Peace. Reels and posts galore telling you to “protect your peace”. But here’s the thing. Selfish ambition always leads to disorder. Not peace (James 3:16). When my world is consumed by me as I pursue the futile endeavor of protecting my peace, I am perpetuating the disorder in my life. See, Jesus promises to be the keeper of our peace. It’s simple. We keep our minds on Jesus, and He will keep our peace (Isaiah 26:3). Keeping your own peace is not your job. Trying to control everything around us so we can have “peace” never ends in true peace.…
Psalm 112:9 “He hath dispersed, he hath given to the poor; his righteousness endureth for ever; his horn shall be exalted with honour.” This week we have looked at the many blessings that the Lord has bestowed on those who fear Him and keep His commandments. Today we are looking at those who have been blessed with the gift of compassion and generosity. There are a lot of needs in our world today. We cannot give to every appeal that we hear about. God intends us to be good stewards of what He has given us. Our first obligation is to our local church with Tithes, offerings, and Missions giving. After I have budgeted for my monthly bills and needs, I ask the Lord to direct me as to how I use the rest. Over the years, I have learned to listen to His still small voice, as He shows me where I can be a blessing. He never lets me down. Consider the following scriptures: II Corinthians 9:6-7 “But this I say, He which soweth sparingly shall reap also sparingly; and he which soweth bountifully shall reap also bountifully. Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let…
Psalm 112:7-8 “He shall not be afraid of evil tidings: his heart is fixed, trusting in the LORD. His heart is established, he shall not be afraid, until he see his desire upon his enemies.” Have you listened to or watched any news programs today? If so, you have probably been bombarded with shocking news. The headlines scream at us of wars, fires, children missing, mass shootings, and other scary events. Jesus warned us that this would happen: Luke 21:25-26 “And there shall be signs in the sun, and in the moon, and in the stars; and upon the earth distress of nations, with perplexity; the sea and the waves roaring; Men’s hearts failing them for fear, and for looking after those things which are coming on the earth: for the powers of heaven shall be shaken.” Truly what is happening in our world today is bringing fear and anxiety. But we have peace in our hearts because we know the Prince of Peace. That is one of the greatest blessings that the Lord has promised to those who serve Him. Look at the instructions He gives us: Luke 21:28 “And when these things begin to come to pass, then look up, and…
“Surely he shall not be moved for ever: the righteous shall be in everlasting remembrance.” Psalm 112:6 Oxford Dictionary describes steadfastness as “the quality of being resolutely or dutifully firm and unwavering.” One of the best descriptions the Bible records of a blessed person can be found in the first verse of Psalm One: “And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water.” The tree sends its roots down deep into the soil and draws the water it needs to sustain life and produce fruit. Storms may come and winds blow. The tree may bend but…
“Unto the upright there ariseth light in the darkness: he is gracious, and full of compassion, and righteous. A good man sheweth favour, and lendeth: he will guide his affairs with discretion.” Psalm 112:4-5 This week we are looking at the blessings that the Lord bestows upon those who fear Him and obey His commandments. Today we will consider our influence on the people around us. As we walk closely with the Lord and strive to live according to His teachings, we will earn the respect of those we mingle with each day. Let us consider scriptures that speak about our reputation and influence: Proverbs 22:1 “A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches, and loving favour rather than silver and gold.” Luke 6:45 “A good man out of the good treasure of his heart bringeth forth that which is good; and an evil man out of the evil treasure of his heart bringeth forth that which is evil: for of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaketh.” Proverbs 4:23 “Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life.” Psalm 37:23 “The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD: and he…
“Wealth and riches shall be in his house: and his righteousness endureth for ever.” Psalm 112:3 So many in the world today are spending their time and energy to attain riches. Spiritual and family relationships are often destroyed as people seek wealth and prestige above all else. But this is not God’s plan for His people. I Timothy 6:10 “For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.” There is nothing wrong with having money. If the Lord has blessed us in this regard, then we need to thank Him for it and use what He has given us for His kingdom. But I believe this verse in Psalm 112 refers to spiritual riches, the blessings that we gain by being faithful to the Lord. Proverbs twenty-two gives us examples of true wealth and riches: A good name and loving favour Faith in God Humility and godly fear A child-like heart Generosity to others Purity of heart and thought. Diligence We serve a God who has promised to supply our every need. He wants us to have the necessary resources…