Focus On God: 2019

Wednesday, September 25, 2019

HE WHO WINS SOULS IS WISE!

BARBARA E. PERKINS

HE WHO WINS SOULS IS WISE!

God’s word in Proverbs 11:30 (NKJV) declares, “The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life, and he who wins souls is wise.” Are you the righteous? You are if you have made Jesus Christ your Savior and Lord. “For He (God) made Him (Jesus) who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him (Christ Jesus)” (2 Corinthians 5:21). So, are you the righteous? If you are the righteous, there should be fruit in your life. 22 “…The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law.” This fruit should be in our lives. There is no law that can prosper against us when we are full of God’s fruit because He shows up to defend us (Daniel 3:19-25). This fruit can change lives. This fruit invites God into our circumstances. This fruit causes the righteous to be a tree of life. WHY? Because we have a command to carry out God’s and Christ Jesus’ mandate to save souls which leads to eternal life (John 17:3). “For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved” (John 3:17). Jesus said to His disciples, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature. He who believes and is baptized will be saved; but he who does not believe will be condemned” (Mark 16:15-16). God has given us the fruit that is necessary to win souls. “…HE WHO WINS SOULS IS WISE!” Are you winning souls? He who wins souls is wise! Are you wise? He who wins souls is wise!!!

Would you like to be saved and develop a relationship with God as your Heavenly Father? If you would really like to know God, invite His Son, Jesus Christ, into your heart. Please pray this prayer: Dear God, please forgive me of my sins. 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, based on Roman 10:9-10, you are saved. Welcome into God’s Family!

IN A WORD

CHARLES H. PERKINS

IN A WORD

As we know, words are very powerful. How they are used can determine how a situation can turns out. Words can build up or destroy. As Proverbs 18:21 says, “Death and life are in the power of the tongue…” We see God speaking life into existence in Genesis 1. We see the serpent (Satan) using words to cause Adam and Eve to doubt the integrity of God’s word in Genesis 3. As a result, sin and death came into the world. We see God’s gift of salvation written out in John 3:16. All through the bible we see the power of words or a single word when spoken at the right moment. One of the most powerful words uttered in the entire Bible is expressed in Matt. 26:39 and Luke 22:42. Both of these passages speak of Jesus praying in the Garden of Gethsemane. On the night of His betrayal Jesus says to the Father, “Father, if it is Your will, take this cup away from Me; nevertheless not My will, but Yours, be done.” In His humanity, Jesus basically asks The Father if there is another way. He is agonizing over what He is about to go through to the point that His sweat is falling like great drops of blood. Angels came to strengthen Him. After speaking to The Father of the possibility of not going through this, He utters this powerful word: “NEVERTHELESS”!!! Then He surrendered to The Father’s will. Think of what would have happened had He not uttered that one word. Think of how different mankind’s destiny would have been had He not uttered that one word. Think of the hopelessness of mankind had He not uttered that one word. After that one word was uttered, the process that brought about the forgiveness of sin and the hope of eternal life started. Thank You, Lord! Thank You, Lord! Thank You, Lord!

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 and meant it, you are saved. Welcome to God’s Family!

DON’T GET EVEN—PRAY!

BARBARA E. PERKINS

DON’T GET EVEN—PRAY!

Don’t Get Even! Read, Meditate God’s Word—Pray! I have also heard it said, “Don’t Be Bitter, Be Better!” God’s word admonishes us on this subject in His Own unique way in Matthew 5:44-48 (NKJV). 44 “But I say to you, LOVE YOUR ENEMIES, BLESS THOSE WHO CURSE YOU, DO GOOD TO THOSE WHO HATE YOU, AND PRAY FOR THOSE WHO SPITEFULLY USE YOU AND PERSECUTE YOU, 45 THAT YOU MAY BE SONS (AND DAUGHTERS) OF YOUR FATHER IN HEAVEN; for He makes His sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust. 46 For if you love those who love you, what reward have you? Do not even the tax collectors do the same? 47 And if you greet your brethren only, what do you do more than others? Do not even the tax collectors do so? 48 Therefore you shall be perfect, just as your Father in heaven is perfect.” The Amplified Bible clarifies verse 48 this way, “You, therefore, will be perfect (growing into spiritual maturity both in mind and character, actively integrating godly values into your daily life), as your heavenly Father is perfect.” When we read and examine these Scriptures we tend to wonder if a lifestyle like this example is really possible. It’s possible! But are we willing to trust and do God’s word? It might not be easy for us, but God promises to assist us through prayer and His word. In Luke 1:37 (also in Jeremiah 32:27) God promises, “For with God nothing will be impossible.” God, also promises in Philippians 4:13, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Almighty God is so full of love for us and He wants us to grow, mature in His word, trusting Him. He wants us to be PEACEMAKERS (Matthew 5:9). “Therefore, whatever you want men to do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets” (Matthew 7:12). Then God the Father promises to defend us, as seen in Romans 12:18-19. “If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men. BELOVED, DO NOT AVENGE YOURSELVES, but rather give place to wrath; for it is written, ‘VENGEANCE IS MINE, I WILL REPAY,’ SAYS THE LORD.” Our loving God can handle anything to big for us to deal with and He will, IF we DON’T GET EVEN. Read, Meditate God’s Word—PRAY.

