 
The Wings of a Dove

Bobby A. Troutt

Copyright 2016 by Bobby A. Troutt

Smashwords Edition

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Table of Contents

Changing the Attitudes of Your Past

When the Devil Reminds You of Your Past, Remind Him of His Future

The Cycle of Life

Some People Don't Want to Give up Things for a Change. Some People Are Happy, They

Think, The Way They Are.

Trouble in Paradise

Let Us Not Fear This Thing Called Death

Excuses

Remember Lot's Wife

The Sole of a Dove's Foot

Letting Some Things Go

Playing It Too Close

A World of Loose Ends

Take it to the Lord in Prayer (Everybody Has an Opinion)

Gone Fishin'

It Doesn't Matter How a Person Dies, It is How They Stand Before the Judgement

The Greatest of all Rewards is to Hear Christ Say, Enter in Good and Faithful Servant

Going to the Mountain

A Troubled Heart

Stealing Away Your Peace

Letting the Lord Take Over the Things in Our Lives

You Can Run but You Can't Hide

Looking For a Blessing

I Had Nowhere to Look But Up

Loving the Lord

None of Us Was Put Here to Stay

They Hated Me Without a Cause

*****

The Wings of a Dove

Changing the Attitudes of Your Past

Genesis 4:16

And Cain went out from the presence of the Lord, and dwelt in the land of Nod, on the east of Eden.

Through life, it is so easy to pick up bad attitudes. And, it is so easy to hold on to them and bear them in our everyday life. Many things will happen to us in this life. Some of them will be good and a lot of them will be bad. It is so easy for us to develop an attitude because of others doing something to us or by situations and circumstances that come our way. Cain was a good example of someone with a bad attitude. Cain brought the fruits of his labor unto the Lord and Abel his brother brought his. The Lord had respect unto Abel and his offering but unto Cain and his offering he had no respect which caused Cain to become very angry. In Genesis 3:17, God had put a curse upon the ground. God said, "Cursed is the ground for thy sake." In my opinion, it seems hard for me to see how God could bless the fruits of the ground which was Cain's offering when God had put a curse upon it. Plus, Abel's offering was of a blood sacrifice symbolic of Christ.

Genesis 4:6

And the Lord said unto Cain, Why art thou wroth? and why is thy countenance fallen?

Genesis 4:7

If thou doest well, shalt thou not be accepted? and if thou doest not well, sin lieth at the door. And unto thee shall be his desire, and thou shalt rule over him.

He said, "Thou doest well, shalt thou not be accepted?" But, Cain went on with a bad attitude which he carried awhile. However, when he could not take it any longer, he killed his brother Abel and buried him in the field (Genesis 4:9-17). Sometimes, in life, bad attitudes that were created in our past will, if we let them, motivate and rule over us. Things that have happened in our past, which has left a bad impression or a bad feeling, will steal away our joy and peace and rob God's blessings from us. A bad attitude is liken to one rotten apple in the basket; it can decay, spread and rot the others. A lot of the time we can take a little attitude about something and, if we are not careful, let the devil feed that attitude over a period of time which will grow in to a big, bad attitude and provoke us into a deeper mess. Sometimes, we hold on and hold back. Instead of praying and asking the Lord to help us get rid of it or even take it away, we let it fester and swell. Then, we fall in to the bondage of it and it cripples and lames us. Why? Because we let it handicap us instead of letting the Lord set us free. Being in bondage of our own bad attitudes will surely create a lot of unhappy moments. I believe, dealing, today, with the attitudes of the past will help determine how bright things will be tomorrow. Living in the bad attitudes of the past will dim our light and cause our outlook on life to have a bad disposition. There are the good attitudes that stir our days; the cheerful moments of a defeated bad attitude won over by a good one. I think our attitude plays a very important part in our everyday life. I believe it is something that should not be overlooked nor taken for granted. An attitude can make a person or break them. Have you ever been around someone with a bad attitude? With them being so negative and judgmental, they are not very fun to be around. But, it is a blessing to be around a person who just takes life as it comes. It seems like their attitude is so good about everything and they just enjoy life. How is it with you, today? Are you changing the bad attitude of your past? Do you need to do some work in that area? I know I have some attitudes which are not very good. I hope to work on them and try to look at things a little differently. But, bear with me, it may take me awhile. It just depends on how much I want to let go and allow the Lord to help me. I believe that an attitude adjustment begins in the heart by a touch from Jesus. A change of heart will have a great impact on everything else in our life.

~~~~~

As I looked across the way, a whisper came unto me in the stillness of the slow falling rain. The Lord moved and said, "I am with you, my child; don't be so sad for I am here for you." As I looked across the way, a whisper came unto me in the song of a sparrow. The Lord moved and said, "Cheer up, my child, and be not afraid for I am with you and I will bring you through; I will make a way." As I looked across the way, I felt the Lord speak to me in the gentle breeze that blew by me. And the Lord moved and said, "I have not forgotten you." My heart was filled with his love and the sweetness of his voice as he whispered, "I love you, my child." And, as I looked across the way, tears filled my eyes and I whispered unto the Lord, "I love you, too, Lord.

Bobby A. Troutt

*****

The Wings of a Dove

When the Devil Reminds You of Your Past, Remind Him of His Future

Matthew 4:8

Again, the devil taketh him up into an exceeding high mountain, and sheweth him all the kingdoms of the world, and the glory of them;

Matthew 4:9

And saith unto him, All these things will I give thee, if thou wilt fall down and worship me.

Matthew 4:10

Then saith Jesus unto him, Get thee hence, Satan: for it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve.

I truly believe that one of the Christians' strongest weaknesses is listening to the devil and not listening to God. Too many times, I believe, we are caught up in listening to the devil with his lies and deceit; we are caught off guard and fall for his trickery and traps. Too many times, we are found listening to him and thinking on what he is saying instead of studying and applying the word of God to our lives. When the devil reminds you of your past, remind him of his future. The devil will talk to us if we'll listen. He'll whisper in our ears the things we want to hear if we are not where we need to be with the Lord. He will sneak around, sneak up behind us, walk alongside us and pat us on the back. But, at the same time, he will steal us blind and drag us off to hell with him if we're not careful. I believe, too many times, we lean to our own understanding with a little help from the devil. We'll get caught up in believing a lie instead of the truth. He will use our past, our failures, our sins and our mistakes against us. But, don't listen to him. Resist the devil and draw nigh unto God. When the devil reminds you of your past, remind him of his future. Let go of the past.

I John 4:1

Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world.

There are many spirits. We cannot keep a thought from coming into our mind. But, we can keep them from staying there. Try the spirits and see if they are of God. If they're not and they don't line up with the word of God, get rid of them and leave them alone because they could be poisonous. When the devil comes against us with the things in our past, we should shun from them for God has forgiven us and that's all that matters. What God thinks is important is not necessarily what the devil or others think. If Jesus has set us free, we're free indeed. Be careful. Do not be brought into bondage and chains by thoughts from the devil.

John 8:44

Ye are of your father the devil, and the lusts of your father ye will do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and abode not in the truth, because there is not truth in him. When he speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own: for he is a liar, and the father of it.

If he can, at all, the devil will use our past and his thoughts to bring us down in defeat, steal our joy and take away our peace. He will entangle us in bondage if we will listen to him. We have to stand on what Christ has done for us. We know what Jesus did. Grab hold of that and stand on it. Be careful and do not become a slave to personal thoughts. Try the spirits. Be neither moved nor shaken but be steadfast in that which God has spoken to the heart. God does not lie. He can't if he could. The devil is a liar and the truth is not in him. The devil will confuse us with thoughts, try to mix us up and lead us his way, if we're not careful.

I Corinthians 14:33

For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace, as in all churches of the saints.

We as born again believers in Christ don't have to be confused, mixed up, in bondage or a slave to the devil. All we have to do is stay in the total and complete obedience with the Lord. Our minds are the battlefield and the devil is after the heart. If he can get our heart, our love will be that of the things of the devil, world and the flesh which is everything contrary to God.

Philippians 4:6

Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.

Philippians 4:7

And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

Philippians 4:8

Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virture, and if there be any praise, think on these things.

I believe by keeping our thoughts and mind clean and clear and thinking on spiritual things, we'll tear up the polluted playground of the devil. If he has no place to play his game, he is not as strong. Dwell in a clean mind and thoughts. The devil knows that once he can get a seed planted in our mind and get us to start thinking on it he can get that seed to grow by the more we think on it. He can use it to steal our heart. Example: a seed of hate, bitterness and lust. If we allow these things to take root and grow, the devil will enslave us with them and they will control our life if we'll let them. But, remember, these things begin with a thought, a thought from the devil not of God. So, we must be very careful of the thoughts we listen to.

II Corinthians 11:14

And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light.

The devil can do all kinds of things with man's imagination.

Genesis 6:5

And God saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every imagination of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually.

Genesis 6:6

And it repented the Lord that he had made man on the earth, and it grieved him at his heart.

The Bible stated that every imagination of the thought of his heart was only evil continually. What about today? Who are you listening to? When the devil reminds you of your past, remind him of his future. If you're a born again Christian, you're not a servant to sin and the devil but you're a servant to God. You are a child of the King, Jesus Christ our Lord. What do you think?

~~~~~

Sometimes, it seems, we are losing the battle. The struggles seem so hard and we see little to no hope of finding the end of them. Our faith is overtaken with fear, hurt and the feeling of hopelessness. We are weak and so tired; we feel like we can't make it. Our eyes are overrun with tears, our backs are against the walls of trouble and, at any given moment, we feel like we will lose it all. When all hope is almost gone is when the Lord moves in and lifts us up off the edge of life's cliffs with his love. We then take wings under his shadow and fly high toward the heaven above unto his victory with his peace, his joy and his love. We will soar with him in our hearts and overcome the dark troubles and troubled days unto a peaceful rest in him where no words can began to describe. The battle will soon pass and the storm will soon end. Be patient and trust in the Lord for he will see us safely through.

Bobby A. Troutt

*****

The Wings of a Dove

The Cycle of Life

Ecclesiastes 3:1

To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven:

I am a firm believer that there is a time and purpose for all things in the cycle of this life. There are times when we are in the valley, on the mountain top, going through a long, dark tunnel. There are also times of temptations, trials and troubles. There are the moments of laughter, tears and being sad. Sometimes, it seems like life's cycle turns and turns; wherever it stops that's where we'll be at that time of its season. Life is full of ups, downs and tears of joy as well as tears of sadness. There are the gut-belly laughs and smirk grins that come along life's way. Getting through life's cycle whichever way it may fall is sometimes a great challenge. But, most of all, we shouldn't be content in the cycle. We need to learn all that we can while we're going through it. It is when we call upon the Lord Jesus and in him alone that he will bring us through.

Psalm 121:1

I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help.

Psalm 121:2

My help cometh from the Lord, which made heaven and earth.

Cycle of life (temptation). We all will face temptations one way or another. We all will be tempted; not of God but of the devil by giving over to the flesh. It is those times, when we are stronger in the Lord and his spirit, when we'll least likely fall in to the temptations. Why are we tempted? I believe, to overcome our faults and weaknesses that hinder us in our relationship with the Lord, we shouldn't be in any bondage or let the devil or the flesh have a stronghold on us. How do we overcome it? By God's word and his spirit through his son Jesus Christ is our only hope. God wants us totally and completely, not half way.

I Corinthians 10:13

There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.

Cycle of life (troubles).

Job 14:1

Man that is born of a woman is of few days, and full of trouble.

Job said, "A man that is born of woman is of few days, and full of trouble." We all have probably had our fair share of troubles. Yet, troubles are still on the way. There are those troubles we bring on ourselves which we don't have to have. And, there are the troubles brought on by others which are out of our control. Troubles, troubles and more troubles; we all have our share of troubles. But, it is within those troubled times that we can learn so much and grow so strong if we will let the Lord have his way with us. We have to look at ourselves and not at others to seek the things we need to learn which will help us the next time life's cycle falls upon troubles.

Psalm 50:15

And call upon me in the day of trouble: I will deliver thee, and thou shalt glorify me.

Cycle of life (trials).

I Peter 1:7

That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ:

Our trials and life's tests sometimes seems more than we can bear. It seems life is so unfair at times and it seems like we wind up with the short end of the stick and there's nothing else to do but to accept it, go on and make the best of it. True trials and true tests, with the help of the Lord, will bring us through in the end as pure as gold if we will take heed unto the Lord, keep the faith and stay on our knees. Life's trials, tests and the tribulations can sometimes shake even the strongest of faith, if one is not careful.

Job 23:10

But he knoweth the way that I take: when he hath tried me, I shall come forth as gold.

Cycle of life (valleys). Throughout our journey in life's valleys, we shall be molded and shaped by the merciful hand of the Lord if we will let him. We can be molded and shaped to that which he would want us to be or we can be shaped by our troubles into what we want to be. We can accept to choose the way the world molds us if that is what we want. The valleys seem so long, dark and unsure but it is when we lift up our hearts unto the Lord and we let him bring us through time and time again with the hopes that each time we'll grow stronger and stronger. Through God above, we find the way of his work in our lives upon the potter's wheel.

Jeremiah 18:1

The word which came to Jeremiah from the Lord, saying,

Jeremiah 18:2

Arise, and go down to the potter's house, and there I will cause thee to hear my words.

Jeremiah 18:3

Then I went down to the potter's house, and, behold, he wrought a work on the wheels.

Jeremiah 18:4

And the vessel that he made of clay was marred in the hand of the potter: so he made it again another vessel, as seemed good to the potter to make it.

Jeremiah 18:5

Then the word of the Lord came to me, saying

Jeremiah 18:6

O house of Israel, cannot I do with you as this potter? saith the Lord. Behold, as the clay is in the potter's hand, so are ye in mine hand, O house of Israel.

Cycle of life (the long dark tunnel). During the uncertainties of life and not fully knowing or completely understanding, we have to walk by faith completely and not by sight. Through his love for us and our love in him, we shall endure, overcome and achieve, to the greatest of our ability, victory through him. We are his children; praise God. It is as we travel life's way, surrounded by the unknowing, that our eyes are focused on Christ and we keep our sight focused on the light at the end of the tunnel of the heavenly vision of home.

Isaiah 41:10

Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.

Isaiah 41:13

For I the Lord thy God will hold thy right hand, saying unto thee, Fear not; I will help thee.

Cycle of life (mountain top). There are those times in our life of the personal times of being on top of the mountain with the Lord. Those special times with him cannot be described with words. We all have been there; they are moments we'll never forget.

Psalm 100:1

Make a joyful noise unto the Lord, all ye lands.

Psalm 100:2

Serve the Lord with gladness: come before his presence with singing.

Psalm 100:3

Know ye that the Lord he is God: it is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture.

Psalm 100:4

Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name.

Psalm 100:5

For the Lord is good; his mercy is everlasting; and his truth endureth to all generations.

It may be, today, that you're caught up in the cycle of this life. You may be going from up to down and down to up or round and round on life's merry-go-round. Keep the faith and look to the end. If you pray, wait, trust and obey, the Lord will bring you through. But, you must believe.

