Touching Liveswith James Merritt

DAILY DEVOTIONAL EMAIL

Subscribe to receive the daily devotional from Dr. James Merritt
right into your inboxSUBSCRIBE

Honest Prayers

March 5, 2021

How long, Lord, must I call for help, but you do not listen? Or cry out to you, “Violence!” but you do not save? (Habakkuk 1:2)

In the book of Habakkuk, we see that the prophet Habakkuk realizes his people are in deep trouble. They disregarded God’s word. They disobeyed God’s law. He has been praying for God to do something, but instead of his prayer becoming a solution, it had become a problem. He had been praying to God for a long time. Week after week, month after month, year after year, he had been crying out to God. His frustration was now at Code Red. In fact, this is what makes Habakkuk a different kind of prophet from every other prophet in the Old Testament.

Normally, a prophet confronts his people, but Habakkuk confronts God. He is contending with God. He is more upset with God’s indifference than he is with his people’s iniquity. It is almost as if he basically says to God, “I know you aren’t dead, but are you deaf?”

Have you ever had the experience of praying about something and praying about it hard and long? Praying about it with all the faith that you could muster? Thinking it was a no-brainer for God to hear you and to answer you and to do what you wanted, and you got no response? Then, you know exactly what Habakkuk was going through.

So follow Habakkuk’s example if you are frustrated with God, and tell Him what’s bothering you. Because guess what? He knows you are anyway. Are you questioning God? Go ahead and question him. He knows what you are asking any way. God can handle your questions, your frustrations, and your doubts, and He wants the opportunity to do so when you contend with Him.

Dear Father, thank you for this reminder that you know what’s on my heart even before I tell you. Give me the faith and the boldness to continue coming to you in prayer, even when I’m left waiting. Help me not to doubt that you hear me, but rather be confident that you’re listening and working in ways I can’t see. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Topics: Prayer

Bible Reference

Habakkuk 1:2

O LORD, how long shall I cry for help, and you will not hear? Or cry to you “Violence!” and you will not save?

• About
• Contact Us
• Jobs
• Pastor Resources
• Prayer Request
• Privacy Policy

Copyright © 2019 Touching Lives, Inc. | 1800 Satellite Blvd, Duluth, GA 30097 | United States | 770-982-0168 
Touching Lives is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization

Touching Liveswith James Merritt

DAILY DEVOTIONAL EMAIL

Subscribe to receive the daily devotional from Dr. James Merritt
right into your inboxSUBSCRIBE

Fighting with Faith

March 3, 2021

“For we know that our old self was crucified with Him so that the body ruled by sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves to sin – because anyone who has died has been set free from sin.” Romans 6:6-7

“A garden is a grand teacher. It teaches patience and careful watchfulness; it teaches industry and thrift; above all it teaches entire trust.” – Gertrude Jekyll

Throughout the New Testament, God’s ways are likened to those of a gardener. And in the garden of God, whatever dies produces fruit (John 12:24, John 15:2). Also found throughout the New Testament is the truth that believers have died with Christ and received new life in Him (Romans 6:6, Galatians 2:20, Colossians 3:3). The “old self,” or “flesh,” has been crucified with Christ. But what does that mean?

Obviously believers have not literally stopped breathing, died, and been physically resurrected. The “old self” is the person who used to rebel against God. It is the “me” who used to trust my own strength, feelings, and wisdom instead of God’s. It is the old me who did nothing out of faith…even “good things.” Therefore, that person never pleased God because it is impossible to do so without faith (Hebrews 11:6).

Romans 6:6-7 says that this death has freed us from sin. And yet, we still sin…often even struggling with the same sin over and over. So how do we live this life of freedom? We must go to war with sin. But the key to victory is not legalism; it is faith. So how do we fight sin with faith?

Out of all the armor that God gives us to fight Satan (Ephesians 6:10-17), only one piece is used for killing – the Sword of the Spirit. And when it comes to fighting sin, killing is the goal every time. The Sword of the Spirit is the Word of God. So how does faith fit in? Romans 10:17 says that faith comes by hearing the Word of God. The Word of God reminds us of what is true. When we are tempted to sin, God’s Word cuts through the lie that a temporary pleasure can fulfill us or bring lasting happiness. The Word beckons us to trust God and His promise of lasting joy.

Dear Lord, I know the only way I’m going to be able to fight against sin and temptation is with your Word and your truth. Help me to run to you by spending time in your Word each day so that I’m equipped for battle. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Topics: Faith

Bible Reference

Romans 6:6-7

We know that our old self was crucified with him in order that the body of sin might be brought to nothing, so that we would no longer be enslaved to sin.For one who has died has been set free from sin.

