March Devotional 2012 by Dr. Willie B White

HEAVENLY HEAVENLYBREAD BREADVOLUME VOLUME44Issue Issue332012 2012

A monthly devotional with inspiring words for daily living

HEAVENLY BREAD VOLUME 4 Issue 3 2012

Grow In Christ

HEAVENLY BREAD VOLUME 4 Issue 3 2012

HEAVENLY BREAD MISSION AND GOALS

eavenly breadâ&#x20AC;&#x2DC;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 Christâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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 3 2012 Thu Mar 1

Be In Fellowship With God Psalm 16:8 I have set the Lord always before me; because He is at my right hand, I shall not be moved.

f I had to supply my understanding of the term fellowship it would be that Christians have the mind of Christ in that they share the same feelings and emotions as Christ for the sins of this world. Also, I understand the term to mean having a close relationship with God and other Christians. I also understand the word to mean sharing in and participating in the faith community as we share a common trust in one another and God most of all. Therefore, being in fellowship with God mean Christians are in agreement as to whom God is and His Son's atoning work on Calvary providing salvation to all who believe in Him. It is then noteworthy to say that all believers have a restored fellowship with God and as believers grow in Christ; His presence and counsel is felt (vv 7-11). Being in fellowship with God believers have God's protection (v. 8), joy (vv. 9, 11), resurrection (v. 10) and endless blessings (v. 11), which is the result of our salvation. Fellowship with God is achieved and maintained through daily scripture reading, meditating on the Word and yielding control of our lives to the Holy Spirit. There is no greater fellowship than with God the Father. This fellowship permeates our soul, which manifest Christ in our lives. Fellowship with God is an intimate relationship with Him.

HEAVENLY BREAD VOLUME 4 Issue 3 2012 Fri Mar 2

Hope In The Lord Psalm 16:9 Therefore my heart is glad, and my glory rejoiceth; my flesh also shall rest in hope.

esterday's discussion focused on being in fellowship with God and the blessings derived from it, but today's focus is Christians' hope in God. The difference between the believer's hope and the unbeliever is that the believer's hope is with certainty that God will do whatever He promises. The believer's hope is based on a divine fact that God is faithful to His Word. Whereas the unbeliever's hope is more of a wishful thinking of what they will like to see come to pass. With that being said, the believer has reasons to rejoice and be glad as his or her hope rest in God. Believers' hope is based on the fact that God promised a Savior Jesus came and redeemed us from eternally separation from God. What a blessed hope! OT believers lived in hope of the coming Messiah and He came; we now hope for His return and He will. Therefore, believers can live with an assured hope of Christ's return for His churchbelievers. Given the fact that the believer's hope rests in God these questions come to mind, Is your hope in God or man? Do you take confidence in the fact that whatever God promises it will come to pass? There is no greater hope than in God.

HEAVENLY BREAD VOLUME 4 Issue 3 2012 Sat Mar 3

Honor One Another Romans 12:10 Be kindly affectioned one to another with brother love; in honour preferring one another.

n looking at the definition of the word "honor" both the verb and noun form of the word has a meaning of respect for others. Giving and receiving respect is human nature. There is an old saying that I grew up with "in order to receive respect one must first give respect." Give honor to receive honor. From the Christian perspective of the word "honor" we are to be thoughtful to our fellowman in love as God loves us; in doing so we emulate the love of God. 1 Thessalonians 4:9-10 encourages us to love one another and our lesson text talks about being kind to one another with brotherly love. With that being said, if we give respect and love we will receive love and honor. We show honor and love to one another by giving of our selves with a loving heart. God is worthy of all honor and praise for who He is and what He has and continues to do in the lives of all mankind. God honors all mankind (Psalm 8:5). If the question were raised, Why does God honors man so much? Man was created in the image and likeness of God and for a special purpose to God, which is to be in fellowship with God. God gave man a mind, soul and a will to choose right from wrong and when man disobeys God he loses his honor with God. When Adam disobeyed God he was cast out of the Garden of Eden; a broken fellowship ensued and Christ came to restore the fellowship. Honor one another as God honors you and I.

HEAVENLY BREAD VOLUME 4 Issue 3 2012 Sun Mar 4

Be Steadfast In Christ 1 Corinthians 15:58 Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye steadfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as you know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord.

erses 51-57 talks about the change that will occur to all that are in Christ as death is just the end of this life and our eternal life begins. We will not enter heaven in these corruptible bodies as all believers must put on incorruptible and the mortal shall put on immortality (v. 53) and all who are dead in Christ will be raised to incorruptible bodies (v. 52); while all who are alive when Christ returns will be changed "in the twinkling of an eye" (v. 52). The message Paul is conveying is that all believers must remain faithful in his or her walk with Christ, because as promised He is coming back again for His church. We must not be swayed by every wind of doctrine, trial and tribulations that we are sure to encounter as we walk this Christian journey. We as believers must have our spiritual roots/faith planted deep in Christ our Christian soil. God the Holy Spirit waters us so that we may grow and remain firmly rooted in Christ. God knew that Satan would try to redirect our journey so He left the Holy Spirit who resides in each believer to guide us as we travel this journey. Another encouraging point in Paul's message is that when working for the Lord is never in vain as He rewards His laborers with a crown of righteousness and will say "good and faithful servant well done" (Matthew 25:21). How can believers remain steadfast in Christ? This is accomplished by daily Bible reading, meditating on His Word, communicating with God daily through prayer and yielding control of our lives to the Holy Spirit. Given the promises of God and the sweet rewards of being saved it behooves all believers to remain steadfast in Christ letting nothing come between us and our Lord and Savior as there is nothing

