tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38687407802957581522024-03-18T03:00:31.604-05:00Country Road FaithLinda @ Country Road Faithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13199111840068499023noreply@blogger.comBlogger3488125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3868740780295758152.post-15395783905788431122024-03-18T03:00:00.169-05:002024-03-18T03:00:00.463-05:00Phony Verses Sincere<p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>N.T.#265 "Phony Verses Sincere"</b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>March 18, 2024 </b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Matthew 223-Part 7</b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>LET IT GLOW</b></span></p><p>We have finished the 8 rebukes of Jesus for the hypocritical scribes and Pharisees. Jesus rightly accused them of:</p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>deceit (verses 41-42)</li><li>pride (verse 43)</li><li>inconsistency (verses 44-46)</li><li>condoning murder and conspiracy (verses 47-51)</li><li>hindering people from being saved. (verse 53). (Luke 11)</li></ul> [Resource: <i>Liberty Bible Commentary</i>]<p></p><p>Soul check--Are any of those qualities found in us? We are to look, walk, and act differently. Our actions should be due to love within us-the love of the Father and Son, Jesus Christ. Can others tell a difference in us and the unsaved worldly?</p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>LET IT GROW</b></span></p><p>Jerusalem contained the beloved, chosen Jews. They were to make a difference in their world, showing the love of God. Yet, their religious leaders became self-centered, greedy, and power-hungry. They killed the prophets sent to warn the sinners to repent before calamity came upon them. They stoned those sent with the Truth and Word from God-Stephen and Jesus.</p><p>Since God is sovereign, He is fully capable of bringing to pass whatever He desires. (Isaiah 46:10) This includes the salvation of whomever He chooses. (Eph. 1:4,5) Yet He sometimes expresses a wish for that which He does not sovereignly bring to pass. He is full of compassion, sincerely good to all, desirous of good, not evil, and no delighted with the destruction of the wicked. (Ezek.18:32) He pleas for the repentance of the reprobate, shows goodness toward the wicked, has genuine mercy. (Rom. 2:4) (MacArthur) </p><p>Jesus would have gathered Jerusalem like children, like a hen gathers her chicks under her wings in a storm. Chicks in danger run to mamma hen. But the Jews would not! What a<b style="font-size: x-large;"> </b>deep, sincere passion. All of Jesus' feelings must be in perfect harmony with the divine will. (John 8:29) Jesus desired to gather the people of Israel and restore their blessings as their Messiah, but they would not repent of their sins and believe He is the Messiah.</p><p>In verse 38, Jesus foretells about the destruction coming in 70 AD. The Roman army swept through Judea, laid siege to Jerusalem, and destroyed the city and the temple then. They were not going to see Jesus again until He said: <b>Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord. </b>(verse 39).</p><p>Is Jesus reaching out His hands to you to gather you into His embrace? </p><p>Paul told us "A partial hardening has happened to Israel unto the fullness of the Gentiles has come in; and so all Israel will be saved. "(Romans 11:25-26) </p><p>When the complete number of Gentiles has entered the kingdom of God, the spiritual blindness of the nation Israel shall be removed. (Falwell)</p><p>Are you one who has trusted Jesus as your Savior and repented of your sins? If not, do it today.</p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>LET IT GO</b></span></p><p>Use us today to share Your love, salvation, mercy.</p><p>Help us surrender our all to You.</p><p>May we not be a phony spiritual person, but sincere.</p>Linda @ Country Road Faithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13199111840068499023noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3868740780295758152.post-61856412911128533022024-03-15T10:13:00.005-05:002024-03-15T10:14:14.034-05:00Compassionate and Longsuffering<p> <span style="font-size: large;"><b>N.T.#264 "Compassionate and Longsuffering"</b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>March 15, 2024 </b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Matthew 23-Part 6</b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>LET IT GLOW </b></span></p><p>In verse 34, Jesus is wrapping up His rebuke of the scribes and Pharisees after the 8 woes to those hypocrites. Verse 34 is reference to the disciples, prophets, evangelists, and pastors who followed them. He gave gifts to men and the gifted men to the church-apostles and Paul. (Eph. 4:11)</p><p>Verse 35 is a little puzzling, yet it refers to Zechariah the prophet was martyred between the temple and the altar in a way similar to how the previous Zechariah was killed. </p><p>That generation experienced the utter destruction of Jerusalem and the burning of the temple in A.D. 70. It came as judgment which Jesus was speaking about, and the removal of the blessing of God from the temple. (verses 37-38) (MacArthur)</p><p><b style="font-size: x-large;">LET IT GROW</b></p><p>We read of the compassion of Jesus in verse 37. He delights in good, not evil, and was not delighted in the destruction of the Temple. Ezekiel 18L30-32 challenged the house of Israel to repent and turn from all their transgressions, so they would not be a stumbling block that caused their punishment. They needed a new heart and a new spirit. the Lord takes no pleasure in anyone's death, so should they die? Repent and live. </p><p>If we renounce our life's direction of sin and rebellion and turn to God, He will give us a new direction, a new love, and a new power to change. Determine to trust in God's power by faith to change you heart and mind. Then determine to live each day with Him in control. (Eph. 4:22-24) (<i>Life Application Study Bible)</i></p><p>Dear one, have you had a change of heart, mind, and will? Jesus can give it to you when you come to Him by faith, repenting of your sins.</p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>LET IT GO</b></span></p><p>What a loving and compassionate Savior You are, Sweet Jesus!</p><p>How longsuffering You are, waiting on us to repent and turn to You.</p><p>Help us be loving, compassionate, and longsuffering, too.</p><p><br /></p>Linda @ Country Road Faithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13199111840068499023noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3868740780295758152.post-37019242437081654732024-03-14T09:40:00.001-05:002024-03-14T09:40:00.143-05:00Clean Inside and Out<p> <span style="font-size: large;"><b>N.T.#263 "Clean Inside and Out"</b></span></p><p><b style="font-size: x-large;">March 14, 2024</b></p><p><b style="font-size: x-large;">Matthew 23-Part 5</b></p><p><b style="font-size: x-large;">LET IT GLOW </b></p><p>Don't we like to wear clean clothes and have taken a shower or bath to remove dirt from our body? Yet more important is our heart and soul. Are we concerned with keeping sin out of our mind and soul? Do we daily confess our sins to Jesus? Some men had this problem. Check it out.</p><p>We are finishing the 8 woes Jesus gave to the hypocritical scribes and Pharisees. Jesus saw their hearts and they were unclean. </p><p>7. They were like whitewashed tombs-beautiful on the outside but filled on the inside with dead people's bones and all sorts of impurity. Those guys looked like righteous people outwardly, but inwardly their hearts were filled with hypocrisy and lawlessness. (<i>NLT)</i> Oh, they appeared clean, pure, holy, and spotless, yet their heart had a stench of death and corruption. (verses 27-28)</p><p>Tombs were regularly whitewashed to make them stand out. Accidentally touching or stepping on a grave caused ceremonial uncleanness. (Numbers 19:16) (MacArthur)</p><p>No matter how much you decorate the exterior of a grave, the interior still contains death. The Pharisees seemed righteous to People on the outside, but on the inside they had wicked motives and desires. (Evans)</p><p>Are we clean from the inside out? Does our heart match our appearance?</p><p><b style="font-size: x-large;">LET IT GROW</b></p><p>8. The last woe to the scribes and Pharisees who built tombs of the prophets and decorated the graves of the righteous. (verse 29) They claimed that THEY would not have joined with their forefathers who killed the Old Testament-era prophets. Yet at the same time, they were rejecting the Messiah and planning to murder Him. They were just like those who had gone before them and murdered the prophets. (verse 31) (Tony Evans)</p><p>What a ridiculous claim to self-righteousness. How sad the influence those guys had on the people. Folks wee bullied all their lives by the man-made rules enforced by guilt and shame. They learned to hate rather than love the things of God. These were the strongest words Jesus ever delivered during His 33 year ministry. He confronted those whose influence reached well beyond His number.</p><p>Are we wearing a mask, pretending to be a Christian, with a clean heart?</p><p><b style="font-size: x-large;">LET IT GO</b></p><p>Cleanse my heart O God, make it ever pure. Cleanse my heart O God, may I be like you.</p><p>Thank You Jesus for providing a way to heaven, a way to live pleasing the Father, a way to show others love You have for them.</p><p>Show us our sins and help us admit them. </p>Linda @ Country Road Faithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13199111840068499023noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3868740780295758152.post-63644754901050947262024-03-13T07:37:00.156-05:002024-03-13T07:50:02.153-05:00Is Your Heart Sparkling Clean?<p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>N.T.#262 "Is Your Heart Sparkling Clean?"