PSALM Sermons – Mircheal Jones

The character of the godly man is consistent, dependable, settled, and dedicated to God’s purpose by determination and conviction. He has found God and he is satisfied but he realizes that “Still waters stagnate” and he wants to constantly be growing in the ways and will of God.

THOSE WHO PROSPER:

1. Separated from World- 1 Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful.

2. Saturated by Word- 2 But his delight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night. Scripture- Memorization, Meditation, and Application,

3. Situated by the Water (Drink- Holy Spirit. Cleanse- Word)-3 And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper.

THOSE WHO PERISH:

1. Their Character is unstable: 4 The ungodly are not so: but are like the chaff which the wind driveth away.

2. Their Condemnation is unfailing: 5 Therefore the ungodly shall not stand in the judgment, nor sinners in the congregation of the righteous.

3. Their Contrast is easily seen by God: 6 For the LORD knoweth the way of the righteous: but the way of the ungodly shall perish. Sinners act like sinners but Saints must always act like Saints

Psalm 01: WHERE DO YOU STAND?

There are many views of Revival:

1) Another date in my already stress filled schedule

2) A Hope that the Evangelist will be good enough until many people will come to our services (and eventually our church) and we can brag in the community about our growth.

3) A Desire for Children to stop their wayward ways and for Husbands to begin to do right.

4) A hunger for God to work in your life and the life of those around you.

We are going to use a single Psalm as our Text during this week of Revival- Psalm 1-

Psalm means “A song for plucked Instrument” in Greek and “Praise” in Hebrew.

The 150 Psalms are divided into 5 books. The Longest Chapter (119), the Shortest Chapter (117), and the Middle verse (118:8- Better to put trust in God than man) are in the Psalms. They deal with all the human emotions and discuss such subjects as Praise, Prayer, Promises, Penance, Provocation, and Personal Needs.

Psalm 1:1 “Where do YOU Stand?”

Growth: Needs Desire, Determination, Divine Cooperation (Unless God build, labor in vain- 127:1)

Church Stands:

Must have Consistent Practices: 1 Thess 5:23-28

23-24 Must Live Godly Lives

25- Must Pray for Spiritual Leaders

26- Must have Friendly People

27- Must Study the Word of God

28- Must appropriate the Grace of God for your life (Saving Grace, Sustaining Grace, Sufficient)

Personal Stands:(Psa 1:1) Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful.

A) Walk Not in counsel of ungodly

B) Standeth in the Way of Sinners

C) Sitteth in the Seat of the Scornful

Example of Lot- Listened to counsel of Family about Sodom, Became a part of their society, Sat in their counsel – All American Success Story that ends like a lot of “all American” success stories (Lost, Family, Fortune, Relationship with God). (Example of Larry- Had it made but one hit of Cocaine led him to addiction and cost him his family, his job, and his friends)

Where do YOU stand in your relationship with God?

When is the last time you did something for the first time for God?

When words, thoughts, actions are exposed- What will it look like?

Are you ready to meet God?

Psalm 01:1 3 OBEYING THE WORD

Psa 1:1 3 Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful. 2 But his delight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night. 3 And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper.

These verses promise 3 things to the man who lives by the law:

PLEASURES- “Blessed”

PRODUCTIVITY- “Tree by water”

PROSPERITY- “Whatsoever he doeth shall prosper”

These seem “abstract” principles many times, however. What are some real down to earth RESULTS OF OBEYING THE WORD:

A CLEAN LIFE: Psa 119:9 Wherewithal shall a young man cleanse his way? by taking heed thereto according to thy word. The Word will keep you from sin or sin will keep you from the word. Find a Verse that helps live a clean life- Prov 12:19 The lip of truth shall be established for ever: but a lying tongue is but for a moment.
VICTORY OVER SIN: Psa 119:11 Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee. Used to defeat Temptations of Satan. Find a verse that helps gain victory over sin- 1 Sam 30:6 And David was greatly distressed; for the people spake of stoning him, because the soul of all the people was grieved, every man for his sons and for his daughters: but David encouraged himself in the LORD his God.
ANSWERS FOR CRITICS: Psa 119:42 So shall I have wherewith to answer him that reproacheth me: for I trust in thy word. Confidence comes from Faith; Faith comes from the Word. Find a verse that answers the criticism about serving God instead of enjoying the pleasures of sin- Heb 11:26 Esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures in Egypt: for he had respect unto the recompense of the reward.
A DEEPER UNDERSTANDING OF LIFE: Psa 119:104 Through thy precepts I get understanding: therefore I hate every false way. God has made foolish the wisdom of this world. Find a verse that shows how God’s way of looking at things is best-Phil 1:21 For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.
GUIDANCE FOR LIFE: Psa 119:105 Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path. God has a “Path of life” for each person. The greatest joy in your life is finding and walking that path. Share a verse that God has used to guide your life-Mark 9:35 If any man desire to be first, the same shall be last of all, and servant of all.
PEACE IN LIFE: Psa 119:165 Great peace have they which love thy law: and nothing shall offend them. When we build on the rock we can stand the storms. Find a verse that shows how God’s word produces Peace in life. Isa 26:3 Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee.

Find a verse to memorize in the coming week- 1 John 5:4

Psalm 01:1 Counsel of the Ungodly

Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful. But his delight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night. And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper. The ungodly are not so: but are like the chaff which the wind driveth away. Therefore the ungodly shall not stand in the judgment, nor sinners in the congregation of the righteous. For the LORD knoweth the way of the righteous: but the way of the ungodly shall perish (Psalms 1:1-6).

WALKING IN THE COUNSEL OF THE UNGODLY:

1) Lot in Sodom- Lost fame, fortune, family

2) Peter at Fire- Lost testimony

3) Rehoboam – The Counsel of the young men caused him to split a Nation

For by wise counsel thou shalt make thy war: and in multitude of counsellors there is safety. (Proverbs 24:6).

Delight in the Law of the Lord

Divine Counsel

Divine Companions

Diving conversation

You are not trying to “build a Church”- Jesus said He would build the Church (Matt 16:18). Your objective should be to have a Healthy Body of believers who are constantly connected to the vine so fruit can be produced. A healthy body of believers will grow.

You will never be great as long as you are satisfied being good.

Psalm 1:1-3 THE IMPACT OF A SINNER’S LIFE

Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them (Romans 16:17).

Their impact on their COMPANIONS- Enter not into the path of the wicked, and go not in the way of evil men. Avoid it, pass not by it, turn from it, and pass away (Proverbs 4:14-15).

Their Impact on their CHILDREN- Rapture

Their Impact on the KINGDOM of God- Missed Tithes, Talents, Testimony

Your Non repentant Heart grieves God- For he is our God; and we are the people of his pasture, and the sheep of his hand. To day if ye will hear his voice, Harden not your heart, as in the provocation, and as in the day of temptation in the wilderness: When your fathers tempted me, proved me, and saw my work. Forty years long was I grieved with this generation, and said, It is a people that do err in their heart, and they have not known my ways: Unto whom I sware in my wrath that they should not enter into my rest (Psalms 95:7-11). (God was sad but your hard heart made Him mad) {Initially God is sad over a nation’s rebellion but that continued rebellion makes God mad and that is bad- Forty years long was I grieved with this generation, and said, It is a people that do err in their heart, and they have not known my ways: Unto whom I sware in my wrath that they should not enter into my rest (Psalms 95:10-11).

Remember when you make a deal with the devil he is a liar and the father of it (John 8:44).

Psalm 02:12 KISS THE KING

Kiss the Son, lest he be angry, and ye perish from the way, when his wrath is kindled but a little. Blessed are all they that put their trust in him. (Psa 2:12)

A Kiss is considered a very private, very personal exchange between two people. It is much more than “swapping spit”!! as one of our men says. It implies concern and commitment. “Kisses” are mentioned numerous times in the Bible and we’re going to look at several implications from Kisses before we look at the command of our verse, “Kiss the King, lest he be angry”.

I. KISS OF LOVE: Let him kiss me with the kisses of his mouth: for thy love is better than wine (Song 1:2). Babies are kissed thousands of times by everyone who gets close to them. It used to means something special when a Boy and Girl kissed on a date (Now, evidently, everyone is expected to kiss every time, all the time).

Husbands and wives generally have at least two kinds of kisses; One is the “peck” of “you’re important but I really don’t have time for you right now” and the other is the Kiss of love and loving (Which is the one that’s “better than wine”).

Let me mention also that every parent should kiss or hug their child often enough that the child will feel loved and appreciated.

II. KISS OF BETRAYAL:

A. Most Famous Betrayal Kiss- Judas kissing Jesus: Now he that betrayed him gave them a sign, saying, Whomsoever I shall kiss, that same is he: hold him fast (Mat 26:48). Some people USE other people while claiming to love them. People are not juice boxes that you suck the juice out of and then throw away.

B. Jacob betraying his father for the Blessing: And his father Isaac said unto him, Come near now, and kiss me, my son (Gen 27:26). Jacob had already bought the Birth Right and now he was stealing the Blessing. People come to me regularly saying they love the Lord; while they mean they expect the Church to support them. A kiss whose only purpose is to get instead of give has the wrong attitude.

C. Where we get our term “Back Stabber” from. When Joab kissed Amasa and then stabbed him: And Joab said to Amasa, Art thou in health, my brother? And Joab took Amasa by the beard with the right hand to kiss him. But Amasa took no heed to the sword that was in Joab’s hand: so he smote him therewith in the fifth rib, and shed out his bowels to the ground, and struck him not again; and he died. (2 Sam 20:9-10).

All of these people Kissed with their mouth and not with their mind! They wanted to give the APPEARANCE OF LOVE but they had different motives in mind. I think that’s what dealing with a prostitute would be like; lust without any love (and, therefore, no real satisfaction). Isn’t that the way some people treat God? They bring their bodies to church but keep their mind and love somewhere else; and then wonder why the Church service is not meeting their needs.

III. KISS OF SERVICE: Thou gavest me no kiss: but this woman since the time I came in hath not ceased to kiss my feet (Luke 7:45). We hear people use the expression “Kiss my foot” all the time. For them it is a term of contempt; for us it is a method of service. It means we are willing to show our love thru great sacrifice; Caring for the Sick, Helping the Hurting, giving our Self as well as our substance.

Sometimes the person you’re kissing has “onions on their breath” and the kiss is not as pleasant as it could be. In the same way, it would be nice if no one needed our help or concern except when it was convenient to us. Seldom is this the case however. Sometimes the only way to serve is to “kiss the feet”, but, remember, Jesus said that if any man desire to be first, the same shall be last of all, and servant of all (Mark 9:35).

IV. KISS OF GREETING: I’m just going to mention this in passing because the Bible mentions it so much. We shake hands today instead of kiss one another on the cheek but it refers to that act of friendliness that shows other people we’re glad they’re there. Salute one another with an holy kiss. The churches of Christ salute you. (Rom 16:16) All the brethren greet you. Greet ye one another with an holy kiss. (1) Cor 16:20 Greet one another with an holy kiss. (2 Cor 13:12) Greet all the brethren with an holy kiss. (1 Th 5:26) Greet ye one another with a kiss of charity. Peace be with you all that are in Christ Jesus. Amen. (1 Pet 5:14)

If all you do is come to Church and sit in your pew you miss the real joy of Christian Fellowship. Greet the other people with a smile and a hearty hello. It’ll make them feel better and give you a joy in the service you’ve never had before.

