Faith

Thought for Today - September 30
Faith
By: Robert A. Searles

     Faith, which is a gift from God, is the ability to believe the seemingly impossible things which God has promised and is able to do for us.  Our faith is not strong enough to accomplish much for God.  Faith comes by praying, fasting, and hearing the word of God.

     God grants the power and faith to expect great things  from him and do great things for his glory when we sincerely draw near unto him, and seek his face and fellowship.

     If we could have genuine faith, even as small as a grain of mustard seed, and if  we are in partnership with God, nothing shall be impossible to us.

     “And when they were come to the multitude, there came to him a certain man, kneeling down to him, saying, Lord, have mercy on my son, for he is  lunatic, and sore vexed: for ofttimes he falleth into the fire, and oft into the water.  And I brought him to thy disciples, and they could not cure him.  Then Jesus answered and said, O faithless and perverse generation, how long shall I be with you?  How long shall I suffer you?  Bring him hither to me.  And Jesus rebuked the devil; and he departed out of him; and the child was cured from that very hour.  Then came the disciples to Jesus apart, and said, why could not we cast him out? And Jesus said unto them, because of your unbelief: for verily I say unto you, if ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain, remove hence to yonder place; and it shall remove, and nothing shall be impossible unto you.  Howbeit this kind goeth not out but by prayer and fasting.” Matthew 17: 14-21.

Here to Serve Him

Thought For Today - September 28
Here To Serve Him
By: Robert A. Searles

     “For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.” Ephesians 2: 10.

     When God created us his purpose was that we should be instruments in his hands which he could use to fulfill  his purpose, and  bring glory to himself.  When we yield ourselves to him to do his bidding, we find great satisfaction, and our joy and happiness is fulfilled.  Though we are all sinners and have come short of the glory of God, God has provided a way by which we can be forgiven and reconciled to him by receiving Jesus Christ as our sin bearer and Savior.

     The word of God teaches us that every saved, born again child of God is given at least one spiritual gift whereby we can minister as ministering servants so that we might show forth the unsearchable riches of Christ, and to make all men see the glory of God.  We ought to ask God to reveal to us the one or more gifts which he has assigned to us, and ask God to help us to develop it so that we might bear fruit for him.

     It was always God's will that the gentiles should be fellow heirs, and of the same body, and partake of his  promise in Christ by the gospel.  Paul says: “Whereof I was made a minister, according to the gift of the grace of God given unto me by the effectual working of his power.  Unto me who am less than the least of all saints, is this grace given, that I should preach  among the gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ and to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ: to the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places  might be known by the  the church the manifold wisdom of God according to the eternal purpose which he purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord: in whom we have boldness and access with confidence by faith of  him.  Wherefore I desire that ye faint not at my tribulation for you which is your glory.” Ephesians 3: 7-13

     It is God's will that those around us in the world hear the gospel so that they too might see and know of the unsearchable riches of Christ.  We are responsible to God to use the gifts he has given us to make this a reality.  With the gift, God gives  the boldness and confidence to utilize it for his glory.  If we will yield ourselves to him - God is able to do with us,-- “exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us.” Ephesians 3: 20.

     Someone said to D. L. Moody: “It has not yet been seen what God could do with a man or woman who was totally yielded to him.”  Moody is reported to have said. “By God's grace, I want to be that man.” Moody went ahead and won two continents to Christ.

     The power that worketh in us is the person of the Holy Spirit, and when one is willing to yield  himself to the guidance and leadership of the Holy Spirit, he can be filled with all the fullness of God.

 “That he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his spirit in the inner man: That Christ may dwell in your heart by faith; that ye being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadeth, and length, and depth, and height, and to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge that ye might be filled with all the fullness of God.  Now unto him that is able to  do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that   worketh in us, unto him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus  throughout all ages, world without end. Amen.” Ephesians 3: 16-21

Almost Persuaded

Thought For Today - September 27
Almost Persuaded
By: Robert A. Searles

     If perchance someone may be reading these lines who is not a Christian, and does not know what it means to be saved, and you do not have the joy of fellowship with our wonderful Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, you ought to stop right where you are and consider the alternatives.

     It is possible to have a pearl of great price slip through your fingers and be lost to you forever, and it is possible to be so close to much treasure, and yet to lose or neglect it all.

     Perhaps a wife or husband; a mother or father; or a son or a daughter has  been praying for your salvation.  Perhaps they have very lovingly told you of Jesus and his power to save.  Perhaps they have very patiently and kindly explained to you God's simple plan of salvation.  It may be that at times the Holy Spirit has tugged at your heart and you have been almost persuaded, almost but not yet, another time, when I am older, after I have exhausted all the pleasures of a worldly lifestyle; almost persuaded to believe and trust Jesus, almost, but still  lost.

     You, no doubt have heard the gospel preached at church, or on the radio, or television, or from literature such as you are now reading, and yet you continue to neglect your salvation.

My dear friend or relative, whoever you  may be, millions throughout the ages have tried and tested the Word of God and have found it to be sure and steadfast and trustworthy.  The Word of God teaches us that it is appointed unto man once to die and after this the judgment.  All must stand before God and give an account for what he did with God's greatest gift to mankind, his only begotten son, the Lord Jesus Christ: That whosoever should believe on him and call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.

