Refusing the Grace From God!

Grace is God’s favor bestowed on the unworthy. A favor is something that cannot be earned, though it may require conditions of the recipient. The Lord judged Sodom worthy of His wrath (Genesis 19:12-13). When Lot tried to persuade his sons-in-law to leave Sodom, they thought he was joking (verse 14). They refused the grace of God. Sinners find it difficult to believe that their sinful pleasures will come to an end. Lot himself delayed his departure (verses 15-16). Apparently he did not take God’s threat seriously. He even presumed to recommend the best city for his family to enter after escaping Sodom’s destruction (verses 17-19). God’s grace teaches us how to escape another destruction (Titus 2:11-12). Are you listening?

Jesus will come very soon and He wants you and I to be ready for that day that is about to come 2 Peter 3:9-10.

In Love

Eric C

Training Your Children.

Training Your Children
READ Deuteronomy 6:4-7
Proverbs 22:6 states, “Train up a child in the way he should go, even when he is old he will not depart from it.” Training involves purposeful, consistent, and diligent actions. But one research project found, on average, fathers in America spend five minutes or less each day talking with their children.God has a plan to train children as He intended. Teaching our kids starts with a foundation of love. All people, especially the young, desperately need to feel accepted, loved, and valued. If they don’t find validation at home, they’ll look elsewhere. Children need to hear their parents say things like, “I love you,” “I value you,” and “You have what it takes.”A second part of training a child involves the parent’s relationship with God. We can’t share what we don’t have. A person’s relationship with Jesus must be real and exciting. Otherwise, it’ll be impossible to teach others about how to have intimacy with the Lord. You can use two effective training tools with children. The first one is your testimony. Share what God is doing in your life. The second tool is your example. A powerful lesson is driven home when a child sees his parent admitting fault, asking for forgiveness, or expressing gratitude for God’s mercy. The stakes are high. If we disobey the Lord and fail to teach our little ones correctly, we make them vulnerable to the world’s teaching. Not only does this harm our precious children; it also hinders the next generation.

Are we thinking in the next generation?

The let's train our children in the Lord.

In Love

Eric C

What Is Calvinism?

