The Sovereignty of God Maintains the Holy Bible

While there may be some discrepancies between copies and versions of the Holy Bible today, we have no business claiming it has errors, or that any parts are not inspired by God. We do have very old copies in original Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek texts, but God is the only One who has true knowledge of the contents of the originals. That does not make our copies erroneous, or not part of inspired Scripture, for God's sovereignty maintains the accuracy of the Holy Bible.

Almighty GOD is not living within our time. Time was created for us.

He sees the end from the beginning (Isaiah 46:9-10). God is talking to Adam in the Garden of Eden, even as He is accepting our worship on the new earth. He is Eternal. Time does not exist in God's realm of eternal being. GOD is the I AM.

God is instructing Moses to write the 1st five books of the Bible. He is overseeing Jeremiah write his books. Matthew, Mark, Luke & John are writing the gospels per God's guiding inspiration even as you sit and read the Holy Bible at your table in this instant. Pick a writer of one of the 66 books of the Bible and God by His infinite wisdom is having it penned even as you think on it.

Hold your fingers together as tight as possible, until they hurt. The space between your fingers is still longer than your lifespan.

God indwells His people yesterday, today and forever. (John 14, Ephesians 1:13,14, Galatians 3). He indwells believers before us and He will indwell believers after us. (even if we are raptured today)
In every Bible study, or Biblical teaching/preaching, the eternal existing God is actually watching over the person writing the book we are reading at the same instance.

I am not talking multiple dimensions, I am talking about God's BEING. God IS the I AM.

WOW! WE SERVE AN AWSOME GOD!!!

The Bible that the world has today, no matter what version, or language is being preserved by God Himself, outside of time. This is the Holy Bible of the Christian, not the religious books of other world beliefs.

If any parts of the Bible could be in error, in any language or translation, then don't you think Almighty God is able to correct His word, which He is overseeing the writings of even now?

We don't have the originals, but God does.

If today's Bible study guides are exalted over the Holy Bible, that's saying to God the writers of the study guides know more about the Bible than He does.

Consider the danger of your own error attempting to correct God.

Considering that the Author of the Bible is Omnipotent, Omniscient, Omnipresent God, if you decide that you can identify parts of the Holy Bible that are in error, consider these two scenarios:

#1

For some spectacular reason, you can move through the dimensions of Time and Space.

Today, a Christian brother has just watched a group of ISIS militants rape and murder his wife. In the next hour he will be beheaded for his faith in Christ. But he is steadfastly remembering the verses he has memorized from his Bible as he faces this horrible death. (it doesn't matter what language or translation the Bible is written in, it's a Holy Bible, maintained by Sovereign God)

Suddenly, you pop into his presence and announce, "My Bible study guide says that certain parts of certain translations and versions of the Bible are wrong and are not inspired by God because we have discovered they are not in the 'Best Manuscripts". We have decided that they are in error and we no longer teach them as being the inspired words of God."

And you disappear as suddenly as you arrive, leaving this brother alone wondering if the verses he has memorized are the parts that are not Inspired by God.

#2

Still jumping through Time and Space, you travel back to a cold, dark cell in the German Concentration Camp Ravensbruek, where two young women are huddled together with a Bible open between them. One is reading scripture to her dying sister. (it doesn't matter what language or translation the Bible is written in, it's a Holy Bible, maintained by Sovereign God)

Suddenly, you pop into their cell, point to their Bible and say, "In the future, we learn that certain parts of certain translations and versions of the Bible are wrong and are not inspired by God because we have discovered they are not in the 'Best Manuscripts". So we have decided that they are in error and we no longer teach them as being the inspired words of God."

And just as suddenly, you disappear from their sight, leaving Corrie Ten Boom and her sister, Betsie, holding worthless scraps of paper.

What has your knowledge just done to these people who have no access to whatever Bible study guide you may have read. Where is your proof that your Bible study guide is true and their Bible's are wrong? Your so-called knowledge gained form your study guides is of no advantage.

Only God has the knowledge to maintain His word as without error and all Scripture is inspired by God. (2 Timothy 3:16)

"Knowing this first, that no prophecy of
Scripture is of any private interpretation,

for prophecy never came by the will of man,
but holy men of God spoke as they

were moved by the Holy Spirit"
2 Peter 1:20,21.

But of Bible Studies and study guides, the bookshelves are breaking from the strain. Be very careful of what you read outside of the Bible itself, for God has not breathed the words of Bible Study Guides, only the words of the Holy Bible. (John 17:17, 2 Timothy 3:16. 2 Peter 1:20, 21, Rev. 22:18,19, Is. 55:10,11, Eccl. 12:11.12,13,14.)

