Godly Witnesses For Christ

Death of a Saint

Posted on May 6, 2014 by Tracy K

To us there is nothing worse than to lose someone who you are close to. When someone dies we are grieved because we know that we will never see them again in this lifetime. We miss them because they mean so much to us. They may be our mother, father, family or friend. We may question, why did this happen to them? They may have been older or younger than us, and we wonder why God would take them at this time.

When my father was in the hospital from having broken his hip. He quit breathing and we faced losing him. He had been dying for two months because he couldn’t breathe. He was on life support for part of the time. When he was in his room, he gasped for air and we questioned, Why? Why did this happen? Who was to blame? Was God punishing us for something that we had done? We sought God for two months asking for him to heal my dad. It took two months for God to answer us. It wasn’t that God didn’t hear us or care that we were grieving. He wanted us to call upon him in faith and to rely on his healing, not on things we could do.

To us dying is something that we do not want to face. Some might think that we have all the time in the world, but everyone has an appointment with death (Hebrews 9:27). God does not take your loved one to cause us sorrow, but that he wants to have him in his presence. Psalm 116:15 says, “Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints.”

One does not need to fear death, if they have received salvation of the Lord. If we believe on the Lord Jesus and have asked him into our heart, than we will have eternal life with him. That as sin hath reigned unto death, even so might grace reign through righteousness unto eternal life by Jesus Christ our Lord (Romans 5:21). We do not have to face uncertainty of death if we are Christians, because the Bible tells us that God will receive us into his presence. Heaven is more real than this earth and it is full of those that love God. Some of our loved ones that have died claim to see angels or Heaven —some claim to hear singing while on their death beds. Some have miraculously gotten better the day before they die while in the hospital.

The Bible says that he will give us a crown of life (Revelation 2:10). God tells us that we have nothing to fear in death, if we are part of God’s family. Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness (Isaiah 41:10). One day we will go to our home in the sky, because we are strangers on this earth.

If you have not accepted Christ, now is the time of salvation. Please ask him into your heart and he will save you.

Related scriptures:

John 5:24- Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that heareth my word, and believeth on him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life.

Psalm 23:4- Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.

Romans 5:12- Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned:

Romans 5:17- For if by one man’s offence death reigned by one; much more they which receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness shall reign in life by one, Jesus Christ.)

Romans 6:8-10- Now if we be dead with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with him: Knowing that Christ being raised from the dead dieth no more; death hath no more dominion over him. For in that he died, he died unto sin once: but in that he liveth, he liveth unto God.

Revelations 21:3-4- And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God. And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away.

John 14:1-3 Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.

Matthew 6:20,21- But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal: For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.

Hebrews 11:13-These all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off, and were persuaded of them, and embraced them, and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth.

Related post: Sin & Death – https://godlywitnesses.wordpress.com/2014/01/11/sin-death/

Does Life Exist After Death? – http://tracykauffman.blogspot.com/2012/11/does-life-exist-after-death.html

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged death, death of a saint, dieing, dying, fear, Heaven | 1 Comment

The Levitical Priesthood

Posted on May 4, 2014 by Tracy K

God set up the Levitical Priesthood to help with the service of the Tabernacle (Temple): such as offerings made by the Israelites to God. God set up Aaron to be the high priest over the children of Israel and for his sons to acts as ministers for the Lord. We know that all of Israel are descendants from the twelve sons of Jacob. Jacob’s third son was Levi, and Aaron was a fourth generation descendant of Levi. All of his male descendants were chosen by God to be priests forever; it was established by God as an eternal covenant. For the Lord thy God hath chosen him out of all thy tribes, to stand to minister in the name of the Lord, him and his sons for ever (Deut. 18:1,5). And they shall keep all the instruments of the tabernacle of the congregation, and the charge of the children of Israel, to do the service of the tabernacle (Numbers 3:8). The Levitical Priesthood traces through the three sons of Levi whose names are Gershon/Gershom,(Gershonites), Kohath (Kohathites) and Merari (Merarites). This covenant was established for all generations until Christ died on the cross and became our high priest.

Today, we as Christians are considered priest and Christ is our high priest. We do not have to confess our sins before a priest because we can go directly to the throne of grace, which is directly to Jesus Christ. Seeing then that we have a great high priest, that is passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our profession (Hebrews 4:14). 1 Timothy 2:5 says, For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus. Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ. But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light; (1 Peter 2:5,9).

Related scriptures:

Hebrews 2:17- Wherefore in all things it behoved him to be made like unto his brethren, that he might be a merciful and faithful high priest in things pertaining to God, to make reconciliation for the sins of the people.

