Evening Scripture Reading - Ephesians 6:14-20 American Standard Version

Stand therefore, having girded your loins with truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace; withal taking up the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the evil one. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God: with all prayer and supplication praying at all seasons in the Spirit, and watching thereunto in all perseverance and supplication for all the saints, and on my behalf, that utterance may be given unto me in opening my mouth, to make known with boldness the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains; that in it I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak.

Psalms Scripture Reading - Psalm 113:5 American Standard Version

Who is like unto Jehovah our God,

That hath his seat on high,

Proverbs Scripture Reading - Proverbs 20:24 American Standard Version

A man’s goings are of Jehovah;

How then can man understand his way?

Morning Scripture Reading - John 12:23-26 American Standard Version

And Jesus answereth them, saying, The hour is come, that the Son of man should be glorified. Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except a grain of wheat fall into the earth and die, it abideth by itself alone; but if it die, it beareth much fruit. He that loveth his life loseth it; and he that hateth his life in this world shall keep it unto life eternal. If any man serve me, let him follow me; and where I am, there shall also my servant be: if any man serve me, him will the Father honor.

Evening Scripture Reading - 1 Corinthians 4:5 American Standard Version

Wherefore judge nothing before the time, until the Lord come, who will both bring to light the hidden things of darkness, and make manifest the counsels of the hearts; and then shall each man have his praise from God.

Psalms Scripture Reading - Psalm 113:4 American Standard Version

Jehovah is high above all nations,

And his glory above the heavens.

Mid-Week Message - Mysteries

"If I speak God's Word with power, revealing all his mysteries and making everything plain as day, and if I have faith that says to a mountain, "Jump," and it jumps, but I don't love, I'm nothing."  1 Corinthians 13:2  (MSG)

I enjoy a good mystery.  In fact, I almost titled this message, "Who Killed Hank Pittleman" because that is the question in the book I am now reading.  But the eternal mysteries, those that we don't have the ability to understand completely, are not of this world but of God, and I don't want to cast any earthly shadow over any of them.  

How can the human mind grasp fully that the Lord has no beginning and no end?  Everything in our world has a beginning and an end.  Even though we say the right words when asked about His existence, we can't really understand it.  

And how can three be one?  The Trinity consists of God, Jesus and the Holy Spirit.  God in three persons, as the song says.  If Jesus is God, then how was God still in heaven while Jesus was on earth?  If Jesus is God, then why does Jesus pray to God the Father?  

How is He able to be everywhere at once?  With the billions of people on the earth, how can He hear us all at the same time?  

Mysteries.  And there are Bible scholars who can explain it all, up to a point.  

According to today's verse, all that knowledge is worthless if we don't have love.  And there are many who proclaim to be "Christians" who refuse to reach out to those who are hurting or lonely or hungry.  

There are some behind the pulpit who are terrific orators.  They can deliver a biblical message that will knock your socks off.  And some of those churches grow to unbelievable numbers.  However, one on one with some of these preachers will reveal that they actually take no interest in anything except the messages they preach.  They rely on assistant pastors to do all the "people" work because they take no interest in what their flock is going through.  

And that is the bigger mystery to me.  I don't worry about how God created the universes, or how He does any of what He does.  It is enough for me that He knows and I have placed my faith in Him and trust Him completely.  But I cannot figure out how someone could be filled with the Holy Spirit and not love their fellow human beings.  Which makes me wonder if they are truly Christians or not.  

This world is in pain.  A quick look at the news will reveal that no matter where we go, there are those who are crying out for someone to care.  If we are to be like our Savior, if we are to make any difference at all, then we must be willing to reach out with the love He has demonstrated and placed within us.  That is our purpose.  We bring glory to our Creator when we minister to those who are in need of His touch.  

"For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.  Then the righteous will answer him, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink?  When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you?  When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?'  The King will reply, 'Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine you did for me."  Matthew 25:35-40  (NIV)

Proverbs Scripture Reading - Proverbs 20:23 American Standard Version

Diverse weights are an abomination to Jehovah;

And a false balance is not good.

Morning Scripture Reading - Matthew 7:13-14 American Standard Version

Enter ye in by the narrow gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many are they that enter in thereby. For narrow is the gate, and straitened the way, that leadeth unto life, and few are they that find it.

