HEAVENLY HEAVENLYBREAD BREADVOLUME VOLUME44Issue Issue222012 2012
A monthly devotional with inspiring words for daily living
HEAVENLY BREAD VOLUME 4 Issue 2 2012
Imitating Christ
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HEAVENLY BREAD VOLUME 4 Issue 2 2012
HEAVENLY BREAD VOLUME 4 Issue 2 2012
HEAVENLY BREAD MISSION AND GOALS
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eavenly bread‘s mission is to provide inspirational devotional reading for all believers in our efforts to uplift the name of Jesus while spreading the gospel message of Christ throughout the world. Our meditation scriptures are designed to encourage more Bible reading, study and meditation as it is our sword used in our spiritual warfare with Satan. It is our goal to obey Christ’s command as recorded in Matthew 28:19-20 by going into the entire world beginning in our Jerusalem, proceeding onto Judea, Samaria, and continuing until every man, woman and child have been taught Christ.
HEAVENLY BREAD VOLUME 4 Issue 2 2012 Wed Feb 1
Be Loving Deuteronomy 33:3 Yea, he loved the people; all his saints are in thy hands; and they sat down at thy feet; every one shall receive of thy words.
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hristians are to imitate Christ our Lord as He loved all humanity and throughout scripture all believers are encouraged to love as Christ loved. Our lesson study depicts Moses' love for the nation of Israel and cared for their well-being. It is recorded on many occasions where Moses went to God on behalf of the people. Such as deliverance from the oppression of Pharaoh and providing food, water and spiritual food as well while in the desert. What lesson can we learn from today's passage of scripture? We are to learn that if we are to imitate Christ we must love as Christ loved. Christ's chosen leaders had love for all people both saved and unsaved. Secondly, we manifest Christ in our lives when we love all and show acts of Lovingkindness in our daily walk. Lastly, how can we fail to love all when we were alienated from God and didn't love Him He loved us in spite of our sinful ways to the point of sending His only begotten Son to die on the cross for our sins? Let's close today's discussion by saying love is an action word and it is shown through our actions. We cannot say we love and fail to move with compassion. Love! Love! Love all!
HEAVENLY BREAD VOLUME 4 Issue 2 2012 Thu Feb 2
Agape Love John 3:16 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. hat a profound statement? Our scripture text brings into focus the magnitude of God's self-giving love for all mankind in that He willingly gave His best to reconcile man back to Himself while wrapping Himself in humanity to be subjected to all manner of persecution and human limitations for the sole purpose of reconciling His much loved creation. What love! God's agape love show the depth of His concern and welfare for mankind (Matthew 5:46; Genesis 37:3) in that He made provisions for all man's needs both spiritual and physical. His love was so deep that action was required and action taken-Christ died for us. Love in action. See, God is love. These questions come to mind, in gratitude for what God done how do we show love to God, others and self? Do we say thank You God for sending Your Son Jesus Christ to die for my sins as I am unworthy to pay my own sin-debt and for this I am forever grateful? Your agape love provided me with salvation and for this I am grateful and all I can do is give my life to You and tell others how great thou art and the blessings there are from receiving You agape love. There is no love greater than the love of God. Love like God loved.
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HEAVENLY BREAD VOLUME 4 Issue 2 2012 Fri Feb 3
In Lovingkindness Jeremiah 31:3 The Lord hath appeared of old unto me, saying, Yea, I have loved thee with and everlasting love, therefore, with lovingkindess have I drawn thee. Again I will build thee, and thou shalt be built, O virgin of Israel; thou shalt again be adorned with thy tabrets, and shalt go forth in the dances of them that make merry.
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his chapter of Jeremiah addresses the restoration of Israel and Judah to the Promise Land where God's people would again live under His blessings. Also, through God's prophet Jeremiah God promises a new and better covenant one that would give the people the spiritual power to obey His commands. This point to the coming of Jesus Christ who would establish the New Covenant where all God's laws would be written in the hearts of man and a personal relationship would be established. With that being said, the question now becomes, How is love displayed in this message? Regardless of how evil man becomes or how far man strays from God His love and out-stretched arms are open to forgive and receive us back to Himself-compassion on display. God tell Israel of His love and that it is everlasting and when the restoration fully come the entire world will see the beauty of God's love for His people as His radiance of joy will shine like the morning sun. One day the nation of Israel-the unbelieving Israel as well as all unbelievers will come to know and love God as Savior and Redeemer and reciprocate His love. God's Lovingkindness is always on display-receive Him and enjoy the fruits of His blessings.
HEAVENLY BREAD VOLUME 4 Issue 2 2012 Sat Feb 4
Be Patient II Timothy 2:24 And the servant of the Lord must not strive, but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient.
