May 2020

05/05/2020

Beloved brothers and sisters in Christ. May your day be filled with joy and laughter. My prayer is that the Lord will bless you abundantly and that His Spirit will be your councilor, His Word a lamp unto your feet and a light unto your path. May your faith and faithfulness be reckoned as righteousness and above all may His grace be sufficient to carry you through your trials and tribulations.

Join me tomorrow for a week on joy. Let’s explore the scriptures to see what biblical joy really entails.

Blessings in Jesus
JO

13/05/2020

Isaiah 1 v 18
"Come now and let us reason together"

The Lord is not a dictator with puppets for children. He has given us a free will to choose. Unfortunately we sometimes choose to abuse our free will and still God does not simply wipe us of the face of the earth, does He?

In the preceding verses (16 & 17), He instructs us to;

• cease doing evil and
• learn to do good
• seek justice
• rebuke the ruthless
• defend the orphan and
• plead for the widow

Approach the Lord today with a broken heart and contrite spirit and though “your sins are as scarlet and red like crimsons, they will become white as snow, like wool…” [paraphrase]

Seek the Lord while He can still be found. “Consent and obey” and your fruits will multiply. Amen

“Scripture quotations taken from the NASB. Copyright by The Lockman Foundation”

14/05/2020

Hosea 4 v 1 - 6
"My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge."

This passage paints a perfect picture of the current worldly state. “There is swearing, deception, murder, stealing and adultery, violence and bloodshed.” Yet there is no faithfulness, kindness, compassion, patience, long suffering, self-control and love, because there is no (longer any) knowledge of God.

Instead of looking to God for our salvation, we have turned to our idols, sports, leisure, entertainment and its artists, etc. Those who are called to lead people to the Lord have neglected their calling and are leading the flock astray.

It is our responsibility to stand up as followers of Jesus and not be ashamed of the Gospel and become a shining light to this dark world. It is written that we will be known by our fruits. Let’s show the world the result of a spiritual life, embedded in Christ so they can witness our faith through our works and who knows? They might too come to the knowledge of the saving grace of God…

“Scripture quotations taken from the NASB. Copyright by The Lockman Foundation”

15/05/2020

Ecclesiastes 9 v 1 - 9
"For whoever is joined with all the living, there is hope"

One thing is certain… the same fate awaits us all, that is, if Christ has not yet returned for His church, we shall all taste death in this life time.

Needless to say – life is unpredictable and we should live each day as if it is our last. What purpose does life serve is we simply “toil” to accumulate wealth and not enjoy the pleasures God has granted us.

Whether believers or non-believers, religious or “righteous”, no one is exempt from this fate. The difference lies in the fact that if you believe Jesus to be God incarnate – in the form of His Son – that He died for our sins and above all, rose from the dead, there is hope in living (and dying).

Enjoy this life God has given you with all its blessings. Rejoice for there is life after death. Something the Old Testament believers only vaguely understood. May God “approve your works”, while you work out your salvation in fear and trembling.

“Scripture quotations taken from the NASB. Copyright by The Lockman Foundation”

16/05/2020

1 Chronicles 17 v 1 - 15
"He shall build for me a house and I will establish his throne forever"

David had his heart set on building the temple, but obeyed the Lord’s instruction, not to go ahead. This responsibility would befall his son, Solomon. Have you ever been in a position where you wanted to do something for the Lord, and He instructed otherwise?

Even if it felt so right, obeying the Lord is all that matters, and that is what David did. The Lord chose David and took him from herding sheep to be a leader over His people and God’s promise that the Messiah would come from the line of David was eventually fulfilled as prophesied.

Just as Solomon reigned over his kingdom with peace, so the Lord Jesus will also establish His kingdom of peace, when the time comes for Him to return. Let us look forward to this time of unprecedented peace, knowing we will experience this, should we complete the race in this life.

Therefore, fix your eyes on the prize. An eternity with your Creator. Run this race with confidence, you will not be disappointed.

“Scripture quotations taken from the NASB. Copyright by The Lockman Foundation”

17/05/2020

Daniel 3 v 8 - 18
"But even if He does not, let it be known..."

Exodus 20 v 3
“You shall have no other gods before me.”

One thing the modern world can learn from the Jewish people is that there is only one God and this has never changed. Man has created an image of his own god, whether in the form of a statue or simply in his mind. A god that would be accommodating, allowing you to use your free will according to your desires.

Shadrach, Meschach and Abed-nego chose to be faithful to God, regardless of the outcome. They knew the choice they had made to follow God would have consequences and it would only be a matter of time before their faith would be tested to the ultimate. Either they fall down and worship or they pay with their lives for their disobedience to the king.

In this case God protected them from harms way as a testimony to the king and as a result Nebuchadnezzar exalted God and warned everyone not to speak anything offensive of the true God and the consequences that would follow if they did. Ironic, isn’t it?

