his own demons as an unwilling participant in the
asylum's controversial rehabilitation procedures.
4.1 stars with 90 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
Memories of Finding Faith
by Heidi Kreider
Fiction: Some people look back on a certain day as the day they found faith. It
takes others, like Rob Adams, years of living to find the joy and peace a
life of faith can bring. Through the letters of his friend, Liz, Rob
revisits the memories of his life... early childhood trauma that led to
adoption, a severe accident that opened the door to prescription drug
addiction, and an incredible music career that led him back to the woman
he always loved. These things swirled together through the tapestry of
his life to help him eventually find the peace and joy faith in Jesus
Christ brings.
4.8 stars with 5 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
The Gospel of John (with devotional notes)
Bible: 'John's Gospel sheds a unique light not only on the ministry of Jesus
Christ, but also on the nature of his relationship with God the Father.
This eBook also includes a special section of 'Subjects on the Theme of
Salvation' that gives insight into 15 subjects of salvation. NIV 2011.
The New International Version (NIV) translation of the Bible is the
world's most popular modern-English Bible---easy to understand, yet rich
with the detail found in the original languages.'
4.3 stars with 27 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
Talk Truth to Yourself
by Brian Williams
Non-fiction: Every day you have thousands of choices to make. These choices
determine what you do, how you act, what results and consequences you’ll
have in your life and even who you become. The decisions we make are
based on our beliefs. The problem is that many of our beliefs are based
on wrong thinking that has been ingrained in our lives and has become
truth to us even though it may be wrong or harmful. If you are
struggling to overcome something or want to experience the victory of
walking by faith in every area of your life, this book is for you.
Contained in Talk Truth to Yourself is a powerful promise from God’s
Word for every day of the year combined with the affirmation to claim
each promise for your life. Over time allow the God's promises in this
book to change your very thinking.
5 stars with 8 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
here are free at the time of posting, but these free e-books change to
pay status very quickly. Always check to make sure the books are indeed
free before you click to buy. Also, I want to offer readers only the
most highly rated books, so all books listed are at least 4 out of 5
stars with at least 5 reviews. Just so you know, I have not read
all
these books, so I can't testify to their content or scriptural accuracy
though I try to be discerning about which books I share on WordVessel.
Happy reading!
The Missing Calico
by Sylvia A. Nash
Suspense: When Assistant Professor Millicent Anderson
determines to help her childhood friend and colleague, Will Pollard,
prepare for an interview at a major university, she has no idea how
difficult or dangerous a task it will be. She soon realizes that to help
him, she must stay ahead of a cunning villain determined to drive Will
over the edge—perhaps literally—20 years after an intruder murdered his
fiancée and stole an antique porcelain calico cat. Tenure obstacles, an
unexpected love tangle, and the reappearance of the missing figurine
complicate Millicent’s task of saving Will’s life—and her own—before it
is too late.
4.8 stars with 5 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
Seven-X
by Mike Wech
Suspense/Thriller: SEVEN-X is the first book in the SEVEN-X Trilogy, revolving around Los
Angeles Times Investigative Reporter Eddie Hansen, who gets a tip on a
missing death row prisoner being held at a Behavioral Health Center in a
remote location outside the small town of Dell City, Texas. With an
opportunity to break the story, Eddie voluntarily commits himself into
the asylum in hopes of finding Annette Dobson, "The SIDS Killer." She is
rumored to have had her execution faked so she could be shipped to the
asylum, have an exorcism and give birth to the child the world thinks is
dead.
Eddie's journals, video diary and recordings leave a
trail of breadcrumbs into experimental procedures conducted on patients
without their consent. As he dives deeper into his investigation, Eddie
is forced to confront his own demons as an unwilling participant in the
asylum's controversial rehabilitation procedures.
4.1 stars with 90 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
Memories of Finding Faith
by Heidi Kreider
Fiction: Some people look back on a certain day as the day they found faith. It
takes others, like Rob Adams, years of living to find the joy and peace a
life of faith can bring. Through the letters of his friend, Liz, Rob
revisits the memories of his life... early childhood trauma that led to
adoption, a severe accident that opened the door to prescription drug
addiction, and an incredible music career that led him back to the woman
he always loved. These things swirled together through the tapestry of
his life to help him eventually find the peace and joy faith in Jesus
Christ brings.
4.8 stars with 5 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
The Gospel of John (with devotional notes)
Bible: 'John's Gospel sheds a unique light not only on the ministry of Jesus
Christ, but also on the nature of his relationship with God the Father.
This eBook also includes a special section of 'Subjects on the Theme of
Salvation' that gives insight into 15 subjects of salvation. NIV 2011.
The New International Version (NIV) translation of the Bible is the
world's most popular modern-English Bible---easy to understand, yet rich
with the detail found in the original languages.'
4.3 stars with 27 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
Talk Truth to Yourself
by Brian Williams
Non-fiction: Every day you have thousands of choices to make. These choices
determine what you do, how you act, what results and consequences you’ll
have in your life and even who you become. The decisions we make are
based on our beliefs. The problem is that many of our beliefs are based
on wrong thinking that has been ingrained in our lives and has become
truth to us even though it may be wrong or harmful. If you are
struggling to overcome something or want to experience the victory of
walking by faith in every area of your life, this book is for you.
Contained in Talk Truth to Yourself is a powerful promise from God’s
Word for every day of the year combined with the affirmation to claim
each promise for your life. Over time allow the God's promises in this
book to change your very thinking.
5 stars with 8 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
March 22, 2013
Just One Thing
Couldn't everyone see how busy I was? If so, then why did they keep adding more to my plate?
I had a book to get out and promote, a quickly-approaching Easter cantata with a solo I was supposed to sing, and another night with yet another extra activity I hadn't planned on. And somewhere in the midst of all that I was supposed to prepare for a move that spanned four states, do our taxes and the taxes for our business, find time to travel across the four previously-mentioned states for a house inspection, vacate the premises when a realtor wanted to show our current home (and keep it clean in the process of moving), and so on and so on.
I was S.T.R.E.S.S.E.D!!!!
And just like Martha, I grumbled to the Lord. "Lord, can't you do something about this? I have too much to do and not enough hours in the day. And no one seems to care enough to consider my schedule when they add something else to my to-do list without even asking."
His still, small voice drowned out my complaint with these words:
"Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered, “you are worried and upset about many things, but few things are needed—or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.” ~Luke 10:41-42 (NIV)
Life often seems to move at supersonic speed to the point that I cry out: "Stop this treadmill and let me off!"