</b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>March 13, 2024 </b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Matthew 23-Part 4</b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>LET IT GLOW</b></span></p><p>When we moved, I wanted clean dishes in my cabinet, so I spent a lot of time washing them. The crystal in my display cabinet was dirty, for I had not washed them for quite some time. I wanted them to sparkle from the inside out. Jesus want us to sparkle for Him, too, with clean hearts and clean hands. </p><p>We are continuing the rebukes Jesus gave to the scribes and Pharisees. They were stumbling blocks in the way of sinners coming to repentance of their sins and conversion, shutting up heaven against men. These religious teachers were hypocrites. They devour widows' houses and make long pretending prayers.</p><p>3.They become missionaries of evil, spreading legalism like a disease. Using deception to capture converts, their ways were zealous without knowledge. (verse 15) Help us not block the way of salvation for people, Jesus.</p><p>4. This group taught that taking an oath, swearing by the Temple, altar, or heaven, a person was not bound to keep the oath. However, taking an oath in the name of the gold of the Temple, the gift on the altar, or the throne of God, the oath was binding. See how the Pharisees and scribes twisted the Word to make it their own? (verses 16-22)</p><p>Any oath made before God should be kept. Are we being the kind of example that honors our God? Do we keep our oaths with people and with God? What do folks know us as keeping our word or breaking promises? Are we honoring the Lord with our way of life?</p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>LET IT GROW</b></span></p><p>5. They were careful to tithe even the tiniest income from their herb gardens, but ignore the more important aspects of the law-justice, mercy, and faith. Counting the tiny seeds and tiny leaves for offerings with precision, was not what counted. In little matters the Pharisees kept the law, but completely<b style="font-size: x-large;"> </b>overlooked its more important precepts. Certainly tithing is important, just don't overlook justice, mercy, and faith. Are we neglecting compassion for others while trying to remain faithful to God? (verse 23)</p><p>6. Sorrow awaited these religious leaders who were so careful to clean the outside of a cup and dish, but the inside was filthy. First clean the inside and then the outside will become clean too. Exhorting from others is wrong. These guys had hearts full of greed, self-indulgence, and wickedness. (verse 25-26)</p><p>External purity was pointless if hearts were filled with robbery and selfishness. Who wants to drink from a cup that is clean on the outside, yet filthy on the inside? The Pharisees considered the external appearance more important than the internal reality. Their behavior was hypocritical. Jesus rebuked them often. Are we desiring to have a dirty heart and clean actions or a clean heart and clean actions?</p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>LET IT GO</b></span></p><p>Lord Jesus, I don't want to live like a hypocrite.</p><p>Cleans my mind, heart, will, emotions, soul, and body for sins.</p><p>Make me a clean vessel for the Holy spirit to occupy.</p><p>To You be the glory forever. </p>Linda @ Country Road Faithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13199111840068499023noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3868740780295758152.post-20758662707634237652024-03-12T07:26:00.151-05:002024-03-13T06:41:04.898-05:00What is Our Motive for Serving?<p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>N.T. #261 "What is Our Motive for Serving?"</b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>March 12, 2024 </b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Matthew 23-Part 3</b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>LET IT GLOW</b></span></p><p>Are you being a self-servant, exalting yourself, or a servant of Jesus, exalting Him? (verses 11-12) Love people to Jesus should be our motive for serving. God will give us opportunities if we are looking for them. For example, yesterday, a family member had surgery. My husband with to be with them in the hospital while I took their child to and from school. In between times, I fixed food for them whenever they got home, exhausted. We didn't do it for show or thanks, but out of love for them.</p><p>Today, we begin reading about the 7 woes with which Jesus confronted the scribes and Pharisees. (verses 13-36) </p><p>In the Greek language, <b>woe </b>means <i>exclamation of grief; </i><b>hypocrites </b>is <i>an actor under an assumed character (stage-player).</i></p><p>Why should this group of acting-religious guys be sorrowful?</p><p style="text-align: left;">1. They were condemning others, while rejecting the kingdom of heaven through Jesus Christ, being a stumbling block to prevent others receiving salvation. (verse 13) </p><p style="text-align: left;">Rather than drawing others into God's kingdom life with the glorious message of forgiveness and hope, they intentionally resisted the truth themselves and stood in the way of others. The scribes and Pharisees were only performing outward observances, wearing elaborate garb, keeping tedious rules and regulations when people were watching. Behind the religious mask, they harbored bitterness, envy, hatred, pride, arrogance, even murder. (Swindoll)</p><p style="text-align: left;">Did Jesus hold back? It was time He put them in their place. Remember, Jesus saw their hearts. He sees ours as well. Are we being a noisy cymbal or loud gong, pointing to our servanthood, like this group? Or are we genuinely serving with love, doing unto others like we want them to do unto us?<b style="font-size: x-large;"> </b></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>LET IT GROW</b></span></p><p>2. They exhorted money from the helpless and put them into debt and bondage, while making an outward show of religion. Theirs was the greater sentence. (verse 14) These guys were greedy for money, so they administered the estates of widows.</p><p>Their long prayers was only a pretense of a loving heart. Being a religious leader in Jerusalem was different back them. The religious leaders were the best known, most powerful, and most respected of all leaders. Jesus' stinging accusations were revealing their hunger for more power, money, and status. However, they lost sight of God and and their blindness was spreading to the whole nation. <i>(Life Application Study Bible)</i></p><p>Are our prayers for show or from a humble heart? Are we speaking to God or to people listening?</p><p>To Jesus, greatness came from serving. Are we aware of the needs of others? It stops us from focusing only on ourself. What kind of greatness are we seeking? Are we serving God's way or our way? Things to think about.</p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b> LET IT GO</b></span></p><p> Help us let go of money, power, status, Jesus.</p><p>May we serve someone today out of a heart of love for You and them.</p><p>To God be the glory forever and ever.</p>Linda @ Country Road Faithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13199111840068499023noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3868740780295758152.post-49432892867867165872024-03-11T03:00:00.098-05:002024-03-11T03:00:00.144-05:00Serving and Humility<p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>N.T.#260 "Serving and Humility"</b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>March 11, 2024 </b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Matthew 23-Part 2</b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>LET IT GLOW </b></span></p><p>It is one thing to love being honored and another thing to seek it for yourself, like the scribes and Pharisees. they thought too highly for themselves. Here we read of more teachings of Jesus:</p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>There is one Master, Christ. (<b>Master </b>is <i>a guide, a teacher.) </i>(verses 8 and 10)</li><li>All are brethren, brothers in Christ. (No pulling rank here.)</li><li>Call no man your father on earth. (verse 9)</li><li>One is our Father in heaven, whom we worship and exult. Thus, our Heavenly Father. (verse 9)</li></ul><div>The Rabbi were placing themselves above others and on a pedestal. Thee are no spiritual titles for us. Believers in Christ are brothers and sisters of the faith.</div><div><br /></div><div>Philippians 2:3-4 says, <b>Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind regard one another as more important than yourselves; do not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests of others.</b></div><p></p><p>Do we pray for our pastor, teachers, and leaders? They are equipping the saints for the work of service. (Ephesians 4:11-12)</p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>LET IT GLOW </b></span></p><p><b>But he that is greatest among you shall be your servant. (</b>verse 11)</p><p>A servant is a minister or attendant. When was the last time you served someone who could not do anything for you in return? That is what Jesus did.</p><p><b>And whosoever shall exalt himself shall be abased; and he that shall humble himself shall be exalted. </b>(verse 12)</p><p>Humility is an ornament which is a great price in the sight of God. Are we being humble?</p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>LET IT GO</b></span></p><p>Jesus, You are our Master, Teacher.</p><p>god, You alone are our Heavenly Father/</p><p>May we serve You today as we serve others.</p><p>Thank You for choosing us to be Your child.</p><p>Grow our faith so we honor You above all.</p>Linda @ Country Road Faithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13199111840068499023noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3868740780295758152.post-68953934401465813082024-03-08T09:48:00.124-06:002024-03-08T09:49:54.230-06:00Doing What We Say<p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>N.T.