Evening Scripture Reading - Isaiah 40:27-31 American Standard Version

Why sayest thou, O Jacob, and speakest, O Israel, My way is hid from Jehovah, and the justice due to me is passed away from my God? Hast thou not known? hast thou not heard? The everlasting God, Jehovah, the Creator of the ends of the earth, fainteth not, neither is weary; there is no searching of his understanding. He giveth power to the faint; and to him that hath no might he increaseth strength. Even the youths shall faint and be weary, and the young men shall utterly fall: but they that wait for Jehovah shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; they shall walk, and not faint.

Psalms Scripture Reading - Psalm 113:3 American Standard Version

From the rising of the sun unto the going down of the same

Jehovah’s name is to be praised.

Proverbs Scripture Reading - Proverbs 20:22 American Standard Version

Say not thou, I will recompense evil:

Wait for Jehovah, and he will save thee.

Morning Scripture Reading - John 3:5-8 American Standard Version

Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except one be born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born anew. The wind bloweth where it will, and thou hearest the voice thereof, but knowest not whence it cometh, and whither it goeth: so is every one that is born of the Spirit.

Evening Scripture Reading - 2 Corinthians 12:14 American Standard Version

Behold, this is the third time I am ready to come to you; and I will not be a burden to you: for I seek not yours, but you: for the children ought not to lay up for the parents, but the parents for the children.

Psalms Scripture Reading - Psalm 113:2 American Standard Version

Blessed be the name of Jehovah

From this time forth and for evermore.

A Cup of Love and Support

Dear Beloved Visitors,

As we embark on a new week, we're reminded of the incredible power of community, kindness, and support. Our online ministry thrives because of individuals like you, who have joined us on this journey of faith and reflection.

In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, it's easy to overlook the impact of a simple act of generosity. Today, we'd like to draw your attention to something as humble as a cup of coffee—a cup filled not just with warmth but with the potential to make a significant difference.

In the Book of Matthew, Jesus teaches us the profound significance of even the smallest acts of kindness in Matthew 10:42 (NLT): "And if you give even a cup of cold water to one of the least of my followers, you will surely be rewarded."

Just as a cup of water can refresh and sustain, a cup of coffee can symbolize your support for our online ministry. The cost of a fancy cup of coffee is often fleeting, but the impact of that same amount can be enduring. Your contribution to "Buy Me a Coffee" helps cover the expenses of running this ministry, ensuring that our messages of hope, faith, and love continue to reach those in need.

We want to express our deep appreciation for those who have already contributed. Your generosity fuels our mission and keeps our virtual doors open for seekers, believers, and anyone in search of spiritual nourishment.

For those who are considering supporting us, we invite you to think of it as more than a monetary donation. Think of it as a cup of love, a gesture of support, and a commitment to fostering a community of faith and understanding. Your contribution helps us maintain our online presence, reach a wider audience, and continue sharing the message of God's grace.

So, as you start your week, we ask you to reflect on the power of a cup of coffee. Consider the warmth and sustenance it brings, and think of the warmth and sustenance your support provides to our ministry and the lives it touches. Your contribution, no matter the size, is a testament to the love and unity we share in our faith journey.

Thank you for being a part of our community and for considering how you can help sustain our ministry. May this week be filled with blessings, and may your cup overflow with the joy of giving.

With heartfelt gratitude,

Borther Jesse

Proverbs Scripture Reading - Proverbs 20:21 American Standard Version

An inheritance may be gotten hastily at the beginning;

But the end thereof shall not be blessed.

Morning Scripture Reading - John 15:26-27 American Standard Version

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 bear witness of me: and ye also bear witness, because ye have been with me from the beginning.

The Prayer for the Week of September 18, 2023

Dear Heavenly Father,

We come before you with hearts full of gratitude for the riches you bestow upon us—riches that extend beyond the material and into the depths of our souls. We thank you for the gift of true humility and the fear of the Lord, understanding that they lead us on the path to spiritual abundance.

As we explore your Word today and delve into the meaning of true riches, may your Holy Spirit guide our hearts and minds. Help us to embrace humility, recognizing our dependence on you, and to stand firm in your grace. Fill us with the desire to share your love and generosity with those around us.

May the message we hear today inspire us to seek heavenly treasures, knowing that they are eternally secure. We offer this time to you, Lord, asking for your presence and guidance in our lives. In Jesus' name, we pray.

Amen.

Evening Scripture Reading - 1 Peter 3:8-12 American Standard Version

Finally, be ye all likeminded, compassionate, loving as brethren, tenderhearted, humbleminded: not rendering evil for evil, or reviling for reviling; but contrariwise blessing; for hereunto were ye called, that ye should inherit a blessing. For,

He that would love life,

And see good days,

Let him refrain his tongue from evil,

And his lips that they speak no guile:

And let him turn away from evil, and do good;

Let him seek peace, and pursue it.

