I had always heard that we should never wish someone "Godspeed." I never fully understood why, and I never questioned it. Now, I wonder. Why not?
2 John 1:9-11, KJV - Whosoever transgresseth, and abideth not in the doctrine of Christ, hath not God. He that abideth in the doctrine of Christ, he hath both the Father and the Son. If there come any unto you, and bring not this doctrine, receive him not into your house, neither bid him God speed: For he that biddeth him God speed is partaker of his evil deeds.
2 John 1:9-11, NIV - Anyone who runs ahead and does not continue in the teaching of Christ does not have God; whoever continues in the teaching has both the Father and the Son. If anyone comes to you and does not bring this teaching, do not take them into your house or welcome them. Anyone who welcomes them shares in their wicked work.
Interesting. I always thought God speed was used like wishing someone well in an endeavor.
Curiosity about that, led me to the amplified version.
2 John 1:9-11, AMP - Anyone who runs on ahead [of God] and does not abide in the doctrine of Christ [who is not content with what He taught] does not have God; but he who continues to live in the doctrine (teaching) of Christ [does have God], he has both the Father and the Son. If anyone comes to you and does not bring this doctrine [is disloyal to what Jesus Christ taught], do not receive him [do not accept him, do not welcome or admit him] into [your] house or bid him Godspeed or give him any encouragement. For he who wishes him success [who wishes encourages him, wishing him Godspeed] is a partaker in his evil doings.
Hmm. Here it is talking about using Godspeed for wishing success, but the other two just mentioned it almost like a greeting. I wonder if I can find anything about that...
I looked around several resources and versions, and finally found a version of my Bible app that makes sense with the greeting - the Complete Jewish Bible.
2 John 1:9-11, CJB - Everyone who goes ahead and does not remain true to what the Messiah has taught does not have God. Those who remain true to his teaching have both the Father and the Son. If someone comes to you and does not bring this teaching, don't welcome him into your home. Don't even say, "Shalom!" to him; for the person who says, "Shalom!" to him shares in his evil deeds.
That makes more sense. If someone comes to us who does not follow the teachings of Christ, we aren't supposed to say God speed, or "Shalom" to them, because it speaks the power and peace of God over their lives. If we do that, we become guilty of aiding, or encouraging any wicked deeds they may do because they do not follow God.
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Shalom: "peace (used as a word of greeting or farewell" (Dictionary).
Wednesday, September 10, 2014
Tuesday, September 9, 2014
The Now Generation
We are accustomed to getting things when we want them - fast food, high-speed internet, instant movies. As a rule, we don't like waiting. We generally have no patience for long lines, heavy traffic, or wait time.
These things can be annoying, and I'm not going to tell you that I've found a way to "rise above it," because I haven't. I have always tried to look at everything as an opportunity for adventure. Stuck in traffic? Adventure. Forced to wait in line behind a really slow person? Adventure. Movie not downloading fast enough? Adventure.
We must become the generation of patience, not only in situations like these, but with each other. We must practice patience. Practice patience so that it becomes easier to do. The goal is to be patient with each other, and to wait patiently on The Lord. His timing is perfect, and sometimes that means we have to wait.
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"Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him; do not fret when people succeed in their ways, when they carry out their wicked schemes" (Psalm 37:7).
These things can be annoying, and I'm not going to tell you that I've found a way to "rise above it," because I haven't. I have always tried to look at everything as an opportunity for adventure. Stuck in traffic? Adventure. Forced to wait in line behind a really slow person? Adventure. Movie not downloading fast enough? Adventure.
We must become the generation of patience, not only in situations like these, but with each other. We must practice patience. Practice patience so that it becomes easier to do. The goal is to be patient with each other, and to wait patiently on The Lord. His timing is perfect, and sometimes that means we have to wait.
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"Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him; do not fret when people succeed in their ways, when they carry out their wicked schemes" (Psalm 37:7).
Monday, September 8, 2014
God All by Himself
"God is still God all by Himself," said a guest pastor at our church last Wednesday.
What a wonderful way to put it. God is God with or without us. He created us, and He loves us. We need God, but God doesn't really need us. He manages wonderfully without us. He doesn't get tired. He doesn't need help. He can do everything all by Himself.
