5/31 "Eternal Father"/The Navy Hymn

Today, in honor of my father who served in the U.S. Navy, and all the veterans who served and gave of their lives for all of us, I wanted to repost this devotion from the KJV Devos Blog. Thank you, soldiers!
Eternal Father, strong to save,
Whose arm hath bound the restless wave,
Who biddest the mighty ocean deep
Its own appointed limits keep;
Oh, hear us when we cry to Thee,
For those in peril on the sea!

O Christ! the Lord of hill and plain,
O’er which our traffic runs amain,
By mountain pass or valley low;
Wherever, Lord, Thy brethren go,
Protect them by Thy guarding hand,
From every peril on the land!

O Spirit, whom the Father sent,
To spread abroad the firmament;
O wind of heaven, by Thy might,
Save all who dare the eagle’s flight.
And keep them by Thy watchful care,
From every peril in the air.

O Trinity of love and power!
Our brethren shield in danger’s hour;
From rock and tempest, fire and foe,
Protect them wheresoever they go;
Thus evermore shall rise to Thee
Glad praise from air and land and sea.

BIBLE REFERENCE:
Matthew 8:23-27
Psalm 91:1-9
Romans 1:20-21
Colossians 2:9-10
Mathew 11:28

Lyrics: William Whiting
Born: November 1, 1825, Kensington, London, England.
Died: May 3, 1878, Winchester, Hampshire, England.

Composer: John Bacchus Dykes
Born: March 10, 1823, Hull, England.
Died: January 22, 1876, Ticehurst, Sussex, England.

HYMN HISTORY:

“Eternal Father, Strong to Save,” or known to many as the “Navy Hymn,” has often been cited as the most popular hymn for travelers in the English language. It was written, in 1860, by William Whitting and has gone through numerous revisions to the present time. The hymn text was so well thought of, when it was written, that it was included in the 1861 edition of the highly regarded, Anglican Church hymnal, Hymns Ancient and Modern. It was set to the fine “Melita” tune, especially composed for it by one of England’s highly esteemed church musicians of the nineteen century, John B. Dykes. The present version is taken from the 1937 edition of the Missionary Service Book, where one of the editors, Robert Nelson Spencer, added the second and third stanzas to include a plea for God’s protection for those who travel by land and air as well as those on the high seas.

...It is generally believed that Whiting’s text was inspired by the vivid description of the sea’s dangers and God’s promised deliverances as recorded in Psalm 107:23-32. ...It should be noted that the the first three stanzas of this hymn are each addressed to a different member of the Godhead:

Stanza 1 – To the Father who created and controls the sea (Job 38:10-11),
Stanza 2 – To the Son who has power to control the elements of nature (Matthew 8:23-27),
Stanza 3 – To the Spirit, who at the creation of the world “Brooded over the face of the waters” Genesis 1).

The fourth stanza petitions the love and power of the entire Trinity and urges men everywhere to “Praise the Lord for His loving-kindness, and for His wonderful works to the children of men” (Psalm 107:31). More... Also, more @ website HERE.

Online Baptist History Resources

Pastor David Peterman has been a member here for some time now. He has a blog that includes: "'Online Baptist History' portion of my personal blog. There are more than 30 Baptist History books posted there. Some have downloadable PDF. versions listed online for FREE! Baptists today know shamefully little about thier own heritage, here is a FREE resource for you!"

Check it out on his blog at http://revonator.wordpress.com/free-online-baptist-history-resources/

Dividing the Spoil

Life has varied stages, and I've lived through several by now. But there was a time when it seemed as though I would be forever stuck in one never-ending repetition of diaper-changing, laundry, dish-washing, nose-blowing.....you get the picture.

My mother-in-law would tell me to enjoy those days because they'd be over faster than I knew it, and would look back on them as the best years of my life! She was right!

Being a stay-at-home-mom (SAHM) was something I always wanted to be, don't get me wrong! After having worked outside the home our first year of marriage, before we had kids, I was sooo happy I could stay home with our children and do all the fun things involved in homemaking and child-rearing.

But, to be honest with you, I also struggled with wondering if I was doing enough for the L-rd. Sure, I was a pastor's wife and taught Sunday School, went on visitation, helped in the nursing home ministry. But I often felt that I really wasn't doing anything "great" for the L-rd!

It didn't help when I heard of other women who would go out on the streets passing out tracts, or doing one-on-one evangelizing with their husbands, when day after day, I'd just be staying home. Guilt swept over me. Did you know that the enemy can plague us with false guilt? I tell you, he can.

Are you a SAHM who is struggling with some of these thoughts? Do you find yourself getting frutrated, feeling that you are not doing anything for the L-rd because you remain at home with your children?

I'm sure you have been told that rearing children for the L-rd is, in itself, a very great and noble calling and ministry, and one not to be diminished in any way. And this is so true!! Being the best mother you can be; keeping a happy home; caring for your family----are all part of a very high calling of being a wife and mother. The value is immeasurable! And, if you are faithfully serving as a wife and mother, you are freeing your husband to do what it is that the L-rd has called him to do, whether he be a firefighter, a plumber, a physician, an electrician, a pastor, or whatever.

Did you know that G-d values what you do? He places great value....as much as those who are out on the front-lines serving Him in other, more obvious capacities! Does that surprise you? Let me give you some Scriptures to consider:

In I Samuel 30, we are told that while David and his men were away fighting the Philistines, the Amalekites had attacked the holdings of David's men and family at Ziklag, carrying off the women and children and all their possessions, then burning the place. When David and his 600 men arrived back home, they found Ziklag burned and plundered, and everyone gone, including David's two wives. After David enquired of the L-rd and found out who had done this, he and his men pursued hard after the Amalekites.

David's men were already tired and worn from the previous battle. In fact, 200 of his men were so spent, that when they arrived at the brook, they could go no farther, so they remained behind. The other 400 went with David and overcame the Amalekites after a hard-fought night and day battle. David and his men rescued all their people and belongings, losing nothing and acquiring much spoil.

When spoil was won in a battle, it was the custom that those who fought divided the spoil among themselves. However, there were some wicked men in David's troop, who, upon rejoining the 200 men who remained behind, did not want to share in the spoil with them.

David rebuked them, saying (vs. 24), "....but as his part is that goeth down to the battle, so shall his part be that tarrieth by the stuff: they shall part alike."

Verse 25 goes on to say, "And it was so from that day forward, that he made it a statute and an ordinance for Israel unto this day."

If you are a SAHM, tarrying by the stuff, keeping the home and nurturing your children, you are worthy to divide the spoils and reap the rewards of those who go out to battle with the Word in the world.

Do not allow the enemy to make you feel less of a servant of G-d because you keep the home fires burning.

David wrote in Psalm 68:12---"Kings of armies did flee apace: and she that tarried at home divided the spoil."

