God's Man Blog

Wow

godsman08@gmail.com (Gods Man) — Tue, 01 Sep 2015 14:09:00 +0000

This has been the busiest summer of our lives. Glad to be back on the Blogging World, stay tuned for more Bible Study material.

New Family Photos

godsman08@gmail.com (Gods Man) — Tue, 01 Sep 2015 14:07:00 +0000

Forgiveness 101

godsman08@gmail.com (Gods Man) — Wed, 17 Jun 2015 19:10:00 +0000

A couple married for 15 years began having more than usual disagreements. They wanted to make their marriage work and agreed on an idea the wife had. For one month they planned to drop a slip in a "Fault" box. The boxes would provide a place to let the other know about daily irritations. The wife was diligent in her efforts and approach: "leaving the jelly top off the jar," "wet towels on the shower floor," "dirty socks not in hamper," on and on until the end of the month. After dinner, at the end of the month, they exchanged boxes. The husband reflected on what he had done wrong. Then the wife opened her box and began reading. They were all the same, the message on each slip was, "I love you!"

That is God's forgiveness. When he sees you he doesn’t see the wrong you do he sees the spotless lamb of God who suffered, bled and died for you to know forgiveness. It's not that you don't mess up or that he just chooses not to notice but rather because you have chosen to receive Jesus' death burial and resurrection for your way of forgiveness he can no longer see you as a sinner because biblically you are covered by the blood of Jesus.

Micah 6:8

godsman08@gmail.com (Gods Man) — Wed, 13 May 2015 18:24:00 +0000

God has a plan, God has a purpose, God has a reason for your existence. More than that of taking up space and air. Why would a holy and righteous God free from defilement still continue to give life to mortals who defy God with what seems to be every fiber of their being! The Bible says that the very best we do is still as filthy rags in the sight of God, giving the idea of leprous rags with blood and puss and torn pieces of scabs. Through ourselves that's the best we could do, that's the best we could feel and experience. But God who was rich in mercy, But God who is love, but God who took upon him the form of a servant had and still has better plan for all of us and it is found in the acceptance of His son Jesus! For it is only then that we can do, feel and experience what God wants for all of us! I want to challenge you Senior, I want to challenge you Student to choose to go deeper with God! Luke 5:4 says "launch out into the deep", Genesis 49:25 says the Almighty wants to bless you with "blessings of the deep", blessing that can only be given to those who choose to go deeper!

Something you choose to do (do justly)

Something you choose to feel (love mercy)

Something you choose to experience (experience walking with God in humility)

The Bible says of these three points that they are 1) good 2) required. It seems as if God has put a cap on this in the New Testament in James 4:17 "Therefore to him that knoweth to do good and doeth it not to him it is sin" the interesting thing about that chapter is, prior to this verse it speaks of things you do, feel and experience! Choose today to DO, FEEL and EXPERIENCE the Good things God has for you!

Atheism

godsman08@gmail.com (Gods Man) — Mon, 02 Mar 2015 17:15:00 +0000

"Atheism is not a disbelief in gods or a denial of gods; it is a lack of belief in gods. Older dictionaries define atheism as "a belief that there is no God."

It is my fault... These are the thoughts that are crossing my mind right now. You may ask yourself why would anyone say that to themselves. Doesn't he know that every man is given a free choice. To that the author must answer in the affirmative so hear me out.

I believe that Atheism exist for 3 reasons.

1. Because the Devil is real.

Atheist claim that there is no proof of any God. To that I say that if you were to look around you would find that there is plenty of evil present. Why is it so hard to see that there is plenty of good too? I know what they would say, there is good, it lies within the person's mind. Oh really, why then is goodness something that we have to teach our children. It's not given to each person when they are born, goodness has to be learned... It has to be taught... So as they ponder the thought that there is NO GOD or good celestial being just because they have never experienced His love for them. They must ponder this thought there is a Devil the simple proof of that is on the nightly news.

2. Because men have been given a free choice.

It was the very God that Atheist deny that gave them the ability to choose. It takes more so called "Faith" to believe that we have evolved (although this is just a theory)(and looking to the fact that we are not continuing to evolve because we are not any smarter then the previous generation or stronger) or to believe that the earth was here by a cosmic blast (which hasn't happened since). The fact is that Atheist have no facts either they choose to blindly accept that science has everything figured out. Christians just choose to put their acceptance in a God.

"For the life of the flesh is in the blood...."

The excerpt above was taken out of the Bible which Atheist take to be a book of fairy tales of strange superstitions. Was written thousand of years before scientist were able to prove it, but they found that it was indeed a true statement. The Bible says in Isaiah 40 that the earth was round and it to wasn't proven until many years later but here again we find it to be accurate. The list of these examples are endless.