That thought doesn't even make me sad. I didn't sit around going "Aww. God doesn't need me." Instead, I was filled with wonder and awe. God doesn't need anything to be who He is. He just is. It makes me feel blessed that God wants to work in my life, and use my skills, and my time on the earth for His glory.
How amazing that He loves us, and cherishes us even though He doesn't need to. How fulfilling it is, to return that love.
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God said to Moses, "I AM WHO I AM. This is what you are to say to the Israelites: 'I AM has sent me to you.'" God also said to Moses, "Say to the Israelites, 'The LORD, the God of your fathers--the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac and the God of Jacob--has sent me to you.' This is my name forever, the name you shall call me from generation to generation." - Exodus 3:14-15
What a wonderful way to put it. God is God with or without us. He created us, and He loves us. We need God, but God doesn't really need us. He manages wonderfully without us. He doesn't get tired. He doesn't need help. He can do everything all by Himself.
That thought doesn't even make me sad. I didn't sit around going "Aww. God doesn't need me." Instead, I was filled with wonder and awe. God doesn't need anything to be who He is. He just is. It makes me feel blessed that God wants to work in my life, and use my skills, and my time on the earth for His glory.
How amazing that He loves us, and cherishes us even though He doesn't need to. How fulfilling it is, to return that love.
______________________________________________________
God said to Moses, "I AM WHO I AM. This is what you are to say to the Israelites: 'I AM has sent me to you.'" God also said to Moses, "Say to the Israelites, 'The LORD, the God of your fathers--the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac and the God of Jacob--has sent me to you.' This is my name forever, the name you shall call me from generation to generation." - Exodus 3:14-15
Sunday, September 7, 2014
Practical Preparation
In this post I talked a little about practical preparation for women who want to get married. Today's post is more general.
Anyone can do practical preparation for what God has called them to do. I have a vague idea of what I want to do with my life, and how I can honor God by doing it, but it's still possible He will lead me in a totally different direction. That's okay.
In the meantime, I can prepare practically. In addition to studying God's Word, going to church, and living as He called us to live, we can learn new skills that will be useful in our lives.
Do you want to learn a foreign language? But you aren't sure why? Do it. Want to take a night class that interests you? Do it. Feel the need to go to an event and meet people? Do it. Need to learn to drive? Do it.
Remember to always honor God in everything you do, and He can use any new skills you learn for His glory.
I chose to do this post today because I have recently been learning new recipes. I like to think I'm a good cook, and I can follow a recipe to the letter - and improvise if necessary. There is still so much more I need to learn though. There are recipes that my Mom can make that I really want to learn, so I am.
Who knows how this will be used in my future? It's possible that it won't be used in a big way. That's okay. I like food, and (for the most part) I enjoy cooking. So it's something I'm happy to learn.
Practical preparation. Any time you can learn a practical skill, I say do it. You never know when it could come in handy.
Beyond learning new skills, anytime you have the opportunity to help and serve others, take it. This isn't just preparation - it's actively serving God. If you have time, volunteer. It doesn't have to be a daily, or even weekly thing. Offer to help out at church functions, or at your child's school.
There are always opportunities to help others, learn new skills, and to serve God.
______________________________________________________
"Now listen, you who say, 'Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city, spend a year there, carry on business and make money.' Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. Instead, you ought to say, 'If it is the Lord's will, we will live and do this or that.' As it is, you boast in your arrogant schemes. All such boasting is evil. If anyone, then, knows the good they ought to do and doesn't do it, it is a sin for them" (James 4:13-17).
"...for it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose" (Philippians 2:13).
"Serve wholeheartedly, as if you were serving the Lord, not people (Ephesians 6:7).
Anyone can do practical preparation for what God has called them to do. I have a vague idea of what I want to do with my life, and how I can honor God by doing it, but it's still possible He will lead me in a totally different direction. That's okay.
In the meantime, I can prepare practically. In addition to studying God's Word, going to church, and living as He called us to live, we can learn new skills that will be useful in our lives.
Do you want to learn a foreign language? But you aren't sure why? Do it. Want to take a night class that interests you? Do it. Feel the need to go to an event and meet people? Do it. Need to learn to drive? Do it.
Remember to always honor God in everything you do, and He can use any new skills you learn for His glory.
I chose to do this post today because I have recently been learning new recipes. I like to think I'm a good cook, and I can follow a recipe to the letter - and improvise if necessary. There is still so much more I need to learn though. There are recipes that my Mom can make that I really want to learn, so I am.