#259 "Doing What We Say"</b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>March 9, 2024 </b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Matthew 23 </b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>LET IT GLOW </b></span></p><p>Jesus warns the crowds and His disciples about the religious leaders in this chapter. </p><p>The scribes and Pharisees were:</p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li> good at telling others what to do but not good at carrying those instructions out themselves. they say and do not; (verse 3)</li><li>weighing down the Jews with burdens <i>(a task or service, something carried)</i> that were grievous (<i>hard, with difficulty</i>) not lifting a finger to help; (verse 4)</li><li>works done to be seen, for show, extra wide prayer boxes with Scripture inside and extra long tassels on their robes; (verse 5)</li><li>sitting at the head of the table at banquets and seats of honor in the synagogues; (verse 6)</li><li>loving to be called Rabbi, as an respectful greeting in the marketplaces. (verse 7)</li></ul><div>Those religious leaders were not a living example of what they were teaching. </div><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><b>LET IT GROW</b></span></div><div><br /></div><div>We are to be doing what we say, an example of our teachings. </div><div>What can we learn from them?</div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Practice what we preach/teach , .Be doers of the Word, not just hearers. Live integrity and not as a hypocrite.</li><li>Live by standards that are reachable for common people. Show sympathy and love.</li><li>Don't do things for show, but with humility model life like Jesus did.</li><li>Watch what we say, where we sit, every word we utter, act we perform, and title we have for the glory of God, not ourselves.</li></ul></div><div><br /></div><div> Are we helping others come to Jesus or are we complaining about people in the church? Are we drawing attention to how "holy we are?" Do we sit in places of honor instead of dwelling among servants? How does our family, friends, the lost, and church people perceive us? Are we loving others as ourself?</div><p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>LET IT GO</b></span></p><p>Love and serve others, letting go of pride.</p><p>Love and serve Jesus, not ourself.</p><p>Live what we say.</p><p> </p>Linda @ Country Road Faithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13199111840068499023noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3868740780295758152.post-3496323232665996972024-03-07T08:09:00.165-06:002024-03-07T08:59:19.112-06:00Who Do You Say Jesus Is?<p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>N.T.#258 "Who Do You Say Jesus Is?"</b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>March 7, 2024 </b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Matthew 22-Part 9</b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>LET IT GLOW</b></span></p><p>Are we blessing and praising the Lord, as in Psalm 103:1? What about honoring and esteeming others? Are you calling those who are sick to ask how you can help them? Do any elderly around you have a need? Are youngsters needing a listening ear by you?</p><p>Jesus asked the Pharisees four questions in verses 42-45:</p><p></p><ol style="text-align: left;"><li><b>What think ye of Christ? </b>(<b>Christ, </b>in Greek , refers to <i>Messiah.)</i></li><li><b>Whose son is He?</b></li><li><b>How then doth David in spirit call Him Lord? </b>(Ps. 103:1)</li><li><b>If David then call Him Lord, how is He </b>(the Messiah)<b> his son?</b></li></ol><div>Look how the Pharisees answered Jesus:</div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>He is the son of David, in referring to the Messiah Jesus Christ. That was their view of the Messiah. They accepted the Davidic lineage of the Messiah. (Mark 12:35)</li><li>The Pharisees did not believe the Messiah is divine, but only human. Jesus is God, but they would not believe and be saved.</li></ul>No one could answer Jesus any more, not did they ask Him any more questions. <br /><br /></div><div><b style="font-size: x-large;">LET IT GROW</b></div><div>No one could answer Jesus any more, nor did they ask Him any more questions. In one day, Jesus humiliated the religious ones. They heard the voice of God and caught a glimpse of God's very face. the divine Lord rendered the crowd speechless. (William Barclay)</div><div><br /></div><div>It was Jesus' claim of deity that would lead to His rejection and crucifixion. (26:57-68)</div><div>David and Mery called Jesus Lord.</div><div><br /></div><div>Who do you say Jesus is? Do you believe Jesus is who He says He is? Are we loving the Lord with everything we are, do, and have?</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved, and thy house. </b>(Acts 16:31) </div><div><br /></div><div>The Lord is the way of salvation for each person.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Believe </b>means <i>to have faith, to entrust (especially one's spiritual well-being to Christ).</i></div><div><i><br /></i></div><div>Are you trusting Jesus to be your Lord and Savior? Are you living for Him?</div><div><i><br /></i></div><div><b style="font-size: x-large;"> </b></div><p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>LET IT GO</b></span> </p><p>Hallelujah what a Savior!</p><p>How patient and loving You are, Jesus!</p><p>Be our Lord and Master today.</p><p>*Please pray for me, friends. I have a unique bacteria in my urinary tract. Waiting on a culture to see if it is clear or not. By Monday, I should know. If it is still with me, then I will have an IV of antibiotics that it is not resistant to. Trusting Jesus in the meantime to not allow any serious disease to develop in my wait. Thanks.</p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Linda @ Country Road Faithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13199111840068499023noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3868740780295758152.post-20219007853531225392024-03-05T09:00:00.000-06:002024-03-05T09:00:00.138-06:00Who is Our Neighbor?<p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>N.T.#257 "Who is Our Neighbor?"</b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>March 5, 2024 </b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Matthew 22-Part 8</b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>LET IT GLOW</b></span></p><p>Having you been living God with all your heart, soul, and mind? That is the first and great commandment. (verses 37-38) In other words, are our will, thoughts, feelings, soul, spirit surrendered to God?</p><p>What is the second and great commandment that Jesus gave? </p><p><b>And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself. </b>(verse 39)</p><p><b>Neighbor </b>refers to <i>close by; fellow (man, countryman, or friend)</i></p><p>It does not mandate self-love. It contains in different words the very same idea as the Golden Rule. (7:12) It prompts believers to measure their love for others by what they wish for themselves. (MacArthur)</p><p>The two command are inseparable. You can't obey one without the other. To love your neighbor is the decision to compassionately and righteously pursue his or her will-being. Do you want to draw closer to God? Help someone else draw closer to God. When you love others, God will boomerang it back to you and provide you with a deeper experience of Him. (Tony Evans)</p><p>There is our assignment. Love whomever we come in contact with.</p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>LET IT GROW </b></span></p><p>Jesus didn't have to deliberate, ponder, or wrack His brain. He evaluated each of the 613 commandments in the Law. He placed the vertical love of God and the horizontal love of people as the foundation and structure of the entire Law. (verse 40) (Swindoll)</p><p>No Pharisee could fault such an answer. </p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>LET IT GO</b></span></p><p>Help us let go of ourself-interest and love God and others.</p><p>Open our eyes to the needs of others.</p><p> </p>Linda @ Country Road Faithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13199111840068499023noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3868740780295758152.post-58863073505278404092024-03-04T03:00:00.176-06:002024-03-04T03:00:00.134-06:00How Do We Love God?<p> <span style="font-size: large;"><b>N.T.#256 "How Do We Love God?"</b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>March 4, 2024</b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Matthew 22-Part 7</b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>LET IT GLOW </b></span></p><p>The Pharisees, Sadducees, and Herodians got no where debating Jesus. So the top dog (lawyer) started in asking Jesus questions. (verse 35)</p><p><b>Lawyer </b>is an <i>expert in the Mosaic Law. </i></p><p>A Greek speaking lawyer was equivalent to a Doctorate of Theology today. By this time, there were over 600 Jewish laws the Pharisees had. A lawyer was usually a scribe, who spent their life meticulously copying the Hebrew Scriptures in order to preserve it or prevent corruption. They were the best trained, most brilliant scholar they could be. This ivory-tower scholar was no match for the Son of God, the Creator of all things. Yet, this lawyer's question was asked to tempt Him.</p><p><b>Tempting </b>refers to <i>entice; examine; prove; try.</i></p><p>Question: <b>Which is the great commandment in the law? </b>(verse 36)</p><p><b>Great </b>means <i>beloved; solitary.</i></p><p>Which single one was the most important of the laws? God's entire law can be reduced to this one of two found in verse 37.</p><p><b>Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind.</b>(verse 37)</p><p><b style="font-size: x-large;">LET IT GROW</b></p><p>Let's take a closer look at these key words:</p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><b>Love </b>means <i>deliberate assessment of the will.</i></li><li><b>Heart </b>refers to the <i>thoughts or feelings.</i></li><li><b>Soul </b>is that which is the <i>rational and immortal soul; life; breath; spirit.</i></li><li><b>Mind </b>is the <i>deep thought; understanding.</i></li></ul><div>How are we to love the Lord our God? With all our thoughts, feelings, soul, and understanding mind. God is the source of all we need, so we believers are to allow Him to work in us according to His will and His good pleasure. Have you turned over your will to God?</div><div><br /></div><div>What about our thoughts or feelings? Does God control them? How is our understanding and mind? Is our focus loving and praising Jesus, or has the world moved in and occupied our mind most of the times?