HEAVENLY BREAD VOLUME 4 Issue 3 2012 that can deter His love of us. Also, given what we know about Christ our Savior and His goodness is reason enough to continue growing in Christ and abounding in His Word because the closer we come to Christ the easier the journey becomes. There are many blessings for remaining steadfast in the Lord and they are (a) we as believers get to live forever, (b) believers get to see our Savior face-to-face, (c) there is no more pain and suffering, (d) no more tears to shed and (e) believers will live with Him in the new City of Jerusalem. Steadfastness in Christ will pay off after while.

HEAVENLY BREAD VOLUME 4 Issue 3 2012 Mon Mar 5

"Endure Unto The End" Matthew 24:13 But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved.

esterday's discussion we discussed steadfastness, but our focus today is enduring unto the end, which means we will maintain our focus on Jesus Christ and destination-heaven which is our home. In order for Christians to endure the many hardships and trials that we will encounter in this Christian race, we must not become deterred, weary and discouraged as this is part of Satan's master plan to hinder God's kingdom building. The Christian race isn't one that will be completed overnight; instead it is a journey that can be compared to a person traveling to a far country and it takes a long time to get there, but through endurance the journey is completed. To complete this faith journey one must be committed in his or her faith walk with Christ. The Christian faith walk is not for the faint of heart, but to those who says I will stand for Christ in the face of all manner of evil and declare that Christ is Lord. Let's close this discussion by saying, enduring unto the end mean passing the perseverance test knowing that we have the indwelling Holy Spirit to aid us as we go. Life isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t one of swiftness instead one of perseverance (Ecclesiastes 9:11). Perseverance and endurance works together.

HEAVENLY BREAD VOLUME 4 Issue 3 2012 Tue Mar 6

An Honored Vessel Unto The Lord II Timothy 2:21 If a man therefore purges himself from these, he shall be a vessel unto honor, sanctified, and meet for the master's use, and prepared unto every good work.

irst and second Timothy and Titus are commonly referred to as Pastoral letters written to Timothy at Ephesus and Titus at Crete regarding pastoral care of the church. Paul's message is applicable today as many churches are becoming worldlier and compromising the Word of God. In many churches there are items that man considers honorable while omitting what God honors most. What God honor most is His faithful servants who have separated themselves from the world as all believers are sanctified by the blood of Jesus Christ to do the work of God. Believers are to let their work be acceptable to God by rightly dividing His word of truth (v. 15). This is accomplished by studying God's Word then allowing it to permeate our souls as it becomes meat for our spiritual lives. Believers become dishonored vessels by participating in vain babbling and spreading false doctrines. This kind of work is not of God. How do believers remain honored vessels of God? First, believers become honored vessels through ones faith in Jesus Christ. Second, separating one self from the world and its systems and third, standing on the true foundation of God's Word and principles (v. 19). As an honored vessel of God believers are prepared to do good works for the Lord (v. 21).

HEAVENLY BREAD VOLUME 4 Issue 3 2012 Wed Mar 7

Walk In Righteousness Psalm 119:9 Wherewithal shall a young man cleanse his way? by taking heed thereto according to thy Word.

he writer of this Psalm poses a profound question that is applicable to all who desires to walk in the righteousness of God. For man to cleanse himself of all wrong doings is to recognize who God is that He is sovereign, above all, through all and in all. Therefore, adhere to God's commandments as His ways are far better than man's. It is through the righteousness of Christ that all who believe has been cleanse and have been washed in the blood of Jesus Christ. Therefore, to walk in the righteousness of God one must stay in the Word of God through daily reading, meditation and then adhering to what the Word says. God's Word isn't to punish man, but to correct man, reproof, give instructions and to teach him God's ways (II Timothy 3:16). To walk in God's righteousness one must spiritually separate himself from the world in doing so one show forth the fruit of the spirit as God's Spirit lives in each believer (Galatians 5:52-23). How is your walk/lifestyle? Is your lifestyle manifesting Christ in you? Who is in control of your life self or God the Holy Spirit? All who walk in the righteousness of God is being controlled by His Spirit as all our righteousness are as filthy rags before God (Isaiah 65:6). God is righteousness walk therein!

