THINKING ABOUT THE POLITICAL CLIMATE…

BARBARA E. PERKINS

THINKING ABOUT THE POLITICAL CLIMATE…

Sometimes our countries’ torrents of political news (no matter what country you happen to live in) can be daunting, producing so much trepidation that it could cause one to doubt God’s faithfulness.  But, the word of God in Mark 4:35-41 (NKJV) states, “35 On the same day, when evening had come, He (Jesus) said to them, “LET US CROSS OVER TO THE OTHER SIDE.” 36 Now when they had left the multitude, they took Him along in the boat as He was. And other little boats were also with Him. 37 And a great windstorm arose, and the waves beat into the boat, so that it was already filling. 38 But He was in the stern, asleep on a pillow. And they awoke Him and said to Him, “Teacher, do You not care that we are perishing?”39 Then He arose and rebuked the wind, and said to the sea, “Peace, be still!” And the wind ceased and there was a great calm. 40 But He said to them, “Why are you so fearful? How is it that you have no faith?” 41 And they feared exceedingly, and said to one another, “Who can this be, that even the wind and the sea obey Him!”  But God, … hallelujah! Glory to Your name and Your Word, Heavenly Father.  But Jesus, … hallelujah! God’s Word was made flesh (John 1:1-14).  Father God, I love reading in Your word how You decree in Your word the plan and it changes circumstances (2Corinthians 4:18).  Jesus, Your Son, spoke Your powerful word and the circumstances dissipated.  How perfectly AWESOME!  The political scene can be discouraging, but God is still in control (Isaiah 55:11).  Jesus said, “We are crossing over to the other side.”  … And we are—also praying without ceasing (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18)!  Father God, thank You for revealing to us in Your word how to be fearless, faithful overcomers, trusting You always.

                                                                                           

If you would like to be saved and develop a relationship with God as your Heavenly Father, just invite His Son, Jesus Christ, into your heart.  Please pray this prayer:  Dear God, I believe in my heart that Jesus Christ is Your Son.  I believe that He died on the cross, shed His blood, and rose from the grave for my salvation.  I confess Jesus right now as my Savior and Lord.  God fill me with your Holy Spirit so that I can live a life that pleases You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen!  If you prayed this prayer and meant it, you are saved.  Welcome into God’s Family!

A PASSION FOR SOULS

BARBARA E. PERKINS

A PASSION FOR SOULS

The word of God states in Luke 19:10 (NKJV), “For the Son of Man has come to seek and to save that which was lost.”  Jesus Christ came to Earth for the purpose of saving mankind.  He accomplished that awesome sacrifice because that was also His Father God’s purpose (John 3:16).  Jesus always does those things that please His Father God (John 8:29).  He is so concerned about the salvation of the masses, as well as for ONE SINGLE PERSON and it is obvious in God’s word.  Luke 15:4-7 says, 4 “What man of you, having a hundred sheep, if he loses one of them, does not leave the ninety-nine in the wilderness, and go after the one which is lost until he finds it? 5 And when he has found it, he lays it on his shoulders, rejoicing. 6 And when he comes home, he calls together his friends and neighbors, saying to them, ‘Rejoice with me, for I have found my sheep which was lost!’ 7 I SAY TO YOU THAT LIKEWISE THERE WILL BE MORE JOY IN HEAVEN OVER ONE SINNER WHO REPENTS THAN OVER NINETY-NINE JUST PERSONS WHO NEED NO REPENTANCE.”  Also, on this subject, God’s word declares in 2 Peter 3:9, “The Lord is not slack concerning His promise, as some count slackness, but is longsuffering toward us, NOT WILLING THAT ANY SHOULD PERISH BUT THAT ALL SHOULD COME TO REPENTANCE.”  Father God, I thank You for loving us so much and seeing us as so valuable and precious to You.  I am eternally grateful that You would send Your only Son, Jesus, to be the ultimate sacrifice for our salvation; thereby, allowing us to be saved and bringing us back into right relationship with Yourself, Holy Father.  Such an awesome love for mankind!  Such a tremendous desire to see us saved!  Heavenly Father help us, Your people, to always have Your passion for lost souls, knowing that tomorrow is not promised to any of us.

If you would like to be saved and develop a relationship with God as your Heavenly Father invite His Son, Jesus Christ, into your heart.  You can be saved by praying this prayer:  Dear God, I believe in my heart that Jesus Christ is Your Son.  I believe that He died on the cross, shed His blood, and rose from the grave for my salvation.  I confess Jesus right now as my Savior and Lord.  God fill me with your Holy Spirit so that I can live a life that pleases You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen!  If you prayed this prayer and meant it, you are saved.  Welcome into God’s Family!

BECAUSE OF HIS LOVE…

CHARLES H. PERKINS

BECAUSE OF HIS LOVE…

Romans 5:8  But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.

Lord, I thank you that your love for me is greater than my sin.