</div><div><br /></div><div>God wants a relationship with you. He wants you to love Him, to passionately and righteously pursue His glory. Loving God with <i>some </i>of our heart, soul, and mind isn't <i>all. </i>However, don't we want all of God? Love for God is consistently expressed when we obey His commands. (John 14:5, 1 John 5:3)</div><div><br /></div><div><b style="font-size: x-large;">LET IT GO</b></div><div>Father, we owe You our all in all</div><div>Worthy of praise, love, and glory are You.</div><div>Help us love you with all our heart, all our soul, and all our mind.</div><div>Please forgive us when we do not.</div><p></p>Linda @ Country Road Faithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13199111840068499023noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3868740780295758152.post-40509895420598094612024-03-01T09:36:00.109-06:002024-03-01T09:36:00.131-06:00Where Will You Spend Eternity?<p> <span style="font-size: large;"><b>N.T.#255 "Where Will You Spend Eternity?"</b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>March 1, 2024 </b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Matthew 22-Part 7</b></span></p><p>Jesus asked if the Sadducees had not read: <b>I am the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob? God is not the God of the dead, but of the living. </b>(verse 32)</p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>LET IT GLOW </b></span></p><p>The topic was still about the resurrection. The Sadducees did not believe in it. Even though the patriarchs were dead physically, they were very much alive spiritually. God is still their God. </p><p>Jesus used the present tense to point to the resurrection and the eternal life that all believers enjoy in Him. (<i>Life Application Study Bible</i>)</p><p>Our Christian loved ones, which are departed from us, are not dead in spirit, but with Jesus. They exist in an afterlife, like Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. One day we will sit down at the table with those men. (8:11)</p><p>As a result of Jesus' words, the Sadducees were silenced, the multitude was astonished, and the Pharisees continued to question Jesus. (verse 33) </p><p><b>Silence </b>means <i>to muzzle; hold peace. </i>It is like shutting the mouth of an animal with a muzzle.</p><p>As believers, may nothing silence our sharing the Gospel with the lost.</p><p>Where is your afterlife going to be spent-Heaven or Hell?</p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>LET IT GROW</b></span></p><p>The questioning wasn't over. The first attack had come from the Pharisees in cahoots with the Herodians. (verses 15-16) The second attack came from the Sadducees. (verse 23) The third and final attack came from the Pharisees with their star experts in the Law. (Swindoll)</p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>LET IT GO</b></span></p><p>Give us a hunger for Your Word, Father.</p><p>Help us apply it in our life.</p><p><br /></p>Linda @ Country Road Faithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13199111840068499023noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3868740780295758152.post-70784964616844217232024-02-29T03:00:00.155-06:002024-02-29T03:00:00.137-06:00Is the Resurrection Real or a Myth?<p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>N.T.#254 "Is The Resurrection Real or a Myth?"</b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Feb. 29, 2024 </b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Matthew 22-Part 6</b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>LET IT GLOW</b></span></p><p>Are there things we wonder about heaven? Will we have our physical body the same as it is now on earth? Will we be floating around like angels? </p><p>The Sadducees did not give up on their endeavor to discredit and humiliated Jesus. (Keep in mind that they did not believe in the resurrection.) They questioned Jesus about a hypothetical scenario where a man dies, leaving no children, so the brother of the man is obligated to marry his sister-in-law, raising their children unto the brother's name. Even if it took 7 brothers to marry the widow before they have children, then whose wife would she be in the resurrection, all 7?</p><p>Deuteronomy 25:5 says this is to be the Jews' practice. The widow was not to marry outside the family. The Sadducees were making a mockery of the doctrine of the resurrection of the dead. Their problem was not knowing the Scriptures or the power of God. (verse 29)</p><p><b style="font-size: x-large;">LET IT GROW </b></p><p><b>For in the resurrection they neither marry, nor are given in marriage, but are as the angels of God in heaven. </b>(verse 30)</p><p>This was Jesus' answer. </p><p><b>The Sadducees say that there is no resurrection, nor an angel, nor a spirit, but the Pharisees acknowledge them all. </b>(Acts 23:8)</p><p>So the sad Sadducees believed that:</p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>the soul perished with the body and the concept of resurrection was a myth;</li><li>denied the existence of angels and demons;</li><li>didn't believe in heaven and hell or eternal judgment and rewards;</li><li>believed obedience to God brought blessing in this life and disobedience brought retribution in the here and now;</li><li>there was no life after death or bodily resurrection.</li></ul><div>What three theological truths contrasted the Sadducees' beliefs?</div><div><ol style="text-align: left;"><li>The dead physical bodies will indeed rise.</li><li>The discontinuity between our present relationships and those in the afterlife-no marriages.</li><li>The nature of the afterlife-the resurrected one will be like angels in heaven. (verse 30) Angels are ageless, tireless, and deathless, delight in worship and service to their Creator. (Swindoll)</li></ol><div><b>God is not the God of the dead, but of the living. </b>(verse 32)</div></div><div><br /></div><div><b>I am the resurrection and the life; he who believes in Me will live even if he dies, and everyone who lives and believes in Me will never die. </b>(John 11:25-26)J</div><div><br /></div><div>Jesus is the key to it all. Dying physically does not put an end to our life, for believers will have it eternally with Jesus.</div><div>Do you believe in Jesus? He is the only way to heaven.</div><p></p><p><b style="font-size: x-large;">LET IT GO</b></p><p>Glory to God on High, who provided the way for us sinners to join Him in heaven forever!</p><p> </p>Linda @ Country Road Faithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13199111840068499023noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3868740780295758152.post-25145054888617296152024-02-28T03:00:00.125-06:002024-02-28T03:00:00.137-06:00What Are You Giving?<p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>N.T.#253 "What Are You Giving?"</b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Feb. 28, 2024 </b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Matthew 22-Part 5</b></span></p><p><b>Render therefore unto Caesar the things which are Caesar's, and unto God the things that are God's. </b>(verse 21)</p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>LET IT GLOW </b></span></p><p>On the Roman coin was the image of Tiberius Caesar, the emperor at the time of Jesus. Are we Christians walking in the image of our Savior? We owe Him our everything. God is more concerned with what we do with the spiritual, eternal, heavenly dimensions of our lives than our trinkets. To give God the things that are God's means to render to Him our whole being.</p><p><b>Render </b>means <i>to give away; yield.</i></p><p>Surely, we are to pay our taxes due, but our heart belongs to Jesus. To which do you yield?</p><p> God is sovereign and King. It is His kingdom and His wedding feast. He sends out the invitations, makes the rules, and chooses the attire. He takes our ragged garments of sin and replaces them with His own righteousness. That is the only way we can come to the feast. We owe our greatest love, highest honor, and humblest obedience to God, not to a political leader, boss, or church. </p><p>[Resource: <i>Swindoll's Living Insights on Matthew 16-28</i>]</p><p>The things that are God's do not belong to Caesar and should be given only to God. (MacArthur)</p><p><b>Love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might. </b>(Deut. 6:5)</p><p><b>There is one God, and one mediator also between God and men, the man Christ Jesus. </b>(1 Tim.2:5)</p><p>Are we giving God our total obedience in hoor of the daily benefits He gives us?</p><p><b style="font-size: x-large;">LET IT GROW </b></p><p>Jesus barely had time to catch His breath when a group of Sadducees showed up. This group was a powerful religious sect associated with the high priests and aristocratic families. Also, they rejected many theological views of the Pharisees.</p><p>Wave after wave of attacks were from every angle by the Messiah's enemies. They believed that the soul perished with the body at death and that the concept of resurrection was a myth. So they didn't believe in heaven or hell, eternal rewards and judgment. </p><p><b>The Sadducees say that there is no resurrection, nor an angel, nor a spirit, but the Pharisees acknowledge them all. </b>(Acts 23:8)</p><p>No hope of the resurrection after death-how sad they must have been. Jesus had the power to rise from the grave and He will raise us, too.</p><p>Do you have this hope, dear one?</p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>LET IT GO</b></span></p><p>Thank You Jesus for being our hope of eternal life.</p><p>Help us share this hope with others, so they can have eternal life in heaven.</p>Linda @ Country Road Faithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13199111840068499023noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3868740780295758152.post-24745967257141833622024-02-27T03:10:00.119-06:002024-02-27T03:10:00.139-06:00Paying Taxes and Tithes<p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>N.T.#252 "Paying Taxes and Tithes"</b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Feb. 27, 2024 </b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Matthew 22-Part 4 </b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>LET IT GLOW </b></span></p><p>The Pharisees were trying to trap, trick, tempt Jesus (entangle). They sent the Herodians to Him. What did they say to Jesus?