HEAVENLY BREAD VOLUME 4 Issue 3 2012 Thu Mar 8

Live Regenerated Lives Titus 3:3-5 Not by works of righteousness that we have done, but according to His mercy He saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost.

hristians have the ability to live regenerated lives because of the Godhead working together on man's behalf. This is made possible by God's grace and mercy, Christ's atoning work at Calvary and the Holy Spirit who constantly imparts His Spirit into the life of the believer. All believers are new creatures in Christ as believers have died to sin with Christ and rose to a life of righteousness in Christ and now live righteousness lives (1 John 2:29), which gives the ability to love others (1 John 4:7) and avoid a life of sin (1 John 3:9; 5:18) brought on by Satan's lies and deception. With that being said, believers have a renewed mind and a heart to live for Christ in order to do the perfect and acceptable will of God (Romans 12:2). The world and its antics have no affect on the believer because of the regeneration that has taken place in the believer's life. It is noteworthy to say that living regenerated lives the believers sees things from God's perspective and know that God's will and way is best as it is the highest order of things. Lastly, the regenerated believer has a new relationship with God as He is their Father and throughout this earthly life His glory shines through. Regeneration is our spiritual birth.

HEAVENLY BREAD VOLUME 4 Issue 3 2012 Fri Mar 9

Be Filled With The Holy Ghost Acts 13:52 And the disciples were filled with joy, and the Holy Ghost

hat does it mean to be filled with the Holy Ghost/Spirit? First, let us say that the Holy Spirit is God in the third person who resides in each believer as each believer is baptized in the Holy Spirit after conversion (Acts 1:5; 2:4). Second, to be filled with the Holy Spirit means that this is a continuous daily activity so the believer is prepared for worshipping God, giving service to God and witnessing Christ the world over (Acts 4:31-33; 6:3). Believers experience the joy of being filled with the Holy Spirit by faith in Jesus Christ and living accordingly. The joy of being filled with the Holy Spirit who creates an unspeakable joy that the world didn't give nor can the world take it away. Being filled with the Holy Spirit creates a desire and a hunger for the Word of God. There is also a desire to commune with God through prayer and offer songs of praise while giving thanks for His grace and mercy. Being filled with the Holy Spirit the believer submits to the will of the Holy Spirit as He leads, guide and directs the believer's path. Being filled with the Holy Spirit, the believer is as calm as the still of the night when the entire world around you is in turmoil. There is no filling like being filled with the Holy Spirit.

HEAVENLY BREAD VOLUME 4 Issue 3 2012 Sat Mar 10

Be A Living Testimony Psalm 25:10 All the paths of the Lord are mercy and truths unto such as keep His covenant and His testimonies.

he best way for me to describe what a living testimony is by giving my personal testimony by saying during the 1990's when I suffered three heart attacks and I felt that I would have to leave my sick son who had suffered a serious car accident nor would I live to get to the age I am today. The doctors told me that my son would always be a burden on me. I went to God in prayer asking Him to seal my son so that when I died he be able to care for himself and let me live to see my grandson finish college and become successful in his career path. My son is well and living on his own; my grandson is a second year college student on a basketball scholarship and today I can brag about being a senior and give God all the praise and thank Him for answered prayers. I promised God I would continue dedicating my life to Him and He has blessed me with a writing and teaching ministry that is spreading to parts of the world I may never visit. Just look at God! He is a healer and a prayer answering God. All believers like me have a personal testimony of the goodness of the Lord. Share your testimony of what God has done in your life.

HEAVENLY BREAD VOLUME 4 Issue 3 2012 Sun Mar 11

Live To Glorify God 1 Corinthians 6:20 For ye are bought with a price; therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's.

aul in his writing to the Corinthians believers is explaining why they are to glorify God is because all believers are bought with a price-the precious blood of our Lord and Savor Jesus Christ. Consider the cost factor of our redemption, God gave His Son and Jesus gave His life. What a price to pay, what a God to glorify! Paul continues his discourse of explaining how believers are to glorify God in body and spirit as both belongs to God. God's spirit lives in us; when we were created God breathed His spirit into man and he became a living soul. Given all that God has done in our lives this question come to mind, How can we not glorify God? It is hard to imagine living out of the safety of God's protective arm. Does it show a spirit of ungratefulness for failing to glorify God? If the question were raise, How can I live so that I can glorify God? This can be accomplished through holy living which is according to His Word and commandments. One must remember that your body is the temple of God-the Holy Spirit and He cannot and will not live in an unclean house (v. 16). Therefore, one must avoid all manner of evil and ungodliness. There must a spiritual separation from this world and its systems as they are contrary to God and His ways. Believers being members of Christ's body we must take every precaution from becoming morally negligence or spiritually corrupt. Also, living to glorify God is to present our bodies as living sacrifices to God (Romans 12:1) in our worship, praise and service to Him. Living to glorify God these questions come to mind, Do your lifestyle manifest the Spirit of God in you as God's Spirit is a mark of His ownership of all believers? Is the Holy Spirit controlling your life? Is Christ the center of your life? Does the world see manifestations of the fruit of the spirit in your daily lives? God is worthy of all honor, praise and is to be glorified. If Christ the Son of God glorified the

HEAVENLY BREAD VOLUME 4 Issue 3 2012 Father why do you and I. He is worthy! Lastly, all nature bow before God and honor Him with their praise. Nature and the heavenly bodies moves at His will and in obedience to His command as there is glory and honor in obedience. The moon, sun and stars shine to the glory of God; all believers are to live so they too can glorify God our creator. Glory and honor belongs to God, glorify Him.