At those frantic and hectic times, our best response is to still our anxious thoughts and turn them to the Lord. He has promised strength in our weakness, joy and peace for the journey, and His eternal presence. We are the ones who give far too much importance to our agendas--even (and especially) when many of our tasks are meant to be loving service for the Lord.
Let the words that Christ spoke to Martha also speak to us. Just one thing is needed, and that is to sit at His feet in humble obedience and with a listening heart. It is there we will rediscover our peace and joy, relinquish our puny strength for His, and realize that He is always with us.
I had a book to get out and promote, a quickly-approaching Easter cantata with a solo I was supposed to sing, and another night with yet another extra activity I hadn't planned on. And somewhere in the midst of all that I was supposed to prepare for a move that spanned four states, do our taxes and the taxes for our business, find time to travel across the four previously-mentioned states for a house inspection, vacate the premises when a realtor wanted to show our current home (and keep it clean in the process of moving), and so on and so on.
I was S.T.R.E.S.S.E.D!!!!
And just like Martha, I grumbled to the Lord. "Lord, can't you do something about this? I have too much to do and not enough hours in the day. And no one seems to care enough to consider my schedule when they add something else to my to-do list without even asking."
His still, small voice drowned out my complaint with these words:
"Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered, “you are worried and upset about many things, but few things are needed—or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.” ~Luke 10:41-42 (NIV)
Life often seems to move at supersonic speed to the point that I cry out: "Stop this treadmill and let me off!"
At those frantic and hectic times, our best response is to still our anxious thoughts and turn them to the Lord. He has promised strength in our weakness, joy and peace for the journey, and His eternal presence. We are the ones who give far too much importance to our agendas--even (and especially) when many of our tasks are meant to be loving service for the Lord.
Let the words that Christ spoke to Martha also speak to us. Just one thing is needed, and that is to sit at His feet in humble obedience and with a listening heart. It is there we will rediscover our peace and joy, relinquish our puny strength for His, and realize that He is always with us.
Free Christian Kindle Books for March 22, 2013
Want a way to read all these great Kindle freebies without purchasing a Kindle? Check out this post that tells you how. All the books listed
here are free at the time of posting, but these free e-books change to
pay status very quickly. Always check to make sure the books are indeed
free before you click to buy. Also, I want to offer readers only the
most highly rated books, so all books listed are at least 4 out of 5
stars with at least 5 reviews. Just so you know, I have not read
all
these books, so I can't testify to their content or scriptural accuracy
though I try to be discerning about which books I share on WordVessel.
Happy reading!
Unconventional
by J.J.Hebert
Contemporary Fiction: YOUNG JAMES FROST just knows, deep in his bones, that he's a writer. He
writes far into early mornings, after his wearying hours of scrubbing
toilets and sweeping floors. He loves writing that much. But
it's not only the joy of words that keeps him grinding; it's his desire
to retire the janitor's mop. He sees being published as the key to
living an improved life. James has another deep-seated conviction: that
he's not good enough. He secretly longs to be accepted. However, the
conventional others in his life seem all too willing to remind him that
he's wasting his time. Then he meets and falls in love with
Leigh, the one bright spot in his endless misery of self-doubt. A quiet
but resolutely religious girl, she has to fight off disapproval of her
own from overly critical parents, whose insults are countered by James's
often-voiced admiration of her. Likewise, Leigh's faith in his talents
begins to build his confidence, eventually allowing her to introduce him
to a different way to help himself: relying on God. Ultimately,
James's newfound faith is sorely tested to the point of doubt when his
dream to be published seems to melt into a mirage, smothered by
countless rejection slips from agents and publishers. His faith is also
battered by having to fight highly emotional battles and suffer fear and
loss. Just when James appears hopelessly sapped by devastating events,
one last door opens, and he's rocked by an epiphany.
4.5 stars with 113 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
Gold Stars
by Samuel L. Lytle
Contemporary Fiction: If a reality television program gave cash rewards for random acts of
kindness, would you be more willing to help your neighbor? If everyone
watched this show and were thus 'motivated' to serve at every
opportunity, what would be the net effect? When Parker learns
that he has yet one more class before he can graduate college, he
decides to use the course on social interactions to convince his famous
professor that people really will help without want of reward. As he and
his faithful group orchestrate an unprecedented project testing if
strangers will move 'the obstacle out of the path', the actions catch
the attention of a local columnist trying to save a dying newspaper and
Minister who believes the power of media should be used to spread moral
values. The eventual result is a local reality TV show where
unknowing participants who assist in staged situations of despair are
rewarded with cash. At first, those responsible for the program just
hope to remind the viewers of the joy of service and reward those who
deserve it. When the ratings soar and the entire community begins
practically falling over each other at service opportunities, however,
some begin to question the intent of the participants. Even with
this altruistic transformation making sweeping positive changes,
opposition still arises claiming that if the motivation is suspect, the
goodness accomplished is null and void. As the controversy climaxes and
the show is forced into premature cancellation, Parker and his new
friends hold their breath wondering if these incredible changes will
last. This unconventional adventure of service, betrayal,
romance, and friendship flirts with the answers to some of life's
greatest questions and will have you wondering along with the
characters, 'why do I do good things?'
4.6 stars with 5 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
Kaleidoscope Summer
by Rita Garcia
Romance: Samantha Forrester has it all together. Deafness at age fifteen has not
hampered her success. Life, although predictable, has hit a comfortable
stride. Her world crumbles when secrets of the past are brought
to light. She travels to Serenity Cove to settle her birth mother's
estate and search for her true identity. Samantha soon becomes enamored
with the town. And then there's police chief Logan Delatorre who
startles her pulse, and grandparents who refuse to acknowledge her. More
mystery unfolds when an attack is levied against her--someone wants her
out of Serenity Cove. Samantha's faith is called into question
when she stumbles over the need to forgive. Can Dr. Ellie Clarimonde
help her connect the pieces of her past and learn the power of
forgiveness?
4.7 stars with 12 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
God Built
by Steve Farrar
Nonfiction: Our
world is in desperate need of bold, passionate men of integrity. Yet
such men aren't born; they're built, shaped, and formed by God. Best-selling
author Steve Farrar will guide you through the story of Joseph, a
humble shepherd who overcame tremendous odds to become an influential
leader. It's here you will discover the process that creates true men of
God, where He works providentially, strangely, and slowly. Uncover the
biblical pattern for growth, gain insights into common frustrations and
difficulties, and become equipped for the journey ahead.