</p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>First, they called Jesus <b>Master, </b>which means <i>instructor, teacher. (verse 16)</i></li><li>We know that Thou art <b>true </b><i>(not as concealing) </i>or honest,</li><li>and <b>teachest </b><i>(to teach in the broad application} </i>the way of God truthfully,</li><li>are impartial and don't play favorites.</li></ul><div>It was true that Jesus was truthful and taught Truth, as well as not showing partiality. He lived and spoke of the way god requires us to walk, which leads to happiness and pleasing God. Also, Jesus was a skillful and faithful Teacher.</div><div><br /></div><div>Although we read the Truth, do we apply it? </div><p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>LET IT GROW </b></span></p><p><b>Is it lawful to give tribute unto Caesar, or not? </b>(verse 17)</p><p>If Jesus answered yes, He could have been held as a traitor to the people. If He said no, He could have been denouncing the Roman authorities.</p><p><b>Why are you trying to trap Me, you hypocrites? </b>(verse 18)</p><p>Jesus knew their discussion was a trap, for they were deceivers. He asked for a coin, whose image was on it, which was Caesar's. </p><p><b>Give to Caesar what belongs to Caesar, and give to God what belongs to God. </b>(verse 21)</p><p>Plan and simple, huh? They marveled or were amazed at Jesus' answer. We are to give to meet our civil duty and honor God with what is due Him. </p><p>Are we faithful to pay our taxes and tithe in worship?</p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>LET IT GO</b></span></p><p>Help us be a faithful witness by paying our taxes due and tithe what God asks of us.</p><p><br /></p><p> </p>Linda @ Country Road Faithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13199111840068499023noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3868740780295758152.post-69472983263217953992024-02-26T03:03:00.125-06:002024-02-26T03:03:00.269-06:00Are You Chosen<p> <span style="font-size: large;"><b>N.T.#251 "Are You Chosen?"</b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Feb. 26, 2024 </b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Matthew 22-Part 3</b></span></p><p><b>For many are called, but few are chosen. </b>(verse 14)</p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>LET IT GLOW</b></span></p><p>The call spoken of here is sometimes referred to as the "general call", a summons to repentance and faith that is inherent in the gospel message. This call extends to all who hear the gospel. "Many" hear it; "few" respond. Those who respond are the "chosen," the elect. The "chosen" enter the kingdom only because of the grace of God in choosing and drawing them. <i>(The MacArthur Bible Commentary</i>}</p><p>I hope you have found a calling to salvation through this posting of the Word. I pray after completing it that God would save all who come and read it. If you are one, would you leave a comment? If you are already saved, would you join me in praying for the lost who visits here? There are visitors throughout the world, so pray that the Holy Spirit would draw all unto God through faith in Jesus as their Savior. </p><p>Simply believe Jesus is God's Son who lived a perfect life, died in your place to pay for your sins, and rose from the dead to provide life eternal in heaven. Confess your sins and ask Jesus' forgiveness. </p><p><b>That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised Him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. </b>(Romans 10:9-10)</p><p>Have you believed, and confessed Jesus is your Savior?</p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>LET IT GROW</b></span></p><p>In verse 15, the Pharisees discussed how they might entangle Jesus. </p><p><b>Entangle </b>means <i>ensnare; a trap, trick, temptation.</i></p><p>So they sent their disciples, the Herodians with a question. The Herodians were a party of the Jews who supported the Roman-backed Herodian dynasty. They were a political party, not a religious party. Probably, they consisted largely of Sadducees (including the rulers of the Temple) For both groups to conspire together to trap Jesus shows how seriously both groups viewed Jesus as a threat. Herod wanted Jesus dead. (Luke 13:31) The Pharisees were already plotting to kill Jesus as well. (John 11:53) So they joined efforts to seek their common goal.</p><p>But Jesus only spoke the truth. They were convicted of their sin, you think? Therefore, they wanted to remove the Speaker and the Truth. Jesus is the Truth. (John 14:6)</p><p>What will you do with the One called Jesus? Obey and follow His Truth and Life? Or turn away and be cast into outer darkness, weeping and gnashing teeth-for ever and ever?</p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>LET IT GO</b></span></p><p>Oh how gracious, loving, and forgiving You are Jesus!</p><p>You are so good to me, for You paid it all for me.</p><p>Help me let go of the worldliness and trust You with my all.</p>Linda @ Country Road Faithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13199111840068499023noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3868740780295758152.post-51216882446467804612024-02-23T08:35:00.147-06:002024-02-23T08:35:00.146-06:00The Wedding Garment<p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>N.T.#250 "The Wedding Garment"</b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Feb. 23, 2024 </b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Matthew 22-Part 2</b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>LET IT GLOW</b></span></p><p>It is traditional to have matching attire for the maids and men in the wedding party. If someone refuses to wear the required clothing, then they will not participate in the wedding and the banquet. God has some requirements for us, too, in order to enter heaven and participate in the Marriage Feast of the Lamb.</p><p>Jesus told a parable of the wedding banquet to the Pharisees. He was showing the kingdom of heaven was like a king who invited his elite guests 3 times to attend the marriage of his son and banquet,<b style="font-size: x-large;"> </b>but they rejected his invitation. They even killed the servants of the king. So the king took action and slew the murderers and burned the city. (verse 7) Then the king sent his servants out on the roads to invite whoever may come to attend. </p><p>It was customary to give the wedding guests garments to wear to the banquet. A man was found by the king not wearing the wedding garment, so the king asked him why. (verse 11) The guy was speechless. Then the king instructed his servants to bind the man and cast him into outer darkness. </p><p><b>There shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth. </b>(verse 13)</p><p>What spiritual application is there for this parable?</p><p>Sinners are invited to attend the marriage of the Lamb in heaven. The garment required in order to attend is the Robe of Righteousness, which is provided by trusting Jesus, Savior and Redeemer. </p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>LET IT GROW</b></span></p><p>The marriage feast of the Lamb is read about in Revelation 19. It is Jesus and His church, which consists of faithful believers in all time.</p><p><b>For many are called, lbut few are chosen. </b>(verse 14)</p><p>The Jews (invited first) have the outward call of God, but it is not sufficient for salvation through faith in Jesus as the Messiah. There is an open invitation to heaven, but the requirement is to get ready now. Gentiles are provided an invitation. A clean heart is essential for entrance. </p><p>Those who refuse to humble before Jesus will be cast into Hell's darkness. Many are called to Jesus, but few are chosen to wear the wedding garment. </p><p>Are you prepared? Will you be in heaven, clothed with the salvation and righteousness of Jesus?</p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>LET IT GO</b></span></p><p>Glory to the Lamb of God who takes away sin! </p>Linda @ Country Road Faithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13199111840068499023noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3868740780295758152.post-64134073414842047622024-02-22T08:16:00.190-06:002024-02-22T10:19:48.398-06:00The Invitation to Come is Open<p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>N.T.#249 "The Invitation to Come is Open"</b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Feb. 22, 2024 </b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Matthew 22 </b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>LET IT GLOW </b></span></p><p>It was not the priests and elders confronting Jesus this time, but the Pharisees were back. They were masters of hypocrisy with murder on their minds. Their desperate plot was to snare Jesus by His words and actions. They were trying to find a weak spot in Jesus' armor and lunge their dagger of deceit swiftly and mercilessly. However, nothing the religious leaders did or said fooled Jesus. After hearing the two previous parables, the chief priests and Pharisees understood Jesus was speaking about them. (21:45)</p><p>In the third parable, Jesus likens the kingdom of heaven to a king which made a marriage feast/supper, and sent his servants to invite people to it. People invited to a royal wedding would have been the wealthy, political, social, and religious leaders of high standing. We would call it the VIP-only kind of event. </p><p>What happened?</p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>The king prepared a fantastic feast/dinner of oxen and <b>fatlings </b> (<i>grain, wheat, corn</i>) and everything was ready. (Maybe there was a huge, luscious cake.)</li><li>His servants were sent out inviting the elite, but they refused their invitation several times, snubbing the king.</li><li>This resulted in the invitees being disloyal to the king and his son. </li><li>Other servants were sent out inviting people to the wedding feast, but those light of the invitation and went about their work.</li><li>Some people even killed the king's servants. (verse 6)</li><li>This made the king <b>wroth </b>(<i>enrage, be angry, provoke),</i> so he sent his army to destroy the murderers and burn their city.</li><li>In 70 A.D., the Jews revolted against the Roman rule and Jerusalem was captured and destroyed. Only one wall remains as a result. Christians fled for their lives.<i> </i> </li></ul><p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>LET IT GROW</b></span></p><p><span><b style="font-size: x-large;"> </b>What is this about?