Matthew 17:20

And Jesus said unto them, Because of your unbelief: for verily I say unto you, If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain, Remove hence to yonder place; and it shall remove; and nothing shall be impossible unto you.

~~~~~

My troubles beset me and I am surrounded by the heaviest of dark clouds. My eyes are blinded by my troubles. I am uneasy in my spirit and I don't see a way out. Fear has me uneasy and my faith is no more than a dim light. I cry out for the Lord to bring me through the uneasy troubles and fears that over shadow me. I will not give in to the enemy. But, I will wait patiently for the Lord. "Lord, Lord," I cried in my fear but I heard not from him. "Lord, Lord," I cried again but still nothing. Then, a few moments later, my spirit began to move. I was able to take my eyes off my troubles and look through the dark clouds above me. There I saw a small twinkle of light beginning to shine through. My heart and spirit began to rejoice and my faith began to grow. I was beginning to see a way out of my troubles that I hadn't seen before. The light grew bigger and bigger as the Lord moved in my heart and spirit. "Be not troubled or uneasy, my child," he said unto me, "for I am with thee and I have made a way." And, I then replied, "I love you, Lord."

Bobby A. Troutt

*****

The Wings of a Dove

Some People Don't Want to Give up Things for a Change. Some People Are Happy, They

Think, The Way They Are.

Acts 26:28

Then Agrippa said unto Paul, Almost thou persuadest me to be a Christian.

The Apostle Paul had gone before King Agrippa; Paul witnessed and testified to him of Jesus Christ our Lord. King Agrippa told Paul that he had almost persuaded him to be a Christian. As far as we know, King Agrippa never became to be a Christian and it is believed he died lost. Some people don't want to give up things for a change. Some people are happy, they think, the way they are.

Matthew 6:21

For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.

Jesus said, "For where your treasure is, there will be your heart also." I don't care what kind of personal addiction you have, what kind of bondage you're in or what stronghold the devil has on you and your life, where your treasure is there will be your heart. As long as your love is in your addiction or whatever your stronghold is, you'll always be in that bondage. If your love is greater for your addiction than your love for God, you'll always be held captive. But, when your love of God is greater than anything else, you, I believe, will be set free. The change has to be made in the heart. The loves have to change before freedom will come. There will be a change made when you change your loves and not until then. Your love for God and Christ his son has to be far greater than the love of your bondage or addiction. If it's not, you'll always be drawn to the greater love and it will be what you will serve. Some people don't want to give up things for a change. Some people are happy, they think, the way they are. Too many people, today, are held in bondage by their sinful loves, habits and addictions. Their love of their bondage is far greater than the love of really wanting to be free. It becomes a crutch, a way of life. They have come to accept their life, their loves and their ways and their hopes of being free have slowly slipped away because they don't want to change. They don't want to give up the things they love. A lot of people don't want to change simply because they don't want to give up their loves. They think what they have right now is far greater than that in the end (but it's not).

Maybe, today, you have been battling with addictions, habits, desires, attitudes and so on, struggling with it day after day, and you just can't shake them and be set free. If you'll change your loves, I'm talking about the change must take place in your heart and it must be a spiritual change, I believe you'll find your answer and be set free. Pray unto Christ, repent (Godly sorrow worketh repentance), turn from your ways and believe with all your heart by faith. Accept what that Christ has done for you personally and what he said he would do. Jesus said, "I will never leave you or forsake you." The key is where your treasure is, there will be your heart also. There are some people who are afraid of change. They lack the faith and are full of fear.

II Timothy 1:7

For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.

I John 4:18

There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love.

Some are afraid they can't make it. True, you can't on your own, but you can through Christ our Lord.

Philippians 4:13

I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.

Mark 10:27

And Jesus looking upon them saith, With men it is impossible, but not with God: for with God all things are possible.

And, I want to say to you, yes, you can make it, too. Put it all in Christ's hands, let go, let God and believe. Stand on God's word and be cleansed by and through the blood of Christ. Yet, there are some who won't change because they have given up because of doubt and unbelief. They have accepted things the way they are and believe it's never going to be any better; it's always going to be the way it is. To them it has become an everyday, day by day way of life. It is hopeless because they'll never change or ever come out of it since they see no need to change or have the willpower and determination to do something about it. It doesn't have to be that way. There is hope in Christ and all things are possible through God, to those who believe. But, yet, there are those who just don't want it any other way. Some people don't want to give up things for a change (some people are happy, they think, the way they are). It is true, today. Some see no need for a change because what they have seen out of some Christians makes them believe they're better off like they are than to be like some they've seen.

Matthew 5:13

Ye are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith shall it be salted? it is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men.

Matthew 5:14

Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid.

Matthew 5:15

Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house.

Matthew 5:16

Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.

Paul witnessed and testified to King Agrippa of Jesus Christ our Lord. King Agrippa told Paul that he had almost persuaded him to be a Christian. I wonder, today, would you be persuaded to make a change?

~~~~~

I am troubled and my heart longs to see a light through my troubled days. The depression lays heavy upon me and my worries beset me in my time when my faith is weak. How long will I ride upon the doubt and how long must I cry before I see my blessed hope and hear the sweet voice of my Lord? My troubles lie waiting in my mind. My heart cries with worry and my spirit mourns the cry of death. When will I let go and begin to believe? When will my racing thoughts ease and my spirit begin to rest? I look through the darkness of the valley that I walk and cry out unto the Lord. I asked, "How long shall it be?" The silence slowly moved me to be still and I became still. Then, I heard a sweet voice in my spirit. "Rest in me, my child, for your troubles shall fade away because I will bring you through and you shall find rest in me. In me is all peace," said the Lord.

Bobby A. Troutt

*****

The Wings of a Dove

Trouble in Paradise

The very moment Eve started talking and listening to the devil there began to be trouble in paradise. In the beginning, there was trouble in paradise. By the fall of Adam, sin was passed to all mankind and mankind was on their way to total destruction of sin, hell and death. But, by and through the Lord Jesus Christ the son of the true and living God, God made a way for mankind through his love and his son Jesus Christ for all that would come, repent, accept and believe of the virgin birth, the blood and suffering death of his son, and upon the resurrection of his son unto eternal life. In the Garden of Eden, there was trouble in paradise. Eve talked and listened to the devil. She took of the tree of knowledge of good and evil that God had said to leave alone because in the day that thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die. However, Eve did eat of the tree and gave to Adam and Adam did eat which caused their eyes to be opened and they knew that they were naked and became ashamed. So, they sewed themselves some fig leaves together and hid amongst the trees of the garden as the voice of God came walking in the cool of the day. "Where art thou?" the Lord called out unto Adam. In the beginning, there was trouble in paradise, the fall of Adam brought sin unto all mankind. The devil is using sin, today, to destroy life, family and homes, today. People, today, are doing as Eve did; they are listening to the devil instead of listening to God. And, they are giving in and falling into the same old trap and snare that Eve fell into. We need to, today, wake up and pay attention to what is going on in our lives, where it's coming from and where it is headed. We need to get our lives in order through the Lord Jesus Christ and the Holy Ghost of God. We need, this day, to pray continuously and seek the will of God in our hearts and lives. If we are in a mess, we need to stop hiding behind the trees in the garden and come out and talk to the Lord about it. We have to face it with Christ and let Jesus put the broken pieces back together. Let him strengthen what is crooked and lower that which is high. We need to let Jesus put the peace and harmony back in our lives. But, we cannot do it as long as we are hiding. We must bring everything out in the open and face it with God.

In the beginning, there was trouble in paradise. Adam and Eve started off doing great which sounds like so many of us, today. They had it all there in the garden. Then came the old serpent and he messed everything up. Sound familiar? Where are we? I'll tell you where most of us are. We are still hiding behind it all because we're afraid to face it. We keep putting it off and most of us don't even know where to turn. I want to say, turn to Jesus. Jesus said, "Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid. Jesus loves you, today. He loves us all. He doesn't love the things we do a lot of the time but he is there for us. Adam and Eve covered themselves with fig leaves. I want to say that it's going to take more than that to cover us, today. It's going to take the cleansing blood of Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior before we'll ever be set free. I wonder, will you be willing to come out from behind the fig leaves unto a blood bought victory in Jesus Christ? The manmade solutions just won't make it, they're not sufficient. But, the blood of the Lamb of God Jesus Christ applied to your heart and life makes all the difference unto eternal life.

The devil is tearing up Jack in our land and country, today. He is destroying homes and families. He is destroying people's lives, their hopes and dreams. Sin is abound. The devil is using sin to destroy families and homes, today, such as he did in the Garden of Eden. Adultery, fornication, covetness, cheating, lying and stealing has just about broken down the backbone of America and that of the family and homes. Troubles and problems have put a huge toll upon us. There was trouble in paradise, in the beginning, and we still have it, today, and it's called sin. We are a nation under God. We are to be a God-fearing people striving for one goal and one goal only and that is to serve God our heavenly father with all our hearts, mind, soul and strength and walk with him in complete, true obedience. There was trouble in paradise and there is trouble this day for sin is abound in our land and country. The devil is doing all he can to bring destruction to people.

Maybe, today, there's trouble in your paradise. Maybe things are not like they used to be and maybe you have just about slipped out of the garden and into the world. Maybe you're standing at the gates of the garden and you're trying to make a decision or a choice. I want to say, wait, be patient and give the Lord time to work and hold fast to him.

The Lord took the skins of animals and made Adam and Eve some clothes. At that time, he took care of the needs in their life. God loves us, today, and he'll make a way if we love, trust and obey him. Maybe, today, our paradise is not what it was but I believe the Lord will make it sufficient enough for our needs. Adam and Eve was driven from the garden.

Genesis 3:22

And the Lord God said, Behold, the man is become as one of us, to know good and evil: and now, lest he put forth his hand, and take also of the tree of life, and eat, and live for ever:

Genesis 3:23

Therefore the Lord God sent him forth from the garden of Eden, to till the ground from whence he was taken.

Genesis 3:24

So he drove out the man; and he placed at the east of the garden of Eden Cherubims, and a flaming sword which turned every way, to keep the way of the tree of life.

*****

The Wings of a Dove

Let Us Not Fear This Thing Called Death

Luke 16:19

There was a certain rich man, which was clothed in purple and fine linen, and fared sumptuously every day:

Luke 16:20

And there was a certain beggar named Lazarus, which was laid at his gate, full of sores,

Luke 16:21

And desiring to be fed with the crumbs which fell from the rich man's table: moreover the dogs came and licked his sores.

Luke 16:22

And it came to pass, that the beggar died, and was carried by the angels into Abraham's bosom: the rich man also died, and was buried;

Death is a scary thing for us all. For, we all will, one time or another, have to cross the chilly Jordan. But, it is not to be feared for those who have made peace with God; those who have accepted his son Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior in their hearts and lives. However, for those who are lost in sin and those who have rejected God and turned him away, facing death and beyond may be more than they can bear. I truly believe the Lord deals with everyone at one time or another to come and accept him and his son and receive the gift of eternal life. I don't believe there is anyone who has ever lived that hasn't had an invitation because somehow or someway it has been offered. I believe that Jesus Christ died and paid the debt for all our sins and made a way for whosoever would let him come. We, from the beginning in the Garden of Eden, are free moral agents to make our own choices. How we face death will depend on the choices we make in life. Eternity is solely left up to each individual to choose. Nobody can do it for us. Nobody can live good enough to make it nor can money buy the way. Heaven will be by and through Jesus Christ and no other way. Hell and the lake of fire will be without Christ and on our own and by our sins. Let us not fear this thing called death. We as born again believers in Christ are crossing from this earthly life to a never ending eternal life. A place where we'll never grow old nor will there be any more sorrow, sickness, hurt or pain. Let us not fear this thing called death but accept it as a passing from death unto eternal life. Death, to a lot of people, will be a horrible thing. We cannot imagine what lies beyond nor do we want to know. Death is for real. It is something we all will be faced with. But, what is more important than death is to be ready to face it. Be prepared and ready at all times for death waits for no person. When your appointed time comes, death will do its part whether a person is ready or not. I believe, too many times, we take death, eternity and our final destination too lightly. We feel or think we have all the time in the world to make the proper arrangement. However, God has never promised us a tomorrow. Today is a gift from God.

I Corinthians 15:55

O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory?

I Corinthians 15:56

The sting of death is sin; and the strength of sin is the law.

I Corinthians 15:57

But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.

I Corinthians 15:58

Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord.

I wonder, today, are you ready and prepared to die and face the judgment? Are you ready to give an account of your life, whether it be good or bad? The question is; how will death find you?

Hebrews 9:27

And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment:

Hebrews 9:28

So Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many; and unto them that look for him shall he appear the second time without sin unto salvation.

Let us not fear this thing called death. Let us be ready.

~~~~~

As I walked along the path of the meadow in late fall, the trees were aglow with brilliant colors and the wind was a bit nippy. As I sat down at the edge of the lake, in the distance I heard the caw of the crows. And, when I looked up, I saw some geese flying over as they headed south for the winter. As I sat there thinking and skipped stones across the water, I thought about how the Lord had been so good to me. I had so much to be thankful for; more than I could ever mention. I began to look back over my life of how the Lord had been there for me. There was so much that I had taken for granted. So many times I failed to thank the Lord. I don't know what I would have done if he hadn't been there for me and brought me through. I have made so many mistakes and fell along the way. So many times I failed to say thank you, Lord, and I didn't tell him that I loved him. However, he was always there for me. Although I didn't deserve a thing from him, not even that first blessing, he still loved me and blessed me so. He has taken care of me all these years. There is no way I could ever repay him for all he has done for me except to love him with all of my heart, mind and soul.

Bobby A. Troutt

*****

The Wings of a Dove

Excuses

Everyone wants to go to heaven but nobody wants to bear the cross. I truly believe that this day and time, more than any time, there is a bountiful work to be done in the Lord's harvest. Jesus said the fields were white and the harvest was truly plentiful but the laborers were few. There are a countless number of lost souls dying lost and undone around the world, minute by minute, while a lot of the church-world sits content, unconcerned and satisfied. Excuses; people pour out excuses unto the Lord while people are dying lost and away from God. I know one or two individuals can't do it all but if all born-again believers would work together and share the work, the harvest would be plentiful. But, yet, we are held back and come up short. Why? Because of excuses, that's why.

Luke 14:16

Then said he unto him, A certain man made a great supper, and bade many:

Luke 14:17

And sent his servant at supper time to say to them that were bidden, Come; for all things are now ready.

And a certain man sent his servant at supper time to say to them, come, for all things are now ready. I believe the time of the second coming of Christ draws near. For, no one but the heavenly father knows the hour or the day. But, we know that this day is a day closer than yesterday.

Luke 14:18

And they all with one consent began to make excuse. The first said unto him, I have bought a piece of ground, and I must needs go and see it: I pray thee have me excused.

I believe, a lot of the time, God's people let the things of this earth hinder them and hold them back from dong their work in the kingdom. Excuses, excuses; everybody has an excuse. What about you? What is your excuse? Too many times, we allow the things of the world to steal away our time and rob away the joy of witnessing and sharing our testimony of Jesus unto a dark and dying world. There are those things in our daily lives that we can wait on and put off for a little while as we work in the harvest.

Luke 14:19

And another said, I have bought five yoke of oxen, and I go to prove them: I pray thee have me excused.

Excuses, excuses; we are easily wrapped up in the material things of this world. We are so wrapped up in self and what we have that we care very little for others and their needs. In this fast paced world we are living in, we are so wrapped up in our self and what we have and want that our neighbors die and are buried before we realize they're gone. It is so peculiar that everybody wants to go to heaven but nobody wants to bear the cross. There are all kinds of talented and gifted people with all kinds of abilities that sit idle in community, homes and church while people die lost and go to hell. Why! Because of excuses and procrastination amongst the church-world, that's why.

Luke 14:20

And another said, I have married a wife, and therefore I cannot come.

How many times have we made excuses and tried to blame others? How many times have others stood in our way? More than likely the answer is none. Why? Because, if you really wanted to do it, you would have found a way, that's why. Excuses, excuses. How would you have felt if God made excuses instead sending Jesus, his son? What if Christ, instead of going to the cross, gave excuses? What if he never died nor rose from the dead but, yet, gave excuses? How would mankind be, today?

Luke 14:21

So that servant came, and shewed his lord these things. Then the master of the house being angry said to his servant, Go out quickly into the streets and lanes of the city, and bring in hither the poor, and the maimed, and the halt, and the blind.

Luke 14:22

And the servant said, Lord, it is done as thou hast commanded, and yet there is room.

Luke 14:23

And the lord said unto the servant, Go out into the highways and hedges, and compel them to come in, that my house may be filled.

This is a parable when Jesus spoke of the great supper about those who gave an excuse. This, too, is so true, today. It illustrates the excuses made for the work of the Kingdom of God that so badly needs to be done. I believe, we all, at times, fall short of those things the Lord has chosen for us to do. I know that I don't always give my all as I should and I, too, have my excuses. Yes, they, too, are inexcusable. We all, I believe, could do better. Don't you?

Luke 9:57

And it came to pass, that, as they went in the way, a certain man said unto him, Lord, I will follow thee whithersoever thou goest.

Luke 9:58

And Jesus said unto him, Foxes have holes, and birds of the air have nests; but the Son of man hath not where to lay his head.

Luke 9:59

And he said unto another, Follow me. But he said, Lord, suffer me first to go and bury my father.

Luke 9:60

Jesus said unto him, Let the dead bury their dead: but go thou and preach the kingdom of God.

Luke 9:61

And another also said, Lord, I will follow thee; but let me first go bid them farewell, which are at home at my house.

Luke 9:62

And Jesus said unto him, No man, having put his hand to the plough, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God.