     My friend, the only alternative to  being saved is to be lost, and to be lost does not mean cessation of existence or annihilation, but it means to spend eternity in an eternal hell, and separated from God forever.

     “How shall we escape, if we neglect so  great salvation; which at the first began to be spoken by the Lord and was confirmed unto us by them that heard him; God also bearing them witness, both with signs and wonders, and with divers miracles and gifts of the Holy Ghost, according to his own will”? Hebrews 2: 3,4.

     If you have neglected your salvation, won't you reconsider before it is eternally to late

Keep on Sowing

 Thought For Today - September 26
Keep On Sowing
By: Robert A. Searles

      When we go forth to sow the seed of the word of God, we must expect that not every single seed that we sow will take root and grow and bring forth fruit for the glory of God. Just as when the farmer sows seeds of grain, some seed will fall by the wayside and be lost, or the birds will devour them.  Some seeds fall into rocky places where there is not much to nurture them, and they are left for the sun to wither them away.  Some seeds fall among thorns which choke them up and hinder their growth.

     When the word of God falls upon an unsaved person's ears for the first time, if God has not prepared that person's heart to receive the seed of the word, even as the farmer has prepared the soil to receive the grain seed, then the seed falls upon dry ground, and Satan is ever around and ready to snatch away the seed of the word of God.

     Some people have had their hearts stirred by God and are ready to receive God's truth, and for a little while the seeds spring forth, but before long the heart is dried up and by trials and tribulations, and no fruit is produced.  Then there is the seed that has fallen among thorns.  The thorns represent those who at one time, with joy and gladness, have received the word of God, and for a time it sprang up in them to produce healthy plants for the Lord and for a season bore fruit; but because of associations with the wrong kinds of people, or associations with worldly things, the cares and riches of the world, have choked them and now they no longer grow and bear fruit.

     But there is  always that small percentage of seed which is sown and falls into good ground.  The good ground is the person who hears the word and understands it, and in him the word grows and bears fruit.

     We who are sowers of the word of God must not become discouraged  when some of our seed falls by the wayside, or upon dry ground, or  among thorns, because some will always fall upon good ground.  That which falls upon good ground will bring forth abundantly for the Lord.

     “And he spake many things unto them in parables, saying, behold, a sower went forth to sow; and when he sowed, some seeds fell by the way side,  and the fowls came and devoured them up:  Some fell upon stony places, where they had not much earth: and forthwith they  sprung up, because they had no deepness of earth, and when the sun was up, they were scorched, and because they had no root, they withered away.  And some fell among thorns; and the thorns sprung up and choked them, but other fell unto good ground, and brought forth fruit, some an   hundred fold, some sixty fold, some thirty fold.  Who hath ears to hear, let him hear.” Matthew 13: 3-9.

     “Hear ye therefore the  parable of the sower.  When any one heareth the word of the kingdom and understandeth it not, then cometh the wicked one, and catcheth away that which was sown in his heart.  This is he which received seed by the wayside. But he that received the seed into stony places, the same is he that heareth the  word, and anon with joy receiveth it, yet hath he no root  in himself, but dureth for a while: for when tribulations or persecutions arise then because of the word, by  and by he  is offended.  He also that received  seed  among the thorns is he that heareth the word, and the cares of this world and the deceitfulness of riches, choke the word,  and he becometh unfruitful.  But he that received  seed unto good ground is he that heareth the word, and understandeth it, which also beareth fruit ,and bringeth forth some an  hundred fold, some sixty, some thirty.” Matthew 13: 18-23.

May we who are laborers for the Lord and sowers of the seed of his word, not become discouraged and quit when we see no immediate and visible   results of our labor.  Some of the seeds we sow will find good ground and take root and grow and bring forth a bountiful harvest for our Lord.

Facing Our Enemies

Thought for Today - September 25
Facing Our Enemies
By: Robert A. Searles

     When we answer the call to be a volunteer in the service of the Lord, we must be prepared to face enemies that we have never had to face before.  We will find ourselves in a spiritual combat zone.  Giants of adversity will constantly be rising up before us and we will seem to be as sheep among wolves.  There are many wolves in the world who pretend to be fellow sheep and clothe themselves in sheep's clothing: of these we must be aware, and when we are among them we must be wise as servants, but harmless as doves.

     Ungodly, wicked men do not appreciate hearing about their wickedness and sin, and are not gospel friendly.  The preaching of the truth of God's word is an abomination to the wicked, therefore, we must be aware of men for they will deliver us up to judges, and councils and imprisonment.  Sometimes our most subtle enemies are members of our own household: wives against husbands; husbands against wives; children against parents; brother against brother.

     The world hated Christ and wanted him put away, and we can be sure that those of us who love him and are soldiers of the cross will be hated also.  We must remain strong and of good courage. We already know, according to the word of God, the final outcome of this war.  We are, and forever shall be, more than conquerors through Christ our Lord and captain of our salvation.