Would you like to experience God’s presence and forgiveness by inviting God’s Son, Jesus Christ, into your heart? Then pray this prayer: Dear God, I believe that Jesus Christ is Your Son. I confess that I am a sinner in need of a Savior. I believe that Jesus died on the cross, shed His blood, and rose from the grave for my salvation. I confess Him right now as my Savior and Lord. God fill me with your Holy Spirit so that I can live a life that pleases You. In Jesus’ Name! Amen! If you prayed this prayer you are saved. Welcome to God’s Family!

A CHURCH WITHOUT SPOT OR WRINKLE

BARBARA E. PERKINS

A CHURCH WITHOUT SPOT OR WRINKLE  

The word of God in Ephesians 5:27 (NKJV) declares, “…That He (Jesus Christ) might present her to Himself a glorious church, not having spot or wrinkle or any such thing, but that she should be holy and without blemish.”  Lord Jesus, thank You for showing us (the Church) what our Father God expects of us.  Father God, I don’t believe that You would expect of us something that we cannot accomplish in our lives with the power of the Holy Spirit.  Your word states emphatically that You want the spots, wrinkles and blemishes (all sin) out of our lives (as spoken by Your Son, Jesus Christ).  The way to get the sin out of our lives is clearly expressed in Ephesians 5:26: “That He (Jesus Christ) might sanctify (set apart for God/holy) and cleanse her (the Church) with the washing of water by the word…”  Lord Jesus, thank You for revealing to us, the Church how to get cleansed of our sin for God.  1 John 1:8-10 further reinforces how to cleanse the spots and wrinkles from our lives: 8 “If we say that WE HAVE NO SIN, WE DECEIVE OURSELVES, and the truth is not in us. 9 IF WE CONFESS OUR SINS, HE (GOD) IS FAITHFUL AND JUST TO FORGIVE US OUR SINS AND TO CLEANSE US FROM ALL UNRIGHTEOUSNESS. 10 If we say WE HAVE NOT SINNED, WE MAKE HIM A LIAR and His word is not in us.”  Father God, I am so grateful for Your love, mercy and grace for us.  Thank You for Your powerful word that cleanses the spots, wrinkles and blemishes (all sin) from our lives and prepares the Church for Jesus’ imminent return.  I want to be ready!  How awesome are You, Father God and Jesus Christ, Who is Lord!

  Would you like to know and develop a relationship with God as your Heavenly Father by inviting His Son, Jesus Christ into your heart?  If you would, please pray this prayer:  Dear God, I believe in my heart that Jesus Christ is Your Son.  I believe that He died on the cross, shed His blood, and rose from the grave for my salvation.  I confess Jesus right now as my Savior and Lord.  God fill me with your Holy Spirit so that I can live a life that pleases You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen!  If you prayed this prayer and meant it, you are saved.  Welcome into God’s Family!

WHAT MAKES ONE RIGHTEOUS AND WISE?

BARBARA E. PERKINS

WHAT MAKES ONE RIGHTEOUS AND WISE?

The word of God in Proverbs 11:30 (NKJV) declares, “The FRUIT OF THE RIGHTEOUS is a TREE OF LIFE, and HE WHO WINS SOULS IS WISE.”  Lord Jesus, thank You for allowing us to walk in Your righteousness as a result of our Salvation (2 Corinthians 5:21).  Father God, thank You for the Fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:16, 22-25) that shapes our Christian character and produces the fruit of the righteous as a part of our sanctification after Salvation.  I am so grateful for Salvation that grants believers eternal life/the ability to live forever in Your presence, Father God and in Your Kingdom with Jesus Christ forever.  I remember Your word (Genesis 2:9, 16-17, 3:22-24) that reveals the tree in the Garden of Eden called the Tree of Life that Adam and Eve could have eaten from and lived forever, had they not sinned.  So, the fruit that the righteous possess, through Jesus Christ, is a Tree of Life that leads to eternal life.  The Amplified Bible provides insight about the second half of the Scripture in the following manner: “And he who is wise captures and wins souls [for God—he gathers them for eternity].”  I can see that the fruit of the righteous is a tree of life because the righteous is full of Your Holy Spirit and has Your heart, Father God, when we purpose to live a life that pleases You.  He (or she) is wise and deliberate about wanting to win souls for Your Kingdom while there is still time.  LORD, HELP US TO BE WISE ABOUT WINNING SOULS FOR YOUR KINGDOM.  Thank You, Lord Jesus for sacrificing Your life to win my soul, as well as the souls of others.  What a blessing to see others coming to Jesus Christ, my Savior and Lord and into Your Kingdom, Father God.  LORD GOD, thank You for revealing to us in Your word what makes one righteous and wise.  Praise Your Holy Name!

Would you like to know and develop a relationship with God as your Heavenly Father by inviting His Son, Jesus Christ into your heart?  If you would, please pray this prayer:  Dear God, I believe in my heart that Jesus Christ is Your Son.  I believe that He died on the cross, shed His blood, and rose from the grave for my salvation.  I confess Jesus right now as my Savior and Lord.  God fill me with your Holy Spirit so that I can live a life that pleases You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen!  If you prayed this prayer and meant it, you are saved.  Welcome into God’s Family!