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hat is the overall lesson in today's discussion? Paul is encouraging all believers to be patient with others as we at some point needed someone to be patient with us and they were. Most importantly, the patience of God our Father and creator was and is still being imparted to each of us as some requires a much longer time in accepting Him as Lord and Savior. This principle applies to our daily lives as we imitate Christ as He is patient in extending His invitation for repentance and be forgiven. With that being said, being that God is patient with us why not be patient with others? All humanity isn't maturing at the same pace or sees the need for a Savior as others, but what does God do? He is longsuffering, enduring spiritual pain and agony over the waywardness of mankind. Also, Paul is encouraging us to refrain from being cruel with our fellowman, but be willing to teach "what thus saith the Lord" and do so gently. Whatever we do we must remember that we are imitating Christ and whatever we do to the least of God's children we are doing it unto Him. Just as we learned patience others are learning patience from us-be patient.
HEAVENLY BREAD VOLUME 4 Issue 2 2012 Sun Feb 5
Serve In Meekness II Timothy 2:25 In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth; he term meekness is defined as "humble, having a gentle and disciplined spirit"(The Student Bible Dictionary P. 153). This definition parallels Matthew 5:5 which talks about the meek inheriting the earth. What this scripture is saying is that all God's children who are meek and submissive to and before God and is more concern about God's work and His people than self. Meekness is those persons who have totally committed themselves to God and find refuge in God. In our lesson text we see the Apostle Paul continuing his dialogue on the workman and God approval of his works in doing so he is exemplifying the characteristics of Christ. Therefore, when believers interact with fellow believers and the unsaved we are to do so in meekness. Regarding the unsaved, we are encouraged to have a gentle spirit as we are presenting Christ to them and if it is God's Will the hearer will repent and come to Christ (v 26) as the believer will have imparted the truth of God's righteousness and the blessings of salvation. It is noteworthy to say that God rewards the meek in teaching them His ways (Psalm 25:9). What does God do for the proud? He resists the proud. This is because a proud person does not have the right view of or relationship with God. With that being said, humility and meekness work hand in hand as a meek humble person doesn't have to boast as to who they are. Their works and lifestyle speaks for them. How can I serve God in meekness? Whatever we do it is to God's glory instead of man as man's praises are short lived. Serving self and man should be taken out of the equation. Scriptures provides many examples of our biblical leaders who served with all humility and meekness while giving no thought for self. Paul the writer of our lesson text served God with his total being
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HEAVENLY BREAD VOLUME 4 Issue 2 2012 and was ready and willing to die for preaching Christ. He suffered greatly but continued to share the Word of God. How can we forget Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior while dying on the cross and being mocked He prayed for His mockers. He asked His Father to forgive them because they didn't what they were doing, and they didn't; they were mocking the Savior of the world. Given what we have discussed, these questions come to mind, How will you serve, in meekness or with a prideful spirit? Are you serving for self-aggrandizement or for God's glory? Are you serving from your heart? God is worthy of our heart-felt service.
HEAVENLY BREAD VOLUME 4 Issue 2 2012 Mon Feb 6
Longsuffering II Timothy 4:2 Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine.
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iven the adjectives associated with the term longsuffering as well as the charge Paul gave to Timothy to preach God's Word in and out of season defines the term in action. This charge is applicable to pastors and ministers of the gospel today. This is because the Bible states many will turn away from hearing God's Word and will not endure sound doctrine (v. 3). What pastors, ministers and other believers are to do is to remain steadfast in preaching/teaching Christ because the day will come when all will acknowledge Him as Lord. Pastors, ministers and all believers who exhibit patient with the unbelievers and growing new converts are exemplifying the Christ in us. This is because every believer is at a different level in his or her Christian walk. Patient is an adjective used to describe longsuffering as both are characteristics of God as He displays both in dealing with humanity. In His own time He sent forth His Son to die for the sins of the world-longsuffering and in His time Christ will return thus giving time for repentance-again longsuffering. Are you as forgiving, patient and tolerant with others as God is with you? God forgave us so why not forgive others? God is patient with you and I so be patient with others. God is longsuffering; we must be as well.
HEAVENLY BREAD VOLUME 4 Issue 2 2012 Tue Feb 7
Serve With Humility Acts 20:19; 1 Peter 5:5 Serving the Lord with all humility of mind, and with many tears, and temptations, which befell me by the lying in wait of the Jews (20:19). Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time (5:5).
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rom our two scripture verses we see humility in action as the Apostle Paul recognized the sinful haughty mindset of the Ephesians of his day and he shed compassionate tears for the lost condition of the people. The people were in such lost state until they failed to recognize God for who is and the consequences for rejecting the gospel of Christ. Rejecting God will result in eternal separation. Many of Paul's sermons would be accompanied by tears of compassion. Paul had the right view of himself and God. His Damascus Road encounter put everything into perspective; therefore, Paul earnestly wanted the Ephesians to accept Christ with a heart of humility. 1 Peter 5:5 tells us that all should humble oneself before God and His mighty hand and let Him do the exalting in His own time. It is far better to be exalted by God than self or man because humility brings praises from God; "well done thou good and faithful servant"(Matthew 25:21). Another note on serving with humility is to dress ourselves with humility as we recognized our weakness in our own strength, but through Christ we can do all things who strengthen us (Philippians 4:13). What this means is that through Christ all believers have the strength to accomplish God's purpose according to His will. Believers, let humility become a part of your wardrobe.
HEAVENLY BREAD VOLUME 4 Issue 2 2012 Wed Feb 8
Serve With A Willing Heart 1 Peter 5:2 Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof, not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind.