The Devil's Armour

As related in a conversation between Diabolus (the Devil) and the town of Mansoul (man's soul). This was taken from John Bunyan's allegory entitled The Holy War. As you read this, contrast it with the Armour of God in Ephesians 6, and realize how much Satan is a deceiver and counterfeiter of the truth and of spiritual things.

Up, and stand to your arms, that now, while you have any leisure, I may learn you some feats of war. Armour for you I have, and by me it is; yea, and it is sufficient for Mansoul from top to toe; nor can you be hurt by what his force can do, if you shall keep it well girt and fastened about you. Come, therefore, to my castle, and welcome, and harness yourselves for the war. There is helmet, breastplate, sword, and shield, and what not, that will make you fight like men.

‘1. My helmet, otherwise called an head piece, is hope of doing well at last, what lives soever you live. This is that which they had who said, that they should have peace, though they walked in the wickedness of their heart, to add drunkenness to thirst {De 29:19}. A piece of approved armour this is, and whoever has it, and can hold it, so long no arrow, dart, sword, or shield can hurt him. This, therefore, keep on, and thou wilt keep off many a blow, my Mansoul.

‘2. My breastplate is a breastplate of iron {Re 9:9}. I had it forged in mine own country, and all my soldiers are armed therewith. In plain language, it is a hard heart, a heart as hard as iron, and as much past feeling as a stone; the which if you get and keep, neither mercy shall win you, nor judgment fright you. This, therefore, is a piece of armour most necessary for all to put on that hate Shaddai, and that would fight against him under my banner.

‘3. My sword is a tongue that is set on fire of hell, and that can bend itself to speak evil of Shaddai, his Son, his ways, and people. Use this; it has been tried a thousand times twice told. Whoever hath it, keeps it, and makes that use of it as I would have him, can never be conquered by mine enemy. {Ps 57:4; 64:3; Jas 3:6}

‘4. My shield is unbelief, or calling into question the truth of the word, or all the sayings that speak of the judgment that Shaddai has appointed for wicked men. Use this shield: many attempts he has made upon it, and sometimes, it is true, it has been bruised; but they that have writ of the wars of Emmanuel against my servants, have testified that he could do no mighty work there because of their unbelief. Now, to handle this weapon of mine aright, it is not to believe things because they are true, of what sort or by whomsoever asserted. If he speaks of judgment, care not for it; if he speaks of mercy, care not for it; if he promises, if he swears that he would do to Mansoul, if it turns, no hurt, but good, regard not what is said, question the truth of all, for it is to wield the shield of unbelief aright, and as my servants ought and do; and he that cloth otherwise loves me not, nor do I count him but an enemy to me. {Job 15:26; Ps 76:3; Mr 6:5-6}

‘5. Another part or piece,’ said Diabolus, ‘of mine excellent armour is a dumb and prayerless spirit, a spirit that scorns to cry for mercy: wherefore be you, my Mansoul, sure that you make use of this. What! cry for quarter! Never do that, if you would be mine. I know you are stout men, and am sure that I have clad you with that which is armour of proof. Wherefore, to cry to Shaddai for mercy, let that be far from you. Besides all this, I have a maul, firebrands, arrows, and death, all good hand weapons, and such as will do execution.’

The Lord's Deputy

The Lord’s Deputy stands in the night, face covered by the darkness. At the ready the Lord’s Deputy stands, prepared to defend the weak, help the helpless, and protect the innocent. He knows the risk and understands the dangers around him. He knows he may have to pay the ultimate price, the ultimate sacrifice, he knows he may have to give his life.

The Lord’s Deputy is not afraid. His heart is prepared; he is wearing his armor. The Armor is special, different from any other kind of armor ever fashioned. It is stronger than any bulletproof vest, harder than any helmet, more powerful than any weapon.

The Lord’s Deputy wears this special armor, never taking it off.

The Armor girds his loins with truth. Truth has no flaws, it can never change, and it is absolute.

His chest is covered with a special breastplate. It is the breastplate of righteousness. Nothing can penetrate it. Evil cannot stand against righteousness. Evil cannot hurt the Lord’s Deputy who is clad in armor.

On his feet are shoes like no other. Shoes of the gospel of peace. Ready to go to anyone, no matter where or who they are, if they are willing to hear the truth of Jesus Christ and be shown the way to eternal life.

He takes with him a shield. The Shield of Faith, knowing that faith in Jesus Christ is stronger than any weapon the enemy may fashion. He knows the enemy can kill the flesh, but can never hurt the soul. His soul belongs to the Lord.

He carries only one weapon; the Sword of the Spirit which is the Word of God. It is sharper than any two edged sword which is able to penetrate even the heart of stone.

The Deputy of the Lord battles evil on the earth. He fights against not only flesh and blood, but also principalities and powers of this dark world. He must deal with the sin of man for the Lord does not bear the sword in vain.

Yes, the Lord’s Deputy knows the dangers, he knows the cost, but he is ready. He has on the Armor of God.

Written by Tim Fisher
Used With Permission on my sites - hopefully, he will not mind me posting it here as well.

Latest from BaptistQuips.Blogspot

"If what they are saying about you is true, mend your ways. If it isn't true, forget it, and go on and serve the Lord." - H.A. Ironside

"There is no other alternative. It must be Christ or hell, and to reject the one is to choose the other." - H.A. Ironside

We do our best and God does the rest.

"The best determiner of the will of God is the Word of God!" - J.T. Roberts

"Behind every tragedy of human character is a long process of wicked thinking." -Bob Jones, Sr.

Forgive us Lord, for so often we seek the things in your hand rather than the things of your heart.

"God does not waste suffering; if he ploughs it is because He purposes a crop." -J. Oswald Sanders

Lord Jesus, I can't; You never said I could. Lord Jesus, You can; and always said You would!

"You can do more than pray, after you have prayed; but you cannot do more than pray until you have prayed." - John Bunyan

"Next to the wonder of seeing my Saviour will be, I think, the wonder that I made so little use of the power of prayer." - D.L. Moody

"Patience is love stretched out." - Marty Dunn

http://baptistquips.blogspot.com/

Stand Still and See

Stand still, and see the salvation of the Lord." --Exodus 14:13

INTRODUCTION:
1. These words contain God's command to the believer when he is reduced to great straits and brought into extraordinary difficulties. He cannot retreat; he cannot go forward; he is shut up on the right hand and on the left; what is he now to do? The Master's word to him is, "Stand still." It will be well for him if at such times he listens only to his Master's word, for other and evil advisers come with their suggestions.

2. DESPAIR whispers, "Lie down and die; give it all up." But God would have us put on a cheerful courage, and even in our worst times, rejoice in His love and faithfulness.

3. COWARDICE says, "Retreat; go back to the worldling's way of action; you cannot play the Christian's part, it is too difficult. Relinquish your principles." But, however much Satan may urge this course upon you, you cannot follow it if you are a child of God. His divine fiat has bid thee go from strength to strength, and so thou shalt, and neither death nor hell shall turn thee from thy course. What, if for a while thou art called to stand still, yet this is but to renew thy strength for some greater advance in due time.