ON THE LORD’S RETURN

BARBARA E. PERKINS

ON THE LORD’S RETURN

God’s word in 2 Peter 3:9-14 and 17-18 (NKJV) provides clues of the Lord Jesus Christ’s return, to those of us who believe in Him, and guidance on how we should conduct ourselves. 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. 10 But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night, in which the heavens will pass away with a great noise, and the elements will melt with fervent heat; both the earth and the works that are in it will be burned up. 11 Therefore, since all these things will be dissolved, what manner of persons ought you to be in holy conduct and godliness, 12 looking for and hastening the coming of the day of God, because of which the heavens will be dissolved, being on fire, and the elements will melt with fervent heat? 13 Nevertheless we, according to His promise, look for new heavens and a new earth in which righteousness dwells. 14 Therefore, beloved, looking forward to these things, be diligent to be found by Him in peace, without spot and blameless…” 17 “You therefore, beloved, since you know this beforehand, beware lest you also fall from your own steadfastness, being led away with the error of the wicked; 18 but grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be the glory both now and forever. Amen.” Almighty God revealed in His word that His promises will not return void, empty of His purpose (Isaiah 55:11). In addition, the LORD GOD is always ready to perform His powerful word, so He can be trusted. (Jeremiah 1:12). The LORD GOD is faithful to prepare us for the return of His Son, Jesus Christ (Savior and Lord to those of us who have invited Him into our hearts). These Scriptures are a profound example of the LORD GOD’S mercy and grace to alert us to get our lives in order before Jesus Christ’s return. Oh, the love of Almighty God to prepare us in advance for that great day. You, be ready for Jesus Christ’s return!

CAN TWO WALK TOGETHER WITHOUT AGREEING?

BARBARA E. PERKINS

CAN TWO WALK TOGETHER WITHOUT AGREEING?

God’s word in Amos 3:3 (NKJV) challenges us with this defining question, “Can two walk together, unless they are agreed?” That’s God’s word! What do you think? “Can two walk together, unless they are agreed?” Are you walking with and agreeing with someone who is a distraction to your focus on Your God and on His Son, Jesus Christ (John 17:3)? Who are you walking with that you that you can’t share God’s life-saving word with? “Can two walk together, unless they are agreed?” God loves us too much to just let us moonwalk (walking backwards) through life. He wants us always walking into our blessed destiny, not towards our past mistakes. God’s word offers so many wonderful possibilities, if we choose to embrace it. Jesus pleads with us, John 14:15, “If you love Me, keep My commandments.” Jesus continues pleading in the following Scriptures, John 14:21,23, “He who has My commandments and keeps them, it is he who loves Me. And he who loves Me will be loved by My Father, and I will love him and manifest Myself to him.” 23 “Jesus answered …, ‘If anyone loves Me, he will keep My word; and My Father will love him, and We will come to him and make Our home with him.’” Jesus loves us and is concerned about us, like His Father God. Agree to walk with God! Agree with what He says about you. God’s word in Jeremiah 29:11-13 says this about you, “11 For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope. 12 Then you will call upon Me and go and pray to Me, and I will listen to you. 13 And you will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart.” Proverbs 5:5-6 has these encouraging words, 5 “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; 6 In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.” Agree to walk with God and keep His word. Agree to be blessed by God! He loves you so much!

GOD IS LOVE!

BARBARA E. PERKINS

GOD IS LOVE!

In the Epistle of 1 John 4:7-11 (NKJV) the word of God emphatically declares the preeminent aspect of His multifaceted nature which is love. 7 “Beloved, let us love one another, for LOVE IS OF GOD; and EVERY WHO LOVES IS BORN OF GOD AND KNOWS GOD. 8 HE WHO DOES NOT LOVE DOES NOT KNOW GOD, for GOD IS LOVE. 9 In this the love of God was manifested toward us, that God has sent His only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through Him. 10 In this is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son to be the propitiation for our sins. 11 Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another.“ If we love one another we are born of God. GOD SAYS THAT IF WE DON’T SHOW LOVE, WE DON’T EVEN KNOW HIM. I don’t know about you, but I don’t want to ever hear THE LORD SAY (as in Matthew 7:21-23), “…I NEVER KNEW YOU; DEPART FROM ME…” He is saying we are not saved, no matter what we profess or how pious we act. The highlight of God’s love for us was manifested and demonstrated by the fact He sent His only Son to be the atoning sacrifice for the sins of the world, to bring us into right relationship with His Father God. That’s a real special love that can’t be matched. God loved us first! He said we should love one another. Plain and simple, not complicated! God is love, that’s His nature! We are love because that should be our new nature if we are born again. God’s mercy and grace are also key attributes. But I believe God’s Love is unsurpassed by any of His other attributes, yet, they are all great and essential in order for us to live the successful Christian life. The Fruit of God’s Holy Spirit, which is extremely important in the development of Christian character, in Galatians 5:22-23, begins with, what else but, LOVE. 22 “But the fruit of the Spirit is LOVE, JOY, PEACE, LONGSUFFERING, KINDNESS, GOODNESS, FAITHFULNESS, 23 GENTLENESS, SELF-CONTROL. Against such there is no law.” God’s wonderful attributes are like examining a lovely, brilliant stone. Every way you turn the stone and examine it, you see another aspect of God’s amazing brilliance through these attributes that are necessary to transform our lives. But it is God’s most awesome attribute of LOVE that gave us Jesus Christ, Savior of the world. God is love! He wants us to show that we have LOVE for one another.

GOD’S PRIORITY IS SALVATION, IS IT OURS?

BARBARA E. PERKINS

GOD’S PRIORITY IS SALVATION, IS IT OURS?

