IT IS WELL WITH MY SOUL

After the death of my sister who is very close to my heart.

When peace, like a river, attendeth my way, When sorrows like sea billows roll; Whatever my lot, Thou has taught me to say, It is well, it is well, with my soul. It is well, with my soul, It is well, with my soul, It is well, it is well, with my soul. Though Satan should buffet, though trials should come, Let this blest assurance control, That Christ has regarded my helpless estate, And hath shed His own blood for my soul. It is well, with my soul, It is well, with my soul, It is well, it is well, with my soul. My sin, oh, the bliss of this glorious thought! My sin, not in part but the whole, Is nailed to the cross, and I bear it no more, Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, O my soul! It is well, with my soul, It is well, with my soul, It is well, it is well, with my soul. And Lord, haste the day when my faith shall be sight, The clouds be rolled back as a scroll; The trump shall resound, and the Lord shall descend, Even so, it is well with my soul. It is well, with my soul, It is well, with my soul, It is well, it is well, with my soul. - Words by Horatio G. Spafford, 1873- Music by Philip P. Bliss, 1876The words to this hymn was written after two major traumas in Spafford’s life. The first was the Great Chicago Fire of October 1871, which ruined him financially. Shortly after, while crossing the Atlantic, all four of Spafford’s daughters died in a collision with another ship. Spafford’s wife Anna survived and sent him the now famous telegram: “SAVED ALONE.” Several weeks later, as Spafford’s own ship passed near the spot where his daughters died, he was inspired to write these words. Bliss originally named the tune “Ville de Havre” after the ship on which Spafford’s four girls perished, the SS Ville de Havre. Ironically, Bliss himself died in a tragic train wreck shortly after writing this music. HYMN HISTORY: This hymn was written by a Chicago lawyer, Horatio G. Spafford. You might think to write a worship song titled, ‘It is well with my soul’, you would indeed have to be a rich, successful Chicago lawyer. But the words,“When sorrows like sea billows roll … It is well with my soul”, were not written during the happiest period of Spafford’s life. On the contrary, they came from a man who had suffered almost unimaginable personal tragedy. Horatio G. Spafford and his wife, Anna, were pretty well-known in 1860’s Chicago. And this was not just because of Horatio’s legal career and business endeavors. The Spaffords were also prominent supporters and closefriends of D.L. Moody, the famous preacher. In 1870, however, things started to go wrong. The Spaffords’ only son was killed by scarlet fever at the age of four. A year later, it was fire rather than fever that struck. Horatio had invested heavily in real estate on the shores of Lake Michigan. In 1871, every one of these holdings was wiped out by the great Chicago Fire. Aware of the toll that these disasters had taken on the family, Horatio decided to take his wife and four daughters on a holiday to England. And, not only did they need the rest — DL Moody needed the help. He was traveling around Britain on one of his great evangelistic campaigns. Horatio and Anna planned to join Moody in late 1873. And so, the Spaffords traveled to New York in November, from where they were to catch the French steamer ‘Ville de Havre’ across the Atlantic. Yet just before they set sail, a last-minute business development forced Horatio to delay. Not wanting to ruin the family holiday, Spafford persuaded his family to go as planned.He would follow on later. With this decided, Anna and her four daughters sailed East to Europe while Spafford returned West to Chicago. Just nine days later, Spafford received a telegram from his wife in Wales. It read:“Saved alone.” On November 2nd 1873, the ‘Ville de Havre’ had collided with ‘The Lochearn’, an English vessel. It sank in only 12 minutes, claiming the lives of 226 people. Anna Spafford had stood bravely on the deck, with her daughters Annie, Maggie, Bessie and Tanetta clinging desperately to her. Her last memory had been of her baby being torn violently from her arms by the force of the waters. Anna was only saved from the fate of her daughters by a plank which floated beneath her unconscious body and propped her up. When the survivors of the wreck had been rescued, Mrs. Spafford’s first reaction was one of complete despair. Then she heard a voice speak to her, “You were spared for a purpose.” And she immediately recalled the words of a friend, “It’s easy to be gratefuland good when you have so much, but take care that you are not a fair-weather friend to God.” Upon hearing the terrible news, Horatio Spafford boarded the next ship out of New York to join his bereaved wife. Bertha Spafford (the fifth daughter of Horatio and Anna born later) explained that during her father’s voyage, the captain of the ship had called him to the bridge. “A careful reckoning has been made”, he said, “and I believe we are now passing the place where the de Havre was wrecked. The water is three miles deep.” Horatio then returned to his cabin and penned the lyrics of his great hymn. The words which Spafford wrote that day come from 2 Kings 4:26. They echo the response of the Shunammite woman to the sudden death of her only child. Though we are told “her soul is vexed within her”, she still maintains that ‘It is well.” And Spafford’s song reveals a man whose trust in the Lord is as unwavering as hers was. It would be very difficult for any of us to predict how we would react under circumstances similar to those experienced by the Spaffords. But we do know that the God who sustained them would also be with us. No matter what circumstances overtake us may we be able to say with Horatio Spafford… When peace like a river, attendeth my way, When sorrows like sea billows roll; Whatever my lot, Thou hast taught me to say, It is well, it is well with my soul. Though Satan should buffet, though trials should come, Let this blest assurance control, That Christ hath regarded my helpless estate, And hath shed His own blood for my soul! It is well … with my soul!It is well, it is well, with my soul. From AMANDA'S BLOG http://meldycs13.blog.friendster.com/?CMP=24