HEAVENLY BREAD VOLUME 4 Issue 3 2012 Mon Mar 12

Honor God Proverbs 3:9 Honour the Lord with thy substance, and with the firstfruits of all thine increase.

he history of honoring God with the firstfruits of our resources has its beginning with the nation of Israel (Leviticus 23:10; 25:23; Numbers18:12-13) as a means of honoring God as Lord and who is the rightful owner of everything. Also, honoring God acknowledges that everything belongs to Him and He has made us stewards over His resources. Therefore, we today like the Old Testament Israelites should honor God with the firstfruits of our income and harvest. We are to honor God with the fruits of our lips each morning through prayer and praises. Honoring God with the firstfruits of what God has blessed us with is an expression of gratitude while recognizing all that God blesses us with is His. Malachi 3:10 and 1 Samuel 2:30 records promises made by God of what will happen when we make God first in our giving. God promise to bless us in return beyond measure and God is faithful to His promise. It is noteworthy to say that when we give God the firstfruit of our resources we gain even more than what was given. This is because we have God the giver of all and the remaining portion of what we gave. God plus ninety-nine equal one hundred. Believers honor God through service as we have been set apart for service. Service can be in the form of time and talent in the church and community. Our firstfruit, time and talent honors God; honor Him.

HEAVENLY BREAD VOLUME 4 Issue 3 2012 Tue Mar 13

Worship God John 4:24 God is a Spirit; and they that worship Him must worship Him in spirit and in truth.

ur topical discussion text makes a profound statement on who God is and how one must worship Him. To worship God other than in truth is hypocrisy as He is truth and the insincere worshiper is looked upon as a hypocrite. What God requires from all worshipers is truth, honesty and sincerity with a heart that is focused on Him. In verse 23 Jesus reveals several important points on worshiping God in spirit and truth and they are (a) worshipping in the spirit points to the level at which true worship occurs. Often times during church/worship service and the entire congregation is on one accord in worshipping God His presence is felt as all hearts and minds are focused on God. (b) To worship God in truth is a characteristic of God the Father, the incarnated Christ, and the intrinsic Holy Spirit who resides in every believer. With that being said, all who worship and have set aside the truth of God's Word have in actuality set aside the very foundation of true worship. It is noteworthy for me to say that the purpose of worship is to draw near to God with an expression of joy and thankfulness for what He has done and continues to do in the lives of all believers. So then let's say that worship constitutes an expressed adoration and attitude that is God-centered. Worship God with your total being.

HEAVENLY BREAD VOLUME 4 Issue 3 2012 Wed Mar 14

Grow In Love 1 Thessalonians 3:12 And the Lord make you to increase and abound in love one toward another, and towards all men, even as we do towards you.

oday's topical discussion scripture text is talking about how the Lord increases your love for all men as He loved all mankind. How do we grow in love toward all men and our faithfulness to God is by emulating God and His love. God loved us first while we were yet enemies of God and alienated from Him; He never stopped loving mankind and gave His only begotten Son to die on the cross for the sins of the world. What love! What God ask of mankind is to accept His Son Jesus Christ as Savior and all who do will receive the blessed benefits of His sweet salvation which carries spending eternal life with Him. We are encouraged to love one another, because we cannot say we love God and hate our brother, if so, then there is not truth in us and is not of God (1 John 4:20). If the question were raise, How do we as believers grow in love? First, we are to reflect on God and His love and compare is to a husband loving his wife and the wife being submissive to her husband. Christ is the husband and church is the wife-bride. Second, we learn of the sweetness of God's love through daily Bible reading, prayer, remaining in union with Christ. The more we learn of God and His ways the more we learn and grow in love.

HEAVENLY BREAD VOLUME 4 Issue 3 2012 Thu Mar 15

Commit To The Lord Proverbs 16:3 Commit thy works unto the Lord, and thy thoughts shall be established.

hat is our scripture text saying to us? What this verse is saying that all believers should consider God's ways and Will before undertaking anything. This includes speaking and any endeavors in life, because God's ways and thoughts are superior to man. His ways leads to righteousness. Works that are committed to God will glorify Him and His blessings will abound. Glorify God in all that we do. Proverbs 3:5-6 encourages all believers to commit to the Lord in our understanding and acknowledging God and His ways. This is because our understanding is limited compared to God's and to acknowledge Him in all that we do is placing complete trust in Him. In committing to the Lord believers is acknowledging that God is supreme, He knows all, sees all and shall direct our paths and in doing we as believers can do all things through Christ who strengthen us (Philippians 4:13). It is noteworthy to say by committing to the Lord we as believers are willing and has submitted control of our lives to God the Holy Spirit and allow Him to order our footsteps. Committing to the Lord is saying yes I am thankful to God for His love and now I can taste the sweetness of His salvation. Committing to the Lord is a sign of humility.