4.8 stars with 12 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
The Soul-Winner: Or How to Lead Sinners to the Saviour
by Charles Spurgeon
Nonfiction: This volume is issued in accordance with a plan formed by Mr. Spurgeon;
indeed, he had already prepared for the press the greater part of the
material here published, and the rest of his manuscripts have been
inserted after only slight revision. It was his intention to deliver to
the students of the Pastors' College a short course of Lectures upon
what he termed "that most royal employment"—SOUL-WINNING,—and, having
completed the series, he purposed to collect his previous utterances to
other audiences upon the same theme, and to publish the whole for the
guidance of all who desired to become soul-winners, and with the hope
also of inducing many more professing Christians to engage in this truly
blessed service for the Saviour. This explanation will account for
the form in which the topic is treated in the present book. The first
six chapters contain the College Lectures; then follow four Addresses
delivered to Sunday-school teachers, open-air preachers, and friends
gathered at Monday evening prayer-meetings at the Tabernacle; while the
rest of the volume consists of Sermons in which the work of winning
souls is earnestly commended to the attention of every believer in the
Lord Jesus Christ. For more than forty years, Mr. Spurgeon was, by
his preaching and writing, one of the greatest soul-winners; and by his
printed words he still continues to be the means of the conversion of
many all over the world. It is believed, therefore, that thousands will
rejoice to read what he spoke and wrote concerning what he called "the
chief business of the Christian minister."
4.7 stars with 25 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
here are free at the time of posting, but these free e-books change to
pay status very quickly. Always check to make sure the books are indeed
free before you click to buy. Also, I want to offer readers only the
most highly rated books, so all books listed are at least 4 out of 5
stars with at least 5 reviews. Just so you know, I have not read
all
these books, so I can't testify to their content or scriptural accuracy
though I try to be discerning about which books I share on WordVessel.
Happy reading!
Unconventional
by J.J.Hebert
Contemporary Fiction: YOUNG JAMES FROST just knows, deep in his bones, that he's a writer. He
writes far into early mornings, after his wearying hours of scrubbing
toilets and sweeping floors. He loves writing that much. But
it's not only the joy of words that keeps him grinding; it's his desire
to retire the janitor's mop. He sees being published as the key to
living an improved life. James has another deep-seated conviction: that
he's not good enough. He secretly longs to be accepted. However, the
conventional others in his life seem all too willing to remind him that
he's wasting his time. Then he meets and falls in love with
Leigh, the one bright spot in his endless misery of self-doubt. A quiet
but resolutely religious girl, she has to fight off disapproval of her
own from overly critical parents, whose insults are countered by James's
often-voiced admiration of her. Likewise, Leigh's faith in his talents
begins to build his confidence, eventually allowing her to introduce him
to a different way to help himself: relying on God. Ultimately,
James's newfound faith is sorely tested to the point of doubt when his
dream to be published seems to melt into a mirage, smothered by
countless rejection slips from agents and publishers. His faith is also
battered by having to fight highly emotional battles and suffer fear and
loss. Just when James appears hopelessly sapped by devastating events,
one last door opens, and he's rocked by an epiphany.
4.5 stars with 113 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
Gold Stars
by Samuel L. Lytle
Contemporary Fiction: If a reality television program gave cash rewards for random acts of
kindness, would you be more willing to help your neighbor? If everyone
watched this show and were thus 'motivated' to serve at every
opportunity, what would be the net effect? When Parker learns
that he has yet one more class before he can graduate college, he
decides to use the course on social interactions to convince his famous
professor that people really will help without want of reward. As he and
his faithful group orchestrate an unprecedented project testing if
strangers will move 'the obstacle out of the path', the actions catch
the attention of a local columnist trying to save a dying newspaper and
Minister who believes the power of media should be used to spread moral
values. The eventual result is a local reality TV show where
unknowing participants who assist in staged situations of despair are
rewarded with cash. At first, those responsible for the program just
hope to remind the viewers of the joy of service and reward those who
deserve it. When the ratings soar and the entire community begins
practically falling over each other at service opportunities, however,
some begin to question the intent of the participants. Even with
this altruistic transformation making sweeping positive changes,
opposition still arises claiming that if the motivation is suspect, the
goodness accomplished is null and void. As the controversy climaxes and
the show is forced into premature cancellation, Parker and his new
friends hold their breath wondering if these incredible changes will
last. This unconventional adventure of service, betrayal,
romance, and friendship flirts with the answers to some of life's
greatest questions and will have you wondering along with the
characters, 'why do I do good things?'
4.6 stars with 5 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
Kaleidoscope Summer
by Rita Garcia
Romance: Samantha Forrester has it all together. Deafness at age fifteen has not
hampered her success. Life, although predictable, has hit a comfortable
stride. Her world crumbles when secrets of the past are brought
to light. She travels to Serenity Cove to settle her birth mother's
estate and search for her true identity. Samantha soon becomes enamored
with the town. And then there's police chief Logan Delatorre who
startles her pulse, and grandparents who refuse to acknowledge her. More
mystery unfolds when an attack is levied against her--someone wants her
out of Serenity Cove. Samantha's faith is called into question
when she stumbles over the need to forgive. Can Dr. Ellie Clarimonde
help her connect the pieces of her past and learn the power of
forgiveness?
4.7 stars with 12 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
God Built
by Steve Farrar
Nonfiction: Our
world is in desperate need of bold, passionate men of integrity. Yet
such men aren't born; they're built, shaped, and formed by God. Best-selling
author Steve Farrar will guide you through the story of Joseph, a
humble shepherd who overcame tremendous odds to become an influential
leader. It's here you will discover the process that creates true men of
God, where He works providentially, strangely, and slowly. Uncover the
biblical pattern for growth, gain insights into common frustrations and
difficulties, and become equipped for the journey ahead.
4.8 stars with 12 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
The Soul-Winner: Or How to Lead Sinners to the Saviour
by Charles Spurgeon
Nonfiction: This volume is issued in accordance with a plan formed by Mr. Spurgeon;
indeed, he had already prepared for the press the greater part of the
material here published, and the rest of his manuscripts have been
inserted after only slight revision. It was his intention to deliver to
the students of the Pastors' College a short course of Lectures upon
what he termed "that most royal employment"—SOUL-WINNING,—and, having
completed the series, he purposed to collect his previous utterances to
other audiences upon the same theme, and to publish the whole for the
guidance of all who desired to become soul-winners, and with the hope
also of inducing many more professing Christians to engage in this truly
blessed service for the Saviour. This explanation will account for
the form in which the topic is treated in the present book. The first
six chapters contain the College Lectures; then follow four Addresses
delivered to Sunday-school teachers, open-air preachers, and friends
gathered at Monday evening prayer-meetings at the Tabernacle; while the
rest of the volume consists of Sermons in which the work of winning
souls is earnestly commended to the attention of every believer in the
Lord Jesus Christ. For more than forty years, Mr. Spurgeon was, by
his preaching and writing, one of the greatest soul-winners; and by his
printed words he still continues to be the means of the conversion of
many all over the world. It is believed, therefore, that thousands will
rejoice to read what he spoke and wrote concerning what he called "the
chief business of the Christian minister."