     Jesus said: “Behold, I send you forth as sheep in the midst of wolves: be ye  therefore wise as serpents and harmless as doves.  But beware of men: for  they will deliver you up to councils, and they will scourge you in their synagogues, and you shall be brought before governors and kings for my sake, for a testimony against them and the gentiles.  But when they deliver you up, take no thought how or what ye shall speak for it shall be given you in that same hour what ye shall speak.  For it is  not ye that speak but the spirit of your Father which speaketh in you. And the brother shall deliver up the brother to death, and the father the child: and the children shall rise up against their parents, and cause them to be put to death and ye shall be hated of all men for  my name's sake; but he that endureth to the end shall be saved.” M atthew 10: 16-22

We ARe What We Speak

Thought fr Today - September 24
We Are What We Speak
By: Robert A. Searles

     The words that proceed from our mouth echo the thoughts and intentions of our heart.  The heart,  or our innermost being, is the place where the spirit of God dwells, or the spirit of the devil and evil.  When the spirit of evil dominates the heart, no good  thing can come from our lips, but when the spirit of God dominates the heart, the words of our mouth brings forth good things.

     As a cesspool when open to the air gives foul odors, so the corrupt evil spirit of man sends forth a stench from the mouth which speaks blasphemy, and dishonors God and pollutes men.  Only after the heart of man is cleansed and purified, and purged of all evil, and the Holy Spirit enters in, by having received Christ as savior, will the words of our mouth have a sweet fragrance and be pleasing to God and edify man.

     Be careful little tongue what you speak, for God holds us accountable for every word that proceeds from our lips.

     “O generation of vipers, how can ye, being evil, speak good things?  For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh.  A good man out of the good treasure of the heart bringeth forth good things: and an evil man out of the evil treasure bringeth forth evil things.  But I say unto you, that every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment.  For by thy words thou shall be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned.” Matthew 12: 34-37.

Bring Your Burdens to the Lord

Thought for Today - September 22
Bring Your Burdens To The Lord
By: Robert A. Searles

    Jesus extended an invitation to all who are weary and heavy laden to come unto him, and he would give them rest.  He  came into the world to be our burden bearer and our sin bearer.

     "Surely he hath borne our griefs and carried our sorrows; yet we did esteem him stricken, smitten of God and afflicted." Isaiah 53: 4 (KJV)

 "That it might be fulfilled which was spoken of Esaias the prophet, saying,  himself took our infirmities, and bare our sickness." Matthew 8: 17 (KJV) Bible.

     What burdens lay heavy on our souls today? Is it the burden of  not confessed,  not forgiven  sin?  Is it the burden of  doubts and fears, or the burden of sickness and immanent death?  Do we grieve today over the loss of family, friends, or loved ones?  Are we perplexed, not knowing where  to turn or what road to take to solve our problems? Are we overly concerned about how we will meet  the challenges of the future?

     Jesus stands ready to make an exchanges of burdens.  If we are willing to lay all our cares and burdens  upon him, he will bear them for us, but we in exchanges must be willing to put his yoke upon our shoulders and be busy for him.  When we  are yoked together with him,he is bearing the heavier part of the load and our burdens become lighter.  We are told to take our burdens to the Lord and leave them there.  Burdens are lifted at Calvary.

     Jesus said: "Come unto me all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.  Take my yoke upon you and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart; and ye shall find rest unto   your souls.  For my yoke is easy, and , my burden light."Matthew 11: 28-30 (KJV) Bible.

Telehelp Publications Christian Literature Ministry
www.bibles-books-gifts.com
www.telehelppublications.blogspot.com

Do We Look For Another?

Thought For Today - September 21, 2022
Do We Look For Another?
By: Robert A. Searles

     John the baptist, preaching in the wilderness  and baptizing in the Jordan river, pointed to Jesus and proclaimed: “Behold the lamb of God who taketh away the sin of the world.”

  Now John, being in prison, has doubts within himself.  John sent two of his disciples to Jesus to ask him plainly- "Are you the one or should we look for another?"

     Today, we Christians, though we live by faith and believe the word of God, yet, in trying times it is  possible that doubts and fears may creep into our lives, especially if we are not as close to the Lord as we ought to be, and faithful in studying God's word and praying.  If we are completely honest, we must admit that down in our hearts we have all asked the question- Is it true?  Is the bible relevant for us today? Is Christ alive? Will he return as he said he would? Is there life after death?  Will God forgive our sins?

     John being in prison and about to be executed, probably was wondering in his heart - If Jesus was the one, the Lamb of God, the mighty God in human flesh, why would he allow him to be in prison  and be  executed?

     We ask very similar questions today -  Why am I going through such troubling times?  Why am I sick and afflicted with a terrible disease?  Why am I lonely?  Why am I going through financial difficulties?  Why am  I so afraid?

     Jesus's  reply to John's disciples was that he examine the evidence:  Consider all that came to Jesus for help..  The blind see, the lame walk, lepers, are  cleansed, the deaf hear, even the dead are raised.

    When Satan whispers in our ears and tries to get us to question as to whether or not Jesus is real and our faith genuine, then we need to stop and remember the goodness of God in our lives in times past.  Remember when the burden of guilt was lifted off our shoulders when we first believed.  Remember all of our childhood prayers that were answered.  Remember the times that we were afraid and when the Holy Spirit of God was there to calm our fears.  Remember when the Lord healed us when we were sick and came to our assistance when we were experiencing financial difficulties.  Let us carefully examine the scriptures and hear again the testimony of all the eye witnesses of Christ's resurrection and ascension into heaven.  Let us once again examine all the fulfilled prophecies of where and when Christ should be born, and the validity of all his miraculous works.