Let me also mention that a visitor should never come to Church without being greeted by most of the members. It takes a lot of effort and will power to come into a strange church; make it as easy as possible on them.

V. KISS OF SUBMISSION: Kiss the Son, lest he be angry, and ye perish from the way, when his wrath is kindled but a little. Blessed are all they that put their trust in him (Psa 2:12).

When a man sins, IT IS GOD WHO IS OFFENDED; but man who wants to be petted! When I offend my wife, I don’t expect her to suddenly begin petting me; yet man thinks that God is supposed to make him feel good about himself since sin makes him feel so bad.

If Sin has separated you and God, come back to Him today, show Him a broken heart of repentance, ask His forgiveness because you have hurt Him so much with your sinfulness, and then pledge you allegiance and affection to Him. Kiss the King, lest he be angry, and ye perish from the way!!

Psalm 03:3 LIFT UP YOUR EYES

Ps 3:3 But thou, O Lord, art a shield for me; my glory, and the lifter up of mine head

There was once a boy who found a dime on the ground and spent the rest of his life looking down into the filth of the world. Are you like that. Do you spend all your time looking at the bad things in this world instead of looking up?? As a Christian we can look at this sin sick world as it drunkenly wobbles it’s way to destruction and wring our hands and say, “Oh me!, Oh me!”; or we can LOOK BEYOND THESE PRESENT PROBLEMS TO THE PERMANENT PROMISES OF GOD. The Psalmist said that God is the “Lifter up of my head”. Let’s look at what God wants us to see when we lift up our eyes.

LIFT UP YOUR EYES:

1. In Prayer- Jn 17:1 These words spake Jesus, and lifted up his eyes to heaven, and said, Father, the hour is come; glorify thy Son, that thy Son also may glorify thee. Don’t lift up your prayers with PRIDE like the Pharisee but be humble like the Publican (Luke 18:10 14). Seek God’s Glory; not your ease. Look as the Child looks to the Father. Pray in Faith- Don’t pray and then worry!!!

2.For Help- Ps 121:1 2 I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help. My help cometh from the Lord, which made heaven and earth. Like the hills, the Lord is Stable and Strong. There is nothing impossible with God; nothing too hard for Him. The Psalmist here is referring to looking to the hills of Jerusalem where the Temple was for Help. Church is where we find Fellowship, Help in Prayer, Stability through the Word.

3. For Direction-

A) In your WORK: Ps 123:1 2 Unto thee lift I up mine eyes, O thou that dwellest in the heavens. Behold as the eyes of servants look unto the hand of their masters, and as the eyes of a maiden unto the hand of her mistress; so our eyes wait upon the Lord our God, until that he have mercy upon us. God guides those who look to Him to lead them. (Sometimes we “miss the turn off” because we aren’t looking!)

B) In your WARFARE: When faced with an overwhelming enemy Jehoshaphat said to God, “neither know we what to do: but our eyes are upon thee.” II Chron 20:12. Giants and Walled cities cause us to be baffled but don’t even slow God down. As long as Peter had his eyes on Jesus even the stormy sea was his friend; when he looked at the circumstances instead of Christ he began to sink.

4. For Assurance- Is 40:26 Lift up your eyes on high, and behold who hath created these things, that bringeth out their host by number: he calleth them all by names by the greatness of his might, for that he is strong in power; not one faileth. The Sun rises each day without your effort, The stars twinkle at night in spite of your sleep. Jesus did not die for the sun or the stars- He died for you!! Lift up your head in confidence then in God’s Love and care. God hasn’t forgotten you or overlooked you.

5. For Fruit- Jn 4:35 Say not ye, There are yet four months, and then cometh harvest? behold, I say unto you, Lift up your eyes, and look on the fields; for they are white already to harvest.

When I was young I never could find beans on the bushes when I wanted to go swimming!! But mom always could! It depends on whether you want Fruit or Fun. If everyone in the Church contacted 5 people EVERY week and invited them to Church we would soon have to build a new building.

6. For Renewal- Dan 4:34 And at the end of the days I, Nebuchadnezzar, lifted up mine eyes unto heaven, and mine understanding returned unto me, and I blessed the most High, and I praised and honoured him that liveth for ever, whose dominion is an everlasting dominion, and his kingdom is from generation to generation. Nebuchadnezzar lived like an animal when he trusted in his own strength but was returned to his kingdom when he looked to the Lord.

The Prodigal Son came to himself in the hog pen when he looked at what he was compared to what he could be. Look around! Are you eating “Hog slop” when you could be dining at the Father’s table?

7. For the Lord’s Return- Luke 21:27 28 And then shall they see the Son of man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. And when these things begin to come to pass, then look up, and lift up your heads; for your redemption draweth nigh. This is beautifully pictured in Gen 24:61 67 where Isaac is awaiting the Bride who is being sought by the Servant. He is walking in the cool of the Evening and lifts up his eyes and see the Bride coming. The Bride then lifts up her eyes and sees the Groom coming for her. We need to keep looking up and anxiously awaiting the return of the Saviour. (This will cause us to live right (I John 3:3) and have Hope (I Thess 4:13 18)).

I can never “get away” with anything around my wife. As soon as I stop looking her in the eyes she knows somethings wrong. How about YOU?? Can you “Look God in the Face” today? Ps 34:5 They looked unto him, and were lightened: and their faces were not ashamed.

Psalm 4:3 THE CHRISTIAN’S PURPOSE

But know that the LORD hath set apart him that is godly for himself: the LORD will hear when I call unto him. (Psa 4:3)

Isn’t this a marvelous statement? It’s almost as if the Lord has made us the “Teacher’s Pet”. Several times in scripture the Lord says Christians are His Peculiar Treasure and in doing so He tells us what His purpose for us is. (The Word “Peculiar” is found 7 times in the Bible. One of these times is about a king’s treasures (Ecc 2:8 I gathered me also silver and gold, and the peculiar treasure of kings and of the provinces: I gat me men singers and women singers, and the delights of the sons of men, as musical instruments, and that of all sorts.) but the remaining 6 times are about God choosing us as His “Peculiar People” -Ps 135:4 For the LORD hath chosen Jacob unto himself, and Israel for his peculiar treasure.

I. CHRISTIANS ARE TO BE A SEPARATED PEOPLE. Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works. (Titus 2:14). De 14:2 For thou art an holy people unto the LORD thy God, and the LORD hath chosen thee to be a peculiar people unto himself, above all the nations that are upon the earth.

A) Because we were Redeemed BY Christ- Jesus gave himself for us that he might redeem us from all iniquity. Christ paid the price for our freedom and gave us life.

B) Because we were Separated FOR Christ‑ Purify unto himself. God is a Holy God and He wants a Holy people (A mother loves her mud encrusted boy but she doesn’t want him sitting on her best dress!!)

C) Because we are Workers WITH Christ‑ zealous of good works. WANTING to work because of your love for God (If ye love me keep my commandments).

II. CHRISTIANS ARE AN OBEDIENT PEOPLE. Now therefore, if ye will obey my voice indeed, and keep my covenant, then ye shall be a peculiar treasure unto me above all people: for all the earth is mine: (Exo 19:5) De 26:18 And the LORD hath avouched thee this day to be his peculiar people, as he hath promised thee, and that thou shouldest keep all his commandments;

If God is always right (and He is) then He is to always be obeyed. A sinner is simply someone who is not living his live in conformity to what God wants. God’s part of the covenant is to give the orders; my part is to obey them!!

How can I learn obedience?? Though he were a Son, yet learned he obedience by the things which he suffered; (Heb 5:8). (Remember that God is refining you into a TREASURE; He can’t allow weaknesses to remain.)

III. CHRISTIANS ARE TO SHOW FORTH THE PRAISES OF GOD. But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should show forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light: (1 Pet 2:9)

A) Where we are to show His Praises: –

1) In Society: A Chosen generation

2) In “Religion”- a royal priesthood

3) In the World- an holy nation

4) Individually- a peculiar people

B) Why we are to show His Praises: He has called us out of darkness into his marvelous light.

What are the results of being God’s Peculiar People?? Answered Prayer- But know that the LORD hath set apart him that is godly for himself: the LORD will hear when I call unto him. (Psa 4:3)

Psalm 4:3 GOD’S PET

But know that the LORD hath set apart him that is godly for himself: the LORD will hear when I call unto him. (Psa 4:3)

Isn’t this a marvelous statement? It’s almost as if the Lord has made us the “Teacher’s Pet”. Several times in scripture the Lord says Christians are His Peculiar Treasure and in doing so He tells us what His purpose for us is. [The Word “Peculiar” is found 7 times in the Bible. One of these times is about a king’s treasures (Ecc 2:8 I gathered me also silver and gold, and the peculiar treasure of kings and of the provinces: I gat me men singers and women singers, and the delights of the sons of men, as musical instruments, and that of all sorts) but the remaining 6 times are about God choosing us as His “Peculiar People”].

1) God’s Pets are chosen by God: For the LORD hath chosen Jacob unto himself, and Israel for his peculiar treasure. (Ps 135:4).

2) God’s Pets are Examples for God: For thou art an holy people unto the LORD thy God, and the LORD hath chosen thee to be a peculiar people unto himself, above all the nations that are upon the earth. (De 14:2).

3) God’s Pets like to work for God: Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works (Titus 2:14).

4) God’s Pets are obedient to God: De 26:18 And the LORD hath avouched thee this day to be his peculiar people, as he hath promised thee, and that thou shouldest keep all his commandments; If God is always right (and He is) then He is to always be obeyed. A sinner is simply someone who is not living his live in conformity to what God wants. God’s part of the covenant is to give the orders; my part is to obey them!!

How can I learn obedience?? Though he were a Son, yet learned he obedience by the things which he suffered; (Heb 5:8) (Remember that God is refining you into a TREASURE; He can’t allow weaknesses to remain.)

5) God’s Pets Bring Praise to God: But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should show forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light: (1 Pet 2:9)

A) Where we are to show His Praises:

1) In Society: A Chosen generation

2) In “Religion”- a royal priesthood

3) In the World- an holy nation

4) Individually- a peculiar people

B) Why we are to show His Praises: He has called us out of darkness into his marvelous light.

6) God’s Pets have a special relationship with God: Now therefore, if ye will obey my voice indeed, and keep my covenant, then ye shall be a peculiar treasure unto me above all people: for all the earth is mine: (Exo 19:5).

What are the results of being God’s Peculiar People Pet?? Answered Prayer- But know that the LORD hath set apart him that is godly for himself: the LORD will hear when I call unto him. (Psa 4:3)

Psalm 06:4 PRAYER’S GREATEST REQUEST

There are Many Prayer request in the Bible.

One of the greatest is- And he said, I beseech thee, shew me thy glory. (Exodus 33:18).

I believe the Greatest Prayer Request is- Return, O LORD, deliver my soul: oh save me for thy mercies’ sake. (Psalms 6:4).

Psalm 10:1-2 GETTING AWAY WITH SIN

Ps 10:1-2 Why standest thou afar off, O Lord? why hidest thou thyself in times of trouble? The wicked in his pride doth persecute the poor: let them be taken in the devices that they have imagined.