4.7 stars with 25 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
In Us and Through Us
"The LORD was with Samuel as he grew up,and He let none of his words fall to the ground." ~1 Samuel 3:19 (NIV)
Background :
A woman named Hannah was barren and prayed for a child. Her barrenness was such a concern for her that she couldn't eat and wept bitterly as she prayed to the LORD. Finally she made a vow that if the LORD would bless her with a child, she would devote the child to Him. God answered her prayer, and as soon as the child was weaned, Hannah took him to live at the temple with Eli the priest.
Samuel slept in the temple, the very place the people expected to hear from God. One night the LORD called to him. He thought it was Eli speaking, so he got up and went to him three different times. Eli finally realized that God was calling Samuel and told him to say, "Speak, for your servant is listening."
"Listening" :
The original Hebrew word for listening means more than simple hearing. It means to hear with a view of obeying. So when Samuel said he was listening, it meant that he intended to do whatever God told him to do.
And his first task was not a simple one. God gave him a message of judgement against Eli, the man who had been like a father to him. The next morning Eli encouraged Samuel to speak fully what the LORD had told him. He did.
With Us :
Because of Samuel's obedience to God's revealed Word, the LORD was with him. When Christ came to earth, He was Emmanuel, God with us. When we obediently submit our lives to the Lordship of Christ, the Holy Spirit indwells us. Think of it! God in us! That one thought alone should provoke holy awe in us. Almighty God, the Creator of the universe, dwells within. If we could only keep that thought in our mind at all times, how would it affect our lives?
His Word :
We are called to be ambassadors for Christ (2 Corinthians 5:20). Christ is the Word (John 1:1), and we are earthen vessels filled with the treasure of who He is (2 Corinthians 4:7). The reason that none of Samuel's words fell to the ground is because he spoke God's Word.
Application :
God's Word is a treasure not to be taken lightly. It is powerful enough to create the universe. That power is released when we speak God's Word, and His Word will accomplish His Divine Will.
"As the rain and the snow
come down from heaven,
and do not return to it
without watering the earth
and making it bud and flourish,
so that it yields seed for the sower and bread for the eater,
so is My word that goes out from My mouth:
It will not return to Me empty,
but will accomplish what I desire
and achieve the purpose for which I sent it." ~Isaiah 55:10-11 (NIV)
Father, we praise You for who You are: our Almighty and Holy God. Thank You, LORD, for the power of Your Word. How awesome that the world and all that is in it was created by the power of Your spoken Word. Help us to always keep in mind that Your Spirit dwells within us, and as Your people we have a great treasure to share with the world. Give us a holy boldness to proclaim Your Word, knowing that it will accomplish Your plan and purpose. In Jesus' name we pray, Amen.
Background :
A woman named Hannah was barren and prayed for a child. Her barrenness was such a concern for her that she couldn't eat and wept bitterly as she prayed to the LORD. Finally she made a vow that if the LORD would bless her with a child, she would devote the child to Him. God answered her prayer, and as soon as the child was weaned, Hannah took him to live at the temple with Eli the priest.
Samuel slept in the temple, the very place the people expected to hear from God. One night the LORD called to him. He thought it was Eli speaking, so he got up and went to him three different times. Eli finally realized that God was calling Samuel and told him to say, "Speak, for your servant is listening."
"Listening" :
The original Hebrew word for listening means more than simple hearing. It means to hear with a view of obeying. So when Samuel said he was listening, it meant that he intended to do whatever God told him to do.
And his first task was not a simple one. God gave him a message of judgement against Eli, the man who had been like a father to him. The next morning Eli encouraged Samuel to speak fully what the LORD had told him. He did.
With Us :
Because of Samuel's obedience to God's revealed Word, the LORD was with him. When Christ came to earth, He was Emmanuel, God with us. When we obediently submit our lives to the Lordship of Christ, the Holy Spirit indwells us. Think of it! God in us! That one thought alone should provoke holy awe in us. Almighty God, the Creator of the universe, dwells within. If we could only keep that thought in our mind at all times, how would it affect our lives?
His Word :
We are called to be ambassadors for Christ (2 Corinthians 5:20). Christ is the Word (John 1:1), and we are earthen vessels filled with the treasure of who He is (2 Corinthians 4:7). The reason that none of Samuel's words fell to the ground is because he spoke God's Word.
Application :
God's Word is a treasure not to be taken lightly. It is powerful enough to create the universe. That power is released when we speak God's Word, and His Word will accomplish His Divine Will.
"As the rain and the snow
come down from heaven,
and do not return to it
without watering the earth
and making it bud and flourish,
so that it yields seed for the sower and bread for the eater,
so is My word that goes out from My mouth:
It will not return to Me empty,
but will accomplish what I desire
and achieve the purpose for which I sent it." ~Isaiah 55:10-11 (NIV)
Father, we praise You for who You are: our Almighty and Holy God. Thank You, LORD, for the power of Your Word. How awesome that the world and all that is in it was created by the power of Your spoken Word. Help us to always keep in mind that Your Spirit dwells within us, and as Your people we have a great treasure to share with the world. Give us a holy boldness to proclaim Your Word, knowing that it will accomplish Your plan and purpose. In Jesus' name we pray, Amen.
March 18, 2013
A Pattern Repeated Throughout History
My Bible reading plan currently has me in the book of Judges. It only took a few chapters into the book to see a scary pattern developing in the lives of the young nation of Israel. But not only is that pattern seen in the history of Israel, it's seen in the history of the world. Here is the basic pattern:
SIN ====> JUDGEMENT ====> REPENTANCE====> DELIVERANCE
SIN
Then the sons of Israel did evil in the sight of the Lord and served the Baals, and they forsook the Lord, the God of their fathers, who had brought them out of the land of Egypt, and followed other gods from among the gods of the peoples who were around them, and bowed themselves down to them; thus they provoked the Lord to anger. So they forsook the Lord and served Baal and the Ashtaroth. ~Judges 2:11-13 (NASB)
God's very first command to the Hebrew people was that of having no other gods before Him (Exodus 20:3), but this is exactly what they did by forsaking God and serving Baal and the Ashtaroth. As the Hebrew people became agricultural, they were tempted to serve these gods in addition to the LORD, to make sure that they would have fertile crops.