     “Now when John had heard in the prison the works of Christ, he sent two of his disciples, and said unto him, art thou he that should come, or do we look for another? Jesus answered and said  unto them, Go and show  John again those things which ye do hear and see: The blind receive their sight, and the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed, and the deaf hear, the dead are raised up,, and the poor have the gospel preached to them.  And blessed is he whosoever shall not be offended in me.” Matthew 11: 2-6.

Telehelp Publications Christian Literature Ministry

                               Psalm 26: 7   

Prince of Peace

Thought For Today - September 20
Prince Of Peace
By: Robert A. Searles

     Jesus Christ is known as the Prince of Peace.  His mission on earth was to make peace between God and man.  At his birth, the angels proclaimed: “peace on earth, good will toward men”, meaning that God was willing to sacrifice his son, so that mankind could receive pardon for their sins, and be at peace with God.

     Since Adam's and Eve's disobedience to God's word in the garden, mankind had been cast out of God's paradise, and all people became enemies of God, and there was war between men and God.

     Christ Jesus came into the world as the Prince of Peace to be a mediator between God and man, and to pay the price for man's sin, which is death or separation from God forever.  Individuals who will acknowledge him as God, and accept him as their sin sacrifice, will receive pardon and forgiveness, and be reconciled to God the Father and be at peace with him.

     Contrary to popular opinion, Christ did not come into the world to make peace among nations. In fact, he prophesied that there would be wars and rumors of wars before his final return and reign on earth.  He prophesied that because some would receive him as their Savior and some, would not, tension and strife would increase, and brother would be at war with brother, and the members of one's own household would be his foes.  Family ties are strong and blood is thicker than water, and we tend to defend our own, but Jesus taught that where God's word and truth are concerned, if we are truly servants of God, we must love God more than any others and take our stand for truth and combat falsehood and evil wherever it may be found, even among our loved ones and family members.

     There is a price to be paid for being a servant of the Lord, if we are to stand on his truth and righteousness.  If we are to find and enjoy life eternal, we must be willing to lose our life here for his cause.

     Jesus said:  “Think not that I am come to send peace on earth: I came not to send peace, but a sword.  For I am come to set a man at variance against his father, and the daughter against her mother, and the daughter in law against her mother in law.  And a man's foes shall be they of his own household.  He that loveth father or mother more than me is not worthy of me, and he that loveth son or daughter more thn me is not worthy of me nd he that taketh not his cross and followeth after me, is not worthy of me.  He that findeth his life shall lose it: and he that loseth his life for my sake shall find it.” Matthew 10: 34-39

What is His Name?

Thought for Today - September 19
What Is His Name?
 By: Robert A. Searles
 
     God  forbid that we should be afraid or ashamed to speak the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and proclaim him as our Savior.

     The name of Jesus Christ is forbidden to be mentioned in public ceremonies and other places today in our great country which was founded upon the principles of Jesus Christ and Christianity.  At sporting events, commencement exercises and other public events, those who are called upon to pray are warned not to mention his holy name lest they offend unbelievers and disturb their guilty conscience.  It is ok, we are told, to pray to a generic, unknown god: the man upstairs; the  divine power or influence, the god that will satisfy everyone's own individual convictions.

   Sad it is to observe that many professed Christians, who claim to be saved and redeemed by the precious blood of Christ, hesitate to speak his name among friends and acquaintances.  It seems that the only time public prayer is permissible nowadays in our great country is when our country is in great danger.  Then we are urged to cry out with a loud voice: “God  bless America”; but who is the God that we want to bless America?

    I, for one, will tell you who he is.  He is the  Lord Jesus Christ, the only begotten son of God. There is no other  name under heaven among men whereby we must be saved.  “This is the stone which was set at nought of you builders, which is the head  of the  corner.  Neither is there salvation in  any other for there is none other name under heaven given among men whereby we must be saved.” Acts 4:11-12.

     Jesus said: “Whosoever therefore shall confess me before men, him will I confess also before my Father which is in heaven Matthew 10: 32,33.

Telehelp Publications Christian Literature Ministry
www.bibles-books-gifts.com
www.telehelppublications.blogspot.com

The Righteous Shall Flourish Like The Palm Tree

Thought for Today - September 20. 2022
The Righteous Shall Flourish Like the Palm Tree
By: Robert A. Searles

"The righteous shall flourish like the palm tree; He shall grow like the cedars in Lebanon.  Those that be planted in  the house of the Lord shall flouish in the courts of our God.  They shall still bring forth fruit in old age; they shall be fat and flourishing to show that the Lord is upright; he is  my rock, and there is no unrightreousness in him." Psalm 92: 12-15.

Who is there that can qualify as to being righteous so as to "flourish as  the palm tree"? None of us, to be sure - "As it is written, there is none righteous, no. not one." Romans 3:10. "For all have sinned and come short of the glory of God." Romans 3:23.