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here are three important points that stands out in today's topical discussion and they are (a) church leaders should not fall prey to the desire for money as it is the root of all evil. This is especially true for pastors because God has always and will continue to provide adequate support for His under shepherds. It is noteworthy to mention that whatever ministry one has been called into knows that God will supply all your needs and there is no need to compromise the gospel of Christ for a dollar. (b) The second pitfall for all church leaders is the desire for power. Those who are power hungry will use any means necessary to gain more power and will use positions of authority to get what they want. (c) The final point that stands out is that church leaders are to feed God's people the truth with a willing, humble and ready heart as God will reward the cheerful giver. Whether serving in proclaiming the Word or providing valuable services to God through others is kingdom building. How are you serving in God's kingdom building? Is it with a willing heart or expecting a pay check at the end of the day? If in a position of authority, do you give reverence to God for the opportunity to serve in the position or do you feel you gained the position on your own? Serving with a willing heart is serving in humility.
HEAVENLY BREAD VOLUME 4 Issue 2 2012 Thu Feb 9
Have Confidence In God Hebrews 3:6, 16 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. For we are made partakers of Christ, if we hold the beginning of our confidence steadfast unto the end;
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et's begin this topical discussion by answering two questions as it relate to whose house we belong? Christ's house is His body the church and all believers are members of Christ's body-the church. Therefore, all believers have the assurances of his or her salvation which is in Christ Jesus, but believers are to remain in Christ unto the end where God's children will see Him face-to-face. Salvation is through God's grace which is sufficient for all things. What makes believers confident in Christ? Believers have this assurance because we are partakers of Christ as all believers died to sin with Him and rose to a life of righteousness with Christ. God has proven to be trustworthy in that God the Father promised a Savior, Jesus came and died on the cross for humanity's sins. The promise of a comforter-the Holy Spirit came (Acts 1:8, 2:2-4) and He resides in each believer, but He will not and cannot dwell in an unholy place for He is God. With that being said, believers have no reason to doubt any of God's promises as He is with each believer from beginning to the end. He is the source of our being. Believers, walk proudly in the righteousness of God because all believes are members of the household of faith.
HEAVENLY BREAD VOLUME 4 Issue 2 2012 Fri Feb 10
Conformed To Christ-likeness Romans 8:29; 12:2 For whom He did foreknow, He also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of His Son, that He might be the firstborn amongst many brethren. And be not conformed to this world, but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.
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f the question were raised, How are believers transformed into the likeness of Christ? Romans 12:2 provides the answer by stating that a transformation is mandatory which begins in the heart as it is the epicenter of all thoughts and actions. It can also be said that what a man thinks in his heart he does in actions. With that being said, if a man thinks worldly thoughts then his actions will be worldly in nature; whereas, if a man think godly thoughts then his actions will be of such. To answer the implied why question is to say that everyone who has accepted Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior is born into the family of God and must bear resembles of Christ. Believers being born into the corporate body of Christ are called to separate themselves from this world and its systems and to live holy lives before a holy God as all believers glorify God through holy living. Believers can live in Christ-likeness with the aid of the Holy Spirit who guides believers and teaches them all things. Be like Christ and do not conform to this world while in the world.
HEAVENLY BREAD VOLUME 4 Issue 2 2012 Sat Feb 11
Be A Living Sacrifice Romans 12:1 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.
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f the question were raised, Why must I become a living sacrifice? The answer is simply because God the Father knew from the beginning of time that He would have to redeem man from the clutches of sin through the shed blood of His Son Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior who became a human sacrifice to atone the sins of the world. Therefore, the least we can do is live holy and righteous lives before a holy God as a way of saying thank You God for saving my soul. How do we present our bodies as living sacrifices that is acceptable to God? This is accomplished by separating ourselves from this world as we remain in this world. We remain in close communication with God through daily prayer, scripture reading and meditating on His Word. We offer praise and worship to God and a reasonable service to God by serving others. Our reasonable service is making intercessory prayers for the sick, witnessing to the lost souls, giving aid to the poor, giving of our tithes and talents to God for His kingdom building. Also, we are to refuse the world's fleshly pleasures as they contradict consecrated living. Lastly, we are to love all as God first loved us while we were sinners and didn't love Him. Christ sacrificed for us, now we can live sacrificially for Him.
HEAVENLY BREAD VOLUME 4 Issue 2 2012 Sun Feb 12
Share God's Word II Timothy 4:3-4 For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; And they shall turn away the ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables.