Hebrews 8:1-Now of the things which we have spoken this is the sum: We have such an high priest, who is set on the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in the heavens.

Hebrews 9:11,12- But Christ being come an high priest of good things to come, by a greater and more perfect tabernacle, not made with hands, that is to say, not of this building;Neither by the blood of goats and calves, but by his own blood he entered in once into the holy place, having obtained eternal redemption for us.

Revelations 5:10- And hast made us unto our God kings and priests: and we shall reign on the earth.

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged bible, Christians, high priest, holy priesthood, Jesus Christ, levite priest, Levites, Levitical Priesthood, ministers of God, priest, studying the Bible | Leave a comment

Prayer- The Greatest Tool

Posted on April 24, 2014 by Tracy K

Prayer is the most powerful thing in a person’s life that can bring them closer to God. The best way to go to the Father is through your prayer life. Pray to him everyday. Pray often —several times a day. Pray without ceasing, which means continually. You can pray to God when you are at home —when you are at the store —when you are at work. A person doesn’t always need to close their eyes to pray.

God wants us to come to him —to call upon his name. How are you going to become closer to God, or become a friend of God, without talking to him? Do you talk to your friends everyday. I am talking about your close friends or family You might call them to ask for their advice, tell them good news or just to talk to them. You might call them because you enjoy their company. How are you able to communicate with them if you never call them or stop by.

Now imagine a friend that sticks closer to you than a brother. A person that you can always count on. A person that loves you unconditionally —expecting nothing in return. You might have a brother in this life that you are close with. You might argue or disagree with him about something, then he might get mad at you and not talk to you for days or weeks. He might be the perfect brother than never argues with you, but he has a family of his own. He might not have time to talk to you everyday.

Sometimes you are going to need someone to comfort you when no one else will. You have a Heavenly Father that is always there to comfort you and help you in time of need. We must learn to pray to build a close relationship with the Father so he can give us that comfort when we need it. There is not one person on earth that cares more for you than God. He knows your weaknesses and pain and wants to help you.

1 Peter 5:7 says, Casting all your cares upon him; for he careth for you. Jesus cared so much for your life that he laid down his own life in your place. John 15:13 says, Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.

Prayer can open great doors for you —doors that you don’t ask for. Sometimes God opens a door that can be a great blessing for you. Praying to the Father when you need help is the best choice you can make. He can help you with your finances. He can help you when you are in pain or sorrow. He can give comfort to those that are hurting, either physically or spiritually. Prayer gives us peace and an overwhelming comfort to our souls. It can calm our fears and help our faith in God.

There have been several days in my life that I was physically sick. All I could do was trust in God — to give my problems over to God. Doctors couldn’t help me —they couldn’t physically heal me —sometimes they couldn’t even tell me what was wrong. I know how much God loves me when he takes those sicknesses away.

See, a person must come to the place that they truly pray and ask God for help. He healed me so many times in my life. God never left me. He waited for me to come to him in prayer. When a person wants to talk to God, they must pray to him as if they were talking to him. Don’t say a traditional prayer that you got off the internet. Or a prayer that someone else gave you. Pray from within, from your own heart. Pray as long as you need to. Some might say a quick minute or two prayer. God might hear you, but that will not bring you to a close relationship with the Father.

When is the last time you ever prayer for at least an hour? If you haven’t ever prayed for an hour, then I suggest you give it a try. When I first got saved, I was fifteen years old. The preacher ask that question to the whole congregation. I’m sure many lowered their heads that day. I went home and set my clock so I could pray for the whole 60 minutes. It was difficult but I did it. I thought it was difficult because I didn’t fully understand the concept of prayer. I didn’t know I could prayer for others. So my prayer was simply me talking to God.

God wants us to come to him for help with anything. We can prayer when we are trying to make the right decisions about life, a new job, whether to buy a car, etc… Pray and ask God for his guidance. Don’t expect every answer to be what you want. Sometimes we might get an answer that we don’t like. Sometimes he chooses not to answer. He knows our heart and his unanswered prayer is really the answer. He doesn’t want to give us things that can harm us. He sees the future ahead. He knows when we shouldn’t do something. I thank God for unanswered prayers.

I remember praying for things in my life that I wanted. It took years later to understand why God didn’t give me my heart’s desire. I didn’t prayer for money or wealth but for something that I thought would make me happy. Years later, I seen what could have been my life and I am thankful that he answered with a “No.”