</span></p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>The king represents God and the son stands for Jesus.</li><li>The elite invited to the banquet were Jewish leaders.</li><li>The Old Testament prophets foretold of the Messiah. John the Baptist invited the people to repent and believe in Jesus as Savior. Jesus came performing miracles, signs, and wonders.</li><li>The Jewish religious leaders ignored these invitations or actively attacked those who extended them.</li><li>God had been patient and graciously waiting for repentance, but soon His wrath will be taken upon those who reject Jesus as His Son and Savior.</li></ul><div>The hardness of the Jew's hearts was given an opportunity to change with Paul's preaching and the disciples' words. <b>By their transgression salvation has come to the Gentiles. </b>(Romans 11:11)</div><div>Christians have the Great Commission to <b>go and make disciples of all nations. (28:19)</b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div>Like in the parable, when the invitation was opened to all people to come to the banquet, heaven will be filled with guests of all nations.(verse10)</div><div><br /></div><div>Friend, you are invited to go with us believers to heaven, to spend eternity with the Savior. Have you accepted the invitation/salvation call? Have you experienced God's grace through faith in Jesus?</div><p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>LET IT GO</b></span></p><p><span>Thank You Father for eternal life through faith in Jesus.</span></p><p><span>Help others let go and let Jesus come into their heart.</span></p><p> </p>Linda @ Country Road Faithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13199111840068499023noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3868740780295758152.post-78911266501552051032024-02-21T08:46:00.116-06:002024-02-21T08:58:26.461-06:00Who Owns You?<p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>N.T.#248 "Who Owns You?"</b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Feb. 21, 2024 </b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Matthew 21-Part 8</b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>LET IT GLOW </b></span></p><p>Jesus gave the religious leaders, chief priests and elders, a second parable. A landowner planted a vineyard and left it to a foreman in charge and to work it. When it was time for the fruit, the owner sent his servants to collect, but they were beaten, stoned, and killed. Finally, the owner sent his son, thinking they would reverence him. Instead, they killed the son and desired to seize his inheritance.(verses 33-39)</p><p>Jesus asked the religious leaders what the owner would do to the foreman. What was their answer? He would destroy the wicked men and put another man in charge, giving him the fruits in their seasons. (verse 40-41)</p><p>Who are the min characters in this parable and who do they represent?</p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>The land owner is God;</li><li>the vineyard is Israel;</li><li>the farmers are the Jewish religious leaders;</li><li>the landowner's servants are the prophets and priests faithfully preached for God to Israel;</li><li>the son is Jesus;</li><li>the other farmers are the Gentiles. </li></ul><div>Jesus exposed the murderous plot of the religious leaders. (verse 45) </div><p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>LET IT GROW</b></span></p><p>God sent His own Son to reach us with His love. Jesus lived a perfect life, His words were Truth, and His sacrifice of love are all meant to cause us to listen and follow Jesus as Lord. Hew laid down His life for us. If we ignore God's gracious gift of His Son, we reject God Himself. Jesus is the stone that builders rejected.</p><p>Jesus is the cornerstone of the new building, the church. (Acts 4:11, 1Peter 2:7)</p><p>One truth can effect people in different ways. We can build on it or trip over it. At the Last Judgment, God's enemies will be crushed by the stone, Jesus. He offers mercy and forgiveness now,but promises judgment later.</p><p>Have you surrendered to Jesus as your Master, Savior?</p><p>Who owns you?</p><p><br /></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>LET IT GO</b></span></p><p>Lead us to do Your will Your way, Jesus.</p><p>We are Your servants, You are our Master.</p><p> </p>Linda @ Country Road Faithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13199111840068499023noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3868740780295758152.post-28616414868739007202024-02-20T10:08:00.141-06:002024-02-20T10:17:50.122-06:00Words or Actions<p> <span style="font-size: large;"><b>N.T.#247 "Words or Actions"</b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Feb. 20, 2024 </b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Matthew 21-Part 7</b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>LET IT GLOW</b></span></p><p>In verses 23-32, we read of the religious leaders, chief priests and elders, questioning Jesus about His authority. </p><p><b>By what authority doest thou these things? and who gave thee this authority? </b>(verse 23)</p><p>Who do You think You are? Previously, Jesus entered Jerusalem treated like a King of the Jews. Then He sent the money changers and thieves out of the Temple. Also, Jesus healed the blind and lame. Those chief priests and scribes saw the wonderful things Jesus did there the day before.</p><p>I wonder what Jesus was teaching when those religious guys confronted Him. Again, Jesus answered their question with a question-By what authority did John the Baptist baptize? Was John's authority from heaven or of human origin? </p><p>Now the crowds considered Joh to be a prophet. It was a no-win situation for those guys, so they answered that they did not know. (verse 27) They were not really interested the truth. If John's authority came from god, then they were condemning themselves for not receiving it. If they claimed John's authority came from men, human origin, then they would upset the people. </p><p>Jesus didn't back away or flee to Galilee. He threw the verbal punches. His parables penetrated the thick armor of His opponents' hypocrisy, exposing the evil of the scribes, Pharisees, and priests. Jesus stood His ground and didn't budge an inch before their belligerence.<b style="font-size: x-large;"> </b>He knew their wicked motives. If Jesus announced outright that His authority came from God, He would be playing right into their hands. Jesus never lied. Jesus skillfully dodged their attempts at entrapment.</p><p>Do you have relatives who like to argue the Bible? We can confront them with Scriptures and leave it at that. Pray the Holy spirit convicts them of sin and they believe in Jesus as Savior.</p><p><b style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></b></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>LET IT GROW </b></span></p><p>The first parable involved a man and his two sons. He asked the first son to go work in his vineyard. The son said he would not, but later repented and went. The second son said he would go, but did not. Which son did the father's will? The first did.</p><p>Look at Jesus' response: <b>That the publicans and the harlots go into the kingdom of God before you. </b> (verse 31)</p><p>The religious leaders condemned themselves. John had preached the way of righteousness and they believed him not. the tax collectors and prostitutes refused to obey God but later repented. Repentant sinners are more ready for the kingdom of God than disobedient religious leaders. The leaders claimed to follow God but didn't have the actions to back it up. Even seeing the tax collectors and prostitues repent and believe, the leaders did not change their minds. (verse 32)</p><p>Do we say amen and not apply the Bible's teachings, without hands and feet to back up our learnings? Do we serve our Heavenly Father obediently? Do we profess to believe but our life has no evidence?</p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>LET IT GO</b></span></p><p>Help us forgive others since You forgive us.</p><p>Help us love others because You love us when we are unlovely.</p><p>Help us give to meet needs of others for You meet our needs.</p>Linda @ Country Road Faithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13199111840068499023noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3868740780295758152.post-65090882653028033732024-02-19T09:18:00.000-06:002024-02-19T09:18:00.242-06:00Moving Mountains<p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>N.T.#247 "Moving Mountains"</b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Feb. 19, 2024 </b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Matthew 21-Part 7</b></span></p><p>And all things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive. (verse 22)</p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>LET IT GLOW</b></span></p><p>Friend, are you facing mountains or an impossible situation? What will you do? Is your faith in Jesus great enough so He fixes it? Read on to find out how it can be.</p><p>Jesus let Scripture have the last word with the unbelieving religious. He returned back to Bethany (verse 17) don't you think our Savior wanted a peaceful night before facing controversy again?</p><p>The next morning, on His way back to Jerusalem, Jesus paused a fig tree, looking for a snack, but it had no fruit to offer the Savior. What disappointment. Only leaves were on the tree. Then Jesus cursed the barren tree and it withered away. From a distance, the tree looked fruitful, but a closer exam revealed it fruitless.</p><p>What in the world? This was an illustration of Israel's spiritual condition, as well as their religious leaders. Micah 7:1-4 foretold what would happen to Israel. </p><p>Some 40 years later, Israel was unrepentant wickedness and refused to accept Jesus as their King and Messiah. so the Roman army conquered Jerusalem and destroyed the beautiful Temple mount, casting its stones into the valley of dead things.</p><p>Are we exhibiting the fruit of the Spirit? Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, gentleness, forgiveness, goodness, and self control should be evident in a believer's life. Is there one you need to work on, asking the Spirit's help?