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s a bit of background, Paul was encouraging young Timothy of what to expect in his preaching the Word of God as the time would come when many would not want to hear the truth and would much rather hear and believe a lie than the truth. Paul wanted the young preacher to stand firm in his calling and on God's Word as he had been called into the ministry by God as Paul was his father in the ministry. Paul encouraged the young Timothy to preach both in and out of season (v. 2), which means to preach the gospel of Christ regardless of who wants to hear and adhere to the truth as God's truth will stand forever. This encouraging principle applies today to all believers and ministers of the gospel of Christ. Just as unsound doctrines were flourishing during Paul's day they are today. We see many humanistic teachings and beliefs penetrating many old institutions, but what believers of the true gospel must do is confront this evil by saying "thus saith the Lord" and stand firm on God's Word. In sharing God's Word, believers will be confronted with all manner of evil and nay sayers, but believers have been commissioned by God to preach and teach His Word the world over (Matthew 28:1820), and as promised believers are never alone. Most importantly, believers have power through the indwelling Holy Spirit who gives all believers power to proclaim the gospel of Christ. With the indwelling Holy Spirit believers can boldly witness Christ and through His power believers witnessing become powerful and effective as believers witness to the truth and righteousness of God. Each born again believer has a personal testimony of what God has done in his or her life; this is a beginning and equally effective witnessing technique.
HEAVENLY BREAD VOLUME 4 Issue 2 2012 Continuing our discussion on sharing God's Word these questions come to mind, if asked, What must I do to be saved? Do you present the person of Jesus Christ and that He is the Son of God and we must believe on Him to be saved. Do you explain the plan of salvation of admitting that I am a sinner, then confess my sins, and then turn from my sins to God? Are you armed with salvation tracts or the Soul Winners' Bible as references for the prospect-new convert? Are you armed with a follow-up date for study and prayer with the new convert as a means of support? Invite the prospect to attend and or join a good Bible based church to gain greater insight to Christ, God's kingdom and the blessings of salvation. However you share God's Word it is powerful and effective when led by the Holy Spirit. Share the Word stand firm on His truths.
HEAVENLY BREAD VOLUME 4 Issue 2 2012 Mon Feb 13
Serve In Faithfulness Psalm 119:89-91 For ever, O Lord, thy word is settled in heaven. Thy faithfulness is unto all generations; thou hast established the earth, and it abideth. They continue this day according to thine ordinances; for all are thy servants. The writer of this Psalm is addressing God's unchangeable law and word as He is unchangeable. What God says is final; it will come to pass and will remain forever. Scriptures has been recognized as the supreme and final authority as it is God's Word. II Timothy 3:3-16 tell us who wrote the Bible and the purpose of scripture (v. 17). Therefore, the Word of God is settled in heaven as it came from heaven where God resides. The writer of this Psalm also speaks of God's faithfulness as He has been for all generations and will be for generations to come. With that being said, all believers are to serve God in faithfulness as believers are to imitate Christ and all of His characteristics. What God requires from all believers is complete trust in Him and total loyalty to Him. Being loyal to God enables all believers to live holy lives unto Him so that His glory will be manifested through the lives of all believers. Believers can remain faithful to God with the aid of the Holy Spirit who resides in each believer. As believers yield control of his or his life to God-the Holy Spirit, then our faithfulness to God comes easy. Remain faithfulness as He is to us.
HEAVENLY BREAD VOLUME 4 Issue 2 2012 Tue Feb 14
Live Holy Hebrews 12:14 Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord.
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hat does it mean to live holy? Holy living is living a sanctified life unto God the Father apart from the world, its morals and values. All believers are set apart to love God with all thine heart, soul and mind and to have an intimate fellowship with God our creator and Father. Holy living is living in the Spirit not according to the flesh as all believers have put to death the desires of the flesh. Holy living is allowing the manifestation of the fruit of the Spirit as outlined in Galatians 5:22-23 as these attributes are in direct contrast to those of sinful living. Holy living also means living a faithful life in total obedience to God, His will and ways. Additionally, holy living means yielding total control of our lives to the direction of the Holy Spirit who is God. To live holy lives the believer understands and accepts the sanctifying work of the Spirit according to God's will as He has called all believers out of darkness into the marvelous light to be in fellowship with Him through faith and in union with His Son Jesus Christ. With the aid of the Holy Spirit believers can maintain intimate fellowship with God and communion with Christ (John 15:4) and fellow believers to devote themselves to prayer, studying and obeying God's Word and become more sensitive to God's presence and His righteousness. Believers are called in righteousness to live holy.
HEAVENLY BREAD VOLUME 4 Issue 2 2012 Wed Feb 15
Be Forgiving Psalm 86:5 For thou, Lord, art good, and ready to forgive; and plenteous in mercy unto all them that call upon thee.
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he writer of this Psalm is reflecting on the forgiving nature of our Lord and His goodness. If we can continue reflecting on the forgiveness of God would be to say that God's love for all humanity was on display when His mercy spared mankind from eternal damnation through the atoning work of His Son Jesus Christ. God's forgiveness is displayed each day as He willingly forgives mankind for some wrong whether knowingly or unknowingly. In God's justice system His merciful arms are opened wide extending forgiveness to all who ask. With that being said, we as believers are imitating Christ; therefore, believers likewise must be willing to forgive as God our Father has forgiven us. Christ addressed the issue of forgiveness when Peter asked how often should we forgive and Christ's answer was "seventy times seven" (Matthew 18:22), which is in reality as often as needed. These questions come to mind, Are you willing to forgive others each time you have been wronged? As you forgive has the wrong been placed in the sea of forgetfulness or has the evil deed been covered over? Remember God placed our sins in the sea of forgetfulness, then why not do likewise? God forgives each time we ask. Be willing to forgive as we are forgiven.