Realize who you are talking to when you pray. He is God not your puppet. He is in control not you. We must respect him as our God and King first. He is not simply a buddy to boss around. We need to be respectful of God and let him know that we honor him through our prayers.

God will teach us his word if we only ask him to. Have you ever read a passage from the Bible but didn’t understand what you were reading. Try praying about it. Ask for wisdom. God gives us wisdom where we can understand things that an unbeliever wouldn’t understand.

Ask yourself when you pray these questions. Is the answer you seek going to take you away from God. Is the answer you seek going to separate you from your Christian walk. For example: If you are wondering if you should start a new job, pray about it. Then consider whether the hours you will have to work will keep you out of church. If so, you might want to reconsider taking a new job. Money isn’t everything. Sometimes God gives us things to show us how much he loves us. Then sometimes God allows us to get nice things to teach us a lesson.

Prayer can help you become closer to God or help you become the person you need to be. Prayer can teach you things about the Bible —how to be a good mother or father —or show you who God really is. If you want to develop a bond with God, focus daily on things that you need to pray for. If you pray with sincerity, God hears your prayer. Honor God and give him thanks and glory. The more you pray, the more you will feel at ease. God is not there to harm you but there to listen. Prayer is powerful but we must claim it. If you pray only when you need something, then God might not answer your prayer. You must show God that you love him like he loves you. The more you pray, the closer you will become to God.

2 Chronicles 7:14 says, If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.

These verses I give you are of the Bible and they are true. In order for God to answer your prayers, you must be one of his. Pray and ask God if he will come into your heart because you want to serve him. Ask his to be Lord of your life, and he will forgive you of your sins. He will cast your sins as far as the east from the west, never to remember them again (Psalms 103:12).

You will never be sorry to be a child of God. God will stick closer to you than a brother and will always be there when you need him. You don’t have to make an appointment to see him. You don’t have to look for him at any time, for he is always there. when you need him. Just find a place by yourself and seek God with your whole heart. Call upon him and he will hear you.

If you want a closer relationship with the Father then first, repent of any un-confessed sin and examine your heart. Get rid of things in your life that affect your spiritual growth. Praise God during the times when you are at your highest and feel blessed, and worship him when you are at your lowest.

Related scriptures:

Matthew 6:8-10- Be not ye therefore like unto them: for your Father knoweth what things ye have need of, before ye ask him.After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.

1 Chronicles 4:10- And Jabez called on the God of Israel, saying, Oh that thou wouldest bless me indeed, and enlarge my coast, and that thine hand might be with me, and that thou wouldest keep me from evil, that it may not grieve me! And God granted him that which he requested.

Psalm 6:9-The Lord hath heard my supplication; the Lord will receive my prayer.

Proverbs 15:29-The Lord is far from the wicked: but he heareth the prayer of the righteous.

1 Samuel 2:1-And Hannah prayed, and said, My heart rejoiceth in the Lord, mine horn is exalted in the Lord: my mouth is enlarged over mine enemies; because I rejoice in thy salvation.

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged Christ, christian, health, Jesus, prayer, salvation | Leave a comment

Proof of God by Science

Posted on April 21, 2014 by Tracy K

There are so many atheist trying to disprove God by science but do not consider that science can prove his existence too. What is science? Science is the intellectual and practical activity encompassing the systematic study of the structure and behavior of the physical and natural world through observation and experiment.

My belief is much higher than any scientific study or observation because it comes from my own personal belief —but to the unbeliever I hope this might bring you to consider the truth of God’s existence.

First consider who tells us what science is. Science or the meaning of it is written by mans idea of what it is. Why should everyone on earth follow what one man or a small group of men said that science was. Now consider man himself. Man wrote the meaning of science did he not —but man himself is not eternal. Man lives only a short time on the earth and then dies. His life is but a vapor (James 4:14). Man cannot explain the whole meaning of science because it is ever-changing.

Encyclopedias tell us that “Science is both a body of knowledge and a process.” In school, science may sometimes seem like a collection of isolated and static facts listed in a textbook, but that’s only a small part of the story. Just as importantly, science is also a process of discovery that allows us to link isolated facts into coherent and comprehensive understandings of the natural world. (http://undsci.berkeley.edu/index.php)

Everything we see in our world proves Gods existence by the power and force of such things. Science proves God by natural events such as thunderstorms, tornadoes and earthquakes. In the last few years, these natural events have taken place in areas that shocked meterologist. Look at Hurricane Sandy. The storm turned west towards land and hit the New York/New Jersey region on October 29 rather than turning east and heading out to the open Atlantic as most hurricanes in this position did. Another example we can look at is the sun. The Sun is our main source of energy and it goes on and on for years. It gives off more energy in one second than mankind has produced from the beginning of creation. 109 earths could fit in the size of the sun. There is only one explanation. One can not begin to grasp the energy of the universe but was created by one supreme being —God.