A PASTOR'S HEART (MALE)

I A well spoken message stirs a heart to rejoice There is nothing like a strong, resilient voice But when sorrow comes, there is no better gift to impart Then the gift of a caring, pastor's heart II A loving touch or a kind word A moment of counsel from God's holy word A telephone call--after you just heard.., Is the gift of our pastor's heart. III Lord, bless this pastor In each new day Bless his ministry along the way For fame and fortune can never impart The precious gift of a caring pastor's heart IV Just a servant of Christ and at times a dear friend With a dersire to love God To the very end Tending his flock in the Savior's way Is the gift of a pastor's heart V Striving to live as an apostle of Christ Serving his father giving Godly advice! Preaching and teaching and sharing the Word Is the gift of a caring pastor's heart.

OLD SOLDIERS OF THE CROSS - By the late Pastor Victoriano T. Luzong

OLD SOLDIERS OF THE CROSS
(V. T. LUZONG)

Old soldiers of the cross,
Mature, mellow and ripe,
In the battle of righteousness,
Under the command of Christ.

Old soldiers of the cross,
Ye held the banner high
The standard of holiness,
For Christ’s coming is nigh.

Old soldiers of the cross,
Examples to the youth,
In devotion to the Master,
What’re will be the cost.

Old soldiers of the cross,
What hardship ye had met,
In fighting for the cause of Christ,
In the winning of the lost.

Old soldiers of the Cross,
Your enemies were great,
Yes, all were die – hard Satan’s host,
Some were the false comrades.

Old soldiers of the cross,
Ye fought a great fierce fight,
Endowed with power by God’s grace,
Filled with the Holy Ghost.

Old soldiers of the cross,
In heav’n awaits a crown,
Triumphant unto the lost,
Victory ye have won.

Trees That Wood by: Author Unknown, Source Unknown

Once there were three trees on a hill in the woods. They were discussing their hopes and dreams when the first tree said, "Someday I hope to be a treasure chest. I could be filled with gold, silver and precious gems. I could be decorated with intricate carving and everyone would see the beauty."

Then the second tree said, "Someday I will be a mighty ship. I will take kings and queens across the waters and sail to the corners of the world. Everyone will feel safe in me because of the strength of my hull."

Finally the third tree said, "I want to grow to be the tallest and straightest tree in the forest. People will see me on top of the hill and look up to my branches, and think of the heavens and God and how close to them I am reaching. I will be the greatest tree of all time and people will always remember me."

After a few years of praying that their dreams would come true, a group of woodsmen came upon the trees. When one came to the first tree he said, "This looks like a strong tree, I think I should be able to sell the wood to a carpenter" ... and he began cutting it down. The tree was happy, because he knew that the carpenter would make him into a treasure chest.

