Ask for Wisdom

If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all [men] liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him. James 1:5

Greetings from James
This letter is from James, a slave of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ.
It is written to Jewish Christians scattered among the nations.*
Greetings!
Faith and Endurance
2 Dear brothers and sisters,* whenever trouble comes your way, let it be an opportunity for joy. 3 For when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. 4 So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be strong in character and ready for anything.
5 If you need wisdom-if you want to know what God wants you to do-ask him, and he will gladly tell you. He will not resent your asking. 6 But when you ask him, be sure that you really expect him to answer, for a doubtful mind is as unsettled as a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind. 7 People like that should not expect to receive anything from the Lord. 8 They can't make up their minds. They waver back and forth in everything they do.
9 Christians who are* poor should be glad, for God has honored them. 10 And those who are rich should be glad, for God has humbled them. They will fade away like a flower in the field. 11 The hot sun rises and dries up the grass; the flower withers, and its beauty fades away. So also, wealthy people will fade away with all of their achievements.
12 God blesses the people who patiently endure testing. Afterward they will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him. 13 And remember, no one who wants to do wrong should ever say, "God is tempting me." God is never tempted to do wrong, and he never tempts anyone else either. 14 Temptation comes from the lure of our own evil desires. 15 These evil desires lead to evil actions, and evil actions lead to death. 16 So don't be misled, my dear brothers and sisters.
17 Whatever is good and perfect comes to us from God above, who created all heaven's lights.* Unlike them, he never changes or casts shifting shadows. 18 In his goodness he chose to make us his own children by giving us his true word. And we, out of all creation, became his choice possession.
Listening and Doing
19 My dear brothers and sisters, be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry. 20 Your anger can never make things right in God's sight.
21 So get rid of all the filth and evil in your lives, and humbly accept the message God has planted in your hearts, for it is strong enough to save your souls.
22 And remember, it is a message to obey, not just to listen to. If you don't obey, you are only fooling yourself. 23 For if you just listen and don't obey, it is like looking at your face in a mirror but doing nothing to improve your appearance. 24 You see yourself, walk away, and forget what you look like. 25 But if you keep looking steadily into God's perfect law-the law that sets you free-and if you do what it says and don't forget what you heard, then God will bless you for doing it.
26 If you claim to be religious but don't control your tongue, you are just fooling yourself, and your religion is worthless. 27 Pure and lasting religion in the sight of God our Father means that we must care for orphans and widows in their troubles, and refuse to let the world corrupt us.
James 1 (NLT)

Christ, the Way the Truth, The Life

Jesus saith unto him, "I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.
If ye had known me, ye should have known my Father also: and from henceforth ye know him, and have seen him". John 14:6,7

Jesus Christ is the only way. He is the Light of the World and He is the Way to life everlasting. He is the Truth. Truth is Light.

I love to review all this for my own life. It confirms my faith al over again. Like the old hymn,

1. I love to tell the story
of unseen things above,
of Jesus and his glory,
of Jesus and his love.
I love to tell the story,
because I know 'tis true;
it satisfies my longings
as nothing else can do.
Refrain:
I love to tell the story,
'twill be my theme in glory,
to tell the old, old story
of Jesus and his love.
2. I love to tell the story;
more wonderful it seems
than all the golden fancies
of all our golden dreams.
I love to tell the story,
it did so much for me;
and that is just the reason
I tell it now to thee.
(Refrain)
3. I love to tell the story;
'tis pleasant to repeat
what seems, each time I tell it,
more wonderfully sweet.
I love to tell the story,
for some have never heard
the message of salvation
from God's own holy Word.
(Refrain)
4. I love to tell the story,
for those who know it best
seem hungering and thirsting
to hear it like the rest.
And when, in scenes of glory,
I sing the new, new song,
'twill be the old, old story
that I have loved so long.
(Refrain)


So think about this...In what condition are all men naturally?
"But the scripture hath concluded all under sin, that the promise by faith of Jesus Christ might be given to them that believe." Galatians 3:22.
"For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God." Romans 3:23.

and...What is the wages of sin?
"For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord." Romans 6:23.

but...What is the gift of God?
"For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord." Romans 6:23.

therefore...In whom is now this gift?
"This is the record, that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in his Son." 1 John 5:11.

Just how many may have this life?
"And the Spirit and the bride say, Come. And let him that heareth say, Come. And let him that is athirst come. And whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely." Revelation 22:17.
"He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life." 1 John 5:12.

and ... Just what must one do or how must one have Christ?
"Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves. Know ye not your own selves, how that Jesus Christ is in you, except ye be reprobates?" 2 Corinthians 13:5.

How do we really, truly have Christ in us unto eternal life?
"Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me hath everlasting life." John 6:47.

What follows the reception of Christ?
"I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me." Galatians 2:20.

How are all regarded before they are quickened with Christ?
"God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved.)" Ephesians 2:4, 5.

What is this spiritual transition from death to life called?
"Being born again, not of corruptible seed; but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever." 1 Peter 1:23.