~~~~~

In my latter days, I have looked back over my life and my journey has been long; some of it was easy and some of it was hard. I have climbed many hills and stood high on the mountain top. I have walked through many a long, dark valleys and crossed over troubled waters. I have burnt many of life's bridges along the way. I have soared like an eagle and at the same time I have stumbled and fell. I have laughed and I have cried. I have been broken but, yet, I have endured. I have had a lifetime of struggles and I am a man of many sorrows. I have made many mistakes and bad choices. I have been alone in life's darkness but, yet, endured the days of light. Although, it seems to me that I have walked it alone and endured so much. But, deep down in my heart, I know the Lord has been with me and it's only because of him that I have made it through. Now that my days are numbered, I am ready to go be with my Lord Jesus in that place he has prepared for me in the heavens above.

Bobby A. Troutt

*****

The Wings of a Dove

Remember Lot's Wife

Luke 17:32

Remember Lot's wife

God had brought destruction upon Sodom and Gomorrah (Genesis 19 chapter) because of sin. Lot and his family fled to the mountains, out of the city, as God brought destruction upon it. Each and everything that breathed was killed and the two twin cities of the plains were brought to ashes. Lot, his wife and two daughters fled to the nearby mountain. But, Lot's wife turned and looked back after the two angels told them not to and she turned into a pillar of salt. Jesus said, "Remember Lot's wife." So many times, in our Christian walk with God, the trials, temptations and tribulations gets hard to bear. Sometimes, the cross becomes more than we can bear. At times, the burden gets too heavy and the world put a toll upon us. But, Christ would have never given us that cross or burden if he knew, through him, we couldn't bear it. Everyone has to bear their own cross. However, we can help each other with our burdens. There are many of us who, as Lot's wife, have looked back and went back to our old ways and became partakers of the world again. I don't know if we just give up, fail and can't forgive ourselves. Or, the things of the world may have a greater stronghold on us. Each of us will have to stand on own decisions. Regardless of how many answers, reasons or excuses we have, there is only one answer and that is Christ. No matter how many times we give up or quit, the reason doesn't matter. Jesus said it all when he said, "Remember Lot's wife." I often think about Lot's wife who was turned into a pillar of salt and what Jesus says in Matthew 5:13.

Matthew 5:13

Ye are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith shall it be salted? it is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men.

We as born again believers in Christ were blood bought by Jesus' death on Calvary's Hill nearly two thousand years ago. Though Jesus rose from the dead upon the third day unto the complete, perfect, plan of salvation for all of mankind, we as born again believers are to be as Jesus said.

Matthew 5:14

Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid.

Matthew 5:15

Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house.

Matthew 5:16

Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.

We are to be a light to share the hope of Christ in this dark, dying, Sodom and Gomorrah world we live in. We are not to look back and become a pillar of salt which has lost its savour. Instead, we should be a marvelous and glorious light; a gift of eternal life which leads others unto Christ.

Are you thinking about giving it up? I wonder, are you sort of looking out of the corner of your eye at something behind you, something of the world? Keep your eyes upon Jesus and that heavenly home. Keep that spiritual vision, that pure heart and keep a spiritual mind. Think on good things which are honest and pure. Stay humble, honest, sincere, holy and righteous before God each day.

James 4:7

Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.

James 4:8

Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded.

Are you willing to give it all up, turn away and reject what God has done for you? Are you willing to take that chance like Lot's wife by glancing over your shoulder and looking back?

II Peter 2:19

While they promise them liberty, they themselves are the servants of corruption: for of whom a man is overcome, of the same is he brought in bondage.

II Peter 2:20

For if after they have escaped the pollutions of the world through the knowledge of the Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, they are again entangled therein, and overcome, the latter end is worse with them than the beginning.

II Peter 2:21

For it had been better for them not to have known the way of righteousness, than, after they have known it, to turn from the holy commandment delivered unto them.

II Peter 2:22

But it is happened unto them according to the true proverb, The dog is turned to his own vomit again; and the sow that was washed to her wallowing in the mire.

Are you thinking about giving it up? Remember Lot's wife. Remember where God has brought you from.

*****

The Wings of a Dove

The Sole of a Dove's Foot

Thought to keep in mind: Noah sent forth a dove; God sent forth a lamb.

Scripture Reading – Genesis 8:6-12 (Read Scripture First)

And God remembered Noah and every living thing. There was water all across the earth and the mountains highest peaks were under water. And then Noah and his family of eight and those animals that God had led inside the ark were afloat upon the water of the earth.

Genesis 8:4

And the ark rested in the seventh month, on the seventeenth day of the month, upon the mountains of Ararat.

And on the seventh month, the top of the mountains were seen. At the end of the 40 days, Noah opened up the window of the ark and sent forth a raven.

Genesis 8:7

And he sent forth a raven, which went forth to and fro, until the waters were dried up from off the earth.

Genesis 8:8

Also he sent forth a dove from him, to see if the waters were abated from off the face of the ground;

Noah sent forth a dove to see if the waters had lowered. The Bible states that the dove found no rest for the sole of her foot and she returned back unto Noah. I thought about how Noah had sent forth a dove into the world and God sent forth a Lamb; the Lamb of God, Jesus Christ his son. God sent Jesus into the world to be born so he could live and die for you and me. If you study the Bible, the life of Jesus, you will find there was no rest for him until he returned to his father. Noah sent forth a dove into a flooded world destroyed by waters because of sin. Jesus, the Lamb of God, was sent into a dying, sin-sick world because of sin. By the shedding of his blood, sin is covered for everyone if they will accept him. The dove went out, found no rest and returned to the ark. The lamb (Jesus Christ) came, died, rose from the dead and returned to God his father.

Genesis 8:9

But the dove found no rest for the sole of her foot, and she returned unto him into the ark, for the waters were on the face of the whole earth: then he put forth his hand, and took her, and pulled her in unto him into the ark.

When the dove returned back unto Noah, he put forth his hands and pulled the dove unto him into the ark (LOVE). I believe that was the same way God reached forth his hands and pulled his son Jesus back with him after he rose from the dead and went back to heaven. I think that is how Jesus reaches out for me and you, today – Love. Noah stayed another seven days in the ark and Noah sent forth the dove a second time.

Genesis 8:10

And he stayed yet other seven days; and again he sent forth the dove out of the ark;

Genesis 8:11

And the dove came in to him in the evening; and, lo, in her mouth was an olive leaf pluckt off: so Noah knew that the waters were abated from off the earth.

And in the evening the dove returned to Noah and in her mouth was an olive leaf. In studying the message, I thought about how Jesus is coming back one day; he is going to come and get his people. Those people who are born again with their sins under his blood. Those who are ready. Are you ready? Are you going to be gathered for his harvest? You know, the dove which went out a second time brought back some fruits of its labor. Are you ready to go? Christians, are you bearing the fruits of your labor? If not, you need to check on something. You need to be doing something for the Lord. The Bible says that the harvest is plentiful but the laborers are few. I believe, if you are not ready, today is the day. Now is the time for no one knows when Jesus will come. Not even the angels in heaven or even Jesus knows. But, did you ever think about this? Before you take your next breath, God could say it is finished. Do you believe God calls all the shots? God is Almighty. What, when and how is up to him and no one else. Read your Bible. Jesus is the one we will stand before at the judgment. He will have the final say. But, God is the one who will pull the plug. He will say when we've had enough. The olive leaf was a sign unto Noah that was brought back by the dove when it was sent forth a second time. Will you be in the gathering when Jesus comes the second time? There is one thing about it, I don't believe there is going to be two or three loads. You better catch the first cloud out.

Genesis 8:12

And he stayed yet other seven days; and sent forth the dove; which returned not again unto him any more.

Noah stayed seven more days and sent forth the dove a third time. The Bible says that the dove never returned unto him. That is the way it is with Jesus. When he comes it will be over and there will be no more chances. YOU NEED to be ready at all times. ARE YOU? I wonder, when studying the message, why God would lead Noah to send forth a female dove. I believe Noah sent forth a female dove because she would look for a place to build a nest to start a new life in the new world. Those who are ready to go need to keep their eyes, heart and mind on heaven for the great day of the coming of Jesus Christ when we shall be carried away to a new life and a new home. It will be a place of no more sorrows, tears, pain or torment. Keep your eyes on Jesus. Keep your eyes on heaven.

Matthew 24:36

But of that day and hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels of heaven, but my Father only.

Matthew 24:37

But as the days of No'e were, so shall also the coming of the Son of man be.

Matthew 24:38

For as in the days that were before the flood, they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day that No'e entered into the ark,

Look around you. Take time to stop and really see the world as it really is. I believe, we are entering into the days of Noah. Are you ready? Have you really ever thought about dying and where you will be? Will it be heaven or hell? Nobody really wants to go to hell. God doesn't want you to go and neither does Jesus. Have you accepted Jesus Christ in your heart? Are your sins under his blood? Noah sent for a dove and God sent forth a lamb. Praise God and his holy name.

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

Genesis 8:7

And he sent forth a raven, which went forth to and fro, until the waters were dried up from off the earth.

Noah sent forth the raven. I thought about how the church world is today. They are like the raven which went to and fro. They never brought forth any fruits of their labors. Christians, now is the time to labor for the fields are white and ripe for the harvest.

Matthew 9:37

Then saith he unto his disciples, The harvest truly is plenteous, but the laborers are few;

Matthew 9:38

Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he will send forth laborers into his harvest.

Are you tired? Are you seeking rest and peace of mind? I pray you will find Jesus. I pray you find peace and rest for your soul. Only through Jesus will you find these things. Seek him while he is near. Seek him while he may be found.

*****

The Wings of a Dove

Letting Some Things Go

Mark 10:17

And when he was gone forth into the way, there came one running, and kneeled to him and asked him, Good Master, what shall I do that I may inherit eternal life?

Mark 10:18

And Jesus said to him, Why callest thou me good? there is none good but one, that is, God.

Mark 10:19

Thou knowest the commandments, Do not commit adultery, Do not kill, Do not steal, Do not bear false witness, Defraud not, Honour thy father and mother.

Mark 10:20

And he answered and said unto him, Master, all these I have observed from my youth.

Mark 10:21

Then Jesus beholding him loved him, and said unto him, One thing thou lackest: go thy way, sell whatsoever thou hast, and give it to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come, take up the cross, and follow me.

Mark 10:22

And he was sad at that saying, and went away grieved: for he had great possessions.

I believe, it would be safe to say, that we all could do better. We all have room for improvement. At least I know I do. No matter how much we learn or how hard we try, we can always find areas in our lives to improve or make better. None of us are perfect. I can, at times, find areas in my life that I need to change. There are things I need to overcome and things I need to improve. At the same time, I have areas in good shape. However, new areas will always arise that I have never begun to touch the surface. There are the areas I could polish up and some that it's just not time for, yet. I believe, we should strive continuously, day by day, to reach the goal of Godly perfection that we as born again believers need to do. We should do a daily self-examination of our hearts and lives, the good and the bad, to determine what we need to work on and work out with God. We don't have to have someone to tell us our faults and problems. All we have to do is look in our heart with honest, open eyes and let God show us what he sees in us and we'll have plenty of work to do. At least, I know I do. Some of it we won't like, some of it we will not want to accept and some of it will appear too hard for us to change. But, I believe, when we make that total, complete commitment in our heart and life unto Christ, then and only then, will those things that the Lord shows us about ourselves will bring us closer to our heavenly home. Letting something go doesn't always happen overnight. It can but most likely it won't. It takes a life-long committed service unto God daily for us to be molded and shaped in to that of his will and not ours.

Here was a young man who came to Jesus and asked what he could do to inherit eternal life. He, I believe, was a good person. A good, moral person who knew right from wrong and had kept all the laws. But, you see, Jesus looked into his heart and knew something wasn't right. And, Jesus replied to him.

Mark 10:21

Then Jesus, beholding him loved him, and said unto him, One thing thou lackest, go thy way, sell whatsoever thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come, take up the cross, and follow me.

Mark 10:22

And he was sad at that saying, and went away grieved: for he had great possessions.

It wasn't the money Jesus had the problem with. It was where the young man's love was which was in his money and possessions. We are to love the Lord with all our heart, mind, soul and strength. Seek first the kingdom of God, his righteousness and all the other things will be added unto us. I believe, we all have things in our lives that we need to let go of that are holding us back, stealing from us, robbing from us and hindering us from our relationship with God. Too many times, we allow little things no bigger than a mole hill to become a mountain in our lives that we need to let go of. If not, it will greatly impact us at judgment (only the pure at heart will see God). This young man probably thought he had it all figured out but he failed to search his heart with honest, open eyes.

I wonder, how it is with you, today, on letting some things go. A lot of times, we think within ourselves or listen to the devil and believe we have it all worked out and it's all taken care of. We feel as if we're on our way to glory. Let me ask you. Are you really sure? Have you searched your heart with honest, open eyes or are you just seeing and accepting what you want? The word of God tells me that I am no saint and if I'll look at my old self I can find plenty of work that needs to be done.

As long as we dwell in the fleshly body, we're going to have problems and troubles. We are going to have the spiritual battles and we are going to lose a few from time to time by giving over to the flesh. But, that's where the work begins in order for us to strive for Godly perfection. Letting go of something is not so easy to do, at times. There have been times, with the Lord and his spiritual help, that I have been able to overcome things without much trouble. However, there are things I have dealt with for a long time that were just too hard to let go. And, there are things I am still working on. But, praise God, I have made progress with his help.

Jeremiah 18:1

The word which came to Jeremiah from the Lord, saying:

Jeremiah 18:2

Arise and go down to the potter's house, and there I will cause thee to hear my words.

Jeremiah 18:3

Then I went down to the potter's house, and, behold, he wrought a work on the wheels.

Jeremiah 18:4

And the vessel that he made of clay was marred in the hand of the potter; so he made it again another vessel, as it seemed good to the potter to make it.

Jeremiah 18:5

Then the word of the Lord came to me, saying:

Jeremiah 18:6

O house of Israel, cannot I do with you as this potter? saith the Lord. Behold, as the clay is in the potter's hand, so are ye in mine hand, O house of Israel.