God’s word in 2 Peter 3:9 (NKJV) gives us significant insight into His priority when it comes to salvation. “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.” When it comes to salvation, God does not delay about His promise to us. Salvation is a promise from God to us. God is so patient with us and He doesn’t want any of us to die in our sins, but He wants us to repent. Salvation as a priority with God is vividly illustrated in the Gospel of John 3:17-18. “17 For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved. 18 “He who believes in Him is not condemned; but he who does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.” Almighty God felt such an urgency for the world to be saved that He sent His only, sinless, Son to redeem us. Who would send his only, beloved son to save an evil, sin sick world? God did! Thank You, LORD! God, in His infinite mercy towards us, did not send His Son to condemn the world, but to save the world. Jesus Christ’s response to His Father’s urgency regarding salvation is summed up in Hebrews 10:5-7, “Therefore, when He came into the world, He said: ‘Sacrifice and offering You did not desire, but a body You have prepared for Me. 6 In burnt offerings and sacrifices for sin You had no pleasure. 7 Then I said, Behold, I have come—In the volume of the book it is written of Me—to do Your will, O God.’” God, The Father, was honored by His Son, Jesus’ obedience, to redeem the world. God declared (paraphrased), “You’re not condemn if you believe in Jesus Christ, but if you don’t believe in Jesus and His name, you’re already condemned because He is the only begotten Son of God. Words can’t convey the importance and urgency of salvation. Someone can be here today and gone tomorrow, to be in the glorious presence of the Lord Jesus Christ and Almighty God or in the lake of fire. Revelation 20:12, 15 clearly states, “12 And I saw the dead, small and great, standing before God, and books were opened. And another book was opened, which is the Book of Life. And the dead were judged according to their works, by the things which were written in the books.” 15 “And anyone not found written in the BOOK OF LIFE was cast into the lake of fire.” Salvation is the difference between eternal life for someone or eternal death. God views salvation as a major priority! Do you?

Saturday, August 24, 2019

GOD WANTS AMBASSADORS FOR CHRIST!

BARBARA E. PERKINS

GOD WANTS AMBASSADORS FOR CHRIST!

The word of God in 2 Corinthians 5:18-20 (NKJV) declares His hearts desire for all of us. “18 Now all things are of God, who has reconciled us to Himself through Jesus Christ, and has given us the ministry of reconciliation, 19 that is, that God was in Christ reconciling the world to Himself, not imputing their trespasses to them, and has committed to us the word of reconciliation. 20 Now then, we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were pleading through us: we implore you on Christ’s behalf, be reconciled to God.” Since God is pleading for souls to be saved, it is a PRIORITY with Him. Shouldn’t soul saving be a PRIORITY with us as well? God loves us so much that He made provisions for us (the world) to get back into right relationship with Himself through Jesus Christ, His Son. Then God, in His mercy, gave to us the ministry of reconciliation. He, God, was in Christ reestablishing our relationship to Himself and not taking into account our sins. As a result, God committed to us the word of reconciliation. He actually commissioned us to be Ambassadors for Christ. God, Himself pleads through us for others to be reconciled to Himself through Christ Jesus. God’s word in Malachi 3:6 declares, “For I am the Lord, I do not change; therefore, you are not consumed, O sons of Jacob.” God is still pleading for souls to be saved. That’s still extremely important to God and should be extremely important to us also. That’s God’s love manifested! He wants to draw us to Himself through Christ Jesus and He wants to forgive us of our sins. God wants to show us favor by not attributing to us our trespasses. Thank You, LORD! Hallelujah!!! We get a fresh new start to live righteously. How great is that? Oh, the mercy and grace of God! In addition, God wants us to share these facts of His love with others as His Ambassadors for the Lord Jesus Christ. How wonderful is that? Ambassadors for Jesus Christ, representing God’s Kingdom! So Awesome!!!

ALL THINGS WORK TOGETHER FOR GOOD! Part 2

BARBARA E. PERKINS

ALL THINGS WORK TOGETHER FOR GOOD! Part 2

In Part 1 of Romans 8:28 (NKJV), we learned that “All things work together for good to (1) Those who love God, (2) To those who are called (3) According to God’s purpose.” The first phrase of this Scripture explains a part of why all things work together for good to those who love God. I want to believe that we love God because He loved us first. Many of us are familiar with John 3:16, “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.” God loves us so much that He sent His Son, Jesus Christ, to save us from our sin nature. That’s a powerful love! Upon examining Romans 8:28 again, I want to focus on numbers (2) and (3). All things work together for good to those who love God and (2) to those who are called (3) according to God’s purpose. We, the body of Christ/that’s ALL who have made Jesus Christ our Savior and Lord, are ALL CALLED ACCORDING TO GOD’S PURPOSE and it’s to the MINISTRY OF RECONCILIATION. 2 Corinthians 5:18-20 confirms this fact, “18 Now all things are of God, who has reconciled us to Himself through Jesus Christ, and has given us the ministry of reconciliation, 19 that is, that God was in Christ reconciling the world to Himself, not imputing their trespasses to them, and has committed to us the word of reconciliation. 20 Now then, we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were pleading through us: we implore you on Christ’s behalf, be reconciled to God.” This Scripture affirms that everyone that is part of the body of Christ is CALLED ACCORDING TO GOD PURPOSE. We have to realize that fact and start telling our families, friends and all those we come in contact with in our daily lives about God’s tremendous love for us and about Jesus’ ultimate sacrifice for our salvation. We are Ambassadors for Christ in the Earth realm. Our lifestyles should exemplify that we are representatives of God and His kingdom. We have to always remember these crucial facts: “And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.” Praise God for His faithfulness to us and His powerful word.