3. Because of the way Christians live.

This will be my final reason... It is my fault! For far to long we that profess to be "Christians" have lived our lives as if there was no God. We have done our own thing and made our own decisions, in turn we have made a mess of things all the while the skeptics looked on and saw us have the same problems that they dealt with and we handle them like they do. So what are they to conclude other than that we are just like them, with exception of the fact that we are superstitious. We do the right thing out of fear of a judgmental God. They do the right thing because its the right thing to do. Reader this is to our shame... We should serve God out of love not duty. We should share his story not for our own reward but for God's glory.

So in closing I would like to encourage you with this. Let's just say you have an atheist friend and you are concerned about their eternity. Would you just 1) Love them 2) Show them 3) Answer them.

1) Love them... They are already being judged by every other so called "Christian" you need to be the difference maker in their life. Love them for their personality. 2) Show them... I am going to lose most of you because you are not spiritual to get this point. Show them what it means to trust God. Let them see how you handle problems pray in front of them talk with them about what you are trusting God for in you life. 3) Answer them... The Bible (Our authority of faith and practice) says that we are to have an answer for everyone. This might mean that you have to do your homework, but when they ask you a question. Do not be afraid to answer them. They may not agree with you but then again they never have agreed with you so what have you lost.

"People matter to God and they should matter to us!"

Ten Characteristics of A New Testament Church

godsman08@gmail.com (Gods Man) — Sun, 01 Mar 2015 04:21:00 +0000

Ten Exemplary Scriptural Truths Of many that have historically been held to by New Testament Churches through the years

1. Salvation solely in the person, life, and work of Christ by grace through faith. (John 14:6; Acts 4:12; 1 Timothy 2:5-6; Ephesians 2:8-9)

By "person" is meant the two natures of Christ as God-man. By "life" is meant His perfect 33½-year life of active law-fulfilling. By "work" is meant His sacrificial death, subsequent burial, and activating resurrection.

The significance of such is that because of His unique person, life, and work, no one else is qualified to be a Saviour. He only is incarnate God. He only is Creator God-man. The God we sinned against is the One who provides salvation from His own wrath for sin.

Jesus Christ, as God, had the infinite capacity to take all the wrath of God. As God, He had the eternal continuity of existence to be the lamb slain before the foundation of the world. As deity, He had the commonality of nature with God as God to appease God, with man, as man, to represent man. As a man, He could be accountable for man before God. As man, Christ had to have a body in order to pay for the sins we committed in a body. (Isaiah 7:14; Micah 5:2; John 1:1-3; 2 Corinthians 5:19,21; Colossians 2:9; 1 Timothy 3:16; Hebrews 1:8;2:16;9:12-14; 1 Peter 2:24)

2. Security (eternal) of the believer. (Psalms 37:23-24, 28; John 3:16; 10:25-29; Romans 8:31-39; 1 Peter 1:3-5; Galatians 2:21; Hebrews 10:11-14)

Significance: Saved by grace but kept by human effort? Salvation cannot be by grace and works both – they are mutually exclusive (Romans 4:1-5; 11:6). If we didn't do anything to attain salvation how can we do anything to sustain it? How would you ever know if you had sinned away your salvation? Where is the rest promised by Jesus? When Christ said from the cross, "it is finished," He meant it! When Christ uttered those words and when He died, all of our sins were in the future!

3. The separate and equal priesthood of each believer (individual priesthood of all believers). (Romans 8:26-34; 1 Peter 2:1-10; Revelation 1:4-6; 5:9-10).

Significance: Christ was the Great High Priest and we need not the agency of any other to mediate on our behalf. He was the God-man, the only truly good man, and the great go-between man. All New Testament believers are kings and priests and have access to God through Him.

4. Scriptural baptism: (Matthew 3:13-17; 28:18-20; Acts 1:21-22; 2:37-42; 6:5-6; 8:26-40; Romans 6:1-6; 1 Corinthians 12:13; Ephesians 4:4-6; 1 Peter 3:18-22)
- Mode – Immersion in water
-Meaning – Exemplifies legal identity with the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ
-Authority – New Testament church
-Subject – Saved person

Significance: Baptism was instituted by God as an earmark of John the Baptist's ministry. Jesus Christ submitted to it verifying the legitimacy of it and of John's ministry and message. The apostles required such of the one who was to replace Judas as an apostle. We have no license to change its mode or meaning, or anything else about it that Christ put under our care-taking. Baptism does not save, but without what baptism pictures (our identity with the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ) we have no salvation. With what baptism pictures we know upon trusting Christ as Savior we walk in newness of life.