If something you read has an argument pointing to an error, stop and hold up any version of the Bible and say to the One who sits on the throne in Heaven, "Holy Omnipotent, Omnipresent, Omniscient GOD, because of this or that I've read about Your word, I know for certain that this text of this Bible is in error and is not inspired by You. You, Almighty God must have made a mistake putting this into this version of Your Bible, because this man, or this woman said so. So, now You, God are corrected by my knowledge."

Aren't you putting a lot of confidence in the idea the authors of study guides know more than God knows about His word?

Then you are telling God He is not Omnipotent, Omniscient, Omnipresent God.

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Salvation Through The Word Of God

The awesomeness of God's Holy Bible is that if anyone wants to know God and finds a Bible, they can read it and come to know God and His free salvation. They don't need to study any other books along side the Bible to lead them to God.

Sometimes too many study helps can get us off track from the simplicity of the Bible. And that can be very, very dangerous. We can get into the most ridiculous arguments over which version is right, but it is the Word of God, not our interpreta...tions of it that save people.

Paul warns, through Timothy, "Remind them of these things charging them before the Lord not to strive about words to no profit, to the ruin of the hearers" 2 Tim 2:14
and to Titus Paul wrote,"But avoid foolish disputes, genealogies, contentions, and strivings about the law; for they are unprofitable and useless" 3:9.

I've read and heard testimonies of people who have found only a page, or a scrap of the Bible, even a Bible tract, that have been saved through the power and love of God.

If you are a born-again Christian, saved by the grace of God, don't ever, ever, ever say anything about the Holy Bible other than what it says in 2 Timothy 3:16, 

"All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work"

"For faith comes by hearing and hearing by the word of God" Romans 10:17.

"For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piecing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart" Hebrews 4:12.

"My brethren, let not many of you become teachers, knowing that we shall receive a stricter judgement" James 3:1.(Jesus prayed to God the Father) "Sanctify them by Your truth. Your word is truth" John 17:17.

Don't ever say any part of whatever version of the Holy Bible you prefer is not able to save, for it is the power of God to save. Your thoughts for or against which Scripture is used by God don't have the smallest iota one way or the other. If the words are between the cover of the Holy Bible, God can use it for His glory! And God preserves His word for that very purpose.

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Brother Against Brother: Short Fiction

Reassuring himself the Enfield was loaded; Seth pointed it at the Confederate. The man remained calm, propped against the remains of the stonewall.

“How old are you, Son?”

“What?”

“You ain’t old enough for fightin’, Son. You should be in school, or fetchin’ for your mother.”

“You shut up!” He tried to be threatening but failed. He was just a scared kid in a war that was supposed to be over.

A Private in Colonel Joshua Chamberlain’s Twentieth Maine Infantry, who were occupying this hill, miles from the main battle, Seth was still amid the horrors. The moans and screams of the wounded and dying added to his mental anguish. Somehow, when they swung down the side of the mound named Little Round Top, he had separated from the main group and stumbled into this depression, and away from the major shooting.

Falling into the hole, Seth landed on a body, which grunted and moved. Terrified, he scrambled around for identity, discovering the powdered blackened face of one of General Hood’s Texans, the very army they were killing. The Texan was unarmed, his Springfield broken beside him and his arm too mangled for bayonet use. Triumphantly, Seth had ‘captured’ an enemy single-handed. This glory soon faded, as he realized he was as trapped as the other was. Where could he go? He didn’t know if they had succeeded.

"Son, you ain’t fighin’ for slavery any more than I am.”

“Ain’t you?”

“Nope,” the Texan replied. “I’m a Texas soldier. That I’m in the Confederate army is just an odd detail.”

“But this is about slavery, ain’t it?” 

The man chuckled. “This war is about Government and politics, neither of which you or I care one whit about.” The Texan waved his good hand. “You let me palaver. You’ve probably heard speeches ‘bout the horrors of slavery, most not even half-told of the evils. There's a man in Washington that made some noise about the evil and it made a large part of this country a bit worried 'bout their rights as slave owners. I don’t own slaves, never have, never will. I’m in this ‘cause Texas said we’d fight and I’m Texas. As for the Cause, the Good Lord above will abolish slavery. He hates it and He won’t allow it, no matter what some may think. I can't agree havin' a war over the trouble is the best way to fix it, but that's the way it's come about. You and me are just a part of something a whole lot bigger." he chuckled. "hate to admit it, but it's even bigger than Texas."

Shifting slightly made his coat open, revealing his bloody chest. A grimace twisted his dirty face. he asked Seth, “Ya got any water?”