Who knows how this will be used in my future? It's possible that it won't be used in a big way. That's okay. I like food, and (for the most part) I enjoy cooking. So it's something I'm happy to learn.
Practical preparation. Any time you can learn a practical skill, I say do it. You never know when it could come in handy.
Beyond learning new skills, anytime you have the opportunity to help and serve others, take it. This isn't just preparation - it's actively serving God. If you have time, volunteer. It doesn't have to be a daily, or even weekly thing. Offer to help out at church functions, or at your child's school.
There are always opportunities to help others, learn new skills, and to serve God.
______________________________________________________
"Now listen, you who say, 'Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city, spend a year there, carry on business and make money.' Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. Instead, you ought to say, 'If it is the Lord's will, we will live and do this or that.' As it is, you boast in your arrogant schemes. All such boasting is evil. If anyone, then, knows the good they ought to do and doesn't do it, it is a sin for them" (James 4:13-17).
"...for it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose" (Philippians 2:13).
"Serve wholeheartedly, as if you were serving the Lord, not people (Ephesians 6:7).
Saturday, September 6, 2014
Those Who Love Obey
John 14:23 - Jesus replied, "Anyone who loves me will obey my teaching. My Father will love them, and we will come to them and make our home with them."
We obey God's commandments and teachings because we love Him, not because we are forced. We all have the choice not to obey, but those who love the Lord will choose to follow His teachings.
It is love for God that drives the actions and behaviors of true Christians. It is a desire to please Him that causes us to give up a life of sin and worldly pleasure. It is the promise of eternity in His presence that keeps us on His path.
It is a choice.
We obey God's commandments and teachings because we love Him, not because we are forced. We all have the choice not to obey, but those who love the Lord will choose to follow His teachings.
It is love for God that drives the actions and behaviors of true Christians. It is a desire to please Him that causes us to give up a life of sin and worldly pleasure. It is the promise of eternity in His presence that keeps us on His path.
It is a choice.
Friday, September 5, 2014
Spiritual Gifts
Paul talks about the gifts people have, and how not everyone will have the same gifts. My pastor keeps mentioning that the people in church who can speak in tongues need to speak in tongues because we're a Pentecostal church.
I don't speak in tongues. Somehow, I became afraid of it when I was a child, and still feel uncomfortable with the idea of speaking tongues myself. I think it's awesome when other people do it for real. It brings God's presence right into our service.
But when he kept mentioning it, I wondered again: "Do I need to speak in tongues? Am I a bad Christian if I don't? Am I a bad Pentecostal Christian if I don't?
And then, I found Paul's first letter to the Corinthians.
Therefore I want you to know that no one who is speaking by the Spirit of God says, "Jesus be cursed," and no one can say, "Jesus is Lord," except by the Holy Spirit. There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit distributes them. There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord. There are different kinds of working, but in all of them and in everyone it is the same God at work. (1 Corinthians 12:3-6).
There are different works, and God calls each of us to different works by the abilities He gives us. It's actually a bit of a relief that God doesn't call all of us to be preachers behind the pulpit, even though we're all supposed to be leaders. (I'll work on a post about that.)
The next part answered my questions.
Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good. To one there is given through the Spirit a message of wisdom, to another a message of knowledge by means of the same Spirit, to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healing by that one Spirit, to another miraculous powers, to another prophecy, to another distinguishing between spirits, to another speaking in different kinds of tongues, and to still another the interpretation of tongues. All these are the work of one and the same Spirit, and he distributes them to each one, just as he determines (1 Corinthians 12:7-11).
Some people may have multiple gifts. I have seen people speak in tongues one service, and then interpret a message in tongues the next. But we all have different gifts, and the distribution of them is determined by the Holy Spirit. We should not try to push a gift onto someone, nor should we ridicule someone based on our perception of their gift (or lack thereof).
I don't speak in tongues. Somehow, I became afraid of it when I was a child, and still feel uncomfortable with the idea of speaking tongues myself. I think it's awesome when other people do it for real. It brings God's presence right into our service.
But when he kept mentioning it, I wondered again: "Do I need to speak in tongues? Am I a bad Christian if I don't? Am I a bad Pentecostal Christian if I don't?
And then, I found Paul's first letter to the Corinthians.