6 Ways to Get More Done

godsman08@gmail.com (Gods Man) — Wed, 25 Feb 2015 02:34:00 +0000

How to Get More Done

1. Redefine your roles regularly
2. Refocus on high priority tasks
3. Request heavenly wisdom
4. Replenish your personal strength (physical, emotional, spiritual)
5. Remember what's important
6. Refine your strengths and weaknesses

~ Author Unknown

Who is Jesus?

godsman08@gmail.com (Gods Man) — Wed, 04 Feb 2015 12:33:00 +0000

Who is Jesus?

When I woke this song was on my heart. But as I was singing it I was struck with the thought of "un-churched" people who need to hear this song may not -know it's meaning.

I mean... Lily of the Valley, Bright and Morning Star, Fairest of Ten Thousand, His Blood makes Us White, Coming Saviour... Listen to the lyrics as you read!

Everybody ought to know. (Everybody ought to know)
Everybody ought to know (Everybody ought to know)

Everybody ought to know (Everybody ought to know)

Who Jesus is.

He's the lily of the valley.
He's the brighter morning star.
He's the fairest of ten thousand.
Everybody ought to know.

Everybody ought to know. (Everybody ought to know)
Everybody ought to know (Everybody ought to know)

Everybody ought to know (Everybody ought to know)

Who Jesus is.

On the cross He died for sinners
And His blood makes white as snow
Loving, living, coming Savior
He's the One you ought to know.

Everybody ought to know. (Everybody ought to know)
Everybody ought to know (Everybody ought to know)

Everybody ought to know (Everybody ought to know)

Who Jesus is.

In the next few blog post I will give a feeble attempt to uncover the meaning behind these often overlooked lyrics, so that "we" who do "know" while be better equip to tell "those" who do not "know".

Wednesday Morning

godsman08@gmail.com (Gods Man) — Thu, 15 May 2014 11:00:00 +0000

There are some passages of scripture that are so rich it’s hard to consume it all at once. This morning as I was reading I came across this chapter, and was overwhelmed at the amount of truth, sacrifice and grace that this passage brings. The first two verses are just introduction, but even there we see important information concerning these characters. Elkanah –“God created” had two wives Peninnah and Hannah. It was apparently something along the same lines of Jacob’s wives for he loved one above the other. Although it was customary for women to gain there importance from child bearing to Elkanah, it didn’t matter if Hannah didn't meet the criteria of the (Back then) modern day woman. He loved her.

Spiritual Truth #1

God loves us, it doesn’t matter what the world thinks of us. We spend 90% of our lives trying to please those people in our lives that for the most part will be “un-please-able” which only leaves 10% of our time spent with people who love us for being ourselves.

Our Saviour

Our Parents

Our Pastor

Our Teachers

All of these (for the most part) love us for who we are but we spend our time, energy, and effort trying to please:

Our Boss

Our Friends

Our World

Our Flesh

... in which will not be pleased no matter what sacrifice you make they will just make up some other reason not to be pleased or satisfied.

Our LORD loves us for who we are and continues to love us in spite of our failures and short comings. Let us seek to please him, for in reality he is all that matters.

"I have received my all from God. Oh, that I could return my all to God." David Brainerd

5/15/14

godsman08@gmail.com (Gods Man) — Thu, 15 May 2014 10:45:00 +0000

We all have heard of the prayer of Jabez, and certainly God has used that to compel many people to

seek His face. But in Chapter 2 of 1st Samuel we see the prayer of Hannah. It's very powerful to consider, who penned this prayer. Some would say Samuel, others souls say that Hannah reminded him of her prayer, but I would submit to you that it was the Holy Spirit of God. II Peter 1:21. So as you read this prayer from God's perspective... This is what God heard Hannah say...

-And Hannah prayed, and said, My heart rejoiceth in the Lord, mine horn is exalted in the Lord : my mouth is enlarged over mine enemies; because I rejoice in thy salvation.

-There is none holy as the Lord : for there is none beside thee: neither is there any rock like our God. --Talk no more so exceeding proudly; let not arrogancy come out of your mouth: for the Lord is a God of knowledge, and by him actions are weighed.

-The bows of the mighty men are broken, and they that stumbled are girded with strength.

-They that were full have hired out themselves for bread; and they that were hungry ceased: so that the barren hath born seven; and she that hath many children is waxed feeble.

-The Lord killeth, and maketh alive: he bringeth down to the grave, and bringeth up.

-The Lord maketh poor, and maketh rich: he bringeth low, and lifteth up.

-He raiseth up the poor out of the dust, and lifteth up the beggar from the dunghill, to set them among princes, and to make them inherit the throne of glory: for the pillars of the earth are the Lord's, and he hath set the world upon them.