Seth tossed his canteen. “You said the Good Lord. You mean Jesus?”

“Born again into Jesus Christ twenty three years ago. Bet I was older’n you are now. How old are you, Son?”

“Sixteen.”

The Texan smiled. “Yup. Was seventeen when I accepted Jesus’ salvation. Have you, Son?”

Seth swallowed hard. “Yes, Sir. Three years now.” In fear, he lifted his rifle as the Texan reached under his coat. For a pistol?

“Whoa, Son, just getting’ my Prayer Book.” He held up a small ragged book bound together with twine. “A’right if I show you somethin’?” The Texan shifted and then settled back. “No need to keep pointin’ that gun. I surrender. I ain’t gonna fight no more ag’in ya.” He settled down next to the boy. “Do you know that right here, in the second letter to Timothy; we have the power to end all wars?”

The sour-sweet smell of the dark, thick, of the Texan's congealed blood rose in his nostrils. Swallowing bile, Seth leaned over and read from the Texan’s Bible. ‘All Scripture is given by the inspiration of God and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works."

He smiled, although through the blood, grime and black powder soot the action made him seem more a ghoul than a man. There was no threat to Seth from the wounded man as he talked.

“An old man named Paul wrote that to a young soldier for Christ. And I’m sharing it with you, ‘cause there’s a place for enemies and there’s a place for killin’, but there’s a place in the hearts of all men for the truth of God. That, Son, if every man believes it, would end all wars. If only all people would turn to God, wars would cease.”

Seth never saw the rock. Lights burst in his head. Aware through a fog, the gun taken from his hands, he lay stunned and helpless.

“Forgive me, Son.”

Incredibly, he saw the sadness in the face of his enemy.

The Texan gazed at him a moment longer before turning to walk into the bullet shattered forest.

Seth thought, ‘Lord Jesus, that man’s not my enemy, he’s my brother.’

The End

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The One & Only Jesus Christ

It is so sad to find as you're talking to someone about Jesus and they begin to speak about the Jesus they worship and you soon learn he isn't the same as the Jesus, the Son of God, written of throughout the Bible.

How awful that they are being lied to by someone who is teaching them another Jesus and is taking them in the wrong direction from the Biblical truth of an afterlife in heaven & hell and eternal salvation & damnation.

And these people are so deceived because the n...ame of Jesus is spoken from the pulpit and so they believe it is the right name.

There are soooo many Scriptures that speak against these false teachers, it is astonishing how these people can be so blind and lost!

here is a list of verses warning to watch out for and how to identify false teachers. Also in this this list are verses that explain what is going to happen to false teachers when they meet the God they refuse to accept, and that they continue to slander.

Matt 7:21-23, Acts 20:28-30, Romans 1:18- 25, 2 Cor 11:3-4, Gal 1:8,9, 3:1-5, 5:7-12, Col 2:4-10, & 16-19, 1 Tim 1:5-7, & 4:1-3, & 6:20,21, 2 Tim 2:14-17, & 3:5, & 4: 1-4, Titus 3: 9-11, Heb 10:23-31, James 1:21-24, & 3:1, 2 Peter 1:16-2:3, & 2:12-22, 1 John 4: 1-3, 2 John 7-11, 3 John 9-10, Jude 4 & 12, Rev 22:18,19.

The Bible teaches a Holy Triune God, One in Three Persons, Co-Equal, Yet One. (Only a Born Again believer can understand this fact without total confusion. It is supernaturally known.

"Jesus answered and said to him, "Most assuredly, I say to you, unless a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God" John 3:3.

"For what man knows the things of a man except the spirit of the man which is in him? Even so no one knows the things of God except the Spirit of God. Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, that we might know the things that have been freely given to us by God. These things we also speak, not in words which men's wisdom teaches but which the Holy Spirit teaches, comparing spiritual things with spiritual. But the natural man does not receive the things of the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him; nor can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned" 1 Corinthians 2:11-14.

The Bible teaches the truly is Eternal Salvation through Jesus Christ, the Son of God, and no other.

"Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved" 4:12.

The Bible is a complete book of 66 books. Born again Christians are to be taught from the entire book to be like Jesus was in the world. The Holy Spirit living in each believer empowers us to be such people for Jesus.

"But you shall receive power when they Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria and to the end of the earth" Acts 1:8.

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The Distraction of the Beauty of Nature

This male Yellow-Shafted Northern Flicker (Woodpecker)

was on our lawn this morning for a few hours, pecking at the ground for insects.