Consider the complexity of DNA or deoxyribonucleic acid. DNA is the hereditary material found in humans and almost all other organisms. It can replicate, or make copies of itself and is found in every single cell. The cell itself is complex but carries on many different functions. Cells are the basic structural, functional and biological unit of all known living organisms. All cells contain the hereditary information necessary for regulating cell functions and for transmitting information to the next generation of cells (Wikipedia). The importance of the cell shows us that they are way too complex to have been created from nothing. They can replicate and compile together to form human beings. This was Gods design from the beginning. The Bible tells us in Jeremiah 1:5, “Before I formed thee in the belly I knew thee.” Creation of cells and DNA didn’t come from nothing but from something much higher than us.

The “father of microbiology” Louis Pasteur said that science could lead people back to God. He was a French chemist and microbiologist renowned for his discoveries of the principles of vaccination, microbial fermentation and pasteurization. In 1862, he was appointed professor of geology, physics, and chemistry at the École nationale supérieure des Beaux-Arts, the position which held until his resignation in 1867 (Wikipedia). His beliefs, “Absolute faith in God and in Eternity, and a conviction that the power for good given to us in this world will be continued beyond it.”

Consider this truth. Vice president Al Gore warned people about global warming in 2007. He said the North pole would be ice free by 2013 thus creating hysteria that the earth would be flooded by water. Since this never happened, Al Gore changed his views to say “Climate Change affects us” to cover his huge mistake. If it wasn’t for a God, this Global warming phenomena could have very well taken place. More than 2,500 scientists said that “Ice was melting at a rapid pace because of warmer temperatures and humans were causing it by pollution, industrialization and deforestation (National Geographic). Christians knew they didn’t have to worry because of God’s promise in Genesis 9:11 that he wouldn’t ever destroy the earth by water again. The latest satellite data shows that the Arctic Circle has more ice cover than in 2012 by 50 percent.

Years ago God warns us about those that try to disprove God by science. “O Timothy, keep that which is committed to thy trust, avoiding profane and vain babblings, and oppositions of science falsely so called:Which some professing have erred concerning the faith.” 1 Timothy 6:20,21.

God gave us instructions and knowledge of the universe and his existence in one book — the Bible. This book holds all the truths and keys to wisdom of the universe and can explain things that will happen in future events. No other book can do this. The Bible is the best selling book of all times. It has been interpreted into every language imaginable. It has been preserved through the years for our benefit. Try reading this post about the Bible. https://godlywitnesses.wordpress.com/2013/11/19/the-bible-gods-holy-word/

More proof:

Scientific proof video-

Related scriptures:

James 4:14-Whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away.

Genesis 9:11-And I will establish my covenant with you, neither shall all flesh be cut off any more by the waters of a flood; neither shall there any more be a flood to destroy the earth.

Happiness With God

Posted on April 21, 2014 by Tracy K

God created every thing for his pleasure; and those that love him and trust in him will be happy. Psalm 144:15 says, “Happy is that people, that is in such a case: yea, happy is that people, whose God is the Lord.” God’s people are happy because of his love and the things he gives us to enjoy. God created a beautiful world with a beautiful creation. Try looking at his artwork (landscapes) and some of the animals he created. I must say some will bring joy to your heart.

Animals have a funny way of making people smile. A growing body of evidence confirms the holistic health benefits people gain from animals, including social, mental, physical, psychological and emotional health (University of Queensland). “Studies have proven that the health benefits of animals can include a reduction in blood pressure, reduced risk of heart disease, increased sense of well-being and an increased feeling of connectedness to our community” (Maggie O’Haire).

If you ever find yourself in a place where you think there is no hope —if you are miserable and don’t see any point in living, let me tell you there is a better way. Sometimes the trials of this life will bring us down. Sometimes sickness, pain, money troubles, the trials of life or the death of our loved ones weigh us down with grief. Let me tell you that if you trust in the Lord, he will bring you out of your sorrow. He can give you that peace that you need. He will bring you more joy than you can ever imagine. Therefore you will can have joy in knowing God will take care of you.

The Bible tells us, “A merry heart doeth good like a medicine (Proverbs 17:22). As a nurse, I have discovered that laughing will make people feel better and help them with their pain. So try to find humor in life. Look at things that will make you laugh and bring you joy.