4. PRECIPITANCY cries, "do something. Stir yourself; to stand still and wait, is sheer idleness." We must be doing something at once--we must do it so we think--instead of looking to the Lord, who will not only do something but will do everything.

6. PRESUMPTION boasts, "If the sea be before you, march into it and expect a miracle."

CONCLUSION:
But FAITH listens neither to Presumption, nor to Despair, nor to Cowardice, nor to Precipitancy, but it hears God say, "Stand still," and immovable as a rock it stands. "Stand still";--keep the posture of an upright man, ready for action, expecting further orders, cheerfully and patiently awaiting the directing voice; and it will not be long ere God shall say to you, as distinctly as Moses said it to the people of Israel, "Go forward."

Proverbs 3:5-7 Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the LORD, and depart from evil. - Cesar E. Rodriguez

Steve and Sabrina Parker, Missionaries to the deaf

This is the song that the Parkers did during the mission conference in Livingston, Tx last week. They did a skit while it played and acted it out. It tore my heart out...its worth listening to. What a blessing, it really made me cry.

For those of you interested in supporting a deaf ministry, we support the Parkers ourself. Here is the link to their facebook if you would like to add them. They really have a heart for souls. They are hearing also, and Bro. Parker is a really good preacher if you would like to invite them in to preach and present their work. (along with 10 signing kiddo's) grin

http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/profile.php?id=573958185&ref=ts

A Well Of Living Waters

A Well Of Living Waters

Song of Solomon 4:15 A fountain of gardens, a well of living waters, and streams from Lebanon.

In the verse just quoted, Solomon (picturing Jesus) stated that the believer is like a fountain... like streams... like a well of living waters. What exactly does this mean? If we go to the New Testament book of John, we will see two passages that reveal the meaning of this and other similar Old Testament references:

John 4:13-14 Jesus answered and said unto her, Whosoever drinketh of this water shall thirst again: But whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life.

Salvation through faith in Christ, everlasting life - a well of water springing up from the believer's soul. When we place our complete confidence in Christ, our faith in Him alone for salvation, He quenches that thirst deep inside us that only He could ever fill. This thirst to know the True and Living God will be quenched when we come to the Saviour and receive Him through repentance and faith. According to John 4:14, the true believer will NEVER thirst again in the way they did before coming to Jesus Christ. The word used in the Greek for never is a double emphatic, and means "No Never!" "The Lord Jesus Christ is saying that when we come to Him for salvation, He will completely fill that void inside us and we will never, ever thirst again!" He is THE Fountain of Living Waters.

But the phrase is also used in reference to the well of water flowing up within the believer himself - ie. spiritual water flowing within and out of the believer who is filled with the Holy Spirit, walking in fellowship with his Lord:

John 7:37-39 In the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried, saying, If any man thirst, let him come unto me, and drink. He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water. (But this spake he of the Spirit, which they that believe on him should receive: for the Holy Ghost was not yet given; because that Jesus was not yet glorified.)

The Lord Jesus Christ promised here that the Holy Spirit - who would indwell all believers after Christ resurrected from the dead and ascended into Heaven - would give power to the life that is submitted to Him. He would create a spiritual fountain within each child of God that not only would quench their own thirst but would be able to flow out to others - a source of life and refreshment.

Barnes makes the following comment on rivers in verse 38: "This word is used to express abundance, or a full supply. It means here that those who are Christians shall diffuse large, and liberal, and constant blessings on their fellow-men; or, as Jesus immediately explains it, that they shall be the instruments by which the Holy Spirit shall be poured down on the world."

Jamieson, Fausset and Brown say this about rivers of living water: "It refers primarily to the copiousness, but indirectly also to the diffusiveness, of this living water to the good of others." Webster's 1828 Dictionary defines copious as: "Abundant; plentiful; in great quantities; full; ample; furnishing full supplies"; and diffuse as: "To spread; to send out or extend in all directions; to disperse."

Living water is flowing water. If you look at the Hebrew words underlying the phrase "running water" (in Leviticus 14:5-6; 50-52; 15:13 and Numbers 19:17), you will notice that it means "living water"; ie. water that is always flowing, running freely, springing or gushing up, not stopped up or stagnant. Consider the Dead Sea - water is continually flowing into that Sea, but nothing ever flows out, and there is no life in that Sea!

The Lord wants the water of His Holy Spirit to be flowing through us daily as we serve Him! To be filled with His Spirit means to be controlled or influenced by Him, to be guided by His Word and led by His Spirit in our lives. When we are not quick to obey His prompting, we grieve or quench His work in us and through us and we become like a garden inclosed... a spring shut up, a fountain sealed (see Song of Solomon 4:12 - Is Your Armour On?), where the water is not flowing forth, but is drying up.

John 7:38 He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water.

I find it interesting that Jesus referred to the Old Testament Scriptures as testifying to what He was proclaiming on that great feast day. What may seem a little confusing is the fact that Jesus is not quoting one specific passage, but making a general summation. When we start to dig into the Old Testament a little further, we will find that this theme of living water (and other related terms) runs throughout various books.

As we have seen from the opening verse in this study, the Song of Solomon refers to a well of living waters. There are also various references throughout other OT books, but especially the book of Isaiah.

I remember going through a "dry period" last fall, after I came back from my Mom's memorial, I felt so drained spiritually, so dry inside - but I made a choice to keep my focus on the Lord and I can remember crying out to Him and pleading with Him to quench that thirst inside, that dryness that situations in my life had just made almost unbearable. Then I picked up my Bible and started reading the very next chapter from where I was currently reading, and came across these verses in answer to my prayer:

Isaiah 41:17-18 When the poor and needy seek water, and there is none, and their tongue faileth for thirst, I the LORD will hear them, I the God of Israel will not forsake them. I will open rivers in high places, and fountains in the midst of the valleys: I will make the wilderness a pool of water, and the dry land springs of water.

It was not a coincidence that the Holy Spirit led me to keep reading! As I meditated on what was presented in that passage, the thirst was quenched when I realized that the Lord was with me and still fulfilling His promises in His Word. He quenched that thirst by reminding me that my complete fulfillment and satisfaction in life was found only in Him. In our time of sweet fellowship, my Heavenly Father made my wilderness into a pool of water - He made a fountain in the midst of the valley of Baca (weeping) I was going through. Praise Him for His gentleness and compassion on this poor and needy soul - praise Him for providing that spiritual water when my soul was seeking it! Though I am poor and needy; yet the Lord thinketh upon me! (See Psalm 40:17)

God’s Power is Purpose-driven #2: The Individual – Unique Purpose

Last time, we saw the need of the three prerequisites for finding God's purpose. In order, they are Salvation, Baptism, and Membership within a local New Testament church.

Next we will consider the uniqueness of the purpose of an individual. Just as no two people are the same, God's purpose for every single person is different. This is a precious truth because no matter who we are, or what we’re able to accomplish, all of us have the capacity to be extremely useful to God. We just have to want to be.