But, so much for me; I know I have a long way to go. But what about you? What do you see in your heart and life? Is there any molding or shaping that needs to be done? Are there any impurities that are not pleasing to God? Can you, today, begin to let some things go and let Jesus mold you as clay in his hands and shape your life in to what it ought to be? But, first the question is, do you see anything wrong? Second, will you let him help you? I truly believe, it is so easy to sit back and see the faults and failures of others and fail to see your own. I'm talking about forgetting about everyone else and putting your eyes on SELF. Honestly, what do you see in your life? I have come a long way, it seems, in just a short amount of time since I got up from that altar of prayer and walked away as a born again Christian. In just my short time, with the Lords help, I have achieved many things within my old self. And, yet, each day I still find more work to be done. A lot of things are over with and in my past. But, there are still things I deal with, today. However, with God's help, I will put them to rest as well. There is still some molding and shaping that needs to be done. I'm not talking about practicing sin. I'm talking about feelings, attitudes and love. Things you are faced with continually as a Christian are the little things you need to let go of like hurt, rejection, bitterness, hate, prejudice and so on. How do you stand on loving your enemy, praying for those who spitefully use you, turning the other cheek, jealousy, envy, strife, grudges, vanity, vain glory, forgiving others, pride, lust of the eyes and lust of the flesh? Do you have them in control or are they controlling you? Those are just a few things you, as a born again believer in Christ, are faced with that I truly believe could be improved. You need to always be found on your knees prepared for the Lord and prepared for the battle. Let me leave you with these thoughts. How is it, today, with you on letting go of some things? Will you examine yourself with honest, open eyes? I wonder, will you let go?

~~~~~

As the dark, stormy clouds began to move out and open up, the clear blue sky began to appear as the light of the sun began to shine through. High in the opening, in the clouds, I looked and saw an eagle soaring about as the last drop of rain fell upon my face. The storm had lingered for many days. As I made my way through of all my troubles, I prayed and cried unto the Lord that the storm would soon pass. I asked if he would be with me and bring me through. And, he did. For I was liken to a fallen sparrow; I was drowning in my life's storms of troubles. He took my hand, guided my steps, held me close to his heart, delivered me and set me free. He filled and touched my heart through his love with his spirit, dried my eyes and gave me peace. Then, from his heart, he spoke to me and said, "I love you, my child." My heart spoke back to him. "I love you, too, my Lord." Then, I took flight and soared with the eagle to the heavens above.

Bobby A. Troutt

*****

The Wings of a Dove

Playing It Too Close

Matthew 26:69

Now Peter sat without in the palace: and a damsel came unto him, saying, Thou also wast with Jesus of Galilee.

Matthew 26:70

But he denied before them all, saying, I know not what thou sayest.

Matthew 26:71

And when he was gone out into the porch, another maid saw him, and said unto them that were there, This fellow was also with Jesus of Nazareth.

Matthew 26:72

And again he denied with an oath, I do not know the man.

Matthew 26:73

And after a while came unto him they that stood by, and said to Peter, Surely thou also art one of them; for thy speech bewrayeth thee.

Matthew 26:74

Then began he to curse and to swear, saying, I know not the man. And immediately the cock crew.

Matthew 26:75

And Peter remembered the word of Jesus, which said unto him, Before the cock crow, thou shalt deny me thrice. And he went out, and wept bitterly.

We all, or at least most of us, have played it too close at one time or another in our lives. Jesus told Peter he would deny him thrice before the cock crows. I just wonder, how many times have we played it too close and denied Christ in our heart and life? How many times has the Lord spoken to us about this or that or told us to get things right with him? And we say I know not what thou says. How close do we play it to see if we can just get by? How many times have we heard the word of God when he speaks to us but in our heart we say we don't know what he's saying? Playing it too close is a dangerous thing to do. When the Lord speaks to us we need to be humble, take heed and answer his call. Peter denied Jesus the second time with an oath by saying he did not know the man. I want to say, today, there are a lot of people who claim to know him. However, you can't tell it by the fruits they bear or by the way they live. If that is the way they are, they would be better off not knowing him. Playing it too close, playing church and playing games with God is cutting it too close. For, the moment may come when we least expect it and we may stand before the judgment unprepared and not ready because in our heart we have played it too close by saying we do not know the man. I wonder if we are liken unto Peter by saying we do not know the man? Do you know Jesus, today? If so, have you forgotten all he did for you? Peter was a man who was in a tight situation and under a great deal of pressure. If he ever needed Jesus, he needed him then. But, what did he do instead of calling on the Lord? He denied him. Maybe, today, you are turning your back on him. Maybe you are playing it too close. I wonder, will you deny him again? Peter began to curse the third time of his denial. Once again, he said he did not know the man and the cock crowed. Peter remembered what Jesus had said so he went out and wept bitterly. How far will you go? How close will you play it? What kind of a shape will you have to get in before you will recognize the truth? Peter pushed it to the limit. Although Peter denied Christ three times, the Bible says after he denied him three times he went out and wept bitterly. I believe he made things right with the Lord. Will you, today, if you are turning your back on the Lord, continue to deny him? Or, will you come to the realization of the truth and play it safe instead of playing it so close?

Matthew 26:33

Peter answered and said unto him, Though all men shall be offended because of thee, yet will I never be offended.

Matthew 26:34

Jesus said unto him, Verily I say unto thee, That this night, before the cock crow, thou shalt deny me thrice.

Matthew 26:35

Peter said unto him, Though I should die with thee, yet will I not deny thee. Likewise also said all the disciples.

And, we find that after Jesus' resurrection in –

John 21:15

So when they had dined, Jesus saith to Simon Peter, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me more than these? He saith unto him, Yea, Lord; thou knowest that I love thee. He saith unto him, Feed my lambs.

John 21:16

He saith to him again the second time, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me? He saith unto him, Yea, Lord; thou knowest that I love thee. He saith unto him, Feed my sheep.

John 21:17

He saith unto him the third time, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me? Peter was grieved because he said unto him the third time, Lovest thou me? And he said unto him, Lord, thou knowest all things; thou knowest that I love thee. Jesus saith unto him, Feed my sheep.

Jesus asked Peter three times, "Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me?" And, Peter said, "Yea, Lord, thou knowest that I love thee."

*****

The Wings of a Dove

A World of Loose Ends

John 9:1

And as Jesus passed by, he saw a man which was blind from his birth.

John 9:2

And his disciples asked him, saying, Master, who did sin, this man, or his parents, that he was born blind?

John 9:3

Jesus answered, Neither hath this man sinned, nor his parents: but that the works of God should be made manifest in him.

John 9:4

I must work the works of him that sent me, while it is day: the night cometh, when no man can work.

John 9:5

As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world.

John 9:6

When he had thus spoken, he spat on the ground, and made clay of the spittle, and he anointed the eyes of the blind man with the clay,

John 9:7

And said unto him, Go, wash in the pool of Siloam, (which is by interpretation, Sent.) He went his way therefore, and washed, and came seeing.

John 9:8

The neighbours therefore, and they which before had seen him that he was blind, said, Is not this he that sat and begged?

John 9:9

Some said, This is he: others said, He is like him: but he said, I am he.

John 9:10

Therefore said they unto him, How were thine eyes opened?

John 9:11

He answered and said, A man that is called Jesus made clay, and anointed mine eyes, and said unto me, Go to the pool of Siloam, and wash: and I went and washed, and I received sight.

John 9:12

Then said they unto him, Where is he? He said, I know not.

There is a whole world out there of people with loose ends. There are people coming and going and there are those who are sitting and waiting with the loose ends of their life, without hope or promise. I know and remember my life before I gave my heart and life to Christ. I had my share of loose ends. There were the endless dreams for my life, the places I wanted to go and the things I wanted to do. But, it all was void and empty and dangled from loose ends of trials, troubles and defeats. Why, because of me! It wasn't until I accepted Christ in my life that I began to see the fulfillment of all those loose ends begin to work together for the glory of God and not the glory of me. It was when I completely surrendered all and let Christ be my master. When I became his servant, the loose ends of my life manifested unto a life of dreams coming true and peace with God. When we have that, we have it all. Here was a blind man Jesus saw who was blind at birth. This man, we don't know, may have been like so many others. His life may have had many loose ends. He was physically blind at birth and so are we. However, we are spiritually blinded at birth until we receive Christ. This man was blind. He had never been able to see before until the day Jesus came by. I remember my life of living in spiritual darkness, being blinded by sin, my hopes and dreams hanging from loose ends and never accomplishing this or that. My life was just a blind shell of a fleshly body with wants and desires unpleasing to God. It wasn't until I was born again unto the spirit of God, through the blood bought birth of the shed blood of Christ, the son of God, when my eyes were opened unto the truth and I was set free. It wasn't until then that my world of loose ends, goals and ambitions began to come together and work together for the cause of Christ and helping others. The disciples asked if he had sinned or if his parents had sinned since he was born physically blind. Jesus told them neither had.

John 9:3

Jesus answered, Neither hath this man sinned, nor his parents: but that the works of God should be made manifest in him.

Because of Adam in the Garden of Eden, we all are born in this world sinners and are spiritually blind with the wanting desires to make peace with God through his son Jesus Christ. We all need, before it is too late, to take care of the loose ends. We owe it to ourselves. Heaven or Hell? This man had not sinned but, yet, he may have wanted and dreamed that someday he would see. And, Jesus came by, his eyes were opened and he received his sight. The world is full of people with loose ends.

John 9:5

As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world.

Jesus spat on the ground, made clay of spittle and anointed the eyes of the blind man with the clay. Jesus told him to go wash in the pool of Siloam. There comes a time in our lives that we need to quit sitting around. We need to do our part to take care of the things in our lives; the things we need to take care of. There are things only we can do and the most important thing is to make all things right with the Lord. We have to let Jesus work and bless us in our heart and life by allowing him to bring our loose ends into his will and not ours. We need to get the things of this world out of our eyes that so blinds us and go and do as Jesus said. Go wash in the pool (in some cases, clean our acts up).

Matthew 6:33

But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.

Matthew 6:34

Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof.

When we seek first the kingdom of God with all our hearts and mind, I believe our loose ends will begin to have a fuller meaning to us and to others. Maybe, today, our world is full of loose ends and we don't know what to do. If we seek the kingdom of God and his righteousness, our heart and life will have a true and beautiful meaning. Our world, today, is filled with countless numbers of people with unsatisfied loose ends. I ask, what did the blind man do? He did what Jesus told him to do. How did he come out? His eyes were opened; he could see. What about you, today? Will you let Jesus work a work in your heart and life? Maybe, today, your eyes need to be opened.

John 9:1

And as Jesus passed by, he saw a man which was blind from his birth.

Amazing grace, how sweet thou sound, that saved a wretch like me. I once was lost but now I'm found, I was blind, but now, I see.

*****

The Wings of a Dove

Take it to the Lord in Prayer (Everybody Has an Opinion)

James 5:17

Elias was a man subject to like passions as we are, and he prayed earnestly that it might not rain: and it rained not on the earth by the space of three years and six months.

James 5:18

And he prayed again, and the heaven gave rain, and the earth brought forth her fruit.

(The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much)

Take it to the Lord in prayer; everybody has an opinion. It is good to talk to others and it is good to get their opinion and advice from time to time. They may share with you what they think and how they feel but what they think and feel sometimes is not what the Lord's will is for you (sometimes it is). That is why it is so important to try the spirits and see if they are of God.

I John 4:1

Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world.

I John 4:2

Hereby know ye the Spirit of God: Every spirit that confesseth that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is of God:

A lot of the time, when we pray, we don't always get our answer right then (sometimes we do). But, a lot of the time, we have to wait upon the Lord, wait upon his will, his time and his way. Just because you don't get your answer right off doesn't mean the Lord is not going to answer your question (we must be patient). Sometimes, the Lord answers our prayers and we fail to see the movement of our answered prayer because we are looking for the Lord to answer our way and we fail to see him do it his way (he knows what is best). Some people think that we should not take everything to the Lord in prayer and we shouldn't bother the Lord with petty things. That is okay, too. But, I personally believe we need the Lord to be in every aspect of our life regardless of how big or small the issue is. To me, the Lord is just as important in the little things as the big (this is my opinion). Some say he will not do for us what we can do for ourselves (this is true). We must pull our weight and he will pull his. We should work together and let Jesus lead the way. Praying in doubt and unbelief has probably hindered more prayers from being answered than anything else. If we are going to pray and talk to the Lord and not fully believe, then why should we even bother if we are doubting. We must believe. We must have faith. We must trust in the Lord. I am a firm believer that prayer can change things. Prayer can make a difference. Do you believe that prayer can change tears of sadness to tears of joy? Well, it can. Prayer can make a difference between heaven and hell, the eternal life hereafter. Prayer is the key that unlocks doors. But, we must believe without doubt. I believe we should pray without ceasing by having a prayerful mind and spirit for others and ourselves and continually praying in the spirit and the will of God. I, too, believe we should have a burden upon our hearts and a concerned spirit. However, we don't believe then our prayer is in vain? I truly believe the fulfillment of our request is by prayer unto Christ by believing in trust and in patience and walking strictly by faith. We have to bring our request before the Lord in faith and believe. We have to put it in the hands of Christ, leave it and wait upon his will. When we do this, I believe, we will begin to see the Lord work on our prayers as his will is to be. Take it to the Lord in prayer. Everybody has an opinion. You have read mine. What about yours?

Luke 11:9

And I say unto you, Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.

Luke 11:10

For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.

~~~~~

I stood in the valley after a long day's night and my journey through it was troubled on all sides. The stormy darkness that surrounded me blinded me so that I could not see any light. For, my hopes fell short as I cried out unto the Lord. I was beaten, battered, torn and tried with fire. All my hopes were nearly gone and I felt so all alone. I could not see the end nor the light of day. My troubles beset me as I struggled to make a way. The valley seemed so dark, so long and so deep. I fell to my knees and began to pray unto the Lord. The depression weighed heavy upon me. I didn't believe I could go on. I was tired and weak; I had gone as far as I could go. I thought I had done everything I could or so I thought. But, when I looked back, I found that I had not surrendered it all unto the Lord. There were some things that I still held on to. When I let it all go, a light appeared and the Lord took me by the hand and guided me out of the darkness onto the mountain top above. There, I found rest and peace in the Lord for my troubled soul. I asked him, "Lord, why did I have to walk it alone?" He replied, "I reached out for you but you turned me away. You didn't trust me, my child. You held back and wouldn't let it all go. I have been with you all along. It was me that carried you in my arms and brought you through your troubled days."

*****

The Wings of a Dove

Gone Fishin'

John 21:1

After these things Jesus shewed himself again to the disciples at the sea of Tiberias; and on this wise shewed he himself.

John 21:2

There were together Simon Peter, and Thomas called Didymus, and Nathanael of Cana in Galilee, and the sons of Zebedee, and two other of his disciples.

John 21:3

Simon Peter saith unto them, I go a fishing. They say unto him, We also go with thee. They went forth, and entered into a ship immediately: and that night they caught nothing.

John 21:4

But when the morning was now come, Jesus stood on the shore: but the disciples knew not that it was Jesus.

John 21:5

Then Jesus saith unto them, Children, have ye any meat? They answered him, No.

John 21:6

And he said unto them, Cast the net on the right side of the ship, and ye shall find. They cast therefore, and now they were not able to draw it for the multitude of fishes.

John 21:7

Therefore that disciple whom Jesus loved saith unto Peter, It is the Lord. Now when Simon Peter heard that it was the Lord, he girt his fisher's coat unto him, (for he was naked,) and did cast himself into the sea.

John 21:8

And the other disciples came in a little ship; (for they were not far from land, but as it were two hundred cubits,) dragging the net with fishes.

I remember a time in my life when all I wanted to do was fish. It was all in this world that mattered to me. But, now in my lazy years, I have gotten away from it but I still have the fond memories. It has been a long time since I have been fishing (for fish). There are a lot of good quality points in life, in fishing, that can yet help us in so many ways today. Jesus teaches us to be fishers of men. There is a great big world out there with plenty of catch. And, we, as born again believers in Christ, have our work cut out for us. When going fishing, one must be well prepared in this world we are living in. We need to face each day well prepared, prayed up, fully equipped and well established in God's word and his will. A good fisherman will be fully equipped with the tools he needs to do the job he wants to do. He will be ready for the unexpected, the snags, the bluffs and the thickets. We, as born again believers in Christ, must walk in full and complete obedience with God by stepping life's path in humbleness, honesty and sincerity. We must walk with a well-established heart in the word of God and a heart and mind fully based on faith and the love of God. A good fisherman, before he goes out, should check his equipment and see if it is ready to do the job. Before we, as Christians, go out into the world, we need to do a self-evaluation of ourselves. We need to be where we ought to be with the Lord so that we will be effective in the work of God's will. We need to walk worthy of our calling so we can be a shining light in this dark and dying world. Some fishing is done sitting on the banks which is fine if it is sufficient for the cause. However, sometimes one must wade out into the deep. There comes certain times, Christians, when we need to put forth a little effort and get out there where the fish are. Christians, it is time to get off the banks and wade out into the deep where the Lord can use us to the best of our ability. A wise fisherman will use the right kind of bait to catch the fish he is fishing for. Christians, the right kind of bait for fishers of men is the word of God. It is the seed to be sowed in the field so the Lord can bring forth a harvest. Sure, when we go out, Christians, into the world, sometimes we cast out in the thickets, snags and bluffs. Sure, we may think all is lost but trust in the Lord and keep the faith. If you are careful and patient, the line and hook may unsnag and good will come from it because we may get a bite while we are reeling it in. A good fisherman doesn't use a boat in a small creek and doesn't use a cane pole in the middle of a lake. We also want to use the right kind of rod-n-reel, cane pole or fly rod to do the job we need to do. We, as born again believers in Christ, have the leadership of the Holy Ghost of God to guide and teach us in the will of God. We just need to take heed and listen. If we can catch them, Jesus will clean them. Some fishermen go after the big catch and throw the little ones back in. Others go for anything; they just love to fish. God wants us all no matter what the catch.

Matthew 28:19

Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:

Matthew 28:20

Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world. Amen.

We may be a big fish, today, swimming along the banks of a big lake or we might be a small, shiny minnow in a creek somewhere. But, we still mean it all to the Lord. Jesus died for us and God loves us.

John 3:16

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

John 3:17

For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.