At the second tree a woodsman said, "This looks like a strong tree, I should be able to sell it to the shipyard." The second tree was happy because he knew he was on his way to becoming a mighty ship.

When the woodsmen came upon the third tree, the tree was frightened because he knew that if they cut him down his dreams would not come true. One of the woodsmen said, "I don't need anything special from my tree so I'll take this one", and he cut it down.

When the first tree arrived at the carpenters, he was made into a feed box for animals. He was then placed in a barn and filled with hay. This was not at all what he had prayed for. The second tree was cut and made into a small fishing boat. His dreams of being a mighty ship and carrying kings had come to an end. The third tree was cut into large pieces and left alone in the dark. The years went by, and the trees forgot about their dreams.

Then one day, a man and woman came to the barn. She gave birth and they placed the baby in the hay in the feed box that was made from the first tree. The man wished that he could have made a crib for the baby, but this manger would have to do. The tree could feel the importance of this event and knew that it had held the greatest treasure of all time. Years later, a group of men got in the fishing boat made from the second tree. One of them was tired and went to sleep. While they were out on the water, a great storm arose and the tree didn't think it was strong enough to keep the men safe. The men woke the sleeping man, and he stood and said "Peace" and the storm stopped. At this time, the tree knew that it had carried the King of Kings in its boat.

Finally, someone came and got the third tree. It was carried through the streets as the people mocked the man who was carrying it. When they came to a stop, the man was nailed to the tree and raised in the air to die at the top of a hill. When Sunday came, the tree came to realize that it was strong enough to stand at the top of the hill and be as close to God as was possible, because Jesus had been crucified on it.

The moral of this story is that when things don't seem to be going your way, always know that God has a plan for you. If you place your trust in Him, He will give you great gifts. Each of the trees got what they wanted, just not in the way they had imagined. We don't always know what God's plans are for us. We just know that His ways are not our ways, but His ways are always best.

OUR DAILY BREAD - (August 24, 2008)

The Spiritual Search

“What man is there among you who, if his son asks for bread, will give him a stone?” (Matthew 7:9).

The illustration of prayer that our Lord used here is one of a good child who is asking for something good. We talk about prayer as if God hears us regardless of what our relationship is to Him (see Matthew 5:45). Never say that it is not God’s will to give you what you ask. Don’t faint and give up, but find out the reason you have not received; increase the intensity of your search and examine the evidence. Is your relationship right with your spouse, your children, and your fellow students? Are you a “good child” in those relationships? Do you have to say to the Lord, “I have been irritable and cross, but I still want spiritual blessings”? You cannot receive and will have to do without them until you have the attitude of a “good child.”
We mistake defiance for devotion, arguing with God instead of surrendering. We refuse to look at the evidence that clearly indicates where we are wrong. Have I been asking God to give me money for something I want, while refusing to pay someone what I owe him? Have I been asking God for liberty while I am withholding it from someone who belongs to me? Have I refused to forgive someone, and have I been unkind to that person? Have I been living as God’s child among my relatives and friends? (see Matthew 7:12).

I am a child of God only by being born again, and as His child I am good only as I “walk in the light” (1 John 1:7). For most of us, prayer simply becomes some trivial religious expression, a matter of mystical and emotional fellowship with God. We are all good at producing spiritual fog that blinds our sight. But if we will search out and examine the evidence, we will see very clearly what is wrong—a friendship, an unpaid debt, or an improper attitude. There is no use praying unless we are living as children of God. Then Jesus says, regarding His children, “Everyone who asks receives ” (Matthew 7:8).

TEN RULES FOR LIFE - Thomas Jefferson

1. Never put off until tomorrow what you can do today.
2. Never trouble another person for what you can do.
3. Never spend your money before you have earned it.
4. Never buy what you don't want because it's cheap.
5. Beware of pride. It will cost you far more than hunger, thirst, and cold.
6. Remember that we seldom repent of having eaten to little.
7. Remember that nothing is troublesome that we do willingly.
8. Remember that worry will cause much pain over things that will never happen.
9. Take things always by the smooth handle.
10. When angry count ten before you speak. If very angry, count to one hundred.
    