There is only one truly righteous person in all the universe who can qualify to be blessed with this promise, and that is Christ. When we believe on him and confess our sin and receive him as our savior, then he, by his grace, is more than willing to forgive our sin and cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
Then God imputes his perfect righteousness to us, and sees us only as being clothed in the righteousness of his beloved son, The Lord, Christ Jesus.

Our righteousness consists only in the righteousness of Christ if we have accepted his offer of cleansing and  salvation, and only as we abide in him and he in us can we claim the promise that "we shall flourish like the palm tree and be planted in the courts of our God"

Telehelp Publications Christian Literature Ministry
                                    Psalm 26: 7

Ripe Unto Harvest

Thought For Today - September 16
Ripe Unto Harvest
By: Robert A. Searles

     “And Jesus went about all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing every sickness and disease among the people.  But when he saw the multitudes he was moved with compassion on them because they fainted, and were scattered abroad having no shepherd.”  Matthew 9: 35, 36.\

    Jesus sees the multitudes that are in the world today who are fainting and scattered abroad, and have no shepherd, and are spiritually starving for words of compassion and comfort.  When Jesus ascended into heaven, he gave his disciples the great commission to go into all the world and preach his gospel of salvation; and to heal the sick, to comfort the weary; and to bring hope of eternal life to the lost.  They, through the word of God, have passed this great commission down to us today.  All esus here on earth until he returns for his church.
who call themselves Christians have been given this great responsibility to continue the ministry of J
     One only has to look upon the world conditions today to see the multitudes in need of teaching and spiritual leadership.  The harvest is truly white and ready, but who will answer the call, who will go?  The call for laborers has been issued, the need is great, but few are those who will answer the call.

     Some one has wisely said: “None of us can do everything, but all of us can do something, and what we can do we ought to do” all for the glory of God to draw all men and women, boys and girls to a saving knowledge of Christ.

     “Then saith he unto his  disciples, the harvest truly is plenteous, but the laborers are few, pray ye therefore, the Lord of the harvest that he will send forth laborers into his harvest.” Matthew 9: 37,38.

If we who are saved and are sitting at the Lord.s table and enjoying the abundance of God's grace, we  ought to be willing to go out and labor in his fields and bring in the harvest.


Telehelp Publications Christian Literature Ministry

Once I Was Blind

Thought for Today - September 15
Once I Was Blind!
By Robert A. Searles

     Once I was blind, but now I  see.  From the moment of my physical birth until the moment of my rebirth as a child of God, my spiritual eyes and understanding were afflicted with blindness. This is true of all people whether or not they will acknowledge this truth.
  
  “But the natural man receiveth not the things of the spirit of God” for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.” I Corinthians 2: 14. 

Jesus said: “Except  a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.” John 3: 3.
  
  Unfortunately, there are certain religious leaders today occupying pulpits and  teaching and preaching some form of religion who are blind leaders of the blind.

  Jesus said: “Every plant which my heavenly Father  hath not planted shall be rooted up. Let them alone, they be blind leaders of the blind, and if the blind lead the blind, both shall   fall into the ditch.” Matthew  15: 13,14.

     These blind leaders have never truly been born again and experienced a personal relationship with Jesus Christ; therefore, they teach the doctrines of men, a social gospel of good  works, good deeds, the keeping of rules and commandments .  More emphasis placed on tolerance and love, and at the same time neglecting to teach the penalty of not being forgiven and pardoned by God and having a personal relationship with Christ.

     Praise God! Christ is  willing and able to open the blind eyes of all those who will come to him and ask to receive their sight.  In asking we must believe that he is, in fact, the divine son of God, and is the only way, the truth, and the light.  We must believe that  he is the propitiation for our sins: he paid the price of our redemption, and we  are forever saved by his grace.  We must believe that he arose from the dead and ascended into heaven, and is now our great high priest who makes intercession for us before the throne of God.  We must believe that  if we will confess our sins, he is faithful and  just to forgive our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

    When we receive all this truth by faith as a free gift of God's grace, we are miraculously born again, and then and only then can we see spiritual things.  We must have the confidence that Jesus can and will do all this for us, and as we believe, Jesus said, it shall be done unto us.

     “And when Jesus departed thence two blind men followed him, crying,  and saying, thou son of David, have mercy on us.  And while he was come into the house, the blind men came to him: and Jesus saith unto them, believe ye that I am able to do this?  They said unto him, yea, Lord.  Then touched he their eyes, saying, according to your faith be it unto you.  And their eyes were opened, and Jesus straitly charged them, see  that no man know it.” Matthew 9: 27-30.

     In this case Jesus gave physical  sight to physical eyes, and at  this time he was not yet ready for it to be known abroad.  Today Jesus will give spiritual sight to spiritual eyes and he wants all those  who have received spiritual eyesight to go into all the world and  preach the gospel.

Thorns in the Flesh

Thought for Today - September 14, 2022
Thorns in the Flesh
By: Robert A. Searles

    When God delivered Israel into  the  land  of  their possessions, he made a covenant with them.  He swore to them that he would never break his part of the covenant, and he  expected them not to break theirs. 