We are living in a difficult time for Christians; Sinners are prospering and Saints are being persecuted. The Good seem to always come up short while the Greedy get richer and richer and seem to “Get By” with almost everything. I want us today to look at how God deals with Sin and see why He doesn’t “zap sinners with lightning bolts” as we sometimes want.

I. THE TIMING OF GOD’S JUDGEMENT:

A) Sometimes Swiftly and Publicly-

1) Haman (Esther 7:10 So they hanged Haman on the gallows that he had prepared for Mordecai.)

2) Nadab and Abihu [Aaron’s sons] (Num.3:4 And Nadab and Abihu died before the Lord, when they offered strange fire before the Lord.)

3) When Uzzah touched the ark of God as it was being transported he was killed immediately (II Sam 6:6-7)

B) Sometimes Slowly but Surely-

1) Pharaoh drowned the Israelite babies, but he was drowned in the Red Sea.

2) Ahab “got by” with sin for years until one day in a battle an archer shot an arrow “by chance” and killed him.

You may get by 99 times, but “be sure your sins will find you out.” Prov 5:22 His own iniquities shall take the wicked himself, and he shall be holden with the cords of his sins.

The swift method is necessary to show there is a God that rules on the earth; the slow method is necessary to show there is a judgment to come. But most of the time it appears that the “mills of God grind exceedingly slow”; and often it appears that, since vengeance belongs to God, He takes it after death instead of during life. Let’s look at some reasons that God does not always punish bad men (women) when they do wrong:

The Frailty of man- If God dealt with Every sin instantly then the world would soon be destroyed- for all have sinned! God would be the destroyer, not the governor of the world.
The Nature of God- Longsuffering: 2PE 3:9 The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.
The Need of Man- Repentance: God expects man to TURN FROM Sin as well as Receive Pardon for it. Acts 17:30 And the times of this ignorance God winked at; but now commandeth all men every where to repent.
The Desire of God- Voluntary Love: Because man is a free agent and present punishment would drive him to slavery rather than voluntary submission.
The Love of God- God takes no pleasure in the death of the wicked; He loved them enough for His only Son to die for them and this love makes Him patience in His punishment.
The Need to “Protect” the Righteous while the wicked are being punished- Because the “bad” can’t be properly punished without sometimes harming the good (Pulling up the tares with the wheat).
The Faith of the Righteous must be tested and purified- Is 48:10 Behold, I have refined thee, but not with silver; I have chosen thee in the furnace of affliction.
Sometimes sins are not “ripe” for punishment.- Isreal stayed in Egypt 400 years til the sin of Canaan was “full” (Gen 15:16).

However, you can Rest assured that God will act [By the way, aren’t you glad God does not deal with you the way you want Him to deal with others?] in the BEST TIME:

Because God puts off sentence, it does not mean He has forgotten. Ecclesiastes 8:11-13 Because sentence against an evil work is not executed speedily, therefore the heart of the sons of men is fully set in them to do evil. Though a sinner do evil an hundred times, and his days be prolonged, yet surely I know that it shall be well with them that fear God, which fear before him: but it shall not be well with the wicked, neither shall he prolong his days, which are as a shadow; because he feareth not before God.
The Evidence of Sin’s Punishment is not always obvious- The wicked flee when no man pursue. We can see if a person suffers in his body, or social position, or reputation; but we can’t see the inward man that knows he’s done wrong – the roiling turmoil, the constant threat of being “found out,” etc..
Many Times God allows the Bad to punish the Bad- Assyrians, Romans. Is 7:20 In the same day shall the Lord shave with a razor that is hired, namely, by them beyond the river, by the king of Assyria

Be aware, however, that whether sentence is executed swiftly or slowly; or Privately or Publicly; court has been held and sentence has been passed on every sin (all evil and all evil workers): Ezek.18:20 The soul that sinneth, it shall die.

The only way to “get away” with sin is to give it to Jesus. Admit it, forsake it, trust only in His Grace.

Psalm 11:3 FALLEN FOUNDATIONS

Psa 11:3 If the foundations be destroyed, what can the righteous do?

One of the greatest tragedies to hit the Christian Church in my life time took place Tuesday. America decided to abandon all sense of morality and character and elect a man solely on his “pie in the sky” promise to increase jobs. Like Esau, we have sold our birth right for a bowl of soup. Like Judas, we have sold our Savior for a day’s pay. Soon our Cheers will turn to Tears- Prov 29:2 When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice: but when the wicked beareth rule, the people mourn.

Not only is the Leader of our Country lacking in moral values, we are face with a World System (The “World”) that is constantly seeking to bring us down into the mud and slime of sin.

Foundation of Family- Homosexuals

Foundations of Life- Abortions/ Mercy Killings

That door is closed- What we must do now is

1) Teach our Children that Sex is wrong outside of Marriage.

2) Provide a Loving, Forgiving atmosphere where a person can repent of their sin rather than add the sin of murder.

We need a foundation that will keep us stable during the Cravings of the Flesh, the Corruption of the World System, and the Constant attack of Satan. Why does God allow these? Persecution purifies us, Problems teach us to trust Him, and Pain makes us long for Heaven.

Those are the PROBLEMS. Now let’s look at the PROPER FOUNDATION to build with so that you can withstand any storm that comes your way. This Foundation is built upon what you believe and what you do as a result of that belief. We’ll look at 7 Key Foundation Stones:

1. JESUS CHRIST- I believe Jesus Christ is fully and absolutely God. I Believe Jesus Christ lived on this earth as a perfect sinless man. I Believe He died on a cross outside of Jerusalem as a payment for the sins of mankind. I believe that He was raised from the dead on the third day, that He ascended to Heaven to await the completion of God’s plan on earth, and that one day He will return to earth to claim His “Bride” (Followers). HAVE YOU ACCEPTED CHRIST AS YOUR SAVIOR??

2. THE BIBLE- I believe that the Bible is the Word of God. I believe it contains principles and applications for every situation of life in every age. I believe it should be read, study, and obeyed. DO YOU??

3. SALVATION- I believe Christianity is not an EXPERIENCE but a COMMITMENT. I believe it will effect not only my emotions but also my attitudes and actions. I do not believe Christianity makes me perfect but I do believe it makes me a new creature in Christ that will continue to grow. I believe a religion that stirs my heart without effecting my Hands is a faulty faith (The demons believe and tremble). IS THERE A TIME AND PLACE THAT YOU HAVE REPENTED OF SIN AND TRUSTED CHRIST? ARE YOU LIVING DIFFERENTLY AS A RESULT?

4. THE HOLY SPIRIT- I believe that the Holy Spirit convicts a person of sin and is the power in conversion. I believe that to try to do the work of God without the power of God is like trying to empty the ocean with a pitch fork; you’ll work yourself to death and never accomplish anything. You must submit yourself to the Holy Spirit’s control so that He can accomplish God’s will in your life. ARE YOU CONTINUALLY BEING FILLED WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT?

5. CHRISTIAN LIVING- I believe I should follow the example of Christ in my ever day life by always putting the will and work of the Heavenly Father first in every thing I do. I believe that the greatest thing any person will ever do on earth is to find his place in the body of Christ and function effectively there. ARE YOU WHERE GOD WANTS YOU TO BE DOING WHAT GOD WANTS??

6. WITNESSING- I believe it’s not the will of God that any should be lost but that all should come to repentance. I believe it is the happy duty of every Christian to Be a witness and to bear witness of the gospel of Christ. We are to reach every one we can, every time we can, with every method God gives us. DOES YOU LIGHT SHINE?

I believe that will usher in a time of Tribulation such as has not been known on the earth to this time. During this time of Tribulation billions of people will die, antichrist will reign, and men will long for death, and it will flee from them. ARE YOU READY FOR DEATH OR THE RAPTURE??

Those are 7 foundation stones I believe will stand the storms of life. My anchor holds and grips the solid rock today. Does yours??

Psalm 11:3 STORM STANDING STONES

If the foundations be destroyed, what can the righteous do? (Psa 11:3)

Jesus said you must build upon the rock if you were to withstand the storms of life. That Rock was hearing and heeding what He said (Matt 7:24-27). Paul said the Church was built upon the foundation of the Apostles and Prophets, Jesus Christ being the chief cornerstone- Eph 2:20. Now the Psalmist is telling us of a grave danger; that the foundation might be destroyed.

The Deacons and I met after Church Wednesday night and decided to purchase metal pipes to hold the Parsonage garage. The temporary wooden ones we put up several months ago have worked alright but we fear a snow storm might cause them to buckle. That would do great damage to the garage, the parsonage, and my car! That makes it important that we have a strong sturdy foundation. In the same way, I want us today to see the same need as we re-examine our Spiritual Foundation and make sure it will stand the storms of life.

We live in a world that is sliding on greased skids directly into the fiery wrath of God. Murder, robbery, and rape are a normal part of life in America today- from the school house to the church house.

We are drowning in a sea of our own garbage and pollution and no one cares as long as the garbage dump is put in someone else’s county!

We have no statesmen in government any more; only politicians who are out to squeeze as much from the people as they can while getting as much for themselves and their friends as they can. They moan and groan on TV and laugh and party behind closed doors while the average American knows it’s every man for himself any more.

Saddest of all, however, is the way that many so called “Christian” live today. They claim to be Christians but they live like the devil. They drink, commit adultery, swear, lie, steal, and attend the same activities the world attends; but somehow they think that saying something about “the man upstairs” when the preacher is around makes them alright (If you walk like a duck, quack like a duck, and fly like a duck; as far as I’m concerned when I go hunting, you’re dead duck!).

Many of these “Christians” only attend the 11am service on Sunday morning (and that when it’s convenient). They don’t read the Bible, pray, or witness to their faith (Knowing that if they did so their friends would look at them and say, “Are YOU a Christian?”).

I fear that many people are fooled about their Foundation; and when some stress is placed on them, their house will come crashing down around them. Let’s make sure you’ve got some STORM STANDING STONES to build your life on.

Those are the PROBLEMS. Now let’s look at the PROPER FOUNDATION to Build with so that you can withstand any storm that comes your way. This Foundation is built upon what you believe and what you do as a result of that belief. We’ll look at 7 Key Foundation Stones:

7. THE END OF TIME- I believe that the end of time is very very near and what I’m going to do for the Lord I need to do as soon as possible. I believe the next event on God’s calendar is the Rapture of the Church in which all believers will be “snatched” from the earth in the twinkling of an eye to meet the Lord. I believe that will usher in a time of Tribulation such as has not been known on the earth to this time. During this time of Tribulation billions of people will die, antichrist will reign, and men will long for death, and it will flee from them. ARE YOU READY FOR DEATH OR THE RAPTURE??

Those are 7 foundation stones I believe will stand the storms of life. My anchor holds and grips the solid rock today. Does yours??

Psalm 13:1 FORGOTTEN

Story of my illness in 2nd grade and then forgotten in last day of awards.

How long wilt thou forget me, O LORD? for ever? how long wilt thou hide thy face from me? (Psa 13:1). Cast me not off in the time of old age; forsake me not when my strength faileth (Psa 71:9).

Old People tend to feel they are forgotten. Here are some things to help you remember you are still remembered and important:

GRANDCHILDREN: And he shall be unto thee a restorer of thy life, and a nourisher of thine old age: for thy daughter in law, which loveth thee, which is better to thee than seven sons, hath borne him (Ruth 4:15).