HOW’S DO I PLEASE GOD?

BARBARA E. PERKINS

HOW’S DO I PLEASE GOD?

The word of God in Hebrews 11:6 (NKJV) declares, “But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.” God, Who is so full of mercy and grace, tells us in His powerful word just how to please Him. I have to start with the following premise: IT’S IMPOSSIBLE TO PLEASE GOD WITHOUT FAITH IN HIM!!! My FAITH MUST ACCEPT that GOD DOES EXIST and that HE REWARDS THOSE THAT DILIGENTLY SEEK HIM. That’s how FAITH works if I want to please God. The benefits are limitless when I have faith in God (Philippians 4:19). Genesis Chapters 1, 2 and Hebrews 11:1-4 declares that in the beginning God (with His Son) created the Heavens and the Earth, as well as everything therein. I believe it! Genesis Chapter 3 deals with the fall of man through the sin of Adam and Eve. I believe it! John 3:16 declares that God loves us so much that He sent His only Son, Jesus Christ, as our sacrifice to redeem us from our sin nature and to offer eternal life to all who have the faith to accept Jesus as Savior and Lord (Romans 10:9-10). I believe Jesus and the price He paid for me. As a result of Jesus’ sacrifice, I can also receive healing (1Peter 2:24). Yet, these are just few of the benefits of having faith in God and Jesus Christ. IT IS IMPOSSIBLE TO PLEASE GOD WITHOUT FAITH IN HIM! BUT, Proverbs 16:7 (NKJV) proclaims, “WHEN A MAN’S (or MANKIND’S) WAYS PLEASE THE LORD, HE MAKES EVEN HIS ENEMIES TO BE AT PEACE WITH HIM.” This is God’s divine protection and it is so amazing. I please God by believing in his word and obeying it. Glory to God for the awesome power of His word to believers.

Would you like to know and develop a relationship with GOD as your Heavenly Father by inviting His Son, Jesus Christ into your heart? If you would, please pray this prayer: Dear God, I believe in my heart that Jesus Christ is Your Son. I believe that He died on the cross, shed His blood, and rose from the grave for my salvation. I confess Jesus right now as my Savior and Lord. God fill me with your Holy Spirit so that I can live a life that pleases You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen! If you prayed this prayer and really believe it, you are saved. Welcome into God’s Family!

IN HIS IMAGE

CHARLES H. PERKINS

IN HIS IMAGE

(Romans 8:29) “For whom He foreknew, He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son…”

For most of my life as a Christian I have heard people of different races and ethnic groups claim that Jesus looked the way they look.  White people, Black people, you name it, they all claim that Jesus was of their particular race. For the record, the Bible says that He came to earth as a Jew.  Also, the Bible does not say that He would be conformed to our image, but, that we should be conformed to His. 

Most sermons that I have heard over the years generally lead people to want to do the works that He did when they think of being conformed to the image of Christ.  They want the “power” and “authority”; they want the “anointing”; they want to lay hands on people and heal the sick; they want to prophesy and so on.  They use John 14:12 to justify their desire for doing powerful works: John 14:12 “Most assuredly, I say to you, he who believes in Me, the works that I do he will do also; and GREATER WORKS than these he will do, because I go to My Father.” This, along with the racial identify stuff, seems to be what most people mean by being in the image of Christ. They can do what He did and more. They want Jesus to look like them and they want to do great works. 

We are called to look like Jesus.  That call has nothing to do with race.  It does not stop at doing “great works.” If we really want to look like the image of Christ we should love as He loved; show the compassion He showed; walk in humility as He walked; forgive as He forgave; bring peace as He did; show grace and mercy as He did; hate sin as He did; live lives of holiness and righteousness as He did; honor our Heavenly Father as He did. Looking like Jesus has nothing to do with our physical make up. It has everything to do with the content of our character.  Lord, let us all truly seek to be conformed into the image of Christ.

Would you like to experience God’s presence and forgiveness by inviting God’s Son, Jesus Christ, into your heart? Then pray this prayer: Dear God, I believe that Jesus Christ is Your Son. I confess that I am a sinner in need of a Savior. I believe that Jesus died on the cross, shed His blood, and rose from the grave for my salvation. I confess Him right now as my Savior and Lord. God fill me with your Holy Spirit so that I can live a life that pleases You. In Jesus’ Name! Amen! If you prayed this prayer you are saved. Welcome to God’s Family!

DO YOU TRULY AGREE WITH GOD’S WORD?

BARBARA E. PERKINS

DO YOU TRULY AGREE WITH GOD’S WORD?