 ”And ye shall make no league with the inhabitants of this  land; ye shall throw down their altars but ye have not obeyed my voice; why have ye done this?  Wherefore I also said, I will not drive them out from before you; but they shall be thorns  in your sides, and their gods shall be a snare unto you” Judges 2;2,3

     We who call ourselves Christians, and the sanctified children of God, are not to be a part of, nor go along with the pagan ways of the world or the world's way of thinking and philosophy.  Our fellowship and conformity with the world's philosophy will be as thorns in our flesh.

 All the people served the Lord all the days of Joshua and the elders that outlived Joshua, but after Joshua and the elders of Israel had died, another generation arose which knew not the things of  the  Lord. 

“And also all that generation were gathered unto their fathers; and there  arose another generation after them which knew not the Lord nor yet the works which he had done  for Israel.  And  the children of Israel did evil in the sight  of the  Lord, and served Baalim: and they forsook the Lord God of their  fathers, which brought them out of the land of Egypt, and followed other gods, of the gods of the people that were  round about them, and bowed themselves unto them, and provoked the lord  to  anger.” Judges 2: 10, 11, 12

     Several generations have come and gone , since the founding of America, which have not known God nor considered his works.  This is the fault of previous generations of Christians who have not properly taught their children the proper knowledge, or respect for God and his works.Too many of us Christians  are forsaking the ways of God and following the God of the society in which we live.  We are setting poor examples for future generations, consequently, each new generation has lesser knowledge and respect for the God of our fathers.  Wealth and material things have become our object of worship. 

 “And the anger of the Lord was hot against Israel, and he delivered them into the hands of spoilers that spoiled them, and he sold them into the hands of their enemies round about, so that they could not any longer stand before their enemies.” Judges 2: 14

     I believe that the anger of the Lord is hot against America today for neglecting him and his worship; because of widespread adultery; because of abortions - the murder of new born babies; and all kinds of sexual promiscuity and perversion.  Will he  deliver us into the hands of  spoilers or the terrorist?

     “Nevertheless, the Lord raised up judges, which delivered them out of the hand of those that spoiled them.  And yet they would not hearken unto their judges, but they went a whoring after other gods, and bowed themselves unto them: they turned quickly out of the way which their fathers walked in, obeying the commandments of the Lord; but they did not so.” Judges 2: 16, 17

     God raises up preachers and evangelist and soul winners today in America to warn us; but for the most part we do not listen.   We go whoring after the things of   the world.  What a shame for us as Christians to do this sort of thing. Perhaps if we will put the Ten Commandments and prayer in the name of Jesus back into the public school system, and other public places, and teach our children and future generations, the proper respect for authority and the word of God, then, the guns and other weapons will disappear from the schools; children will receive a proper education; and law enforcement will become less violent .

For you who are reading this, if you are a Christian and wholeheartedly believe these truths, why not come out of the wallpaper, so to speak, and let your voices be heard – where you work; from the pulpit; from your church; among your close associates.  Too many of us are remaining silent, and if it continues to be so, it may lead to disaster

Telehelp Publications Christian Litrature Ministry

                                   Psalm 26: 7

 

Why Do the Heathen Rage?

Thought for Today -  September 13
Why Do The Heathen Rage?
By: Robert A  Searles

"Why do the heathen rage, and the people imagine a vain thing?   The kings of the earth set themselves, and the rulers take counsel together, against the Lord, and against his anointed, saying,   Let us break their bands asunder, and cast away their cords from us.   He that sitteth in the heavens shall laugh: the Lord shall have them in derision. Then shall he speak unto them in his wrath, and vex them in his sore displeasure.  Yet have I set my king upon my holy hill of Zion.  I will declare the decree: the Lord hath said unto me, Thou art my Son; this day have I begotten thee. Ask of me, and I shall give thee the heathen for thine inheritance, and the uttermost parts of the earth for thy possession. Thou shalt break them with a rod of iron; thou shalt dash them in pieces like a potter's vessel. Be wise now therefore, O ye kings: be instructed, ye judges of the earth.   Serve the Lord with fear, and rejoice with trembling. Kiss the Son, lest he be angry, and ye perish from the way, when his wrath is kindled but a little. Blessed are all they that put their trust in him."  Psalm 2 (KJV) Bible

In spite of present day conditions and circumstances which seemingly  contradict the teaching of the word of God, and in spite of the fact that the heathen do rule and  reign, and the kings of the earth set themselves against the Lord and his anointed, God in heaven laughs, for a season, at the ignorance and stupidity of sinful, heathen human beings when they think they know more than God. Then when he has them in derision and he has had a good laugh, so to speak, let the heathen and all the kings of the earth beware, for God has declared that he will rise up in his wrath and sore displeasure, and with absolute authority declare the decree that he has set his son, the Lord Jesus Christ  on the throne of the universe to rule and to reign forever over all the kingdoms of the earth.All those who remain heathen and reject Christ will be cast down and dashed in pieces like a potter's vessel.  Therefore those who are wise will  kiss the son and honor him lest they perish from  the way, when the anger of God is kindled but a little.  All who put their trust in him will be  blessed.  

Take heed! Thus sayeth the Lord! 