DO YOU HAVE ON THE WHOLE ARMOUR OF GOD?

(Ephesians 6:10-18)

“Put ye on the whole armour of God,”

That you may be strong in His might,

For we fight spiritual darkness, the world, self, and the devil,

And must be always ready and able to fight!

“Put ye on the whole armour of God…”

--It’s a commandment, not a suggestion.

If you leave any part off, you won’t stand every test,

And you won’t have complete protection.

Do you have on the whole armour of God?

--And live each day to do battle, and fight?

We are called to be soldiers, to fight the good fight of faith,

And fight for the Truth and the right!

Do you have on the whole armour of God?

God has given each part for a reason—

To be all you should be, and ne’er know defeat,

And be “instant in season, out of season.”

Do you have on the whole armour of God?

--Both the offensive and the defensive?

God wants us to do more than just protect ourselves;

He also wants us to go on the offensive.

Do you have on the whole armour of God?

Are your loins with the Truth girt about?

The Truth sets us free, gives us power in the fight,

And helps us false doctrine to rout.

Do you have on the whole armour of God?

Are you walking in all of the light?

If we try to get by, we deceive ourselves,

And soon lose our spiritual eyesight.

Do you have on the whole armour of God?

--Have the breastplate of righteousness on?

Do you have a conscience void of offense,

Are you living holy before God and before men?

Do you have on the whole armour of God?

--Have a victorious, Spirit-filled life?

Or is the Spirit shut out, and self in control,

And your life filled with defeat and strife?

Do you have on the whole armour of God?

--Are your feet with the Gospel of peace shod?

Are you standing firmly for God, and spreading the

Good News

Of salvation through the slain Lamb of God?

Do you have on the whole armour of God?

The shield of faith do you hold near?

To know our sins are forgiven brings great confidence

That Satan’s fiery darts we need not fear

Do you have on the whole armour of God?

God inspires our faith to believe.

Through faith, we appropriate His promises,

And all that we need, we receive.

Do you have on the whole armour of God?

--The helmet of hope of salvation?

--The expectation of conquering through the blood of the

Lamb,

And preserving your hope of Heaven?

Do you have on the whole armour of God?

--The sword of the Spirit have in your hand?

The Word of God, through the Spirit fulfilled,

To use at a moment’s command?

Do you have on the whole armour of God?

--Have the Word of God hid in your heart?

In temptations and trials, to quote and to claim,

It will repel Satan’s vilest dart.

Do you have on the whole armour of God?

--And use the weapons of prayer and fasting?

What a difference they can make, Satan’s power to break,

And glorious victory to bring!

Do you have on the whole armour of God?

Are you listening and watching diligently?

Don’t be distracted, or fall asleep at your post,

And be caught off guard by the Enemy!

Do you have on the whole armour of God?

Don’t take off even one of the parts.

Satan knows where you’re weak, and that’s just where

he’ll strike

And wound you with one of his darts.

Do you have on the whole armour of God?

Don’t take it off for a minute!

For the battle may come, and Satan may strike

Just when you may least expect it!

Do you have on the whole armour of God?

There’s no armour given for your back,

So don’t turn around, or ever retreat,

Though things may seem hopeless and black.

Do you have on the whole armour of God?

Jesus is the Captain of our salvation,

We must go where He leads, and obey His commands,

Until our life here on earth is done.

Do you have on the whole armour of God?

Don’t take it off and lay it down,

The battles will all be over some day,

And only the faithful receive a crown.

-- Dolores K. Morehouse

God's Church - Thomas H. Low

God's Church

Thomas H. Low

I want to call the attention of the readers of the [Gospel] Trumpet to a few thoughts that God has shown me while reading 1 Corinthians 12. "But now hath God set the members every one of them in the body, as it hath pleased him." I have been asked, "How will you proceed without a church?" etc. Now I want to show that I have not come out of the church, God's church, at all.

God has a visible, organized church in the world, and only one, and it is independent of all human organizations, of the present day, which men call churches,--"our church,"—does not imply leaving God's church at all. God's church, we see from the above scripture, is always organized by the Holy Spirit: but no two human churches are organized alike, here is there confusion, because men have undertaken to do God's work.