We may be a fisherman on a big fishing boat dragging the ocean with nets full of fish or a small child wading in a creek with a tiny fish on the hook of a cane pole. The Lord uses us to the best of our ability. He takes what he has given us to accomplish what he wants it to be. We just need to be ready to go. I wonder, today, can we say Lord, here am I? A good fisherman knows, too, the right kind of lures to use. We, as Christians, use love, patience, longsuffering, faith, obedience and forgiveness. We have to use the fruits of the spirits as our lures. I wonder, today, if the life we are living would be a lure to the lost in the world that God could uses to draw the lost to him. Think how happy a fisherman is when he brings home a stringer full of fish and, yet, how happy a little boy is when he comes home with one tiny blue gill on his string. I believe the Lord is pleased with all our efforts in the work of his kingdom. Just a footnote before I take off and go fishing. Sometimes the little catch can put up a better fight than a big catch. But, with Godly love and patience, we can win them with the Lord. We all are important in the eyes of God and he doesn't want any of us to slip off the hook or slip through the net. How is it with you, today, in your ability to catch the catch by being a fisherman of men? Are you ready? Are you prepared? Let us go fishing.

John 21:15

So when they had dined, Jesus saith to Simon Peter, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me more than these? He saith unto him, Yea, Lord; thou knowest that I love thee. He saith unto him, Feed my lambs.

*****

The Wings of a Dove

It Doesn't Matter How a Person Dies, It is How They Stand Before the Judgement

Hebrews 9:27

And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment:

Hebrews 9:28

So Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many; and unto them that look for him shall he appear the second time without sin unto salvation.

A person could die from a heart attack, cancer, stroke, old age, car wreck, unforeseen- circumstance and so on. We all will, one day, face death when our appointed time comes. It is not so important how or which way a person dies but, more importantly, how one stands before Christ at the judgement.

Ecclesiastes 11:3

If the clouds be full of rain, they empty themselves upon the earth: and if the tree fall toward the south, or toward the north, in the place where the tree falleth, there it shall be.

Whichever way a person shall die will be how they will stand before Christ at the judgement. If they die lost and unprepared, they will stand at the judgement lost and unprepared. Death gives no second chances. If they die prepared and saved, by and through the blood of Jesus Christ, they will stand prepared and saved. Death is a sure thing; it will definitely come to us all whether we have made preparation or not. Sometimes death comes early in life, even to a child. While, yet, death may linger until a person is very old in age, choosing the end results of a person's death (the eternal part) is solely up to that individual. I truly believe that God gives each and every individual ample time to make those preparations for death. When one stands before the throne of Christ at the judgement, they will not be able to blame anyone else, point no finger or make any excuses because they won't be accepted. The individual that failed to be prepared will be the one to blame. I truly believe that a person should carefully consider where they will spend eternity. They should live each day as if it's their last and strive for Godly daily living so they can one day hear Christ tell them to enter in.

Revelation 22:11

He that is unjust, let him be unjust still: and he which is filthy, let him be filthy still: and he that is righteous, let him be righteous still: and he that is holy, let him be holy still.

Revelation 22:12

And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be.

Revelation 22:13

I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end, the first and the last.

Revelation 22:14

Blessed are they that do his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city.

Today is the day of salvation for tomorrow you may stand before the judgement. My questions are. Have you made plans? Are you prepared to die? Are you ready to face Christ at judgement? It is not so important how or which way you die. It is the judgement which will tell how you spend eternity.

Matthew 16:24

Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.

Matthew 16:25

For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it.

Matthew 16:26

For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?

If you gain it all from this world and all that it holds but die lost without God, you have lost it all. For, you will take nothing with you when you die. All you will be able to do is give an account of the life you have lived.

I Corinthians 15:55

O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory?

I Corinthians 15:56

The sting of death is sin; and the strength of sin is the law.

I Corinthians 15:57

But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.

Death, where is thy sting? Grave, where is thy victory? The victory is in Christ the son of God. You don't have to die unprepared. God has made a way through his son. Will you, today, choose freely in your heart to choose Christ and be prepared to face death and the grave in victory? Or, will you turn away with hope that there will be another tomorrow?

John 14:1

Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me.

John 14:2

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.

John 14:3

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 14:4

And whither I go ye know, and the way ye know.

John 14:5

Thomas saith unto him, Lord, we know not whither thou goest; and how can we know the way?

John 14:6

Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.

It doesn't matter how a person dies but how they will stand before the judgement. People this very minute, all around the world, are facing death from old age, car wrecks, suicides, overdoses, drunk driving, wars, murders, shootings, stabbings, poisons, rapes, kidnappings and all kinds of diseases as you are reading this. I wonder, are they prepared and are they ready to stand before the judgement?

~~~~~

The night laid a new blanket of snow on the ground. As I put another log on the fire, the wood sizzled from what sap was left in the wood. The fire cracked and popped as the smoke disappeared up the chimney. The room was warm and comfortable. The smell of the burning wood filled the air as the fireplace lit up the room with an orange and yellow glow. Lying on the hearth was a hammer and the empty walnut and hickory nut shells where I had cracked open and dug out the goodies with a bobby pin. The mantle was dressed with stockings and Christmas cards along with twigs of cedar with red ribbons, Christmas balls and blinking lights. The smell of cedar accented the room as the fresh smell of baked pies and Christmas dinner was prepared in the nearby kitchen. The Christmas tree stood bold; it was all dressed with holiday treats of Christmas, popcorn ropes, different colors of balls, lights, icicles, candy canes and popcorn balls. An angel sat at the top of the tree watching over it all. Beneath the tree were gifts wrapped in Christmas paper and bows. In the center of the mantle, my favorite of all, sat the manger scene with baby Jesus, Joseph, Mary, animals, shepherds and wise men, too. I wish each of you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

*****

The Wings of a Dove

The Greatest of all Rewards is to Hear Christ Say, Enter in Good and Faithful Servant

Matthew 25:31

When the Son of man shall come in his glory, and all the holy angels with him, then shall he sit upon the throne of his glory:

Matthew 25:32

And before him shall be gathered all nations: and he shall separate them one from another, as a shepherd divideth his sheep from the goats:

Matthew 25:33

And he shall set the sheep on his right hand, but the goats on the left.

Matthew 25:34

Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world:

Matthew 25:35

For I was an hungred, and ye gave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me in:

Matthew 25:36

Naked, and ye clothed me: I was sick, and ye visited me: I was in prison, and ye came unto me.

Matthew 25:37

Then shall the righteous answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee an hungred, and fed thee? or thirsty, and gave thee drink?

Matthew 25:38

When saw we thee a stranger, and took thee in? or naked, and clothed thee?

Matthew 25:39

Or when saw we thee sick, or in prison, and came unto thee?

Matthew 25:40

And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.

Matthew 25:41

Then shall he say also unto them on the left hand, Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels:

Matthew 25:42

For I was an hungred, and ye gave me no meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me no drink:

Matthew 25:43

I was a stranger, and ye took me not in: naked, an ye clothed me not: sick, and in prison, and ye visited me not.

Matthew 25:44

Then shall they also answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee an hungred, or athirst, or a stranger, or naked, or sick, or in prison, and did not minister unto thee?

Matthew 25:45

Then shall he answer them, saying, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye did it not to one of the least of these, ye did it not to me.

Matthew 25:46

And these shall go away into everlasting punishment: but the righteous into life eternal.

The greatest of all miracles, to me, is salvation through Jesus Christ our Lord. The greatest of all rewards, to me, is to hear Christ say, enter in good and faithful servant. For without these two and living your life for Christ each day you would fail to hear him say enter in. The mansion, the streets of gold, walls of jasper and gates of pearl would be meaningless if you didn't hear him say enter in. All the trouble, pain and suffering that you carried and bore upon this earth to hear Christ say enter in, one day, would be worth it all. All else would mean nothing if you failed to receive the greatest of all rewards.

Acts 1:9

And when he had spoken these things, while they beheld, he was taken up; and a cloud received him out of their sight.

Acts 1:10

And while they looked stedfastly toward heaven as he went up, behold, two men stood by them in white apparel;

Acts 1:11

Which also said, Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? this same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven.

How is it with you? Are you prepared and ready for the second coming of Christ? Are you ready to hear him say enter in good and faithful servant? Are you ready to meet him in the air? It will be a joyful time for some in his triumphant return while, yet, sad for others who are found unprepared. I don't believe any human could ever imagine what God has in store for those who shall enter in. Just to stand before the judgement, after all things are said and done, and hear Christ say enter in is worth all the treasure, gold, silver, precious jewels and gems you could ever receive. For, when you hear Christ say enter in, from that point on throughout eternity, you shall rejoice never ending to his blessed words of enter in. Are you excited? Are you rejoicing in what God has laid up for you? Will you be ready? Will you be found prepared without spot or blemish?

I Thessalonians 4:16

For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first:

I Thessalonians 4:17

Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord.

There will come a day, a moment and time of the second coming of Christ, and it will come when God the Father says it is time. No one knows or will ever know the time of his coming. But, he will come because God has said so. The main thing is to be ready, to live your life according to the teachings of Christ and God's word by the best of your ability and walk in complete obedience, love and faith in God and Christ his son. How would it be if Christ came today? Would you hear him say enter in?

Philippians 2:9

Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name:

Philippians 2:10

That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth;

Philippians 2:11

And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

I would rather shout and witness his name here, today, upon this earth before men knowing Christ as my savior and the Lord of my life than to stand before him at the judgement and never have known him. I do not want to hear him tell me to depart from him because he never knew me. The end of the world will come; a day of the second coming of Christ when we all will stand before Christ at the judgement to give an account of our lives. At that time, will you hear him say enter in good and faithful servant? Or, will you hear depart from me you workers of iniquity, I never knew you.

Revelation 20:11

And I saw a great white throne, and him that sat on it, from whose face the earth and the heaven fled away; and there was found no place for them.

Revelation 20:12

And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God; and the books were opened: and another book was opened, which is the book of life: and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works.

Revelation 20:13

And the sea gave up the dead which were in it; and death and hell delivered up the dead which were in them: and they were judged every man according to their works.

Revelation 20:14

And death and hell were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death.

Revelation 20:15

And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire.

How would you stand, this day, if judgement came? Would you stand having the greatest of all miracles which is salvation through Jesus Christ our Lord in your heart and life? Would you stand, today, prepared and ready to receive the greatest of all rewards and hear Christ say enter in good and faithful servant? Or, would you hear him say depart from me, I never knew you?

(Closing Scripture Reading: Revelation Chapters 21 and 22)

Is your heart and life ready to hear Christ say enter in?

*****

The Wings of a Dove

Going to the Mountain

Matthew 4:1

Then was Jesus led up of the spirit into the wilderness to be tempted of the devil.

Matthew 4:2

And when he had fasted forty days and forty nights, he was afterward an hungred.

Matthew 4:3

And when the tempter came to him, he said, If thou be the Son of God, command that these stones be made bread.

Matthew 4:4

But he answered and said, It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God.

Matthew 4:5

Then the devil taketh him up into the holy city, and setteth him on a pinnacle of the temple,

Matthew 4:6

And saith unto him, If thou be the Son of God, cast thyself down: for it is written, He shall give his angels charge concerning thee: and in their hands they shall bear thee up, lest at any time thou dash thy foot against a stone.

Matthew 4:7

Jesus said unto him, It is written again, Thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God.

Matthew 4:8

Again, the devil taketh him up into an exceeding high mountain, and sheweth him all the kingdoms of the world, and the glory of them;

Matthew 4:9

And saith unto him, All these things will I give thee, if thou wilt fall down and worship me.

Matthew 4:10

Then saith Jesus unto him, Get thee hence, Satan: for it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve.

Matthew 4:11

Then the devil leaveth him, and, behold, angels came and ministered unto him.

Then Jesus was led up of the spirit into the wilderness to be tempted of the devil. I want to say, it is a wilderness out there in this world we are living in. No one knows the pits, tricks and snares the devil has hidden in the wilderness of this world we are living in.

I Peter 5:8

Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:

The devil is on a full rampage to kill, steal and destroy all he can. If we do not stay close to God, we will fall into his camouflaged pits, be caught up in his snares and captured by his tricks. The devil tempted Jesus with all he had. I believe, the devil put Jesus through the ultimate test. But, Jesus endured. He stood steadfast and unmovable; he won the complete victory. Not only for himself but for all of those who will pick up the cross and follow him.

Matthew 4:3

And when the tempter came to him, he said, If thou be the Son of God, command that these stones be made bread.

Matthew 4:4

But he answered and said, It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God.

Matthew 4:5

Then the devil taketh him up into the holy city, and setteth him on a pinnacle of the temple,

Matthew 4:6

And saith unto him, If thou be the Son of God, cast thyself down: for it is written, He shall give his angels charge concerning thee: and in their hands they shall bear thee up, lest at any time thou dash thy foot against a stone.

Matthew 4:7

Jesus said unto him, It is written again, Thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God.

The devil will use every trick and device he can to deceive you and make you follow him.

James 1:12

Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him.

James 1:13

Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God: for God cannot be tempted with evil, neither tempteth he any man:

James 1:14

But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed.

James 1:15

Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death.

The devil knows you more than you probably know yourself. He knows what it takes to trigger you and make you fall. He knows your weaknesses and how to get to you. He will use your weaknesses as his greatest stronghold against you. You, as a born again believer in Christ, need to know your weaknesses and learn, through Christ, how to overcome them and get the victory over them so the devil will not have any stronghold on you. As long as you are held in bondage by your weaknesses, the devil will always have his foot in the door of your life to bring you down. Master your weaknesses, through Christ, unto a complete victory out of bondage and into complete freedom and liberty.

Matthew 4:8

Again, the devil taketh him up into an exceeding high mountain, and sheweth him all the kingdoms of the world, and the glory of them;

Matthew 4:9

And saith unto him, All these things will I give thee, if thou wilt fall down and worship me.

How many times, in your walk of life, has the old devil appeared unto you as an angel of light and opened your eyes to the things of the world so you would worship him? How many times has he taken you upon the mountain and promised you things that he had no control over? How many times has he appeared unto you with lies and deception which brought you down in defeat and near destruction? By taking you up on the mountain, the devil will show you all you want to see but, yet, fail to show you the dark valley below. How many times have you gone to the mountain and looked out across the world with lust in your eyes, lust of the flesh and the pride of life? How many times has the devil brought you upon the mountain such as he did Christ and said all these things I will give thee if thou wilt fall down and worship me?

Matthew 4:10

Then saith Jesus unto him, Get the hence, Satan: for it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve.

Let me ask you, today, who are you serving? Is it God or is it the devil? Who, today, are you standing upon the mountain with? Is it God in the blood brought victory or is it the devil in defeat, sin and bondage? Let me ask you. Will you keep on selling out to sin and the devil for the pleasure of sin for a short season? Will you continue going to the mountain to serve the devil or will you repent, come to Christ, be saved, forgiven and have peace and joy in your heart and life? You need, this day, to choose who you are to serve. I pray you will choose Christ and live eternally. I truly believe, you have enough trouble as it is, along with your share of the long dark valleys, that you don't need to go to the mountain to talk with the devil and look for more trouble.

Matthew 4:11

Then the devil leaveth him, and, behold, angels came and ministered unto him.

The devil will leave for a while, a short season, but be careful and be on guard because he will be back. He will do his best to take you back upon the mountain and show you all things. I wonder, will you go? The devil took Jesus upon the mountain to show him all the things of the world. Jesus went upon a hill called Calvary and showed you the greatest thing there ever was, eternal life.

~~~~~

Even though the days are gloomy and the overcast of clouds laid heavy in the grayish sky after several days of rain, I searched for the light that I might see a sign of hope for brighter days. The depression lurked at my doorstep, tried to dim my light of hope and captured me in its grip. But, I must not give in because I will get caught off guard and fall. I cried out unto the Lord that he would be with me and bring me through. For, in him and him alone is my only true hope. The enemy has seemed to surround me and is trying to bring me down from every side. The struggle to hold on seems more that I can bear. Then, when all seemed lost, I looked up unto my Lord with all my heart and his spirit bore witness to mine that everything was going to be alright. With only a touch of faith, the heavens opened up as my darkness disappeared. I replied unto the Lord, "I love you, Lord, so much."

*****

The Wings of a Dove

A Troubled Heart

John 11:35

Jesus wept.