For the eyes of the Lord are upon the righteous,

And his ears unto their supplication:

But the face of the Lord is upon them that do evil.

Psalms Scripture Reading - Psalm 113:1

True Riches and Eternal Life: The Blessings of Humility and the Fear of the Lord

In a world that often measures success by material wealth and possessions, it's essential to remember that true riches go far beyond the boundaries of our earthly possessions. As Proverbs 22:4 (NLT) wisely reminds us, "True humility and fear of the Lord lead to riches, honor, and long life."

So, what does it mean to have "true humility and fear of the Lord"?

True humility is not about thinking less of ourselves but thinking of ourselves less. It's an attitude of the heart that recognizes our dependence on God, acknowledging that every talent, every blessing, and every opportunity comes from Him. It's the willingness to serve others, to put their needs before our own, just as Jesus humbly served humanity by giving His life on the cross.

The fear of the Lord is not about trembling in terror before a harsh judge but standing in awe and reverence before a loving and merciful God. It's recognizing His holiness and submitting ourselves to His divine wisdom and guidance. This fear is not born out of dread but out of a deep, loving relationship with our Heavenly Father.

When we embrace true humility and the fear of the Lord, we open our hearts to the transformational power of God's grace. This is where the journey towards spiritual riches truly begins. It's about seeking God's will in all aspects of our lives, trusting in His divine plan, and surrendering our desires to His greater purpose.

These spiritual riches are not measured in earthly terms but in the abundance of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23, NLT). They are the honor of being called children of God and heirs of His promises (Romans 8:17, NLT). It's the assurance of eternal life in His presence (John 3:16, NLT).

While our lives may not be filled with physical riches, we can rest assured that we have riches stored up in Heaven. Matthew 6:19-20 (NLT) reminds us, "Don't store up treasures here on earth, where moths eat them and rust destroys them, and where thieves break in and steal. Store your treasures in heaven, where moths and rust cannot destroy, and thieves do not break in and steal."

What are these heavenly treasures? They are the love we show to others, the kindness we extend, the compassion we offer, and the lives we touch with the message of God's grace. These are the investments that have eternal value. When we stand firm in God's grace, we are cultivating these heavenly treasures.

Standing firm in God's grace means recognizing that our salvation and our spiritual riches are not earned through our efforts but are freely given to us through faith in Jesus Christ. Ephesians 2:8-9 (NLT) reminds us, "God saved you by his grace when you believed. And you can't take credit for this; it is a gift from God. Salvation is not a reward for the good things we have done, so none of us can boast about it."

As we understand the depth of God's grace and the riches it bestows upon us, it naturally leads to a heart that is willing to give. It prompts us to be generous in sharing our resources, time, and talents with others. When we donate, we are not merely giving away our possessions; we are sowing seeds of love and hope into the lives of those in need.

Let us remember that true riches are not found in the accumulation of material wealth, but in the depth of our relationship with God and the love we share with others. Let us stand firm in His grace, knowing that our true treasure lies in the riches of Heaven. As we donate and give generously, we are building treasures that will last for eternity.

May God's grace continue to guide us as we journey on this path of true humility, the fear of the Lord, faith, hope, and love.

Proverbs Scripture Reading - Proverbs 20:20 American Standard Version

Whoso curseth his father or his mother,

His lamp shall be put out in blackness of darkness.

Morning Scripture Reading - Matthew 24:42-44 American Standard Version

Watch therefore: for ye know not on what day your Lord cometh. But know this, that if the master of the house had known in what watch the thief was coming, he would have watched, and would not have suffered his house to be broken through. Therefore be ye also ready; for in an hour that ye think not the Son of man cometh.

Evening Scripture Reading - Romans 15:5-6 American Standard Version

Now the God of patience and of comfort grant you to be of the same mind one with another according to Christ Jesus: that with one accord ye may with one mouth glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Psalms Scripture Reading - Psalm 112:10 American Standard Version

The wicked shall see it, and be grieved;

He shall gnash with his teeth, and melt away:

The desire of the wicked shall perish.

Bible Study: Jonah 1:4 NLT

In a time long ago, in a city near the sea, there lived a man named Jonah. Jonah was chosen by God to deliver a message to a distant land, Nineveh, where the people had turned away from God's ways. However, Jonah was filled with fear and disobedience. He knew that delivering this message would be challenging, and he wanted to avoid it at all costs.