You know how when you set your mind to read the Bible and pray earnestly, it is then that distractions suddenly appear. Even though the objects of the distractions may be beautiful in their own right, they are evil in the fact they steal you from your time with God.

This bird appeared just at that time in my Bible reading and prayers. I did stop my prayers to take several photos, and had to force myself to ignore him after that so as to spend the time talking to the Creator instead of admiring His creation.

A few verses came to mind as I ignored the bird.

"And as he sowed, some seed fell by the wayside; and the birds came and devoured them: Matthew 13:4.

(the mustard seed) which indeed is the least of all the seeds; but when it is grown it is greater than the herbs and becomes a tree, so that the birds of the air come and nest in its branches"

Matthew 13:32.

"Professing to be wise, they became fool, and changed the glory of the incorruptible God into an image like corruptible man---and birds and four-footed animals and creeping things"

Romans 1:22,23.

Even as beautiful as many birds are, in these verses, God, their Creator, says they are sometimes the means of Satan to take the truth of God from those seeking hope of salvation.

A bird can be a sore distraction and so easily steal the truth and glory of God away from a believer. How the more so from the hungry soul of a non-believer, seeking the truth and glory of God the Creator.

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Jesus- God Our Servant

"For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve,

and to give His life a ransom for many" Mark 10:45.

Some of the things Jesus did:

He listened. He taught.
He wept with and for people.
He fed people. He led people. He walked with people. He ate with people.
He attended parties.
He helped people. He healed.
He read. He told the truth to everyone.
He played with children. He prayed for people. He counseled.
He gave people what really they wanted. He told people how to do things.
He gave examples. He gave Himself as an example.
He told stories. He cooked meals. He was willing to go anywhere.
He observed God’s laws and man’s laws, (when they didn’t contradict.) He was obedient to God the Father.
He loved people, even His enemies.
He sang songs.
He traveled with little expense. He was honest and just in all His dealings.
He forgave.
He touched the untouchable. He approached the unapproachable.
He was kind.
He helped Fathers and Mothers. He spoke with both men and with women.
He accepted poor, rich, soldiers, businessmen and women, housewives, teachers, bankers, laborers, lawyers, government officials, religious and non-religious, sinners and self-righteous.

 And some things Jesus didn't do:

He never demanded service.
He never hurt people, not even His enemies.
He never manipulated anyone.
He never coerced anyone.
He never forced anyone to do or not do anything.
He didn’t gossip.
He didn’t hate anyone for deserting Him.
He never took revenge for an insult.
He never played tricks.
He never insulted anyone.

Christians have something in Jesus that the world religions cannot comprehend. Even as they search for what we have, they deny that we have found it in Jesus. Man-made religions and man-created gods make their followers obey rules as means of perfection.

The God who gave His life for the sins of the world not only asks us to obey, He provides the power to obey.

"Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself

unless it abides in the vine, neither can you unless you abide in Me.

I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me and I in him,

bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing.” John 15:4 & 5.

• As a Man, Jesus was the best friend we could ever have.
• As Lord, Jesus deserves our obedience. 
• As our teacher, Jesus showed us how we ought to act and work.

As God, Jesus could have shown all His power and brought Himself the glory that is due Him. Instead of God crushing the rebellion of mankind in Adam, Jesus, the Savior, made this statement,

“If you love Me, keep My commandments" John 14:15

 Jesus gave us the examples; let us follow Him. 

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Notes From the Gospel of Luke

Here are a few notes I've written in the margins of my Bible while reading the Gospel of Luke. I've also added further explanations for clarification.

Margin Notes From the Gospel of Luke

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"and this woman was a widow of about eighty-four years, who did not depart from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day" Luke 2:37.

Margin Note: Anna was not a bitter old woman but a woman of faith.

Expanded: What a remarkable woman--God honored Anna by mentioning her faith in His Bible.

*+*

"For whoever is ashamed of Me and My words, of him the Son of Man will be ashamed when He comes in His own glory, and in His Father's, and of the holy angels" 9:26.

Margin Note: Those who reject Jesus' salvation. --the unbelievers-- & cross reference: Hebrews 10:29-31.

Expanded: I have often seen this verse used as a threat on a few Social Media sites, mostly against Christians, that to prove you are not ashamed of Jesus you must Like/Share/Repost the meme. Which is absolutely silly.
     In reality, those in trouble with for being ashamed are unbelievers. It is speaking to those who reject Jesus as God and Savior. They will not be accepted by Jesus or the Father, and even the angels Jesus brings with Him, which are merely the servants of God.
     To be an embarrassment to God's lowly household servants is something of which to be ashamed!