HEAVENLY BREAD VOLUME 4 Issue 2 2012 Thu Feb 16
Stand Against Evil Daniel 3:16-18 ‌..Be it known unto thee, O King, that we will not serve thy gods, nor worship the golden image which thou hast set up.
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ur lesson study background takes place during the time of King Nebuchadnezzar's rule and he had erected a golden image and decreed that all should bow down and worship this as their god. Erecting this golden image violated 3-5 of the Ten Commandments which speaks against putting another god before God Almighty, bowing down and worshiping any god other than the God of creation of both heaven and earth. The three Hebrew boys stood firm in their faith in the face of death and refused to worship a false god made by the hands of man; instead they stood on the promises of God our Savior. What are we to do today? We as believers in today's society are to stand firm in the face of all evil just as the Hebrew boys did and trust God for deliverance. Yes, we will be tested as false gods are being erected in many formats in today's society, but believers must remember that the God of all creation is much larger and more powerful than any god man can and will create. Just as Jesus Christ our Savior was tested by Satan and withstood his tempting we can also by relying on the power of the Holy Spirit within whom Christ left for us. Stand firm on God's Word as it is true and everlasting.
HEAVENLY BREAD VOLUME 4 Issue 2 2012 Fri Feb 17
Be A Witness II Timothy 1:8 Be not thou therefore ashamed of the testimony of our Lord, nor of me his prisoner; but be thou partaker of the afflictions of the gospel according to the power of God;
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hapter 1 of II Timothy is a continuation of Paul's encouraging support for young Timothy who was a young minister of the gospel of Christ. Paul reminded young Timothy of his Christian heritage received from his grandmother Lois and mother Eunice who were devout Christians and they imparted biblical truths to Timothy. In God's own time He filled Timothy with His Spirit; therefore, Paul was encouraging Timothy not to be ashamed of the testimony he had to share with others. Believers today are encouraged not to be ashamed of the gospel of Christ as it is the message by which all men are saved. Every believer has a testimony to share as to when Christ came into his or her life. If we as believers are embarrassed to witness Christ before men shouldn't our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ be ashamed to own us before His Father? That is what He said. These questions come to mind; Why not wear our label of Christians proudly? Are we afraid that if we witness Christ we will be scoffed or persecuted? Christ told us that we would be hated because the world hated Him, but we are to persevere in faith knowing that we are never alone. Be a witness.
HEAVENLY BREAD VOLUME 4 Issue 2 2012 Sat Feb 18
Be A Servant Hebrews 13:16 But to do good and to communicate forget not for with such sacrifices God is will pleased.
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hat does it mean to be a servant? The term servant is defined as one who belongs to another (Student Bible Dictionary P. 212). In Romans 1:1 which describes Paul as a servant of Christ, which is a good thing. Paul in his service to Christ suffered many afflictions, but he remained steadfast in his work for Christ. Our greatest example of a servant is Christ Himself as He served at the will of His Father to the cross and beyond as He continues to make intercessions for believers. Reflect on Christ's earthly life and how He was misunderstood, rejected, and many times humiliated because the people saw Him as a man, but He was fully God in the flesh. Did He stop being a servant? Neither Paul nor Christ stop being a servant as both realized who had called them to do the works they were doings. Paul preached the gospel of Christ and Christ died on the cross for the sins of the world. What great servants and service? God has called each believer to serve in His vineyard; therefore, we must serve gallantly in doing the will of God in His kingdom building. Also, being a servant of Christ our Lord and Savior we have been freed from the bondage of sin to a life of righteousness. Believers, we are servants of God; therefore serve.
HEAVENLY BREAD VOLUME 4 Issue 2 2012 Sun Feb 19
Be Prayerful Hebrews 4:16; Matthew 7:7-8 Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.
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et's begin today's topical discussion by discussing what prayer is; prayer is our communication with God whether we are talking to or listening to God. Regularly praying to God establishes an intimate fellowship with God and increases our faith in Him and a more meaningful relationship with God. Why must believers be prayerful? It is important for believers to be prayerful in that prayers are essential to the Christian walk as it gives Christians the opportunity to hear from God. More importantly, God wants to commune with His people. Also, a prayerful life is one that is in close fellowship with God as the believer's footsteps are ordered and directed by God. There are different kinds of prayers such as prayers of thanksgiving, praises, intercessory, petitioning God for something and receiving God's blessings as the results of others praying for us. The question now becomes, How often should we pray? We should pray daily as many offer prayers to God several times a day. There is nothing sweeter than talking to God. Matthew 7:7-8 talks about prayer in asking, seeking and knocking, meaning that we are to be persistent in our prayers, but we are to ask, seek and knock in faith believing that God hears and will answer our prayer. Hebrews 4:16 tells us how we are to come to God-in boldness as we have a blood bought right to come to God. Jesus' blood gives us this right. If the question were raised, Why does it appear that some prayer warrior's prayers are more effective than others? The effectiveness of prayers is the condition of the prayer's heart more than the condition itself. Also, the prayer's faith plays a vital role in answered prayers as do the prayer's intimate relationship with God. How strong is your faith in what you pray for? Do you believe that God hears all prayers regardless of His answer? Do you believe that
HEAVENLY BREAD VOLUME 4 Issue 2 2012 God's delayed answers is testing and or increasing your faith? Do you continue to talk to God in prayer or do you give up? What prayers does God respond to? God responds to honest, sincere, and faithful prayers as He looks at the heart. In our prayers, let's align our desires with those of God as He knows best and will respond accordingly. Let me encourage you to remain prayerful and committed to our calling as we are servants of the most high God. "Prayers of the righteous availeth much" (James 5:16). Be prayerful!