Almighty God asks us this vital question in His powerful word, Amos 3:3 (NKJV), “Can two walk together, unless they are agreed?” Heavenly Father I agree with Your wonderful word. There is SALVATION in Your word! There is safety, soundness of mind, healing, deliverance, peace, and so much love in Your word and that’s only the beginning. There is sweet fellowship with You when I agree with You and Your word. There is everlasting life in Your miraculous word (John 3:16). Hallelujah!!! Heavenly Father God, keep me always in step (in agreement) with You and Your word which holds the key to all of Your undeniable promises. LORD, let me never forget the joy that comes from Your powerful word and which brings life forevermore. Your word offers strength to my soul when I need it the most. LORD, when I think about all the love, mercy, and grace You have shown me over the years, I am compelled to walk in agreement with Your glorious word and Your plans for my life. Thank You, LORD!

Would you like to know the LORD GOD as your Heavenly Father by inviting His Son, Jesus Christ into your heart? If you would, please pray this prayer: Dear God, I believe in my heart that Jesus Christ is Your Son. I believe that He died on the cross, shed His blood, and rose from the grave for my salvation. I confess Jesus right now as my Savior and Lord. God fill me with your Holy Spirit so that I can live a life that pleases You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen! If you prayed this prayer and believe it, you are saved. Welcome into God’s Family!

LET’S PRAISE GOD FOR HIS GOODNESS!

BARBARA E. PERKINS

LET’S PRAISE GOD FOR HIS GOODNESS!

The word of God declares in Psalm 100:3-5(NKJV), 3“Know that the Lord, He is God; It is He who has made us, and not we ourselves; We are His people and the sheep of His pasture. 4 Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, and into His courts with praise. Be thankful to Him, and bless His name. 5 For the Lord is good; His mercy is everlasting, and His truth endures to all generations.”

God is so good every single day and for that, I praise His Holy name. I know and recognize Him as my creator. I call God my Heavenly Father because I belong to Him. I have many reasons to rejoice as I enter into glorious praise to Him. As I approach God’s wonderful presence, entering His gates, I want God to hear me offering thanks for what He has done in my life and the lives if my family members. I am so grateful for His goodness! As I grow closer to God, I enter into His courts with precious praise. I serve an AWESOME God and I am grateful for how He has impacted my life over the years, showing me so much love, mercy and grace. I am humbled by Him because He is amazing beyond measure. How can I not praise and worship God for His goodness with every fiber of my being? He is my life, bless His Holy name! I love my Heavenly Father God and I love His Son, Jesus Christ, my Savior and Lord.

Would you like to truly come to know my wonderful, compassionate, loving God and His amazing Son, Jesus Christ? Simply pray this prayer: Dear God, I believe in my heart that Jesus Christ is Your Son. I believe that He died on the cross, shed His blood, and rose from the grave for my salvation. I confess Jesus right now as my Savior and Lord. God fill me with your Holy Spirit so that I can live a life that pleases You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen! If you prayed this prayer and meant it, you are saved. Welcome into God’s Family!

GRACE IN GOD’S GUIDELINES LEADS TO HIS BLESSINGS Part 3

BARBARA E. PERKINS

GRACE IN GOD’S GUIDELINES LEADS TO HIS BLESSINGS

Part 3

God’s word in Psalm 37:21-30 (NKJV) continues with His guidelines for our lives. The LORD, in His mercy and grace, gives us a vivid picture of the contrast between the blessings of the righteous and the downfall of the wicked leaving us with no excuse as to what is expected of us, as well as for our descendants. 21 “The wicked borrows and does not repay, but the righteous shows mercy and gives. 22 For those blessed by Him shall inherit the earth, but those cursed by Him shall be cut off. 23 The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord, and He delights in his way. 24 Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down; for the Lord upholds him with His hand. 25 I HAVE BEEN YOUNG, AND NOW AM OLD; YET I HAVE NOT SEEN THE RIGHTEOUS FORSAKEN, NOR HIS DESCENDANTS BEGGING BREAD. 26 HE IS EVER MERCIFUL, AND LENDS; AND HIS DESCENDANTS ARE BLESSED. 27 DEPART FROM EVIL, AND DO GOOD; AND DWELL FOREVERMORE. 28 FOR THE LORD LOVES JUSTICE, AND DOES NOT FORSAKE HIS SAINTS; THEY ARE PRESERVED FOREVER, but the descendants of the wicked shall be cut off. 29 The righteous shall inherit the land, and dwell in it forever. 30 The mouth of the righteous speaks wisdom, and his tongue talks of justice.” God is so gracious in His guidelines that lead us to His abundant blessings. How can we not love the LORD? How can we not want to live by the LORD’S GUIDELINES and be pleasing to Him? Thank You, LORD, for Your overwhelming Love and compassion towards us!

Would you like to truly come to know my wonderful, compassionate, loving God and His amazing Son? Simply pray this prayer: Dear God, I believe in my heart that Jesus Christ is Your Son. I believe that He died on the cross, shed His blood, and rose from the grave for my salvation. I confess Jesus right now as my Savior and Lord. God fill me with your Holy Spirit so that I can live a life that pleases You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen! If you prayed this prayer you are saved. Welcome into God’s Family!