God will provide for your needs if you trust in him. He will give you comfort and the peace you need if you rely on him. God wants his children to be happy and to rejoice, not to be burdened with sorrow. Psalm 28:7 says, “The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusted in him, and I am helped: therefore my heart greatly rejoiceth; and with my song will I praise him.”

Funny Animals Video- (Thanks to Youtube for this video)

Related scriptures:

Proverbs 3:13-Happy is the man that findeth wisdom, and the man that getteth understanding.

Proverbs 16:20-He that handleth a matter wisely shall find good: and whoso trusteth in the Lord, happy is he.

Genesis 1:31-And God saw every thing that he had made, and, behold, it was very good.

Psalms 127:4,5- As arrows are in the hand of a mighty man; so are children of the youth.Happy is the man that hath his quiver full of them: they shall not be ashamed, but they shall speak with the enemies in the gate.

Psalm 35:27-Let them shout for joy, and be glad, that favour my righteous cause: yea, let them say continually, Let the Lord be magnified, which hath pleasure in the prosperity of his servant.

Psalm 149:4- For the Lord taketh pleasure in his people: he will beautify the meek with salvation.

Philippians 2:13-For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure.

Isaiah 45:18- For thus saith the Lord that created the heavens; God himself that formed the earth and made it; he hath established it, he created it not in vain, he formed it to be inhabited: I am the Lord; and there is none else.

Psalm 146:5-Happy is he that hath the God of Jacob for his help, whose hope is in the Lord his God:

Proverbs 15:13-A merry heart maketh a cheerful countenance: but by sorrow of the heart the spirit is broken.

1 Peter 4:14-If ye be reproached for the name of Christ, happy are ye; for the spirit of glory and of God resteth upon you: on their part he is evil spoken of, but on your part he is glorified.

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged animals, creation, enjoy, God, happiness, happy, joy, pleasure | Leave a comment

Jesus Has Risen

Posted on April 18, 2014 by Tracy K

Easter Sunday is a Christian holiday celebrating the resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ from the grave. The significance of this is that Jesus is alive and that we serve a risen Savior. He is as real as you and me. He was crucified on the cross, buried and arose the third day for our sins. He became our sacrifice when he went to the cross. After three days he arose from the grace. This proves that Jesus was God’s son.

Jesus paid the penalty for our sin when he died in our place; so that whoever believes in him might have eternal life. John 3:16 says, “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”

Jesus told his disciples that he must go to the Father but one day he will return to receive us unto himself. John 14:3 says, “And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.” You must receive Jesus as your Savior or you will miss his second coming.

If you are ready to accept Jesus as your Savior then all you have to do is go to him in prayer. If you don’t know what to say when you pray then you can use this prayer as a model prayer, but you must pray from your heart. Jesus isn’t looking for an elegant prayer but a heart-felt prayer.

Lord Jesus, I humbly come before you to ask for your forgiveness for my sins. I believe you came to this earth, died and arose the third day. I believe you died for the sins of the world including mine. I ask you to be my Savior and come into my heart. Please accept me into your family and make me your son. In Jesus name I pray. Amen

If you have accepted Jesus into your heart, we want to hear from you. Please use the above contact link. We can pray for you or answer any questions you may have.

Related Scriptures:

Luke 23:45-56And when Jesus had cried with a loud voice, he said, Father, into thy hands I commend my spirit: and having said thus, he gave up the ghost.Now when the centurion saw what was done, he glorified God, saying, Certainly this was a righteous man.And all the people that came together to that sight, beholding the things which were done, smote their breasts, and returned.And all his acquaintance, and the women that followed him from Galilee, stood afar off, beholding these things.And, behold, there was a man named Joseph, a counsellor; and he was a good man, and a just:(The same had not consented to the counsel and deed of them;) he was of Arimathaea, a city of the Jews: who also himself waited for the kingdom of God.This man went unto Pilate, and begged the body of Jesus.And he took it down, and wrapped it in linen, and laid it in a sepulchre that was hewn in stone, wherein never man before was laid.And that day was the preparation, and the sabbath drew on.And the women also, which came with him from Galilee, followed after, and beheld the sepulchre, and how his body was laid.And they returned, and prepared spices and ointments; and rested the sabbath day according to the commandment. Luke 24:1-7- Now upon the first day of the week, very early in the morning, they came unto the sepulchre, bringing the spices which they had prepared, and certain others with them.And they found the stone rolled away from the sepulchre.And they entered in, and found not the body of the Lord Jesus.And it came to pass, as they were much perplexed thereabout, behold, two men stood by them in shining garments:And as they were afraid, and bowed down their faces to the earth, they said unto them, Why seek ye the living among the dead?He is not here, but is risen: remember how he spake unto you when he was yet in Galilee,Saying, The Son of man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men, and be crucified, and the third day rise again.