Before we bash them too hard, we need to take a quick look in the mirror. We do the same thing today! We want that fire insurance that salvation provides, but we want it on our own terms. The god of self is prevalent in our society.
JUDGEMENT
The anger of the Lord burned against Israel, and He gave them into the hands of plunderers who plundered them; and He sold them into the hands of their enemies around them, so that they could no longer stand before their enemies. Wherever they went, the hand of the Lord was against them for evil, as the Lord had spoken and as the Lord had sworn to them, so that they were severely distressed. ~Judges 2:14-15 (NASB)
If there's any position we DON'T want to be in, it's where the LORD is against us! Notice that He removed their hedge of protection so that they could no longer stand before their enemies. Their response was understandably one of distress!
REPENTANCE
One good thing comes from being in opposition to God and the resulting distress, and that is repentance. In my estimation, the word "repent" has been handed a bad reputation. Repenting is good; it's spiritually healthy! It's simply turning away from destructive behavior and back to the LORD.
DELIVERANCE
Then the Lord raised up judges who delivered them from the hands of those who plundered them. ~Judges 2:16 (NASB)
I've heard some people question where the God of grace we find in the New Testament is located in the Old Testament. Here's the answer. God didn't owe these people anything. They were the ones who broke the covenant. They were the ones who chased after other gods who really weren't gods at all! He could've easily wiped them off the planet and started all over. But He didn't. He gave them another chance. Unfortunately, if you continue to read in the book of Judges, you see that the Israelites soon repeated the scary pattern.
What's even scarier is what started it all. Let's go back to the beginning of the above story.
All that generation also were gathered to their fathers; and there arose another generation after them who did not know the Lord, nor yet the work which He had done for Israel. ~Judges 2:10 (NASB)
APPLICATION
Folks, we are losing a lot of the newest generation for a plethora of reasons, including disparity between what we say we believe and our actions, a lack of love among the family of God, and just plain old apathy and complacency.
The judgment we are seeing upon our country is our fault, not the fault of politicians and businessmen. If we truly want to see change in our country, we MUST turn back to God and do our best to influence the younger generations for God's Kingdom. Only then will we see the deliverance of God.
Dear Jesus, How we fall down and prostrate ourselves in humility, confessing that we've been enticed and drawn away by foreign "gods" that really aren't gods at all. We're guilty of putting ourselves and our agendas before You. Forgive us, Lord, and help us to do better. We fervently intercede on behalf of the younger generations--our sons and daughters--that they would see You for who You truly are, and not the weak, wimpy feel-good God we've portrayed to them. Lord, we also pray for those of the younger generations who have stayed true to You. Thank You for them. Help them to influence their generation for Your Kingdom. Thank You for Your unmerited love and grace. Amen.
SIN ====> JUDGEMENT ====> REPENTANCE====> DELIVERANCE
SIN
Then the sons of Israel did evil in the sight of the Lord and served the Baals, and they forsook the Lord, the God of their fathers, who had brought them out of the land of Egypt, and followed other gods from among the gods of the peoples who were around them, and bowed themselves down to them; thus they provoked the Lord to anger. So they forsook the Lord and served Baal and the Ashtaroth. ~Judges 2:11-13 (NASB)
God's very first command to the Hebrew people was that of having no other gods before Him (Exodus 20:3), but this is exactly what they did by forsaking God and serving Baal and the Ashtaroth. As the Hebrew people became agricultural, they were tempted to serve these gods in addition to the LORD, to make sure that they would have fertile crops.
Before we bash them too hard, we need to take a quick look in the mirror. We do the same thing today! We want that fire insurance that salvation provides, but we want it on our own terms. The god of self is prevalent in our society.
JUDGEMENT
The anger of the Lord burned against Israel, and He gave them into the hands of plunderers who plundered them; and He sold them into the hands of their enemies around them, so that they could no longer stand before their enemies. Wherever they went, the hand of the Lord was against them for evil, as the Lord had spoken and as the Lord had sworn to them, so that they were severely distressed. ~Judges 2:14-15 (NASB)
If there's any position we DON'T want to be in, it's where the LORD is against us! Notice that He removed their hedge of protection so that they could no longer stand before their enemies. Their response was understandably one of distress!
REPENTANCE
One good thing comes from being in opposition to God and the resulting distress, and that is repentance. In my estimation, the word "repent" has been handed a bad reputation. Repenting is good; it's spiritually healthy! It's simply turning away from destructive behavior and back to the LORD.
DELIVERANCE
Then the Lord raised up judges who delivered them from the hands of those who plundered them. ~Judges 2:16 (NASB)
I've heard some people question where the God of grace we find in the New Testament is located in the Old Testament. Here's the answer. God didn't owe these people anything. They were the ones who broke the covenant. They were the ones who chased after other gods who really weren't gods at all! He could've easily wiped them off the planet and started all over. But He didn't. He gave them another chance. Unfortunately, if you continue to read in the book of Judges, you see that the Israelites soon repeated the scary pattern.
What's even scarier is what started it all. Let's go back to the beginning of the above story.
All that generation also were gathered to their fathers; and there arose another generation after them who did not know the Lord, nor yet the work which He had done for Israel. ~Judges 2:10 (NASB)
APPLICATION
Folks, we are losing a lot of the newest generation for a plethora of reasons, including disparity between what we say we believe and our actions, a lack of love among the family of God, and just plain old apathy and complacency.
The judgment we are seeing upon our country is our fault, not the fault of politicians and businessmen. If we truly want to see change in our country, we MUST turn back to God and do our best to influence the younger generations for God's Kingdom. Only then will we see the deliverance of God.
Dear Jesus, How we fall down and prostrate ourselves in humility, confessing that we've been enticed and drawn away by foreign "gods" that really aren't gods at all. We're guilty of putting ourselves and our agendas before You. Forgive us, Lord, and help us to do better. We fervently intercede on behalf of the younger generations--our sons and daughters--that they would see You for who You truly are, and not the weak, wimpy feel-good God we've portrayed to them. Lord, we also pray for those of the younger generations who have stayed true to You. Thank You for them. Help them to influence their generation for Your Kingdom. Thank You for Your unmerited love and grace. Amen.