MAUSOLEUMS

BARBARA E. PERKINS

MAUSOLEUMS

Mausoleums are gathering places where people can go to grieve, to be comforted and for fellowship. But, LORD GOD, where can people go for life-changing SALVATION???

The word of God declares in 2 Peter 3:9 (NKJV) “The Lord is not slack concerning His promise, as some count slackness, BUT IS LONGSUFFERING TOWARD US, NOT WILLING THAT ANY SHOULD PERISH, BUT THAT ALL SHOULD COME TO REPENTENCE.” LORD GOD, thank You for your life-changing word. Thank You for Your Son, JESUS CHRIST, WHO DIED THAT WE MIGHT BE SAVED. My LORD GOD and JESUS, my SAVIOR and LORD, I thank You for my SALVATION. To You, be all the Glory, Honor and Praise Forever!

Would you like to truly come to know my wonderful, compassionate, loving God and His amazing Son, Jesus Christ? Simply pray this prayer: Dear God, I believe in my heart that Jesus Christ is Your Son. I believe that He died on the cross, shed His blood, and rose from the grave for my salvation. I confess Jesus right now as my Savior and Lord. God fill me with your Holy Spirit so that I can live a life that pleases You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen! If you prayed this prayer you are saved. Welcome into God’s Family!

GRACE IN GOD’S GUIDELINES LEADS TO BLESSING Part 4

BARBARA E. PERKINS

GRACE IN GOD’S GUIDELINES LEADS TO BLESSING

Part 4

The grace in God’s guidelines lead to His blessings for such a time this. In Psalm 37:30-40 (NKJV), the word of God proclaims, 30 “The mouth of the righteous speaks wisdom, and his tongue talks of justice. 31 The law of his God is in his heart; none of his steps shall slide. 32 The wicked watches the righteous, and seeks to slay him. 33 The Lord will not leave him in his hand, nor condemn him when he is judged. 34 Wait on the Lord, and keep His way, and He shall EXALT you to INHERIT the land; when the wicked are cut off, you shall see it. 35 I have seen the wicked in great power, and spreading himself like a native green tree. 36 Yet he passed away, and behold, he was no more; indeed I sought him, but he could not be found. 37 Mark the blameless man, and observe the upright; or the future of that man is PEACE. 38 But the transgressors shall be destroyed together; the future of the wicked shall be cut off. 39 But the SALVATION of the righteous is from the Lord; He is their STRENGTH in the time of trouble. 40 And the Lord shall help them and deliver them; He shall deliver them from the wicked, and save them, BECAUSE THEY TRUST IN HIM.”

The previous Scriptures give a vivid contrast over and over again between the righteous and the wicked. Sometimes we experience very difficult situations in our lives that we don’t have the power to handle, BUT GOD DOES. He has proven countless times that HE is my STRENGTH, my PEACE and my SALVATION. God’s word tells me that if I will purpose to live blameless before Him, God will intervene in my circumstances, turn them totally around and exalt me with favor, if I trust Him. He will also give me an inheritance. Since God is no respecter of persons, He will do the same for you (Acts 10:34). He will not allow the unrighteous to devour us. The fact that Almighty God will defend me is glorious news. God’s promises are true forever! Hallelujah to the LORD!!!

Would you like to truly come to know my wonderful, compassionate, loving God and His amazing Son? Simply pray this prayer: Dear God, I believe in my heart that Jesus Christ is Your Son. I believe that He died on the cross, shed His blood, and rose from the grave for my salvation. I confess Jesus right now as my Savior and Lord. God fill me with your Holy Spirit so that I can live a life that pleases You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen! If you prayed this prayer you are saved. Welcome into God’s Family!

GRACE IN GOD’S GUIDELINES LEADS TO HIS BLESSINGS Part 2

BARBARA E. PERKINS

 GRACE IN GOD’S GUIDELINES LEADS TO HIS BLESSINGS

Part 2

What do you do when God’s precious creation is totally bent towards so much evil? What do you do when those who should be trusted for our wellbeing, can’t be trusted for our wellbeing??? What do you do when every way you look, you see destruction of every imaginable kind and so much carnage? We FOCUS ON GOD! We look to Him for our salvation. It is God’s grace and guidelines (His word) that blesses us with the peace (Isaiah 26:3) that we need for such a time as this. God’s guidelines (word) in Psalm 37:11-20 (NKJV) encourages us about the chaos that we see day after day in the following manner, 11 “But the meek shall inherit the earth, and shall delight themselves in the abundance of peace. 12 The wicked plots against the just, and gnashes at him with his teeth. 13 The LORD laughs at him, for He sees that his day is coming. 14 The wicked have drawn the sword and have bent their bow, to cast down the poor and needy, to slay those who are of upright conduct. 15 Their sword shall enter their own heart, and their bows shall be broken. 16 A little that a righteous man has is better than the riches of many wicked. 17 For the arms of the wicked shall be broken, but the LORD upholds the righteous. 18 The LORD knows the days of the upright, and their inheritance shall be forever. 19 They shall not be ashamed in the evil time, and in the days of famine they shall be satisfied. 20 But the wicked shall perish; and the enemies of the LORD, like the splendor of the meadows, shall vanish. Into smoke they shall vanish away.” This is THE GREAT, ALMIGHTY GOD that I know! Another wonderful example of God’s grace can be found in Exodus 14:10-30. This is such a beautiful picture of the blessings that abound when we trust the LORD and allow our lives to be governed by His guidelines. HE IS TRULY AN AWESOME GOD! Thank You, LORD for Your love, mercy and grace in how You provide for us, Your people!