ALL THINGS WORK TOGETHER FOR GOOD! Part 1

BARBARA E. PERKINS

ALL THINGS WORK TOGETHER FOR GOOD! Part 1

There are special benefits to loving God and being called according to His purpose. God’s word in Romans 8:28 (NKJV) states it in this manner, “AND WE KNOW that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.” This Scriptures says, “THIS IS SOMETHING THAT WE KNOW! This is something we can count on! ALL THINGS WORK TOGETHER FOR GOOD! REQUIREMENTS: 1. To those who love God! 2. To those who are called! 3. According to God’s purpose! This Scripture is often misquoted and misunderstood. We can’t expect this Scripture to work in our lives, if we are not living up to its requirements. Can we??? NOW, (after carefully examining the essence of this Scripture) we can UNDERSTAND, BELIEVE and EXPECT the BENEFITS of this DYNAMIC SCRIPTURE TO WORK IN OUR LIVES. “And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.” All things might not look good or feel good at the time we are going through our challenges. But, we absolutely must focus on God’s word. 2 Corinthians 4:17-18 provides additional insight into understanding the previous Scripture. “For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, is working for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory, 18 while we do not look at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen. For the things which are seen are temporary, but the things which are not seen are eternal.” We have to look at what God’s word is saying to us about our circumstances AND BELIEVE HIS WORD. Praise God for His powerful word to us! Almighty God assures us, “We (can) know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.” But, we must trust God and His word totally! Thank You, LORD GOD, for Your mercy and Your grace.

Thursday, July 25, 2019

THE NAME OF THE LORD IS A STRONG TOWER!

BARBARA E. PERKINS

THE NAME OF THE LORD IS A STRONG TOWER!

The word of God in Proverbs 18:10 (NKJV) declares, “The NAME of the LORD is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe.” In time of trouble, small or great, I need a STRONG TOWER where I can run and find help. Don’t you??? Where do you run when the storms of life are too great for you? When the storms of life are too great for me, I run to the ROCK. God’s word describes HIMSELF, my ROCK, in Psalm 18:1-3 declares, “I will love You, O LORD, my strength. 2 The LORD is my ROCK and my Fortress and my Deliverer; my God, my Strength, in Whom I will trust; my Shield and the Horn of my Salvation, my Stronghold. 3 I will call upon the LORD, WHO is worthy to be praised; so shall I be saved from my enemies.” “The Name of the LORD is a strong tower…” I am so glad that that I can run to the LORD and be safe. I am equally grateful that I can count on the LORD and trust Him to be my STRONG TOWER, my STRENGTH, my ROCK, my FORTRESS, my DELIVERER, my GOD, my SHIELD, the HORN of my SALVATION, and my STRONGHOLD. Hallelujah to the LORD!!! Thank YOU, LORD!!! Where do you go when each day is overwhelming? I run to the ROCK!!! Where do you run when your doctors offer an unfavorable outcome to your aches, your pains and/or no hope??? I run to the ROCK! His NAME is ALMIGHTY GOD, EL SHADDAI!!! He is my HEALER, JEHOVAH RAPHAH!!! He is my PROVIDER, JEHOVAH JIREH!!! He is my Deliverance and Mighty Salvation in victory. The LORD is my BANNER, JEHOVAH NISSI!!! Yes, HE is ALMIGHTY GOD and His Son, also, has a VERY POWERFUL NAME. That NAME is JESUS CHRIST, a NAME that is ABOVE EVERY NAME. God’s word emphatically states it this way, in Philippians 2:9-11, “Therefore God also has HIGHLY EXALTED HIM and GIVEN HIM THE NAME which is ABOVE EVERY NAME, 10 THAT AT THE NAME OF JESUS EVERY KNEE SHOULD BOW, of those IN HEAVEN, and of THOSE ON EARTH, and of THOSE UNDER THE EARTH, 11 and THAT EVERY TONGUE SHOULD CONFESS THAT JESUS CHRIST IS LORD, TO THE GLORY OF GOD THE FATHER.” I thank my God, my Rock, that I can always run to Him in time of need and to His Son, Jesus Christ, my Savior and Lord. Praise the LORD for His love, compassion and faithfulness! Yes, “The NAME of the LORD IS A STRONG TOWER; the righteous run to it and are safe.” Hallelujah!!!

Friday, July 19, 2019

GET WISDOM!!!

BARBARA E. PERKINS

GET WISDOM!!!

We are living at a time when life can be so difficult for us, if we do not have God’s wisdom guiding us in every area of our lives. The LORD informs us in the Book of Proverbs just how important it is for us to get godly wisdom and to understand how to use it. The word of God in Proverbs 4:7 (NKJV) says it this way, “Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore, get wisdom. And in all your getting, get understanding.” How do we get wisdom? Proverbs 2:6-8 answers that question, 6 “For the Lord gives wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding; 7 He stores up sound wisdom for the upright; He is a shield to those who walk uprightly; 8 He guards the paths of justice, and preserves the way of His saints.” God’s protection for us! The LORD gives us wisdom which He stores up for the righteous. From His mouth (His word) we get knowledge and understanding. That’s why it is imperative that we study God’s word. James 1:5-8 shares additional insight on getting wisdom. “5 If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him. 6 But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for he who doubts is like a wave of the sea driven and tossed by the wind. 7 For let not that man suppose that he will receive anything from the LORD; 8 he is a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways.” God is merciful and He doesn’t want us operating in this Earth realm without having the tools necessary to be successful, as He defines success. Yes, the LORD gives us knowledge and understanding, but He commands us to GET THE PRINCIPLE THING—WISDOM.