HEAVENLY BREAD VOLUME 4 Issue 3 2012 Fri Mar 16

Live In The Fullness Of God Colossians 1:19 For it pleased the Father that in Him all fullness dwell.

ur scripture text makes a very profound statement regarding Christ and His deity which states that the Godhead is represented in Christ Jesus our Savior. When one accepts Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior they too is living in the fullness of the Godhead; simply because God the Father gave the gift of salvation based on ones faith in Jesus Christ who died on the cross for the sins of the world, then God the Holy Spirit lives in each believer. If the question were raised, Who is the Godhead that believers dwell in? Jesus Christ is God, the Holy Spirit is God and God the Father is God one God who operates in three distinct personalities for man's well-being. With that being said, all believers operate under the control God the Holy Spirit who dwells in each of us. How do we yield control to the Holy Spirit? We yield control to the Holy Spirit by daily communing with God through daily Bible reading, meditating on His Word and daily prayer. The closer our relationship become the greater our desire for the truth of His Word and to be in His presence. An intimate relationship will have developed which is God's desire. The believer's self examination will have answered this question, Am I living to the full potential as God wants because I have surrendered all to Him so my life is God-focused or am I still being controlled by self? Blesses is he who live in the fullness of God.

HEAVENLY BREAD VOLUME 4 Issue 3 2012 Sat Mar 17

Labor In His Vineyard Matthew 9:37 â&#x20AC;Ś.The harvest truly is plenteous, but the labourers are few.

s Jesus was preaching and teaching during His earthly ministry He saw the need for more committed labourers to spread the gospel message as there were many lost souls just as it is today. As we reflect on the lost state of our society today and compare it to the sinful conditions during Jesus' day this question comes to mind, As the gospel of Christ is being proclaimed the world over is people refusing to hear and believe? Do they believe there is a hell and unless they repent they will be eternally separated from God? There is need for more labourers to proclaim the truth of God's Word. It is noteworthy to say that every believer who has committed him or herself to the gospel of Christ is commissioned by Christ to preach and teach His gospel the world over. Every believer has a gospel message to share of what God has done in his or her life. Just tell the story! It is noteworthy to say that the gospel of Christ is being proclaimed the world over, but many are refusing to repent as they are caught up in self-indulgence and will be eternally separated from God. However, there is room for Christian workers to continue preaching and teaching the gospel of Christ as this is the message unto salvation. Believers, we are to pray that God sends more labourers into His vineyard (v. 38) as we continue laboring for the Lord. Christian ambassadors our work is not in vain.

HEAVENLY BREAD VOLUME 4 Issue 3 2012 Sun Mar 18

"Be A Doer Of The Word" James 1:22 But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves. hat does it means to be a doer of the word of God? When James the brother of Jesus was writing to the Jewish believers giving them encouragement as their faith was being tested by the many trials they were facing. He was outlining the proper conduct for Christians both then and now as all Christians are to obey all of God's Word instead of selecting the part that is easy to adhere to. This is because all of God's Word is to be adhered to as all of it is profitable for correction, reproof and instructions for our benefit (II Timothy 3:16). Verse 21 talks about laying aside all filthiness and live separate holy lives unto God, which is what God requires. Remember that God's Word promotes healthy clean holy living as His Spirit dwells in each believer and God cannot and will not live in an unholy place. It is noteworthy to say that being more than just a hearer of God's Word means it is engrained in our souls to the point that it controls our thoughts and actions. Believers have been swept clean of the filth of sin and have been replaced God's righteousness as believers have been sanctified by the atoning work of Christ. This is a serious matter as our holiness is embodied in Christ Jesus our Lord. With that being said, being a doer of the Word of God says yes I am adopted into the family of God as one of His children, have committed my ways unto Him and is living by His commandments. In doing so the world will see Christ manifested in every believer. Signs of a doer of the Word is evidenced in some of the following ways (a) having a spirit of humility, (b) loving thy neighbor as thyself, (c) sharing the gospel of Christ (witnessing), (d) serving God through serving others, (e) giving God our firstfruits, whether money, time and or talents, (f) being Christ-centered instead of selfcentered, (g) living sanctified lives by being separated from this world and its systems, (h) manifesting the fruit of the Spirit, (i) being

HEAVENLY BREAD VOLUME 4 Issue 3 2012 baptized and filled with the Holy Spirit, and (j) lastly, loving God with our total being recognizing who He is and what He has done and continues to do. Let's close this discussion by asking, Is being a doer of God's Word a testament to one faith in God? James 2: 17 state that faith without works is dead and true faith is evidenced by ones works (v. 21); therefore, being a doer of the Word our faith is on display. Stand firm on God's Word; continue doing what God has called you to do. Be a doer not just a hearer.

HEAVENLY BREAD VOLUME 4 Issue 3 2012 Mon Mar 19

Obey God's Commandments Psalm 119:66 Teach me good judgment and knowledge; for I have believed thy commandments.

hat commandments the writer is willing to obey? Commandments are God's ordinances which God provides for holy living as man sojourn here on earth. Therefore, the writer of this particular Psalm longs to obey God's commandments and is evidenced by asking God to teach him good judgment and knowledge. This is a testament to the willingness to know and do what is required to please God. This Psalm also acknowledges that God ways and knowledge far supersedes that of man and is far better. Also, to be willing to know, believe and do according to God's commandments is a further testimony to humility, which is having the right view of God, self and others. Allow me once again to reference Proverbs 3:5-6 which talks about the fallibility of leaning to ones own understanding while encouraging us to trust God and always acknowledge Him in everything that we do. Regardless to the amount of knowledge one may have is pale to the knowledge of God. Man's knowledge is prone to error whereas God's knowledge is without error. With that being said, it is far better to know, believe and then do what God commands. We can reflect on Adam's failure to obey God's commands in the Garden of Eden. Thank God for Jesus who took away sin, the Holy Spirit who resides within every believer who aids believers in obeying God's commandments. Obedience is better than sacrifice, obey and live.