Would you like to have a personal relationship with Almighty God and His Son, Jesus Christ? If so please pray this prayer: Dear God, I believe in my heart that Jesus Christ is Your Son. I believe that He died on the cross, shed His blood, and rose from the grave for my salvation. I confess Jesus right now as my Savior and Lord. God fill me with your Holy Spirit so that I can live a life that pleases You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen! If you prayed this prayer you are saved. Welcome into God’s Family!

GRACE IN GOD’S GUIDELINES LEADS TO HIS BLESSINGS Part 1

BARBARA E. PERKINS

 GRACE IN GOD’S GUIDELINES LEADS TO HIS BLESSINGS

Part 1

The grace in God’s guidelines to His blessings is for such a time this, this time period that we are living in RIGHT NOW. But, God’s word is always current, whatever time period we happen to be living in. In Psalm 37:1-10 (NKJV), written by David, not only do we see God’s grace in His guidelines for believers, but we also see a distinct contrast between the blessings of the righteous (those that trust and obey God, acting on His word) and the rewards of the unrighteous, or evildoers, or wicked, or workers of iniquity (who only do evil or what’s right in their own sight). God’s word declares, 37 “Do not fret because of evildoers, nor be envious of the workers of iniquity. 2 For they shall soon be cut down like the grass, and wither as the green herb. 3 Trust in the Lord, and do good; dwell in the land, and feed on His faithfulness. 4 Delight yourself also in the Lord, and He shall give you the desires of your heart. 5 Commit your way to the Lord, trust also in Him, and He shall bring it to pass. 6 He shall bring forth your righteousness as the light, and your justice as the noonday. 7 Rest in the Lord, and wait patiently for Him; do not fret because of him who prospers in his way, because of the man who brings wicked schemes to pass. 8 Cease from anger, and forsake wrath; do not fret—it only causes harm. 9 For evildoers shall be cut off; but those who wait on the Lord, they shall inherit the earth. 10 For yet a little while and the wicked shall be no more; indeed, you will look carefully for his place, but it shall be no more.” Praise God for His powerful word that’s seasoned with grace and that produces blessed guidelines for us to live by. God is so awesome!

Would you like for God to shower you with His blessings of joy, peace and the strength to live by His guidelines? If so please pray this prayer: Dear God, I believe in my heart that Jesus Christ is Your Son. I believe that He died on the cross, shed His blood, and rose from the grave for my salvation. I confess Jesus right now as my Savior and Lord. God fill me with your Holy Spirit so that I can live a life that pleases You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen! If you prayed this prayer you are saved. Welcome into God’s Family!

GOD WATCHES OVER HIS POWERFUL WORD

‎BARBARA E. PERKINS

GOD WATCHES OVER HIS POWERFUL WORD

God’s word in Jeremiah 1:12 (AMP) declares, “Then the Lord said to me, ‘You have seen well, for I am [actively] watching over My word to fulfill it.’” The same Scripture is declared in the following manner in the (NKJV), “Then the Lord said to me, ‘You have seen well, for I am ready to perform My word.’” In the King James Version, it states “…I will hasten (rush) to perform my word.” It is so wonderful to know that the LORD, Yahweh, The Great I AM, The God Who Always Is (present tense) is watching over His word to perform it on behalf of those that trust Him. In another Scripture God sums up His faithfulness to His word this way, “…The eyes of the LORD run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to show Himself strong on behalf of those whose heart is loyal to Him (2 Chronicles 16:9).” God’s word is so powerful that it changes circumstances and He wants us to understand just how powerful His word is so that we will treat it as He does and speak it as He does, expecting the same results that He does, all the time. God’s word declares, “So shall My word be that goes forth from My mouth; it shall not return to Me void (empty), but it shall accomplish what I please, and it shall prosper in the thing for which I sent it (Isaiah 55:11).” God is telling us, persuading us to trust His word. God declares (in 1 John 5:14-15) “Now this is the confidence that we have in Him, that if we ask anything according to His will (His word), He hears us. 15 And if we know that He hears us, whatever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we have asked of Him.” God wants us to trust the power of His word. In Numbers 23:19 Almighty God declared, “God is not a man, that He should lie, nor a son of man, that He should repent. Has He said, and will He not do? Or has He spoken, and will He not make it good?” Throughout these Scriptures we see that The LORD GOD is ready, rushing and watching over His powerful word to perform it in our lives. How glorious and awesome is that? Thank You, LORD!

