Always the case

I Corinthians 16:7c “…if the Lord permits.” God willing or If the Lord permits are identical thoughts every Christian continually has on his/her mind as life is lived.  We all make plans knowing if God wants us to go in another direction–that is the direction we go.  When we allow God to direct our lives we know all is well.  Who would you rather have in control–you or God? Have a great weekend.

Stand firm

I Corinthians 15:58 “Therefore, my dear brothers, stand firm.  Let nothing move you.  Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.” What an amazing verse.  My dear brothers–stand firm–let nothing move you—give yourselves fully—your labor is not in vain.  Each group of words is a dissertation of its own.  God’s absolutes are so wise and life saving they express truths for all eternity.  Total confidence in our God—TOTAL confidence in walking with our Savior is the wonderful privilege every Christian can not just enjoy, but cherishes.  How wonderful it is to have such a close, loving relationship with our Heavenly Father. 

Thank God

I Corinthians 15:57 “But thanks be to God!  He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” Any victory is pleasant at the very least.  There is celebration even over small victories.  Jesus has given you and me a reason to celebrate with the largest celebration possible.  He has conquered death.  Our lives have to be filled with a celebration that has jumping and rejoicing that would make any one watching comment–what is wrong with that guy!  Jesus conquered death!  That is cause for a phenomenal/fabulous/way over the top celebration!

The last enemy

I Corinthians 15:26 “The last enemy to be destroyed is death.” Jesus overcame even death through His resurrection.  You and I will experience death if this world does not end first.  After death we, because of the work of our Savior, will also experience a resurrection.  We will become spiritual, live with our God forever and enjoy the happiness we have never experienced before.  That is the greatest blessing which we are yet to receive.  Death, man’s greatest fear, has been smashed/destroyed/demolished because of our beloved Savior.  With faith we live in fear no more. A friend of mine has a prayer request:   I got laid off from my job last Friday and my last day is Thursday this week. I’m viewing this as a time of opportunity to seek the Lord’s will for my life.I would appreciate prayers that stand in agreement for God’s will for me. Thanks,Marty

Best news ever!

I Corinthians 15:20 “But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead, the first-fruits of those who have fallen asleep.” There is nothing more joyful than knowing our Savior was raised from the dead.  No gift you will ever receive will make you happier.  If Jesus had not risen our faith would be meaningless, BUT, He did rise so our faith is magnificent.  Our life on this earth has meaning and purpose and eternity in Heaven is guaranteed.  What better news can you hear on this Monday morning?