BIBLE TRAINING: Those that be planted in the house of the LORD shall flourish in the courts of our God. They shall still bring forth fruit in old age; they shall be fat and flourishing; To show that the LORD is upright: he is my rock, and there is no unrighteousness in him. (Psa 92:13-15)

EVEN IN ILLNESS: And even to your old age I am he; and even to hoar hairs will I carry you: I have made, and I will bear; even I will carry, and will deliver you (Isa 46:4).

Psalm 14:1 WHAT KIND OF ATHEIST ARE YOU?

Ps 14:1 The fool hath said in his heart, There is no God. They are corrupt, they have done abominable works, there is none that doeth good.

The word ATHEIST comes from a Greek word meaning “No (a) God (Theos)” and was originally applied to those who deny the existence of a Supreme Being. While the word “Atheist” is not found in the Bible, the idea of “Denying God” is. And the amazing thing is that the vast majority of the world falls under the heading of Atheist! I want us today to look at the 3 “kinds” of atheist, the Perils of being an Atheist, and then I want to determine how we can recognize and build a relationship with God.

I. THE THREE KINDS OF ATHEIST:

1) Professing Atheist- Those who deny the God of the Bible. Rom 1:20-23 For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse: Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened. Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools, And changed the glory of the uncorruptible God into an image made like to corruptible man, and to birds, and fourfooted beasts, and creeping things.

2) Philosophical Atheist- The crowd Paul had to content with on Mars Hill (Acts 17:23) For as I passed by, and beheld your devotions, I found an altar with this inscription, TO THE UNKNOWN GOD. Whom therefore ye ignorantly worship, him declare I unto you.

3) Practicing Atheist- Those who talk like they’re active but live like they’re Atheist! Tit 1:16 They profess that they know God; but in works they deny him, being abominable, and disobedient, and unto every good work reprobate.

Each of these “roots” has numerous Branches (and many times it’s difficult to connect the two but careful observation will reveal where the “sap” is coming from!); But the “fruit” they produce is destroyed lives and damning souls! Let’s examine them closer.

1. The PROFESSING ATHEIST- The easiest to recognize because they stand vocally and visibly against the God of the Bible. They may recognize A God but they stand against THE God. This is the majority of the Eastern World (Moslems, Hindus, Buddhist, etc.). Many of them are VERY Religious and have a standard of morals and manners that are to be envied but they refuse to acknowledge God and accept His Son, Jesus Christ. These are the Millions and Millions of “religious” people who have seldom (if ever) heard the Gospel and so they cling to idols and ideologies that are like giving aspirins to a man dying of cancer; they provide temporary relief for minor symptoms but do nothing to change the awful fate to come.

2. The PHILOSOPHICAL ATHEIST- Because God cannot be “put in a jar” or shown through “Scientific Reasoning” they make up something to replace God. Humanism (Man is God), “New Age” (The World is God), and the “Force” (Some impersonal power that cast us into a world to do the best we can) are branches of this root. These people are governed by Conscience, the Crowd’s Opinion, or the “Cosmos” (Astrology, mysticism, etc). They refuse the Bible’s Authority or application.

3. The PRACTICING ATHEIST- The “Worst” of all because they say one thing (that they believe and follow God) and live another thing (in works they deny Him). The Pharisees of Jesus’ day were like this- Matt 23:27-28 Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye are like unto whited sepulchers, which indeed appear beautiful outward, but are within full of dead men’s bones, and of all uncleanness. Even so ye also outwardly appear righteous unto men, but within ye are full of hypocrisy and iniquity. Many people today who profess to be Christians worship at the altars of SELF, SUBSTANCE, or SUCCESS and think God doesn’t know or care. They will be offended today that I call them “Atheist” but they must realize (before it’s too late) that God doesn’t simply listen to your words, He examines your Fruit!! (Matt 7:20).

II. THE PERILS OF BEING AN ATHEIST:

a. You can lose your mind- Rom 1:28 And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient: (Then follows a list of some of the most despicable sins known to mankind; that are being practiced and proclaimed on TV today!).

b. You will lose your Soul- John 3:36 He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that beleiveth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him.

III. HOW CAN YOU KNOW THE REAL GOD?

a. Look at the Example He’s Given us- Jesus (He that hath seen me hath seen the Father Jn 14:9)

b. Look at the Evidence He has given us- Ps 19:1 The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament sheweth his handywork.

c. Listen to the Exhortation of Paul- Phil 3:8 Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung, that I may win Christ.- God reveals Himself to those who SEEK to Know Him. He seldom reveals Himself to those with only a “passing interest”; Knowing God is not the Dedication of a Moment but the Determination of a Life Time.

d. Labor in the Exercises He has Left us:

1> His Word- John 17:8 For I have given unto them the words which thou gavest me; and they have received them, and have known surely that I came out from thee, and they have believed that thou didst send me. Read, Study, and Meditate on the Word of God.

2> His Witness- The Spirit. John 15:26 But when the Comforter is come, whom I will send unto you from the Father, even the Spirit of truth, which proceedeth from the Father, he shall testify of me. The “Spirit bears witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God” (Rom 8:16). Do not Grieve or Quench the Spirit but allow Him to reveal Christ in and to your heart.

3> His Works- Christians are part of the body of Christ. As we function FOR Him we learn more OF Him. Christianity is not a “mind game” we play but a changed life we live. We learn to have the Submitted Mind of Christ (Phil 2:5), the Serving Hands of Christ, and the Saving Witness of Christ (Luke 24:47-49).

Are you an Atheist in Word, Mind, or Actions?? Are you building a Relationship with God as you continually get to know Him more and more?

Psalm 14:1, 53:1 NO GOD

Thank the Lord for the work and the workers in India during this very difficult time. Your prayers and support are vital.

Memorial Day / Covid-19: [I have dealt with Death most of my life- Pastor (HIV) or Soldier: To some degree, the past two months have been the experience of 18 year olds during war time. Taken away from family and friends, they are thrown into a new experience where rules are rigid, life is completely different, and death is constantly seeking you. I remember how hard it was not to be able to go to someone and simply listen all night as they screamed their life away. I remember Mac, a kind and gentle soul, completely out of place in the horrors of war, who fell, hit his head on a rock, and drowned before anyone could reach him just days before his discharge. And I remember how many “good young men” abandoned God and good during this time.

That is what I am concerned about in today’s message as we look at a world which for the past two months has pushed people to doubt, distrust, or disbelieve God’s care and concern.

These two Psalms are basically the same. Why would God skip hundreds of years of history and countless experiences of great people in order to use valuable space to repeat a Psalm? That must mean the truth in this Psalm is Very Important.

The fool hath said in his heart, There is no God. They are corrupt, they have done abominable works, there is none that doeth good (Psalms 14:1).The LORD looked down from heaven upon the children of men, to see if there were any that did understand, and seek God (Psalms 14:2).

The fool hath said in his heart, There is no God. Corrupt are they, and have done abominable iniquity: there is none that doeth good (Psalms 53:1).

Satan, the Media, and the World have used 3 Methods to SEPARATE you from God:

1) Isolation from family, friends, and regulating relationships: “I fear exposing myself to anyone” “Everyone is a threat” “It is every man for themselves” NOT GOOD FOR ADAM TO BE ALONE

2) Escapism: “I like how it feels to not feel”. A two month “staycation” has turned into hiding in a cave to avoid Meaning, Motivation, and Schedule. Watching through the Window “Peeping Toms” who look at other people living life but never really making the effort to live their life. BODY of Christ

3) Abandonment by Government, “Grown-ups” (School, work, etc), and God as many have begun to doubt His Care, Concern, and Control (Existence, Authority, Salvation). God became FLESH

THREE TRUTHS YOU NEED TO REMEMBER so you will not say “No” to God:

1): There is a God and you are not Him. God does not have to make sense to you or to please you. You were created for God; God does not exist for you.

2) God still plays by the Old Rules– Redemption, Rewards. Would I serve God if there was no Hell or Heaven? Would I chose to choose God if the choice I made had no implications past this present world? Paul Said If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men most miserable (1 Cor 15:19).

3) You are allowed to say “No” to God but it has consequences. God has given mankind one of the most awesome privileges available in the universe; freedom of the will. He placed mankind on the earth, set in motion certain circumstances and events, and then allowed these mere mortals to make choices that impact the work of God on the earth. Choices that determine each person’s relationship with the God of the universe!

The fool hath said in his heart, There is no God

Psalm 15 WHO CAN ABIDE WITH GOD?

This Psalm might be entitled “Fitness for Fellowship” because it describes that very thing. It shows that a Relationship with God is more than a Birth – it’s a life, and a Holy Life at that, as we fellowship with a Holy God. The Psalmist list the characteristics you will find in this Relationship.

Note that you “abide/dwell” – not something you do 5 minutes a day or a place you visit 2 hours a week. [Tabernacle = House of God. Holy Hill = Surroundings (God is a part of our life in the field as well as the fold, in the community as well as the Church)]

1. HIS WALK – “Walketh uprightly” – His manner of life is right- “Worketh Righteousness” – a. Works for Right things b. Works righteously.

2. HIS TALK – “Speaketh the truth in his heart” – True about himself True to himself “Backbiteth not with his tongue” – Not a gossip or a grump

3. HIS LIFE – “Doesn’t do Evil to his neighbor” – His actions correspond to his testimony. (His neighbors want what he’s got because what he’s got is worth wanting!)

“Doesn’t take up a reproach against his neighbor” – Because he loves his neighbor as himself he seeks to build them up instead of tear them down.

4. HIS LOVE – “In whose eyes a vile person is condemned” – Hates sin and what is does to people.

“He honoureth them that fear the Lord” – Loves and respects the people of God and the things of God. (Show me a man who looks for chances to do evil or associate with evil doers and who looks for excuses to miss associating with God’s people and I’ll show you a person who needs to check up on his Salvation!!)

5. HIS WORD – “Sweareth to his own hurt and changeth not” – He is dependable and trustworthy. In a sin-tossed world men are looking for real MEN who say what they mean and mean what they say.

6. HIS WEALTH – “Putteth not out his money to usury (excess interest)

“Doesn’t think Profit is more importnat than People. “Doesn’t take reward against the innocent” – Thinks right living ought to be rewarded by helping instead of taking advantage of.

7. HIS STABILITY – “He that doeth these things shall never be moved” A Constant Christian. He doesn’t rise and fall with the tide but serves God in Good times and in Bad, in Public and in Private, at Home and Abroad.

DO YOU HAVE AN APPOINTMENT WITH GOD ONCE A WEEK OR DO YOU ABIDE WITH HIM???

DO YOUR FRIENDS AND FAMILY HAVE ENOUGH EVIDENCE TO CONVICT YOU OF BEING A CHRISTIAN??

Psalm 16:- GOD HAS GOT YOU COVERED

This important Psalm was used by Peter in the Great sermon at Pentecost (vs 10-11) and Paul in his sermon when he changed course to go to the Gentiles (Vs 10). It also contains my “life verse”- vs 11. It is called a Michtam of David. Michtam means “To Cover” and is thought by many to be a declaration of David’s faith in God’s Protective Covering.

Today I want us to grasp how God covers us in every circumstance of life. Once we grasp this important principle we will find a Peace and confidence that will astonish us. Seven principles are listed in these verses that show us the covering power and protection of God.