They undertook to build a tower to heaven 4,000 years ago, and God confounded them, just as He has all of the "high places" of this great sect Babel.

But why has God reserved to Himself the prerogative of organizing His church? "He hath se the members, (not some of them only, but) everyone of them, in the body as it hath pleased Him, that there should be no schisms in the body." Here you have the reason, plainly stated. God so intensely desired the unity of His church, that He would not allow men to attempt its organization, lest they create schisms in the body. But in utter disregard to God's holy word, men have gone organizing churches, as they call them; but the result is only the creation of partition walls; bringing in "damnable heresies," sects, or "divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine we have received."

Oh God, can men be so blind as to still build up and hold up these accursed walls.

Now read verse 27. "Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular." Some think that their sect is right and none other is; while many tell us that all of them are right, all branches of the body of Christ.

Now beloved, in all good conscience before God, and with charity for all men, let us test these things by the word of God. If you are right give us "thus saith the Lord," but if we, who you call, "come outers" really belong to, and represent the only church that God recognizes in heaven or earth, […?...] reject the truth.

We are members of the body into which the Holy Spirit set us; which the Bible calls "the church of God." Now I ask, what branch, or human organization, can you say God set you into by His Spirit? None, not one; none of you dare make that claim.

Again, read verses 25, 26. "That there should be no schism in the body; but that the members should have the same care one for another. And whether one member suffer, all the members suffer with it; or one member be honoured, all the members rejoice with it." Where is the sect whose members "have the same care one for another." It is only the real body of Christ, the true and holy Church of God, that has such a vital union, that, if "one member suffer, all the members suffer with it; or one member be honoured, all the members rejoice with it." No human organization contains this measure of pure love and sympathy.

But how does God set the members in the body? Christ says, "I am the door: by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved."—John 10:9 "For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body." The moment a person is converted to God, he is in the church of God, and though he were a thousand miles away from every human sect, he is recognized before the courts of heaven, as a full member of God's church. This is God's way of taking in members; and any so-called church, that has a different door than Christ; a different way of taking in members than by regeneration, and adoption of the Spirit, is fraud, and a cheat, yea, a rival of Christ's body.

Men are put out of the church by the same power that takes them in. "Every branch in me that beareth not fruit He taketh away."—John 15:2 The instant a soul commits sin in his heart, he is out of the church; his "sin hath separated between him and his God." No need of church trials, with all their partiality, to throw men out of the church. The Lord attends to that business Himself; and He will not screen a man in his sin, because he has plenty of money to give the preacher and the church. O, I do praise God for the simplicity and beauty of the gospel of Christ.

Let our prayers be, "Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven." Amen.

WOMEN PREACHERS

Question: In your December (1962) [The Way of Truth] paper, pg. 20, you say that women have the right to preach, and you refer to Joel 2:28, 29 where it is said women would prophesy. Is there any proof that women ever prophesied in the public assembly of the church? If so, how would you explain first Corinthians 14:34, 35 and first Timothy 2: 11, 12?

Answer:

We must either accept the Word of God as being true or else say it is false! Joel 2:28, 29 plainly states that women would prophesy. “And it shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out my spirit upon all flesh; and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, your young men shall see visions: And also upon the servants and upon the handmaids in those days will I pour out my spirit.” Now either they did, or the Word of God is false.

Webster gives as one definition for “prophesy,” “to expound the Scriptures”: to preach.” Now to whom would they “expound the Scripture” or to whom would women preach? Whether it be to one (as Jesus did at the well), or whether it be to a thousand; if it is preaching, it is preaching! There would be no purpose in God’s giving women the gift of prophesy unless they was permitted to use it. You do not need the gift of prophesy to “testify” to individuals about the goodness of the Lord. Any child of God should be able to do that.

In regard to 1 Timothy 2:11, 12, this has no reference to women preaching. It is speaking of the husband-wife relationship in the home. “I suffer not a woman to teach, nor to usurp authority over the man (singular). Notwithstanding she shall be saved in childbearing, if they continue in faith and charity and holiness with sobriety.—vs. 15

Adam and Eve are referred to in this Scripture as an example, which further proves Paul was speaking of the family relations and not women’s official position in the church as set forth in other Scriptures.