JESUS CHRIST LIVES TO INTERCEDE FOR US

BARBARA E. PERKINS

JESUS CHRIST LIVES TO INTERCEDE FOR US

God’s powerful word in Hebrews 7:25 (NKJV) declares, “Therefore He is also able to save to the uttermost those who come to God through Him, since He always lives to make intercession for them.” Jesus Christ lives to pray for us because His heart’s desire is to saved us. Jesus said (John 8:29), “…The Father has not left Me alone, for I ALWAYS DO THOSE THINGS THAT PLEASE HIM.” Jesus Christ wants to be our Savior and Lord so that He can bring us back into right relationship with God, His Father. SALVATION is a MAJOR PRIORITY in the Kingdom of God. Since SALVATION is a MAJOR PRIORITY with Jesus Christ and God the Father, shouldn’t it be a major priority with us, if we are God’s people? Jesus Christ is at the right hand of the Father and He lives to make intercession for us to bring souls into the Kingdom of God while there is still time. He is able to save to the uttermost, those who want to be saved, IF WE COME TO GOD THROUGH HIM. Can you imagine that someone is living to pray for us so that we will be saved? YES, and His Name is JESUS CHRIST! Not only does He pray for our Salvation, but He lives to pray for us always and in every situation as confirmed in Romans 8:34-35. “…It is Christ who died, and furthermore is also risen, who is even at the right hand of God, WHO ALSO MAKES INTERCESSION FOR US. 35 Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword?” Nothing will separate us from the love of God and the love of Christ Jesus, no matter what is happening in our lives. Praise be to our Savior and Lord Jesus Christ for having an awesome, compassionate heart to always intercede for us.

IT SEEMS RIGHT, BUT IS IT REALLY?

BARBARA E. PERKINS

IT SEEMS RIGHT, BUT IS IT REALLY?

The word of God in Proverbs 14:12 (NKJV) states decisively, “THERE IS A WAY THAT SEEMS RIGHT TO A MAN (or woman), BUT ITS END IS THE WAY OF DEATH.” The fact that Almighty God found it necessary to reiterate this Scripture in Proverbs 16:25 serves to emphasize its importance. This Scripture brings to mind another profound Scripture in Romans 6:23, “FOR THE WAGES OF SIN IS DEATH, BUT THE GIFT OF GOD IS ETERNAL LIFE IN CHRIST JESUS OUR LORD.” Sin offers temporary fun and the wages it pays is death. But God, in His infinite mercy and grace, offers us the Gift of Eternal Life (living forever) in Christ Jesus (if we invited Jesus Christ into our hearts to be our Lord and Savior). God’s word alerts us so many times that we don’t have to choose death. That’s God’s compassion! Many of us are aware of what a powerful man of God Moses developed into and it can be very fruitful for us to get his prospective on sin. The following wisdom comes from God’s word, as spoken by Moses and recorded in Hebrews 11:25-26 (KJV), 25 “(He) choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God, THAN TO ENJOY THE PLEASURES OF SIN FOR A SEASON; 26 Esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures in Egypt...” Moses had been living the life of royalty doing what was right in his own eyes as the son of Pharaoh’s daughter, the King of Egypt. When God called Moses to lead His people out of Egyptian bondage, Moses renounced his previous life with all that was associated with it, choosing to suffer with God’s people (who were by birthright his people also), rather “than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season.” Today, we still have to be reminded of that fact because unless there is some kind of tragedy or catastrophic event in society, few people want to hear about Jesus Christ and the things of God. Moses stated there is a season of sin. You could be in your season of sin. Keep in mind that you never know if you are going to make it out of your SEASON OF SIN ALIVE. However, the word of God should always be our plumb line, our guide to what is RIGHT. There is a way that seems right—that seems wonderful in our own eyes, but is it really?

ARE YOU DOING YOUR OWN THING? Part 3

BARBARA E. PERKINS

ARE YOU DOING YOUR OWN THING?

Part 3

Are you still doing your own thing? God’s word in Ephesians 2:10 (NKJV) proclaims, “For we are (God’s) workmanship (His artistry), created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.” This is still God’s plan for us! He created us for good works so that we are pleasing to Him. There is an account in the Old Testament of the Bible that deals with the life of Noah. The word of God in Genesis Chapter 6 (NKJV) shares information that very much resembles what is happening in our world today. Also, in Genesis Chapter 6:5-12, this picture is quite disturbing, 5 “THEN THE LORD SAW THAT THE WICKEDNESS OF MAN (mankind) WAS GREAT IN THE EARTH, AND THAT EVERY INTENT OF THE THOUGHTS OF HIS HEART WAS ONLY EVIL CONTINUALLY. 6 AND THE LORD WAS SORRY THAT HE HAD MADE MAN (mankind) ON THE EARTH, AND HE WAS GRIEVED IN HIS HEART. 7 So the Lord said, “I will destroy man whom I have created from the face of the earth, both man and beast, creeping thing and birds of the air, for I am sorry that I have made them.” 8 BUT NOAH FOUND GRACE IN THE EYES OF THE LORD. 9 This is the genealogy of Noah. NOAH WAS A JUST MAN, perfect in his generations. NOAH WALKED WITH GOD. 10 And Noah begot three sons: Shem, Ham, and Japheth. 11 The earth also was corrupt before God, and the earth was filled with violence. 12 So God looked upon the earth, and indeed it was corrupt; for all flesh had corrupted their way on the earth.” The Creator of the Universe, Who made mankind in His own image and likeness, regretted that He had created man because of man’s wickedness. But, Noah and his family found favor with Almighty God. Mankind chose to do their own thing, instead of what pleases God. Galatians 6:7, says it this way, “Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap.” God looking down on all the wickedness on Earth gave Noah, a preacher of righteous, instructions on how to prepare for the flood that was coming (2 Peter 2:5-6). Noah, as instructed by God, built an ark to save himself, his family and whoever would be obedient to God’s word. When the ark was completed those who would be saved, went into it and the LORD shut the door (Genesis 7:16). Noah, his wife, their three sons, plus their wives—eight persons that were saved from the flood. We always have two choices, either to do our own thing or to obey the word of God. Proverbs 14:12 emphatically states, “There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death.” Which do you choose?