1. DEPENDABLE: Preserve me, O God: for in thee do I put my trust (Psa 16:1). God is Trustworthy. We can put our Trust in Him and depend on Him to always do right. The roof at the parsonage has begun to leak. It’s aggravating and frustrating. What a joy it is, however, when you have a dependable covering. God covers you today and does not allow trial or temptation to come your way without giving strength to endure or over come.

2. RELIABLE: O my soul, thou hast said unto the LORD, Thou art my Lord: my goodness extendeth not to thee (Psa 16:2). LORD means Jehovah, “the Self Existent One”. Lord means Adonai, “Master, Husband”. David is saying to the Self Existent God that he recognizes that God is the Master and David is the Servant; and he is willing to accept this state because of his confidence in God’s loving leadership. Many people have given God their sins but not their life!! They need to call Christ, Adonai, Master; and allow His control to cover their life.

3. DELIGHTFUL: But to the saints that are in the earth, and to the excellent, in whom is all my delight. Their sorrows shall be multiplied that hasten after another god: their drink offerings of blood will I not offer, nor take up their names into my lips (Psa 16:3-4). Serving sin may seem to bring momentary pleasure but it leads to the degrading power of sin controlling our life. The only delight is when we serve God with a joyful willing heart. What peace and confidence come into our life when we rest under the covering of God’s Will. What confusion and danger come our way when we live outside of this covering.

4. RESOURCEFUL: The LORD is the portion of mine inheritance and of my cup: thou maintainest my lot. The lines are fallen unto me in pleasant places; yea, I have a goodly heritage (Psa 16:5-6). The Lord has a way to Bless and keep me; to maintain my lot. His covering cares for even the hairs that fall from my head.

5. EDUCATIONAL: I will bless the LORD, who hath given me counsel: my reins also instruct me in the night seasons (Psa 16:7). His covering includes counsel. Wisdom, direction, and guidance are all mine as I follow God’s directions.

6. HOPEFUL: I have set the LORD always before me: because he is at my right hand, I shall not be moved. Therefore my heart is glad, and my glory rejoiceth: my flesh also shall rest in hope. For thou wilt not leave my soul in hell; neither wilt thou suffer thine Holy One to see corruption (Psa 16:8-10). His covering means I can rest in Hope! He will not allow even death to destroy me. As Christ was raised from the dead, so will I be.

7. FAITHFUL: Thou wilt show me the path of life: in thy presence is fulness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore (Psa 16:11). God’s Covering shows me what to do now, How to Enjoy life, and gives me a wonderful end to anticipate. Glory!!

Psalm 16:11 29 YEARS AND COUNTING

I was born again on March 19, 1962. That was 29 years ago. Shortly after I was saved I took as my “life verse” Psalm 16:11 Thou wilt show me the path of life: in thy presence is fulness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore. It tells about the 3 major things everyone needs to Know; What to do, How to obtain Joy, and What your ultimate destination will be.

I. THE PATH- Thou wilt show me the path of life.

A) Path is Singular- Only ONE Path is the right path (Narrow way)

B) It is a Path of LIFE- Broad way leads to destruction and DEATH

C) It is a Path chosen by God. This Path is:

1. Not seen by Human wisdom- There is a path which no fowl knoweth, and which the vulture’s eye hath not seen (Job 28:7) There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death (Prov 14:12). You must walk by Faith, not by sight.

2. Plain to those who want to learn- Teach me thy way, O LORD, and lead me in a plain path, because of mine enemies (Psa 27:11). It’s only difficult when we doubt or fail to try.

3. Obeys God- Make me to go in the path of thy commandments; for therein do I delight (Psa 119:35).

4. Guided by the Word- Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path (Psa 119:105). The Bible gives us examples of past travelers as well as encouragement for present difficulties.

5. A Consider path- Thou compassest my path and my lying down, and art acquainted with all my ways (Psa 139:3). The way of the just is uprightness: thou, most upright, dost weigh the path of the just (Isa 26:7). God Considered ME before He chose this path for me. He knows my weaknesses as well as my abilities and He determined my path with all the facts in mind; therefore, I CAN walk my Path- When my spirit was overwhelmed within me, then thou knewest my path (Psa 142:3).

6. A Protected Path- When thou passest through the waters, I will be with thee; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow thee: when thou walkest through the fire, thou shalt not be burned; neither shall the flame kindle upon thee (Isa 43:2). He walks with me in danger as well as discouragement; that’s all I need.

7. A growing Path- But the path of the just is as the shining light, that shineth more and more unto the perfect day (Prov 4:18). The longer I walk God’s Path for me the greater my understanding of what He’s trying to accomplish in my life; and the greater my testimony to those who watch me.

8. A Thoughtful Path- Ponder the path of thy feet, and let all thy ways be established (Prov 4:26). You must consider where you’ve been, where you are, and where you’re going. Marvel at God’s leadership, Trust in God’s Directions, and Look for journey’s end.

Peace about your Path will encourage your heart, establish your work, and motivate your “ministry”.

II. THE PRESENCE in thy presence is fulness of joy. (Happiness is a Shadow, it disappears in the shade! Joy is what we need).

A) How do we Come into His Presence-

1. Be Clean- Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water (Heb 10:22).

2. Be Willing- Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded (James 4:8).

B) What does it mean to be IN HIS PRESENCE?

1. A PLACE OF REST- And he said, My presence shall go with thee, and I will give thee rest. And he said unto him, If thy presence go not with me, carry us not up hence. (Exo 33:14-15)

In all their affliction he was afflicted, and the angel of his presence saved them: in his love and in his pity he redeemed them; and he bare them, and carried them all the days of old (Isa 63:9). We find Rest in His presence because we KNOW He understands and cares.

2. A Symbol OF REJECTION- For through the anger of the LORD it came to pass in Jerusalem and Judah, until he had cast them out from his presence, that Zedekiah rebelled against the king of Babylon (2 Ki 24:20). The greatest tragedy in all the world is when God’s Spirit ceases striving with you. Cast me not away from thy presence; and take not thy holy spirit from me (Psa 51:11).

3. A PLACE OF REJOICING- Glory and honour are in his presence; strength and gladness are in his place (1 Chr 16:27). Let us come before his presence with thanksgiving, and make a joyful noise unto him with psalms (Psa 95:2). Serve the LORD with gladness: come before his presence with singing (Psa 100:2). Who wouldn’t be joyful in the presence of the God of the universe? Why then are so many Christians gloomy on Sunday Morning when they come into His presence to worship???

4. A PLACE OF REQUEST- If, when evil cometh upon us, as the sword, judgment, or pestilence, or famine, we stand before this house, and in thy presence, (for thy name is in this house,) and cry unto thee in our affliction, then thou wilt hear and help (2 Chr 20:9). You don’t want to pray to a blank wall!! You come before His presence because Christ intercedes for you. For Christ is not entered into the holy places made with hands, which are the figures of the true; but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God for us (Heb 9:24). (Even Satan comes before His presence to make request!)- And the LORD said unto Satan, Behold, all that he hath is in thy power; only upon himself put not forth thine hand. So Satan went forth from the presence of the LORD (Job 1:12).

5. SOME WANT TO HIDE FROM HIS PRESENCE- Whither shall I go from thy spirit? or whither shall I flee from thy presence? (Psa 139:7). They fear God will ask them to do something they don’t like- But Jonah rose up to flee unto Tarshish from the presence of the LORD, and went down to Joppa; and he found a ship going to Tarshish: so he paid the fare thereof, and went down into it, to go with them unto Tarshish from the presence of the LORD (Jonah 1:3)

6. A PLACE OF HUMILIATION- That no flesh should glory in his presence (1 Cor 1:29). The only Glorying there is God!

7. THE HORRORS OF HELL- Who shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord, and from the glory of his power (2 Th 1:9) Hell is not bad simply because it’s Hot; it’s away from the presence of the Lord forever!!

III. AT THY RIGHT HAND THERE ARE PLEASURES FOR EVERMORE

A) Right Hand- The Place of Honor. This place of Honor is ours because to God we are:

1> PRECIOUS- It would have been wonderful if God had simply saved us from the horrors of Hell; But He did much more, He has made us sons of God- But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name (John 1:12).

2> POETRY- For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them (Eph 2:10). The word “Workmanship” here comes from a word meaning “God’s Poetry”. In the ages to come men will marvel at the transformation brought about in the life of a Christian as a result of our Faith in God.

3> PECULIAR- But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should show forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvelous light (1 Pet 2:9). “Peculiar” here means to “Wrap around” and signifies that a Christian is “surrounded” by God. This protection does not keep us from experiencing Temptation but it does provide the assurance that the Temptation or Trial will not be more that we can handle-(I Cor 13:10).

In the ages to come it will bring honor to God as we reveal how He cared for us during our pilgrimage through this wicked world.

4> PRIZED- Then they that feared the LORD spake often one to another: and the LORD hearkened, and heard it, and a book of remembrance was written before him for them that feared the LORD, and that thought upon his name. And they shall be mine, saith the LORD of hosts, in that day when I make up my jewels; and I will spare them, as a man spareth his own son that serveth him (Mal 3:17). The amazing, astonishing, astounding, thing is that God puts Gold on His streets and jewels on His walls but puts Christians on display as His prized possession!! How the angels marvel at what Grace has wrought; and how we take it for granted!

B) Pleasures Forevermore-

1> THE PLEASURE OF HIS PRESENCE- We shall see Him face to face whom so long we have known heart to heart. What a joy it will be when we see Him in all His Glory and Majesty.

2> THE PLEASURE OF HIS PEACE- No more Pain, Sorrow, or Death to darken our days. No more Satan to attack and tempt us.

3> THE PLEASURE OF HIS PLACE- He said He had gone to prepare us a place and one day would come back for us. If God created the world in 7 days then what a marvelous place this must be after all this time.

God has a Path for you to Travel. He has promised His Presence along the Way. And He has prepared some Pleasures for us that are beyond description. Come join me as I walk for the Lord. The way is so simple until even I could find it!

Psalm 16:11 LIVING LIFE

Psa 16:11 Thou wilt show me the path of life: in thy presence is fulness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore.

Today I begin my 33rd year as a Christian (Glory!). I’m now as old as Jesus was when he died. During these past 32 years I have pastored 5 different churches, taught in 3 different Bible Institutes, published devotional articles in 8 different newspapers, and written nearly 20 different books. I have preached nearly 5000 sermons and taught nearly 2000 Sunday School Lessons.

In order to Live a Good Life you NEED:

1) Provision- Mat 6:25-26 Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on. Is not the life more than meat, and the body than raiment? 26 Behold the fowls of the air: for they sow not, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feedeth them. Are ye not much better than they?

2) Purpose- Prov 29:18 Where there is no vision, the people perish: but he that keepeth the law, happy is he. He who does not know where he is going ends up going into situations where he does not know where he is at and how to get from there to where he needs to be.

3) Protection- Rock

4) Power of Holy Ghost to go beyond your own abilities and resources.

Psalm 16:11 THE PATH OF LIFE

(Psa 16:11) Thou wilt show me the path of life: in thy presence is fulness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore.