John 12:24

John 15:2

Galatians 2:20

Colossians 3:3

Hebrews 11:6

Ephesians 6:10-17

Romans 10:17

• About
• Contact Us
• Jobs
• Pastor Resources
• Prayer Request
• Privacy Policy

Copyright © 2019 Touching Lives, Inc. | 1800 Satellite Blvd, Duluth, GA 30097 | United States | 770-982-0168 
Touching Lives is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization

Free eBook: Getting Through the Storms in Life Toggle navigation Search Browse The Bible Toggle Dropdown Search The Bible Find it! Christian, “As Iron Sharpens Iron,” You Can Influence Others for the Better Bethany Verrett 2021 1 Mar Within the Old Testament, there are many nuggets of wisdom to take in, with whole books dedicated to the subject. The wisest man to ever walk the earth, King Solomon, wrote several books, including Proverbs. Many of these proverbs come in poetic form; some of them are long, symbolic narratives, while others are brief couplets full of truth. One such statement is, “Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another” (Proverbs 27:17). Sometimes these metaphoric statements can be difficult to understand, especially when they are taken out of context. Most Christians thinkers believe this statement relates to having a good friend, honesty that improves one’s character and calls out sin in a loving way; though there are some who believe it refers to someone who brings down another, and argue it is a negative statement. Either way, this statement highlights the important truth that people affect one another, words and actions define relationships for better or worse, and they change people, so people need to act accordingly. What Is the Context of Proverbs 27? Proverbs 27 falls towards the end of the book, as there are 31 chapters. It is grouped with several other chapters which are labelled as having been written by King Solomon, the son of David and the builder of the temple, copied later by men who worked for King Hezekiah of Judah. Solomon’s reign was around 970-931 BC, while Hezekiah’s was from 715-686 BC, two centuries later. The verses in Proverbs are full of advice, many of which are about positive and negative interactions and behaviors. Some examples include: “Let another praise you and not your own mouth; a stranger, and not your own lips” (Proverbs 27:2). “Better is open rebuke than hidden love” (Proverbs 27:5). “As in water face reflects face, so the heart of man reflects the man” (Proverbs 27:19). “Sheol and Abaddon are never satisfied, and never satisfied are the eyes of man” (Proverbs 27:20). In the middle of these verses is, “iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.” However, the back half is sometimes given as, ‘…sharpens the face of another.’ Like many of the Proverbs, it uses metaphor to make its point. Photo credit: ©Getty Images/MangoStar_Studio What Does This Verse Mean? When creating a metal blade, it is often sharpened, and then maintained through its life, by dragging it against a harder metal. Without this maintenance, a blade will become dull and less useful. During the life of Solomon, many weapons, pieces of armor, and tools were made of iron. It would not have been a highly refined version of metal, like steel. It was also not necessarily consistent in how hard or soft it was. A tool would have been sharpened, ground against something harder, to make it smoother, remove deformities, and maintain its ability to cut. When iron is scraped against another material in this way, it becomes more refined. The metaphor in the first half of the verse refers to a common practice with which many would have been familiar. The second half of the verse explains the metaphor. Like a piece of hard iron will sharpen another piece of iron, the interactions between two people will shape and change one another. Most scholars and theologians interpret this changing as a refinement of character. Being in the presence of a strong believer can help refine another person. Earlier verses in the chapter reflect this idea, “Better is open rebuke than hidden love. Faithful are the wounds of a friend; profuse are the kisses of an enemy” (Proverbs 27:5-6). An honest acquaintance will lovingly address when someone they care about is doing something wrong or struggling with a decision.  It is also in alignment with philosophies of behavior encouraged in the New Testament; “Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing” (1 Thessalonians 5:11). Calling out sin, encouraging each other, and lifting one another up in prayer are all ways of sharpening one another. Like both metals are altered by the sharpening process, both believers who interact with one another have an impact on each other. If a believer disciples another, they grow as well. Their understanding of the Bible can grow, they can deepen their relationship with God, and have new experiences. Some note that sometimes these relationships can have negative impacts on one another. People pour into someone, and can give too much. One person can introduce the other to a bad