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"And He was casting out a demon,... 11:14

No margin note but I do have this comment:
     This made me smile when I read it. It just struck me as so simple a thing for God to do and yet it was important for the Holy Spirit to record it in the Bible for us to understand the control that God has over the evil forces in this world.

*+*

"He also spoke this parable: 'A certain man had a fig tree planted in his vineyard, and he came seeking fruit on it and found none' 13:6.

Margin note: Longsuffering/Patience & cross reference 2 Peter 3:9

Expanded: Luke 13:6-9 is the full parable of the fruitless fig tree and is a great picture of God's longsuffering toward us. His grace is immeasurable.

*+*

"therefore if you have not been faithful in the unrighteous mammon, who will commit to your trust the true riches?" 16:11.

No margin note but this comment:
     In Luke16, Jesus unfolds the parable of the unjust steward and Lazarus and the rich man. I have heard sermons on each of these separately, yet, what I understand is they are teaching the same thing.
     The tying verses are "So the master commended the unjust steward because he had dealt shrewdly. For the sons of this world are more shrewd in their generation than the sons of light. And I say to you, make friends for yourself by unrighteous mammon, that when you fail. they may receive you into an everlasting home" 16:8,9.
     God says Christians need to think shrewdly with the money we receive in this world, not as the unjust steward, but as good stewards toward the things of heaven.
     The rich man did many things for himself in this world before he died, yet it did absolutely nothing for him in the torments of hell fire.
     Think about how poor Lazarus carefully spent his money, even the tiny crumbs of what he could get begging. How he must have carefully used everything he bought, or received by the hand of anyone's donation.
     Bible teaching, God-fearing Churches today regularly work on very little finances, yet God says that we can actually use our gifts and tithes to our advantage and for the kingdom of God--and with Jesus' quote of Abrahams' and the rich man's words in vss 29-31, we know that preaching the gospel is the most important work for which we need to have finances.
     I think of Paul. He didn't enter a city with programs to feed the hungry, cloth the naked, or house the homeless--he entered a city with the purpose to preach the gospel. That was what his finances were for--the furtherance of the gospel!
     When people are saved after hearing the gospel--then God feeds them, clothes them and houses them. It just happens that way.

*+*

What are some of the verses in Luke you have purposefully marked, or some notes you have written in your Bible?

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Don't Interrupt My Song To God!

I can't sing. I can't read music. I do not know what the notes are in the music scale. I can't go up or down in a lyric until I've heard someone else sing it. I sing mostly in monotone. After I have learned a song by mimicry, I can then do a good rendition of it from whomever I have learned the song.

For all of that, I enjoy singing to God.

I am not sure if I would say I have a handicap to the singing part of worship, but it means I need the Song Leader to sing the songs the same way each time. I need the Song Leader to sing what is written in the Hymnal, the Chorus Book, on the overhead screen, or on the song sheet I have been given. If the song is going to be sung differently, the Song Leader needs to tell me at the beginning and lead me in the new set-up. Don't change it in the middle of the song.

I am singing to God. My voice is lifting to God. My mind is on God. I am worshiping God.

When I sing in a church service, or where God is worshiped, I am following the written lyrics, or memorized lyrics, word for word. Because of this, when the Song Leader's voice breaks in to say something not on the page or screen, suddenly I am interrupted. My mind is stolen from God because I have to stop to find out what the person wants me to do.

They've stolen my worship when they break into the lyrics to say something.

There have been issues where older congregations have failed to embrace the new music of worship. I tend to enjoy the older hymns and choruses also but on examining what I dislike is what I am explaining here. I can sing along with the 'contemporary' music on the radio with no difficulty lifting my voice to God with the newer style. I don't mind singing with a guitar, drums, horns, or any instrument but I need that instrument to be helping me to sing my worship to my Lord and Savior. I've discovered it's not the music, so that leaves the presentation.

What I need in a church service is for the Song Leader to lead me in singing of praise to God.

Please, if you are a Song Leader, simply do that for those of us who haven't your musical skills.

Singing the same verse/chorus repeatedly does little to help me worship. I end up wondering how many times we're going to repeat this after the first five or six times. That means I've been stolen from God.

If I have the words in front of me, I don't need to be reminded what verse I'm on. An instrumental solo isn't necessary either.

I can sing with a full orchestra in church but they need only help me in worship of God. I like good music, and I like all sorts of music but when I'm singing to God that's what I am doing. The Song Leader is just that---The Song Leader, leading me in singing to Almighty God.

When it's time to sing to God, lead the singing. Don't interrupt my worship.

Don't interrupt my song to God!

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James: A Self-Help Book

Christian, do you want to know what to do?