When our first parents transgressed, what was done to prevent them from living forever in sin?
"And the LORD God said, Behold, the man is become as one of us, to know good and evil: and now, lest he put forth his hand, and take also of the tree of life, and eat, and live for ever:" "And now, lest he put forth his hand, and take also of the tree of life, and eat, and live forever." "So he drove out the man; and he placed at the east of the garden of Eden Cherubims, and a flaming sword which turned every way, to keep the way of the tree of life." Genesis 3:22, 24.

By whom did the Lord say that Satan, the originator of sin, should be destroyed?
"And I will put enmity between thee and the woman, and between thy seed and her seed; it shall bruise thy head, and thou shalt bruise his heel." Genesis 3:15.

For what purpose did Christ die?
"Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, he also himself likewise took part of the same; that through death he might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil." Hebrews 2:14.

How early was it determined that Christ should die?
"And all that dwell upon the earth shall worship him, whose names are not written in the book of life of the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world." Revelation 13:8.

Through whom was Abraham to receive the promise of God?
"And the LORD appeared unto Abram, and said, Unto thy seed will I give this land: and there builded he an altar unto the LORD, who appeared unto him." Genesis 12:7.

How far was the promise to Abraham to extend?
"Ye are the children of the prophets, and of the covenant which God made with our fathers, saying unto Abraham, And in thy seed shall all the kindreds of the earth be blessed." Acts 3:25.

Notice, to whom the "seed" of the Old Testament refers...
"Now to Abraham and his seed were the promises made. He saith not, And to seeds, as of many; but as of one, And to thy seed, which is Christ." Galatians 3:16.

How did the Lord regard Abraham's faith?
"For what saith the scripture? Abraham believed God, and it was counted unto him for righteousness." Romans 4:3.
Abraham had faith in Jesus, beforehand, he believed GOD's promise.

Since man had sinned, if righteousness could come by the law, then what must we conclude?
"I do not frustrate the grace of God: for if righteousness come by the law, then Christ is dead in vain." Galatians 2:21.

Why have we all been reckoned under sin?
"But the scripture hath concluded all under sin, that the promise by faith of Christ Jesus might be given to them that believe." Galatians 3:22.

So, once again, what does Christ become to the true believer?
"Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me." John 14:6.

How then do all become children of God?
"For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus." Galatians 3:26.

If children of God, what is our future?
"And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together." Romans 8:17.

Walk not as the children of disobedience

" But fornication, and all uncleanness, or covetousness, let it not be once named among you, as becometh saints;
Neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor jesting, which are not convenient: but rather giving of thanks.
For this ye know, that no whoremonger, nor unclean person, nor covetous man, who is an idolater, hath any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God.
Let no man deceive you with vain words: for because of these things cometh the wrath of God upon the children of disobedience.
Be not ye therefore partakers with them." Ephesians 5:3-7

The Dangers of the Last Days
You should also know this, Timothy, that in the last days there will be very difficult times. 2 For people will love only themselves and their money. They will be boastful and proud, scoffing at God, disobedient to their parents, and ungrateful. They will consider nothing sacred. 3 They will be unloving and unforgiving; they will slander others and have no self-control; they will be cruel and have no interest in what is good. 4 They will betray their friends, be reckless, be puffed up with pride, and love pleasure rather than God. 5 They will act as if they are religious, but they will reject the power that could make them godly. You must stay away from people like that. 6 They are the kind who work their way into people's homes and win the confidence of* vulnerable women who are burdened with the guilt of sin and controlled by many desires. 7 Such women are forever following new teachings, but they never understand the truth. 8 And these teachers fight the truth just as Jannes and Jambres fought against Moses. Their minds are depraved, and their faith is counterfeit. 9 But they won't get away with this for long. Someday everyone will recognize what fools they are, just as happened with Jannes and Jambres. Paul's Charge to Timothy 10 But you know what I teach, Timothy, and how I live, and what my purpose in life is. You know my faith and how long I have suffered. You know my love and my patient endurance. 11 You know how much persecution and suffering I have endured. You know all about how I was persecuted in Antioch, Iconium, and Lystra-but the Lord delivered me from all of it. 12 Yes, and everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution. 13 But evil people and impostors will flourish. They will go on deceiving others, and they themselves will be deceived. 14 But you must remain faithful to the things you have been taught. You know they are true, for you know you can trust those who taught you. 15 You have been taught the holy Scriptures from childhood, and they have given you the wisdom to receive the salvation that comes by trusting in Christ Jesus. 16 All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It straightens us out and teaches us to do what is right. 17 It is God's way of preparing us in every way, fully equipped for every good thing God wants us to do.
II Timothy 3 (NLT)

Walk in Love

“Therefore be imitators of God as dear children. And walk in
love, as Christ also has loved us and given Himself for us, an offering
and a sacrifice to God for a sweet-smelling aroma” (Eph. 5:1,
2, NKJV).