There is no guarantee God will “save” you out of your predicament, as was the case with majority of the disciples, who paid with their lives, while remaining faithful to the Lord. Following God has a price. Do your calculations thoroughly and decide if you would be willing to sacrifice your life for the sake of the Gospel…

“Scripture quotations taken from the NASB. Copyright by The Lockman Foundation”

18/05/2020

Obadiah v 1 - 21
"For the day of the Lord draws near on all the nations..."

I believe this is two fold… Not only will God judge the nations for the way they have dealt with Israel (and one another), but also how people have treated each other.

Matt 25 v 31 – 46
“If you have done all of this to the very least of you, you have done it to me also.” [paraphrase]. Jesus was referring to good deeds done to others, but also refraining from doing these to others, meant you have also not done it to Him.

God expects us, as believers, to reach out a helping hand when necessary and assist those in need, within your means, off course. We will be judged according to our works. (2 Corinthians 5 v 10)
Let’s ensure that we are in right standing with God, so that when the “great and terrible day of the Lord” comes, we are not weighed and found wanting.

May the Lord send someone on your way today. Recognize the need and give within your means, whether it is a food parcel, a word of encouragement or a prayer, we all have something to give.

“Scripture quotations taken from the NASB. Copyright by The Lockman Foundation”

20/05/2020

Daniel 12 v 4
"Many will go back and forth, and knowledge will increase"

This passage might be interpreted in more than one way. The fact remains that as we draw near to the end times that the Bible speaks about, during these last days of mankind’s history, it is clear that the world is ready for these events prophesied about in the book of Daniel (and Revelation).

Contrary to Daniel, being told to “seal up the words“, John was told not to (Revelation 22 v 10). As Daniel’s message was meant for the future generations, John’s message was meant for a present generation. These words are still relevant today, seeing that certain events are yet to take place before Jesus returns.

Isn’t it mind boggling how knowledge has increased merely over the past couple of centuries and how it continues to increase with all the research being done in so many areas with the help of technology that is ever expanding. This could be scientific knowledge or even knowledge about end time prophesies.

Clearly people are going “back and forth“, whether this is referring to traveling or jumping between ideas about life, religion and the existence of God, one would have to investigate.

Are you ready for Christ’s eminent return? Seek Him, while He can still be found, for a time will come when it might be too late.

“Scripture quotations taken from the NASB. Copyright by The Lockman Foundation”

21/05/2020

Jonah 1 v 1 - 3
"But Jonah rose up to flee to Tarshish from the presence of the Lord..."

Like Jonah, we too “flee” from our responsibilities every now and then. Has the Lord called you for a specific purpose, yet you choose to shy away from your calling?

Do you make excuses like Moses did? Do you tell the Lord you are not good enough, that you are a terrible speaker and not qualified? Jonah made a conscious decision to run away from God and look where he ended up…

God takes disobedience seriously. This was in fact, the first sin committed against him, by man, when Adam and Eve disobeyed His instruction. May we learn from the past mistakes these men (and woman) of God made, in order not to miss out on the opportunities to further His heavenly kingdom.

Take up your cross and follow Him, be prepared, be available and be willing to go where you have not expected to journey. God will lead you into all truth through His Spirit, our mediator.

My prayer today is that you will open up your mind and heart to the Lords instruction. May He soften your heart so that you will become receptive to His still small voice. You’ll be surprised what the Lord can achieve in your life if you just give Him a chance.

“Scripture quotations taken from the NASB. Copyright by The Lockman Foundation”

22/05/2020

Psalm 42 v 1 - 3
"Where is your God?"

Are you experiencing difficulties and persecution? Difficulties could include financial stress, pressure at work or family relationships that are tense, especially during these times. Let’s not forget our own sins that hang over our heads like a sword.

Are you mocked about your faith or tested by those you associate yourself with, asking you, “where is your God“? Do you feel rejected and that God has forsaken you, yet you long for fellowship with Him?

Do not despair. Your God is near. He will not leave you nor forsake you. Take a step in faith. Trust in His faithfulness and deliverance. Put your hope in Him. He will not disappoint. The Lord, your God, is your rock on who you stand in the midst of your trials and tribulations.

My prayer today is that the Spirit will intercede for you, should your soul thirst for God, but you do not know how to approach Him. You might feel ashamed or have given up hope because what they say seem to be true. Do not give up, for tomorrow the sun will rise again, and today God’s loving kindness and multiplied grace will see you through. AMEN

“Scripture quotations taken from the NASB. Copyright by The Lockman Foundation”

23/05/2020

Job 5 v 8 - 27
"And to which of the holy ones will you turn?" (vers 1)

Verse 8, 9
“But as for me, I would seek God, and I would place my cause before God, Who does great and unsearchable things, wonders without number.”

Eliphaz made a basic mistake of assuming Job had done something wrong and is suffering as a result. Then he offered advice without actually understanding Job’s situation. Talking about the “great and unsearchable things” God does, as if Job is not aware of these (amidst his affliction).