Telehelp Publications Christian Literature Ministry
www.bibles-books-gifts.com
www.telehelppublications.blogspot.com      

Be Quiet and Listen

 Thought for Today - September 12
Be Quiet and Listen!
By: Robert A. Searles

“The words of wise men are heard in quiet more than the cry of him that ruleth among fools.” Ecc 9:
17 (KJV)

While God is speaking to us, are we really listening, or is the clamor and noise of this sin cursed world drowning out the voice of our loving heavenly Father who is trying to tell us of his love and mercy for his children? If we really want to know what God is saying to us, moment by moment, we must cease from our own noise making, and listen intently to the still small voice of God. We cheat ourselves of so much comfort and so many blessings when we are so preoccupied with our own everyday affairs, that we do not take the time to get alone with God in our own secret hiding place and listen for the voice of God as he speaks to us by the various methods which he chooses. How does God speak to us? God speaks to us first of all by his written word, the Holy scriptures. In them, God tells us how the heavens and the earth came into being.He tells us how he made man
and woman, and all the animals and creeping things of the earth for the use and benefit of mankind. He tells us how he hates sin, but loves the sinner. He tells us that we all have sinned and come short of his glory, but that he is willing to forgive and forget our sins. He tells us how we may obtain that forgiveness and renewal of spirit and restoration of fellowship with himself. In the written word, God also assures us that every word written in the scriptures are true and given by his Holy Spirit to his chosen prophets and historians who would be faithful men and women to record his words for all futuregenerations to come.

“All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for
correction, for instruction in righteousness.” 2 Timothy 3:16 (KJV)

“We have also a more sure word of prophesy; where unto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a
light that shinneth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day star arise in your heart; knowing this first that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation. For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man; but holy men of God spoke as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.” 2 Peter1:19- 21 (KJV)

In the Holy Scriptures, God relates to us the history of his chosen people, Israel from Abrahamdown through the centuries to the present generations. He speaks to us of the promises he has made to his chosen ones. He show us all the trials and tribulations that his people have experienced because of their sins and rebellion and turning their back on him and worshiping idols. Through the history of
his people Israel, he warns all of us of what can become of rebellious nations who forget God and turn to idols; but he also reveals to us his great love and mercy when men and women repent and turn backto him. In the written word, God is speaking to us to show us the way back from our sinfulness and rebellion by receiving his son as the perfect sacrifice for our sin. He tells us that: Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures, that he was buried and rose again the third day, according to the scriptures, and is now in heaven interceding for all of us who will believe and receive him, and we are promised that he is coming again to receive his children to himself and establish his kingdom on
earth. In the written word, God offers us comfort and rest when we are tired and weary, and peace when we have turmoil in our soul. God also speaks to us through the living Word, the Lord Jesus Christ.

“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The same
was in the beginning with God. All things were make by him; and without him was not anything made that was made., In him was the life, and the life was the light of men. And the light shinneth in the darkness, and the darkness comprehended it not.” John 1: 1-5 (KJV)

God is spirit. The bible says that no one has seen God at any time, but the son of God has revealed
him. Christ came into the world not only to die for the sins of the world, but also to reveal God the Father to the world. Jesus said: “if you have seen me you have seen the Father. I and the Father are one.” God the Father, speaking through his son, the Lord Jesus Christ, spoke to his disciples in the language of men, in an audible voice which they could understand, and record his message to all mankind through the gospels. Jesus, while on earth, spoke many words of wisdom and instruction to his apostles and disciples, to which we ought to listen intently and pay the most earnest heed. Do weread and study the gospels and quietly listen to the words of Jesus, and make them a part of our very being as was intended by God?

God also speaks to us through his indwelling Holy Spirit in the heart and mind of every born again child of his. When Jesus ascended into heaven he promised, that when he went away, he would send another comforter, to be a constant companion, interpreter of the word of God, instructor and guardian of his redeemed, God has so much for us to know of him, so much to enjoy and be blessed by him. God speaks in a still small voice, and in order to hear what he is saying, we must quietly listen. We must stop our ears, at least for a little while from all the noise of the world, and the noise within our own soul. Arise in the morning and behold the majesty of a gorgeous sunrise, and allow the sunrise of the love of God to arise in your own soul. Stop and smell the fragrance of the rose, and enjoy the peace and tranquility of a beautiful sunset, and know that with God all is well, and it is well with your soul.

Only Trust Him

Thought for Today - September  12, 2022
Only Trust Him
By: Robert A. Searles

     “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart, and  lean not unto thine own understanding.  In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.” Proverbs 3: 5, 6.

     What does it mean to trust in the Lord?  Trust is the word frequently used in the old testament to mean the same as faith in the new testament, for example: to trust is to have faith, and if we have faith, we trust.  It means to take refuge, to lean on, to follow, to wait for.  To trust in the Lord is to put full confidence in the word of God for our salvation, and for our strength as Christians, and for our daily needs.  We are told not to lean on our own understanding.  In other words, we are not to try to rationalize or figure out God's amazing grace, or his power, or the working of miracles, or his work of redemption in our lives; but we are simply to trust in what his word tells us. God honors those who have confidence in his word     How can we trust in something with which we are not familiar?  How can we claim promises if we do not know what thosepromises are?  This is why it is so important for us to spend so much time in God's word, and in our private meditation, so that we can know what God's word has to say, then we can put our trust in it.