Revelation teaches us that the world will get WORSE and WORSE. Money will be prevalent but Morals and Decency will deteriorate. Children will be shot at School and at Church. The work place will not be safe. Family life will deteriorate, Wickedness, drugs, cursing, and anarchy will be prevalent.

Thank God for the Blessed Hope! As we wait on the soon coming of our Savior and Lord let us see how to survive in a wicked world.

The “Path of Life” is:

A) From GOD- “Thou wilt Show me”

B) Not a GAMBLE- “Path”

C) GREAT- “of Life”

The Way of the Wicked is described as:

A) Chaff blown about by the wind that ends up in the Fire- (Psa 1:4) The ungodly are not so: but are like the chaff which the wind driveth away.

B) Upside down in thinking and actions- (Psa 146:9) The LORD preserveth the strangers; he relieveth the fatherless and widow: but the way of the wicked he turneth upside down. Like the waves of the sea they are tossed about.

C) Darkness and despair- (Prov 4:19) The way of the wicked is as darkness: they know not at what they stumble.

(Isa 55:7) Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts: and let him return unto the LORD, and he will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon.

Psalm 16:11 WHAT CHRIST DID FOR ME

My “Key Verse” in life is Psalm 16:11. I generally put it with my name when I sign a letter. On this 25th anniversary of my preaching Ministry I want to combine it with the verse before it and share a few of the things God has done for me.

Psalm 16:10 11 For thou wilt not leave my soul in hell; neither wilt thou suffer thine Holy One to see corruption. Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in thy presence is fulness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore.

I. MY SALVATION vs 10 Thanks be to God that He didn’t leave my soul in Hell! 25 years ago I knelt at an altar and trusted Christ as my Savior. I didn’t know a lot about the Bible but I knew I was lost without Hope. Someone leaned over me as I prayed at that altar and told me to “Trust Christ”- I did, and have been ever since. What a Glorious Privilege it is to be SAVED.

1. God Forgives the Past- Look WHAT HAPPENS TO FORGIVEN SIN??? Psalm 103:12 As far as the east is from the west, so far hast he removed our transgressions from us.

Isaiah 38:17 Behold, for peace I had great bitterness: but thou hast in love to my soul delivered it from the pit of corruption: for thou hast cast all my sins behind thy back.

Isaiah 44:22 I have blotted out, as a thick cloud, thy transgressions, and, as a cloud, thy sins: return unto me: for I have redeemed thee.

Micah 7:19 He will turn again, he will have compassion upon us: he will subdue our iniquities; ;and thou wilt cast all their sins into the depths of the sea.

Isaiah 43:25 I, even I, am he that blotteth out thy transgressions for mine own sake, and will not remember thy sins. What sins are you talking about???

2. He gives POWER and a PATTERN for the Present- The Holy Spirit and the Example of Christ.

3. And He has promised us a Home in Heaven!!!

We normally say it this way. When you are saved YOU BECOME:

A) A New Creature {A NEW BEGINNING} II Cor 5:17 Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature; old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.

B) A Son of God John 1:12 But as many as received him to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name. With all the rights and privileges that involves

C) An Heir to Heaven John 14:1 2 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.

Now do you still wonder why I’m saved?? How about you? ARE YOU SAVED???

II. MY SERVICE vs 11 This verse says that because I’m saved then 3 things result:

1. A JOB Thou wilt show me the Path of Life Anyone that hears me preach many times will tell you that I stress over and over the fact that God has a Plan for everyone and that they need to find that plan and get in it.

My Particular area of service is that of Pastor. God called me to Preach almost immediately after He saved me, and it was not long after that that I began to realize that His Call for me involved Teaching as much as Preaching. Those two factors have intertwined and expanded until it absolutely astonishes me today. Reaching out with the Gospel has expanded into an Outreach with the Gospel that involves newsletters, tapes, radio, & Bible Institutes. These are not the result of my Talent or ability but of trust in God’s Promises and Provision.

God also has a PLAN and PURPOSE for YOU. It is yet to be seen what God can do with people who are dedicated to Him. And you will never find satisfaction or Joy apart from God’s Plan

2. REAL JOY In His Presence is fullness of joy I have found that Joy is Jesus and does not depend on Changing Circumstances. A vital part of my testimony is that Joy.

3. JESUS At thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore But the greatest part of My Salvation is my relationship with Christ. Christianity is not a Religion I Preach but A Person I serve.

This Same Jesus can be yours today if you will simply let Him in.

Psalm 16:11 CHRIST-OUR TRAVELING COMPANION

Glad to be at the Best Church in Florence: Best People, Best Preacher, Best Music, and, most importantly, God is here. As we gather in celebration today my goal is to bring about CHANGE- in the Church and in your life. The Gospel of Christ is about calling people to change from what they are into the greatness they can be when they sins are forgiven and they begin a wonderful life walk with Christ.

Let’s start with the Church- Types of Churches:

1) Funeral Home: Celebrate the memory of past with positive praise sermons

2) Carnival: “Three ring circus must catch our attention at all times” Each act must be more thrilling than the last

3) Concert: Major on Music

4) Traditional: Show up each week because it is Sunday.

Young Boy in Cracker Barrel who pumped a hand water pump bolted to a board for all he was worth but no water ever came out- nor would it ever come out! Three things people look for in a church- Vision, Visible friendliness, Victory.

Given 5 minutes could you write down the vision and mission of THIS Church? 1> Many could not. 2> Many would not agree with each other. 3> Many would not agree with the one written down by the Pastor.

Some facts the Church needs to Know:

1) You are probably as big as you are WORKING to be

2) You are probably as big as you are WILLING to be- Parking, Seat

3) You are probably as big as you WANT to be- Where no ox are the crib is clean

4) You can be as big as God DESIRES you to be- “I will build my church” Learn to work FOR God instead of working WITH God- Find out where God is at work and join Him.

Three things that must Change for this church to move to the next level. (Expectations determine Outcome. Even Jesus “could do no might works because of their unbelief”):

1) Must change the CHURCH’S vision of the church.- None of us is as smart as all of us

2) Must change the COMMUNITY’S vision of the Church- You reap what you sow in Talk

3) Must change the Church’s Vision of CHRIST- Is 6, Rev 1, Mt of Transfiguration

You can never become what you were meant to be by remaining what you are- as a Church or as a Person. There are greater things than you can imagine ahead of you and there is a great God walking beside you! And that is our Scripture for today- Psalm 16:11 Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in thy presence is fulness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore.

Three answers to Life Questions are found in this verse:

1) Are you going in the right direction? God has a path for your life and you will never find peace until you CHANGE Directions and get on this path. The reason you get into trouble all the time is because you are traveling the wrong Road. The reason sin is wrong is because it is not God’s plan for your life. Man who used rock filled with gold nuggets for a door step.

2) Are you enjoying the journey? There is no greater joy that walking with God- At peace with God, at peace with others, at peace with yourself.

3) Will you like where you are when you reach your destination? No matter what the preacher says at the funeral you will not go to Heaven unless you are a Born Again Child of God.

One of my favorite illustrations in John Bunyan’s Christian Classic, “Pilgrim’s Progress” is when Christian is weary in his journey and spies castle Beautiful in the distance. Greatly desiring rest and refreshment he starts up the path to the castle only to be stopped by an awful roaring. Looking closer he sees a lion on either side of the road leading to the castle. Fearful for his life he does not know what to do until someone in the castle tells him to walk by faith and come to the castle. With mingled fear and faith, Christian walks in the center of the road toward castle Beautiful. It is only when he reaches the place where the lions reside on either side of the road that he realized the lions are chained and cannot touch him as long as he remains in the center of the road!

All of us face Lions in our life, things we fear that keep us from enjoying the rest and refreshment of castle Beautiful- Sinful habits, an overactive mouth, constant financial failure, inability to love or be loved, People pressure at work or school, etc. God wants to Change you. God Can Change you. Will you let Him start today?

Psalm 17:3 THE TONGUE

Ps 17:3 Thou hast proved mine heart; thou hast visited me in the night; thou hast tried me, and shalt find nothing; I am purposed that my mouth shall not transgress.

Every time the Lord has a program for his people Satan invents a “Counterfeit”. Jesus said he was the Vine and we were the branches and as such this “Grapevine” is used to bear the fruits of life in a sin sick world. Satan came along and made the “Grapevine” a means of spreading Gossip instead of the Gospel, Slander instead of Salvation. (Gossip comes from an old English word meaning godparent. This was a person who knew and revealed personal or sensational facts about a person. It eventually came to mean what was said instead of who said it- “a rumor or a report of an intimate nature”).

One of the things that keeps the “Gossip Grapevines” working is the tremendous “need to know” that is found in most of us. In surveys of those things which contribute to employee satisfaction, “Being in the know” always ranks near the top as being desirable. Knowing “what’s going on” has a way of making us feel important and worthwhile. Not knowing what is going on or being surprised, particularly by a piece of information that affects us personally, is very demoralizing.

It is this sense of knowing something that is known to no one else, or only a few, (Again “being in the Know”) that makes Gossip so much fun. This is why people watch the News on TV and buy trash magazines in Grocery Checkout lines; they want to learn something that they don’t know or have only heard a small amount about. [Interestingly enough, this is the basis of much advertising. Enough information is given to spark your interest and cause you to want to visit the store or try the product].

Let’s find out Why Gossip is bad, what can be done to correct it, and then see our Responsibility to correctly use our tongue. GOSSIP IS NORMALLY INACCURATE. Causes of Inaccurate Gossip:

1. Absence of Information. People feel like they need to know, but they do not know. So they start talking about things they do not know about.

2. Information passed on out of context. Only half of the story is given. Sometimes a person is just “bursting” to share something he or she knows so they give a few details and the person listening takes it for all the facts. Prov 29:20 Seest thou a man that is hasty in his words? There is more hope of a fool than of him.

3. The need to feel important by knowing something that others do not know. You want to feel that you really are “in the know”.

4. The desire to promote your own interest so you build yourself up by repeating or making up stories that serve your own interest.

5. Desire to harm another person. The most awful kind of gossip- the malicious repeating of truth or untruth in such a way that it harms a person’s reputation or ability (I know of a Major Restaurant that almost closed because the competition put out the word that they were using “Cat Meat” in their dishes).

HOW CAN WE CONTROL OR CORRECT GOSSIP?

A. Make sure it stops at you-Prov 26:20 Where no wood is, there the fire goeth out: so where there is no talebearer, the strife ceaseth. Ask yourself these question about information you receive:

1. Is it TRUE?

2. Is it FAIR to all concerned?

3. Is its purpose to BUILD or DESTROY? Prov 18:21 Death and life are in the power of the tongue

4. Is it NECESSARY for others to know? Prov 17:21 He that hath knowledge spareth his words See also 17:28

B. If it must be passed on then here are some questions to ask about information you pass on:

1. Would you say the same thing TO the person you are saying ABOUT the person?

2. If it is a problem between you and another, have you tried to be reconciled to them before you share your distress with others?

3. Are you sure you have the FACTS? Prov 18:13 He that answereth a matter before he heareth it, it is folly and shame unto him. Be aware that Gossip is almost always a two-way street. Sooner or later the person you are talking about will know what you say and who said it- Sadly in matters like this, you generally sow the wind and reap the whirlwind.

WHAT ARE OUR RESPONSIBILITIES CONCERNING THE TONGUE?