"Calvinism" refers to five major doctrines of John Calvin.
Who was John Calvin?
John Calvin was one of the most prominent theologians of the Protestant Reformation. He was born in France on July 10, 1509 and died in Geneva on May 27, 1564.
Calvin began studying to become a Catholic priest. But being more interested in law and the humanities, he was not ordained. On November 1, 1533, Calvin gave a speech attacking the Catholic Church and calling for reforms. From that time forward, he became the most influential Reformation theologian. Today, many Protestant denominations adhere to Calvin's doctrines to some degree (some adhere to one of his doctrines, while others adhere to all five).
While Calvin was in Geneva, the Reformed Churches (Presbyterian) accepted his doctrine as though they were infallible. Calvin is, therefore, known as the founder of the Reformed Churches (Presbyterian Church).
Overview of CalvinismJohn Calvin's five main doctrines were adopted as the foundation of the Reformed system of doctrine. They are conveyed in the acronym "TULIP", which was developed by adherents of Calvinism after Calvin's death.
Total inability (total hereditary depravity, original sin): man is totally depraved, the guilt of sin passes from generation to generation originating with Adam.
Unconditional election (predestination): God has predestined certain people to be saved.
Limited atonement: Christ died only for the people who had been predestined.
Infallible grace (irresistible grace): the Holy Spirit operates directly upon people, who have been predestined, to convert them.
Perseverance of the saints (once saved always saved): it is impossible for the elect (the predestined) to fall away once they have been converted.
Total Inability (Total Hereditary Depravity, Original Sin)While John Calvin studied to become a Catholic priest, he undoubtedly learned the Catholic doctrine of original sin. Roman Catholics believe that babies are "born with a fallen human nature and tainted by original sin" (rf. Catechism of the Catholic Church). John Calvin's doctrine of original sin and sprinkling babies is closely related to the Catholic Church's doctrine (rf. Calvin's Institutes of the Christian Religion, Book 4, Chapters 15 and 16).
Calvin is known as the founder of the Reformed Churches (Presbyterian Church). He taught that each person's life perished, "having been extinguished by the sin of Adam" (Calvin's Commentary on 1 John 1:1), and that each person has a depraved nature (rf. Institutes of the Christian Religion by John Calvin). Therefore, Presbyterians believe that each person inherits original sin from Adam and is born lost in sin being hostile to God, slaves to Satan, and servants to sin (rf. Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), The Book of Confessions).
The doctrine of total inability (i.e., total hereditary depravity, original sin) is not taught in the Bible. God tells us that we do not inherit anyone's sin (Ezek. 18:20; cf. 2 Ki. 14:6). We sin after being tempted when we are carried away and enticed by our own lusts (Ja. 1:13-15).
Jesus teaches us that we must become as little children to enter the kingdom of God (Matt. 18:3-4; Lk. 18:16-17) -- we must be as infants regarding evil (1 Cor. 14:20). Babies are not born as sinners (as Calvinists would have us believe). If they die, they are safe, because they have no sin.
Unconditional Election (Predestination)Calvin's doctrine of unconditional election (predestination) contends that God has predestined some people to be saved and some people to be lost. This doctrine maintains that man does not have a free will.
Calvin taught that God did not elect (predestine) people by just looking into the future to see who would and would not obey. Calvin taught that God literally elected some people to be saved and allows everyone else to be lost. Commenting on Matt. 11:25-26, Calvin said, "This verse is impressive in two respects. The fact that not all receive the gospel is not due to the impotence of God, who could readily make all creatures submit to his empire. Secondly, that some arrive at faith, while others remain stupefied and obstinate, is due to his free election. He draws some to himself and passes others by; and in so doing, he himself distinguishes among men, whose situation by nature is the same" (Calvin Commentary VII: Election and Predestination).
Calvin harmonizes his doctrine of unconditional election (predestination) teaching that:
Everyone is born a sinner (total inability, original sin).
God elects (predestines) those who will be saved (unconditional election).
Christ, therefore, just died for the people who had been predestined to be saved (limited atonement).
The Holy Spirit operates directly upon the people who have been predestined to salvation and converts them (infallible grace). He does not work on those who are not predestined to salvation allowing them to be lost.
It is impossible for the elect (the predestined) to fall away once they are converted (perseverance of the saints, once saved always saved).
Calvin's doctrine of unconditional election (predestination) is not taught in the Bible. God desires all men to be saved (1 Tim. 2:4) and does not wish for anyone to perish (2 Pet. 3:9; cf. Ezek. 18:23). God has not predestined anyone to be lost or to perish.
Correspondingly, the Bible teaches that God has given us a free will to either obey or disobey Him. Christians can sin willfully (Heb. 10:26) and are commanded to work out their salvation with fear and trembling (Phil. 2:12). Christians are not predestined to salvation. They can fall from grace (Gal. 5:4; Heb. 12:15).