Nay but, O man, who art thou that repliest against God? Shall the thing formed say to him that formed it, Why hast thou made me thus? - Romans 9:20 (KJV)

Most people reading this believe that God created man, so I'm not going to defend Creationism here. God created every one of us, and he created every one of us with certain abilities for accomplishing the purpose he has for us.

Why did God create Adam? The main reason is fellowship. The Bible tells us that God put Adam in the garden to “dress it and keep” it. We also find that Adam named the animals. God created Adam because he wanted someone to fellowship with and had work for Adam to do. He created you and me because he wants us to have a relationship with him and he's got work for us to do.

But now hath God set the members every one of them in the body, as it hath pleased him. – 1 Corinthians 12:18

This brings us to the issue of the different needs within the New Testament church, the entity through which God sends his power. It was really hard knowing what verse to use here because the entire chapter of 1 Corinthians 12 is loaded with verses on this.

What we find is that different people are good at different things. For example, you don’t want me to do the cooking for special events at our church. But let my wife in the kitchen at church, and you’ll get some of the best cooking there is. We have a few men in church who have the very necessary persnickety-ness to account for every penny. If we didn't have them, we’d be in a lot of trouble.

Not everybody in a church is a cook, usher, treasurer, can preach, teach, interpret foreign language, perform maintenance work, etc. God splits those roles up amongst all of us, and it's our job to figure out where we fit into the body, which is the New Testament church. It is very important to understand that.

How do I find God's purpose for me as an individual? Assuming we meet the prerequisites, let's consider:

• Visible purposes


• Invisible purposes


• Our ultimate purpose


• How do I find God's purpose for my life?

1. Visible purposes

And they were all amazed, and were in doubt, saying one to another, What meaneth this? - Acts 2:12 (KJV)

This portion comes to us from Acts chapter 2, when visitors to Jerusalem were amazed by God's power. Here, God's power was manifest in the form of every man understanding the preaching in his own language. When they perceived, or saw what was happening, it was obvious that God visibly sent his power to accomplish a purpose, the salvation of souls. God's power is available for visible purposes, as seen at Pentecost.

So what are some visible purposes that God may have for your life? You may be one that God has called to preach. Maybe you have some musical ability - God might have you sing or play an instrument within the church. If you have the ability to teach people, perhaps you're to be a teacher within the church. These are just a few examples of visible purposes.

¹¹And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;

¹²For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: - Ephesians 4:11,12 (KJV)

Those who have visible purposes must never forget one thing: preaching, teaching, or singing for self-glorification doesn't edify anybody. In other words, if your visible service doesn't edify (build up, help, encourage, strengthen others), it's a waste of everybody's time. God’s power is available to help you accomplish more than who you are, but not if your motives are for everyone to notice you.

Those with visible purposes are extra prone to envy/jealousy because every person alive naturally craves attention. If someone else can sing, and they are used instead of you, rather than hope they fall flat on their face, pray that God help them do a good job.

Old preachers knew this well: they didn't care who was doing the preaching; if a mighty demonstration of God's power happened, they were thankful for God's presence, regardless of who had the floor when God's power showed up.

The Fountain Of Living Waters

The Fountain Of Living Waters

Jeremiah 2:5-9 Thus saith the LORD, What iniquity have your fathers found in me, that they are gone far from me, and have walked after vanity, and are become vain? Neither said they, Where is the LORD that brought us up out of the land of Egypt, that led us through the wilderness, through a land of deserts and of pits, through a land of drought, and of the shadow of death, through a land that no man passed through, and where no man dwelt? And I brought you into a plentiful country, to eat the fruit thereof and the goodness thereof; but when ye entered, ye defiled my land, and made mine heritage an abomination. The priests said not, Where is the LORD? and they that handle the law knew me not: the pastors also transgressed against me, and the prophets prophesied by Baal, and walked after things that do not profit. Wherefore I will yet plead with you, saith the LORD, and with your children's children will I plead.

The Lord God led Israel out of Egypt, provided for them in the barren wilderness, and led them to the Promised Land - a land where He would provide all their needs for them and give them the victory, if they would only trust Him. Unfortunately, they walked after vanity; they turned to false Gods instead of the true and living God; they ran after the things of the world, instead of the things of God - the pleasures of sin for a season - things that could never truly satisfy their souls.

Jeremiah 2:11 Hath a nation changed their gods, which are yet no gods? but my people have changed their glory for that which doth not profit.

Jeremiah 2:13 For my people have committed two evils; they have forsaken me the fountain of living waters, and hewed them out cisterns, broken cisterns, that can hold no water.

Jeremiah 2:17-19 Hast thou not procured this unto thyself, in that thou hast forsaken the LORD thy God, when he led thee by the way? And now what hast thou to do in the way of Egypt, to drink the waters of Sihor? or what hast thou to do in the way of Assyria, to drink the waters of the river? Thine own wickedness shall correct thee, and thy backslidings shall reprove thee: know therefore and see that it is an evil thing and bitter, that thou hast forsaken the LORD thy God, and that my fear is not in thee, saith the Lord GOD of hosts.

It is sad, when they had a refreshing, ever-flowing, never-ceasing fountain of living waters right in front of them, they turned to broken cisterns (stagnant, stale, limited water) - but not only that - their cisterns were broken. Even the waters that the world offered failed, were not flowing, ran dry! The cisterns of this world could never bring peace, contentment, joy, satisfaction - it was all vanity of vanities - empty, worthless, of no profit. One day, the temporary pleasures of the world will prove to be only empty cisterns that leave you dry, barren, lifeless, and without hope.

Jeremiah 2:32 Can a maid forget her ornaments, or a bride her attire? yet my people have forgotten me days without number.

It is sad when even God's people turn from the fountain of living waters to the broken cisterns of the world - oh, the deceitfulness of sin! Too often we forget the Lord in our daily lives, and strive to find pleasure and fulfillment in anything other than in Jesus Christ. And the stagnant water these broken cisterns contain will always run dry and leave you unfulfilled. Contentment is found only in Jesus.

Jeremiah 17:13 O LORD, the hope of Israel, all that forsake thee shall be ashamed, and they that depart from me shall be written in the earth, because they have forsaken the LORD, the fountain of living waters.

Israel had forsaken their hope - their confident expectation for their future was not in the Lord. Too often Christians do the same - we let the world sidetrack us, and turn from the way. We live for the things of the world, rather than the things of God; we lay up our treasures here rather than in Heaven; we set our affections on the things of earth rather than the things above. It is no wonder that there is no water flowing in our deserts - we are barren, dry, languishing.

It is interesting that in Jeremiah 17:13, it says they that depart from me shall be written in the earth. Instead of being written in Heaven, too often the people of this world settle for living for only what they can see down here - they are written in the earth and they perish with it. But Jesus offers something better - He offers abundant life, life that can satisfy, and a name written in Heaven (in the Lamb's Book of Life).