A Scary Pattern Repeated Throughout History
My Bible reading plan currently has me in the book of Judges. It only took a few chapters into the book to see a scary pattern developing in the lives of the young nation of Israel. But not only is that pattern seen in the history of Israel, it's seen in the history of the world. Here is the basic pattern:
SIN ====> JUDGEMENT ====> REPENTANCE====> DELIVERANCE
SIN
Then the sons of Israel did evil in the sight of the Lord and served the Baals, and they forsook the Lord, the God of their fathers, who had brought them out of the land of Egypt, and followed other gods from among the gods of the peoples who were around them, and bowed themselves down to them; thus they provoked the Lord to anger. So they forsook the Lord and served Baal and the Ashtaroth. ~Judges 2:11-13 (NASB)
God's very first command to the Hebrew people was that of having no other gods before Him (Exodus 20:3), but this is exactly what they did by forsaking God and serving Baal and the Ashtaroth. As the Hebrew people became agricultural, they were tempted to serve these gods in addition to the LORD, to make sure that they would have fertile crops.
Before we bash them too hard, we need to take a quick look in the mirror. We do the same thing today! We want that fire insurance that salvation provides, but we want it on our own terms. The god of self is prevalent in our society.
JUDGEMENT
The anger of the Lord burned against Israel, and He gave them into the hands of plunderers who plundered them; and He sold them into the hands of their enemies around them, so that they could no longer stand before their enemies. Wherever they went, the hand of the Lord was against them for evil, as the Lord had spoken and as the Lord had sworn to them, so that they were severely distressed. ~Judges 2:14-15 (NASB)
If there's any position we DON'T want to be in, it's where the LORD is against us! Notice that He removed their hedge of protection so that they could no longer stand before their enemies. Their response was understandably one of distress!
REPENTANCE
One good thing comes from being in opposition to God and the resulting distress, and that is repentance. In my estimation, the word "repent" has been handed a bad reputation. Repenting is good; it's spiritually healthy! It's simply turning away from destructive behavior and back to the LORD.
DELIVERANCE
Then the Lord raised up judges who delivered them from the hands of those who plundered them. ~Judges 2:16 (NASB)
I've heard some people question where the God of grace we find in the New Testament is located in the Old Testament. Here's the answer. God didn't owe these people anything. They were the ones who broke the covenant. They were the ones who chased after other gods who really weren't gods at all! He could've easily wiped them off the planet and started all over. But He didn't. He gave them another chance. Unfortunately, if you continue to read in the book of Judges, you see that the Israelites soon repeated the scary pattern.
What's even scarier is what started it all. Let's go back to the beginning of the above story.
All that generation also were gathered to their fathers; and there arose another generation after them who did not know the Lord, nor yet the work which He had done for Israel. ~Judges 2:10 (NASB)
APPLICATION
Folks, we are losing a lot of the newest generation for a plethora of reasons, including disparity between what we say we believe and our actions, a lack of love among the family of God, and just plain old apathy and complacency.
The judgment we are seeing upon our country is our fault, not the fault of politicians and businessmen. If we truly want to see change in our country, we MUST turn back to God and do our best to influence the younger generations for God's Kingdom. Only then will we see the deliverance of God.
Dear Jesus, How we fall down and prostrate ourselves in humility, confessing that we've been enticed and drawn away by foreign "gods" that really aren't gods at all. We're guilty of putting ourselves and our agendas before You. Forgive us, Lord, and help us to do better. We fervently intercede on behalf of the younger generations--our sons and daughters--that they would see You for who You truly are, and not the weak, wimpy feel-good God we've portrayed to them. Lord, we also pray for those of the younger generations who have stayed true to You. Thank You for them. Help them to influence their generation for Your Kingdom. Thank You for Your unmerited love and grace. Amen.
SIN ====> JUDGEMENT ====> REPENTANCE====> DELIVERANCE
SIN
Then the sons of Israel did evil in the sight of the Lord and served the Baals, and they forsook the Lord, the God of their fathers, who had brought them out of the land of Egypt, and followed other gods from among the gods of the peoples who were around them, and bowed themselves down to them; thus they provoked the Lord to anger. So they forsook the Lord and served Baal and the Ashtaroth. ~Judges 2:11-13 (NASB)
God's very first command to the Hebrew people was that of having no other gods before Him (Exodus 20:3), but this is exactly what they did by forsaking God and serving Baal and the Ashtaroth. As the Hebrew people became agricultural, they were tempted to serve these gods in addition to the LORD, to make sure that they would have fertile crops.
Before we bash them too hard, we need to take a quick look in the mirror. We do the same thing today! We want that fire insurance that salvation provides, but we want it on our own terms. The god of self is prevalent in our society.
JUDGEMENT
The anger of the Lord burned against Israel, and He gave them into the hands of plunderers who plundered them; and He sold them into the hands of their enemies around them, so that they could no longer stand before their enemies. Wherever they went, the hand of the Lord was against them for evil, as the Lord had spoken and as the Lord had sworn to them, so that they were severely distressed. ~Judges 2:14-15 (NASB)
If there's any position we DON'T want to be in, it's where the LORD is against us! Notice that He removed their hedge of protection so that they could no longer stand before their enemies. Their response was understandably one of distress!
REPENTANCE
One good thing comes from being in opposition to God and the resulting distress, and that is repentance. In my estimation, the word "repent" has been handed a bad reputation. Repenting is good; it's spiritually healthy! It's simply turning away from destructive behavior and back to the LORD.
DELIVERANCE
Then the Lord raised up judges who delivered them from the hands of those who plundered them. ~Judges 2:16 (NASB)
I've heard some people question where the God of grace we find in the New Testament is located in the Old Testament. Here's the answer. God didn't owe these people anything. They were the ones who broke the covenant. They were the ones who chased after other gods who really weren't gods at all! He could've easily wiped them off the planet and started all over. But He didn't. He gave them another chance. Unfortunately, if you continue to read in the book of Judges, you see that the Israelites soon repeated the scary pattern.
What's even scarier is what started it all. Let's go back to the beginning of the above story.
All that generation also were gathered to their fathers; and there arose another generation after them who did not know the Lord, nor yet the work which He had done for Israel. ~Judges 2:10 (NASB)
APPLICATION
Folks, we are losing a lot of the newest generation for a plethora of reasons, including disparity between what we say we believe and our actions, a lack of love among the family of God, and just plain old apathy and complacency.