-He will keep the feet of his saints, and the wicked shall be silent in darkness; for by strength shall no man prevail.

-The adversaries of the Lord shall be broken to pieces; out of heaven shall he thunder upon them: the Lord shall judge the ends of the earth; and he shall give strength unto his king, and exalt the horn of his anointed. (1 Samuel 2:1-10 KJV)

What does God hear us say? How often does God hear us pray?

Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need. (Hebrews 4:16 KJV)

Not boldly like a enemy but like a son. I John 3:1

We Need Revival

godsman08@gmail.com (Gods Man) — Tue, 13 May 2014 11:00:00 +0000

Chapter 5 is basically the effects that sin has on a nation in particularly but also on individuals. Jeremiah is pouring his heart out to The Lord, and is praying for the revival of his people and Land! Let's take today to pray specifically for our nation!

There was a time, when the Spirit of God moved in a mighty way.
There was a time when the people of God, lived in a godly way.
Something's wrong, it's time to turn around.
Something's wrong, it's time to heed the sound

CHORUS
We need Revival, all across the land.
We need Revival, it's time to take a stand.
We better fall on our knees and pray and turn from our wicked ways,
We need Revival all across the land.

Now is the time and this is the place and we are the ones that must make the choice.
Now is the time, we dare not hesitate, the people of God must lift their voice.
We must be strong, in the Power of His Might.
We must be strong, this darkness needs our light.

CHORUS

We need Revival, all across the land.

We need revival, it's time to take a stand.

We better fall on our knees and pray and turn from our wicked ways,

We need Revival all across the land.

"A failure to plan is a plan to fail"

godsman08@gmail.com (Gods Man) — Mon, 12 May 2014 11:29:00 +0000

Lamentations 4 is prophetically speaking of the 2nd and final destruction of Jerusalem! Unfortunately they... Just like many of us make decisions everyday that would either draw them closer to The Lord or push him further away!!! What decisions am I making today that could possibly push God away? How about you? The days of your school year are coming to a close how do you plan to draw closer to The Lord? "A failure to plan is a plan to fail"

Lamentations 3

godsman08@gmail.com (Gods Man) — Sun, 11 May 2014 11:00:00 +0000

Lamentations 3

Verses 1- 20
It seems to me that Jeremiah is speaking some what for himself and some what for the nation of Israel. If you would notice these verses the language is all very similar, referring himself in every verse.

Verses 21-38
He begins to think rationally again. Before it was all about him, now it's all about God. When we come to that place in our life when we stop being so concerned about me, myself and I and look to the Lord. Then and only then will we see true revival.

Verses 39-66
Please note that in these verses the prophet references the Lord, Others and Himself. The true recipe for J.O.Y. is Jesus first, Others second, and Yourself last. In this particular passage, Jeremiah is crying out to God for vengeance. He wants God to take care of the enemy. Jeremiah didn't have the whole Bible like we do. What he did not know is Jesus has won the battle. The victory is ours.

Lets get our eyes off of Me, Myself and I. Turn to the Lord for help, so that we can look to a lost and dying world and cry out for them to be saved. Let's particularly pray that God would send more laborers into his harvest.

Personal Study on God's Glory

godsman08@gmail.com (Gods Man) — Sat, 03 May 2014 11:00:00 +0000

But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord. (2 Corinthians 3:18 KJV)

We have a Former Glory - The Law of Moses written on Tablets of Stone

We have a Present Glory - The Redemption through the blood of Jesus

We have a Future Glory - The Resurrection given to us in a Glorified Body

The word glory is one of those words that we filppantly toss out there as a bible believer without ever giving people an explanation... "Did I do that?" (in my Steve Urkel voice #showingmyage). Yes truth be told we do that all the time. I am guilty of throwing out Bible words which sound good to the "breathern" but to the average Christian they do not even know that some of these words are in the Bible. Only 26% of Americans claim to read their Bible on a regular basis. (Just because they read it doesn't mean they study it.)

I would like to submit a thought to you 1) Glory is something you possess. When you are born (Genesis 1:1) you were born with some small form of God's Glory. So what is GLORY. I submit to you that it is an inward glow/radiance of your inner-man that works it's way out. When we are born were are born to the image of God. We are born with a sin nature, and we corrupt the Glory of God on a daily basis, even then we still have some (although it may be little) glory in us.

Then something amazing happens we hear the story of Christ's sacrifice for us... We see our need & believe and are saved. And the "glory of God, (the person of Jesus) comes and fills our soul. And the city had no need of the sun, neither of the moon, to shine in it: for the glory of God did lighten it, and the Lamb is the light thereof. (Revelation 21:23 KJV) What have I done... I have changed from Glory to Glory.