HEAVENLY BREAD VOLUME 4 Issue 2 2012 Mon Feb 20
Trustworthy Psalm 37:3, 5 Trust in the Lord, and do good, so shalt thou dwell in the land, and verily thou shall be fed‌Commit thy way unto the Lord; trust also in Him; and He shall bring it to pass.
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ur lesson text is encouraging us to place our confidence in the Lord as He is trustworthy and is a God who can be trusted in all situations. The God of all creation is immutable and cannot lie; therefore, whatever God promises or say can be relied on to come to pass. The Bible is filled with promises made by God and promises kept. A trustworthy God! Proverbs 3:5 also encourages us to trust in God and refrain from relying on our own understanding. If the question were raised, Why must believers be trustworthy? Believers are set apart to live in holiness and grow in Christ-likeness; therefore, believers must be trustworthy in all that we say and do. Believers have assured confidence in God so must we have in one another. Trustworthiness is character building. With that being said, believers are building godly character in being trustworthy. Being in the family of God, believers are compelled to be trustworthy as He is. These thought provoking questions come to mind; Do I have enough confidence in God that I will stand for Him in the face of adversity knowing that He is with me? Can my fellowman depend on me regardless of the situation? Our dependability speaks to our trustworthiness.
HEAVENLY BREAD VOLUME 4 Issue 2 2012 Tue Feb 21
Sanctified In Christ I Corinthians 1:2 ‌..To them that are sanctified in Christ Jesus; called to be saints, with all that in every place call upon the name of Jesus Christ our Lord, both theirs and ours.
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hat does it mean to be sanctified in Christ? Sanctify means to set apart, to consecrate, to separate from someone or something or be called out from among (KJV). Sanctification is a cleansing process that all Christians go through in becoming like Christ. Sanctification is a life long process as we daily put death the sinful deed of the body with the aid of the Holy Spirit. With that being said, to be sanctified in Christ means that all believers has been separated from sin and called into a life of righteousness to live in obedience to God with a commitment to do His will By God's grace Christians have died to sin with Christ and are no longer in bondage to its dominion and power. Being sanctified in Christ brings the believer into a one-to-one relationship with God. This enables the believer to live in a new nature which produces fruit of the Spirit where all believers can live victorious both now and hereafter. Lastly, being sanctified in Christ means all believers are adopted sons of God adopted into His royal family of priests and His holy nation. Being sanctified in Christ carries blessings beyond measure as we are saints called into His holiness. Sanctified in Christ means we are separated from the world while we remain in the world.
HEAVENLY BREAD VOLUME 4 Issue 2 2012 Wed Feb 22
Crucified With Christ Galatians 2:20 I am crucified with Christ; nevertheless I live; yet no 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.
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aul makes a profound declaration on what it means to be a believer as all believers are crucified with Christ by sharing in His death on the cross and was raised with Him to a new life of holiness and righteous living. Being crucified with Christ is the result of our belief in Him as Lord and Savior at which time believers become consecrated for loving service to Him. Paul also recognized that it was the "Christ" in him that was living through him that enabled Paul to live a life of righteousness. The same is true for believers today. Paul recognized the love of God that allowed Him to give His Son Jesus who gave Himself for you and me. Therefore, being crucified with Christ means that believers died with Christ to the law as a means for salvation (v. 19) as salvation is by faith in Jesus Christ through God's grace. The law could not save anyone, but showed the need for salvation. Being crucified with Christ and raised with Him we can now live by the Spirit as it is a result of our faith. Believers died with Christ in order to live again with Him. What a death!
HEAVENLY BREAD VOLUME 4 Issue 2 2012 Thu Feb 23
Clothed In Righteousness Philippians 3:9 And be found in Him, not having mine own righteousness, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith.
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hat Paul is saying in this discourse to the Philippians believers is that all of his righteousness is through his faith in Jesus Christ that was imparted to him by God. This belief principle is applicable to all believers both then and now. This brings into focus the scripture which states that all of our righteousness is as filthy rags before God (Isaiah 64:6), but thanks be to God He didn't allow His prized creation to remain in such filth that He forgave us, justified us and accepted us through the atoning work of His Son Jesus Christ. What a forgiving God? It is noteworthy to say that believers' faith in Jesus Christ is the key to our righteousness as our righteousness is in Jesus Christ. Jesus' sacrificial death on the cross and His shed blood is the believer's only hope of righteousness and salvation. With that being said, believers are clothed in righteousness because of the work of Christ and our faith in Him and now we live with Him in a life of righteousness. Believers remain clothed in righteousness by the indwelling Holy Spirit's presence and yielding our desires to His, reading and meditating on God holy Word and communicating with God through prayer. Also, it is noteworthy to say as we remain in union with Christ and Him in us we remain connected to our righteous branch-Christ. Christ's righteousness covers the believer.