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.

The Devil's plan for your life is to ruin it - but the Lord's plan for your life is to make it more abundant - in Him!

I Am

Lately, I have been preaching on the I Ams of Jesus from the Gospel of John.

Exodus 3:14 And God said unto Moses, I AM THAT I AM: and he said, Thus shalt thou say unto the children of Israel, I AM hath sent me unto you.

John 4:25-26 The woman saith unto him, I know that Messias cometh, which is called Christ: when he is come, he will tell us all things. Jesus saith unto her, I that speak unto thee am he.

John 8:58 Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Before Abraham was, I am.

I Am

I Am the Good Shepherd;
I gave My life for My sheep.
I Am the Resurrection and the Life -
Your comfort when you weep.

I Am the Light of the World
That shines upon you each day -
In this perilous journey of life,
I Am the only Way.

I Am the True Vine -
There is no real living apart from Me.
I Am the Door of Salvation;
Eternal life is knowing Me.

I Am the Messiah, who died
From sin to set you free;
For everything you are searching for -
I that speak to you Am He.

I Am the Bread of Life
On which your soul can feed.
I Am That I Am -
I Am all you will ever need.

I Am the Great Jehovah;
The LORD of Heaven, the earth, and the sea.
I Am Jesus Christ, the Saviour;
The LORD which is, which was, and will be.

I Am Jesus.

April 21st/2010
Jerry Bouey

Teen Workers needed for Metro Detroit Area Baptist Church

To all those who read this blog and live in Metro Detroit: our church is looking for a couple to come and work with our Teens. If you live in the area, or can relocate, and are looking for a place to minister and have a heart for teens/children, pray and consider our Teen Department. You can read more about the opening at

http://www.firstbaptistwestland.com/teens.htm

If you are interested, give me a call at 734-721-8195. If no one answers, leave a message and I will call you back as soon as possible.

God Bless,
Pastor Brad Gilbert

FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH OF WESTLAND
1033 S. Wildwood
Westland, MI 48186

www.firstbaptistwestland.com

Connect With IFB KJV on Facebook

The IFB KJV Blog Directory has their own page on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/pages/IFB-KJV-Blog-Directory/109112932446010. Please connect with us there!

My old KJV Bible got a new life!

About a week ago, I sent my old Bible off to get rebound. It has been my daily study companion, and has been with me through four surgeries of loved ones and a cross country move. Sending it off was one of the hardest things I've done. In a way, it contained years of my life. But, it was either fix it or retire it.

I wish I had taken "before" pictures. I did find some on the web similar to the condition mine was in, so I'll post those here for you. Mine is a Holman Giant Print KJV Reference Bible. It used to have a maroon cover similar to the one below. My pages were also splitting like you see below, and the back had come away from the spine.







Thanks to Ace Book Bindery, who took my old friend with the glued pages (WHY do Bible Publishers DO this?? A glued Bible does not last! ....The love of money.........) and sewed the pages in properly, gave me a new cover, 3 ribbon markers and printed my name on the cover.


This is so special to me. Two women that have been spiritual mentors to me have had their hand on this Bible. My Mom bought it for me years ago and I've cherished it. My Aunt rebound it for me as a gift, and I treasure it. It doesn't get any better than that! Thank you Lord for being so good to me.






Great are thy tender mercies, O LORD!! (Psalms 119:156a)

The Lord Is Like An Eagle

The Lord Is Like An Eagle

Deuteronomy 32:9-12 For the LORD'S portion is his people; Jacob is the lot of his inheritance. He found him in a desert land, and in the waste howling wilderness; he led him about, he instructed him, he kept him as the apple of his eye. As an eagle stirreth up her nest, fluttereth over her young, spreadeth abroad her wings, taketh them, beareth them on her wings: So the LORD alone did lead him, and there was no strange god with him.

1. The eagle's nest also has a great lesson for us.

The eagle ladens its nest with glass and sharp stones that she finds along the ground. After the nest is sufficiently uncomfortable - the eagle then finds a rabbit and such like and takes its soft downy pelt and lines the nest with it.

When the eaglets are hatched, they find themselves in a most comfortable domain. Their mother has insured they will spend their times as chicks in an environment so soft and pleasant.

Alas, the time comes when it is time for the eaglets to leave their nest. Rather than hold a long talk with her babies about the necessity to spread their wings, she does something rather cruel - to our standard. She pulls away the soft down of the rabbit and exposes her young to the jagged rocks and sharp glass. The eaglets, finding this most uncomfortable - decide it is time to leave the nest.

A pastor told me once how like the Lord this is. When it is time to move - He often makes circumstances unbearable. Some have been led to leave a church for this very reason. Perhaps it is a job situation, or a geographical change. The Lord may use oppression to make His children move.

A lesson in history shows us that Israel is still God's chosen nation. God desired that Israel would return home again so that she could once again become a nation in 1948. Unfortunately, the Jewish people had become comfortable in their adopted lands - many becoming quite wealthy through trade and craft. God rose up a Hitler, a demonic fiend, to cause His people to flee to their native land. God took away the feathery down of the nest and exposed His beloved people to the rocks.

2. The eagle takes her young to great heights in order to teach them to fly.

One-by-one the great eagle takes her young unto her wing and begins the arduous process of flight training. Higher and higher she soars to incredible heights and drops her baby. Downward, downward does the eaglet fall - helpless, without the knowledge or the skill to flap its wings - with greater and greater velocity it falls toward the earth.

Fortunately for the chick, an eagle can fly downward faster than her babies can fall. Before the baby can smash upon the rocks the mother eagle swoops under her babe and carries it back up to the heavens.

How often, Christian, have we felt like we were falling only to discover our great God often at the bottom of our fall. How often must we learn that it is at the bottom of ourselves - when we have no other course to turn to - that we find the Lord an ever present help. Yet, is this not the Lord's way to bring maturation to His child?

So, the eagle mounts again into still greater levels; then she will try again, and the little one is cast off into the immeasurable air, and it begins to understand the mechanics of flight. But so soon does it tire and again fall. The eagle again descends and receives its babe in its mighty iron pinions - claws of death - claws of life.

Thus the process is continued until the eaglet is trained to fly - the eaglet becomes strong - drops its inexperience - and becomes complete. The eaglet turned eagle, the worm turned butterfly - has been trained to swim in God's air, to fly in God's firmament, and to beat its strengthened wings in the face of the sun.

Again, is this not God's way with us? We so often fly poorly - if at all. We fall, but we find that the wing of the Most High is under us - and we rest upon it. So we fly a little and soon find our weakness, and before our testimony can crash on the rocks below and again we find that we rest in high-places in the midst of the danger.

We do not always fly as we ought and fear is often stronger than the little strength we think we have. We are scoffed at and jeered at by the wicked - but take heart, my companion in Christ - we are only still learning to fly.