If I could speak in any language in heaven or on earth* but didn't love others, I would only be making meaningless noise like a loud gong or a clanging cymbal. 2 If I had the gift of prophecy, and if I knew all the mysteries of the future and knew everything about everything, but didn't love others, what good would I be? And if I had the gift of faith so that I could speak to a mountain and make it move, without love I would be no good to anybody. 3 If I gave everything I have to the poor and even sacrificed my body, I could boast about it;* but if I didn't love others, I would be of no value whatsoever.
4 Love is patient and kind. Love is not jealous or boastful or proud 5 or rude. Love does not demand its own way. Love is not irritable, and it keeps no record of when it has been wronged. 6 It is never glad about injustice but rejoices whenever the truth wins out. 7 Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance.
8 Love will last forever, but prophecy and speaking in unknown languages* and special knowledge will all disappear. 9 Now we know only a little, and even the gift of prophecy reveals little! 10 But when the end comes, these special gifts will all disappear.
11 It's like this: When I was a child, I spoke and thought and reasoned as a child does. But when I grew up, I put away childish things. 12 Now we see things imperfectly as in a poor mirror, but then we will see everything with perfect clarity.* All that I know now is partial and incomplete, but then I will know everything completely, just as God knows me now.
13 There are three things that will endure-faith, hope, and love-and the greatest of these is love.

I Corinthians 13 (NLT)

Live as Children of the LIGHT

“For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light” (Ephesians 5:8, NIV).

"This then is the message which we have heard of him, and declare unto you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all." 1John 1:5

...And Jesus said...

"Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid.

Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house.

Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.

Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil.

For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled.

Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven: but whosoever shall do and teach [them], the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven."
Matthew 5:14-19

Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life. John 8:12

"I am come a light into the world, that whosoever believeth on me should not abide in darkness.

And if any man hear my words, and believe not, I judge him not: for I came not to judge the world, but to save the world.

He that rejecteth me, and receiveth not my words, hath one that judgeth him: the word that I have spoken, the same shall judge him in the last day.

For I have not spoken of myself; but the Father which sent me, he gave me a commandment, what I should say, and what I should speak.

And I know that his commandment is life everlasting: whatsoever I speak therefore, even as the Father said unto me, so I speak." John 12:46-50

"For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.

He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.

And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil.

For every one that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved.

But he that doeth truth cometh to the light, that his deeds may be made manifest, that they are wrought in God. "
John 3:16-21

Right Thinking leads to Thanking GOD

How should we think? What does GOD tell us in HIS WORD about how we should think?
"Finally, brethren,
whatsoever things are true,
whatsoever things [are] honest,
whatsoever things [are] just,
whatsoever things [are] pure,
whatsoever things [are] lovely,
whatsoever things [are] of good report;
if [there be] any virtue,
and if [there be] any praise,
think on these things. "
Philippians 4:8

Yes, GOD wants us to have a positive attitude. HE wants us to look at the best side of all things and look for how HE can use these things for HIS good work. HE is an expert at making good things come forth from bad things.

Let Us Do What Is Good (listen to what GOD is say ing in the third chapter if the book of Titus)

Remind your people to submit to the government and its officers. They should be obedient, always ready to do what is good. 2 They must not speak evil of anyone, and they must avoid quarreling. Instead, they should be gentle and show true humility to everyone.
3 Once we, too, were foolish and disobedient. We were misled by others and became slaves to many wicked desires and evil pleasures. Our lives were full of evil and envy. We hated others, and they hated us.
4 But then God our Savior showed us his kindness and love. 5 He saved us, not because of the good things we did, but because of his mercy. He washed away our sins and gave us a new life through the Holy Spirit.* 6 He generously poured out the Spirit upon us because of what Jesus Christ our Savior did. 7 He declared us not guilty because of his great kindness. And now we know that we will inherit eternal life. 8 These things I have told you are all true. I want you to insist on them so that everyone who trusts in God will be careful to do good deeds all the time. These things are good and beneficial for everyone.
Paul's Final Remarks and Greetings
9 Do not get involved in foolish discussions about spiritual pedigrees* or in quarrels and fights about obedience to Jewish laws. These kinds of things are useless and a waste of time. 10 If anyone is causing divisions among you, give a first and second warning. After that, have nothing more to do with that person. 11 For people like that have turned away from the truth. They are sinning, and they condemn themselves.
12 I am planning to send either Artemas or Tychicus to you. As soon as one of them arrives, do your best to meet me at Nicopolis as quickly as you can, for I have decided to stay there for the winter. 13 Do everything you can to help Zenas the lawyer and Apollos with their trip. See that they are given everything they need. 14 For our people should not have unproductive lives. They must learn to do good by helping others who have urgent needs.
15 Everybody here sends greetings. Please give my greetings to all of the believers who love us.
May God's grace be with you all.

Giving Thanks and Praise to GOD

"Give thanks to the Lord; his faithful love endures forever!"
Psalm 150:1
Praise ye the LORD. Praise God in his sanctuary: praise him in the firmament of his power.

Psalm 150:2
Praise him for his mighty acts: praise him according to his excellent greatness.

Psalm 150:3
Praise him with the sound of the trumpet: praise him with the psaltery and harp.

Psalm 150:4
Praise him with the timbrel and dance: praise him with stringed instruments and organs.

Psalm 150:5
Praise him upon the loud cymbals: praise him upon the high sounding cymbals.

Psalm 150:6
Let every thing that hath breath praise the LORD. Praise ye the LORD.