Limited AtonementFive-point Calvinists believe that everyone is born in sin (original sin) and that God has predestined (unconditional election) some people to be saved and allows everyone else to be lost. Since God predestined only some people to be saved, they reason, Christ's blood only atoned (limited atonement) for the sins of the people who were predestined. The people who are not predestined to be saved have no way of being saved and are eternally lost from birth.
Calvinism's doctrine of limited atonement is not taught in the Bible. God has not predestined some people to be saved and some people to be lost. God desires all men to be saved (1 Tim. 2:4) and all men to come to repentance (2 Pet. 3:9). The Bible says that:
Christ died for all (2 Cor. 5:14-15).
Christ died for the ungodly (Rom. 5:6).
Christ died for us, while we were yet sinners (Rom. 5:8).
Christ died for our sins (1 Cor. 15:3).
Christ died for sins, for the unjust (1 Pet. 3:18).
Jesus did not die for a limited number of people, He died for all (2 Cor. 5:14-15). He is the author (source) of eternal salvation to those who obey Him (Heb. 5:9), and invites everyone to come and be saved (Rev. 22:17). Jesus has not excluded anyone from obeying Him and being saved.
Infallible GraceThe doctrine of infallible grace (irresistible grace) asserts that the Holy Spirit operates directly upon people who were predestined, to convert them. Conversely, the Holy Spirit allegedly does not work upon the people who have not been predestined; therefore, God allows them to be lost. As a result, some denominations require people to have an esoteric spiritual experience to be saved. And, some have developed a doctrine of "praying through" to be saved.
Calvin's doctrine of infallible grace (irresistible grace) is not taught in the Bible.
First, we must remember that God desires all men to be saved (1 Tim. 2:4; 2 Pet. 3:9; cf. Ezek. 18:23). God has not predestined some people to be saved allowing everyone else to be lost. So, Calvin's doctrine of infallible grace is based upon a false assumption.
Second, we must realize that God works through His word to convert people (Rom. 1:16-17; 1 Th. 2:13). The Holy Spirit does not work in some mysterious way to just convert a predestined group of people, but He speaks through the word (Acts 1:16-18; Eph. 6:17; Heb. 3:7; 2 Pet. 1:20-21). The Bible teaches that we are born of the Spirit through God's word (Jn. 3:5-8; 1 Pet. 1:22- 23). So, the Scriptures tell us that:
The Spirit gives life and the word gives life (Jn. 6:63; Ps. 119:50, 93).
God saves through the Spirit and the word (Tit. 3:5; Ja. 1:21; cf. 1 Pet. 1:22-23).
We are washed and sanctified by the Holy Spirit and the word (1 Cor. 6:11; Jn. 17:17; Eph. 5:26; cf. Tit. 3:5; 1 Pet. 1:22-23).
Lastly, we must realize that every example of conversion is ascribed to the word.
Jews gladly received Peter's word and were baptized (Acts 2:40-41).
Samaritans were baptized when they believed Philip's preaching (Acts 8:12-13).
Philip preached from the Scriptures and the eunuch was baptized (Acts 8:35-39).
Saul was told what to do and was baptized to wash away his sins (Acts 9:6, 18; 22:16).
Peter spoke the words by which Cornelius would be saved and he was baptized (Acts 10:22, 33-48; 11:14).
Lydia heard the things spoken by Paul and was baptized (Acts 16:13-15).
The jailer heard the word of the Lord and was baptized (Acts 16:31-34).
The Corinthians heard, believed, and were baptized (Acts 18:8; 1 Cor. 15:1-2).
Men in Ephesus were baptized after Paul taught them (Acts 19:1-7).
Not only is Calvin's doctrine of infallible grace (irresistible grace) a false doctrine, but it is a doctrine of hopelessness. It erroneously asserts that God only helps a predestined group of people. Fortunately, our God is a God of love and wants everyone to be saved (1 Tim. 2:4; 2 Pet. 3:9).
Perseverance of the SaintsThe doctrine of perseverance of the saints (once saved, always saved) asserts that it's impossible for the elect (the predestined) to fall away once the Holy Spirit works to convert them. This doctrine is not taught in the Bible.
Perseverance of the saints may be the most popular of Calvin's doctrines. Yet, the Scriptures clearly teach that once someone is saved, he can be lost.
Christians can fall from grace (Gal. 5:4; Heb. 12:15).
Christians can stray from the truth (Ja. 5:19).
Some Christians will depart from the faith (1 Tim. 4:1-3; cf. Col. 2:16-23; 1 Tim. 6:21; Ja. 5:19-20).
Christians can fall away from God (1 Cor. 10:12; Heb. 3:12; 6:4-8 ).
The branches in Jesus that do not bear fruit are taken away, cast into the fire, and burned (Jn. 15:1-6). Because, they do not keep Jesus' commandments (Jn. 15:10).
The apostle Paul knew that he could be lost after being saved (1 Cor. 9:27; Phil. 3:12-14).
Some Christians had already turned aside after Satan (i.e., fell away) during the first century (1 Tim. 5:15; 6:21).
False prophets and false teachers lead some Christians away from God by exploiting them with deceptive words (2 Pet. 2:1-22; 3:16; cf. Act 20:28-30).
Therefore, Christians are admonished to:
Obey, and work out their own salvation with fear and trembling (Phil. 2:12).
Take heed lest they fall (1 Cor. 10:12).
Endure, not throwing away their confidence and shrinking back to destruction (Heb. 10:35-39).
Be nourished in the words of faith and in the sound doctrine (1 Tim. 4:6-10).
Take care that they are not hardened by the deceitfulness of sin having an evil, unbelieving heart that falls away from the living God (Heb. 3:6-15).
Be diligent to enter heaven, lest they fall away (Heb. 4:11).
Be diligent to make their calling and election sure (2 Pet. 1:10).
Exercise their senses to discern good and evil by becoming skilled in the word of righteousness (Heb. 5:12-14).
A result of this doctrine (perseverance of the saints) is that many people believe they can do anything and still be saved. Unfortunately, the eternal result is damnation.