Matthew 27:53-And came out of the graves after his resurrection, and went into the holy city, and appeared unto many.Now when the centurion, and they that were with him, watching Jesus, saw the earthquake, and those things that were done, they feared greatly, saying, Truly this was the Son of God.

Passover- Feast of Unleavened Bread

Posted on April 8, 2014 by Tracy K

Passover is a Jewish holiday in March or April that celebrates the freeing of the Jews from slavery in Egypt. This time commemorates the liberation of the Hebrews from slavery in Egypt. Before sending a plague to destroy the firstborn of the Egyptians, God instructed Moses to tell the Israelites to place a special mark (blood) above their doors as a signal for the angel of death to pass over (i.e., spare the residents). The festival of Passover begins on the 15th and ends on the 22nd (in Israel, the 21st) day of the month of Nisan (March or April). During Passover only unleavened bread may be eaten, symbolizing the Hebrews’ suffering in bondage and the haste with which they left Egypt. (Merriam Webster Dictionary)

In Exodus 13:4-10 and 23:14, we know God told the people of Israel to keep the feast of unleavened bread in the month Abib. This day God brought them out of bondage from the Egyptians. It was for a sign unto them and a memorial that the Lord’s law should be observed and the would remember to keep this feast yearly (Exodus 13:9,10).

Why do we as children of God not have to eat the feast of unleavened bread and keep the Passover? When Jesus died on the cross, he became our sacrifice –the lamb without spot or blemish. 1 Corinthians 5:7 says, “Purge out therefore the old leaven, that ye may be a new lump, as ye are unleavened. For even Christ our passover is sacrificed for us.” Read this post to clarify this: Saved by the Blood of Jesus.

Related scriptures:
Mark 14:1-After two days was the feast of the passover, and of unleavened bread: and the chief priests and the scribes sought how they might take him by craft, and put him to death.

Mark 14:12-And the first day of unleavened bread, when they killed the passover, his disciples said unto him, Where wilt thou that we go and prepare that thou mayest eat the passover?And he sendeth forth two of his disciples, and saith unto them, Go ye into the city, and there shall meet you a man bearing a pitcher of water: follow him.And wheresoever he shall go in, say ye to the goodman of the house, The Master saith, Where is the guestchamber, where I shall eat the passover with my disciples?And he will shew you a large upper room furnished and prepared: there make ready for us.And his disciples went forth, and came into the city, and found as he had said unto them: and they made ready the passover.

Exodus 13:4-10 -This day came ye out in the month Abib.And it shall be when the Lord shall bring thee into the land of the Canaanites, and the Hittites, and the Amorites, and the Hivites, and the Jebusites, which he sware unto thy fathers to give thee, a land flowing with milk and honey, that thou shalt keep this service in this month.Seven days thou shalt eat unleavened bread, and in the seventh day shall be a feast to the Lord.Unleavened bread shall be eaten seven days; and there shall no leavened bread be seen with thee, neither shall there be leaven seen with thee in all thy quarters.And thou shalt shew thy son in that day, saying, This is done because of that which the Lord did unto me when I came forth out of Egypt.And it shall be for a sign unto thee upon thine hand, and for a memorial between thine eyes, that the Lord‘s law may be in thy mouth: for with a strong hand hath the Lord brought thee out of Egypt.Thou shalt therefore keep this ordinance in his season from year to year.

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged blood of Jesus, feast of unleavened bread, Israelites, Jesus, lamb, ordinance, Passover, sacrifice | Leave a comment

What is Palm Sunday

Posted on April 7, 2014 by Tracy K

On Palm Sunday Christians celebrate the triumphal entry of Jesus Christ into Jerusalem, the week before his death and resurrection. For some Christian churches, Palm Sunday is referred to as “Passion Sunday,” marks the beginning of Holy Week, which concludes on Easter Sunday.

The Bible reveals that when Jesus entered Jerusalem, the crowds greeted him by waving palm branches and covering his path with palm branches. Immediately following this great time of celebration in the ministry of Jesus, he begins his journey to the cross (About.com).

Jesus sent two disciples ahead to the village of Bethphage, about a mile away from the city at the foot of the Mount of Olives. He told them to look for a donkey tied by a house, with its unbroken colt next to it. Jesus instructed the disciples to tell the owners of the animal that “The Lord has need of it.”