So, why were all things created?
"Thou art worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honor and power; for thou hast created all things, and for thy pleasure they are and were created." Rev. 4:11.

Does man in his natural condition carry out the design of God?
"For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God." Rom. 3:23.

While we were in this state, what did the Lord do for us?
"But God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us." Rom. 5:8.

Through what is man permitted to come to repentance?
"Or despisest thou the riches of His goodness and forbearance and longsuffering; not knowing that the goodness of God leadeth thee to repentance?" Rom. 2:4.

What does Christ become to those who accept Him?
"To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory." Col. 1:27.

When this grace is received, what will it cause one to do?
"By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God." Rom. 5:2.

On what condition are we to remain members of Christ's household?
"But Christ as a son over His own house: whose house are we, if we hold fast the confidence and the rejoicing of the hope firm unto the end." Heb. 3:6.

How often, and for how much, should we render thanks to God?
"Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ." Eph. 5:20.

The "all things" of the last text, includes our trials and disappointments. Why should we give thanks for them?
"And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God." Rom. 8:28.

What did Paul and Silas do when put in prison for their faith?
"And at midnight Paul and Silas prayed, and sang praises unto God: and the prisoners heard them." Acts 16:25.

How did the Lord show His pleasure at their course?
"And suddenly there was a great earthquake, so that the foundations of the prison were shaken: and immediately all the doors were opened, and everyone's bands were loosed." Acts 16:26.

After being imprisoned, and then beaten by order of the Jewish Sanhedrin, what did Peter and John do?
"Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted within me? Hope thou in God; for I shall yet praise Him, who is the health of my countenance, and my God." Ps. 42:11.

When properly offered, what does praise to God become?
"Whoso offereth praise glorifieth Me; and to him that ordereth his conversation aright will I show the salvation of God." Ps. 50:23.

Should our praise to God be confined to our secret devotions?
"My praise shall be of thee in the great congregation: I will pay my vows before them that fear Him." Ps. 22:25.

Why ought we thus to praise God?
"My soul shall make her boast in the Lord: the humble shall hear thereof, and be glad. " Ps. 34:2. "And when they began to sing and to praise, the Lord set ambushments against the children of Ammon, Moab, and Mount Seir, which were come against Judah: and they were smitten." 2 Chron. 20:22.

How should one approach God in prayer?
"Be careful for nothing; but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God." Phil, 4:6 (Col. 4:2),

What is the will of God in this matter concerning us?
"In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you." 1 Thess. 5:18.

What has our Saviour taught us to pray?
"Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven." Matt. 6:10.

What does David exhort all to do?
"O magnify the Lord with me, and let us exalt His name together." Ps. 34:3.

What good example did he set which is worthy of imitation by us when with our brethren?
"Come and hear, all ye that fear God, and I will declare what He hath done for my soul." Ps. 66:16.

What became of those, anciently, who were not thankful?
"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." Rom. 1:21.

What signal deliverance was once wrought for God's people when they offered praise to Him?
NOTE. - See below 2 Chronicles 20:1-30. It is a most thrilling account of deliverance from the enemies of God and His people. (new living translation)
War with Moab, Ammon, and Edom
After this, the armies of the Moabites, Ammonites, and some of the Meunites* declared war on Jehoshaphat. 2 Messengers came and told Jehoshaphat, "A vast army from Edom* is marching against you from beyond the Dead Sea.* They are already at Hazazon-tamar." (This was another name for En-gedi.) 3 Jehoshaphat was alarmed by this news and sought the Lord for guidance. He also gave orders that everyone throughout Judah should observe a fast. 4 So people from all the towns of Judah came to Jerusalem to seek the Lord.
5 Jehoshaphat stood before the people of Judah and Jerusalem in front of the new courtyard at the Temple of the Lord. 6 He prayed, "O Lord, God of our ancestors, you alone are the God who is in heaven. You are ruler of all the kingdoms of the earth. You are powerful and mighty; no one can stand against you! 7 O our God, did you not drive out those who lived in this land when your people arrived? And did you not give this land forever to the descendants of your friend Abraham? 8 Your people settled here and built this Temple for you. 9 They said, `Whenever we are faced with any calamity such as war, disease, or famine, we can come to stand in your presence before this Temple where your name is honored. We can cry out to you to save us, and you will hear us and rescue us.'
10 "And now see what the armies of Ammon, Moab, and Mount Seir are doing. You would not let our ancestors invade those nations when Israel left Egypt, so they went around them and did not destroy them. 11 Now see how they reward us! For they have come to throw us out of your land, which you gave us as an inheritance. 12 O our God, won't you stop them? We are powerless against this mighty army that is about to attack us. We do not know what to do, but we are looking to you for help."
13 As all the men of Judah stood before the Lord with their little ones, wives, and children, 14 the Spirit of the Lord came upon one of the men standing there. His name was Jahaziel son of Zechariah, son of Benaiah, son of Jeiel, son of Mattaniah, a Levite who was a descendant of Asaph. 15 He said, "Listen, King Jehoshaphat! Listen, all you people of Judah and Jerusalem! This is what the Lord says: Do not be afraid! Don't be discouraged by this mighty army, for the battle is not yours, but God's. 16 Tomorrow, march out against them. You will find them coming up through the ascent of Ziz at the end of the valley that opens into the wilderness of Jeruel. 17 But you will not even need to fight. Take your positions; then stand still and watch the Lord's victory. He is with you, O people of Judah and Jerusalem. Do not be afraid or discouraged. Go out there tomorrow, for the Lord is with you!"
18 Then King Jehoshaphat bowed down with his face to the ground. And all the people of Judah and Jerusalem did the same, worshiping the Lord. 19 Then the Levites from the clans of Kohath and Korah stood to praise the Lord, the God of Israel, with a very loud shout.
20 Early the next morning the army of Judah went out into the wilderness of Tekoa. On the way Jehoshaphat stopped and said, "Listen to me, all you people of Judah and Jerusalem! Believe in the Lord your God, and you will be able to stand firm. Believe in his prophets, and you will succeed." 21 After consulting the leaders of the people, the king appointed singers to walk ahead of the army, singing to the Lord and praising him for his holy splendor. This is what they sang:
"Give thanks to the Lord;
his faithful love endures forever!"
22 At the moment they began to sing and give praise, the Lord caused the armies of Ammon, Moab, and Mount Seir to start fighting among themselves. 23 The armies of Moab and Ammon turned against their allies from Mount Seir and killed every one of them. After they had finished off the army of Seir, they turned on each other.
24 So when the army of Judah arrived at the lookout point in the wilderness, there were dead bodies lying on the ground for as far as they could see. Not a single one of the enemy had escaped. 25 King Jehoshaphat and his men went out to gather the plunder. They found vast amounts of equipment, clothing,* and other valuables-more than they could carry. There was so much plunder that it took them three days just to collect it all! 26 On the fourth day they gathered in the Valley of Blessing,* which got its name that day because the people praised and thanked the Lord there. It is still called the Valley of Blessing today.
27 Then they returned to Jerusalem, with Jehoshaphat leading them, full of joy that the Lord had given them victory over their enemies. 28 They marched into Jerusalem to the music of harps, lyres, and trumpets and proceeded to the Temple of the Lord. 29 When the surrounding kingdoms heard that the Lord himself had fought against the enemies of Israel, the fear of God came over them. 30 So Jehoshaphat's kingdom was at peace, for his God had given him rest on every side.