</p><p>What will we have to offer Jesus when we stand before Him one day? Will we be empty handed or have crowns of faithful service?<b style="font-size: x-large;"> </b></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>LET IT GROW</b></span></p><p>How could the disciples do likewise as Jesus did to the fig tree?</p><p><b>If you have faith, and doubt not, ye shall not only do this which is done to the fig tree, but also if ye shall say unto this mountain, Be thou removed, and be thou cast into the sea: it shall be done. </b>(verse 21)</p><p>Faith is required for mountain moving and tree withering. Jesus' name if powerful because He is powerful, all-knowing, and all-wise. If we pray according to God's will, there is no limit to what He can do. The request has to be in line with God's plan and purpose, though. (I am not a name it and claim it person.)</p><p>Whatsoever, believing, receive are key words in verse 22. Keep in mind, God does not grant requests that would hurt us or others or that would violate His own nature or will. It isn't a blank check. More than likely, our prayers will become in line with God's will as we grow stronger faith, then God is happy to grant them.</p><p>Hope, trust, keep believing God is in control. Pray for strength to do whatever and go through the valley with Him.</p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>LET IT GO</b></span> </p><p>All things are possible with You, Lord. May Your will be done in our life.</p><p>Fill us with the fruit of the Spirit so we can glorify You.</p><p>It is all about You.</p><p>Glory to God in the Highest!</p>Linda @ Country Road Faithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13199111840068499023noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3868740780295758152.post-56072845067217709942024-02-16T03:00:00.153-06:002024-02-16T03:00:00.139-06:00Reactions<p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>N.T.#246 "Reactions"</b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Feb. 16, 2024 </b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Matthew 21-Part 6</b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>LET IT GLOW </b></span></p><p>What wonderful things has Jesus done in your life recently? Thank God for provisions day-by-day. A sweet couple in our church brought chicken and noodle soup for us while I have been sick. Such love they show to others. You know, reactions reveal what is in our heart. How did people react to Jesus?</p><p>It had become a public bazaar in the Temple of worshiping God. The High Priest's family was making money off exchanging money and selling of doves. What extortion, profiting from their position! Jesus threw them out, proclaiming His house was called the house of prayer (Isa. 56:7), but they had made it a den of thieves. (verses 12-13) He wouldn't even allow anyone to carry merchandise through the Temple. (Mark 11:16) Did you notice that Jesus threw the tables and the seats, also? Yet He never sinned. More reading on this subject can be found in Jeremiah 7.</p><p>The rightful purpose of the Temple was the prayerful worship of God.</p><p>After that happened, what went on next?</p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Following the cleansing of the Temple, the blind and lame came to Jesus in the Temple and He healed them. (verse 14) Even after having righteous indignation, Jesus still had compassion on the sick. </li><li>The children were praising Jesus saying, <b>Hosanna to the Son of David. </b>(verse 15)</li><li>The chief priests and scribes saw the wonderful things that Jesus did, but they were sore displeased. Not only our Lord's popularity angering those religious leaders, but the children implied Jesus to be the Messiah.(Son of David).</li></ul><p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>LET IT GROW</b></span></p><p>Psalm 8:1-2 says, <b>Yahweh, our Lord, how magnificent is Your name throughout the earth!</b> <b>Because of Your adversaries, You have established a stronghold from the mouths of children and nursing infants to silence the enemy and avenger. </b></p><p>Had the scribes and chief priests not read this verse, that the young ones would perfect praise to Jesus?(verse 16)</p><p>Debating with those opposing Jesus, He let Scriptures have the last word. He had pointed out the things were not right with the religious and political hearts of Israel.</p><p>Then Jesus departed the same way He entered and returned to Bethany staying there. (verse 17)</p><p>Thus, the corrupt organized religion lacked purity of life and the power of God. (Falwell)</p><p>Did you see the two reactions to the healing of the blind and lame, which Jesus did? The children praised Him and the scribes and priests were displeased.</p><p><b>Displeased </b>means <i>indignant; greatly afflicted.</i></p><p><b>Indignant </b>means <i>anger aroused by something unworthy. </i>(<i>Webster's Dictionary</i>)</p><p>Are we praising Jesus? Are we teaching our children to praise Jesus, too? Do we see the wonderful things Jesus does in our life and around us? How do we react when Jesus does something special to another person?</p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>LET IT GO</b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> ...</span>of anger, jealousy, hate, displeasure, indignation.</p><p> ...and let Jesus fill us with the fruit of the Spirit.</p>Linda @ Country Road Faithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13199111840068499023noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3868740780295758152.post-7962685460643900342024-02-15T03:00:00.174-06:002024-02-15T03:00:00.137-06:00For Profit or Prayer?<p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>N.T.#245 "For Profit or Prayer?"</b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Feb. 15, 2024 </b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Matthew 21-Part 5 </b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>LET IT GLOW</b></span></p><p>It was a rather short trip between Bethany and the Golden Gate in Jerusalem. It would have taken Jesus less than an hour to make it, even riding on a little colt. He would return to the Mt. of Olives later. Those along the road that Sunday morning were taking an important journey that had the potential to seal their eternal destinies. </p><p>Where would we find ourself in that crowd? If we had been there, would we lay down our coat on the road as an act of worship and honor, follow Jesus, or find ourself staying outside the wall? Would we be curious and follow Jesus afar, avoiding the crowd? Or would we be part of the group saying "Hosanna in the highest?" Would we follow Jesus to the cross? Are we fighting our way through life, defending ourself, taking charge, or in total surrender to Jesus as our King? Is Jesus just some guy riding on a young donkey or is He who He claims to be-The Son of God Who takes away our sins?</p><p>[Resource: <i>Swindoll's Living Insights </i>]</p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>LET IT GROW </b></span></p><p>Then Jesus steps into the outer part of the Temple. What happened next?</p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>He cast out all them that sold and bought in the Temple.</li><li>Jesus threw the tables of the moneychangers (coin dealers).</li><li>Also, those who sold doves.</li></ul><div><b>And said unto them, It is written, My house shall be called the house of prayer; but ye have made it a den of thieves. </b>(verse 13)</div><div><br /></div><div>Jesus was quoting Isaiah 56:7. What a corrupt organized religion the Jews had. Jesus could not tolerate such a perversion of the Temple. Temple dues could be paid only in sacred coinage, and it was necessary to change one's money. the selling of doves was for sacrificial purposes. This exchange became a source of extortion for the High Priest's family who personally controlled it. In reality, it was a public bazaar. [<i>Liberty Bible Commentary</i>]</div><div><br /></div><div>In other words, the religious leaders were making a profit when making change for the travelers. I can understand that it would have been difficult to travel with an animal sacrifice or even a dove, keeping it spotless, but those guys went too far. The religious elite were conducting a religious circus and carnival. People came from all over the world to take part in the feasts and offer required sacrifices at the Temple.</div><div><br /></div><div>Kent Huges described the scene as a county fair and Stock Exchange all rolled into one! Merchants shouted from their stalls and the aroma of the livestock was present, pushy pilgrims jostled one another for position. Jesus drove out the profiteers and would not allow anyone to carry merchandise through the Temple. (Mark 11:16)</div><div><br /></div><div>Isaiah 57:7 d says, <b>for mine house shall be called an house of prayer for all people. </b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div>Jesus was not going to tolerate the gross sacrilege taking place in the Temple. He reached His limit. Righteous indignation came out, yet Jesus sinned not. Ephesians 4:26 says, <b>Be angry, and yet do not sin.</b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div>Summing this up, instead of a place focused on worship of the One True Living God, the Temple had become a place of materialism and commercialism. Yet those thieves were using it to rob the people and reap a financial reward.</div><div>How does our church look to others? Is it a house of prayer and worship of the Savior? Or is it a gathering place for businessmen?</div><p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>LET IT GO</b></span> </p><p>Is there anything we need to let go of in order to completely worship and serve the Risen Lord Jesus?</p><p>Are we using the church building for profit or for prayer?</p><p>Hosanna in the highest!</p>Linda @ Country Road Faithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13199111840068499023noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3868740780295758152.post-72758249026254300312024-02-14T03:00:00.144-06:002024-02-14T03:00:00.130-06:00Who is Jesus to You?<p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>N.T.#244 "Who is Jesus to You?"