Isaiah 40:28-31 Hast thou not known? hast thou not heard, that the everlasting God, the LORD, the Creator of the ends of the earth, fainteth not, neither is weary? there is no searching of his understanding. He giveth power to the faint; and to them that have no might he increaseth strength. Even the youths shall faint and be weary, and the young men shall utterly fall: But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.

It is so easy to stand on the ground and laugh at the young eaglets in their early flight training - but God's wings are under us. God will not forsake us - not a sparrow falleth to the ground without our Father.

(Used with permission from: Baptist Bible Believers Website)

Tried as gold

Matthew 7:25 --- And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock.

Scoop off the dross..................Pressures from above, pressures from below, and pressures from all around

Job 23:10 But he knoweth the way that I take: when he hath tried me, I shall come forth as gold.

A Letter To Mothers Of Prodigals

Chris commented on my ability to talk about my son being a prodigal- he said he wouldn't tell anyone if his son was. But I just told him that I only tell people I know will pray and can accept that we all are sinners in need of God's grace.

Yes, sometimes I feel ashamed of the things my son does, but I still love him and I am not ashamed to ask for prayer. I know that Christ died for him as well as me and there is no condemnation for him or me as the mother of a prodigal, because I am in Christ and He knows how hard I tried to bring him up unto the LORD.

So, dear hurting mother, don’t let shame get in the way of the LORD continuing a good work in your life, but learn to trust in Him and be comforted by Him during your trials. Continue your own walk in the faith. By so doing, you will not give the Evil One another advantage: you losing your faith and witness as well as your child.... however temporary or permanent that may turn out to be.

I don't mean to sound like I "have it all" or "have arrived"- the LORD knows, I don't- and I don't know it all either..I am just sharing some thoughts that have helped me in the difficult times in my life as the mother of a prodigal.

Also, just as a by the by... I don't run up to the cashier at Safeway and tell her my life story either. It's a personal matter best kept amongst Christian family who will pray.. so let’s pray for each other as we wait on the LORD to bring our prodigals back home!

[There is] therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. Romans 8:1 (posted with permission from Morning Cuppas with Glenys)

Who I Am

Who I Am

This study builds a little on the themes covered in these two studies: The Giver, Or The Gifts? and Blessed Contrasts In Scripture Please read these two studies for more Scripture references on some of these points below.

Many before the time of Christ were waiting for the Messianic kingdom to right the wrongs in this world (grievances, violence, wrong judgment, sin - Hab 1:3-4, 13; 2:2-3). They were looking for a time (ie. an event) when a King would rule over the earth and restore order (in fulfillment of the “vision”, ie. of the Old Testament prophecies) – Jesus directs us to Himself. Hebrews 10:38.

Many of the Jews in the time of Christ were looking for a political and social Messiah. Many rejected Christ because when He came the first time, He was not here to right all the political or social wrongs, but to deal with our sins. He did not come as “King” (though He is the King of kings and Lord of lords, and will come back one day to reign), but as Saviour.

Some followed Jesus for the wrong reason – because He did a miracle that provided for their needs. John 6:24-26.

They sought to make Jesus king – by force, seizing Him by violence! John 6:14-15.

When He was betrayed by Judas and surrounded by the armed guards in the Garden of Gethsemane, He refused to fight back, but gave Himself up to them. John 18:3-9, 12.

When speaking to Pilate, He stated His kingdom was not yet of this world; therefore His followers would not fight back with physical weapons. John 18:33-36.

40 days after Jesus arose, just before He ascended to Heaven, His disciples asked Him a question about His coming kingdom: Acts 1:6-7. Jesus changed their focus, then the angels pointed to His return, not just to His kingdom – ie. pointed to Him. Verses 9-11.

The Samaritan woman was waiting for the Messiah to reveal all things. Jesus told her, “I Am the Messiah.” John 4:25-26.

Martha was waiting for a coming day, an event (ie. the future day of resurrection) - Jesus redirected her to a person, Himself. I Am the Resurrection and the Life. John 11:23-26.

The end of all arguments – whatever is going on in the world or in the lives of His people, God declares:
I am the LORD (or the Lord GOD - 164 times)
I am God (9 times)
I Am, and there is no other god (or saviour) beside Me (Deut 4:35, 39; 1 Sam 2:2; 2 Sam 7:22; 1 Kings 8:60; 1 Chron 17:20; Is 43:10-12; 44:6-8; 45:5-6, 18, 21-22; 46:9; Hosea 13:4; Joel 2:27)

Many in the world are running around looking for each of these things – even God’s people – but what we need more than provision, more than something to happen – what we need is Jesus Himself!

When we need (spiritual) light - He is our Light. He is Light. Psalm 27:1; 1 John 1:5.
When in need of strength - He is our strength. Psalm 28:7.
When we need wisdom - He is our wisdom. 1 Corinthians 1:30.
When we need understanding - He is understanding. Proverbs 8:14.
When we need mercy and grace - He is merciful and gracious; that is His name (in the Bible, a name represents who someone is, their character). Exodus 33:19; 34:5-7.
When we need peace with God, peace of mind, peace with man - He is our peace. Ephesians 2:14.
When we are hopeless - He is our hope. 1 Timothy 1:1.
When we have no purpose or reason for living - He is our life. Colossians 3:4.
When we are scrambling, seeking the truth - the truth is in Jesus. He is the Truth. Ephesians 4:21; John 14:6.
When we are desperately seeking for someone to love us, He not only provides love - He is Love. 1 John 4:8, 16.
When we are looking for safety, security, shelter from the storms of life – He is our shield. Genesis 17:1.
When we are looking for something lasting in life, something to carry on from generation to generation – He is our inheritance. Numbers 18:20.
When we are looking for a way to be right with God, not only does the Lord provide righteousness - He is our righteousness. Jeremiah 23:6.
When looking for salvation, Jesus not only provides salvation – He is our salvation. Psalm 35:3.
Not only does Jesus save – He is our Saviour, and it is to be Him we are looking for – not just some future day or some kingdom, some future event – Jesus Himself! Titus 2:13; 2 Timothy 4:8.

What is our focus? Even as believers, are we seeking the Lord Jesus Christ for what He can do for us (and yes, we should be seeking Him for every need we have) – OR for who He is? Seeking for something we need, for something to happen - OR for Jesus Himself?

May 9th/2010
Jerry Bouey

P.S. This is part of the series I have been preaching at the Gospel Mission on the I Ams of Jesus, and some of the thoughts that came out of it. I think the message was received pretty well today. It certainly gave some food for thought, and was a blessing to study out and preach. I hope it is also a blessing to you.

How to Treat Worldly Teenagers

Found Online
This is an excellent article by John Doss, Assistant Pastor of Shenandoah Bible Baptist Church, with the main points being:
1. Don’t expect unspiritual people to understand spiritual matters.
2. Don’t be afraid to take a stand for what is right when around worldly people.
3. Don’t try to change them, and don’t let them change you.
4. If they are rude to you, make sure you are not rude to them.
5. They need to see and not hear what a good Christian you have become.
6. You must keep a good attitude.