How to Forgive Others

GOD gives us reminders of how to love like HE loves. Forgiving others teaches us about ourselves as well as about our GOD. Each time, as we come to HIS alter of prayer HE asks us first to review if there is anyone that we need to forgive

What should be our attitude in prayer?
"And when ye stand praying, forgive, if ye have aught against any; that your Father also which is in heaven, may forgive you your trespasses." Mark 11:25.

Will God pardon the unforgiving?
"But if ye do not forgive, neither will your Father which is in heaven forgive your trespasses." Mark 11:26.

How should we ask for pardon?
"And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors." Matt. 6:12.

Just how many times should we forgive?
"Then came Peter to Him, and said, Lord, how oft shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? till seven times? Jesus saith unto him, I say not unto thee, Until seven times, but, Until seventy times seven." Matt. 18:21, 22.
Can you imagine keeping score? ... something like this..."Ah ha! now you have sinned against me 490 times, so I don't have to forgive you the next time. You better watch out because I am gonna let you have it the next time."
O course, GOD is actually showing us how foolish that would be,

Does Jesus have any parables to teach us about forgiveness?
"Therefore is the kingdom of heaven likened unto a certain king, which would take account of his servants. And when he had begun to reckon, one was brought unto him, which owed him ten thousand talents. But forasmuch as he had not to pay, his lord commanded him to be sold, and his wife, and children, and all that he had, and payment to be made. The servant therefore fell down, and worshiped him, saying, Lord, have patience with me, and I will pay thee all. Then the lord of that servant was moved with compassion, and loosed him, and forgave him the debt. But the same servant went out, and found one of his fellow servants, which owed him a hundred pence; and he laid hands on him, and took him by the throat, saying, Pay me that thou owest. And his fellow servant fell down at his feet, and besought him, saying, Have patience with me, and I will pay thee all. And he would not; but went and cast him into prison, till he should pay the debt. So when his fellow servants saw what was done, they were very sorry, and came and told unto their lord all that was done." Matt. 18:23-31.

How should we deal with those that sin? What if the sin is against us? What feeling should actuate us?
"Shouldest not thou also have had compassion on thy fellow servant, even as I had pity on thee?" Matt. 18:33.

What if we do not really feel like forgiving someone? What if we feel something like this... "I know I should forgive, but I don't feel like it, oh well I will say I forgive anyway, but I really cannot bring myself to really forgive".
"So likewise shall My heavenly Father do also unto you, if ye from your hearts forgive not everyone his brother their trespasses." Matt. 18:35.

How should we bestow mercy?
"Or he that exhorteth, on exhortation: he that giveth, let him do it with simplicity; he that ruleth, with diligence; he that showeth mercy, with cheerfulness." Rom. 12:8.

What should we do when a sin is confessed?
"So that contrariwise ye ought rather to forgive him, and comfort him, lest perhaps such a one should be swallowed up with overmuch sorrow." 2 Cor. 2:7.