HEAVENLY BREAD VOLUME 4 Issue 3 2012 Tue Mar 20

Live By Faith Hebrews 11:4-10 By faith he sojourned in the land of promise, as in a strange country, dwelling in tabernacles with Isaac and Jacob, the heirs with him of the same promise: For he looked for a city which hath foundations, whose builder and maker is God.

aith is defined as the substance of things hoped for and the evidence of things not seen (v. 1), but to live by that faith is a testament to what one hope for. Today's focus discussion is on some of those Old Testament patriarchs who lived by faith and acted as if what they hoped for already existed. Let's begin our examples of living by faith with Abraham when he was called to go into another country, he simply began his journey with Isaac and Jacob for Abraham knew within his heart that God would direct him to the place of his dwelling, but Abraham kept his eyes on the heavenly city (vv 8-10). Who can forget Noah who put his reputation on the line when God told him it was going to rain and instructed him to build an ark. Noah didn't question God simply began the task God gave him. What about Enoch and Abel and their faith? Abel's faith was so great until he gave the first of his harvest trusting God to make up the difference, then Enoch had such an intimate relationship with God until he didn't see death; God simply took him. It is by faith we have salvation and by faith we live the Christian life.

HEAVENLY BREAD VOLUME 4 Issue 3 2012 Wed Mar 21

Boldly Witness Christ Acts 1:8; Philippians 1:14 But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you; and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.

ome adjectives can be used to describe boldness is confidence, courageous and even fearless. With that being said, believers can boldly witness Christ by taking the gospel message of Christ to the entire world without fear. The fear factor was removed by Christ Himself by sending the Holy Spirit to live in each believer; therefore, the Holy Spirit is our guide and protector. What's to fear, just witness Christ! Furthermore, Christians have been endued with the Holy Spirit and the power to witness Christ as never before. Christians being baptized in the Holy Spirit is the starting point for Christians being enabled to boldly witness Christ. What is being said, Christians operate in the power of the Holy Spirit who is God. If the question were raised, Where do we begin our witness? Our Jerusalem can be our homes, jobs, schools, communities and even the opportunity may be in our churches. It is worth saying that everyone in the church is not saved. The main message here is do not be afraid to witness Christ wherever the opportunity presents itself. Effective, powerful witness is the result of the Holy Spirit's power and our intimate relationship with God. Witness! Witness! Witness Christ.

HEAVENLY BREAD VOLUME 4 Issue 3 2012 Thu Mar 22

Ambassadors For Christ 2 Corinthians 5:20 Now that we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us; we pray you in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled to God.

hat is an ambassador? An ambassador is a spokesperson for a country or person. The United States has ambassadors to various countries and these persons convey the message of the President to the leader of that country. For the purpose of our discussion we will focus on Christians being ambassadors for Christ. What this means is that all believers are representing Christ wherever we go and we are conveying the gospel of message of Christ to the lost souls of this world. The Apostle Paul is a perfect example of being an ambassador for Christ, because he preached and witness Christ throughout Asia Minor. Paul represented Christ both in word and lifestyle, but Paul weren't always Christ's ambassador this changed at his conversion. Believers become representatives of Christ's because of His atoning work at Calvary as all believers have been reconciled back to God. Believers are new creatures in Christ and can now speak "what thus saith the Lord." Being an ambassador for Christ, all believers have the characteristics of Christ and those characteristics are manifested in the believer's daily walk. Being an ambassador for Christ is a high honor; therefore, take a cue from Paul and other Christian warriors and serve Him with all diligence. Ambassadors carry the message of Christ.

HEAVENLY BREAD VOLUME 4 Issue 3 2012 Fri Mar 23

Be A Fruit Bearer Galatians 5:22-23 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance, against such there is no law.

aul in his writing to the Christians at Galatia outlines the comparison between works of the flesh to those of the Spirit and the results of each. Paul makes it very clear that the works of the flesh is in stark contrast to the work of the Holy Spirit. Works of the flesh breads all manner of evil and hatred while works of the Spirit bears all manner of good as they represent God's character. Paul makes a profound declaration of the fruit of the Spirit that there is no law against them and cannot be legislated. These character traits are of God who cannot be legislated or regulated because He is God. With that being said, believers being of God and bearing His spiritual fruit has the God given freedom to bear fruit according to His will and believers are to live so that the world will see God's glory shinning in our lives. There is a true saying that "a tree is known by the fruit it bears", then all mankind is known by the fruit they bear. If you are a child of God then you will bear fruit of the Spirit and if one is a child of Satan, the fruit of wickedness is what the world will see. Believers bear good fruit.

