Baptism
The subject of baptism is extremely important. It is one of the basic ordinances the Lord Jesus Christ gave His followers. As we turn to the Scripture, we will seek to answer several questions: What is Baptism? What does it mean to be baptized? What does it do for the follower of Christ?
The Joy of Your Salvation
Believers experience spiritual joy through walking in harmony with the Lord, producing fruits of the Spirit. However, sin can grieve the Holy Spirit, diminishing joy but not affecting salvation, which is secure through Christ’s work. Restoring joy requires self-judgment and confession. Eternal security in salvation and the fluctuating experience of joy must not be confused; salvation stands immutable, while joy depends on the believer’s spiritual conduct.
Fellowship That Produces Contentment
Psalm 23 emphasizes that true contentment stems from a deep, personal relationship with the Lordrather than fleeting material blessings. David’s portrayal as a content sheep under the Lord’s guidance illustrates that provision and protection are secondary to the connection with the divine Shepherd. This relationship begins through recognizing Christ’s sacrifice and continues as one listens to His voice and follows His lead—where real satisfaction and joy are found, irrespective of life’s situations.
Oh, Magnify The Lord With Me!
The call to magnify the Lord is one of the greatest invitations to all the people to join together in praise. The life of the Lord Jesus exemplified this by glorifying God and bringing Him near to us. Paul the Apostle exemplified this through his desire to honor God in life and death, emphasizing that both our living and our passing can magnify and glorify Christ to those around us.
Biblical Principles for Giving
In the passages from 2 Corinthians 8 and 9, giving is highlighted as an expression of God’s grace, a means of fellowship, and a testament of self-giving and love. It’s a voluntary act that should be joyful, and is both an act of worship and a public demonstration of faith that brings glory to God.
Thoughts From Philippians 1
Philippians advocates for joy and unity amongst believers, with Paul emphasizing confidence in Christ, who will complete His good work in us. The church in Philippi, based on prayer, power, and praise, is exhorted to live worthy of the gospel, striving together and not succumbing to fear amidst adversities, recognizing suffering as a part of Christian calling.
Disciplines of A Disciple
Spiritual discipline is essential for spiritual maturity. We must allow the Spirit of God to use the Word of God to strengthen us and grow us to spiritual maturity, which is the by-product of a spiritually disciplined life dependent on the Lord.
Caught In A Cave
The Cave of Adullam became a training ground for David and his mighty men. Everyone experiences cave like circumstances in life. Your cave can be a dark, cold, and lonely place or it can become a classroom in the school of God where we learn that He is our refuge and He is all we need!