Jesus wept when Lazarus died. Christians, are we being burdened by the concern for our lost loved ones and the other lost souls dying in sin in this world? I believe we, as born again believers in Christ, need to have a troubled heart for the people who are lost and dying lost in our world every day. We need to be concerned about them regardless of who they are, where they're from and what they have done. We need to cry out unto God in prayer for these souls to be saved because the time is growing near for the second coming of Christ; death tarries for no one. It is because Christians, today, have become unconcerned and satisfied within themselves and have lost the burden of seeing lost souls saved? Are their hearts far from that because they have become relaxed and content. I believe, we need, today, to have a stirring of our heart with love and compassion for all. We need to have a troubled heart for the condition of our world and the ways of people, today. I believe, a lot of it is far from God and only a trouble-hearted Christian crying out unto God will help make a difference. There are many, today, and many yesterday who have slipped off into hell, died lost in sin and unprepared while, probably, a lot of the church world slept. The Bible said Jesus wept. If Jesus wept then he set an example of love, mercy, forgiveness, compassion for others and was concerned and troubled about others. I wonder, how is it with you, today? Is your heart troubled? Are you concerned? John 11:1-46 (Lazarus' Death). There comes a time when we lose loved ones, friends, family and others who are dear to us and giving them up is not so easy to do. There are many who leave this world prepared and ready for the things God has prepared for his children. But, yet, at the same time, there are many who die lost in sin and are unprepared. I believe, we all, a lot of the time, take life for granted. We all, at times, feel and act like we'll live forever and we have plenty of time. And, it is so easy to slip in to attitudes of unconcern and of being relaxed. We put off, we fail to do and we never get around to doing the things to get ourselves ready or help others find the way. If at any time in our world, today, I believe, it is now that we should bear a troubled heart for others. Today is the day; not tomorrow but today is the day to pray, seek God the Father and Christ his son in humble, honest, sincere and earnest prayer for ourselves and others.

John 11:33

When Jesus therefore saw her weeping, and the Jews also weeping which came with her, he groaned in the spirit, and was troubled.

John 11:34

And said, Where have ye laid him? They said unto him, Lord, come and see.

John 11:35

Jesus wept.

John 11:36

Then said the Jews, Behold how he loved him!

Jesus saw them weeping; he groaned in the spirit and was troubled. Jesus wept. Then said the Jews, "Behold how he loved him." I wonder, where is our love, compassion, mercy and forgiveness toward others? How are we measuring up as Christians against Christ's teaching, God's word and his plumline? Probably, at times, we are troubled and burdened for others. But, we don't live for tomorrow, we live for today. And, each day, we as born again believers in Christ, should strive daily to pray without ceasing, fast and let our hearts be troubled with the love for lost souls to be saved.

Matthew 9:35

And Jesus went about all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing every sickness and every disease among the people.

Matthew 9:36

But when he saw the multitudes, he was moved with compassion on them, because they fainted, and were scattered abroad, as sheep having no shepherd.

Matthew 9:37

Then saith he unto his disciples, The harvest truly is plenteous, but the labourers are few;

Matthew 9:38

Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he will send forth labourers into his harvest.

If we, today, as Christians, were as burdened as Christ was for us, we'd see a larger number of people more ready to go and more prepared to face the judgment. (Matthew 26:36-46) We find here that Jesus was in the garden praying for the Lord to let this cup pass.

Matthew 26:37

And he took with him Peter and the two sons of Zebedee, and began to be sorrowful and very heavy.

Matthew 26:38

Then saith he unto them, My soul is exceeding sorrowful, even unto death: tarry ye here, and watch with me.

Praying for ourselves and keeping our lives prayerful means a world of difference in our prayers for others. When we, ourselves, are hooked up and have a vital prayer line to Christ, I believe, it helps so much with obtaining the answer to our prayer. Jesus prayed not only for himself but for others, for me and for you. (John 17) Jesus had mercy and compassion for all. He prayed for the needs of others as well as for those needs to be fulfilled. Prayer is a vital part of our everyday life; it is vitally important to be exercised daily. The troubling of one's heart, the stirring of one's spirit and the vision of the need motivates and brings one to one's knees in prayer. There are prayers of need, prayers of praise, prayers of thank you and prayers of just talking to God through Christ his son (fellowship and worship). I thank God for all of those who have prayed for me and all those who still pray, today, for I believe their prayers have had an impact on my life and, I believe, you may feel the same, too. The troubling of the heart can play a very important role concerning the answer to our prayers. It can move, shake, tremble and in time bring a swift answer or sometimes it takes God to answer in his own time. Regardless, when answers come, we have done our part and that was to pray, ask and believe.

Matthew 7:7

Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you:

Matthew 7:8

For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.

I believe, some way, somehow a troubled heart will be answered. It may not be as we expect sometimes but it will be God's best decision for us. I wonder, do we have the compassion and love for others to be the soul winner as we need to be for the Lord? Are we as prayerful as we should be by being earnest in prayer to pray for ourselves and others? Are our hearts troubled? Is our spirit stirred? Are we on our knees, in love, talking to God?

John 4:34

Jesus saith unto them, My meat is to do the will of him that sent me, and to finish his work.

John 4:35

Say not ye, There are yet four months, and then cometh harvest? behold, I say unto you, Lift up your eyes, and look on the fields; for they are white already to harvest.

John 4:36

And he that reapeth receiveth wages, and gathereth fruit unto life eternal: that both he that soweth and he that reapeth may rejoice together.

John 4:37

And herein is that saying true, One soweth, and another reapeth.

John 4:38

I sent you to reap that whereon ye bestowed no labour: other men laboured, and ye are entered into their labours.

Jesus said the fields were white and ready for picking. Is your heart troubled by the burden of lost souls needing to be saved? Is there a stirring of your spirit?

*****

The Wings of a Dove

Stealing Away Your Peace

Matthew 14:22

And straightway Jesus constrained his disciples to get into a ship, and to go before him unto the other side, while he sent the multitudes away.

Matthew 14:23

And when he had sent the multitudes away, he went up into a mountain apart to pray: and when the evening was come, he was there alone.

Matthew 14:24

But the ship was now in the midst of the sea, tossed with waves: for the wind was contrary.

Matthew 14:25

And in the fourth watch of the night Jesus went unto them, walking on the sea.

Matthew 14:26

And when the disciples saw him walking on the sea, they were troubled, saying, It is a spirit; and they cried out for fear.

Matthew 14:27

But straightway Jesus spake unto them, saying, Be of good cheer; it is I; be not afraid.

Matthew 14:28

And Peter answered him and said, Lord, if it be thou, bid me come unto thee on the water.

Matthew 14:29

And he said, Come. And when Peter was come down out of the ship, he walked on the water, to go to Jesus.

Matthew 14:30

But when he saw the wind boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink, he cried, saying, Lord, save me.

Matthew 14:31

And immediately Jesus stretched forth his hand, and caught him, and said unto him, O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt?

Matthew 14:32

And when they were come into the ship, the wind ceased.

Matthew 14:33

Then they that were in the ship came and worshipped him, saying, Of a truth thou art the Son of God.

We find here the event of Jesus walking on the water and the disciples were in the ship in the midst of the sea during in a storm. And, Peter told Jesus he wanted to walk on the water to him. Jesus told him to come. Peter stepped off the boat onto the water and walked to Jesus. But, the old devil stirred up the storm, the wind and the waves. Peter took his eyes off Jesus and began to sink. His faith was gone and fear had entered in. The devil's job is to steal our peace, faith and joy. He wants to make our life as unhappy and miserable as he can. I want to say, if we're not careful, he will. He'll take it away from us before we know it. Whenever we take our eyes off the Lord, we are opening the door for the devil to steal us blind, rob us of our joy and bind us down with doubt, worry, fear and unbelief; he shakes our faith. Sure, we all have to face life's storms. We all will be faced with trials, troubles and temptations. But, we don't have to give in and let the devil steal away our peace, joy and faith. The devil, at any given moment of time, can place a thought in our mind, draw our eyes from the Lord, and use his traps, snares and pits to bring us in to bondage, if we are not careful. He will hinder us, bind and chain us to steal our peace and joy, if we allow it. He will shatter our faith with doubt and unbelief. What do we do then? We should step out, walk on water in the midst of the storm with our eyes on Jesus and not look back nor left or right but unto Jesus where the victory is. Be ye found steadfast and unmovable. Too many times we follow in Peter's shoes by taking our eyes off Jesus and we begin to sink down to the place where the devil wants us so he can make us more miserable. We walk by faith, not sight.

I John 4:18

There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love.

I truly believe that when we walk in perfect love with Christ, in total complete faith, the devil cannot steal God's spiritual blessing away from us. But, if we, at any given moment of time, allow our thoughts to linger, our eyes to wander and we lean to our own understanding, I believe, we open the door for the thief to break in and steal.

John 10:10

The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.

Jesus said that he had come that we may have life and have it more abundantly.

John 14:27

Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.

I wonder, how's your peace of mind? How's your joy and where do you stand on your faith? Is it all that it should be or have you let the devil steal you blind, rob or cripple you? If so, it very well may be the reason you're unhappy and miserable, today. Why? Because instead of having your eyes on Jesus, you have them on the storm. You're fighting the wind and the waves on your own and you're sinking fast. It may be you have slipped a little and let the devil in the door and he's just about torn up everything and you're going under. I want to say, do as Peter did. Call upon the Lord and let him help you back upon the water and back in the boat so you can get it together and let Jesus work a work in your heart and life. Call upon the Lord, reach out your hands and give your heart unto him. Let him calm the storms, restore your peace of mind and joy; let him reestablish your faith. The devil will do any and everything in his power to kill, steal and destroy you. But, the key factor is, he can't do anything to you except what you allow him to do. Peter, at one time in his life, was a sea walker. He was a man who walked on top of the water unto Jesus. What about you? I am a firm believer that God wants his people to be happy. But, it is within you that a lot of the time you lose your peace of mind and joy. You fail to wear a happy face with a joyful heart. Sometimes, it's because of others who have let the devil use them to bring unhappiness to you. Too many times, you are the suffering victim of those who are miserable and unhappy themselves. They don't want you to be happy so they do their very best to bring you down. Regardless of it all, be careful, be on guard and don't let the devil steal away your peace of mind and joy. Keep your eyes on Jesus and keep looking up. Smile, Jesus loves you.

*****

The Wings of a Dove

Letting the Lord Take Over the Things in Our Lives

Exodus 4:1

And Moses answered and said, But, behold, they will not believe me, nor hearken unto my voice: for they will say, The Lord hath not appeared unto thee.

Exodus 4:2

And the Lord said unto him, What is that in thine hand? And he said, A rod.

Exodus 4:3

And he said, Cast it on the ground. And he cast it on the ground, and it became a serpent; and Moses fled from before it.

Exodus 4:4

And the Lord said unto Moses, Put forth thine hand, and take it by the tail. And he put forth his hand, and caught it, and it became a rod in his hand:

Exodus 4:5

That they may believe that the Lord God of their fathers, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob, hath appeared unto thee.

Moses answered the Lord and told him they would not believe him or hearken unto his voice for they would say, the Lord hath not appeared unto them. The Lord asked him, what is that in thine hand? And he told him a rod. The Lord told him to cast it on the ground. When he did, it became a serpent. I want to say, by letting the Lord take over things in our life it will make all the difference in the world. Before Moses laid that rod down before the Lord, it was just a stick. But, when he let go, let God and laid it down before the Lord, the Lord's touch made all the difference. Too many times, we try to hold on to the crutches of life. Many times, we carry them with us and we get little use from them. But, when we lay it down before the Lord and let go, the Lord touches it. Our crutch then becomes a wonder to us. We can study on about how Moses used the rod for the glory of God and read of all the wonderful things that happened. Before, it was only a rod, a stick but it became a helping device through the Lord and a device Moses could use to its fullness. How is it with you on letting the Lord take over the things in your life? Let the Lord take those un-useful things in your life and turn them in to something that will benefit you and the Lord. You may ask, what do I do? I say, lay it down.

Hebrews 12:1

Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us,

Hebrews 12:2

Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.

Many times in life, we struggle and struggle to get through. Many times, we rob ourselves of the blessings from the Lord because we tend to hold on to the things in our lives that we need to lay down and let the Lord move and put his touch on. We all would probably be surprised about the things in our lives if we would just lay them down before the Lord and let go. If we let go, so much of it could be made better and help us in our Christian walk of life. Before Moses laid the rod down, it was but a stick. But, before the Pharaoh of Egypt, Moses cast it down and it became a serpent and ate the Pharaoh magician's serpent (Exodus 7:8-12). Moses raised his hands and the river turned to blood (Exodus 7:19-25). And, Moses stood on the banks of the Red Sea with the same rod and he lifted it in his hand unto God in the heaven above. God parted the waters of the Red Sea and the children of Israel crossed upon dry ground (Exodus 14:15-31). Before, to Moses, it was only a stick he used to help him walk. But, when he laid it down before the Lord, it was able to do wonders. I just wonder, today, is there a rod in your life that you might need to lay down before the Lord and let him touch your life so that he can make it better and make the things in your life better? All you must do is lay it down, let go and believe. There is no telling how long Moses had carried the rod before he stood before the Lord that day. There is no telling where, along his journey, he found it or stopped to pick it up. But, do you know what is so important? It's not where or when but that the Lord took it, touched it and turned it in to something useful and beneficial unto Moses and his life. Do you know what's even greater than that? The Lord can do the same for you. Why don't you lay it down, let go and believe. I want to leave this verse of scripture with you (Numbers 20:1-12). Read it!

Numbers 20:7

And the Lord spake unto Moses, saying,

Number 20:8

Take the rod, and gather thou the assembly together, thou, and Aaron thy brother, and speak ye unto the rock before their eyes; and it shall give forth his water, and thou shalt bring forth to them water out of the rock: so thou shalt give the congregation and their beasts drink.

Numbers 20:9

And Moses took the rod from before the Lord, as he commanded him.

Numbers 20:10

And Moses and Aaron gathered the congregation together before the rock, and he said unto them, Hear now, ye rebels; must we fetch you water out of this rock?

Numbers 20:11

And Moses lifted up his hand, and with his rod he smote the rock twice: and the water came out abundantly, and the congregation drank, and their beasts also.

Moses lifted up his hand and with his rod he smote (struck) the rock twice.

Numbers 20:12

And the Lord spake unto Moses and Aaron, Because ye believed me not, to sanctify me in the eyes of the children of Israel, therefore ye shall not bring this congregation into the land which I have given them.

Moses' rod was used for good and for bad. It wasn't the rod but the man who used it that determined its outcome. We all could probably lay something down. But, it's going to take fully obeying the Lord with all our heart, mind, soul and strength before the real difference will be made.

Deuteronomy 34:4

And the Lord said unto him, This is the land which I sware unto Abraham, unto Isaac, and unto Jacob, saying, I will give it unto thy seed: I have caused thee to see it with thine eyes, but thou shalt not go over thither.

Deuteronomy 34:5

So Moses the servant of the Lord died there in the land of Moab, according to the word of the Lord.

Deuteronomy 34:6

And he buried him in a valley in the land of Moab, over against Bethpeor: but no man knoweth of his sepulchre unto this day.

Before, when Moses picked it up, it was but a stick. How is it with the rods of your life?

*****

The Wings of a Dove

You Can Run but You Can't Hide

Jonah 1:17

Now the Lord had prepared a great fish to swallow up Jonah. And Jonah was in the belly of the fish three days and three nights.

Now the word of the Lord came to Jonah saying, arise and go to Nineveh. But Jonah rose up and fled to Tarshish from the presence of the Lord. I want to say, we can run but we can't hide. Too many times, the Lord speaks to our hearts and lives which leads us to step out to do a job and serve him. There are some who accept his calling but there are others who run the other way. Not only does the Lord deal with us about the work of the kingdom but, a lot of the time, the Lord speaks to us about things in our lives that we run from. There are the things the Lord says let go, things we need to change, things we need to stop and things we need to overcome. Too many times, instead of facing this problem, people deny it, put it off and run the other way to escape the problem. I want to say, we might run but we can't hide. There are those who struggle and battle with the same old problems in their life daily. Instead of facing it with the Lord, they put it off, put it on the back shelf and try to forget about it until they are confronted with it again. We can run all we want and we can try to hide it but in the end, if we haven't taken care of it with the Lord, it very well may find us out.