habit. A minority of scholars argue this negative interpretation is more biblically accurate. For example, Ronald Giese argues, “…the biblical evidence for parts of a face that are ‘sharp’ suggests a more negative reading for sharp eyes or a sharp tongue show an intent to do violence or bring about destruction.” Essentially, the use of the Hebrew word, translated sharp in this verse – יָ֑חַד – is used elsewhere to connote scheming or ill intent. An example of how this word is used somewhere else in the Old Testament is, “‘Son of man, prophesy and say, Thus says the Lord, say: ‘A sword, a sword is sharpened and also polished, sharpened for slaughter, polished to flash like lightning!’” (Ezekiel 21:9-10a). It is an interesting interpretation, and does align with the idea the verse is about. However, most scholars argue the impact is for the better.  Photo credit: ©Getty Images/Rawpixel Where Else in the Bible Do We See Believers Strengthening One Another? God wants Christians to challenge one another, and strengthen the community in love as a family, because they are all the sons and daughters of God. In the New Testament, particularly in the epistles, the writers put a particular emphasis on it. Some of these verses include: “Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear” (Ephesians 4:29). “So then let us pursue what makes for peace for mutual upbuilding” (Romans 14:19). “But exhort one another everyday, as long as it is called ‘today’, that none of you may be hardened by the deceitfulness of sin” (Hebrews 3:13). “Is anyone among you suffering? Let him pray. Is anyone cheerful? Let him sing praise” (James 5:13). “But you, beloved, building yourselves up in your most holy faith and praying in the Holy Spirit, keep yourselves in the love of God, waiting for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ that leads to eternal life” (Jude 1:20-21). “My brothers, if anyone among you wanders from the truth and someone brings him back, let him know that whoever brings back a sinner from his wandering will save his soul from death and will cover a multitude of sins” (James 5:19-20). How Can We Sharpen One Another Today?  These many ways of lifting one another up mentioned in the Bible still apply today. Singing songs to God together, reading the Word, and praying for one another is a great start. Learning more about one another so as to help each other in their specific weaknesses is a way to be supportive, and grow stronger in character. Availability is so important. Many serve one another by providing meals, time, and energy in each other’s daily lives. This builds trust, meaning believers can challenge each other in more personal ways, such as about deeply rooted sin. For those who believe this verse is a warning, it reminds believers to be careful about what habits they pick up from others, and to guard their hearts. Regardless of whether someone subscribes to the idea that sharpening improves a thing, or makes it worse, this verse emphasizes how actions and words have consequences, and affect others. People do not live in a vacuum, and the way they are treated will leave a lasting impact. Sources Ford, Errick. Iron Sharpens Iron Wisdom for the Ages. Mustang: Tate Publishing & Enterprises, 2010. Giese, Ronald L. ““Iron Sharpens Iron” as a Negative Image: Challenging the Common Interpretation of Proverbs 27:17.” Journal of Biblical Literature 135, no. 1 (2016): 61-76. Accessed February 23, 2021. doi:10.15699/jbl.1344.2016.2997. MacArthur, John. The MacArthur Study Bible. New York City: Harper Collins Publishing, 2015. Photo credit: ©Getty Images/crossstudio Bethany Verrett is a freelance writer and editor. She maintains a faith and lifestyle blog graceandgrowing.com, where she muses about the Lord, life, culture, and ministry. Bible / Bible Study / Topical Studies Share Tweet Save Popular Articles Jesus’ Incredible Request on the Cross: “Father, Forgive Them” Dave Jenkins How Can All Things Work Together for Good When There Is Suffering in the World? Aaron Brown Embrace the Faith of Enoch, a Man Who Never Died Dave Jenkins A Picture of Our Need and God’s Compassion in the Life of Absalom Meg Bucher Who Was Isaac and Why Was He So Important? Dave Jenkins 8 Lessons from Jacob’s Ladder to Encourage and Challenge You Dave Jenkins Featured Verse Topics Healing Bible Verses Worry and Anxiety Bible Verses Prayer Bible Verses Bible Verses for Overcoming Grief Comforting Bible Verses Bible Verses About Protection God’s Promises – Verses in the Bible Bible Verses For Faith in Hard Times Encouraging Bible Verses Hope Bible Verses Friendship Bible Verses Forgiveness Bible Verses Strength Bible Verses Love Bible Verses Inspirational Bible Verses About Online Bible Sitemap Link to Us Advertise with Us Feedback Proud member of Salem Media Group. Copyright © 2021, Bible Study Tools. All rights reserved. Article Images Copyright © 2021 Getty Images unless otherwise indicated. California – Do Not Sell My Personal Information  California – CCPA Notice