HEAVENLY BREAD VOLUME 4 Issue 3 2012 Sat Mar 24

Grow In The Knowledge Of God 2 Peter 3:18 But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To Him be glory both now and forever.

bit of background to today's lesson study we see Peter writing his second epistle to the believers in Asia Minor and it appears that they were wrestling with many false prophets and teachers who were determined to undermine the church of its truth. In verses 17-18 we find Peter encouraging the churches in Asia Minor to stay on guard from these false prophets and teachers so they wouldn't be led astray by the false doctrines of their teachings. What Peter encouraged the churches to do were grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Peter's encouragements apply to us today as there remain many false teachers and proclaimers of the word; know the truth-God's Word. If the question were raised, How do we know when what is being taught is not the truth of God's Word? The best and only way to know is to study God's Word for yourself and ask God for divine understanding of His Word. II Timothy 2:15 encourages us to study to show ourselves approved unto God so that we might rightly divide the truth of His Word. The more we study God's Word with a sincere heart and desire to understand His truths our knowledge of Him increases. God's grace and His truth is priceless; therefore, grow in His knowledge.

HEAVENLY BREAD VOLUME 4 Issue 3 2012 Sun Mar 25

Walk In The Light Of Christ 1 John 1:7 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. f we were to sub-title today's topical discussion it could very well be titled A Test of Righteousness, because the preceding verses talks about having fellowship with Christ and continuing to walk in darkness (v. 6) and verse 5 talks about Christ being the true light as there is no darkness in Him and all who are in fellowship with Christ have His light shining through them. We know that Jesus Christ is the light of the world as He was sent from God as He is God and He shines the light of life for all men to see. Darkness in this context represents the sins of the world just as fellowship represent being in union with Christ through our faith in Him. Therefore, to walk in the light of Christ means that believers have heard the truth of God's Word as revealed in scripture and has made a conscious decision to walk in that light through faith in Jesus Christ. It is Jesus' blood that cleanses us from all sin and is it the ongoing sanctification process that keeps us in a right standing with God as sin is always present. This process allows all believers to keep his or her intimate fellowship with God. Verse 9 is a strategy for the sins that we commit, which is to confess the sin and ask for forgiveness because God is faithful to forgive sin. This is so that believers can maintain fellowship with God, but if a person says that they do not sin is deceiving themself and making God out of a lie; we know God is not a liar (vv 8, 10). The flesh or the nature of man is sinful as there is a constant struggle between the spirit man and the flesh. In closing this discussion, allow me to make a few points on walking in the light of Christ as we have been cleansed by His blood, and set aside (sanctified) for worship and fellowship with God. Being that believers have been sanctified to walk in Christ's light we must (a) maintain an intimate fellowship with Him (John 5:14), (b) fellowship

HEAVENLY BREAD VOLUME 4 Issue 3 2012 with other believers (Ephesians 4:15-16), (c) devote oneself to prayer (Matthew 6:5-13), (d) commit to obeying God's Word (John 17:17), (e) become sensitive to His presence and provisional care for us (Matthew 625-34), (f) become a lover of righteousness and hater of wickedness (Hebrews 1:9), (g) believers died to sin with Christ (Romans 6) and rose with Him to a life of righteousness, (h) believers submit to God's discipline as God will discipline His children (Hebrews 12;5-11) and lastly (i) believers are to continue obeying the Holy Spirit and be filled with Him (Romans 8:14; Ephesians 5:18). Adhering to the above scriptural recommended steps to walk in the light of Christ we develop a greater love for God while thanking Him for His grace and mercy. The light of Christ is the only true light.

HEAVENLY BREAD VOLUME 4 Issue 3 2012 Mon Mar 26

Love As God Loved 1 John 2:7-11 He that loveth his brother abideth in the light, and there is none occasion of stumbling in him. But he that hateth his brother is in darkness, and walketh in darkness, and knoweth not whither he goeth, because that darkness hath blinded his eyes.

s we continue our discussion on true test of ones righteousness by walking in the light of Christ brotherly love is a true test of that walk. All believers are commanded to love; this doesn't mean being selective in who we are going to love. A true test of loving as God loved is to love everybody even those who doesn't love us. There is growth in Christ when a believer can love our enemy. Remember God loved us when we didn't love Him. Christ loved to the point of death so that all who believe in Him would be saved. God continues to love us as His Spirit-the Holy Spirit resides in every believer so that believers will remain in fellowship with Him. Love is an attribute of God as He is love; therefore, being in the family of God we are to love as He loved. With that being said, our scripture text makes it plain regarding the love test. Are you passing the test? A word to the wise, if you say you love everybody know that you will be tested, because persons will come into your life that make it almost impossible to love and you will have to call on God for His help you to love this person. Love and be love.