One day in Heaven ... When Christ takes us to be with himself... Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also. (John 14:1-3 KJV) we will be changed again from Glory to Glory.

Once Condemned by the Law, then Redeemed by Grace, one day Ressurected and in Heaven with Him... From Glory to Glory.

10 Principles in Review

godsman08@gmail.com (Gods Man) — Fri, 02 May 2014 11:00:00 +0000

10 Principles

Taken from 10 Principles to Conquer Stubborn Habits / Steven Curington & Reformers Unanimous

1. If God’s Against It So Am I

2. Every Sin Has Its Origin In Our Hearts.

3. It Is Easier To Keep The Heart Clean Than It Is To Clean It After It Has Been Defiled.

4. We Cannot Fight A Fleshly Appetite By Indulging In It.

5. Small Compromises Lead To Great Disasters (otherwise known as little sins lead to big sins).

6. Those Who Do Not Love The Lord Will Not Help Us Serve The Lord.

7. Our Sinful Habits Do Hurt Those Who Are Following Us...

8. It Is Not Possible To Fleshly Temptation With Fleshly Weapons...

9. We Lose Our Freedom To Choose When We Give In To Temptation.

10. God Balances Guilt With Blame.

We Are Ministers of Truth Not Feeling.

godsman08@gmail.com (Gods Man) — Thu, 01 May 2014 11:39:00 +0000

Acts 20:24. But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God.

"We are not ministers of truth not feeling" these were the words I heard coming out of the mouth of a well known missionary. As I picked up my jaw from the floor, I was just amazed at how true that statement was.

***Side note*** Have you ever been around someone that you admire, look up to? When they say something wise you just respect them even more. That is the feeling I had whenever I heard this.

It is so true... It doesn't matter how I feel I am committed to Jesus Christ. It doesn't matter that I don't want to go to church today. I am committed to Jesus Christ. Even Paul said it doesn't matter if my back hurts from being whipped or lying on a hard prison floor. It's not about me its all about Jesus Christ and His Gospel going forth.

How does that apply to me today? If my feelings get hurt... It doesn't matter. If I am persecuted for my faith... It doesn't matter. We do not minister according to our feelings but rather because of the truth we know. W

We know that Jesus Christ has called us to be Saved, Surrendered , Separated and Serving. So get busy for the Lord.

God Balances Guilt with Blame

godsman08@gmail.com (Gods Man) — Thu, 01 May 2014 11:00:00 +0000

Principle #10

God Balances Guilt with Blame, Accept The Blame For Your Actions And God Will Remove The Guilt.

Taken from 10 Principles to Conquer Stubborn Habits / Steven Curington & Reformers Unanimous

As a young man trying to get away from the strongholds of my addictions, I sought the counsel and help of people in secular programs. Time and time again, they searched for hidden meaning in my behavior. They explained how my rebellion and desire to please myself was most assuredly to be blamed on my parents, that I had been forced into my sin by what they referred to as bad surroundings. Many in society today are teaching us to shift the blame for our short comings on our parents, our upbringing, our economic background, our race, our minority status and many other things. By shifting the blame to others, it temporarily removes the guilt.

You see, God designed us with a spiritual equilibrium. When we commit sin, we experience guilt and it throws our spirit off balance with our emotions. When society teaches us to shift the blame (or if we naturally shift the blame), we actually can circumvent that off balance feeling of guilt temporarily.

However, when we the sin returns, the guilt is so much worse. Our feelings of failure increase to even higher levels. God’s design is to administer guilt through His Spirit that lives within the believer. That guilt needs to be released and God designed a formula for that to happen. It is found in 1 John 1:9 If we confess our sin, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. What a beautiful promise! If, big word... If we do, He will. If we don’t, He won’t!!! If we confess (proclaim to God) our sin, He is faithful (for sure, 100% of the time over and over again) to forgive (full pardon) our sins. He doesn’t stop there. You see, we have been pardoned for our wrong doing but we are not cleaned from it. We still have the guilty feeling. We must be cleansed from all unrighteousness.

If my daughter got dressed for Sunday School and them went outside and fell in the mud, I would not only forgive her for playing outside when it was raining and she was dressed for Sunday School. I would also clean her. I would give her a bath and all new clothes. Why? Because when I bring her to Sunday School, I don’t want anyone to know that she fell in the mud!!! That is what God wants to do for us. He wants to give us full pardon for everything we’ve done in the past and he wants to clean us up and put us in a new set of clothes. And He is faithful! That means he wants to do this every time we sin against him. He loves us that much.