Would you like to know the LORD GOD as your Heavenly Father by inviting His Son, Jesus Christ into your heart? If you would, please pray this prayer: Dear God, I believe in my heart that Jesus Christ is Your Son. I believe that He died on the cross, shed His blood, and rose from the grave for my salvation. I confess Jesus right now as my Savior and Lord. God fill me with your Holy Spirit so that I can live a life that pleases You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen! If you prayed this prayer you are saved. Welcome into God’s Family

THE IMPACT OF YOUR CHOICES

BARBARA E. PERKINS

THE IMPACT OF YOUR CHOICES

God’s word in the Book of Genesis Chapter 2-3 (NKJV) reveals the disobedient choices that Adam and Eve made to launch sin into the world. From that point on we see God’s plan of mercy and grace, through Jesus Christ, ushering us back to Himself all through the Old Testament and right into the New Testament. In the Gospel of John 1:12-14 God’s word proclaims, 12 “But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name: 13 who were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God. 14 And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth. “ . There are always going to be choices that we are going to make that are going to affect our lives either positively or negatively as in the case with Adam and Eve. How will our choices affect our lives? How will our choices affect the lives of our Loved Ones? The following Scriptures further emphasize the impact of our choices: Deuteronomy 30:15, 19 declares, ““See, I have set before you today life and good, death and evil…” “I call heaven and earth as witnesses today against you, that I have set before you LIFE and DEATH, BLESSING and CURSING; THEREFORE CHOOSE LIFE, THAT BOTH YOU AND YOUR DESCENDANTS MAY LIVE…” Then Proverbs 18:21 declares, “DEATH and LIFE are in the POWER OF THE TONGUE, and those who love it will eat its fruit.” Our WORDS and our CHOICES will either BLESS us and our Loved Ones or CURSE us and them. Knowing this, can we now change what we are SAYING and purpose to make GODLY CHOICES??? If we FOCUS on GOD, He CAN and WILL help us with our TONGUE and with our CHOICES. Praise God for His great love for us and for His mercy!

Would you like to know the God as your Heavenly Father and come to know His Son, Jesus Christ, as your Savior and Lord? If you would, please pray this prayer: Dear God, I believe in my heart that Jesus Christ is Your Son. I believe that Jesus died on the cross, shed His blood, and rose from the grave for my salvation. I confess Him right now as my Savior and Lord. God fill me with your Holy Spirit so that I can live a life that pleases You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen! If you prayed this prayer you are saved. Welcome into God’s Family

MY SOUL WAITS ON GOD!

BARBARA E. PERKINS

MY SOUL WAITS ON GOD!

As God’s word declares in Psalm 62:1-2 (NKJV) so are my sentiments as well, “Truly my soul silently waits for God; from Him comes my salvation. He only is my rock and my salvation; He is my defense; I shall not be greatly moved.” Hallelujah to the LORD! No matter what is happening around me, I must praise God for His words of wisdom, power and deliverance. God’s word further declares what also warms my heart in Psalm 59:16-17 “But I will sing of Your power; yes, I will sing aloud of Your mercy in the morning; for You have been my defense and refuge in the day of my trouble. To You, O my Strength, I will sing praises; for God is my defense, my God of mercy.” Therefore, my soul patiently waits on the God of my SALVATION. Pause and calmly think on that because what God says, He will do (Hebrew 13:5b, Luke 1:37, Jeremiah 1:12 and Isaiah 55:11). Hallelujah to the LORD GOD ALMIGHTY!!! My soul waits on You, LORD!

Would you like to know the LORD GOD as your Heavenly Father and come to know His Son, Jesus Christ, as your Savior and Lord? If you would, please pray this prayer: Dear God, I believe in my heart that Jesus Christ is Your Son. I believe that Jesus died on the cross, shed His blood, and rose from the grave for my salvation. I confess Him right now as my Savior and Lord. God fill me with your Holy Spirit so that I can live a life that pleases You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen! If you prayed this prayer you are saved. Welcome into God’s Family!

THE JOY OF SEEKING THE LORD

BARBARA E. PERKINS

THE JOY OF SEEKING THE LORD

The word of God in Psalm 27:4-6 (NKJV) says, 4 “One thing I have desired of the Lord, that will I seek: That I may dwell in the house of the Lord All the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the Lord, and to inquire in His temple. 5 For in the time of trouble He shall hide me in His pavilion; in the secret place of His tabernacle He shall hide me; He shall set me high upon a rock. 6 And now my head shall be lifted up above my enemies all around me; therefore, I will offer sacrifices of joy in His tabernacle; I will sing, yes, I will sing praises to the Lord.”

LORD, I thank You for the joy, stability and peace that comes from seeking You and Your word. Your provisions are amazing and Your loving kindness is unfathomable. I bless Your Holy Name for You are worthy! I love You, my LORD and I adore You because there is so much joy in seeking You. Thank You, LORD!