Now that I have your attention, let me make it clear the Bible is NOT a Self-Help book. If you approach the Bible attempting to make yourself better, imagining it will make you more Spiritual and thus graduating into God's graces---Forget about it!

Now let me now explain my title. Ever heard someone say "I wish I knew how to be a better Christian?" or "What is expected of me?" Maybe you've even asked this. Well, the small letter James wrote actually defines elements of what to do as a Christian. This is a very limited list. Serving God is limitless and you need to seek Him for full instructions but here are some basic 'steps' to your worthy goal.

1. A Christian must know God

     As he opens his letter, James first acknowledges his personal standing and where his faith lies. This is fundamental to Christianity. God wrote the Holy Bible through the hand of faithful men, (2 Peter 1:20, 21). Your first step is become more knowledgeable about God, the Bible, and the world where you live.
2. A Christian needs to ask God how-to live every day life

     James 1: 5 says ask for wisdom. Wisdom is the ability to use all your knowledge in everyday life. How simple a message--if you don't know--ask. The wisdom that comes from God helps you know how-to ask and what-to ask. This message also comes with an explanation in the surrounding verses 2-10. That is, verses 2-4, how-to get through hardships, verses 5-8 are how-to pray, verses 9 - 11 are how-to live within your social status and income.
3. A Christian is to not be deceived

     Verses 1:12-18 are how-to avoid and resist temptation. The Christian life actually does draw distinct lines of right and wrong. The more you know about Jesus, the clearer these demarcations become. Temptation is not sin--giving into them is the sin that kills you. While you may not die from whatever you sin, you will certainty sever your line of communication with God. In that case, confess your sin (no excuses) and ask forgiveness, repent of them and see self-help #1.
4. A Christian must apply the Bible

     "But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves" (1:22). Simple. Well not if you don't read the Bible. The Bible is loaded with instructions and lessons for Christian living in all things. The more you read it the more you understand it. If you neglect this task, you'll be left with a lot of unexplained questions about how to be a witness for Christ. After all, a witness is a person who tells what they have seen. Miss the first two applications and the prosecution, (Satan), will tear you to shreds on the witness stand. When things get hard to manage, return to self-help #2.
5. A Christian must study human nature and in most cases do the opposite of everything the world does toward their fellow man

     James 2:1-13. Self-help in how-to be approved by all without offending God or man. Or how-to live among all your people, Christian and non-Christian, and still please God.

6. A Christian must prove their Christianity

     A dangerous job yet unavoidable in every Christian's life. (James 2:14-26) Do all your work totally for Jesus. Your menial and extraordinary tasks should all be done in knowledge and acknowledgment of your recognition of God's ownership of you. The demons know God but they have no connection to life through Him. You do--so prove it! I am not going to list what to do. Go back to the previous self-helps for instructions in this area.
7. A Christian must very carefully teach all they know

     Chapter 3, verses 1-12 is all about talking. As representatives of Jesus, (2 Corinthians 5:20), we're to carefully speak about God diligently and knowledgeably. (see #1) But utilize self-helps #1 & #2 before you open your mouth. Get as much wisdom as possible about it all. Never stop studying about God, the Bible and your Christianity.

8. A Christian must constantly examine themselves

     If you don't put yourself under a microscope you will never see the minute, filthy, ungodly specks stuck all over your humanness. James 3:13 through 4:12 spells out right and wrong. Get a good dictionary and look up all the words. Make a list of them in two columns, good and bad. Memorize the good as verbs--actions to live everyday. Think of the bad as murderers and sentence them all to death row. If you have to kill them every day---do it! "For if you live according to the flesh you will die; but if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body, you will live" Romans 8:13. (note that 4:2 & 3 remind you to ask God for what you need and explains how-to ask it.)

9: A Christian must never ignore God's sovereignty

     Make plans and conduct yourself with God's input. (4: 13-5:12) You want life insurance--get the best plan you can but always remember God is your ultimate life-line. Want to start a business--open the very best business you can--but always remember God knows your closing date. Want to raise a family--go ahead and raise the most beautiful and godly children in the world but always remember God loves them more than you do. Want to build a house--build the best house in the neighborhood but always remember God lives there too. Buy a car, buy a boat, take a world cruise, ski the Swiss Alps, climb Mt. Everest, learn a second language, sing in the choir, or go to a mission field? God's wants to help you achieve it all. Be shrewd in all you strive for. Seek all the professional help possible within your means, but always remember God owns it all, is over all, and controls all. Your behavior in your every day life is a reflection of your faith. For further instruction review self-helps #1--#8.