When his disciples found the donkey, they brought it and its colt to Jesus and placed their garments on the colt. Jesus sat on the young donkey and slowly, humbly, made his triumphal entry into Jerusalem. In his path, people threw their clothes on the ground and put palm branches on the road before him. Others waved palm branches in the air. Some cried, Hosanna: Blessed is the King of Israel that cometh in the name of the Lord (John 12:13).

Related scriptures:

Luke 19:29-42 –And it came to pass, when he was come nigh to Bethphage and Bethany, at the mount called the mount of Olives, he sent two of his disciples,Saying, Go ye into the village over against you; in the which at your entering ye shall find a colt tied, whereon yet never man sat: loose him, and bring him hither.And if any man ask you, Why do ye loose him? thus shall ye say unto him, Because the Lord hath need of him.And they that were sent went their way, and found even as he had said unto them.And as they were loosing the colt, the owners thereof said unto them, Why loose ye the colt?And they said, The Lord hath need of him.And they brought him to Jesus: and they cast their garments upon the colt, and they set Jesus thereon.And as he went, they spread their clothes in the way.And when he was come nigh, even now at the descent of the mount of Olives, the whole multitude of the disciples began to rejoice and praise God with a loud voice for all the mighty works that they had seen;Saying, Blessed be the King that cometh in the name of the Lord: peace in heaven, and glory in the highest.And some of the Pharisees from among the multitude said unto him, Master, rebuke thy disciples.And he answered and said unto them, I tell you that, if these should hold their peace, the stones would immediately cry out.And when he was come near, he beheld the city, and wept over it,Saying, If thou hadst known, even thou, at least in this thy day, the things which belong unto thy peace! but now they are hid from thine eyes.

John 12:12-15 –On the next day much people that were come to the feast, when they heard that Jesus was coming to Jerusalem,Took branches of palm trees, and went forth to meet him, and cried, Hosanna: Blessed is the King of Israel that cometh in the name of the Lord.And Jesus, when he had found a young ass, sat thereon; as it is written,Fear not, daughter of Sion: behold, thy King cometh, sitting on an ass’s colt.

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged bible, celebration, Christ, Easter, Jesus, palm sunday, salvation, Spiritual | 1 Comment

Humility is Before Honor

Posted on April 3, 2014 by Tracy K

Humility is a quality of being modest, lacking pretense, not thinking oneself is superior to others. Some look at humility as being timid and lacking self esteem but it is not. It is being an honorable person because you do not have to be the one who wins an argument. You don’t have to have people praising your name. You know it is more important to serve someone other than yourself.

Humility is an honorable trait that can help everyone in all aspects of their lives. Without humility it is impossible to love others the way they should be loved. God expects us to have humility and tells us this trait is above honor. Proverbs 15:33 says, “The fear of the Lord is the instruction of wisdom; and before honour is humility.” God rewards those that are humble and those that serve him. Proverbs 22:4 says, “By humility and the fear of the Lord are riches, and honour, and life.”

Christians should set an example for the world. If we are prideful and boastful we represent the world and not Christ. Yes, I said we represent the world. Not one time in the Bible did it say Jesus was prideful and boastful. He loved others the way we should. He cared about others because he went to the cross for the whole world. He didn’t decide who he was going to die for. He died for everyone, including the ones who nailed him to the cross.

Now I am going to give you something to think about. A person is made fun of at school. He is very skinny and doesn’t have any friends. A group of bullies go up to this person and start screaming at him, calling him names. Would you say it takes humility to keep your mouth shut when others are mocking you or making fun of you? Would you think that person was weak? What would you do in this situation?

Now look at what Jesus did when others screamed at him, mocking him and hitting him. Isaiah 53:7 says, “he opened not his mouth.” He didn’t fight back but he remained humble. Jesus is our example to follow.

Related Scriptures:

Philippians 2:8-And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.

James 4:6- God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble.

Isaiah 53:7- He was oppressed, and he was afflicted, yet he opened not his mouth: he is brought as a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before her shearers is dumb, so he openeth not his mouth.

Luke 22:63,64-And the men that held Jesus mocked him, and smote him.And when they had blindfolded him, they struck him on the face, and asked him, saying, Prophesy, who is it that smote thee?

1 Peter 5:5- Likewise, ye younger, submit yourselves unto the elder. Yea, all of you be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble.

James 4:6-But he giveth more grace. Wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble.

1 Peter 5:5-Likewise, ye younger, submit yourselves unto the elder. Yea, all of you be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble.