     “Trust and do good” Psalm 37: 3-5,

 In other words, when God has spoken through his written word or through the Holy Spirit in our lives, again, we ought not to try to figure out what is going on in our heart or to rationalize away the working of the Holy Spirit.  Instead, we ought to trust God and do good.  God's word tells us the things that are good and right.  We ought to obey God immediately, with the right heart attitude, when God speaks , and trust God for the results.  As we read and study the word of God, and as God reveals himself to us and we see his glory unfolded before our eyes, we ought to delight ourselves in him. He ought to be our prime source of joy and happiness and gladness, and our chief desire and purpose in life ought to be to love, honor, and serve him. 

 If we delight ourselves in the Lord, then all the cravings and desires of our heart will be good and pure in his sight, because they will come from on high, and we shall be satisfied when he fills us with his Holy Spirit.

     We ought to commit ourselves completely to the Lord.  This means to surrender everything to the Lord.  It is like jumping from a tall building with full assurance that someone will catch us, or we will land on something soft. 

 We ought to let go in our lives, and let God have our family, our job, our finances, and all that is important to us.

     “In all thy ways acknowledge him and he shall direct thy paths.” Proverbs 3: 6.  

Telehelp Publications Christian Literature Ministry

                                  Psalm 26: 7

My God, Why Hast Thou Forsaken Me?

Thought for Today - September 8, 2022
My God,Why Hast Thou Forsaken  Me?
By: Robert A. Searles

Jesus cried out from the cross - "My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?" Mark15: 34; Psalm 22:1

God had temporarily forsaken his own son so that I and all who will receive him can be saved and reconciled to God our creator and father.

Psalm 22 describes the suffering and anguish which Christ suffered to accomplish our redemption.  Jesus spoke  through the words of David, the psalmist, these prophetic words long before Christ's appearance on earth. - "Be not far from me for trouble is near; for there is  none to help.  Many bulls have compassed me: strong bulls of Bashan have beset me round.  They gaped upon me with their mouths, as a ravening and roaring lion. I am poured out like water; all my bones are out of joint; my heart is like wax, it is melted in the midst of my bowels.  My strength is dried up like a potsherd. and my tongue cleaveth to my jaws; and thou hast brought me into the dust of death.  For dogs have compassed me: the assembly of the wicked have inclosed me: they pierced my hands and my feet.  I may tell all my bones: they look and stare upon me. They part my garments among them, and cast lots for my vesture.  But  be not thou far from me, o Lord my strength, haste thee to help me. Deliver my soul from  the sword; my darling from  the power of the dog.  Save me from the lion's mouth:for thou hast heard me from the horns of the unicorn.  I will declare thy name unto my brethren: In the midst of the congregation will I praise  thee." Psalm 22: 11-22.

All this and much more did Christ suffer for us, and yet how ungrateful some of us are when we ignore his offer of love and compassion for us. 

Christ came into the world to love everybody and to  reveal all the attributes of God the Father, He came to offer himself a sacrifice to pay in full for the sins of all mankind. He did not come to condemn us, but to save us who are already condemned because of our sin nature.

How depraved we all must be when we spit in the face of such genuine, holy love of God. They who spit upon Christ, and did all the things that he describes in the gospels and the psalms, could have received him as their Savior and redeemer, and enjoyed all the goodness and blessings  which he had to offer them.  Instead, they blasphemed and crucified him, and chose Barabas, a man of hate and crime to go free, which typifies all of us who have been freed from sin and condemnation by Christ's sacrifice for us.

We  deserved to be the recipents of all the brutality and receive everlasting punishment.  We are guilty, but Christ was not guilty of any sin or wrong doing.  He was perfect in every way and knew no sin. He who had no sin of his own, took our sins and became sin for us.

May we today remember these things and offer up our praises and thanksgiving for all that we have in Christ Jesus.

"Ye that fear the Lord praise him; all ye the seed of Jacob, glorify him; and fear him all ye the seed of Israel" Psalm 22: 23

"All the ends of the world shall  shall remember  and turn unto the Lord: and the kindreds of the nations shall worship before thee." Psalm 22: 27.

Telehelp Publications Christian Literature Ministry

                                  Psalm 26: 7

Expect Great Things From God

Thought for Today - September -8
Expect Great Things From God
By: Robert A. Searles

 “I am the Lord thy God,  which brought thee out of the land of Egypt: open thy mouth wide and I will fill it.” Pslm 81: 10

  God has delivered us, and set us free from the bondage of Satan, and the market place of sin and slavery.  He has promised to care for us and supply all our needs.

  Coming out of Egypt is a picture of being delivered out of a lost condition, and becoming saved.  God went to great expense to save us and bring us out of bondage from the power of Satan.  He gave his only begotten son, and spilled divine blood.  That which having been purchased with so great a sacrifice, think it not otherwise, but that the Lord will keep, polish, nurture and preserve us, his redeemed children unto himself forever.  Therefore, we ought to look for, and expect great things from God.

 The wide open mouth of a young bird is in great expectation of it being filled by the mother bird.  It pleases God greatly when we look to him for all our needs,  and to open our spiritual mouth wide, and expect, without shadow of doubt, that he will fill our mouths with good things.

Telehelp Publications Christian Literature Ministry

www.bibles-books-gifts.com

www.telehelppublications.blogspot.com