The tongue is compared to a Fire- James 3:6 One “Match” burns a forest! to the poison of an asp- Ps 140:3, Rom 3:13 “Deadly” It is used to separate friends- Prov 17:9 He that covereth a transgression seeketh love: but he that repeateth a matter separateth very friends. Prov 26:22 The words of a talebearer are as wounds, and they go down into the innermost parts of the belly. and can even destroy friends– Prov 11:9 An hypocrite with his mouth detroyeth his neighbor: but through knowledge shall the just be delivered.

It can overthrow a city- Prov 11:11 By the Blessing of the upright the city is exalted: but it is overthrown by the mouth of the wicked.

It can even kill you- Prov 13:3 He that keepeth his mouth keepeth his life: but he that openeth wide his lips shall have destruction.

But even worst it can even destroy your soul- Prov 21:23 Whoso keepeth his mouth and his tongue keepeth his soul from troubles. [See Rom 10:9 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.]

We are commanded to Let your speech be alway with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man. The Tongue can be one of the greatest assets to a person. It is the means of proclaiming publicly Christ as Savior and then publicly proclaiming Christ as YOUR Savior. Or it can be used to spread Gossip and condemn you- Matt 12:36 But I say unto you that every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment. Ps 110:5 Whoso privlily slandereth his neighbour, him will I cut off

HAVE YOU CONFESSED CHRIST AS SAVIOR? DO YOU NEED TO REPENT OF TONGUE TROUBLE??

Psalm 18:23 KEPT FROM INIQUITY

I was also upright before him, and I kept myself from mine iniquity. (Psalms 18:23).

Be watchful, and strengthen the things which remain, that are ready to die: for I have not found thy works perfect before God (Rev 3:2).

The warning that Christ gives to the Church at Sardis is one that all Christians need to heed today- Be on Guard; Increase in Strength; Realize that God is the one you must Please.

As the world we live in becomes increasingly wicked, we must be more on guard than ever against being entrapped by the mud and mire of sin. How can we “Keep ourselves from Sin”? and live the Victorious Life? How can we live so we can say like the Psalmist in Psalm 18:23 I was also upright before him, and I kept myself from mine iniquity.

Within this verse we find 3 main topics that tell us about the Iniquity that floods our world- A Personal Danger, A Special Guard, and a Happy Result.

I. A PERSONAL DANGER “Mine Iniquity”

A. It is a REAL Danger- This is not “I’d like to lose 10 pounds so I’d look better”. This is “If you don’t lose 20 pounds in a month you’ll die!”

1. For the Sinner, the Wages of Sin is Death (Hell Forever)

2. For the Christian, it involves Chastisement, lose of Fellowship, lose of Victory, lost of rewards, and the possibility of Apostasy.

3. Your “dirt” defiles others also- Sinners lead others into sin, Christians cause weaker brothers to stumble or become discouraged.

B. It is a PERSONAL Danger- All we like sheep have gone astray, we have turned every one to his own way (Is 53:6). We cry against the sins of others and over look our own- BETTER TO LOOK IN THE MIRROR THAN OUT THE WINDOW.

1. Sometimes it depends on our Personality- Some expect much and fall into covetousness; some expect little and fall into despair and disbelief. Disbelief is as the sin of witchcraft and covetousness is idolatry.

2. Sometimes it depends on our Situation:

a. The Young Man is tempted to sinful pleasures; the Old Man to Covetousness; and the Middle Aged to Despair (On a journey you need God’s protection from start to finish).

b. The Rich have Temptations the Poor never know of (Easier for a camel to go thru eye of needle than for rich man to enter Heaven); yet the poor are tempted to do wrong or be bitter because they aren’t rich.

c. Those with Great Talent are tempted to Pride. Those with One talent are tempted to hide it.

d. Those in Adversity are tempted to doubt God or do wrong to relieve the burden (Don’t be like Pharaoh who prayed for God to remover the frogs and then became harder of heart afterwards).

e. Daily Living brings temptations. Some have home lives that cause them to vex their righteous soul from day to day as Lot did (II Pet). Some work in places of corruption and gossip (To Cheat in school or lie on the Job; sin is sin).

3. Sometimes it’s a “Ghost from the Past” that continues to haunt us. Perhaps you used to gossip or lie or lust or steal and even today it’s easy to fall back into the well worn ruts.

Whatever our own PERSONAL Sin, we need to acknowledge it and realize the danger it poses for us. Sadly, it’s this kind of personal confrontation that causes people to be angry instead of Repentant. They take out their anger on the Church or on the Pastor by fuming and vowing to never return again. Yet, these same people will pay and adore a doctor to tell them they have heart trouble!!

This very real danger means we must set up–

II. A SPECIAL GUARD “I have Kept myself from Mine iniquity”

A) I’m not talking about Reformation. If you haven’t been Born Again then you’re fighting a losing battle. Self effort will only end in defeat.

B) If you are saved then there are 4 things you can do to guard against sin:

1> Find out what it is- If the Doctor is treating you for heart problems and you have a broken leg then you’re in trouble. If you covet all the time then it’s probably because you don’t really believe God will meet your needs. The ROOT Sin is Disbelief while the FRUIT Sin is a Covetous life. If you don’t deal with the Root then the Fruit will come right back!

2> Make Sin exceedingly sinful- Realize God hates it and His children must hate it also. See what it’s doing to your life, your friends, and your relationship with God. Avoid the Places of Temptation- Even a weak Delilah can conquer a strong Samson if he’s lying in her lap!

3> Call on the Power of the Holy Spirit to aid you in defeating Sin. Why fight an elephant with a pea shooter when you have a cannon by your side!

4> Pray and Believe against Sin- For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith (1 John 5:4). Pray for God to “Lead you not into Temptation”. Tell God you WANT to be pure.

Remember that the God of peace shall bruise Satan under your feet shortly (Rom 16:20). Because a Battle looks bad doesn’t mean the Devil won’t be defeated. God does not put you in the place where you CAN NOT Sin but in the place where you DON’T WANT TO Sin.

Fight manfully onward

Dark Passions subdue

Look ever to Jesus

He will carry you through

III. A HAPPY RESULT “I Kept myself from mine Iniquity”

A) You live a victorious life over sin

B) You are a light for the Lord in a sin darkened world

C) You will be able to face God and hear, “Well done, good and faithful servant”.

Have you Kept yourself from your sin or has Sin kept you from God??? Acknowledge your sin, Ask God to Forgive you, and then rest in His strength– If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness (1 John 1:9).

Psalm 18:29 GETTING THRU IT AND GETTING OVER IT

For by thee I have run through a troop; and by my God have I leaped over a wall. (Psalms 18:29)

FOI Intro- Several years ago we faced a wall in our work in India. God is blessing in a marvelous and great way in India- God has blessed the Ministry under Missionary Carlisle Hanna to have:

16 Ordained Ministers in Northern India;

5 Ordained Ministers in Southern India

2 Bible Institutes with 99 students enrolled
Boys Home (Hostel) with 50 Boys

236 Organized Churches

325 Mission Preaching Points

485 Converts who were Baptized in 2006

276 Converts who were Baptized from January – June of 2007

In addition we have a dairy, a rice farm, and a wheat farm.

Because of Government policy we are no longer allowed to send permanent missionaries into India. Brother Carlisle is 78 years old. We must look to the Future. What will happen to the work of God in India when Brother Carlisle is no longer able to oversee the ministry? After Prayerful and Careful consideration a number of people who had visited the work in India on numerous occasions decided to form “South Carolina Friends of India”. This organization has a two fold function. We are promoting the present work as we seek to help Brother Carlisle’s regular account while at the same time lead the efforts to purchase things that are needed for the Ministry right now.

Our Long range effort is centered in the FOI Trust Fund. We estimate that it will take a minimum of $150,000 to maintain the work if Brother Carlisle is no longer there. A perpetual Trust Fund has been begun with the FWB Foundation that will generate a minimum of 5% interest. That means we are seeking at least $3 million dollars for the Trust Fund. The principle will never be touched but the Interest will support this work until the Lord returns.

If Satan cannot Destroy you then he will seek to

-Defeat you- If he cannot defeat you then he will seek to defeat someone whose defeat will defeat you.

-Deceive you- About God’s Character and God’s Word- Gen 3

-Distract you- Hide your light under a bushel or a bed (too busy or too tired to work for God)

-Discourage / deflate you- Lose your vision- Look to yourselves, that we lose not those things which we have wrought, but that we receive a full reward. (2 John 1:8)

-Divide you- Over Preachers, Power, Personalities, Problems

All of us have problems in our life. Generally, these problems can be placed into 2 categories: Battles and Barrier Problems. David tells us in our Scripture how to get thru and over both these problems.

I. Battles and Barriers we face:

A) Troops Many (not a single problem)

Military- Serve different Country, Commander, Cause

Militant- This is a fight, not a picnic.

B) Walls Barriers to keep us in or keep us out

Boundaries-

1) Limit Movements

2) Direct us to doors

II. Getting Thru and Over it

A) Direction- Forward and Upward (Run and Leap)

B) Dependence- By Thee / By My God (When we fight on our own we end up bruised and battered). God’s Power can get you Thru it and Over it:

– Elisha (II Kings 6:13-18). Vs 16 And Elisha answered, Fear not; for they that be with us are more than they that be with them.

– Joshua (Jericho in Joshua 6) vs 20 So the people shouted when the priests blew with the trumpets; and it came to pass, when the people heard the sound of the trumpet, and the people shouted with a great shout, that the wall fell down flat, so that the people went up into the city, every man straight before him, and they took the city.

C) Dedication- Need a personal relationship “My God”. I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me. (Phil 4:13)

For by thee I have run through a troop; and by my God have I leaped over a wall. (Psalms 18:29)

The Apollo 11 mission was the first manned mission to land on the Moon. It was the fifth human spaceflight of the Apollo program and the third human voyage to the moon. Launched on July 16, 1969, it carried Commander Neil Armstrong, Command Module Pilot Michael Collins and Lunar Module Pilot ‘Buzz’ Aldrin, Jr. On July 20, Armstrong and Aldrin became the first humans to land on the Moon, while Collins orbited above.

On July 24, 1969 Apollo 11 returned to earth. During the 195 hours, 18 minutes, and 35 seconds that Apollo 11 was in space I got little rest. We had a weather scan machine (sort of like a modern fax) that we had to get to work in order to get a picture of where we were supposed to be positioned in order to help pick up the Astronauts. This machine broke during the mission. After several days of work I determined that the main tube in the machine was no good. We did not have a replacement. My Captain said it HAD to Work, lives depended on it. I stopped work and told the Captain I was going to pray. When I finished praying the machine fired up, printed out a beautiful map- and never operated again. It is buried in the sea between Wake Island and Hawaii. This is a wall I could only leap over with the help of God. Do you have any walls like that in your life?

I grant freely that it costs little to be a mere outward Christian. A man has only got to attend a place of worship twice on Sunday, and to be tolerably moral during the week, and he has gone as far as thousands around him ever go in religion. All this is cheap and easy work: it entails no self-denial or self-sacrifice. If this is saving Christianity, and will take us to heaven when we die, we must alter the description of the way of life, and write, “Wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to heaven!”