1 Peter 5:6-Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time:

Colossians 3:12-Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering;

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged bible, children of God, christian, Church, Grace, honor, humble, humility, Jesus, love, Spiritual | 1 Comment

Dishonoring the House of God

Posted on March 31, 2014 by Tracy K

I have recently run across different websites or video where people are disrespecting the house of God. By appearance they seem to be a regular church, until you notice someone running down the aisle and jumping into the baptistry. It is a shame for anyone to dishonor the church by mockery. What this means is that God set up specific criteria for the church; including ways to behave in church. He didn’t say the church was to conform to the world but that those that attended should behave decently.

God expects us to behave in his house for it is holy. First thing that we should know is that “all things be done decently and in order,” (1 Corinthians 14:40). 1Timothy 3:15 says, “But if I tarry long, that thou mayest know how thou oughtest to behave thyself in the house of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth.”

So what happens if some don’t act decently. 1 Peter 4:17 says, “For the time is come that judgment must begin at the house of God.” 1 Corinthians 11:16 warns against those that are contentious. Contentious means likely to cause disagreement or argument or quarreling. The house of God should be holy without mockers, deceivers or those that cause contentions. They should not be allowed to continue in the church if they don’t change their evil ways and honor the house of God.

No where in the Bible does it say that the church is for the non-believer. The church was established for the believer of Christ. Peter tells the elders of the church, “Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof, not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind;Neither as being lords over God’s heritage, but being examples to the flock (1 Peter 5:2,3).

The house of God should be a house of prayer because it belongs to the Lord. Acts 20:28 says, “Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood.” Matthew 21:13 says, “It is written, My house shall be called the house of prayer, not a den of thieves.”

God said those that have vanity and divine lies shouldn’t be allowed in his assembly or his house. Ezekiel 13:9 says, “And mine hand shall be upon the prophets that see vanity, and that divine lies: they shall not be in the assembly of my people, neither shall they be written in the writing of the house of Israel, neither shall they enter into the land of Israel; and ye shall know that I am the Lord God.”

Vanity is: the quality of people who have too much pride in their own appearance, abilities, achievements, etc. : the quality of being vain: something such as a belief or a way of behaving.

Other related scriptures:

2 Chronicles 6:18- But will God in very deed dwell with men on the earth? behold, heaven and the heaven of heavens cannot contain thee; how much less this house which I have built!

2 Chronicles 24:18-And they left the house of the Lord God of their fathers, and served groves and idols: and wrath came upon Judah and Jerusalem for this their trespass.

2 Chronicles 29:5-And said unto them, Hear me, ye Levites, sanctify now yourselves, and sanctify the house of the Lord God of your fathers, and carry forth the filthiness out of the holy place.

2 Chronicles 31:21-And in every work that he began in the service of the house of God, and in the law, and in the commandments, to seek his God, he did it with all his heart, and prospered.

Psalm 55:14-We took sweet counsel together, and walked unto the house of God in company.

Acts 12:5-Peter therefore was kept in prison: but prayer was made without ceasing of the church unto God for him.

Psalm 92:13-Those that be planted in the house of the Lord shall flourish in the courts of our God.

Psalm 135:2,3-Ye that stand in the house of the Lord, in the courts of the house of our God.Praise the Lord; for the Lord is good: sing praises unto his name; for it is pleasant.

Joel 1:14-Sanctify ye a fast, call a solemn assembly, gather the elders and all the inhabitants of the land into the house of the Lord your God, and cry unto the Lord,

Ezekiel 20:40-For in mine holy mountain, in the mountain of the height of Israel, saith the Lord God, there shall all the house of Israel, all of them in the land, serve me: there will I accept them, and there will I require your offerings, and the firstfruits of your oblations, with all your holy things.

Acts 2:47-Praising God, and having favour with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved.

Acts 14:23-And when they had ordained them elders in every church, and had prayed with fasting, they commended them to the Lord, on whom they believed.

Acts 11:26-And when he had found him, he brought him unto Antioch. And it came to pass, that a whole year they assembled themselves with the church, and taught much people. And the disciples were called Christians first in Antioch.

Isaiah 56:7-Even them will I bring to my holy mountain, and make them joyful in my house of prayer: their burnt offerings and their sacrifices shall be accepted upon mine altar; for mine house shall be called an house of prayer for all people.

2 Chronicles 29:5-And said unto them, Hear me, ye Levites, sanctify now yourselves, and sanctify the house of the Lord God of your fathers, and carry forth the filthiness out of the holy place.