Jonah 1:3

But Jonah rose up to flee unto Tarshish from the presence of the Lord, and went down to Joppa; and he found a ship going to Tarshish: so he paid the fare thereof, and went down into it, to go with them unto Tarshish from the presence of the Lord.

Jonah 1:4

But the Lord sent out a great wind into the sea, and there was a mighty tempest in the sea, so that the ship was like to be broken.

Jonah 1:5

Then the mariners were afraid, and cried every man unto his god, and cast forth the wares that were in the ship into the sea, to lighten it of them. But Jonah was gone down into the sides of the ship; and he lay, and was fast asleep.

Jonah 1:6

So the shipmaster came to him, and said unto him, What meanest thou, O sleeper? arise, call upon thy God, if so be that God will think upon us, that we perish not.

Jonah 1:7

And they said every one to his fellow, Come, and let us cast lots, that we may know for whose cause this evil is upon us. So they cast lots, and the lot fell upon Jonah.

Jonah 1:8

Then said they unto him, Tell us, we pray thee, for whose cause this evil is upon us; What is thine occupation? and whence comest thou? what is thy country? and of what people art thou?

Jonah 1:9

And he said unto them, I am an Hebrew; and I fear the Lord, the God of heaven, which hath made the sea and the dry land.

Jonah 1:10

Then were the men exceedingly afraid, and said unto him, Why hast thou done this? For the men knew that he fled from the presence of the Lord, because he had told them.

Jonah 1:11

Then said they unto him, What shall we do unto thee, that the sea may be calm unto us? for the sea wrought, and was tempestuous.

Jonah 1:12

And he said unto them, Take me up, and cast me forth into the sea; so shall the sea be calm unto you: for I know that for my sake this great tempest is upon you.

Jonah 1:13

Nevertheless the men rowed hard to bring it to the land; but they could not: for the sea wrought, and was tempestuous against them.

Jonah 1:14

Wherefore they cried unto the Lord, and said, We beseech thee, O Lord, we beseech thee, let us not perish for this man's life, and lay not upon us innocent blood: for thou, O Lord, hast done as it pleased thee.

Jonah 1:15

So they took up Jonah, and cast him forth into the sea: and the sea ceased from her raging.

You can run all you want but you can't hide from God. Jonah was a man the Lord was dealing with to go to Nineveh. It may be, today, the Lord has been dealing with you about some things you have been running from. Regardless of what it may be, I just wonder, are you going to be like Jonah and be thrown overboard into the raging seas before you'll wake up and do as the Lord would have you to do or will you still fight it? A lot of the times, the Lord confronts you such as Jonah faced these men and the raging sea; that's about the only way you will wake up, realize the truth and just where you stand. I truly believe, the Lord means business. But, I do think what he does is for your best interest whether you want to see it or not. When they threw Jonah off that ship into the raging sea, I believe, Jonah probably thought it was all over. Maybe the Lord has been dealing with you to be saved and to give your heart and life to him but you keep running from him because you don't want to give up the things of the world. It may be you have an addiction or habit the Lord has been telling you to get rid of and you are running from it because you just can't let go. I want to say, regardless, the Lord wants you to preach, be saved and rededicate your heart and life. You can run but you can't hide. Will you give the Lord his will and way or will you put it off and run from him until you're cast off the side and into troubled waters?

Jonah 1:17

Now the Lord had prepared a great fish to swallow up Jonah. And Jonah was in the belly of the fish three days and three nights.

Most of the time we are our own worst enemy. How far will we go? When will the running end? When shall the victory be?

Jonah 2:1

Then Jonah prayed unto the Lord his God out of the fish's belly,

Jonah 2:2

And said, I cried by reason of mine affliction unto the Lord, and he heard me; out of the belly of hell cried I, and thou heardest my voice.

Jonah 2:3

For thou hadst cast me into the deep, in the midst of the seas; and the floods compassed me about: all thy billows and thy waves passed over me.

Jonah 2:4

Then I said, I am cast out of thy sight; yet I will look again toward thy holy temple.

Jonah 2:5

The waters compassed me about, even to the soul: the depth closed me round about, the weeds were wrapped about my head.

Jonah 2:6

I went down to the bottoms of the mountains; the earth with her bars was about me for ever: yet has thou brought up my life from corruption, O Lord my God.

Jonah 2:7

When my soul fainted within me I remembered the Lord: and my prayer came in unto thee, into thine holy temple.

Jonah 2:8

They that observe lying vanities forsake their own mercy.

Jonah 2:9

But I will sacrifice unto thee with the voice of thanksgiving; I will pay that that I have vowed. Salvation is of the Lord.

Jonah 2:10

And the Lord spake unto the fish, and it vomited out Jonah upon the dry land.

I truly believe, when we reach rock bottom and there is nowhere else to turn will be the time when we'll look up and obey the word of the Lord. But, my question is. Why must we go so far? Jonah cried out from inside the whale's belly and the Lord heard his cry; the fish vomited out Jonah upon dry ground. What about you, today? Has the Lord called on you for something? I just wonder, how far will you go? You can run but you can't hide. Why don't you just go on and obey the Lord by serving him and letting him lead you so you will be happy.

Jonah 3:1

And the word of the Lord came unto Jonah the second time, saying,

Jonah 3:2

Arise, go unto Nineveh, that great city, and preach unto it the preaching that I bid thee.

Jonah 3:3

So Jonah arose, and went unto Nineveh, according to the word of the Lord. Now Nineveh was an exceeding great city of three days' journey.

Jonah 3:4

And Jonah began to enter into the city a day's journey, and he cried, and said, Yet forty days, and Nineveh shall be overthrown.

You can run but you can't hide.

~~~~~

At the breaking light of dawn, I awoke from my sleep. As the light of morning broke, I arose and looked out as the morning begin to brighten the blue sky above. Peace and joy filled my spirit. As I looked at a new day and a fresh new beginning, those things that so easily beset me were now gone; they had moved on with the storm clouds. And, the Lord had once more blessed me and put me back on my right path. Tears of joy filled my eyes and peace laid heavy on my heart and mind. For my awesome God, my Jesus, my Lord, has once more brought me through some troubled times. As I look out, I praise him with all my heart. He has placed a new song in my heart and soul. Although I was beaten and banged around by the enemy for a short while, it was worth it all because of what the Lord did for me. My faith stands bold and I cannot describe my love for the Lord; my words cannot begin to say. Today is a new day for the troubled days of yesterday are behind me once more. Thank you, Lord. I love you so.

*****

The Wings of a Dove

Looking For a Blessing

Matthew 2:1-23, Luke Chapter 1 and 2:1-20

Luke 2:11

For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.

Luke 2:12

And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.

From generation to generation, the Jews looked for the coming of the Messiah, the one that was prophecy for years and years; the one that would come and set them free. Yet, though Christ came, they did not accept him. They rejected him and nailed him to a cross. The Jews are still looking, this day, for the first coming of Jesus Christ our Lord. We are, in so many ways, liken unto the Jews. We are looking for a blessing, expecting something big and exciting and maybe even breathtaking. But, we, so many times, miss the best of the blessing in the little things that God does for us. We are too busy looking for the big blessings that when God rains down little ones, a coming and a going, we fail to see them. We are just like the Jews. They looked for a great king or ruler to set up his throne but they missed that little babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. I believe, today, that we should take heed and count our blessings, regardless if they are big or small. We should be thankful and praise God that he has blessed us so. We, I am afraid, take too much for granted and abuse our blessings by being so ungrateful. The greatest of all gifts and blessings God has given to us in this world was his son, his love, Jesus Christ.

John 3:16

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

John 3:17

For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.

We are so spoiled and so selfish, at times, we only see what we want to see and shun away from the truth of a blessing right in front of us because if we don't get our way, it's not what we want and how we want it or the way we think it should be. We'll walk away mad and refuse the blessing because it's not exactly what we ask for. We have to realize God sent our blessing in a different way which in the long run is better for us. I believe, we need to be more thankful and praise God more in our daily lives than we do. I know I fall short of this and I'm sure you do, too. We all could be more grateful than we are. If we have food to eat, clothes on our back, a place to rest and get in out of the weather that is something to shout about. Some of us are not satisfied. If we don't have hundreds of dollars' worth of clothes in the closet to choose from, we are not satisfied; we want more and more. The Christ child was lying in a manger wrapped in rags, in swaddling clothes. Some of us are not satisfied when we live in a mansion overlooking beautiful scenery and here was the Christ child born in a stable, lying in a feeding trough. Sure, God doesn't care if we have these things. But he doesn't want us to forget him and where they came from. If we have the bare necessities of everyday life, regardless how grand and fine they are, we should count our blessings and thank God above for being there with us. We truly have a lot to be thankful for if we would just sit down and count our blessings. I believe, our little blessings will outnumber our big ones and will mean a lot more to us than we will ever realize.

Psalm 100:1

Make a joyful noise unto the Lord, all ye lands.

Psalm 100:2

Serve the Lord with gladness: come before his presence with singing.

Psalm 100:3

Know ye that the Lord he is God: it is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture.

Psalm 100:4

Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name.

Psalm 100:5

For the Lord is good; his mercy is everlasting; and his truth endureth to all generations.

True happiness is not determined by how much we possess or how little we have. True happiness, I have found, is having Jesus Christ in our heart and life; all else isn't as important. When we have Christ in our heart and life, we have it all. We need to count our blessings, be thankful and praise God.

Psalm 23:1

The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.

Psalm 23:2

He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.

Psalm 23:3

He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake.

Psalm 23:4

Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou are with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.

Psalm 23:5

Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.

Psalm 23:6

Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever.

If you're looking for a blessing, look up unto God. If you're looking for true happiness and peace of mind, open up your heart and life unto Christ our Lord. The Jews looked for the Messiah, a king or ruler to be over them, but they overlooked the Christ child lying in a manger wrapped in swaddling clothes, the King of Kings and the Lord of Lords. The Jews are still looking, today. It just may be you're overlooking some of your biggest blessings because you're looking, for something else – Matthew 6:25-34.

*****

The Wings of a Dove

I Had No Where to Look But Up

Luke 15:11-24

Let me ask you a question. Have you ever been there? I'm talking about being in a situation of having nowhere to look but up. I believe, we all have had our moments of not knowing which way to go nor where to turn. We had no choice but to look up. There have been those moments in my life when I thought I had it all together. I thought I had all the right answers but when my world began to crumble around me, I found no place to look but up. I want to say, I thank God the Father and Christ, his son, for being there for me. For, without them I am nothing and was found in want. It took me a long time to get to the place I needed to be. But, thank God, he got me there. It wasn't anything that I did; it was the Lord. The only thing I did was listen and follow him. When I gave my heart and life unto the Lord, I did not have to look anymore because I found what I had been searching for so I've been trying to look up ever since. Sure, there are the times of not knowing where to look or turn especially when my eyes are not on Christ like they should be. That's when the sweet, still voice of the Holy Spirit lets me know to look up. In the world, as a sinner, I looked at everything I could as I searched for answers. I would try this and I would try that but each time I would sink deeper and deeper in sin and this sinful world. The only place to find my answer and my only hope was to look up. Sure, there have been those lone, dark moments when I felt like all was lost, all hope was gone, there was nowhere to turn and I couldn't go any further. Those moments of time are the times to look up. Sure, there are the moments when it seems like the whole world has turned against me and I have just about lost it all with no one to turn to, not even a friend or a stranger. There were those moments during the silence, in the darkness of it all, when I cried and cried until I couldn't cry anymore. Those were the times when I had nowhere to turn. All I could do was look up. Read the story of the prodigal son.

Luke 15:11

And he said, A certain man had two sons:

Luke 15:12

And the younger of them said to his father, Father, give me the portion of goods that falleth to me. And he divided unto them his living.

Luke 15:13

And not many days after the younger son gathered all together, and took his journey into a far country, and there wasted his substance with riotous living.

Luke 15:14

And when he had spent all, there arose a mighty famine in that land; and he began to be in want.

Luke 15:15

And he went and joined himself to a citizen of that country; and he sent him into the fields to feed swine.

Luke 15:16

And he would fain have filled his belly with the husks that the swine did eat: and no man gave unto him.

I wonder, have you ever been there; nowhere to look but up?

Luke 15:17

And when he came to himself, he said, How many hired servants of my father's have bread enough and to spare, and I perish with hunger!

Luke 15:18

I will arise and go to my father, and will say unto him, Father, I have sinned against heaven, and before thee,

Luke 15:19

And am no more worthy to be called thy son: make me as one of thy hired servants.

Luke 15:20

And he arose, and came to his father. But when he was yet a great way off, his father saw him, and had compassion, and ran, and fell on his neck, and kissed him.

Luke 15:21

And the son said unto him, Father, I have sinned against heaven, and in thy sight, and am no more worthy to be called thy son.

Luke 15:22

But the father said to his servants, Bring forth the best robe, and put it on him; and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet:

Luke 15:23

And bring hither the fatted calf, and kill it; and let us eat, and be merry:

Luke 15:24

For this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found. And thy began to be merry.

It may be, today, you are waddling in the hog pen of sin, eating the husks of the swine like the prodigal son. And, you may be looking around wondering about yourself and your life. I want to say, look no more. Look up unto the Lord. I just wonder, how long will it take before you wake up to the truth, look up unto the Heavenly Father and come home unto him? How long will you live your life looking everywhere under the sun, searching for your answer and the truth? Look no more. Look up; God loves you and Christ loves you.

John 3:16

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

John 3:17

For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.

I just wonder, will you, today, just look up unto Jesus, open up your heart unto him and let him help you? Let go and let God.

Psalm 50:15

And call upon me in the day of trouble: I will deliver thee, and thou shalt glorify me.

Genesis 8:6

And it came to pass at the end of forty days, that Noah opened the window of the ark which he had made:

Genesis 8:7

And he sent forth a raven, which went forth to and fro, until the waters were dried up from off the earth.

Genesis 8:8

Also he sent forth a dove from him, to see if the waters were abated from off the face of the ground;

Genesis 8:9

But the dove found no rest for the sole of her foot, and she returned unto him into the ark, for the waters were on the face of the whole earth: then he put forth his hand, and took her, and pulled her in unto him into the ark.

Genesis 8:10

And he stayed yet other seven days; and again he sent forth the dove out of the ark;

Genesis 8:11

And the dove came in to him in the evening; and, lo, in her mouth was an olive leaf pluckt off: so Noah knew that the waters were abated from off the earth.

Genesis 8:12

And he stayed yet other seven days; and sent forth the dove; which returned not again unto him any more.

~~~~~

As the light of day rose across the way, it lit up the blue morning sky. As a few clouds set off in the distance, a warm gentle breeze blew by me and the breeze softly kissed my face. It was the morning of a new day. I watched the birds as they flew about in the sky and the air was so sweet. As I looked up into the heavens, I praised the Lord for the storms of yesterday had passed. As I looked up toward the sky, I thanked the Lord for what was in my heart and for being with me. I told him that I loved him and thanked him for all he has done for me. I knew in my heart I could never get through the days without him because his love and peace means so much to me. Tomorrow may bring another storm my way but I know in my heart the Lord will bring me through. I worry not about tomorrow. I just want to spend today with him.

*****

The Wings of a Dove

Loving the Lord

Mark 12:28

And one of the scribes came, and having heard them reasoning together, and perceiving that he had answered them well, asked him, Which is the first commandment of all?

Mark 12:29

And Jesus answered him, The first of all the commandments is, Hear, O Israel; The Lord our God is one Lord:

Mark 12:30

And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength: this is the first commandment.

Mark 12:31

And the second is like, namely this, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. There is none other commandment greater than these.

One of the scribes came and having heard them reasoning together he asked him what was the first commandment of all.

Mark 12:29

And Jesus answered him, the first of all the commandments is, Hear, O Israel; The Lord our God is one Lord:

Mark 12:30

And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength: this is the first commandment.

Mark 12:31

And the second is like, namely this, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. There is none other commandment greater than these.