When we work to restoe one overtaken in a fault, what grace should we exemplify?
"Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such a one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted." Gal. 6:1.

Whose example are we to follow in forgiving?
"Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you so also do ye." Col. 3:13.


Did GOD forbid "keeping score" or grudging in the early days?
"Thou shalt not avenge, nor bear any grudge against the children of thy people, but thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself: I am the Lord." Lev. 19:18.

What says the New Testament about this?
Grudge not one against another, brethren, lest ye be condemned; behold, the Judge standeth before the door." James 5:9.

Does one forgive who holds a grudge?
Some when pretending to forgive, say: "I can forgive, but I cannot forget." Such "hold a grudge."

What specific petition in the Lord's prayer, is the only one to which the Master adds a comment?
"And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors." "For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you; but if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses." Matt. 6: 12, 14, 15.

Forgiving Like GOD Forgives

Let us learn to forgive one another in the same way as GOD has forgiven us.

In what way has God dealt with repentant sinners?
"He hath not dealt with us after our sins; nor rewarded us according to our iniquities." Ps.103:10.

Why has He dealt thus with men?
"For as the heaven is high above the earth, so great is His mercy toward them that fear Him." Ps. 103:11.

What is God ready to do for all who call upon Him?
"For thou, Lord, art good, and ready to forgive; and plenteous in mercy unto all them that call upon thee." Ps. 86:5.

When Abraham asked God to spare Sodom if He should find ten righteous persons therein, what did the Lord say?
"And he said, Oh let not the Lord be angry, and I will speak yet but this once: Peradventure ten shall be found there. And He said, I will not destroy it for ten's sake." Gen. 18:32.

What prayer did Moses offer in behalf of Israel?
"Pardon, I beseech Thee, the iniquity of this people according unto the greatness of Thy mercy, and as Thou hast forgiven this people, from Egypt even until now." Num. 14:19.

What reply did the Lord immediately make?
"And the Lord said, I have pardoned according to Thy word." Num. 14:20.

When David confessed his great sin, what did God do for him?
"I acknowledged my sin unto Thee, and mine iniquity have I not hid. I said, I will confess my transgressions unto the Lord; and Thou forgavest the iniquity of my sin." Ps. 32:5.

Does the lord forgive sins when they are confessed to Him?
"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.

How full is the Lord's forgiveness, when one fulfills the conditions?
"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." Isa. 55:7.

In what special manner has God shown His willingness to forgive the sinner?
"But God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us." Rom. 5:8.

What does this wonderful manifestation on the part of God, tell us?
"He that spared not His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how shall He not with Him also freely give us all things?" Rom. 8:32.

Why has such full provision been made?
"The Lord is not slack concerning His promise, as some men count slackness; but is long-suffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance." 2 Peter 3:9.

When the prodigal son, in the parable, repented and turned toward home, what did his father do?
"And he arose, and came to his father. But when he was yet a great way off, his father saw him, and had compassion, and ran, and fell on his neck, and kissed him." Luke 15:20.

Upon the son's asking to be made only a hired servant, what order was issued in behalf of the penitent one?
"But the father said to his servants, Bring forth the best robe, and put it on him; and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet: and bring hither the fatted calf, and kill it; and let us eat, and be merry: For this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found. And they began to be merry." Luke 15:22-24.

Is God willing to do for His children as earthly parents are for theirs?
"If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children: how much more shall your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to them that ask Him?" Luke 11:13.

How many receive forgiveness from God?
"Everyone that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened." Matt. 7:8.

Does the Lord forget the cries of those who call upon Him?
"Can a woman forget her sucking child?...Yea, they may forget, yet will I not forget thee." Isa. 49:15.

One In The Spirit

"I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called, with all lowliness and meekness, with long suffering, forbearing one another in love; endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace." Eph. 4:1-3

In what did Christ ask the Father in behalf of all that would be His disciples?
"Holy Father, keep through thine own name those whom thou hast given Me, that they may be one, as We are." John 17:11.

Why did Jesus say HE prayed this prayer?
"That they all may be one; as Thou, Father, art in Me, and I in Thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that Thou has sent Me." John 17:21.

What did the apostle Paul teach about this?
"Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment." 1 Cor. 1:10.

As Christians what do we become?
"Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular." 1 Cor. 12:27.

And being members of Christ's body, how are we to relate to one another?
"So we, being many, are one body in Christ, and every one members one of another." Rom. 12:5.

As fellow Christians, how are we to care for one another
"That there should be no schism in the body: but that the members should have the same care one for another." 1 Cor. 12:25.

As true Christians, no matter what denomination, what may we expect as that great day approaches?
"Thy watchmen shall lift up the voice; with the voice together shall they sing: for they shall see eye to eye, when the Lord shall bring again Zion." Isa. 52:8.

When the lord comes, what will be the united cry of these faithful ones?
"And it shall be said in that day, Lo, this is our God; we have waited for Him, and He will save us: this is the lord; we have waited for Him, we will be glad and rejoice in His salvation." Isa. 25:9.