In reference to 1 Corinthians 14:34, 35, let us notice this point. Paul said the women should keep silent. “Let your women keep silence in the churches: for it is not permitted unto them to speak; but they are commanded to be under obedience, as also saith the law. And if they will learn any thing, let them ask their husbands at home: for it is a shame for women to speak in the church.” Why do people apply this only to preaching? Silence means just that! [Silence—forbearance from speech or noise: MUTENESS] To take this just as it is stated, women should not pray, sing or testify, or even greet another person in the church. Does Paul mean that? No! For we read in this same book, chapter 11, verse 5, “But every woman that prayeth or prophesieth with her head uncovered dishonoureth her head,” which clearly shows women could pray or prophesy in church if they met the requirements. Now is Paul going to teach in chapter 11 that they can speak, and say in chapter 14 that they cannot?

Adam Clarke says, “It is evident from the context that the apostle refers here to asking questions, and what we call dictating, in the assemblies. It was permitted to any man to ask questions to object, attempt to refute, etc., in the synagogue: but this liberty was not allowed to any woman. … If they wished to learn anything, let them inquire of her husband at home. …All that the apostle opposes here is this questioning, finding fault, disputing, etc. …together with the attempt to usurp any authority over the men, by setting up their judgment in opposition to them; for the apostle has in view especially acts of disobedience, arrogance, etc., of which no woman would be guilty who was under the influence of the Spirit of God.”

Mr. Clarke says in reference to Joel’s words, “The Spirit of God was to be poured out on women as well as men, that they might prophesy, and that they did prophesy or teach is evident from what the apostle says in chapter 11, verse 5 (of 1 Corinthians, as I pointed out above) where he lays down rules to regulate their conduct while ministering in the church.”

We should always keep in mind that one part of God’s Word when rightly divided does not contradict another part. Also, in arriving at the truth concerning any Bible subject it is always good to get all Scriptures that bear on the subject together and rightly divide them. Many false doctrines have been built around one or two verses of Scripture that have been taken out of context and wrongly interpreted.

The gifts of the Spirit (preaching being one of those gifts) are given for the profit of all the church (1 Cor. 12:7). Therefore, when God in His great wisdom sees fit to give one of His handmaidens the gift of preaching it is for the benefit of the entire body.

SMILE!

Smile!

Smiling is infectious, you can catch it like the flu,

When someone smiled at me today, I started smiling too.

I passed around the corner and someone saw my grin,

When he smiled then I realized I’d passed it on to him.

I thought about that smile then realized its worth,

A single smile, just like mine could travel around the earth.

So, if you feel a smile begin, don’t leave it undetected.

Let’s start an epidemic quick, and get the world infected.

A Smile Cost Nothing

A smile costs nothing, but creates much. It enriches those who receive it without impoverishing those who give it. It happens in a flash and the memory of it sometimes last forever. None are so rich and none so poor that they can get along without it, but both are richer for its benefits.

It creates happiness in the home, fosters good will in a business and is the countersign of friends. It is rest to the weary, daylight to the discouraged, sunshine to the sad, and nature’s best antidote for trouble. Yet it cannot be bought, begged, borrowed or stolen, for it is something that’s no earthly good to anybody until it is given away.

Nobody needs a smile so much as those who have none left to give. Remember that the longest word in the English language is “smiles”, there’s a mile between the S’s.

I HAD TALK WITH GOD

I had a talk with God,
as I pondered my life's journey
"Dear God," I said, "I have no fear,
if I should die tonight.
I know my soul is saved,
for I have seen the light.

The blessings you've given were many,
some decisions I made were poor.
Still you looked upon me with love
Nothing less, nothing more."


And God asked...
"What more is there than God's love?"
I replied, "Nothing that I know."
He said, "For my love is eternal!"
I agreed, "True, no greater love I've known,
You always walked beside me."

God interjected... "Yes,
just as a true friend should always do."
I continued, "And when I grew weak and tired,
you let me lean on you."