But it does cost something to be a real Christian, according to the standard of the Bible. There are enemies to be overcome, battles to be fought, sacrifices to be made, an Egypt to be forsaken, a wilderness to be passed through, a cross to be carried, a race to be run. Conversion is not putting a man in an arm-chair and taking him easily to heaven. It is the beginning of a mighty conflict, in which it costs much to win the victory. Hence arises the unspeakable importance of “counting the cost.”

For another thing, it will cost a man his sins. He must be willing to give up every habit and practice which is wrong in God’s sight. He must set his face against it, quarrel with it, break off from it, fight with it, crucify it, and labor to keep it under, whatever the world around him may say or think. He must do this honestly and fairly. There must be no separate truce with any special sin which he loves. He must count all sins as his deadly enemies, and hate every false way. Whether little or great, whether open or secret, all his sins must be thoroughly renounced. They may struggle hard with him every day, and sometimes almost get the mastery over him. But he must never give way to them. He must keep up a perpetual war with his sins. It is written—“Cast away from you all your transgressions.”—“Break off thy sins and iniquities.”—“Cease to do evil.”—(Ezek. xviii. 31; Daniel iv. 27; Isa. i. 16.)

This also sounds hard. I do not wonder. Our sins are often as dear to us as our children: we love them, hug them, cleave to them, and delight in them. To part with them is as hard as cutting off a right hand, or plucking out a right eye. But it must be done. The parting must come. “Though wickedness be sweet in the sinner’s mouth, though he hide it under his tongue; though he spare it, and forsake it not,” yet it must be given up, if he wishes to be saved. (Job xx. 12, 13.) He and sin must quarrel, if he and God are to be friends. Christ is willing to receive any sinners. But He will not receive them if they will stick to their sins. Let us set down that item second in our account. To be a Christian it will cost a man his sins.

From “Holiness: Its nature, hindrances, difficulties, and roots” by J C Ryle

Psalm 18:35 WHY I SERVE GOD

Thou hast also given me the shield of thy salvation: and thy right hand hath holden me up, and thy gentleness hath made me great (Psalms 18:35)

What would you think if I came to change your god today? This is the task of Missionary Carlisle Hanna as he preaches about Christ in Hindi India.

Men have many needs today:

1- Wounded Heart (Psalm 109) For I am poor and needy, and my heart is wounded within me. (Psalms 109:22).Divorce, Distrust,

2- Broken Heart- Reproach hath broken my heart; and I am full of heaviness: and I looked for some to take pity, but there was none; and for comforters, but I found none (Psalms 69:20).

3- Divided Heart- Their heart is divided; now shall they be found faulty: he shall break down their altars, he shall spoil their images (Hosea 10:2).

4- Deceitful Heart- The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it? (Jeremiah 17:9)

How can I get the Help I need for my Heart and my Life so I can be “Gentle and Great”?

1) The Shield of Salvation

A) Convicts us, Calls us, Converts us, Changes us, Challenges us, Comforts us.

2) The Hand that Helps- Can’t even walk without God holding my hand

3) The Gentleness that produces Greatness (Gentleness= Humbleness, Mercy, Loving Care)

When Missionary Carlisle Hanna’s Wife, Marie, died it shut down many towns in the area- a tremendous honor and sign of the greatness of her kind and gentle spirit.

How Great are YOU? The three people you are:

1) The person YOU See in the Mirror

2) The person OTHERS see in the world

3) The person GOD sees and knows.

Psalm 20: THE CHRISTIAN’S TRUST

One of the Great things about being a Christian is the Trust (Peace of Heart) that is the lifeblood of our life.

I. TRUST GOD FOR SALVATION- I Can’t explain Salvation; I just enjoy it!

II, TRUST GOD IN CIRCUMSTANCES

Life’s Problems: Lost of Job and Mate- Death, Divorce
Life’s Pleasures: Never find ultimate satisfaction in this life; The Abundant life is found in a relationship with Christ.
Life’s Perplexities: Trust God’s:

Word- It will not fail

Work- He knows what’s best for you.

Way- It is always right

in Wrath- One day it will fall on Sinners. Let God take care of Vengeance

Rest in the Rock when tribulation comes.

Look for help in:

1. God’s Name vs 1 Call on for Salvation, Pray in.

2. God’s House vs 2 Fellowship, Friendship, Training

3. God’s Records vs 3 God sees the thoughts of your heart.

Psalm 20:7 THINGS WORTH REMEMBERING

Ps 20:7 Some trust in chariots, and some in horses: but we will remember the name of the Lord our God.

All of us have things we like to remember– Places, People, Pictures. What a rosey smile people get when they sit around and remember good times gone by. Even God likes us to remember some of the things He did so He made Memorials for us:

a. Rainbow- to remember that there would be no more Flood

b. Passover- to remember deliverance from Egypt

c. Rock Monument- to remember crossing Jordan river

d. Lord’s Supper- Remember the Lord’s Death until He come

Men also like to have Memorials- Washington, DC, Gettysburg, and even Cementaries remind us of past events or people. We also remember things like Birthdays, Anniversaries, the “Fourth of July”, etc.. But there are some things we WANT to forget [Bad experiences, Painful situations…] and some things we TEND to Forget [Birthdays, Anniversaries…]. There are some things however that the Lord says we ought to remember. I want us to look at these today and see “Some things that are worth remembering”:

I. THINGS THE CHURCH NEEDS TO REMEMBER- Rev 2:5 Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent.

a. Remember where we were- Ep 2:11 12 Wherefore remember, that ye being in time past Gentiles in the flesh, who are called Uncircumcision by that which is called the Circumcision in the flesh made by hands; That at that time ye were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Isreal, and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope, and without God in the world.

b. Remember to REPENT and RETURN to the First works- Zeal for God in Prayer [Did you know that God “Bottles” your Prayers- Rev 5:8 And when he had taken the book, the four beasts and four and twenty elders fell down before the Lamb, having every one of them harps, and golden vials full of odours, which are the prayers of saints.

God doesn’t simply want our Requests, He wants our Relationship!

God wants our Soul winning to come from our Soul [We don’t try TO Witness, we ARE witnesses]

God wants our Fellowship to be real (We’re too ready to remember Grudges instead of Goodness).

Have you begun to take God and Fellow Saints for Granted? Need to tell God you’re sorry, tell Sinners the Gospel, and tell Saints you appreciate them.

II. THINGS GOD REMEMBERS-

A) Our Witness- Mal 3:16 17 Then they that feared the Lord spake often one to another and the Lord harkened, and heard it, and a book of remembrance was written before him for them that feared the Lord, and that thought upon his name. And they shall be mine, saith the Lord of hosts, in that day when I make up my jewels; and I will spare them, as a man spareth his own son that serveth him. Just as we have “Remembrance Books” in our homes to remind us of past events, so God keeps records of our talk and thoughts about Him.

B) Our Worship- Remember the Sabbath Day to keep it Holy. God misses every one of His “Children” when they’re absence from His house.

III. THINGS OTHERS NEED TO REMEMBER

A) The Backslider needs to REMEMBER LOT’S WIFE- She loved the world more that God and looked back and became an everlasting memorial to putting your hand to the plow and looking back. The Cares of this world, the deceitfulness of riches and the lust of other things enter in and choke the word and it becomes unfruitful. Don’t be remembered like Demas; Demas has forsaken me, having loved this present world.

B) Young People need to REMEMBER NOW THY CREATOR IN THE DAYS OF THY YOUTH. There is a Judgment to Come. Life is a vapor that appeareth for a moment and then vanisheth away. Remember this, It is appointed unto man once to die and after this the Judgment.

C) The Lost need to Remember:

1. The Rich Man- in hell he was told to remember that in this life he received his goods but now he was tormented. He’s still remembering.

2. The Thief on the Cross- he Cried to Jesus, “Remember me when thou comest to thy Kingdom” and his pain and sins are remembered no more as he dwells with the Lord. (There is something about us that the Lord doesn’t remember- Sins under the Blood: Heb 8:12 For I will be merciful to their unrightousness, and their sins and their iniquities will I remember no more. Praise the Lord!)

HAS GOD BROUGHT SOMETHING TO YOUR REMEMBRANCE TODAY THAT YOU NEED TO DEAL WITH?? IF IT’S SIN OR SLACKNESS THEN PUT IT UNDER THE BLOOD.

Psalm 22:3 PRAISE THE LORD

But thou art holy, O thou that inhabitest the praises of Israel (Psa 22:3) Amazingly, This is the Psalm that Jesus repeated on the Cross. During this time of agony and pain He gives us a very useful insight into the value and place of Praise in the life of the Christian.

I. THE HEALING POWER OF PRAISE

A) It helps our Health Prov 17:22 A merry heart doeth good like a medicine.

B) It helps our Looks Prov 15:13 A merry heart maketh a cheerful countenance: but by sorrow of heart the spirit is broken. In fact, we are admonished to wear Is 61:3 …the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness...

C) It helps our attitude Prov 15:15 He that is of a merry heart hath a continual feast. I learned long ago that you can’t Praise the Lord and grumble at the same time.

II. THE WORSHIP OF PRAISE

A) With our Lips- Heb 13:15 By him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name. (At All Times)

B) Under all Circumstances- I Thess 5:18 In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. (In All Circumstances)

C) With God’s Glory in View- Ps 50:23 Whoso offereth praise glorifieth me: and to him that ordereth his conversation aright will I shew the salvation of God. God is not glorified by our silence, our fears, our doubts, or our frustrations. He is glorified by our Praise. (For God’s Glory)

III. THE VICTORY OF PRAISE- Jehoshaphat in II Chron 20: defeated the enemey by Praise vs 22 and when they began to sing and to praise, the Lord set ambushments against the children of Ammon…

When God delivers us our first reaction should be Praise- Ps 106:47 Save us, o Lord our God, and gather us from among the heathen, to give thanks unto thy holy name, and to triumph in thy praise.

IV. THE PREPARATION OF PRAISE- Sin blocks the fountain of Joy- Ps 51:11 12 Cast me not away from thy presence; and take not thy Holy Spirit from me. Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation; and uphold me with thy free spirit.

Right living puts praise on our lips- Ps 119:7 I will praise thee with uprightenss of heart, when I shall have learned thy righteous judgments.

The inability to praise points toward a deeper problem- Matt 12:34 Out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh.

HOW SHOULD WE PRAISE? With our mouth Ps 145:21, With joyful lips Ps 63:5, with a shout Ex 3:11 (Praise the Lord is Hallelujah!!), with trumpet and sound of cornet Ps 98:6, with stringed instruments and flutes Ps 150:4

WHERE SHOULD WE PRAISE? In the gates of the camp of the Lord (II Chron 31:2), In the midst of the congregation (Ps 22:22), Among many people (Ps 35:18), Among the Nations (Ps 57:9)

WHEN SHOULD WE PRAISE? All day long (Ps 35:28), At all times (Ps 34:1), Seven times a day (Ps 119:164), Continually (Ps 71:6).

WHAT SHOULD WE PRAISE FOR? His mighty acts (Ps 150:2), His power (Ps 21:13), His excellent greatness (Ps 150:2), His word (Ps 56:4), His name (Ps 54:6), His wonders (Ps 89:5), His faithfulness (Ps 89:5)

Ps 150:6 Let everything that hath breath praise the lord. Ps 115:17 18 The dead praise not the Lord, neither any that go down into silence. But we will bless the Lord from this time forth and for evermore. Praise the Lord.