The Importance Of Baptism.

READ Matthew 3:13-17
Children sometimes identify themselves with superheroes or other characters. For a season, they'll adopt the mannerisms, dress, and speech patterns of their current favorite. As Christians, we're supposed to imitate Jesus.Our Savior commands us to follow His example in all things, including baptism: Matthew 28:19 says, "Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit." At the beginning of His public ministry, Jesus chose to be baptized. John the Baptist was calling the Jewish people to confess their sins and demonstrate repentance through immersion in the Jordan River. Sinless Jesus joined the crowd at the river and asked John to baptize Him. The Lord chose to affiliate Himself with sinful man. When we follow His example in the waters of baptism, we're publicly confessing our faith in the Savior and identifying ourselves with Him. Baptism allows us to demonstrate our connection with Jesus and with our brothers and sisters in Christ. We're all members of one body under the authority of the same Lord. But it's important to remember that faith "alone" is not enough as many in the religious world are teaching, and they are using Ephesians 2:8-9 as an excuse to disobey the commmanment of baptism. Jesus will be pleased if we obey what He is commanding us in his word.
Remember that to obey is better than all the sacrifices that we might give to God in our entire life.

In Love

Eric C

Jesus Is The Way

In John 14:1-6 we read, "Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also. And whither I go ye know, and the way ye know. Thomas saith unto him, Lord, we know not whither thou goest; and how can we know the way? Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me."

There are two lessons we want to draw out from this text.
First, Jesus has gone to prepare a place for us, if we are making the preparations to go to heaven! People do not go to heaven by accident, by mishap, or inadvertently. We must desire to go, for hope is necessary, Rm.8:24-25. We must make a decision to go, which takes place when we obey the gospel, Ac.2:36-41. And we must be faithful till death, Rev.2:10. Yes, heaven is a prepared place for a prepared people.
Secondly, we want to note from our text that Jesus is the way to get to heaven. He is not "a way" but he is "the way." It has been said by men that there are many ways unto to God, not so, Jesus is the way. There is only ONE way to God and to get to heaven, and that is through Christ and his church, Eph.5:32, Ac.20:28.

The gospel brings us the good news of this way of salvation. Have you turned to the Lord Jesus Christ, for he is the way, the truth, and the life?

In Love

Eric C.

Knowing God Our Father.

READ Matthew 6:9-14
The Lord’s Prayer expresses God’s fatherhood to His human children. In Jesus’ day, calling God “Father” must have seemed like a radical and marvelous concept. The Israelites understood a link between people and a divine being. But Christ’s words implied a personal relationship.Today, adoption into God’s family is still an exciting offer for anyone seeking His love and acceptance. How amazing the Holy Creator wants a relationship with us! By obeying Jesus Christ and His word as Savior, a person is welcomed into the Lord’s family. This happens even though you can never be as holy or perfect as the heavenly Father.The bond isn’t based on your own abilities, but on God’s great love. The wording of the Lord’s Prayer guides Christians to develop intimacy in their relationship with God. This prayer develops a connection between father and child.The relationship Jesus demonstrated directs spiritually-adopted children to share needs, confess sin, and admit weakness. In return, the Father answers prayers. He also makes His presence known during quiet times. God offers comfort and assurance that He is always near.

The "model" prayer is there to help us as to how we must ask the Lord in prayer.

Do you have a relationship with our Father in heaven?

In Love

Eric C

Son And Only Begotten Son.