Verse 17, 18
“Behold, how happy is the man whom God reproves. So do not despise the discipline of the Almighty. For He inflicts pain and gives relief; He wounds and His hands also heal.”

The above comment is not made in error, yet the context is misplaced as Eliphaz tries to explain to Job that God disciplines those who have stepped out of line… Again he shows that if you do not have all the facts about someone’s circumstances, one should guard against passing judgment.

Let’s make an effort to “tune in” to the people God has placed in our lives, in order to understand their hurt, their anger and as a result their behaviour. We will soon realize a person behind the pain; who is simply looking for love, acceptance and ultimately seeking the Lord as God has placed that knowledge of Him in our hearts.

Take the time today, to better understand and you might just win over a heart for Christ.

“Scripture quotations taken from the NASB. Copyright by The Lockman Foundation”

24/05/2020

Do you feel lost? Remember, “all who wander, are not lost.” Fix your eyes on the Lord, He will deliver you. Place your hope in Him and you will not be disappointed. Please join us for “5 days on hope” and discover the Lord’s promises when you put your trust and hope in Him.

25/05/2020

2 Kings 19 v 14 - 19
"Incline your ear, O Lord, and hear..."

Hezekiah’s prayer is a good example of how we should approach the Lord. Firstly;

1. he acknowledges God’s Sovereignty.
2. then requests that the Lord “inclines His ear”, as if the Lord does not know his every thought…
3. finally He prays for deliverance.

In the above we can see the absolute respect Hezekiah has for the Lord, especially when he doesn’t simply expect the lord to listen to his petition.

What he asks for is asked in the Name of the ONE and ONLY (living) God. He knows that only God can deliver them from the hands of the evil king, who blasphemed against the Lord.

May we too, show the respect God deserves when approaching His throne of grace. Humble yourself before the Holy God of Israel, knowing there is no other God besides Him.

“Scripture quotations taken from the NASB. Copyright by The Lockman Foundation”

30/05/2020

Genesis 45 v 3 - 5
Joseph's kindness, compassion and forgiveness

Joseph had every reason to be angry with his brothers and was in a position to avenge what they had done to him, but instead of vindicating himself, he embraced them.

They had no idea how their actions would pan out, after throwing him into a pit and selling him to the Ishmaelites. God, knowing their hearts and knowing the outcome had a greater plan with Joseph, who would end up serving under the Pharaoh in Egypt as a ruler over the land.

How many times do we make decisions, not knowing the end result, yet consciously we go ahead, knowing it’s the wrong thing to do? Even though we might have disobeyed God, by ignoring His conviction, He is still able to make everything work for the good of those who love Him.

Have you been a victim of a selfish act? Do not be dismayed. The Lord knows your thoughts and the intentions of your heart and even though the heart is “deceitful and desperately wicked”, the Lord has compassion for those who seek Him with their whole heart.

Therefore, the vengeance is the Lord’s. We are not called to pay back evil with evil, but instead, we are called to forgive, like Joseph did – even seventy times seven! Are there people you need to forgive? Today is the day to allow the Spirit to soften your heart and heal you from the pain that might have been caused by someone else’s wrongful motives.

If you require prayer, feel free to submit your request and allow other believers to pray for you as we are called to carry each others’ burdens. May the Lord give you comfort during your trials and tribulations.

“Scripture quotations taken from the NASB, Life Application Study Bible, unless stated otherwise. Copyright by The Lockman Foundation”

31/05/2020

Joel 2 v 28 - 32
"whoever calls on the Name of the Lord...

The Lord made a (new) covenant with His people (Israel) according to Jeremiah 31 v 31 and will keep His promise. A covenant that will eventually see a remnant of the Jews saved when Jesus returns, while the gentiles (all the other nations), who accept Christ, are merely “grafted in” to the branches of which Jesus is the vine (John 15) and the root of salvation (Rom 11).

There is still much to take place and great wonders await us, before “the great and awesome [yet terrible] day of the Lord comes…” and even though many long for His return, there will be those who ignore the signs of the age we are living in. Difficult times lie ahead and “the days are coming,” declares the Sovereign LORD, “when I will send a famine through the land– not a famine of food or a thirst for water, but a famine of hearing the words of the LORD” (Amos 11 v 8) [NIV].

My prayer for you is that if you are seeking an “unknown god”, longing for deliverance, call upon the Name of the Lord today, and He will answer your call. Approach Him just as you are, for He came, not for the righteous, but for the sick, the broken… God made a promise to the Jews and He also made a promise to us. Should we die to self, and accept His grace, we will be saved.

Do not make the mistake to think that you have time and that you can simply call on Him on your terms, when you decide you are ready to make the commitment. What if you do not get the opportunity? Seek Him today, while He can still be found, for a time of great trouble will come where you will long for Him, but it will be too late.

May the Lord’s Spirit convict you today and show you the need for repentance and salvation. Amen

“Scripture quotations taken from the NASB, Life Application Study Bible, unless stated otherwise. Copyright by The Lockman Foundation”