10. A Christian must remain integral to a body of believers.

     No Christian is a lone ranger. James 5:13-19 is how-to bless and be blessed as part of a body of believers. If you neglect you're part of the church in Christ, you negate all previous ideas of how to serve God. The best Self-Help you can give yourself is to be an integral part of a Bible believing church. Your faith will manifest itself in how to treat your brothers and sisters, how you pray, how to seek God, and how to minister to other believers.

Grace is God's gift and no one can ever be a self-made Christian

Read James for instructions on How-To live as a Christian, but don't stop there. Reading the entire Bible will help you know what you're to be doing.

"All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work" 

2 Timothy 3:16, 17.

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5 Bible Study Books for Groups or Individuals

(The Bereans), were more fair-minded than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness, and searched the scriptures daily to find out whether these things were so" Acts 17:11

* * * * *

Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth" 2 Timothy 2:15

* * * * * 

When I became a Christian, I certainly didn't know what God had in store for me. Looking back over the way God has used me and the things He has taught me, I amazed where I am today. I am amazed that God has done things with me that I never dreamed possible before my salvation.

Bible study is an essential for any growth in a Christian's life. You cannot get out from your babyhood without at least reading the Bible. Taking me from my intense fear of people, in His sovereign knowledge, God has given me the privilege of disciplining others, a ministry I would never have picked for myself. Where God has put me, I now know how diligent teaching is a major ministry for the church. 

"The older women likewise, that they be reverent in behavior, 

... teachers of good things, that they admonish the young women 

to love their husbands, to love their children, to be discreet, chaste, homemakers, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word 

of God may not be blasphemed" Titus 2: 3,4.

Here are five study books I recommend for teachers and students of the Bible. As a Home Bible study teacher, I have received approval for these guide books from my pastor and elders of my home church.

This list is in no particular order or preference.

* * * * * 

1. Design for Discipleship (Navpress).

Through a Discipleship class at our church, my Husband and I were introduced to this study first for our own benefit. When we opened our house for God's use, we used this series with a neighbor couple who would come once a week. Then the opportunity for me to lead a Ladies Home Bible study, I chose to begin the group with this series. There are seven books in this series, and includes a teacher's guide.
If you are new to leading a Bible study group, this is a great starter for teachers as well as new Christians. The layout is well presented and the Guide has many helps for the structure of the group and offers Leadership organization and tips.

Can be found at Navpress.com
or Amazon

* * * * * 

2. Ruth, Esther: (Shepherd's Notes published by Holman Reference)

This book was chosen by the girl's Sunday School class. They wanted to know more about Ruth and agreed on this study for the class. I enjoyed it, and the discussion among the girls was interesting as to Ruth's manners, way of life, and the extreme changes she went through to her maturity in worshiping God. Being teenagers, the changes were something the girls had a hard time accepting but the questions brought up during this study made the book of Ruth come alive for them. 

Found at Amazon & 

Bible Books stores

* * * * * 

3. Becoming a Woman of Influence: (Navpress) 

My former pastor's wife taught the Ladies Bible study group through this book. In this study, I discovered the joy of Scripture memorization. I learned the important fact that to disciple, or witness to anyone, Scripture memorization is major. Using the Bible as center in our conversations will help others in all aspects of life. I had to know Scripture to have the correct tools to teach/help/mentor others.

Found at Navpress & Amazon
* * * * * 

4. The Mind of Christ: (Discovery Series Bible Study) 

This little book brought out much conversation among our Home Study group. There were some in attendance who had never known so much about Jesus' character, and the depth of His sacrifice. I recommend this study for a group or individual who wants to learn about Jesus' example to His church. It is a good basis for explaining proper Christ-like conduct and discovering how to better serve one another in the church. Further, this is a good study if you desire to search out your own ministry.

Found at DiscoverySeries.org 


* * * * * 

5. Giving Christ First Place: First Place Bible Study  (Guiding Light)

This Study series was brought to my attention in our church as helpful in learning self control and moderation. It is a good guide for prioritizing holiness and prayer over the desires of self. It emphasizes accountability, kindness, and bearing one another's burdens.

I found it helpful in teaching me about the food I was eating and the manner I consumed it. I believe there are seven books in this series but I have only gone through the first two.

I still use two of the aspects of these books. Because I collect cookbooks, I like the recipe sections. Another thing I like is at the back of each book is a Commitment Record where the participant takes stock of certain aspects of food, exercise, prayer, Bible reading and memorization.

If possible, I recommend getting original copies that contain a CD of the memorization Scripture set to music.