How the Church can be in Unity

Jhn 17:11
And now I am no more in the world, but these are in the world, and I come to thee. Holy Father, keep through thine own name those whom thou hast given me, that they may be one, as we [are].

Jhn 17:12
While I was with them in the world, I kept them in thy name: those that thou gavest me I have kept, and none of them is lost, but the son of perdition; that the scripture might be fulfilled.

Jhn 17:13
And now come I to thee; and these things I speak in the world, that they might have my joy fulfilled in themselves.

Jhn 17:14
I have given them thy word; and the world hath hated them, because they are not of the world, even as I am not of the world.

Jhn 17:15
I pray not that thou shouldest take them out of the world, but that thou shouldest keep them from the evil.

Jhn 17:16
They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world.

Jhn 17:17
Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth.

Jhn 17:18
As thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world.

Jhn 17:19
And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth.

Jhn 17:20
Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word;

Jhn 17:21
That they all may be one; as thou, Father, [art] in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me.

Jhn 17:22
And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one:

Jhn 17:23
I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me

Psa 133:1
[[A Song of degrees of David.]] Behold, how good and how pleasant [it is] for brethren to dwell together in unity!

Psa 133:2
[It is] like the precious ointment upon the head, that ran down upon the beard, [even] Aaron's beard: that went down to the skirts of his garments;

Psa 133:3
As the dew of Hermon, [and as the dew] that descended upon the mountains of Zion: for there the LORD commanded the blessing, [even] life for evermore.



Eph 4:1
I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called,

Eph 4:2
With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love;

Eph 4:3
Endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.

Eph 4:4
[There is] one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling;

Eph 4:5
One Lord, one faith, one baptism,

Eph 4:6
One God and Father of all, who [is] above all, and through all, and in you all.

Eph 4:7
But unto every one of us is given grace according to the measure of the gift of Christ.

Eph 4:8
Wherefore he saith, When he ascended up on high, he led captivity captive, and gave gifts unto men.



Eph 4:13
Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ:

Eph 4:14
That we [henceforth] be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, [and] cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive;

Eph 4:15
But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, [even] Christ:

Eph 4:16
From whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love.

Fear No Evil

Psa 23:1
[[A Psalm of David.]] The LORD [is] my shepherd; I shall not want.

Psa 23:2
He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.

Psa 23:3
He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake.

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

Psa 23:5
Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.

Psa 23:6
Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever.
There once was a Shakespearean actor who was known everywhere for his one-man shows of readings and recitations from the classics. He would always end his performance with a reading of Psalm 23.

Each night, without exception, as the actor began his recitation-- "The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not want" ... the crowd would listen attentively. And then, at the conclusion of the psalm, they would rise in thunderous applause in appreciation of the actor's incredible ability to bring the verse to life.

But one night, just before the actor was to offer his customary recital of Psalm 23, a young man from the audience spoke up. "Sir, do you mind if tonight I recite Psalm 23?"

The actor was quite taken aback by this unusual request, but he allowed the young man to come forward and stand front and center on the stage to recite the Psalm, knowing that the ability of this unskilled youth would be no match for his own talent.

With a soft voice, the young man began to recite the words of the Psalm. When he was finished, there was no applause. There was no standing ovation as on other nights. All that could be heard was the sound of weeping. The audience had been so moved by the young
man's recitation that every eye was full of tears.

Amazed by what he had heard, /the actor said to the youth, "I don't understand. I have been performing Psalm 23 for years. I have a lifetime of experience and training-but I have never been able to move an audience as you have tonight. Tell me, what is your
secret?"

The young man quietly replied, "Well sir, you know the Psalm. I know the Shepherd."

The Grace of Meekness

What class of persons will the Lord direct?
"The meek will He guide in judgment; and the meek will He teach His way." Ps. 25:9.
NOTE. - Meek.- "Mild of temper; not easily provoked or irritated; given to forbearance under injuries; soft; gentle; yielding." - Webster.

Who could truly say he possessed this principle?
"Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart and ye shall find rest unto your souls." Matt. 11:29.

Who was the meekest man on earth before Christ came?
"Now the man Moses was very meek, above all the men which were upon the face of the earth." Num. 12:3.

Of whom was Moses a type or symbolic?
"I will raise them up a Prophet from among their brethren, like unto thee, and will put My words in His mouth; and He shall speak unto them all that I shall command Him." Deut. 18:18. compare with Acts 3:22-26.

Whom should we follow in this?
"Come unto Me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest." Matt. 11:28.

How is one to receive the instruction he needs on this point?
"Wherefore lay apart all filthiness and superfluity of naughtiness, and receive with meekness the engrafted word, which is able to save your souls." James 1:21.

When asked for a reason of our hope of heaven, how should we answer?
"But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts; and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear." 1 Peter 3:15.

Of what is meekness a fruit?
"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance: against such there is no law." Gal. 5:22, 23.

If one really has the Spirit of God, what things will he look after?
"For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit, the things of the Spirit." Rom. 8:5.

What is the evidence that we are Christ's?
"But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of His." Rom. 8:9.

If a brother is overcome by a fault, who only should undertake his restoration, and in what way?
"Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such a one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted." Gal. 6:1.