HEAVENLY BREAD VOLUME 4 Issue 2 2012 Fri Feb 24
Salvation God's Garment Of Righteousness Isaiah 61:10 I will greatly rejoice in the Lord, my soul shall be joyful in my God; for He hath clothed me with the garment of salvation, He hath covered me with the robe of righteousness, as a bridegroom decketh himself with ornaments, and as a bride adorneth herself with her jewels.
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he prophet Isaiah makes a profound analogy of the beauty of his and all believers' salvation as it is compared to a wedding between the bridegroom and bride. Reflect on the many weeding you have seen and how beautiful they were and then look at our marriage relationship between believer and Christ. What a beautiful sight to see and what beauty there in salvation? Given the magnitude of the blessings received from being saved is reason to shout with joy and make a joyful noise unto the Lord because it was by His grace and mercy that He loved mankind enough that the two (God and man) would spend eternity together. Let's look at what God done; He redeemed us so He could dress us in His "robe of righteousness" so that we as believers can and will live according to His standards. God being the loving Father that He is made provisions for our every need both spiritually and physically. What a loving God! When the statement "God is the God of my salvation" is uttered is powerful given the exclusivity of salvation in that believers belong to the elite club of a holy nation, a royal priesthood and a peculiar generation (1 Peter 2:9). Yes, believers we are special because we are dressed in God's righteousness-salvation.
HEAVENLY BREAD VOLUME 4 Issue 2 2012 Sat Feb 25
Christians' Wardrobe Ephesians 6:11-18 Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against rulers of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.
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hristians are engaged in a spiritual warfare of faith, which sometimes causes Christians to suffer hardships for the sake of the gospel, but Christians persevere in faith. Christians will be victorious as Christians are in union with Christ and He has won the victory; while here on earth Christians are protected. Christians' wardrobe consists of the following: (a) we are to gird up our loins with truth as God's truth will stand the test of time. (b) Christians are to wear the breastplate of righteousness as our righteousness is in Jesus Christ. (c) Each Christian is to have his or her feet shod with the gospel of peace as we represent Christ and His peace as He is the God of peace. (d) Christians are to shield themselves with faith. With a strong faith in God we will be able to quench the fiery darts of all wickedness as our faith will be tested. (e) As a covering, Christians are to wear the helmet of salvation as it is assured in Jesus Christ and sealed with the Holy Spirit. (f) Christians are to carry his or her offensive weapon-the sword, which is God's Word-the Bible. (g) Lastly, Christians are to always pray while we persevere and make supplications for all other Christians. Wear your wardrobe proudly.
HEAVENLY BREAD VOLUME 4 Issue 2 2012 Sun Feb 26
Obey God II Corinthians 10:5-6 Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God; and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ; And having in the readiness to revenge all disobedience, when your obedience is fulfilled.
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esterday's focus discussion was on the Christians' wardrobe as we fight this spiritual warfare, but today's focus discussion is on obeying God as we fight the good fight of faith (1 Timothy 6:12; 2 Timothy 4:7). In doing so we stand firm in obedience to God (Ephesians 6:14). We will destroy the strongholds of Satan (2 Corinthians 10:4), while capturing every thought that is unlike God (2 Corinthians 10:5). We will not be frightened by the enemy (Philippians 1:28) because we are more than conquerors in Christ Jesus and have become powerful in this spiritual battle (Hebrews 11:34). It is through our commitment to God and to do His will we become strong and more courageous in this fight which will cause the enemy to flee. With that being said, Christians have every reason to obey God as this spiritual warfare has been raging since Satan was kicked out of heaven for wanting to be greater than his creator. The battle believers are engaged in isn't between man and Satan it is between God and Satan. Christians are in the army of God and have decided to fight Satan in every corner of this world. Satan vowed to destroy God's kingdom, but we know that will never be because God is all powerful and stated that "if man fail to speak for me I will have the rocks to cry out and say, what thus saith the Lord." The most powerful reason to obey God is because what He done for all humanity, which is He saved us from being eternally separated from Him and the bondage of sin and Satan's dominion. Living out of the ark of salvation our souls will spend eternity in torment. Who wants that? Let us explore another reason to obey God; God created us in His image and likeness, made provisions for all our needs physical and
HEAVENLY BREAD VOLUME 4 Issue 2 2012 spiritual as well as providing for eternal life. Being that we are created in the image and likeness of God means that we were created to be holy, righteous, loving, merciful, joyful, peaceful and to be in fellowship with God and worship Him. Being that we were created to be like God, but we cannot if we are following Satan and His lies. God separated us from this world to join His holy family of royal priests. More importantly, obeying God shows gratitude of thanks for what He and His Son Jesus Christ did for us so that we might live in holiness with Him. Disobedience entered through one man-Adam and existed through one man-Christ. Obey Him is all that He asks and He gives us the means by which to do so-the Holy Spirit who lives in us to teach, guide and direct our paths. Obey God.