Touching Liveswith James Merritt

DAILY DEVOTIONAL EMAIL

Subscribe to receive the daily devotional from Dr. James Merritt
right into your inboxSUBSCRIBE

The Joy of His Presence

March 2, 2021

“Surely You have granted him unending blessings and made him glad with the joy of Your presence.” Psalm 21:6

There are days when joy is strewn along life’s path, shining in the sun. In times like these it is easy to be content. All seems right and feelings of happiness flood our souls. Truthfully, these seasons of life don’t require much faith, do they? How hard is it to trust in the goodness of God when His ways feel…well, good.

There are other days that are dark and gloomy. The sun hides behind dark clouds, mocking our faith. It’s as if we can almost hear the Serpent back in the Garden of Eden whispering, “Did God really say….?” Joy doesn’t come so easy in these seasons, does it? These are the times when we must choose joy. These are also the times, if we choose wisely, that our faith grows the most.

As Christians, we must never fall for the trick of preferring the easy above the eternal. In the midst of hard times it is sometimes hard to remember that His ways are higher. But perspective changes everything. If we were somehow able to rise above our circumstances and see God’s big picture, we would gladly endure whatever temporary trials were necessary to make us more like His Son.

So how can we gain this eternal perspective? One way is by the practice of finding joy in God’s presence. The more time we spend intentionally seeking God, the more aware we will grow of His presence. And when we learn to find joy in His presence, we are well on our way to living the abundant life that God desires for all of His children.

Dear Father, thank you for this reminder that true joy only comes from you and your presence. Keep this truth in the forefront of my mind, especially when I go searching for joy in other places. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Topics: Joy

Bible Reference

Psalm 21:6

For you make him most blessed forever; you make him glad with the joy of your presence.

• About
• Contact Us
• Jobs
• Pastor Resources
• Prayer Request
• Privacy Policy

Copyright © 2019 Touching Lives, Inc. | 1800 Satellite Blvd, Duluth, GA 30097 | United States | 770-982-0168 
Touching Lives is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization

Verse of the Day ▼
Devotions ▼

Home Verse Of The Day Revelation 20:6

◄ What Does Revelation 20:6 Mean? ►
Blessed and holy is the one who has a part in the first resurrection; over these the second death has no power, but they will be priests of God and of Christ and will reign with Him for a thousand years.

Revelation 20:6(NASB)

Verse Thoughts
The resurrection of the body is a blessed biblical truth that is often overlooked or misunderstood. Man is a tripartite being, made up of spirit, soul, and body. We are born dead in trespasses and sins but our human spirit is resurrected – or made alive at the point of our salvation. After salvation, throughout our entire Christian life, our soul is being made new through a process of practical sanctification… as day by day our soul-life is gradually being conformed into the image and likeness of the Lord Jesus as we grow in grace and mature in the faith. And one day we will be like Him, reflecting His beautiful, eternal, righteous life in every way. One day we shall see Him as He is.

But our bodies are also going to be changed, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump. The dead in Christ will be raised incorruptible and the living will be bodily caught up together with them in the clouds. We are saved, spirit (at salvation), soul (through the process of sanctification), and body (at the Rapture). However, there are not three salvations – but one. Salvation occurs when we are born again into God’s family, Who gives us an assurance that we are saved spirit, soul, and body. Our justification (spiritual salvation), sanctification (soul’s salvation), and glorification (bodily salvation), is ‘yes’ and ‘amen’ in Christ Jesus our Saviour.

Although there is one salvation, which embraces us, spirit, soul, and body, the Bible mentions two resurrections 1) the resurrection of the just and 2) the resurrection of the wicked. 1) the resurrection of the saved and 2) the resurrection of the unsaved. 1) the resurrection of saints and 2) the resurrection of the damned. Both saved and unsaved men are resurrected… but their eternal destinies are very different. The destiny of the believer is eternal life, which was secured at the Cross of Calvary and made a reality by faith. But the destiny of the unsaved is finalised at the Great White Throne Judgement, where they will experience the second death.

The Bible identifies and explains these two ‘deaths’. Every man experiences the first death, which is a physical death, but only those that are part of the second resurrection – the resurrection of the wicked, will experience the second death. It is unbelievers who did not trust in Christ for their salvation who are part of the second resurrection… and they will experience the second death.

Jesus was the first Man who tasted death – and by His death He destroyed the power of the second death over all who would believe on His name. Having shed His precious blood on our account, He was resurrected from the dead in a body of flesh and bone. Jesus was the first-fruit from the dead and all who trust in Him will partake in the first resurrection, with a body of flesh and bone. Those who are part of the first resurrection will not be hurt by the second death.

There are a number of groups that are part of the first resurrection, 1) Jesus Christ.  2) The New Testament Church. 3) The Tribulation Saints. 4) The Old Testament Saints. 5) The Millennial believers. All are part of the first resurrection because all have been justified, by faith. And Paul tells us that each will be resurrected in his own order, “Christ the first fruits. After that.. those who are Christ’s at His coming (the Church). Then comes the end (the Tribulation and 1000 year reign of Christ) when He hands over the kingdom to God and Father, when He has abolished all rule and all authority and power. For He must reign until He has put all His enemies under His feet. The last enemy that will be abolished is death.”

YES! The very next group in line for the ‘first resurrection’ after Jesus are US – New Testament, Church-age saints! Both the dead in Christ and all living believers will participate in the ‘first resurrection’ when Christ comes in the clouds to take us to our heavenly home. We will meet Jesus in the air and be taken into heaven at the Rapture which occurs before the seven-year Tribulation. As part of the Bride of Christ, we have the privilege of being made kings and priests. And by grace through faith, we will rule and reign with Him for 1000 years. 

The resurrection of the Tribulation Saints and the Old Testament Saints will occur at the end of the Tribulation period at Christ’s Second Coming, and Millennial believers will be resurrected after the Millenium.