Tuesday, June 18, 2019

HALLELUJAH

Charles H. Perkins

Sometimes, "HALLELUJAH!!!" is all you need to say.

ARE YOU DOING YOUR OWN THING? Part 2

BARBARA E. PERKINS

ARE YOU DOING YOUR OWN THING? Part 2

Are you still doing your own thing? God’s word in Ephesians 2:10 (NKJV) proclaims, “FOR WE ARE HIS (God’s) WORKMANSHIP (HIS ARTISTRY), CREATED IN CHRIST JESUS FOR GOOD WORKS, WHICH GOD PREPARED BEFOREHAND THAT WE SHOULD WALK IN THEM.” Did God’s word say that we were created to do our own thing? God’s word from Genesis 1:26-27 (NKJV) recorded the following powerful image, 26 “Then God said, “Let Us make man in Our image, according to Our likeness; let them have dominion… 27 So God created man in His own image; in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them.” WHY??? Ephesians 1:3-6

Sheds floodlights on God’s plan for us, “ 3 BLESSED BE THE GOD AND FATHER OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST, WHO HAS BLESSED US WITH EVERY SPIRITUAL BLESSING IN THE HEAVENLY PLACES IN CHRIST, 4 JUST AS HE CHOSE US IN HIM (SELF) BEFORE THE FOUNDATION OF THE WORLD, THAT WE SHOULD BE HOLY AND WITHOUT BLAME BEFORE HIM IN LOVE, 5 HAVING PREDESTINED (PREPLANNED) US TO ADOPTION AS SONS (AND DAUGHTERS) BY JESUS CHRIST TO HIMSELF, ACCORDING TO THE GOOD PLEASURE OF HIS WILL, 6 to the praise of the glory of HIS GRACE, BY WHICH HE MADE US ACCEPTED IN THE BELOVED.” God, the Father, wants us for Himself—for His will. He has blessed us with everything we need to be successful. We are God’s children CREATED IN HIS IMAGE AND LIKENESS. If we could just grasp the enormity of that vivid picture! God is loving, full of mercy, grace and peace. So are we! He is just and righteous. So are we! He is faithful and can be trusted. So are we! Almighty God created us in Christ Jesus to be holy (set apart) and blameless before Him in love FOR GOOD WORKS and He is still molding and shaping us. Thank You, LORD! Glory to Almighty God! In the beginning, God walked with Adam and Eve in the garden in the cool of the of the day and they had fellowship with God before their sin/disobedience—before they were persuaded to do their own thing. If we have been redeemed by Jesus Christ, we can now commune with God as His own dear children. That’s been God’s plan from the beginning. God adopted us into His family and accepted us through Jesus Christ in love. As a result of what you know now, based on God’s word, CAN YOU REALLY CHOOSE TO DO YOUR OWN THING? Are you persuaded to do God’s will (His word is His will) and allow Jesus Christ to be your Lord and Savior? Know that God loves you with a special love, no matter what you have done in your life.

ARE YOU DOING YOUR OWN THING? Part 1

BARBARA E. PERKINS

ARE YOU DOING YOUR OWN THING? Part 1

Are You Doing Your Own Thing? Should we be doing our own thing? The word of God in Ephesians 2:1-10 (NKJV) answers these questions for us, “And you He made alive, who were dead in trespasses and sins, 2 in which you once walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit who now works in the sons of disobedience, 3 among whom also we all once conducted ourselves in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, just as the others. 4 BUT GOD, WHO IS RICH IN MERCY, BECAUSE OF HIS GREAT LOVE WITH WHICH HE LOVED US, 5 EVEN WHEN WE WERE DEAD IN TRESPASSES, MADE US ALIVE TOGETHER WITH CHRIST (BY GRACE YOU HAVE BEEN SAVED), 6 AND RAISED US UP TOGETHER, AND MADE US SIT TOGETHER, IN THE HEAVENLY PLACES IN CHRIST JESUS, 7 that in the ages to come He might show the exceeding riches of His grace in His kindness toward us in Christ Jesus. 8 For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, 9 not of works, lest anyone should boast. 10 FOR WE ARE HIS WORKMANSHIP (HIS ARTISTRY), CREATED IN CHRIST JESUS FOR GOOD WORKS, WHICH GOD PREPARED BEFOREHAND THAT WE SHOULD WALK IN THEM.” Now, should we be doing our own thing based on God’s word? Take a look at Ephesians 2:10 again, (Amplified version of the Bible) which proclaims, “10 For we are His workmanship [His own master work, a work of art], created in Christ Jesus [reborn from above—spiritually transformed, renewed, ready to be used] for good works, which God prepared [for us] beforehand [taking paths which He set], so that we would walk in them [living the good life which He prearranged and made ready for us]. Hallelujah!!! Proverbs 14:12 (NKJV) responds with, “There is a way that seems right to a man (or woman), but its end is the way of death.” DID JESUS CHRIST SHED HIS BLOOD, DIE ON THE CROSS, AND SAVE US JUST SO THAT WE CAN DO OUR OWN THING? Almighty God, because of His love, created us as His work of art, His own masterpiece, in Christ Jesus, to take pathways He set for our good. Praise His Holy Name!