"Dear child," God said,
"I've sent more things your way,
than you could ever want or need.
In return I ask just this,
live your life for me.

For, it's not the roads you travel,
that lead you to my door,
It's the souls that you'll bring with you,
that I put you on this earth for.


Take nothing I've given for granted,
for nothings truly yours to keep.
I only let you borrow them,
until you come home to live with me."


© 2007Sandie Johnston

Jesus, Captain of Life’s Sea

Jesus, Captain of Life’s Sea

I have a friend in Jesus
Who guides me through the gale
A first mate and a skipper
Who helps me to set sail.
He offers strength and guidance
A helmsman at the wheel
An ever-steady beam of light
A fortress made of steel.

He’s the master of the ocean
My refuge and my rock
A harbor that I turn to
My anchor at life’s dock.
He’s a mighty sailing warrior
A helping hand indeed
A pilot through the churning waves
He meets my every need.

He’s the One I always run to
When the waves won’t let me be
The lighthouse that I turn to
On a rough and troubled sea.
He’s a smoothly sailing vessel
A refuge from the storm
The gentle breeze that sends me to
An island, sweet and warm.

He’s a brave and fearless skipper
A shelter from the heat
My water when I’m thirsty
A vessel filled with wheat.
He’s a sure and steady sailor
My Captain on life’s sea
No matter where I journey
He goes along with me.

ONE OF TWO - By the Late Pastor Victoriano T. Luzong

ONE OF TWO If you will open your bible and begin with the twentieth verse of the seventh chapter of Matthew and read the remainder of the chapter, you will learn that you are one of two sets travelers, one of two trees, one of two kinds of builders. All men are travelers. Of these travelers there are two divisions. You and I are in one or the other of these two divisions. There are two gates, and only two. There are only two ways, and there are only two destinies. You have entered one of these gates, you are one of these ways, and you are going to one of two destinies. All men are trees, all are bearing fruit. Of these trees there are two and only two kinds. You and I are one or the other of these two kinds. There are two kinds of trees, two kind of fruit, two kinds of harvests. You are one kind of these kinds of trees. You are bearing one of two kinds of fruit. You are going to reap one of two kinds of harvests which shall it be? All men are builders. Of these builders there are two and only two sets. You and I are among one or the other of these two sets of builders. These are two and only two foundations on which they are building. These are two and only two foundations on which they are building. These are two and only two results. You may say that you are not a traveler. But you are a traveler every moment of your life, and the way in which you are traveling will decide what your destiny shall be. You may ay you are not bearing fruit. But you are bearing fruit everyday of your life, and the kind of fruit that you are bearing fruit everyday of your life, and the kind of fruit you are bearing determines what your harvest will be. You may say you are not building. But you are building everyday you live, and you are building on one of two foundations, and this determines what will be the result when the end comes. Those that hear the sayings of Jesus and do these are in the way that leads to life, and bearing the good fruit, and are building n the sure foundation. Those who hear the sayings of Jesus and do them not are on the broad way, are bearing evil fruit, and are building on the sandy foundation. He that hath ears to hear let him hear.”

REQUIREMENTS OF FAITHFULNESS AS A STEWARD OF GOD - CHARLIE CABURIAN

REQUIREMENTS OF FAITHFULNESS AS A STEWARD OF GOD

“Let a man so account of us, as the ministers of Christ, and stewards of the mysteries of God. Moreover it is required in stewards that o man be found faithful.” –I Cor. 4: 1-2

This part of the scripture specifically points to the minister but may I point out that stewardship is not limited to them alone. The church, every single member of the Church of God is a steward in one way or the other. We all have something given from God which He entrusted and as a steward we must be found faithful as the text declares. From these thoughts I’ve drawn from, I give this message the title “Requirements of Faithfulness as a Steward of God.”