It is the Tribulation Saints about whom Revelation 20:6 is written, “Blessed and holy is the one who has a part in the first resurrection; over these the second death has no power, but they will be priests of God and of Christ. And they will reign with Him for a thousand years.” Martyred saints who trusted in the Lamb of God during the Great Tribulation, the time of Jacob’s Trouble, will be given certain privileges as outlined in this verse. They are going to be raised incorruptible, having received everlasting life and will serve in the Temple of God for 1000-years, as priests of God and of Christ.

It is wonderful to know that all who have trusted God and believed on the Lord Jesus Christ will take part in this glorious ‘first resurrection’ but how sombre to realise that all who have rejected God’s offer of salvation will have to take part in the ‘second resurrection’ and will have to face the second death – the lake of fire and eternal separation from their long-suffering God and gracious Saviour. May God have mercy on them while there is still time.

My Prayer
Heavenly Father, it is a sober thought to realise that all who reject God’s offer of salvation will take part in the second resurrection and have to face the Great White Throne Judgement and the second death. I pray that You would use me in the time that we have left to witness of the glorious gospel of the grace of God – that Christ died for our sins, was buried, and rose again, so that whosoever believes on Him would not perish but take part in the first resurrection and receive life everlasting. This I ask in Jesus’ name, AMEN.

◄ Previous: Revelation 20:4 Next: Revelation 20:11 ►
Choose a Verse from Revelation 20
123456789101112131415

Psalm 103:5

Luke 2:10

1 John 1:2

Deuteronomy 6:6
Follow us

Revelation 20:6 Further Study
Revelation 20:6 in the Parallel Bible
Revelation 20:6 in the Thematic Bible
Revelation 20:6 Cross References
Revelation 20:6 Treasury of Scripture Knowing
Revelation 20:6 Sermons
Revelation 20:6 Prayers
Revelation 20:6 Images
Choose Chapter
Subscribe to the Verse of the day

Today’s Devotionals

The Release of the Lord

Galatians 5:22

Exodus 17:15

Sovereign Providence

The Undeviating Question

God, My Helper (Study In God – All I Need-16)

Don’t Be Anxious – He Cares
Doctrinal Statement / Privacy Policy / Use of Pictures / Donate / Contact Us
© Copyright [2011 – 2021] Knowing-Jesus.com – All Rights Reserved

×

Source: https://dailyverse.knowing-jesus.com/revelation-20-6

Verse of the Day ▼
Devotions ▼

Home Verse Of The Day Romans 4:4

◄ What Does Romans 4:4 Mean? ►
Now to the one who works, his wage is not credited as a favor, but as what is due.

Romans 4:4(NASB)

Verse Thoughts
The important message that Paul is sharing here is that we are justified by faith and not by works. We are saved by believing the Word of God and not by the keeping of the works of the Law. Paul wants to make a clear distinction between salvation as a gift of God’s grace and salvation as a work of man’s flesh.

Salvation by grace has nothing to do with what we have done but has everything to do with what Jesus has done for us, while works that we carry out in our own strength are meritorious. Any work we do to earn our salvation adds to Christ’s work on the Cross and places God in a position where He is beholden to us!

Man is justified by grace through faith and not by works of the law. We are saved by God’s grace and not through man’s merit. Salvation is a gift – a free gift from God and not a right that has been earned. We are declared righteous by God through our faith in His Word and not the good deeds we carry out. If we were required to earn our salvation, we would consider it a legitimate payment, for wages are not considered a gift if the person has to work for them but rather an obligation of an employer, “for one who works, his wage is not credited as a favour, but as what is due.”

Throughout Scripture, both Old and New Testaments, we see that salvation is not a reward for good works but is always given by believing the Word of God. We are not justified because we merit God’s favour through keeping the Law, but through faith. Justification by grace through faith is not a new way to be saved. 

We see that Abel, Noah, Abraham, and Sarah… Ruth, David, Isaiah, and many other saints in both the Old and New Testaments were all saved by grace through faith and not by works of the Law. We see Christ’s disciples, the apostle Paul, the woman at the well, the man who was blind, and Joseph of Arimathea were justified by their faith and not by their good deeds – and the same continues to be true today.

Paul compares receiving something from God as a recompense for work we do (a reward for OUR works) with being given an unmerited gift for the work Christ did (a free gift of grace for what CHRIST did for us). The first is a deserved entitlement while the second is an undeserved favour. The former is a well-earned wage while the latter is an unmerited gift. Meriting a reward for carrying out a specified task is very different from simply receiving an unconditional, good-will gift as a kindness.

Paul contrasted the receiving of a wage for an accomplished task and being given a free, unmerited, undeserved gift of gracious kindness. He drew our attention to the fact that in the former we deserve what we receive, while in the latter we receive that which we certainly do not deserve. “Now to the one who works, his wage is not credited as a favour, but as what is due.”

Paul may seem to be labouring the point… that being entitled to a wage or receiving a reward for working should never ever be considered the same as being given a free, unmerited, undeserved favour – and yet, then as now, there are many believers who insist that although salvation is a faith thing – we can’t be saved without adding some works.