THE LORD ASKED, “WHAT’S IN YOUR HAND?”

BARBARA E. PERKINS

THE LORD ASKED, “WHAT’S IN YOUR HAND?”

There is a wonderful example in the Bible where Moses found Himself on assignment for the LORD, yet He didn’t feel that He was equipped for the task. Moses was beginning to learn how to trust God and didn’t feel that He could convince Israel that God had sent Him to deliver them from Egyptian bondage. Whatever the LORD calls us to do, He equips us to do. In Exodus 4:1-2 (NKJV) the word of God continues in this manner, “Then Moses answered and said, ‘But suppose they will not believe me or listen to my voice; suppose they say, The LORD has not appeared to you.’” 2 “So the LORD said to him, “What is that in your hand?” He said, “A rod.” The rod was a symbol of the fact that the LORD can miraculously use anything to give us the confidence to do His will. Throughout the Book of Exodus, we see Almighty God encouraging Moses to use what was in his hand (his rod) and see the salvation of the LORD. Moses did and he was victorious.

What’s in your hand? What is it that the LORD has already equipped you to do? It may not be a rod, but He has already prepared you or is preparing you for something very special and you CAN do it. The word of God in 1 Samuel 17: 40-46, reveals what David (a youth) had in his hand when he confronted Goliath. Goliath was defying the living God and harassing God’s people. In David’s hand was his staff, five smooth stones and his sling shot. In 1 Samuel 17:45-46, we see David’s unwavering faith in Almighty God’s ability to deliver Goliath into His hands and this is expressed in the following Scriptures, “Then David said to the Philistine, ‘You come to me with a sword, with a spear, and with a javelin. But I come to you in the name of the LORD of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied. 46 This day the LORD will deliver you into my hand…’” …And God did!!! The LORD used Moses, David and so many others in the Bible and during our era mightily. The LORD GOD of hosts wants to use us for His glory. The only thing stopping us is--us! What’s in your hand? Or what gift (s) has the LORD breathed into you? Use your special gift (s) for the LORD and watch Him shower you with His loving kindness.

CAN TWO WALK TOGETHER AND NOT AGREE? Part 2

BARBARA E. PERKINS

CAN TWO WALK TOGETHER AND NOT AGREE? Part 2

Now the word of God in Amos 3:1-3 (NKJV) declares, “3 Hear this word that the Lord has spoken against you, O children of Israel, against the whole family which I brought up from the land of Egypt, saying: 2 ‘You only have I known of all the families of the earth; therefore I will punish you for all your iniquities.’ 3 Can two walk together, unless they are agreed?” Can we really walk with God and not agree with His word? What are you doing that you know is not agreeing with God’s word? It is because of LORD’s mercy and grace that we have not been consumed (Lamentations 3:22). God’s word admonishes, “But exhort one another daily, while it is called ‘Today’ lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin.” Like with Israel, our Compassionate God gives us so many chances to govern our lives according to His word. First John 1:8-9 “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 is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” That’s God’s mercy and grace! Don’t frustrate the grace of God! In the Book of Revelation 3:20, God’s Beloved Son, Jesus Christ, encourages us with these affectionate words, “Behold, I stand at the door (of your heart) and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and dine with him, and he with Me.” Let Jesus Christ into your heart and let Him change your life. Can you comprehend how much Jesus loves us? He sacrificed His life for us to bring us back into right relation with His Father God. What a love! Let’s Agree with God’s word and walk with Him. Ephesians 1:5 reveals the heart of God for us, "Having predestined us to adoption as sons (and daughters) by Jesus Christ to Himself, according to the good pleasure of His will." God wants us as His own dear children. How awesome is that! Can two walk together and not agree? No, we CANNOT walk with the Living God, unless agree with Him and be a doer of His powerful word. LORD GOD, thank You for your profound love for us and for sending Your Precious Son, Jesus Christ, to redeem us. My God, what a love! I am so grateful for my salvation.