Therefore I want you to know that no one who is speaking by the Spirit of God says, "Jesus be cursed," and no one can say, "Jesus is Lord," except by the Holy Spirit. There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit distributes them. There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord. There are different kinds of working, but in all of them and in everyone it is the same God at work. (1 Corinthians 12:3-6).
There are different works, and God calls each of us to different works by the abilities He gives us. It's actually a bit of a relief that God doesn't call all of us to be preachers behind the pulpit, even though we're all supposed to be leaders. (I'll work on a post about that.)
The next part answered my questions.
Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good. To one there is given through the Spirit a message of wisdom, to another a message of knowledge by means of the same Spirit, to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healing by that one Spirit, to another miraculous powers, to another prophecy, to another distinguishing between spirits, to another speaking in different kinds of tongues, and to still another the interpretation of tongues. All these are the work of one and the same Spirit, and he distributes them to each one, just as he determines (1 Corinthians 12:7-11).
Some people may have multiple gifts. I have seen people speak in tongues one service, and then interpret a message in tongues the next. But we all have different gifts, and the distribution of them is determined by the Holy Spirit. We should not try to push a gift onto someone, nor should we ridicule someone based on our perception of their gift (or lack thereof).
Thursday, September 4, 2014
Big Bibles
It's not the size of the Bible that matters, but how you use it. A pocket-sized Bible seems like it would be hard to use, though...
I have a medium-sized Bible that is engraved with my name, and fits nicely in my purse. I have been contemplating getting a larger Bible (possibly a study Bible). I would like to have one large enough that I can make notes in and highlight verses. Mine has relatively small print, and there isn't room to mark in it.
Anyway, I've searched a few places for a good study Bible, but haven't found one yet. If anyone can recommend one, I'd appreciate the input. I really prefer the KJV.
Today's blog post is really just an excuse to share this amazing music video:
I hope you all enjoy this song as much as I do. :)
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"For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart" (Hebrews 4:12).
I have a medium-sized Bible that is engraved with my name, and fits nicely in my purse. I have been contemplating getting a larger Bible (possibly a study Bible). I would like to have one large enough that I can make notes in and highlight verses. Mine has relatively small print, and there isn't room to mark in it.
Anyway, I've searched a few places for a good study Bible, but haven't found one yet. If anyone can recommend one, I'd appreciate the input. I really prefer the KJV.
Today's blog post is really just an excuse to share this amazing music video:
_______________________________________________________
"For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart" (Hebrews 4:12).
Wednesday, September 3, 2014
Jehovah's Witnesses
Jehovah's witnesses. We've all had them come to our homes, and interrupt something we consider important. Often, we find their "intrusion" annoying. I know I've been guilty of not answering the door, or worse, scorning them.
We shouldn't do that, though. I have yet to find anyone who takes issue with what Jehovah's witnesses say about The Bible; the issue is always the interruption of the day - their door-to-door ministry.
I almost didn't answer the door today. I was in the middle of "a very important" television show, and I really wasn't dressed for company. So, why did I answer the door? A Bible verse came to mind, just as I made the decision to ignore the door, that changed my mind.
Matthew 10:14 - If anyone will not welcome you or listen to your words, leave that home or town and shake the dust off your feet.
I know the verse is talking about more than just door-to-door ministry, but also about welcoming Jesus' disciples to stay in homes, but if we truly serve God, why wouldn't we want to talk about Him with those who spread the gospel? (Door-to-door ministry is something I feel I should cover in a separate post.)
So, today I feel that I learned something. Not everyone who comes to talk to us about God will be truly teaching His Word. God gives us discernment. However, just because there is a chance they will interrupt our day, or that they won't tell the truth, doesn't mean we shouldn't answer the door. Who knows? Maybe they can learn something from us, too. Talking to the wise, older man who came to my door has really brightened my day! I also have some newsletters to read. I can't wait to share what I find in them!
Now, in this time, answering the door to strangers can also be dangerous. I kept my security door between us the whole time; the man didn't mind at all, because his purpose was to talk to me, not to come into my home. Use your judgment, but don't be afraid to open the door, and talk to Jehovah's witnesses. You might learn something. I did!
We shouldn't do that, though. I have yet to find anyone who takes issue with what Jehovah's witnesses say about The Bible; the issue is always the interruption of the day - their door-to-door ministry.