Read it all here: http://www.oldpathsjournal.com/ViewArticle.aspx?id=295&pageid=463

How Dead is Dead?

How dead is dead? I have never known death to have shades or tones, it's either yes or no. On or off, black or white. Alive or dead, it's as simple as that.

I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me. - Gal. 2:20

In this verse we find that just as Christ died on the cross, as was the will of His Father in heaven, Paul requires a crucifixion of himself, which is also the will of the Father in heaven. If it was necessary for Paul, it's necessary for you and me. Dead to self was a popular phrase in our church back in the 90's, and its premise is that an individual is completely destitute of any self-motivated action. Based on the examples found in scripture, Christians clearly need to be dead to self. But are we? There are 3 ways we as Christians need to be dead to self:

1. Dead enough - to not be Offended


2. Dead enough - to not be Afraid


3. Dead enough - to not be Busybodies

1. Dead enough - to not be Offended

If people have to walk on eggshells around you, you've still got way too much kick left in you. If you find fault with every little thing that the preacher says, or get bothered at the sight of a brother, I got news for you: YOU'RE NOT DEAD ENOUGH.

Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. - Philippians 2:3

There is something missing from this verse: a qualifier. I hear people all the time (and I've said it myself) say, "if they weren't the way they were, I wouldn't be the way I am." Christ said:

By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another. - John 13:35

Once again, where's the "within reason" clause? It's not there. Christ left it out on purpose, because by virtue of putting two humans in the same vicinity, he knew full well that there are going to be disagreements. And guess what - Christ wants us to let it go. Be dead enough to not be offended.

2. Dead enough - to not be Afraid

This one has really helped me as a singer who suffers from stage fright. If you're dead to self, you can't be embarassed. What does that mean? It means preach and sing your heart out with no inhibitions and don't care what anyone thinks. If they have a problem with you doing the best you can for God, they can lecture him over it. I'm dead, why do I care?

7And Moses called unto Joshua, and said unto him in the sight of all Israel, Be strong and of a good courage: for thou must go with this people unto the land which the LORD hath sworn unto their fathers to give them; and thou shalt cause them to inherit it.

8And the LORD, he it is that doth go before thee; he will be with thee, he will not fail thee, neither forsake thee: fear not, neither be dismayed. - Deuternomy 31:7,8

Moses himself knew what this meant, because he had the same issue - God called on him to lead Israel from Egypt, and he knew he was incapable. Fear of failure is a very human concern, and God knows that about us. That's why we find God telling his servants over and over in the Bible to "Fear not". I've never been at a wake where the person in the casket tried to cover himself because he's ashamed of being dead.

Now therefore send, and gather to me all Israel unto mount Carmel, and the prophets of Baal four hundred and fifty, and the prophets of the groves four hundred, which eat at Jezebel's table. - 1 Kings 18:19

Here we find Elijah calling 450 heretics to a meeting. Hold on - Elijah vs. 450 madmen. Yep - and he called the meeting at Mount Carmel because God told him to. Why would anyone stand against insurmountable odds, unless they knew they were going to win?

Elijah had no fear of the outcome atop Mt. Carmel, because he had killed that urge inside himself to worry if God could. He trusted his well-being and the outcome to God. His life wasn't dear to him at that time.

The next chapter, fear over Jezebel's threats caused the life to rush back into him, which gave him attitude problems. But like Elijah vs. 450 prophets of Baal, we need to be too dead to be afraid.

3. Dead enough - to not be a Busybody

There is a huge difference between being interested in the well-being of the brethren and being investigative reporters on the lives of the brethren. I know of a place in scripture where no gossip took place:

Again he said unto me, Prophesy upon these bones, and say unto them, O ye dry bones, hear the word of the LORD. - Ezekiel 37:4

Hidden Treasures From Proverbs 2

Hidden Treasures From Proverbs 2

My best friend since I got saved is a man named James Strong. I met him about two or three years after I came to know the Lord Jesus Christ. He really helped me find verses in the Bible - to find those passages where I could just remember some of the words but not the references, gave me oodles and oodles of verses to look up on any subject I could think of. Then later, he even taught me how to find the definitions for each word in my King James Bible. That was such a help! In fact, to this day, he has been my most consulted Bible resource - not the man himself, but a book he put together: Strong's Exhaustive Concordance. Not only can you use it to look up any word in the Bible, find out EVERY place that word is used, but you can also find the basic definitions for every word in the underlying Hebrew and Greek text and the range of meaning when translated into English. To this day, I can honestly say his concordance (whether in book format or as part of a Bible program) has been THE most helpful resource I have ever come across for studying God's Word.

Just me, my Bible, and my Strong's - a friendship that has lasted for years and promises to endure for as long as I am sojourning down here. Here are some neat word studies from Proverbs chapter 2.

Proverbs 2:1 My son, if thou wilt receive my words, and hide my commandments with thee;

The word hide here is Strong's #6845, which means: to hide (by covering over); by implication, to hoard or reserve; figuratively to deny; specifically (favorably) to protect, (unfavorably) to lurk.

Solomon's advice to all believers is to hide God's Word in our hearts - to hoard it and protect it. God's Word is a valuable treasure!

2 So that thou incline thine ear unto wisdom, and apply thine heart to understanding;

Incline means: to prick up the ears, i.e. hearken. Are you paying attention when you hear or read God's Word? Are your ears pricked up, ready to glean the wisdom God has for you? It is not enough to know knowledge and information; wisdom is the right use of knowledge. Basically, it would be knowing how a particular truth or Biblical principle applies to a specific situation. When the Lord gives you understanding of His Word, do you heed it, do you apply it to your life?

3 Yea, if thou criest after knowledge, and liftest up thy voice for understanding;

Criest has the idea of accosting a person met; to call out to. When you pass someone in the street and you recognize them, you turn to call out after them and seek to get their attention, lifting up your voice so you could be heard over the crowd. Voice means: to call aloud. You don't keep silent - you call out until they hear you. Is that your attitude towards knowledge and understanding from God's Word? Do you call out to the Lord until He answers you by giving you the understanding of what you are reading?

4 If thou seekest her as silver, and searchest for her as for hid treasures;

Seekest: to search out (by any method, specifically in worship or prayer); by implication, to strive after. Do you prayerfully read the Word of God, worshipping the Author as you hear Him speak to you? Do you strive after His Word and value it as you would silver? Hid treasures: a secret storehouse; hence, a secreted valuable (buried). Did you get that? Hidden treasures! The Bible is chock full of hidden treasures waiting to be found, precious stones waiting to be mined out and stored in your heart. (Hm, that reminds me of Matthew 13:52 and my comments on it last week: Gleanings From God's Word.) Do you "search the Scriptures" for this hidden treasure?