Would you like to know the LORD GOD as your Heavenly Father and come to know His Son, Jesus Christ, as your Savior and Lord? If you would, please pray this prayer: Dear God, I believe in my heart that Jesus Christ is Your Son. I believe that Jesus died on the cross, shed His blood, and rose from the grave for my salvation. I confess Him right now as my Savior and Lord. God fill me with your Holy Spirit so that I can live a life that pleases You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen! If you prayed this prayer you are saved. Welcome into God’s Family!

WE ARE MORE THAN CONQUERORS!

BARBARA E. PERKINS

WE ARE MORE THAN CONQUERORS!

God’s word in Romans 8:31-37 (NIV) promises, 31 “What, then, shall we say in response to these things? IF GOD IS FOR US, WHO CAN BE AGAINST US? 32 He who did not spare His own Son, but gave Him up for us all—how will He not also, along with Him, graciously give us all things? 33 Who will bring any charge against those whom God has chosen? It is God who justifies. 34 Who then is the one who condemns? No one. Christ Jesus Who died—more than that, Who was raised to life—is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us. 35 Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? 36 As it is written: ‘For Your sake we face death all day long; we are considered as sheep to be slaughtered.’ 37 NO, IN ALL THESE THINGS WE ARE MORE THAN CONQUERORS THROUGH HIM WHO LOVED US.” These Scriptures verify why I trust and love the LORD God Almighty and His Son, Jesus Christ—my Lord and Savior. “If God be for us, who can be successful against us?” “We can cast all our cares on Almighty God…” (1 Peter 5:7). “In all these things we are more than conquerors through Jesus Christ Who loves us.”

Would you like to have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ as your Savior and Lord, as well as with Almighty God? Would you like to experience their love? If you would, please pray this prayer: Dear God, I believe in my heart that Jesus Christ is Your Son. I believe that Jesus died on the cross, shed His blood, and rose from the grave for my salvation. I confess Him right now as my Savior and Lord. God fill me with your Holy Spirit so that I can live a life that pleases You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen! If you prayed this prayer you are saved. Welcome into God’s Family!

I FOUND YOUR WORDS AND ATE THEM…

BARBARA E. PERKINS

I FOUND YOUR WORDS AND ATE THEM…

Jeremiah 15:16 (NKJV)

“Your words were found, and I ate them, and Your word was to me the joy and rejoicing of my heart; for I am called by Your name, O LORD God of hosts.” I was guided to this Scripture many years ago when I was helping my, primary school aged, daughter with her homework. This Scripture was the memory verse for her class and I have been feasting on God’s word since about that time. In fact, I got saved a few months before my daughter’s birth and I have had an insatiable diet of God’s word to this day. O the joy I have found through God’s word. O the joy and peace I have found in my relationship with God; as a result of inviting Jesus Christ into my life to be my Savior and Lord. LORD GOD, “I found Your words and I ate them…” Thank You, LORD, for Your life-changing word!

Would you like to know God as your Heavenly Father and come to know His Son, Jesus Christ, as your Savior and Lord? If you would, please pray this prayer: Dear God, I believe in my heart that Jesus Christ is Your Son. I believe that Jesus died on the cross, shed His blood, and rose from the grave for my salvation. I confess Him right now as my Savior and Lord. God fill me with your Holy Spirit so that I can live a life that pleases You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen! If you prayed this prayer you are saved. Welcome into God’s Family!

THE LORD IS MY LIGHT…

BARBARA E. PERKINS

THE LORD IS MY LIGHT…

The word of God in Psalm 27:1 (NKJV) declares, “The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The LORD is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?” LORD, I thank You for constantly delivering me, preserving me from situations that are too big for me to handle. You are so GOOD and so FAITHFUL! That’s just one of the reasons that I love You. The most important reason that I love You and Jesus Christ is because of what He did on the cross for me. How glorious is the knowledge of that concept! Jesus Christ, now my Savior and Lord, died for my SALVATION and brought me into right relationship with God—my Heavenly Father. Thank You, LORD GOD, for bringing LIGHT into my life. All Glory, Honor and Praise to YOU and to JESUS CHRIST forever!!!

Would you like to know God as your Heavenly Father and come to know His Son, Jesus Christ, as your Savior and Lord? If you would, please pray this prayer: Dear God, I believe in my heart that Jesus Christ is Your Son. I believe that Jesus died on the cross, shed His blood, and rose from the grave for my salvation. I confess Him right now as my Savior and Lord. God fill me with your Holy Spirit so that I can live a life that pleases You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen! If you prayed this prayer you are saved. Welcome into God’s Family!

Christ Formed In You

CHARLES H. PERKINS
Christ Formed In You

(Galatians 4:19) My little children, for whom I labor in birth again until Christ is formed in you,

(Romans 8:29) For whom He foreknew, He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son, that He might be the firstborn among many brethren.

Father, by your word, prayer and the power of The Holy Spirit, help me to be continually conformed into the image of Your Son so that Christ may be formed in me.  I love You.