I almost didn't answer the door today. I was in the middle of "a very important" television show, and I really wasn't dressed for company. So, why did I answer the door? A Bible verse came to mind, just as I made the decision to ignore the door, that changed my mind.
Matthew 10:14 - If anyone will not welcome you or listen to your words, leave that home or town and shake the dust off your feet.
I know the verse is talking about more than just door-to-door ministry, but also about welcoming Jesus' disciples to stay in homes, but if we truly serve God, why wouldn't we want to talk about Him with those who spread the gospel? (Door-to-door ministry is something I feel I should cover in a separate post.)
So, today I feel that I learned something. Not everyone who comes to talk to us about God will be truly teaching His Word. God gives us discernment. However, just because there is a chance they will interrupt our day, or that they won't tell the truth, doesn't mean we shouldn't answer the door. Who knows? Maybe they can learn something from us, too. Talking to the wise, older man who came to my door has really brightened my day! I also have some newsletters to read. I can't wait to share what I find in them!
Now, in this time, answering the door to strangers can also be dangerous. I kept my security door between us the whole time; the man didn't mind at all, because his purpose was to talk to me, not to come into my home. Use your judgment, but don't be afraid to open the door, and talk to Jehovah's witnesses. You might learn something. I did!
Tuesday, September 2, 2014
God's Love
Today's verse of the day on my Bible app is Psalm 119:64 - The earth is filled with your love, LORD; teach me your desires.
We can find evidence of God's love for us everywhere. God is never hidden from us, if we only seek Him. His love can be found in our homes, churches, places of work, and many other places. Sometimes we don't have to look very far to find evidence of it, and other times it seems more elusive. If we search for it, however, we will find it, and sometimes it even pops up in unexpected places, at unanticipated times.
We can find evidence of God's love for us everywhere. God is never hidden from us, if we only seek Him. His love can be found in our homes, churches, places of work, and many other places. Sometimes we don't have to look very far to find evidence of it, and other times it seems more elusive. If we search for it, however, we will find it, and sometimes it even pops up in unexpected places, at unanticipated times.
Monday, September 1, 2014
Watch Your Words
It has been a trying day. It has been quite a while since I've had to wear my mask of politeness. I've been really good about being genuine in my friendliness and politeness. Today, however, there were several interactions that tested the limits of my patience, and my ability to hold my tongue. I did it though!
In spite of how emotionally drained I was when I returned home, I'm glad I was tested today. I thought some thoughts I shouldn't have, but overall, it was a good experience. I had forgotten what it was like to deal with trying people. I am so glad that God has been teaching me patience, and to guard my words and my heart. Today I learned once more how to hold my tongue even when it was extremely difficult. I also have learned when to speak up. So, even though I held my tongue mostly, there were a couple of times I did speak up for myself.
I found myself wishing that the person I was with had learned to hold their tongue.
I still have a long way to go, but I am thankful that God continually works in my life.
______________________________________________________
"Those who guard their mouths and their tongues keep themselves from calamity" (Proverbs 21:23).
"The words of the reckless pierce like swords, but the tongue of the wise brings healing" (Proverbs 12:18).
______________________________________________________
I implore you all: guard your tongue. Just because you can say anything, doesn't mean you should, and though you should never lie, remember that words can hurt, so speak carefully.
______________________________________________________
"Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen" (Ephesians 4:29).
In spite of how emotionally drained I was when I returned home, I'm glad I was tested today. I thought some thoughts I shouldn't have, but overall, it was a good experience. I had forgotten what it was like to deal with trying people. I am so glad that God has been teaching me patience, and to guard my words and my heart. Today I learned once more how to hold my tongue even when it was extremely difficult. I also have learned when to speak up. So, even though I held my tongue mostly, there were a couple of times I did speak up for myself.
I found myself wishing that the person I was with had learned to hold their tongue.
I still have a long way to go, but I am thankful that God continually works in my life.
______________________________________________________
"Those who guard their mouths and their tongues keep themselves from calamity" (Proverbs 21:23).
"The words of the reckless pierce like swords, but the tongue of the wise brings healing" (Proverbs 12:18).
______________________________________________________
I implore you all: guard your tongue. Just because you can say anything, doesn't mean you should, and though you should never lie, remember that words can hurt, so speak carefully.
______________________________________________________
"Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen" (Ephesians 4:29).
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