</b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Feb. 14, 2024 </b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Matthew 21-Part 4</b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>LET IT GLOW</b></span></p><p>I recall a preacher in my home church during my teen years would close the service by asking the congregation, "Who do you say Jesus is?"</p><p>Here comes Jesus, riding on a colt of a donkey. The disciples put their robes on it so the ride would be more comfortable. Christ could have summoned a cherub to carry Him (Ps. 18:10), but did not for he was lowly in heart. He came not in wrath to take vengeance the first time but will the second time Jesus comes.</p><p>People laid down their garments, cut palm branches and put them in front of Jesus, all signifying Christ is their King. (The Jews used palm tree branches during the feast of tabernacles.) Did you notice that He accepted their good-will? Is Christ your King? Have you laid down your all under His feet?</p><p>Did you notice that multitudes went before and followed Jesus and the disciples? What did they cry out?</p><p><b>Hosanna to the Son of David: Blessed is He that cometh in the name of the Lord; Hosanna in the highest. </b>(verse 9)</p><p>In the Greek language, <b>hosanna </b>means <i>oh save! An exlamation of adoration.</i></p><p>The crowd of believers were praising their Lord. Jesus Christ comes in the name of the Lord. He is our Mediator sent from the Father God. So His name is worthy of worship and praise.</p><p>Dear one, has Jesus come to you? Is He residing in your heart today? Ask Jesus to be your Savior and forgive your sins. He will dwell with you forever.</p><p>Are we blessing blessing Jesus? He blesses us so much in so may ways-life, breath, beat of our heart, provisions, family and friends, jobs, mercy and grace, etc.</p><p><br /></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>LET IT GROW</b></span></p><p>When Jesus arrived in Jerusalem, the city was moved to ask "Who is this?"<b style="font-size: x-large;"> </b></p><p>Most Jews did not acknowledge Jesus as their Messiah. The Holy One unknown in the holy city! </p><p>Psalm 24:8 answers: <b>Who is this King of glory? The LORD, strong and mighty, the LORD, mighty in battle. </b></p><p>Verse 10 answers, <b>The LORD of Hosts.</b></p><p>Friend, who do you say Jesus Christ is? Can you live and die with your decision? Are you ready to meet Him?</p><p>The people called Jesus just a prophet, but He is more!</p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>LET IT GO</b></span> </p><p>Hosanna in the Highest!</p><p>What a wonderful Savior is Jesus my Lord!</p><p>How gracious, forgiving, loving You are!</p><p>Please save the lost today.</p>Linda @ Country Road Faithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13199111840068499023noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3868740780295758152.post-53405484175101810582024-02-13T03:00:00.145-06:002024-02-13T03:00:00.127-06:00Are You Prepared?<p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>N.T.#243 </b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Feb. 13, 2024 "Are You Prepared?"</b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Matthew 21-Part 3</b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>LET IT GLOW</b></span></p><p>When I know we are taking a trip, I like to plan which clothes that I will take to wear. So I get the suitcase out a week ahead of time, do what laundry is needed, and start packing. My husband likes to plan out the roads we will take, some 6 months in advance. He loves the adventure. I like to be prepared. Jesus was preparing to take His last trip to Jerusalem for the last leg of His ministry.<b style="font-size: x-large;"> </b></p><p>Jesus had no opportunity to make arrangements for His transportation. So He sent two disciples to a precise location for the animals and the disposition of the owners. This reveals His divine omniscience, for He knew where to get the colt and who would be willing to let Him use it for His Triumphal Entry.</p><p>The Jews would have recxognized Jesus fulfilling of the messianic prophecy (Zech. 9:9 and Isaiah 62:11). Matthew is the only Gospel writer who mentions the mare donkey. All mention the young age of the donkey or state that no man had ever sat on him. The mare was brought along so the colt would cooperate. (I think Jesus' gentle touch would have been enough. Probably it was so the disciples could easily get the colt there.)</p><p>Did you notice the word <b>meek, </b>which means <i>mild, gentle, humble. </i></p><p>Earlier, Jesus described Himself as meek. (Matthew11:29: <b>Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me: for I am meek and lowly in heart.</b></p><p>If you are labored and heavy laden, in need of rest, Jesus will provide it. (Matt. 11:28) After all, His yoke is easy and His burden is light. (verse 30)</p><p>Friend, Jesus is the answer to your problems, upsetting situation, and nearly impossible circumstance. He will give strength to the weary and rest to the tired, tired from the battle.</p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>LET IT GROW</b></span></p><p>What closing events in our Lord's life do we see?</p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>The disciples obeyed Jesus and brought Him a colt, never ridden, for Him to ride upon for His entrance into Jerusalem. In a time of peace, kings rode on a donkey, but in a time of wr, the rode upon a horse.</li><li>The disciples laid their robes upon the colt to make it more comfortable riding down the hill.</li><li>A great multitude spread their garments along the path, while others cut branches of palm trees and spread them in front of Jesus. It was like rolling out the red carpet before our President.</li></ul>The King of the Jews was coming! The Jewish pilgrims were on their way to celebrate the Passover in Jerusalem. What a day to have been alive and experienced this!<div><br /></div><div>Dear one, have you prepared for the coming King Jesus? Have you laid down your old sinful self and your soul been washed in the blood of Jesus? Are you ready for Jesus' second coming? Do you know Him as your Savior and King of your life?<br /><p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>LET IT GO</b></span> </p><p>Let go of unbelief and believe Jesus is the Messiah, Savior, King of kings.</p><p>Let go of pride that blocks the way for Jesus to have His way in your heart.</p><p>Honor the Lord Jesus with your life today.</p></div>Linda @ Country Road Faithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13199111840068499023noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3868740780295758152.post-67985942390759050252024-02-12T03:00:00.119-06:002024-02-12T03:00:00.139-06:00Get Read, for the King is Coming!<p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>N.T. #242 "Get Ready, for the King is Coming!"</b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Feb. 12, 2024</b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Matthew 21-Part 2</b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>LET IT GLOW </b></span></p><p>Years ago we would have the revival preacher stay in our home that week. I would spend the previous week cleaning and cooking, getting ready for them. I am sure they prepared the messages before they came, too. Today, we read about Jesus getting ready for His final trip to Jerusalem during His earthly ministry. Read on.</p><p>Jesus is making His Triumphal Entry into Jerusalem soon. In many ways it is far from a triumph because Israel rejected Jesus as their Messiah. When the group arrived at Bethphage at the Mt. of Olives, Jesus sent 2 of His disciples on an errand. They were sent into the village where they would find a donkey and her colt. They were to untie them and bring them to Jesus. If anyone questioned the guys, they would be justified saying the Lord needed them. That shows us that there were believers in Jesus as the Messiah in and around Jerusalem. they could have become followers during the earlier Jerusalem ministry described by John. </p><p>Jesus' disciples obeyed and He saddled up, so to speak. (verses 6-7) </p><p><br /></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>LET IT GROW</b></span></p><p>Why would King Jesus enter Jerusalem riding on a little donkey? He is the King, the Messiah. Shouldn't Jesus be riding on a white horse with a purple robe like a king? It was the fulfillment of Zechariah 9:9:</p><p><b>Rejoice, O people of Zion. Shout in triumph, O people of Jerusalem! Look, your king is coming to you. He is righteous and victorious, yet He is humble, riding on a donkey-riding on a donkey's colt.</b></p><p>The prophet was looking forward some 500 years earlier. Jesus was preparing to ride into Jerusalem days before He was crucified as an atoning substitute for sinners and rose from the dead. When He returns, Jesus will again enter Jerusalem, but this time as a triumphant King to establish His Kingdom.</p><p>Remember those thousands of Jews coming to the Temple to observe the Passover. They would be able to see Jesus upon the hill coming down. did they make connection with what they saw and messianic prophecy of Zechariah?</p><p>Swindoll said the presence of the colt's mother beside Him would have been a clue that the rider was making some kind of statement. Jesus was deliberately claiming to be Jerusalem's King, God's anointed.</p><p>William Barclay said He entered in such a way as to focus the whole limelight upon himself and to occupy the center of the stage. Only in war did kings ride upon a horse: when they came in peace they came upon a donkey.</p><p>Don't you know it was a biter-sweet ride? Jesus knew what was coming for Him. He was not going to establish His kingship right then. That would come thousands of years later. His purpose was to bring salvation and redemption to Jesus and Gentiles who would believe Jesus to be the Son of God.</p><p>Are you a believer, friend? If so, are you helping people get ready for the coming of Jesus?</p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>LET IT GO</b></span> </p><p>Jesus, You are prince of Peace, Almighty God, Lord of lords and King of Kings, the Mesiah, Savior, Redeemer.</p><p>Help us let go and let You be...</p>Linda @ Country Road Faithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13199111840068499023noreply@blogger.com0