By Maurice Barnett
This term "son" has several meanings, as does the word "father." It may refer to the offspring or posterity of a human, such as son or daughter; it may refer to offspring several generations down the line, such as in genealogies. A common use is to refer to sameness or likeness to something.
(1) Mark 3:17 - sons of thunder—an explosive character.
(2) Luke 10:6 - son of peace—a peaceful man.
(3) Luke 20:34 - sons of this world—meaning worldly minded.
(4) John 17:12 - son of perdition—a wicked man.
(5) Acts 4:35 - son of consolation—a helpful man.
In John 10:30, Jesus says that "I and the Father are one." The Jews well understood that this was a claim for Himself of being God. They accused Him of blasphemy and sought to stone Him. For Jesus to say that He was the Son of God meant that He was equal with the Father, He was also God. See also verse 36.
For Jesus to say that "I and the Father are one," was the same as saying that He was the "Son of God" and thus equal with the Father.
Yet, another meaning of His being a Son is found in Psalm 2. The time of the fulfillment of this prophecy is clearly specified in Scripture.
(1) Psalm 2:1-5 speaks of the nations setting themselves against God and His work, but God will overcome them. See Acts 4:23-30.
(2) Verses 8-12 speak of the universal dominion of the Christ. Following His resurrection, Jesus declared that all authority has been given to Him in heaven and on earth, Matthew 28:18. The actual time that this universal dominion began was when He ascended to sit down at the right hand of God, Ephesians 1:19-23.
(3) Verse 6 says that God would set His king on His holy hill of Zion. This refers to the beginning of the rulership of Christ as King on His throne. See Acts 2:29-33 for the fulfillment connected with His resurrection.
(4) Verse 7 says that God has declared the decree, "thou art my Son, this day have I begotten thee." Here is the only begotten Son. Acts 13:32-34 says that it was fulfilled in the resurrection of Jesus, not His physical birth by Mary! See also, Romans 1:1-4.
(5) This was also the time when He would be High Priest, Hebrews 5:5-6. Psalm 2:7 is specifically referred to in that passage in Hebrews. See also Hebrews 8:4, Zechariah 6:12-13. Jesus did not become High Priest until he went to Heaven following His resurrection.
The prophecy and fulfillment of Psalm 2 and the fact of Jesus’ being the only begotten Son of God relates to the time of His resurrection, not His birth by Mary. Jesus is never referred to as "Son" in the Old Testament except in prophecy.
Further, "Son of God" is used as a title equal to that of "Christ" and "King." Look at the following: Matthew 16:16, 26:63, Mark 14:61, John 1:49, John 11:27. There are numerous other passages that say the same thing.
The phrase, Son of God, declares sameness with the Father and is a title of His position.
Monogenes generally means that which is unique. It may be used to refer to an offspring who is one of a kind, an only child. Luke 7:12 records Jesus’ raising a dead boy, the "only son" of a widow of Nain. Luke 8:42 describes the healing of the "only daughter" of one Jairus. There is something unique about an only child in any family.
Hebrews 11:17 says that Abraham offered his "only begotten son," Isaac. In His instructions to Abraham in the Old Testament, concerning the offering, God refers to Isaac as "thine only son." However, though Isaac was Abraham’s literal offspring, the fact is, Isaac was neither the only son of Abraham nor the first son to be born to him. Ishmael was Abraham’s first born son. This should immediately tell us that the phrase, only begotten son, is being used in some sense other than a literal, physical, offspring. It is a figurative phrase that identifies Isaac as the child of promise through whom the blessings would come, a unique position. In this passage, he was only begotten in that he, not Ishmael, was the sole channel of God’s promises for the future; no other person was to be considered.
In the same manner, Jesus was the Father’s sole representative through whom the promises of salvation would come. He is referred to as the only begotten Son of the Father in several places, John 1:14, 18, 3:16,18, Hebrews 11:17, I John 4:9, but it has nothing to do with His origin, nor a literal father/son relationship, nor to any idea of Jesus’ being less than God, nor that he lost any of His powers and abilities of God. The phrase refers to uniqueness rather than derivation; it carries no idea of generation as it does with humans. We saw this amplified in the previous section on the word "son."
In Love
Eric C

Peace At Any Price?

READ Romans 12:17-18
God wants our relationships to be peaceful. He understands human nature. God knows there’ll be people that we can’t live in harmony with. Scripture states Christians are responsible to resolve conflict with their fellow man. This doesn’t mean pursuing tranquility at any price.Keeping peace among family, coworkers, or friends sometimes requires going to great lengths. Scripture sets guidelines for frequent forgiveness, godly methods of correction, and right attitudes towards enemies. All of these principles run counter to human nature. The only way to successfully apply them is through the power and grace of Jesus Christ.Despite our best efforts, peace is not always possible. When our actions are repeatedly rejected, ending the quest may be appropriate. If harmony is possible only by violating Scripture, we must refuse to compromise.An attitude of “peace, no matter what” can affect who we become. Genuine feelings are repressed. Resentment and hurt get buried for the sake of pretending that all is well. The result will likely be either emotional turmoil or an explosive release of frustration. Neither is healthy or holy. Instead, approach others honestly. Live in true peace as stated in Romans 12:18 “if possible, so far as it depends upon you”.