So, today, accept the blame for what you have done in you life. Confess it to God and he will clean you up!!! Praise God!!!

Taken from 10 Principles to Conquer Stubborn Habits / Steven Curington & Reformers Unanimous

We Lose Our Freedom to Choose, When We Give In To Temptation.

godsman08@gmail.com (Gods Man) — Wed, 30 Apr 2014 11:00:00 +0000

Principle #9

We Lose Our Freedom to Choose, When We Give In To Temptation.

Our consequences are inevitable and incalculable and up to God.

Taken from 10 Principles to Conquer Stubborn Habits / Steven Curington & Reformers Unanimous

When we first take hold of a vice It Is extremely pleasurable. At times, it may seem to be the only time we feel happy, the only time we experience any comfort in our lives. However, the Bible warns in Proverbs 20:17 “bread of deceitful is sweet to a man: but afterwards his mouth shall be filled with gravel”. You can clearly see that while deceitful and wrong actions may be bring temporary pleasure, afterwards it leaves a very bad taste in your mouth. The consequences for your behavior then belong to God, Proverbs 9:17-18 indicates that “stolen waters are sweet and bread eaten in secret is pleasant. But he knoweth not that the dead were you; and that her guests are in the deaths of hell.” Unknown man did all the rows-one and hate it is the lead roles told us that she started all the continent that No matter how much enjoyment we may receive from our stubborn habits or addiction, we can be sure that the consequences are never worth it.

We must realize that God is watching us. He watches every single thing we do. Proverbs 5:21 says “... For the ways of man are before the eyes of the LORD, and he pondereth all his goings”. That word “ponders” means to weigh or consider. What does he consider? He considers the proper actions that should be taken against our behavior to bring a proper reaction from us. His desire is for repentance and a dependence on Him, rather than on some vice that only brings temporal advice. Look at the warning that is given in the very next verse and ask yourself if you are in this position... Verse 22 His own iniquities shall take the wicked himself and he shall be holden with the cords of his sins. This verse clearly indicates that once we grab hold of a wicked vice that it will begin to wrap itself around us. Though, at the beginning we may be able to get out of its hold, eventually, the cord will be tightened around us and we will be held in bondage with the cords of our sin. Oh, how that is what happened to me! Next is the important warning to those of us who struggle to fight back. The next verse...23 He shall die without instruction; and in the greatness of his folly he shall go astray. This consequence (going astray, which leads to a premature physical and spiritual death) cannot be monitored by us. It is determined by God. Until that unfortunate time that we experience this untimely demise, we will live among consequences that are designed to bring us back to God.

The cure... very simple, Isaiah 55:7 Let the wicked forsake his way (#1), and the unrighteous man his thoughts (#2): and let him return unto the LORD (#3) and he will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon. We need God’s mercy (not getting what we deserve). We need God’s pardon (penalty removed for what we’ve done) so that we may start over. That is accomplished by simply turning from our way of doing things and from our way of thinking and returning to the Lord. Reformers Unanimous is here to show you how to do this. I hope you listen to what God has to say to you. God Bless.

Taken from 10 Principles to Conquer Stubborn Habits / Steven Curington & Reformers Unanimous

It Is Impossible to Fight a Fleshly Temptation with Fleshly Weapons...

godsman08@gmail.com (Gods Man) — Tue, 29 Apr 2014 11:00:00 +0000

Principle #8

It Is Impossible to Fight a Fleshly Temptation with Fleshly Weapons...

Taken from 10 Principles to Conquer Stubborn Habits / Steven Curington & Reformers Unanimous

Oh so many times we have lost students either temporarily or permanently because they believed the lie of the devil that the world had something to offer their recovery. Whether it be the patch, secular counseling, evacuation of childhood, methadone, Prozac, or many other fleshly (worldly)weapon that is intended to curb our stubborn habits and inappropriate behavior, it will not (WILL NOT) cure us of our affliction.

Praise God, the battle is inside of us and that is exactly where Christ has chosen to take up residence in our lives! You see, the battle cannot be won with a fleshly (worldly) weapon because the battle is spiritual.

2Corintians 10:3-5 For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh: (For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;) Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ;

It is simple to believe but hard to apply. Whenever we have a stubborn thought, we must cast it down. Remember, as a man thinks in his heart, so is he... Principle #2 says every sin has its origin in our hearts. It is our responsibility to protect our hearts with all diligence because out of the heart are the issues of life. If there is going to be any good or anything worth commending come out of our lives, we must first concentrate on things that are true, honest, just, lovely, pure, and of a good report (Phil 4:8).

To avoid a habitual action or reaction to your negative thoughts you must cast down the thought and bring your mind under subjection to the obedience of Christ. You will have a lot of help with this, you see, because... 1 John 4:4 Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you than he that is in the world.