The judgment we are seeing upon our country is our fault, not the fault of politicians and businessmen. If we truly want to see change in our country, we MUST turn back to God and do our best to influence the younger generations for God's Kingdom. Only then will we see the deliverance of God.
Dear Jesus, How we fall down and prostrate ourselves in humility, confessing that we've been enticed and drawn away by foreign "gods" that really aren't gods at all. We're guilty of putting ourselves and our agendas before You. Forgive us, Lord, and help us to do better. We fervently intercede on behalf of the younger generations--our sons and daughters--that they would see You for who You truly are, and not the weak, wimpy feel-good God we've portrayed to them. Lord, we also pray for those of the younger generations who have stayed true to You. Thank You for them. Help them to influence their generation for Your Kingdom. Thank You for Your unmerited love and grace. Amen.
March 17, 2013
Understanding the Enemy
One of the most important tactics of any type of warfare is understanding the enemy and how he operates. And I'm sure it goes without saying, but life is a battle. Not only is it a battle, but it is a battle of epic and supernatural proportions (Ephesians 6:12).
In God's Word the very first encounter with Satan is recorded at the beginning of time in Genesis 3.
Now the serpent was more crafty than any beast of the field which the Lord God had made. And he said to the woman, “Indeed, has God said, ‘You shall not eat from any tree of the garden’?” The woman said to the serpent, “From the fruit of the trees of the garden we may eat; but from the fruit of the tree which is in the middle of the garden, God has said, ‘You shall not eat from it or touch it, or you will die.’” The serpent said to the woman, “You surely will not die! For God knows that in the day you eat from it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil.” When the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was a delight to the eyes, and that the tree was desirable to make one wise, she took from its fruit and ate; and she gave also to her husband with her, and he ate. Then the eyes of both of them were opened, and they knew that they were naked; and they sewed fig leaves together and made themselves loin coverings. ~Genesis 3:1-7 (NASB)
The Enemy Is Often in Disguise
...even Satan disguises himself as an angel of light. ~2 Corinthians 11:14 (NASB)
Not many willingly give in to Satan, but when he disguises himself, it's often not easy to recognize him. The devil comes wrapped in beautiful and attractive packaging and seems innocent and non-dangerous. Not only is he often incognito, but even masquerades as an angel of light. No wonder Eve didn't run the other way.
The Enemy Spreads Doubt
With four little words, "Did God really say...?," Satan plants a seed of doubt in Eve's mind. His tactics haven't changed much over the course of time. He still tries to make us question our beliefs, our God, and God's commands. In Eve's temptation, the enemy questioned God's goodness, one of his favored modes of attack against believers.
The Enemy Deals in Human Desires
For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh and the lust of the eyes and the boastful pride of life, is not from the Father, but is from the world. ~1 John 2:16 (NASB)
Three problems inherent in humans are the desires of the flesh, the desires of the eyes, and pride. These three things get us in a heap of trouble faster than anything else. So it's no wonder that Satan attacks us here. If it's any comfort, he used this tactic on Jesus, too, which proves that although Jesus was fully God, He was also fully man (Matthew 4:1-11). This is exactly the scheme he used with Eve as well, tempting her with eating the fruit (lust of the flesh; compare Matthew 4:3), opened eyes (lust of the eyes; compare Matthew 4:6), and the ability to be like God (pride of life; compare Matthew 4:8-9). (A note on this last part of the equation: This pride and trying to be like God is exactly why Satan was booted out of heaven in the first place. See Isaiah 14 and Ezekiel 28 to learn more about Satan's fall.) Look at Genesis 3:6. There they are again: good for food (lust of the flesh), pleasing to the eye (lust of the eyes), and desirable for gaining wisdom (pride of life).
The Enemy Contradicts God's Commands
The serpent said to the woman, “You surely will not die! For God
knows that in the day you eat from it your eyes will be opened, and you
will be like God, knowing good and evil.” ~Genesis 3:4 (NASB)
Satan is an expert at contradicting and misusing God's Word! Once again, he also used this tactic on Jesus (Matthew 4:1-11), but Jesus counteracted the attack each time with truth. If he tempted Jesus in this way, do you think he won't tempt us? That is why it is so crucial to read and study God's Word on a daily basis and commit it to memory. There's a reason the Bible is listed in our spiritual weapons (Ephesians 6:17)! And another thing--don't just assume that someone who looks and talks like the real deal is the real deal. Satan is going to battle Christians on their home turf, and this includes the church. Be discerning (1 John 4:1; 2 Corinthians 11:13-15; Colossians 2:8; Matthew 10:16).
The Enemy Substitutes His Lie
You are of your father the devil, and you want to do the desires of your father. He was a murderer from the beginning, and does not stand in the truth because there is no truth in him. Whenever he speaks a lie, he speaks from his own nature, for he is a liar and the father of lies. ~John 8:44 (NASB)
It only takes a slight twist of the truth to make a lie. In fact, these half-truths sound so believable that it's easy to fall for them. In Satan's temptation of Jesus, he tried to throw Jesus off track. He used the same technique with Eve, and he uses it with us. Watch out for the enemy who stalks us like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour (1 Peter 5:8).
Hopefully, this post on the enemy's tactics will make us more aware of the battle we face on a daily basis. Once we recognize how he works, we'll be more mindful to hesitate before falling into his trap.
Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of His might. Put on the full armor of God, so that you will be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil. ~Ephesians 6:10-11 (NASB)
Heavenly Father, Thank You for Your Word which gives us what we need to understand the enemy and how to counteract his attack. Give us strength to battle him wisely. Help us to appropriate the weapons You've provided on a daily basis. Especially draw us into Your Word so that we might better know the Truth. Keep us from temptation. Amen.
In God's Word the very first encounter with Satan is recorded at the beginning of time in Genesis 3.
Now the serpent was more crafty than any beast of the field which the Lord God had made. And he said to the woman, “Indeed, has God said, ‘You shall not eat from any tree of the garden’?” The woman said to the serpent, “From the fruit of the trees of the garden we may eat; but from the fruit of the tree which is in the middle of the garden, God has said, ‘You shall not eat from it or touch it, or you will die.’” The serpent said to the woman, “You surely will not die! For God knows that in the day you eat from it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil.” When the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was a delight to the eyes, and that the tree was desirable to make one wise, she took from its fruit and ate; and she gave also to her husband with her, and he ate. Then the eyes of both of them were opened, and they knew that they were naked; and they sewed fig leaves together and made themselves loin coverings. ~Genesis 3:1-7 (NASB)
The Enemy Is Often in Disguise
...even Satan disguises himself as an angel of light. ~2 Corinthians 11:14 (NASB)
Not many willingly give in to Satan, but when he disguises himself, it's often not easy to recognize him. The devil comes wrapped in beautiful and attractive packaging and seems innocent and non-dangerous. Not only is he often incognito, but even masquerades as an angel of light. No wonder Eve didn't run the other way.