In Love

Eric C

The Only Way To God

"Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me." (John 14:6)
"For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus;" (I Timothy 2:5)
Perhaps you have heard someone say "there are many ways to God". This is a very popular claim but it is simply false. There is only one way to God, and that one way is through Jesus Christ, God's Son.

All other ways will lead you to judgment by God for your sins, followed by punishment in the eternal Lake of Fire.
"But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death." (Revelation 21:8)
You have broken many of God's laws. You have lied. You have stolen things that did not belong to you. You have dishonored your father. You have had lust in your heart. You have committed many wicked sins. This breaking of God's law is called sin. God is Holy. God is righteous. God must therefore judge your for your sins when you die. God will read out your sins out of books at the Great White Throne Judgment. You will then be cast into Hell to burn there forever as punishment by God for your sins.
"For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord." (Romans 6:23)
Jesus died on a cross to pay for your sins. What Jesus did on the cross for you 2,000 years ago is just as effective today as it was then. If you trust Jesus to pay for your sins, then you will not have to pay for these sins yourself in the Lake of Fire when you die. Instead, Jesus will forgive your sins and give you Eternal Life in Heaven with Him when you die.
"And this is the record, that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life." (I John 5:11-12)
Jesus died for your sins, was buried, rose again from the dead, and then ascended up into Heaven where He is now seated. The "Good News" or "Gospel", is that salvation from the penalty for your sins is now available to you through Jesus Christ. Jesus loves you and wants you to go to Heaven to be with Him when you die. Trust Jesus to pay for your sins, because Jesus is the only way to be forgiven for your sins by a Righteous and Holy God.

What you need to do in your life is:

Hear the gospel of Jesus-- Romans 10:17

Believe in that Gospel-- Mark 16:16

Repent of all your sins that you have committed in life--Acts 2:38

Confess Jesus as the Son of God in front of others-- Matthew 10:32,33; Romans 10:9, 10

Be baptized in water for the remission of your sins-- Acts 2:38; Acts 22:16; 1 Peter 3:21

After all that, live faithfully for God until death and He will give the crown of life-- Revelation 2:10.

Please, consider your life and your situation in from of God.

Remember, today is the day of Salvation.

In Love

Eric C.

Duties for June 8 2008

A.M. Announcements: Yvon H
Songs: Kufre E.
Reading: Chase G.
Lord’s Table: Timothy C & Tito C
Lesson: Maurice B. Gospel Series
Opening Prayer: Ken N
Closing Prayer: Oje I

P.M. Announcements: Yvon H
Songs: Yvon H
Reading: Carlos M
Lords’ Table: Timothy C
Lesson: Maurice B Gospel Series
Opening Prayer: Kelly K
Closing Prayer: Devin L

How To Pass Down Our Faith

READ Deuteronomy 4:9
The most valuable “possession” believers can leave to family and friends is faith in Jesus Christ. While loved ones must choose to trust in the Savior, Christians can and should share key biblical truths with them.Faith has many essential beliefs. The first found in Acts four is Salvation.

1) Salvation is found only in Jesus Christ. From an early age, children should be taught the most important relationship in their life is with the Lord. Believing in Him and obeying Him is vital.

2) Next, our faith means we believe everything that exists was created by the Lord. He owns it all. We’re managers of our resources, not owners. We’re to invest in God’s kingdom and not just spend on personal pleasures. His priorities are to become our own.

3) Another way we can pass down faith is by sharing God has a purpose for each of us. Ephesians 2:10 says discovering our purpose is very important. We can look for opportunities to share what we’re learning about God’s plan for our life. In the process, our family will become curious about what His purpose is for them.

4) Finally, as we pass on our faith, it’s important to know God will provide whatever we need to carry out His plan. Our heavenly Father gives us talents and spiritual gifts to achieve His purposes. He has promised that we’ll have what’s necessary to live a life pleasing to Him.The best time to share your faith is right now. Each day offers new opportunities to speak of our Savior. Think about those who you could pass along this precious possession to.