The world has nothing to offer you in your quest for recovery. You can believe what you are reading or you can try the world for yourself. But with Christ, all things are possible, if you only believe.

Taken from 10 Principles to Conquer Stubborn Habits / Steven Curington & Reformers Unanimous

Word to the Wise

godsman08@gmail.com (Gods Man) — Mon, 28 Apr 2014 19:59:00 +0000

“Sometimes when we read the words of those who have been more than conquerors, we feel almost despondent. I feel that I shall never be like that. But they won through step by step, by little bits of wills, little denials of self, little inward victories, by faithfulness in very little things. They became what they are. No one sees these little hidden steps. They only see the accomplishment, but even so, those small steps were taken. There is no sudden triumph, no spiritual maturity. That is the work of the moment.”—Amy Carmichael

Our Sinful Habits Do Hurt Those Who Follow Us...

godsman08@gmail.com (Gods Man) — Mon, 28 Apr 2014 11:00:00 +0000

Principle #7

Our Sinful Habits Do Hurt Those Who Follow Us...

Taken from 10 Principles to Conquer Stubborn Habits / Steven Curington & Reformers Unanimous

Have you ever wondered if anybody cared? Have you ever thought about trying something drastic to get yourself noticed? “Maybe then they would know I needed their help!”, you might say.

One of the lies from the father of lies (the devil) is that no one is watching or caring, so no one is affected by our behavior. Since the dawn of time he has deceived us into believing that our behavior will only affect, hurt or damage ourselves. He did it in the beginning with Eve. Little did she know that her sin would then be shared by her husband, which in turn would lead to the fall of man and woman. Little did she know that a cruse would be placed on herself and her husband and all generations to follow.

The devil deceived in the life of Lot. Not realizing that having day to day contact with sinners was damaging to his family he stubbornly left his homeland. His lack of leadership over his family led to the death of his wife and uncontrolled behavior by his daughters and himself.

The devil deceived in the life of David. Little did David know that if he stayed home from battle (where he belonged at the time) that he would suffer a temptation that would lead to adultery. The consequence: would be a woman who would lose her husband to a plot of murder and her son would die as a newborn infant. Over and over again in scripture we see that sinful behavior has a profound effect on those who follow us.

Who, pray tell, are the ones who follow you? That is simple: Those whose lives are spent in relationship with yours. If you died today, would you have 100 people at you funeral? Most people would like to think so. How about 50? Or 35? Or 20? How about one? Would you have at least one person at your funeral? Yes, I believe we would all have at least one and probably closer to 100. Well, whether they actually say it to you or not, those are the people you hurt with your behavior. Those are the people affected by sinful habit. They may not feel the pain you feel, but they feel pain. They may not say the things to you that you need said that will help you, but they think them and wish they could find the courage to say them.

Romans 14:7 says... For none of us liveth to himself, and no man dieth to himself. Your life affects others the same way your death would affect others. Choose today to let your life have a profound effect of good on others. No matter the cost. No matter the sacrifice. Make the choice. Today and tomorrow and onward from this point your good habits will help those who follow you. Choose today to be a regular learner at Church. Choose to read your Bible. Choose to talk to God in prayer. Choose to arm yourself with memorized Bible verses to overcome. Choose today to be helpful to those who come to Reformers. Choose today to make a difference in the lives of your congregation, the lives of your community a difference in the Kingdom of God, Amen.

Taken from 10 Principles to Conquer Stubborn Habits / Steven Curington & Reformers Unanimous

Devotional Thoughts

godsman08@gmail.com (Gods Man) — Mon, 28 Apr 2014 10:45:00 +0000

Joshua 13:1 Now Joshua was old and stricken in years; and the LORD said unto him, Thou art old and stricken in years, and there remaineth yet very much land to be possessed.

No matter how long you live there will still be more victories to be won. It is my desire to fight the spiritual battles. Joshua was old, if anybody had an excuse to hang up his hat it was Joshua. Lord help me never to give up fighting the battles of life. Whatever my age...Whatever my condition...

Devotional Thoughts

godsman08@gmail.com (Gods Man) — Sun, 27 Apr 2014 11:37:00 +0000

Joshua 10

Is it just me or are you jealous too?

I want to experience this kind of great victory in my life. But the fact of the matter is that most of us never have to face these huge wars but rather we face many daily battles. I must be sure that I walk in the Spirit every day. I need God to help me make those small but meaningful decisions.
I want to experience this kind of great courage in my life. Look at the contrast between verse 2 and verse 8... Jerusalem (Not yet a city of Israel) was scared because of the Israelite army and God told Joshua fear not I have delivered them into your hand... The difference was the presence of God. Let me remind you it makes all the difference in the world.