This is NOT what the Bible teaches. A reward for something we do is not the same as a free gift of God’s grace, for what we believe and Paul quotes from Genesis 15:6 to emphasis that salvation ALWAYS has and always will be by grace through faith in God. “Then Abraham believed in the LORD; and He reckoned it to him as righteousness.” And the same is true of Abel and Noah, Sarah and Ruth, David and Isaiah, and all those who are identified in the Word of God as men and women of faith as we read in Hebrews 11.

Praise God that we are saved by grace through faith in the finished work of Christ at Calvary and receive forgiveness of sins and life everlasting as a free, unmerited gift of God’s goodness and grace.

My Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You that my salvation does not depend on what I have done but on what I believe. Thank You that I am not saved by what I do, but by what Christ has done on my account. Thank You that I am saved by grace through faith in the death, burial, and Resurrection of Christ. May I also live every day of my life by grace through faith and may my prideful self remain nailed to the Cross, as the indwelling life of Christ works through me, to Your praise and glory. This I ask in Jesus’ name, AMEN.

◄ Previous: Romans 4:3 Next: Romans 4:5 ►

Choose a Verse from Romans 4
12345678910111213141516171819202122232425

2 Peter 2:4

Philippians 3:18

Luke 1:33

Luke 15:11
Follow us

Romans 4:4 Further Study
Romans 4:4 in the Parallel Bible
Romans 4:4 in the Thematic Bible
Romans 4:4 Cross References
Romans 4:4 Treasury of Scripture Knowing
Romans 4:4 Sermons
Romans 4:4 Prayers
Romans 4:4 Images
Romans 4:4 Devotionals
Romans 4:4 Answers
Choose Chapter
Subscribe to the Verse of the day

Today’s Devotionals

The Release of the Lord

Galatians 5:22

Exodus 17:15

Sovereign Providence

The Undeviating Question

God, My Helper (Study In God – All I Need-16)

Don’t Be Anxious – He Cares
Doctrinal Statement / Privacy Policy / Use of Pictures / Donate / Contact Us
© Copyright [2011 – 2021] Knowing-Jesus.com – All Rights Reserved
×

Source: https://dailyverse.knowing-jesus.com/romans-4-4

Touching Lives with James Merritt DAILY DEVOTIONAL EMAIL Subscribe to receive the daily devotional from Dr. James Merritt right into your inbox SUBSCRIBE Life Lessons March 1, 2021 “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will direct your path.” Proverbs 3:5-6 British missionary, A. Wetherell Johnson, was serving in China until 1950, when Mao Tse-tung’s communist regime forced missionaries to leave. She loved China deeply. With a torn heart she moved to the United States. Five ladies in San Bernardino, California, asked her to teach a Bible study. Here are her words, “My heart fell! What had I come to? In China there are millions who have not even heard His name. Am I to give more to those who already have so much?” Reluctantly she promised to pray about leading the study. She did say yes, but told them she would not spoon-feed them the Bible. She prepared lesson questions to help them learn to dig deeper into God’s Word themselves. This small group eventually became Bible Study Fellowship, which has grown to over 1,000 classes with more than 200,000 members in 38 nations across six continents! Dashed hopes are often the breeding ground for God to do great things in our lives. It doesn’t matter how much education or money one has. We all gain trust in God lesson by lesson, truth by truth. Each time we choose to trust Him, He gives us reason to trust Him more. Each step of faith illuminates the next, until eventually we learn that His direction is always best, even when we may not understand it or even like it. When we choose to trust God with our whole heart, we unlock the abundance of His grace and wisdom in our lives. It is wonderfully freeing to realize that we don’t have to have all of the answers. All we need is a willingness to follow. This willingness requires complete surrender. It means letting go of controlling the situations and outcomes in our lives. It means letting go of trying to control others’ perceptions of us. This trust comes with a promise…He will direct the paths of our lives. Dear Lord, how grateful I am that you are in complete control of my life so I don’t have to worry. Help me to surrender to your guidance and your will when I’m tempted to control things in my own strength. In Jesus’ name, amen. Topics: God’s Will Bible Reference Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths. About Contact Us Jobs Pastor Resources Prayer Request Privacy Policy Copyright © 2019 Touching Lives, Inc. | 1800 Satellite Blvd, Duluth, GA 30097 | United States | 770-982-0168 Touching Lives is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization

What Does Job 31:1 mean to all Men of the World?

By: Anthony Joseph Hopkins/ February 28, 2020

       Praise The Lord Saints!!  Praise The Lord!!  How are you doing today?  Fine, I hope.  I have a question to ask everyone.  What does Job 31:1 Mean to you?  What it means to me is that I have to be very careful.

       Next, I want to inform all of you that this is really pertaining to men of the world.  I want to inform all men that we cannot always consider women as sex objects.  Women are designed as a man’s helpmate.  Therefore, they are a companion for man himself.  I think the reason why this Bible verse exist because men tend to stray with their eyes, and they do not know it.