Jesus says we must love the Lord God with all our hearts, mind, soul and strength. I believe, by serving the Lord in fellowship, in worship and in every aspect of him, we must completely and totally sell out of the world and the things of the world in loving him. I do not believe our walk with the Lord will be as effective if our love for him is half-way and we're straddling the fence. I don't believe half-hearted love and half-minded fellowship will accomplish very much at all. I believe, it's going to take us to totally sell out of the world and completely let Christ be our all. It's going to take some sacrifices and changes. We need to have better attitudes. We will also have to deny self and get self out of the way by putting God first in our hearts and lives, before we will achieve the fullness of the Lord in our lives. No, I don't believe the complete commitment comes overnight. I believe, when we get saved and God forgives us of our sins, he sets us free. When he set us free, we need to start building our total, complete love for him. I believe, as time goes on in one's Christian walk of life, we slowly let go and build, more and more, in our relationship through fellowship and our love for him. I want to say, it is a love of give and take. We have to let God work with us and we work with him through his son Jesus, his Holy Spirit and his Holy word. The more our obedience is in him and in our lives daily, the more we will allow our love to grow in him. The more we give ourselves to the Lord, in every aspect of our life, the more God will be able to work, help us and show his love for us. Let me ask you. Are you loving him with all your heart or do you still have some of the love of the world and the things of the world you're holding on to?

John 3:16

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

John 3:17

For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.

Do you love him with all your mind? Are you meditating on him and his word daily? Are you applying the word in your heart and are you living out his word?

Philippians 4:6

Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.

Philippians 4:7

And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

Philippians 4:8

Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.

Are you loving him with all your soul (life)? Are you dedicated to him and living the standard of Christ's teaching? Or, do you have one foot in the world and the other in the church?

Matthew 16:24

Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.

Matthew 16:25

For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it.

Matthew 16:26

For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?

Would you be loving him with all your strength? Are you giving your all?

Romans 8:35

Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword?

Romans 8:36

As it is written, For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter.

Romans 8:37

Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us.

Romans 8:38

For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come.

Romans 8:39

Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

I want to say, growing in the Lord is not only growing in love but faith, patience, trust, longsuffering, meekness, obedience and so many other things. Walking with the Lord, daily, is an adventure of growing and learning to strive more unto the perfection of God's image. We can be molded and shaped if we allow the Lord to work with us and transform us in to what he wants us to be, not what we want to be. It is a complete self-denial if we don't.

Jeremiah 18:1

The word which came to Jeremiah from the Lord, saying,

Jeremiah 18:2

Arise, and go down to the potter's house, and there I will cause thee to hear my words.

Jeremiah 18:3

Then I went down to the potter's house, and, behold, he wrought a work on the wheels.

Jeremiah 18:4

And the vessel that he made of clay was marred in the hand of the potter: so he made it again another vessel, as seemed good to the potter to make it.

Jeremiah 18:5

Then the word of the Lord came to me, saying,

Jeremiah 18:6

O house of Israel, cannot I do with you as this potter? saith the Lord. Behold, as the clay is in the potter's hand, so are ye in mine hand, O house of Israel.

Christianity is a way of life, an everyday way of life. But, it is a way that we are totally and completely in the Lord. Our total loves and desires should be that of the Lord.

Matthew 6:33

But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.

Jesus says we are to love the Lord with all our heart, mind, soul, strength and our neighbors as ourself. If our love of God is not where it should be then how can our love for others be what it should be?

I John 4:19

We love him, because he first loved us.

I John 4:20

If a man say, I love God, and hateth his brother, he is a liar: for he that loveth not his brother whom he hath seen, how can he love God whom he hath not seen?

I John 4:21

And this commandment have we from him, That he who loveth God love his brother also.

God is love and all that he asks is that you love him and serve him. Is your love for the Lord all that it should be? Could it be better? Is your love for your neighbor, your enemy and others what it should be? Could it be better? I don't think you could ever begin to out love God. Do you! God's ultimate love for you is that he gave his only begotten son, Jesus Christ, to come and die for you and me. How could God show his love any better or any more? How much more can you show your love to him except by giving him your heart and life totally and completely?

Isaiah 55:8

For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are you ways my ways, saith the Lord.

Isaiah 55:9

For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts.

*****

The Wings of a Dove

None of Us Was Put Here to Stay

Hebrews 9:27

And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment:

Hebrews 9:28

So Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many; and unto them that look for him shall he appear the second time without sin unto salvation.

It is appointed unto man once to die and then after that the judgment. I truly believe that we live in a society, today, where people act like and about half-way believe they aren't ever going to die; they think they'll live on just as they are. I am afraid, too many times, we get caught up in these kind of thoughts. People, today, seem like they could care less about being ready and prepared for the second coming of Christ. They are so wrapped up by the things in their lives and what is around them that they fail to see the reality of death lurking at every door. I am afraid when the time of death comes for some, they may be found unconcerned and unprepared. It will be too late, after death, to do anything about it. I want to say, none of us was put here to stay. Life here is a time of preparation and a time of getting ready for eternity; the place called Heaven or the place called Hell and the Lake of Fire.

James 4:14

Whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away.

Life here on earth is no more than a vapor, here today and gone tomorrow. But, with eternity there is no beginning or end. It is what we want to be caught up in so you'll live forever and forever after spending a short time here on earth. None of us was put here to stay. We were put here to find the way of eternal peace and happiness which is in fellowship with God through his Son Jesus Christ. Life here on earth is only a layover, a door mat to the enriched blessings of joy, peace and love that God has for those who will find the way. Life here on earth is a time of finding our way, a time of preparation, a time of season for one to be molded and shaped by the hands of the Lord for the second coming of Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior.

Matthew 22:14

For many are called, but few are chosen.

Many are called but few are chosen. However, none of us are put here to stay but to find the way of eternal peace with God. Too many people, today, live like there's no tomorrow and they are not prepared to face death's door. Too many people, today, do not take it serious enough; they laugh, mock and scorn the end of time. People, today, seem to think a person has to be old to die and they have their whole life ahead of them. It's all lies; all are lies from the devil. First of all, young people and kids are dying, today, coming and going. A lot of them are taken out by their very own, another kid. Secondly, God has never promised us a tomorrow for I believe the Bible teaches us to live one day at a time for tomorrow may be the judgment. The devil will tell people any and everything he can to get them in the position that when death comes they will not be prepared. People, today, live like they will not have to stand at the judgment to give an account of their life.

Ecclesiastes 12:13

Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man.

Ecclesiastes 12:14

For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil.

Matthew 12:36

But I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment.

The lack of the fear of God has just about destroyed mankind. The lack of the fear of God will probably send more people to hell than anything else. I want to say this, they may not show much fear here on earth but when death comes and they stand before the judgment unprepared, it will be a different story for them.

Philippians 2:10

That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth;

Philippians 2:11

And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

None of us was put here to stay. But, so many people live their life like they are never going to die. They live like life is nothing but a big party by doing their own thing. I want to say, just sit back, think about yourself and your life. Look back and see everything that has been taken for granted in this life. When you are finished with that, look what all you are taking for granted about death and eternity. Now, just be honest about it and be honest with yourself. What do you see? Are you prepared? Today is the day of salvation for tomorrow may be the judgment. Make things right while you can for after death it will be too late. None of us are put here to stay. But, it is a place where we are to prepare for God's blessed promise, through his word and his son, Jesus Christ.

John 14:1

Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me.

John 14:2

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.

John 14:3

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 14:4

And whither I go ye know, and the way ye know.

John 14:5

Thomas saith unto him, Lord, we know not whither thou goest; and how can we know the way?

John 14:6

Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.

I wonder, when your appointed time comes, how will you be found? Will you be ready or will you be found unprepared? We spend a whole lifetime making plans for this and that. We work hard to achieve all that life has to behold and accomplish all life's dreams. A lot of the time, in the end, we are found unprepared for this thing called death and eternity. And, there are probably many who will leave this old world behind with this last thought on their mind; well, I never really thought about it. Jesus said –

Matthew 24:36

But of that day and hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels of heaven, but my Father only.

I Thessalonians 4:16

For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first.

I Thessalonians 4:17

Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord.

I Thessalonians 4:18

Wherefore comfort one another with these words.

None of us are here to stay. I wonder, will you be ready to go?

*****

The Wings of a Dove

They Hated Me Without a Cause

John 15:25

But this cometh to pass, that the word might be fulfilled that is written in their law, They hated me without a cause.

Of all the aspects of being a Christian and trying to live a Christian life, there is, to me, one aspect that seems harder to deal with, harder to overcome and probably the most damaging of all. I believe rejection and hurt by others, your very own, plays a great impact in one's Christian walk of faith. I believe that rejection and hurt has probably destroyed more people, drove more people away and is more paralyzing and crippling to others than any other aspect of Christian life. It is sometimes the hardest to overcome and will bind the hearts of a believer; it binds, chains and hinders their Christian walk of faith. I believe the hardest of all the things Jesus faced while here upon this earth was the hurt and rejection. His very own people were his worst enemy. They slapped him, spit on him, beat him and whipped him beyond human imagination. They stripped him and nailed him to an old rugged cross. But, through it all, I believe, the hurt and rejection from his very own was the worst of his battles. He is the true son of the living God who came to his very own to bring peace, love and hope to them. He was mankind's only hope and way to eternal life. What did they do? They yelled for him to be crucified. He was betrayed by one and denied by another but, yet, he went on. They tried to kill him when he was born and other times throughout his ministry. His life was full of rejection and hurt but, yet, Jesus was able to look beyond it all unto the blessed hope. He prayed, "Father forgive them for they know not what they do." I am a firm believer that hurt and rejection does and will play a part in people's lives. It will rule over them and lead them. It will cause them to do things they probably would never do. I want to say, if a person looks back and takes an honest look at their life as a child growing up, I believe, they will find where hurt and rejection played a vital part in their life, its outcome and what they are facing. Can they look beyond it all unto the blessed hope in Christ our Lord and press onward? No, they cannot go back or change the hurt or rejection they are dealing with. But, there is one thing they can do by and through Christ Jesus the son of God. They can cope and learn to deal with it daily through him. And, as times goes by, the healing hand of God can and will heal the wounds. Jesus said they hated him without a cause; they hated him for no reason. Have you ever been there? Christ didn't fit in and he didn't go along with things that were not right. He stood against sin and all that was wrong before the eyes of God; he stood up for what was right. There were many against him and many who turned him away. I wonder, have you ever been there? Learning to deal with and to accept rejection and hurt will take God the Father and his son, Christ, time along with totally surrendering it in his hands. Sometimes, it's not so easy to overcome. There are many good people, today, who no longer attend church. It's not because they don't love God it's because of this very thing I'm speaking about. It is so easy to give in to the hurt and drop out. Some need the help of others to bring them through with Christ's help. However, some people are stronger than others. We as the body of Christ, a body of believing in Christ, need each other to survive this world. But, the bottom line is self. Don't give up! Keep trying and pressing onward regardless of the pain. Jesus made it and so can you. Remember, he was bearing a cross! Through Christ, you can overcome and endure whatever the devil brings against you. But, it is only by and through Jesus that you'll be able to achieve it and be victorious. The more hurt and rejection you give to Christ, the more healing will take place. Sure, you may have the times when the wounds will try to open up again before they are completely healed and they will try to fester and swell. Remember, don't give in. Be strong in the Lord and in the power of his might for greater is he that's in you than he that's in the world. The sooner you let the wound close, the better off you'll be. I wonder, today, can you look beyond unto the blessed hope of all that lies ahead? Can you see what God has in store for you? Can you overlook the hurt and rejection through Christ our Lord and know in your heart that Jesus loves you and is coming back for you? All you have to do is be ready.

John 14:1

Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me.

John 14:2

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.

John 14:3

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 14:4

And whither I go ye know, and the way ye know.

John 14:5

Thomas saith unto him, Lord, we know not whither thou goest; and how can we know the way?

John 14:6

Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.

Matthew 3:13

Then cometh Jesus from Galilee to Jordan unto John, to be baptized of him.

Matthew 3:14

But John forbad him, saying, I have need to be baptized of thee, and comest thou to me?

Matthew 3:15

And Jesus answering said unto him, Suffer it to be so now: for thus it becometh us to fulfil all righteousness. Then he suffered him.

Matthew 3:16

And Jesus, when he was baptized, went up straightway out of the water: and, lo, the heavens were opened unto him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and lighting upon him:

Matthew 3:17

And lo a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.

~~~~~

In the still of the silence, I stood in the valley and looked up toward the heavens above. The creek that once flowed through the valley had dried up and along the banks of the creek was a thicket of hedges with thorns, dried up weeds and thistles. It had not rained in the valley for a long time. As I walked about, the dust from the ground stirred at my feet. There was no wind and the air was dry. There were no birds in the sky. The only thing I could see was a few lingering rainless clouds. Loneliness hung heavy throughout the valley as I walked about. I had not heard from the Lord in a while and my heart so longed for him. From the valley, in the distance, I could see the mountain tops that reached to the heavens above. There was little to no light from the sun in the valley. As the dry winds started to stir throughout the valley below, I cried out unto the Lord. "Oh, my Lord, my God, how long will you wait to bring back life to the valley that the winter season has taken away? How long will it be, my Lord, before life shall reign again in the valley?" Then, I heard something about me. As I turned, I saw a butterfly flapping its wings and flying about. A warm gentle breeze began to stir right before I felt a drop of rain. From behind the mountains that stood before me, the sun rose high in the sky and shined light down through the valley. The rain fell steadily and filled the creek. When I looked again, the valley was filled with all kinds of flowers, green bushes and trees green with life. My heart was stirred by the tears from my eyes and the loneliness was gone for my heart had heard from the Lord. I immediately praised him, and cried out, "I love you, my Lord." As I looked about, spring had come once again and awakened the valley from its long winter sleep. As I stood there that day in the beautiful valley adorned with all of God's beauty, I heard him speak to my heart and spirit. "Be patient, my child, have faith and believe not in your time but in mine. Be patient, my child, hope, pray and trust me. I will bring it to pass in my time."

~~~~~

Genesis 8:6

And it came to pass at the end of forty days, that Noah opened the window of the ark which he had made:

Genesis 8:7

And he sent forth a raven, which went forth to and fro, until the waters were dried up from off the earth.

Genesis 8:8

Also he sent forth a dove from him, to see if the waters were abated from off the face of the ground;

Genesis 8:9

But the dove found no rest for the sole of her foot, and she returned unto him into the ark, for the waters were on the face of the whole earth: then he put forth his hand, and took her, and pulled her in unto him into the ark.

Genesis 8:10

And he stayed yet other seven days; and again he sent forth the dove out of the ark;

Genesis 8:11

And the dove came in to him in the evening; and, lo, in her mouth was an olive leaf pluckt off: so Noah knew that the waters were abated from off the earth.

Genesis 8:12

And he stayed yet other seven days; and sent forth the dove; which returned not again unto him any more.

~~~~~

Matthew 3:13

Then cometh Jesus from Galilee to Jordan unto John, to be baptized of him.

Matthew 3:14

But John forbad him, saying, I have need to be baptized of thee, and comest thou to me?

Matthew 3:15

And Jesus answering said unto him, Suffer it to be so now: for thus it becometh us to fulfil all righteousness. Then he suffered him.

Matthew 3:16

And Jesus, when he was baptized, went up straightway out of the water: and, lo, the heavens were opened unto him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and lighting upon him:

Matthew 3:17

And lo a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.

~~~~~

The warm, golden light of day peeped through the darkness of night unto a new day as if the Lord blew a kiss from heaven to awaken the dawn. As the Lord whispered with a gentle breath, the sun slowly rose and drove away the darkness of the night before. Gracefully, the light appeared unto a blue sky and the Lord looked upon it and said it was good. The morning of the new day was brisk but gentle and warm. As the birds took flight in the open heavens above, the sweet smell of the spring flowers enhanced everything with an abundance of fragrance and their colors created a beauty for all to behold. The Lord said it was good. The day was full of life for all to enjoy. It was a new day and a fresh new beginning. And, the Lord said it was good.

*****

Discover other titles by Bobby A. Troutt at Smashwords.com

Beyond the Truth

A Cry in the Wind

Thistles and Thorns

Dead Limbs and Leaves

Troubled Waters

When Autumn Falls

When Time Was

Bittersweet

Sycamore Tales

Stepping Out on a Limb

Odds n Ends

Turning Point

The Fall of Night

In Times of Quitting

Still Wind, Forgotten Days

In Times of Trouble

Special Moments

The Fall of Autumn

Reaching Forward

Still Voice

Sounds of Many Waters

Bobby A. Troutt is a southern writer who writes a variety of short stories, spiritual books and children's books.