One day, Jonah made a fateful decision. Instead of setting out for Nineveh as God had commanded, he boarded a ship headed in the opposite direction, to a place called Tarshish. Jonah thought he could escape God's call by fleeing to Tarshish, but he couldn't escape God's presence or His purpose.

As the ship sailed further and further away from the path God had set for Jonah, the skies darkened, and a great storm began to brew. The wind howled, the waves crashed against the ship, and fear gripped the hearts of the sailors. They cried out to their various gods for help but to no avail. The storm raged on, growing fiercer with each passing moment.

During this chaos, Jonah had gone below deck, seeking shelter from the storm and hiding from God's call. He knew that he was the cause of this tempest. In the depths of the ship, Jonah reflected on his disobedience. He realized that his actions not only endangered himself but also the lives of innocent sailors.

I am sure that Jonah, in his despair, would have remembered the words of Psalm 139:7-10 (NLT): "I can never escape from your Spirit! I can never get away from your presence! If I go up to heaven, you are there; if I go down to the grave, you are there. If I ride the wings of the morning, if I dwell by the farthest oceans, even there your hand will guide me, and your strength will support me."

With a heavy heart, Jonah confessed his disobedience to the sailors and urged them to throw him into the raging sea, for he knew that it was his actions that had brought this storm upon them. The sailors, after realizing the gravity of the situation, reluctantly followed Jonah's plea.

As Jonah was cast into the churning waters, something miraculous happened. The storm ceased instantly, and the sea grew calm. The sailors, witnessing the power of the God Jonah served, offered sacrifices and made vows to Him.

Jonah, on the other hand, found himself swallowed by a great fish, as described in Jonah 1:17 (NLT): "Now the Lord had arranged for a great fish to swallow Jonah. And Jonah was inside the fish for three days and three nights."

Inside the belly of the fish, Jonah repented and prayed for forgiveness. He realized that even in his disobedience, God's mercy was extended to him. Jonah's prayer in Jonah 2:2-6 (NLT) expressed his humble acknowledgment of God's sovereignty and his longing to fulfill the mission God had assigned him.

After three days and nights, the fish vomited Jonah onto dry land, and he was given a second chance to fulfill God's call. This time, Jonah was determined to obey, and he set out on the journey to Nineveh.

The story of Jonah teaches us that even in our disobedience, God's love and mercy pursue us. He may use storms in our lives to get our attention and guide us back to His path. It reminds us that no matter how far we stray, we are never beyond the reach of God's grace and forgiveness. Jonah's story serves as a powerful lesson about obedience, repentance, and the boundless love of our Heavenly Father.

Proverbs Scripture Reading - Proverbs 20:19 American Standard Version

He that goeth about as a tale-bearer revealeth secrets;

Therefore company not with him that openeth wide his lips.

Morning Scripture Reading - Mark 9:38-41 American Standard Version

John said unto him, Teacher, we saw one casting out demons in thy name; and we forbade him, because he followed not us. But Jesus said, Forbid him not: for there is no man who shall do a mighty work in my name, and be able quickly to speak evil of me. For he that is not against us is for us. For whosoever shall give you a cup of water to drink, because ye are Christ’s, verily I say unto you, he shall in no wise lose his reward.

Evening Scripture Reading - Romans 8:5-8 American Standard Version

For they that are after the flesh mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit. For the mind of the flesh is death; but the mind of the Spirit is life and peace: because the mind of the flesh is enmity against God; for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can it be: and they that are in the flesh cannot please God.

Psalms Scripture Reading - Psalm 112:9 American Standard Version

He hath dispersed, he hath given to the needy;

His righteousness endureth for ever:

His horn shall be exalted with honor.

Proverbs Scripture Reading - Proverbs 20:18 American Standard Version

Every purpose is established by counsel;

And by wise guidance make thou war.

Morning Scripture Reading - Luke 11:37-41 American Standard Version

Now as he spake, a Pharisee asketh him to dine with him: and he went in, and sat down to meat. And when the Pharisee saw it, he marvelled that he had not first bathed himself before dinner. And the Lord said unto him, Now ye the Pharisees cleanse the outside of the cup and of the platter; but your inward part is full of extortion and wickedness. Ye foolish ones, did not he that made the outside make the inside also? But give for alms those things which are within; and behold, all things are clean unto you.