May the Lord help us to undestand the importantce of passing our faith to others.

In Love

Eric C

The Landmine Of Sexual Sin

READ James 1:14-16
Temptation’s power lies in its deceptive offer of instant pleasure without penalty. But the truth is sin always has consequences. The nature of sexual immorality is behavior becomes progressively worse. The costs then get higher and higher.

Rebellion against God causes some Christians to experience guilt and anxiety. Sexual sin carries additional consequences beyond the risk of pregnancy and disease. Sexual sin can cause emptiness, loneliness, and damaged self-esteem.Love should make two people want what’s best for each other. The best is always biblical. Sex apart from marriage is in violation of Scripture. Since the Lord cannot be part of it, some believers who give in to this temptation feel isolated from Him. They sense loneliness despite their human relationships. Their self-worth can easily erode. God created us for intimacy with Him. This can occur only when we’re obedient.

Some believers caught up in immorality may begin to doubt their salvation. They may wonder if their prayers are heard. What’s more, the Lord promises to give people over to their lust if they refuse to return to obedience.

In Romans 1:28, the Lord said He may let their conscience be hardened until they lose the capacity to determine right from wrong.

No momentary pleasure is worth this high price. But there is good news. No matter what we’ve done, Jesus’ blood forgives our sins. He welcomes us back into fellowship with Him when we confess and turn away from wrongdoing. We may still have to deal with physical and emotional consequences. But Jesus restores our spirit to purity.

In Love

Eric C

When We Feel Frustrated

READ Philippians 4:10-13
Many people have seasons of frustration in life.
Some feel hindered from achieving goals. The natural reaction is to blame circumstances or individuals instead of ourselves. External forces may trigger unhappiness. Sometimes we make changes to avoid irritation like quitting a job, ending friendships, or moving away. But we can’t find genuine peace that way.

When we feel frustrated, we need to investigate the cause. Discontent has three internal roots. One is not being able to accept ourselves as we were created. Our talents, personality, and physical attributes may not be what we desire. But, they’re exactly what we need to follow God’s will for our life. Dwelling on what we lack or what we would change distracts us from service. A second internal root for frustration is an unwillingness to deal with our past. We may have painful memories or recall mistakes that brought heartache. We need to admit their impact. Then we can confront any resulting emotional or psychological issues to move on in peace. The final source of frustration is a refusal to deal with behaviors or attitudes that are outside the Lord’s will. Holding on to an ungodly action often makes us try to justify ourselves to our Father and others.The human solution for frustration by changing external situations will fail every time.

The only way to end frustration is by relying on God for the strength to cope with its source.

Can we do that, Can we trust and depend in Him?

May the Lord Bless us.

In Love

Eric C

Serving God With A Soft Heart.

READ Jonah 4
Jonah was swallowed by a big fish, while trying to run from God. In the creature’s belly, he decided to follow the Lord’s will. When Jonah was called a second time to preach repentance in Nineveh, he obeyed.The often-overlooked part of this story is what happened after Jonah obeyed.
Jonah warned the people across the city of divine wrath. They responded by turning away from wickedness.The Ninevites’ response should have made Jonah happy. But, Jonah grieved over their sorrow. Jonah was upset about God’s mercy on them. Nineveh and Israel were longtime enemies. Jonah angrily told the Lord he had fled to Tarshish to avoid this time of forgiveness.
Jonah was displeased because his heart was hard. It was just as hard as when he ran to Tarshish. Trapped inside the fish, Jonah changed his mind about following the Lord’s command. He expressed willingness to do whatever God wanted him to do. But, Jonah’s heart still desired the Ninevites’ destruction.

Jonah’s bitterness and reluctance showed through in spite of his righteous actions..

God is not fooled by good behavior from a hard heart. Obeying Him with an unwilling spirit may achieve His purpose, but we lose the joy of our reward.

Perhaps the Lord has called you to serve Him in a way that is personally challenging. As you commit to following His will, pray also for a soft heart. You will find peace and blessing in doing the work, if you follow Him without hesitation.

Remember: "To obey God is better than all the sacrifices in this world"

In Love

Eric C