5-6 Then shalt thou understand the fear of the LORD, and find the knowledge of God. For the LORD giveth wisdom: out of his mouth cometh knowledge and understanding.

If you value the Word of God and search it diligently to learn what the Lord would teach you through His Spirit, THEN you will understand the fear of the Lord (reverence and awe toward Him), THEN you will find the knowledge of God, THEN the Word of God will open up to you and His wisdom and knowledge will be yours to glean and apply.

7 He layeth up sound wisdom for the righteous: he is a buckler to them that walk uprightly.

Layeth up - Strong's #6845 again. The Lord has stored up sound wisdom for you in His Word, waiting for you to seek and search for it. This wisdom is for the righteous - those who are saved, who have trusted in the Lord Jesus Christ alone for salvation. Also notice how the word layeth is in the present tense ("eth" ending); that means that He continually lays up sound wisdom for you! It is ALWAYS there for the taking (all you need to do is ask! See James 1:5). God is a buckler - a shield - to them that walk uprightly. Not only do you need to be saved, but you need to be walking according to His Word and in right fellowship with Him in order to glean this wisdom and have the Lord Himself as your shield.

8 He keepeth the paths of judgment, and preserveth the way of his saints.

Keepeth: Strong's #5341, to guard, in a good sense (to protect, maintain, obey, etc.). Paths: Strong's #734, a well-trodden road (literally or figuratively). Preserveth: Strong's #8104, properly, to hedge about (as with thorns), i.e. guard; generally, to protect, attend to, etc. Way: a road (as trodden); figuratively, a course of life or mode of action. When you walk in the fear of the Lord (see 1:7), He continually guards your paths, He continually protects you as you travel the well-trodden road He has called you on. The Lord continually has His hedge of protection around the child of God (saint) that is seeking the Word of God and doing the will of God. Let's stay on His paths! (See Isaiah 35:8)

9 Then shalt thou understand righteousness, and judgment, and equity; yea, every good path.

Path: #4570, a track (literally or figuratively). When you walk in the light of God's Word and in the fear of the Lord, you will find out the good paths He would have you take. (See also Romans 12:1-2, that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.)

10-11 When wisdom entereth into thine heart, and knowledge is pleasant unto thy soul; Discretion shall preserve thee, understanding shall keep thee:

When wisdom abides in your heart, and knowledge is pleasant (acceptable and sweet) to your soul, not only will God Himself keep and preserve you (verse 8), but His Word hidden in your heart will also preserve (#8104) and keep (#5341) you.

What will God's Word keep you from? There are two things specifically mentioned in this chapter - notice how each of the following sections begin the same way:

12-15 To deliver thee from the way of the evil man, from the man that speaketh froward things; Who leave the paths (#734) of uprightness, to walk in the ways of darkness; Who rejoice to do evil, and delight in the frowardness of the wicked; Whose ways are crooked, and they froward in their paths (#4570):

Deliver: to snatch away. God and His Word will snatch you away from the way (#1870) of the evil man. This is the same word as used in verse 8. God will keep the way of His saints - those whose course of life or mode of action is to do righteousness, and protect you from the way of evil men - those whose course of life or mode of action is perverseness and wickedness. When you are determined to stay on God's paths, He will keep you from the path of the wicked, who walk in darkness.

Darkness: the dark; hence (literally) darkness; figuratively, misery, destruction, death, ignorance, sorrow, wickedness. Proverbs 4:18-19 But the path of the just is as the shining light, that shineth more and more unto the perfect day. The way of the wicked is as darkness: they know not at what they stumble. What a contrast!

Shamgar: An Israeili Judge

He started where he was. And, according to Deborah, it wasn't a good time to be in Israel: In the days of Shamgar the son of Anath, in the days of Jael, the highways were unoccupied, and the travellers walked through byways. The inhabitants of the villages ceased, they ceased in Israel, until that I Deborah arose, that I arose a mother in Israel. They chose new gods; then was war in the gates: was there a shield or spear seen among forty thousand in Israel? (Judges 5:6-8 KJV)

He used what he had. Judges 3:31 says "And after him was Shamgar the son of Anath, which slew of the Philistines six hundred men with an ox goad: and he also delivered Israel." He didn't wait for an army, a battle nor did he look for a crown. He took the nearby ox goad went to work.

He did what God set him to do. Shamgar is listed among the Judges of Israel. "He also delivered Israel." God honored Shamgar because he was faithful.

Unlike Deborah, Gideon or Samson, Shamgar's story isn't told in Judges. Doesn't matter, does it? Shamgar started where he was, used what he had and did what God set him to do!

Can we do less?

Devotions on Prayer

KJV Devos has been recently posting two series of devotionals on prayer, which I am going to link to here, to go back and review them from time to time.

Paul Chappell is teaching on prayer at Daily in the Word:
Prayer is not...
Prayer is...
How to Pray-Part 1

KJV Devos is going through Andrew Murray's book, "With Christ in the School of Prayer":
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2
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5
6
7
8
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Latest from BaptistQuips.Blogspot

"Those that take the pathway of reason around the mountain of trials will never find the omnipotent resources of God waiting to provide them the victory they need to experience before their lives will ever be enabled to bring God glory and bear eternal fruit." - Lance Ketchum

Psalm 131 "It is one of the shortest Psalms to read, but one of the longest to learn." - C.H. Spurgeon

"Why do you need a voice when there is a verse? Why do you need a calling when it's a command?" - Richard Famador

"My body I commit to the dust, relying on the merits of Jesus Christ for the pardon of my sins." - Samuel Adams

"It is impossible to rightly govern the world without God and the Bible." - George Washington

I don’t have enough FAITH to believe in evolution!

Don't pray for a light load, pray for a strong back.

Stop trying to figure God out, and start trying to figure Him in!

We are saved by faith alone, but saving faith is never alone.

"It is impossible to enslave mentally or socially a Bible-reading people. The principles of the Bible are the groundwork of human freedom." - H. Greeley

"You are as much serving God in looking after your own children, and training them up in God's fear, and minding the house, and making your household a church for God, as you would be if you had been called to lead an army to battle for the Lord of hosts." - C.H. Spurgeon

http://baptistquips.blogspot.com/

Proverb a Day in May - May 3rd/Chapter 3

We are on day 3, chapter 3 today of the Book of Proverbs. Give the chapter a read, then go to www.brobrad.blogspot.com and leave us your thoughts and questions because, "Iron Sharpeneth Iron."

Proverb a Day in May - day 1/chapter 1

We have started "A Proverb a Day in May." If you are unfamiliar with it, what we are doing is reading a chapter a day from Proverbs in the month of May (May 1st, read chapter 1; May 2nd, read chapter 2; etc.) Then, everyone is encouraged to read that day's thought, and tell us how the Lord spoke to you in that chapter, what you learned, or any question you may have had about what you read. Just go to http://www.brobrad.blogspot.com/ to participate.

Just added four more IFB KJV Blogs

Thanks for joining and reading along!