HEAVENLY BREAD VOLUME 4 Issue 3 2012 Tue Mar 27

Live Separated From The World 1 John 2:15-17 Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof; but he doeth the will of God abideth forever.

ohn makes it very plain as to why believers are to be in the world, but not of the world; this is simply because what the world has to offer is contrary to God the Father. Lust of the flesh, eye and the pride of life is short lived whereas the thing of God and His Word will last forever. Then too, believers weren't sanctified to continue living according to the world and its standards. The purpose for being called out of the world is to be a beckoning light for those remaining in darkness. Believers are commissioned to witness Christ the world over. Believers' witnessing power is ineffective if the believer is still lusting after the flesh and other worldly pleasures. Thank God for His indwelling Holy Spirit who will help believers live separate lives one that is pleasing to God. Living separate life that is holy unto God may be the only Bible others are reading; therefore, living a godly life is paramount in the believer's walk with Christ. Living a separate life is being in the world but not of this world.

HEAVENLY BREAD VOLUME 4 Issue 3 2012 Wed Mar 28

Have A Forgiving Spirit Colossians 3:13 Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any; even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye.

oday's lesson discussion looks at being forgiving as all believers are to emulate Christ who forgave all and went to the cross bearing the sins of all humanity. Oftentimes many will want forgiveness for a wrong done by others, but when it comes their time to forgive they are unwilling to forgive, but this is not the Christian way. Christians are encouraged to forgive just as Christ forgave. In Matthew 18:22-35 Jesus addresses at length the issue of forgiveness and when asked how often should we forgive our brother, Jesus answered and said "until seventy times seven" which in essence means as many times as it take. When God forgives us of our sins He doesn't seek revenge or hold grudges; neither should we. Forgiveness restores a broken fellowship as well as removes the burden of revenge and or the brokenness that exists between the parties. When Christians disobey God's commands there is a broken fellowship, when forgiveness is asked for and granted then the fellowship is restored. Being forgiven by God of our sins, then how difficult is it for us to forgive our fellowman? Which is better to forgive and be forgiven or hold grudges and omit being forgiven? Unforgiveness is like a weight of sin that can hinder both spiritual growth and blessings. Forgive and be forgiven.

HEAVENLY BREAD VOLUME 4 Issue 3 2012 Thu Mar 29

Give Of Thyself Matthew 10:7-8 â&#x20AC;ŚGo preach; saying, The kingdom of heaven is at hand. Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out devils; freely ye have received, freely give.

he background of our lesson study is the mission of Jesus' twelve disciples and Jesus gave them power to drive evil spirit and heal the sick. They were instructed where to carry the message and to whom and what they were to do when they arrived. Christ's purpose was for the kingdom of heaven and its powers are present so that salvation, peace and healing would come to His people. With that being said, Christ sent forth His disciples to spread His message and that message is to continue to all lost souls today. The attitude of Christ's disciples is that they left all and followed Jesus taking no thought of tomorrow, but freely giving of themselves just as Christ freely gave His life the for the sins of the world. All believers are to have the same like attitude by freely giving of thyself in kingdom building. Christians are asked to give reasonable service to God, which isn't much when compared to what was given so that all who believe will have salvation. These questions come to mind, How much are you willing to give to the Lord and how often are willing to witness Christ? Do we say like the words of this song, Lord I give my self to You to be used by You? God loves a cheerful giver.

HEAVENLY BREAD VOLUME 4 Issue 3 2012 Fri Mar 30

Have The Mind Of Christ Philippians 2:5 Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus.

hat is Paul saying by encouraging believers to have the mind of Christ? Paul is reemphasizing the humbleness of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ being that He is God and the glory that He had, but chose to subject Himself to human limitations for the sake of humanity. Christ knew who was and had the right view of God the Father, others and self, but still He chose to have a singleness of mind with His Father to save mankind. He was obedient to His Father and did His Father's will. While being persecuted by man whom He created did not say that I am God you cannot persecute me. He was humble unto the end. Christians are to have the mind of Christ through humility in all that believers do. Personal reputation is of no value in the work of kingdom building. Just as Christ's primary mission was to save the lost, this too must be the mission of all believers as believers are to witness to lost souls so they too can become sons and daughters of God. Each soul that is saved adds to God's kingdom. Christians have the mind of Christ by getting to know Him and being in union with Christ. Believers are servants of the Most High God; therefore, believers must have the mind of Christ.

HEAVENLY BREAD VOLUME 4 Issue 3 2012 Sat Mar 31

Live To Please God 1 Thessalonians 4:1-9 For this is the will of God, even your sanctification, that ye should abstain from fornication; That every one of you should know how to possess his vessel in sanctification and honour; For God hath not called us into uncleanness, but unto holiness.

eing that all believers have been called and sanctified by God to a life of holy living, then believers must refrain from continued unholy living, thus defiling the honored vessel as believers are the residing place of the Holy Spirit. God the Holy Spirit will not live in an unclean vessel-our bodies. With that being said, given the fact that society immorality is common place as is all manner of other evils what must believers do? Believers are called to a life of righteousness through separate living while remaining in this world. Believers would not want Christ our Lord and Savior's atoning work of sanctification to be in vain by continuing to live in sin. Believers can live to please God by continuously dying to sin daily and being renewed by the Holy Spirit who gives believers the strength to refute sin and live holy. Believers can live to please God by being transformed individuals who has committed him or herself to God and His ways. Living to please is easy with the help of the Holy Spirit.

HEAVENLY BREAD VOLUME 4 Issue 3 2012

Thank you for allowing me to share Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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 DVDâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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 3 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 3 2012