The Enemy Spreads Doubt
With four little words, "Did God really say...?," Satan plants a seed of doubt in Eve's mind. His tactics haven't changed much over the course of time. He still tries to make us question our beliefs, our God, and God's commands. In Eve's temptation, the enemy questioned God's goodness, one of his favored modes of attack against believers.
The Enemy Deals in Human Desires
For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh and the lust of the eyes and the boastful pride of life, is not from the Father, but is from the world. ~1 John 2:16 (NASB)
Three problems inherent in humans are the desires of the flesh, the desires of the eyes, and pride. These three things get us in a heap of trouble faster than anything else. So it's no wonder that Satan attacks us here. If it's any comfort, he used this tactic on Jesus, too, which proves that although Jesus was fully God, He was also fully man (Matthew 4:1-11). This is exactly the scheme he used with Eve as well, tempting her with eating the fruit (lust of the flesh; compare Matthew 4:3), opened eyes (lust of the eyes; compare Matthew 4:6), and the ability to be like God (pride of life; compare Matthew 4:8-9). (A note on this last part of the equation: This pride and trying to be like God is exactly why Satan was booted out of heaven in the first place. See Isaiah 14 and Ezekiel 28 to learn more about Satan's fall.) Look at Genesis 3:6. There they are again: good for food (lust of the flesh), pleasing to the eye (lust of the eyes), and desirable for gaining wisdom (pride of life).
The Enemy Contradicts God's Commands
The serpent said to the woman, “You surely will not die! For God
knows that in the day you eat from it your eyes will be opened, and you
will be like God, knowing good and evil.” ~Genesis 3:4 (NASB)
Satan is an expert at contradicting and misusing God's Word! Once again, he also used this tactic on Jesus (Matthew 4:1-11), but Jesus counteracted the attack each time with truth. If he tempted Jesus in this way, do you think he won't tempt us? That is why it is so crucial to read and study God's Word on a daily basis and commit it to memory. There's a reason the Bible is listed in our spiritual weapons (Ephesians 6:17)! And another thing--don't just assume that someone who looks and talks like the real deal is the real deal. Satan is going to battle Christians on their home turf, and this includes the church. Be discerning (1 John 4:1; 2 Corinthians 11:13-15; Colossians 2:8; Matthew 10:16).
The Enemy Substitutes His Lie
You are of your father the devil, and you want to do the desires of your father. He was a murderer from the beginning, and does not stand in the truth because there is no truth in him. Whenever he speaks a lie, he speaks from his own nature, for he is a liar and the father of lies. ~John 8:44 (NASB)
It only takes a slight twist of the truth to make a lie. In fact, these half-truths sound so believable that it's easy to fall for them. In Satan's temptation of Jesus, he tried to throw Jesus off track. He used the same technique with Eve, and he uses it with us. Watch out for the enemy who stalks us like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour (1 Peter 5:8).
Hopefully, this post on the enemy's tactics will make us more aware of the battle we face on a daily basis. Once we recognize how he works, we'll be more mindful to hesitate before falling into his trap.
Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of His might. Put on the full armor of God, so that you will be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil. ~Ephesians 6:10-11 (NASB)
Heavenly Father, Thank You for Your Word which gives us what we need to understand the enemy and how to counteract his attack. Give us strength to battle him wisely. Help us to appropriate the weapons You've provided on a daily basis. Especially draw us into Your Word so that we might better know the Truth. Keep us from temptation. Amen.
March 16, 2013
Covenant Choice
Throughout the Bible, God is shown to be a covenant God. A covenant is a binding agreement between two parties and contains both privileges and responsibilities. It is very much a choice--and one that is crucial.
Now, therefore, fear the Lord and serve Him in sincerity and truth; and put away the gods which your fathers served beyond the River and in Egypt, and serve the Lord. If it is disagreeable in your sight to serve the Lord, choose for yourselves today whom you will serve: whether the gods which your fathers served which were beyond the River, or the gods of the Amorites in whose land you are living; but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord. ~Joshua 24:14-15 (NASB)
Faithfulness
One of our responsibilities to our covenant with God is faithfulness to Him. As omnipotent, all-knowing God, the Lord knows our motives for serving. So we must be very careful to examine our hearts. Are we serving Him out of love and gratitude, or is our profession of faith based on fire insurance or self-serving motives. We must be sincere and true, faithful to Him above all else.
Exclusivity
God's covenant requires giving Him exclusive rights to us. He won't abide us serving other Gods. Our commitment must be whole-hearted. It's an all-or-nothing kind of deal. We can't merely give Him access to parts of our life and expect to be a part of His covenant people. He wants all of us. Jesus said it this way: Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind.
Our Choice
Our God isn't a master puppeteer who forces us to love and serve Him. He leaves the choice up to us. We get to decide whether or not we want to be a part of this covenant community. But we must remember that we all ultimately serve someone. Will we serve God, ourselves, a cause? Even in not choosing, we choose. Life is short, and I don't want to reach the end of mine only to find I had my ladder leaning against the wrong wall.
We can choose to serve little-g "gods,"
or the One True God who created us, loves us and has a purpose for our
lives. While serving Him isn't an easy path, it's a blessed path and one
that leads to abundant and eternal life. (If you'd
like to know more about serving the Lord and finding abundant life,
please click the "LIFE" button in the sidebar of this blog or contact me
at catbry1 [at] yahoo [dot] com.)
Father God, I
thank You for Your perfect plan and for the choice You give each of
us--the choice to serve You or something/someone else. I specifically
pray for each person reading this post, Lord. First, for those who are
struggling with the decision to follow You, that You would grant them
the courage and peace they need. Secondly, I pray for those that have
committed to serve You, but are struggling with staying on the path.
Give them perseverance, Lord, to daily choose to follow You. Provide all
of us with what we need to serve You wholeheartedly. Thank You for
loving us. In Jesus' powerful name we pray, Amen.
CatBryant.com ~ Journey Blog
FREE digital copy of A PATH LESS TRAVELED (2nd stand-alone book in the Miller's Creek novels and an Amazon Kindle Best-Seller) when you subscribe to Cathy's FROM MY FRONT PORCH newsletter. On my blog
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