Found at Amazon

* * * * * 

Bonus title:

6. A Life Changing Encounter with God's Word from the Book of PROVERBS  (Navpress)

There are multiple studies in the Life Changing Series that take lessons from specific books of the Bible, all of which are great for group study and discussion. I was introduced to this series as a participant in a Ladies Home group, and our teacher had us go through this particular study book of Proverbs. 

The questions presented ask for the participant to really dig deep for the knowledge of God in the word. As suggested in the title, it is designed for teaching a person to identify their needs to change and gives Biblical reasoning for the good of the change.

Found at Navpress.com

* * * * * 

There is no excuse for a Christian not to study the word if they have the freedom to do so. God desires all of His children to 'grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ'. (2 Peter 3:18)

Six Habit-Forming Daily Devotions

Ever wonder if you've prayed enough? Well, you have to answer that one for yourself, but here is a list of six ideas to overcome the challenge of daily devotions in a busy life.

1. Pray before getting out of bed.

Even if you're late and running with the pedal to the metal, don't swing your legs off the bed before saying something to God. Need a short list of prayer requests?

• His Wisdom for whatever you encounter in the day
• His Help with any trouble you're facing
• For someone's salvation
• For someone's health
• Anybody for any reason that comes to mind
• Lord, Help me bless someone today 
• Thank you, Lord

2. Speak a prayer aloud for your spouse or children

Still in a rush? Even in a quick passing, lay your hand on the shoulder of at least one person in your care and say a short prayer. Need a short list of prayer requests? In each short prayer, name the person as you bring them before God.

• Lord, protect (name)
• Lord, I love (name)
• Lord, help (name) today
• Lord, give (name) a peaceful day
• Lord, Thank You for giving (name) to me
• Lord, help me be (name) Husband or Help me be (name) Wife, or Help me be (name) parent

3. Speak a Scripture verse to God

Are you still running late? Don't have time to look up any Bible verses, or read any devotional material? Well, most Christian homes have a verse plaque hanging somewhere, be it Bathroom, Kitchen, or Hallway. Stop and read it to God, taking a breather to think about the power in those words. If you have only a few, then make sure you get more and hang them all over your house. You'll never be without blessing material.

4. Speak a verse aloud

Do you commute in a personal auto? You have time to meditate on at least one verse. If you ride public transport or carpool, maybe you have to wait until you're alone. Take sometime during your day to say a verse aloud. Speaking Scripture is wonderful. You get to think it, feel it in your mouth, and hear it said. Three blessings. Are you at home? Then you can bless a family member with your worship. Maybe you can even speak the verse together, doubling the blessing.

5. Pray before tasting every piece of food or swallow of drink

Even if you're grabbing a doughnut and coffee at the drive-thru, say Thank You, God. You couldn't drive through to get your doughnut and coffee if it weren't for God. It's His car, His food, and especially His money you're spending. He even made it possible for the Drive-Thru to exist at that location.

6. Speak the name of Jesus aloud

For any believer, the name of Jesus is a loving word. It cannot be spoken without some thought about His Holiness, or Grace, or Crucifixion, or Resurrection, or Lordship, or His Forgiveness.

Nurture the habit of speaking love aloud and it'll grow easier every day. As you speak verses and prayers aloud around your family and even among your friends, they'll catch the worship habit as well and multiply the blessing to God.

"For faith comes by hearing and hearing by the word of God" 

Romans 10:17. NKJ

# # #

For more ideas on prayers for the people in your life, 

download this free PDF file. 

Ten Things to Pray For in the Lives of Others

Free Books 4 U

Does your child like to read, yet won't pick up a book?

Would you like your child to read but can't get them interested in a book?

Will your child spend hours reading a computer screen?

Give them EBooks.

Amazon has many Free Christian EBooks and  Free Christain Childrens EBooks for you and your child. Just download them to your Kindle or App device and get busy reading!

You can also get free reading materials from Barnes & Noble. There are many Free Christian downloads or inexpensive priced books available. Enjoy reading with your child.

If you and your spouse or a good friend want to have a reading contest, each get the same books and see who can read the most titles. Or how about gathering a group of friends or church family and having a EReader Discussion Group. Have a day to get together in person or a group chat to have a discussion about the material you read.

Here are a few other websites where you can download free EBooks.
20 Best Websites to Download Free EBooks

 Maybe you're on the go, and want to read but can't seem to find the time to actually sit down with a good book?

If you're up on the Tech-age, and you have any computer device that you carry with you at all times, you have no excuse at all!

Get into a good book and enjoy yourself. 

 Even your phone can be a great companion as you read your favorite EBooks while you wait for appointments, flights, or just waiting for a friend.