       Moreover, I want to say that I even have to be very careful on how I actually look at women.  For Instance, I remember working at the Skyline Chili Restaurant, and there was a young lady that I actually had a crush on.  She was one of my co- -workers. Anyway, I stared at her every single day for at least three months.  Afterwards, she called one of her brothers to confront me.  I would have fought this young lady’s brother.  So, I ended up apologizing to her by saying that I am very sorry for starring at her for three consecutive months.

       In Addition, I want to say that it was my fault for looking at my co-worker in a sexual manner.  However, I have been involved in relationships that were not feasible for me.  I was only involved in the relationship to satisfy my sexual appetite.  I know that Job was married to his wife, but he lost his children because Satan had killed them.

       Further, I want to say that I used to purchase sex from female prostitutes from June 20, 1986 until July 3, 2010.  I have spent an undetermined amount of cash on sex.  I know that this is wrong.  Currently, I am being very careful myself because I have over 5,000 female friends on Facebook, and 7,000 female friends on Mocospace.

  I know that I am only a work in Progress.  I really need prayer in this area right now.  I know that I have a whole lot of female friends.  I do not have a crush on them.  Some of them were my Church members.  I know that even looking at a woman the wrong way would cause a man to end up in jail.  The charge is called Aggravated Menacing.  This is the reason why I am being very careful of my own personal behavior.

Also, I have not had sex in almost 10 years right now.  I know that I have spent a lot of money on female prostitutes.  I even had sex with married women. I would like for all of you to please keep me in your prayers because I am asking God to help me in this area of my life.  I know that it takes years to recover from a sexual addiction.  This is a life- long process.  I also know that I grew up being scared of women.  I did not have sex for the very first time until I was 20 years old. 

Finally, I am actually scared of women.  I do not want to be around women or anyone who quarrel.  Even though it might be my fault for causing the argument.  I only need time to redeem myself personally.  People might call me out of my name for being a hypocrite in one way or another.  I am only sharing my personal experiences concerning women and Job 31:1. 

John 14:1 And What It Means to All People?

By: Anthony Joseph Hopkins February 27, 2021

        John 14:1 is a very interesting Bible verse.  It says Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me.  When I think of this Bible verse, it comforts me.  This is simply because God does not want any of us to be in trouble.  The word troubled means mildly disturbed or distracted.

        Next, I want to say to everyone that God loves you.  God will not put anything on you that you cannot bear.  It reminds me of the Bible verse that pertains to temptation.  I know that my life has consisted of ups and downs.  I have made my bed, and I have lain on top of it.  Let’s look at this Bible verse for a moment.  The first sentence says let not your heart be troubled.  What does this mean to you?  For me personally, God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of love, power, and of a sound mind.  This is 2^nd Timothy 1:7; When we fear, we sin against God.

        Further, I want to inform all of you that I used to fear all people.  When I was a child, I used to get beat up all of the time by the boy that stayed across the alley from me.  I cannot mention his name because it would become a conflict of interest, and I can get into trouble.  However, I used to fight my own family members as well.  I have always lost all of my fights.

        Moreover, I want to say that I have lost all of my fights because I was scared of everyone.  I used to be scared of my own sister.  I do recall winning some of my fights.  Its that I suffered from stage fright.  The definition of stage fright is: nervousness felt at appearing before an audience.  The word fright means 1: fear excited by sudden danger: alarm gave me quite a fright. 2: something strange, ugly, or shocking. fright. verb. frighted; frighting; frights.

 Another word for stage fright is Find another word for stage-fright. In this page you can discover 14 synonyms, antonyms, idiomatic expressions, and related words for stage-fright, like: freeze, spastic aphonia, aphonia, aphonia clericorum, aphonia paralytica, aphonia paranoica, bashfulness, buck-fever, butterflies, flop sweat and hysterical aphonia.  To be honest, I used to be afraid of doing things in front of other people.  I even got scared during my first amateur boxing match.  I also will admit that I was scared when I was in jail on June 21, 1985. 

In Addition, I was so scared of women as well as men.  I do understand when a person defends themselves during a confrontation.  In my case, I am a type of person who does not like to fight anyone.  It will have to be in some extreme cases if I get into a fist fight with anyone.  Therefore, my heart has been troubled numerous of times in my 55 years of existence.  Naturally, I will not fight anyone.  I would rather walk away. 

Finally, when it comes to the sentence Let not your heart be troubled, to me it means that I have to allow God to fight all of my battles.  This is because I actually cannot fight, but I will defend myself if necessary.  I know how to box, but I would rather allow God to fight all of my battles.  I will admit that I am literally scared of women.  In a way, I guess, I am a big softie!!  There are times when I will defend myself.  As long as it is absolutely necessary. 

Currently, I do not have nothing to lose right now.  I would prefer walking away from all of my confrontations.  I am too emotional to do anything right now.  I know that God is watching all of us. 