HEAVENLY BREAD VOLUME 4 Issue 2 2012 Mon Feb 27
Be A Cheerful Giver II Corinthians 9:6-8 Every man according as he purposed in his heart, so let him give, not grudgingly, or of necessity; for God loveth a cheerful giver; And God is able to make all grace abound towards you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work;
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grew up with the phrase "it is better to give than to receive" which has taken on a deeper meaning in my life as I grew in Christ while coming to know that God supplies all my needs as promised in Philippians 4:19. Our lesson text supports my early childhood training and scripture text. How can we give and have it pleasing to God? First, we must be cheerful as stated in scripture, and then give from the heart as God looks on the heart and sees the motive behind our giving. Second, as we willingly give we are imitating God as He willingly gave His Son to redeem us back from sin and Christ willingly gave His life in the redemption process, then the Son sent the Holy Spirit to live in each believer to keep us focus. What are we to give? First, we are to dedicate our lives back to God; second, we are to give Him a reasonable portion of dedicated service, and third we are to give the first fruits of our lips each morning when we rise, which is communing with God in prayer. We are to give the fruits of our labor-tithes, our talents and time in service to Him and others. The more we give the more God gives back to us.
HEAVENLY BREAD VOLUME 4 Issue 2 2012 Tue Feb 28
One In Christ Galatians 3:28 There is neither Jew nor Greeks, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female; for ye are all one in Christ Jesus.
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n the context of our lesson study, Paul was teaching the Galatians' believers the importance of the law as it was seen as a schoolmaster which pointed out the need for salvation. On the other hand the believer's faith in Jesus Christ superseded the law, which the law brought believers to Christ. If the question were raised, How do believers become one in Christ? All believers died to sin with Christ and rose with Him to a life of righteousness as a result of God's grace. There is not need to concern ourselves with race, gender or skin complexion. Therefore, the only nationality to be concerned with is being a holy nation, which is a generation of believers dedicated to God and His righteousness simply because all believers are one in Christ. Verses 26-27 answer the question specifically on how believers become one in Christ. Faith is a vital part of the process and being baptized in Christ is the other. Believers remain one in Christ through our remaining in union with Him through prayer, abiding by His Spirit and obeying the Word of God as it "is a lamp unto our feet and a light unto our path" (Psalm 119:105). Lastly, believers have the Holy Spirit who seals us in our oneness with Christ. All believers are in Christ.
HEAVENLY BREAD VOLUME 4 Issue 2 2012 Wed Feb 29
Sealed With The Holy Spirit Ephesians 1:13 In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that Holy Spirit of promise,
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o seal something or someone is to show ownership, but in relationship to God and as believers we have been sealed with the Holy Spirit to show God's ownership which lets Satan know that we are God's property. II Corinthians 1:22 speaks of believers being sealed with the Holy Spirit as God's property and as believers yield to the guidance of the Holy Spirit we produce godly character. Another point of view on being sealed with the Holy Spirit believers are empowered to boldly witness Christ the world over (Acts 1:8), as He gives the believer power to persevere in faith as believers carry the gospel of Christ forward. Being sealed with the Holy Spirit, believers have the heart and desire to do the will of God and to stand firm in the face of evil in this spiritual warfare. Being sealed with the Holy Spirit, the believer draws near to God (2:18), and is aided in building the believer's body into the temple of God (2:21-22). Also, being sealed with the Holy Spirit promotes and motivates unity among believers in the faith community where it can and will grow into full Christ-likeness (4:3.13-14). Believers, we are sealed by God's Spirit-the Holy Spirit; therefore we grieve Him when we continue in sin. Yield to Him and sin no more for we are God's property.
HEAVENLY BREAD VOLUME 4 Issue 2 2012 Thank you for allowing me to share God’s Word with you.
Advertisements: I am available for workshops, seminars, speaking engagements, and book signings. Visit website at www.shepherdministries.info.com white3285@sbcglobal.net All books, articles, devotionals and coming DVD’s are available through my website www.shepherdministries.info.com Amazon.com, all Christian book stores, or by writing 21514 Green Hill Rd Ste. 141, Farmington Hills, MI48335
HEAVENLY BREAD VOLUME 4 Issue 2 2012 Bio Dr. WILLIE B. WHITE holds two Masters of Arts degree in Adult education (MA Ed, MA SED and an Honorary Doctorate). Ms. White is a certified Dean and instructor in Christian Education, a college professor and special education teacher K-12. She frequently publishes articles in The Informer magazine of the SSPB. First book, “The Lord is My Shepherd”, (2007) PublishAmerica. “An Expose Of The Holy Spirit”, released June 2009, “Heavenly Bread”, released July 2009, a monthly devotional. Ms. White publishes a weekly blog discussion Uplifting Insighthttp://willie-writing.blogspot.com. Works in progress, DVD Who is God? An inspirational video, next books, God’s Moral laws: The Ten Commandments, and My Faith Journey with Jesus. All material is available through www.shepherdministries.info.com, or by writing to 21514 Green Hill Rd. Ste 141, Farmington Hills, MI 48335
HEAVENLY BREAD VOLUME 4 Issue 2 2012