How should Christian women adorn themselves?
"Whose adorning let it not he that outward adorning of plaiting the hair, and of wearing of gold, or of putting on of apparel; but let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price." 1 Peter 3:3, 4.

What will the Lord finally do for those who cultivate the spirit of meekness?
"For the Lord taketh pleasure in His people: He will beautify the meek with salvation." Ps. 149:4.

What will the meek inherit?
"Blessed are the meek; for they shall inherit the earth." Matt. 5:5.

What graces are the meek of the earth exhorted to seek that they may be hid in the day of the Lord's fierce anger?
"Seek ye the Lord, all ye meek of the earth, which have wrought His judgment: seek righteousness, seek meekness: it may be ye shall be hid in the day of the Lord's anger." Zeph. 2:3.
NOTE. - The fact that the meek are required to seek meekness, is evidence that they should seek to be more meek than they are, and that sanctification is a progressive work.

Pride goeth before destruction

What will pride do for him who cherishes it?
"A man's pride shall bring him low." Prov. 29:23.

How does the Lord regard the proud?
"God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble." James 4:6. "Him that hath a high look and a proud heart will not I suffer." Ps. 101:5.

Will Jesus dwell with the proud?
"The proud He knoweth afar off." Ps 138:6.

Can those who are filled with pride be truly wise?
"He is proud, knowing nothing, but doting about questions and strifes of words." 1 Tim. 6:4.

Why should we not indulge in pride?
"A high look and a proud heart... is sin." Prov. 21:4.

Will the Lord bless the proud?
"Blessed is that man that... respecteth not the proud." Ps. 40:4.

What will be one great sin of the last days?
"Men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud." 2 Tim. 3:2. "The child shall behave himself proudly against the ancient." Isa. 3:5.

How are the proud generally regarded at the present time?
"Now we call the proud happy." Mal. 3:15.

What does the prophet say will be their fate?
"Behold, the day cometh that shall burn as an oven, and all the proud... shall be stubble, and the day that cometh shall burn them up." Mal. 4:1.

What is the opposite of pride?
"Blessed [are] the meek: for they shall inherit the earth". Matthew 5:5
Note: Try searching the entire Bible for the word "meek"

Out of Darkness and into the Light

Have you ever been afraid, felt panic, had a fear of some unknown event, felt a sort of darkness creeping into your life?

Meditate on these scriptures:

1John 1:5
This then is the message which we have heard of him, and declare unto you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all.

Luke 1:77-79
To give knowledge of salvation unto his people by the remission of their sins,
Through the tender mercy of our God; whereby the dayspring from on high hath visited us,
To give light to them that sit in darkness and [in] the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace.

Does the Lord consider it important that His children walk in the light?
"Walk while ye have the light, lest darkness come upon you; for he that walketh in darkness knoweth not whither he goeth." John 12:35.

What must one do to obtain the benefits of the blood of Christ?
"But if we walk in the light, as He is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanseth us from all sin." 1 John 1:7.

How long may the just expect light to shine on his pathway?
"But the path of the just is as the shining light, that shineth more and more unto the perfect day." Prov. 4:18.

For whom is the light sown?
"Light is sown for the righteous, and gladness for the upright in heart." Ps. 97:11.

What will become of the light which a person has if he fails to improve by it?
"The light of the body is the eye; therefore when thine eye is single, thy whole body also is full of light; but when thine eye is evil, thy body also is full of darkness. Take heed, therefore, that the light which is in thee be not darkness." Luke 11:34, 35.

Why are those condemned who do not come to the light?
"And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil." John 3:19.

If one is really seeking for truth, what will he do?
"But he that doeth truth cometh to the light, that his deeds may be made manifest, that they are wrought in God." John 3:21.

What will those who reject light and truth, be finally led to believe?
"And for this cause God shall send them strong delusion, that they should believe a lie; that they all might be damned who believed not the truth, but had pleasure in unrighteousness." 2 Thess. 2:11, 12.

From what source does one derive light?
"Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path." Ps. 119:105, 130 (Prov. 6:23).

Who was told by an angel of God that his way pleased the Lord?
"He saw in a vision evidently about the ninth hour of the day, an angel of God coming in to him, and saying unto him, Cornelius. And when he looked on him, he was afraid, and said, What is it, Lord? And he said unto him, Thy prayers and thine alms are come up for a memorial before God." Acts 10:3, 4.

Did the angel then tell him that he had nothing more to learn or do, in order to be saved?
"And now send men to Joppa, and call for one Simon, whose surname is Peter: he lodgeth with one Simon a tanner, whose house is by the sea-side: he shall tell thee what thou oughtest to do." Acts 10:5, 6.

In what are we exhorted to continue?
"For we are made partakers of Christ, if we hold the beginning of our confidence steadfast unto the end." Heb. 3:14 (Matt.10:22).

Among those that hear the prophecies of Revelation, who are to have a blessing from God?
"Blessed is he that readeth, and they that hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written therein." Rev. 1:3.

Is there an example of God's overthrowing people whom He once favored, because they refused to obey Him?
"I will therefore put you in remembrance, though ye once knew this, how that the Lord, having saved the people out of the land of Egypt, afterward destroyed them that believed not." Jude 5.