CAN TWO WALK TOGETHER AND NOT AGREE? Part 1

BARBARA E. PERKINS

CAN TWO WALK TOGETHER AND NOT AGREE? Part 1

The word of God in Amos 3:1-3 (NKJV) declares, “3 Hear this word that the Lord has spoken against you, O children of Israel, against the whole family which I brought up from the land of Egypt, saying: 2 ‘You only have I known of all the families of the earth; therefore I will punish you for all your iniquities.’ 3 Can two walk together, unless they are agreed?” It is especially insightful reading the Old Testament Book of Amos because of the similarities that one can draw between God’s people then and now. Amos’ messages were during a period of unprecedented economic and political prosperity. He denounced the people for neglecting God’s word, for social injustice, seeking-pleasure, self-indulgence, and gross idolatry. Today’s idolatry examples include worshipping one’s body, education, careers, cars, homes, leaders in society, entertainment and Church leaders; instead of worshipping the LORD GOD and His Son, Jesus Christ. These sacrilegious attitudes and actions of God’s people, Israel, caused Him to severely judge them. Almighty God asked the following question, through His Prophet Amos, “Can two walk together, unless they are agreed?” God’s people, Israel, were not walking with Him and they were not agreeing with God’s word that His prophet had spoken, after all that God had done for them. What will God do today for our actions/attitudes? Will God judge us as He judged Israel? Who are you walking with and agreeing with that displeases God? Are you part of the problem or part of the solution? Are you an influence for good or do you acquiesce? How does all that is going on around us daily affect the heart of our God? Look at what is happening in our families, our schools, our communities, our cities, our states, our nation and the world. Almighty God must be so disappointed in His creation. Have mercy on us, LORD GOD, and forgive us! If each of us decided to truly repent and do better, what is it that cannot be accomplished with God on our team? Romans 8:31 says, “If God is for us, who can be against us.” In Luke 1:37 God's word says, “For nothing will be impossible with God.” Let’s do an introspection and see if we need to change teams. I want to always be on God’s team, don’t you? Can two walk together and not agree? No, I can’t walk with God and not agree with His word. Can You?

HAVE YOU BLESSED THE LORD TODAY?

BARBARA E. PERKINS

HAVE YOU BLESSED THE LORD TODAY?

The Psalmist David, in Psalm 103:1-5 (NKJV), shares some key reasons to bless the LORD in the word of God. 1 “Bless the Lord, O my soul; and all that is within me, bless His holy name! 2 Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits: 3 WHO FORGIVES ALL YOUR INIQUITIES, WHO HEALS ALL YOUR DISEASES, 4 WHO REDEEMS YOUR LIFE FROM DESTRUCTION, WHO CROWNS WITH LOVINGKINDNESS AND TENDER MERCIES, 5 WHO SATISFIES YOUR MOUTH WITH GOOD THINGS, SO THAT YOUR YOUTH IS RENEWED LIKE THE EAGLE’S.” As I read and meditate on these Scriptures, I realized that these are the essential reasons why I bless the LORD. I owe it to the LORD, to bless the Him!!! I must bless the LORD because of His precious and very great promises to us in His word:

1. He forgives all my sins!

2. He heals all my diseases!

3. He redeems my life from destruction. He saved me!!!

4. He crowns me with His loving kindness and tender mercies.

5. He satisfies my mouth with good things, so that my youth is renewed. The LORD causes my mouth to be satisfied with what is good (not what is bad), so that I can be renewed in my body. Hallelujah!!!

I am never going to forget these awesome benefits that the LORD has provided for me—and you. Thank You, my LORD GOD and thank You, my Savior and Lord, Jesus Christ. To the LORD be praise, glory and honor and to His wonderful Son, Jesus Christ, forever and ever. Amen! I have to bless the LORD for His new mercies that I see and experience every day of my life. HAVE YOU BLESSED THE LORD TODAY? BLESS THE LORD!

Friday, May 3, 2019

IF MY PEOPLE WILL … Part 2

BARBARA E. PERKINS

IF MY PEOPLE WILL …

Part 2

In 2 Chronicles 7:14 (NKJV) the word of God declares, in this familiar Scripture, “If My people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land.” As we examine the principles of this Scripture, in careful introspection, are we cooperating with God? Or, are we a hindrance to the move of God in our lives? Hebrews 4:2-3 says it this way, “2 For indeed the gospel was preached to us as well as to them; BUT THE WORD WHICH THEY HEARD DID NOT PROFIT THEM, NOT BEING MIXED WITH FAITH IN THOSE WHO HEARD IT. 3 FOR WE WHO HAVE BELIEVED DO ENTER THAT REST…” God said, when we meet the four conditions/principles of 2 Chronicles 7:14 (BEING HUMBLE, PRAYING, SEEKING GOD and TURNING FROM SIN), He would follow through on His terms in the following 3 provisions: HEAR OUR PRAYERS, FORGIVE US and HEAL OUR LAND. Our land desperately needs to be healed. We are waiting on God to do something. IS GOD WAITING ON US? CAN GOD SEE OUR HUMILITY? CAN GOD SEE US PRAYING? Are we praying for the leaders of our nation, the Body of Christ, our citizens, world leaders and immigrants? ARE WE PRAYING FOR OUR OWN FAMILIES EVERYDAY? OR, ARE WE LEAVING THEM TO CHANCE? Remember 1 Peter 5:8-9, “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, SEEKING WHOM HE MAY DEVOUR. 9 Resist him, steadfast in the faith…” ARE WE SEEKING GOD’S FACE—HIS WAY OF DOING THINGS? ARE WE CHOOSING TO TURN FROM SIN? God’s word says, confess our sins to Him, He forgives (1 John 1:9-10). We have constant assurance that God can be trusted. In Numbers 23:19, God’s word says, “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?” Hebrews 6:18 also confirms God’s faithfulness declaring He cannot lie. We can count on God, but can He count on us? When God says, If my people will… As in 2 Chronicles 7:14, He is expecting us to obey His word and He has wonderful plans for our lives. Praise the LORD for His loving kindness! Now, will we be HUMBLE, PRAY, SEEK GOD, and TURN FROM SIN; so that He will heal our nation with all of its issues and yours as well?