I am so excited that Jesus died and won the ultimate victory in my life and if I allow him to live in me and I in him he will bring about the same victory in my/your life that He did for Joshua. Just a couple of thoughts to encourage you in your walk with Christ

Those Who Do Not Love the Lord Will Not Help Us Serve the Lord

godsman08@gmail.com (Gods Man) — Sun, 27 Apr 2014 11:00:00 +0000

Principle #6

Those Who Do Not Love the Lord Will Not Help Us Serve the Lord

Taken from 10 Principles to Conquer Stubborn Habits / Steven Curington & Reformers Unanimous

Joh 15:19 If ye were of the world, the world would love his own: but because ye are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you

Will my friends want anything to do with me now that I am a Christian? That was the question I asked after I gave my life to Jesus. It wasn’t long before I found the answer....if I acted like them, they would accept me. When I acted like Christ, they would reject me.

I struggled to determine the correct path. You see, I wanted Christ in my life but I also wanted Christ in my friends lives. If I broke my ties with my worldly friends’, they would lose their opportunity to learn of Christ. So I tried to live as a child of God while hanging out with the devil’s kid. As you would expect, more often than not, they would tempt me to do the things that I did not want to do anymore. Eventually, I would give in.

It was at this time God showed me why misery loves company. You see, if I lived right and remained tight, my old friends would feel guilt and shame for their behavior. But if I lived wrong, they would prove that Christ had no affect on a person’s life. The guilt for their lifestyle would be removed. They would lay a snare (temptation) and wait for me to fall. Proverbs 24:15 says “Lay not wait, O wicked man, against the swelling of the righteous; spoil no his resting place;” They would work hard to lure me back into the world. The wanted to see that the Christian life doesn’t work!

I found that when I got right and stayed right that they went left. However, when the law of sowing and reaping would kick in and they found themselves at the bottom, they would not look to their friends who did the things they did. Rather, they called on me. They would ask me what I did to change my life because my change was real. Others were not, what a blessing! I have been able to counsel with literally dozens of friend’s form the past, in God’s timing, and tell them the Christ died for their sins. It has also led to prosperity in my Christian life and blessed happiness. Just like the Bible promises in Psalm 1:1-3

Psalm 1:1-3 Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful.

But his delight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night.

And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper.

Don’t Forget it... THOSE WHO DO NOT LOVE THE LORD WILL NOT HELP YOU SERVE THE LORD!

Taken from 10 Principles to Conquer Stubborn Habits / Steven Curington & Reformers Unanimous

Small Compromises Lead to Great Disasters

godsman08@gmail.com (Gods Man) — Sat, 26 Apr 2014 11:00:00 +0000

Principle #5

Small Compromises Lead to Great Disasters

(otherwise known as little sins lead to big sins)

Taken from 10 Principles to Conquer Stubborn Habits / Steven Curington & Reformers Unanimous

So many students and friends of the ministry have asked me questions like these, “Brother Steve, I have stayed away from old friends, I have stopped acting the way I used to, I even go to church at least once a week, but still ended up engaging in my addiction. why doesn’t this work?” Such a difficult question to the student but such an easy answer from God.

I’ll usually ask him where they are in the Bible reading, scripture memory, prayer life, midweek service attendants, witnessing, and what they’re doing for service to the Kingdom (bus route, cleaning church, nursery work, helping others, etc.). Without fail, they have fallen away in almost everything. Oddly enough they have fallen way for only 2 to 3 weeks... And bang! The devil acquires a foothold.

How does this happen? Well, here’s God’s easy answer... (Read Luke 16:10) God says if we are consistent (faithful) and all the little things (questions asked earlier), we will be consistent (Faithful) in the big things (remaining victorious). However, if inconsistent in the little things, we will fail in the big things. The reason is simple: God loves the little things. You see, the list of small things determines your master. You cannot serve God and earthly lust. (Read Matthew 6:24)You will have no choice but to love one and hate the other. The more you do for God, the more you will learn to love him. (Why do we love him, because he first loved us!)

Remember this: small compromises lead to great disaster. You may compromise your Bible reading or church attendance or service requirements now, but the consequences are guaranteed to the great. If you’re not yielding yourself to the little request of God, you will yield yourself to the little request of your enemy. And him alone will you serve. Romans 6:16 Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourself servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness?

Commit today to the little things every day. You’ll never read your Bible every day until you’ve read your Bible on the days you don’t want to. God bless.

Taken from 10 Principles to Conquer Stubborn Habits / Steven Curington & Reformers Unanimous