In Conclusion, I want to inform everyone that I am a God-Fearing Man.  I know that I am powerless over people, places, and things.  This is the truth!!  The only person that I have power over is no one but myself.  At least, I am able to control my emotions.  My life at this time is very intriguing.  For instance, I attend Church every week.  I go to the library at least once per week.  I write essays about the Lord.  I write essays about what the Lord has done for me in my life.  I really love people, animals, and anything that God has created.  God Bless All of You!!  Please take care of yourselves, and stay safe!!  I love all of you very much!!!

What are Ministering Spirits? 

                                        By

Anthony Joseph Hopkins

What are Ministering Spirits?  A ministering spirit or angel is; when it comes to Christianity, a spirit who is believed to look after the needs of a particular person or group.  An example of angels are Gabriel and Michael.  I really feel that everyone who exist on earth has angels assigned to them.  God created all things!!  I only wish I can see the angel that has been assigned to me.

Next, I want to inform all of you that we also have the Holy Spirit inside of us.  I know that this is my first time writing about angels.  I would like to admit that I have never heard God’s voice in my entire life.  However, this is the reason why God is helping me in other ways.  I have to admit that I suffer from Schizoid Affective Disorder, which is a mental illness. 

Therefore, I hear and see things that normal people do not see and hear.  I selected this topic because I heard someone say that we have angels assigned to all of us.  Is this really true?  I do not want to start jumping to conclusions; when it comes to a topic like this one.

Further, if the latter is true, I will be amazed.  I always thought angels are angelic beings.  Another example of an angel is in 2^nd Kings 19:35. It says: And it came to past on a certain night that the angel of the Lord went out and killed in the camp of the Assyrians 185,000.  And when people arouse in the morning there were the corpses all dead.

Anyway, I know that what I am writing is the truth.  I am only asking another person for assistance when it comes to the subject of angels.  I always thought that angels cannot be seen because Jacob wrestled with a man in Genesis 32:22-32.  ²² And he rose up that night, and took his two wives, and his two women servants, and his eleven sons, and passed over the ford Jabbok.

²³ And he took them, and sent them over the brook, and sent over that he had.

²⁴ And Jacob was left alone; and there wrestled a man with him until the breaking of the day.

²⁵ And when he saw that he prevailed not against him, he touched the hollow of his thigh; and the hollow of Jacob’s thigh was out of joint, as he wrestled with him.

²⁶ And he said, Let me go, for the day breaketh. And he said, I will not let thee go, except thou bless me.

²⁷ And he said unto him, What [is] thy name? And he said, Jacob.

²⁸ And he said, Thy name shall be called no more Jacob, but Israel: for as a prince hast thou power with God and with men, and hast prevailed.

²⁹ And Jacob asked [him], and said, Tell [me], I pray thee, thy name. And he said, Wherefore [is] it [that] thou dost ask after my name? And he blessed him there.

³⁰ And Jacob called the name of the place Peniel: for I have seen God face to face, and my life is preserved.

³¹ And as he passed over Penuel the sun rose upon him, and he halted upon his thigh.

³² Therefore the children of Israel eat not [of] the sinew which shrank, which [is] upon the hollow of the thigh, unto this day: because he touched the hollow of Jacob’s thigh in the sinew that shrank.

 It says that Jacob was all alone, and a man wrestled with him until the breaking of day.  When he saw that He did not prevailed against him.  The man broke Jacob’s hip.  Genesis 32:24-25 have been emphasized because I am illustrating what angels are doing.  Honestly, Jacob wrestled with God.

Moreover, when it comes to ministering spirits, these are spirits and angels who take care of a person or a group of people.  I thought that angels can be detected with the naked eye of human beings?  Ministering Spirits always help others during their time of need.  In the Book of Hebrews, inside of the 1^st Chapter and the 14^th verse.  It specifically says:  Are they not all ministering spirits sent forth to minister for those who will inherit salvation.

<p value="<amp-fit-text layout="fixed-height" min-font-size="6" max-font-size="72" height="80"><strong>Finally, the word minister means to help or give aid.  Ministering Spirits are sent forth by God Himself.  In order to help those who will inherit salvation.  What is the definition of the word salvation?  The definition of the word salvation means preservation or deliverance from harm, ruin, or loss.  In Theology, the definition of the word salvation means deliverance from sin and its consequences, by faith in Christ.  Ministering Spirits are those who are selected by God, or chosen by God to do good.</strong>Finally, the word minister means to help or give aid.  Ministering Spirits are sent forth by God Himself.  In order to help those who will inherit salvation.  What is the definition of the word salvation?  The definition of the word salvation means preservation or deliverance from harm, ruin, or loss.  In Theology, the definition of the word salvation means deliverance from sin and its consequences, by faith in Christ.  Ministering Spirits are those who are selected by God, or chosen by God to do good.