Before going any further, there are two words that needs to be defined; they are requirements and faithfulness. Requirement in part means, “essential condition” and faithfulness in part means “being constant, true.” Faithfulness is derived from the root word faithful which is synonymous with loyalty. The key question to unlock the heart of this message would be “What are the Requirements (essential conditions) of Faithfulness (being constant, true) as a steward of God?” But before that, let us also consider the question, “Why is faithfulness required?” Let me answer by quoting from Bro. Greg Tylers’s ICC message October 2007 issue. In fact my formulating of this message was after reading and meditating on that message through approaching it on a different angle. “Why is faithfulness required? First of all, for our own eternal welfare. For us to gain a crown of life at the last day, we must be faithful to God. Faithfulness is required for our own eternal welfare and also for the spiritual welfare of others. Other people’s eternal destiny might depend on my faithfulness or my lack thereof faithfulness is required for the perpetuation of the gospel. Angels aren’t coming down on earth to show the gospel to humanity. “Faithfulness is required for the perpetuation of the gospel and for the preservation of the Church. We are part of something that is greater than we ourselves. Everyone is important. We are part of the greatest institution on the face of the earth. The progress of that institution (speaking of the Church) or the lack of progress, somewhat depends on our faithfulness. That’s why it is required of stewards that a man or woman be faithful. Faithfulness is required as a proof that the word of God is true. We prove if we are faithful that the word of God is true.” Please bear that in mind as you go along reading this message.

SALVATION – NECESSARY

Salvation is necessity. Salvation is the only method or means of placing us to the high rank of becoming a steward of God Almighty. No other way will do. A man may profess to be a steward of God without salvation but such stewardship is not conceded or accepted by God. To be steward we must be God called and God sent man. Never will God use as sinner to become a steward of His Heavenly Kingdom. In fact, salvation is the primary condition for being a faithful steward and the things to be discussed will serve as auxiliaries which I wish to enlarge upon. This confronts us with the question, “What is Salvation?” In the book of Matthew chapter 1 verse 21, we read “And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shall call his name Jesus: for he shall save his people from their sins.” The dictionary meaning of save in part means, “rescue, deliver, liberate, free”, and from what will Jesus save his people? The answer is a bare and obvious fact, it is from their sins. I searched for the meaning of the word “from” and this is what I found out – expressing point of departure, source, distance, cause, change of state, etc. So does this mean we can live free FROM sin? Precisely, through Jesus Christ we can. Salvation is effected by repentance… Except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish.” Luke 13:3. True repentance is manifested by its fruits. “Bring forth therefore fruits meet for repentance.” Matthew 3:8. Deep sorrow for sin is one of the fruits meet for repentance. “For Godly sorrow worketh repentance to salvation not to be repented of…”2 Cor. 7:10. “For I will declare mine iniquity, I will be sorry for my sin.” Psalm 38:18. In repenting, we throw ourselves to God with a broken and contrite spirit “The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, o God thou will not despise.” Psalm 51:17. There must be also a desire to leave our sins behind and with the desire comes the willingness to do or obey. And faith must also step in to get the work done.”...Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved…” Acts 16:31. This so far is the initial work of salvation, which allows us to become stewards of God. To become more useful and faithful, the Christian must also experience the sanctification of his nature. Yes, there’s a subsequent work after regeneration. Sanctification is not effected by repentance but rather an offering of self as a living sacrifice for cleansing of the deprived nature. It is called death to self. The Christian no longer lives for himself but rather Christ liveth in Him. It is a total consecration of our whole being. In doing this, we experience the cleansing power of the Holy Spirit and its infilling that enables us to become more useful as a steward of God.

As a stated earlier, salvation is the only method or means of placing an individual to become a steward of God. One notable example of this from the scripture is the experience we see from the life of the great prophet Isaiah. We find that in Isaiah 6: 1-8, space forbids that I’ll go on details writing that passage of the scripture and if we’re quite familiar with the scripture we’ll understand, but for those who needs some detailed information I ask them to read it from their Bibles. In that passage of the scripture, it is vividly evident that there is a qualification to the plea “Whom shall I send?” and evidently the qualification is salvation. We see here the sequence of the process of salvation in Isaiah’s life. Isaiah was “enlightened” to the truth that he is a sinner by his confession “… I am a man of unclean lips...” and we see him deeply sorrowed by saying “..Woe is me for I am undone..” What makes this beautiful was his willingness of inclination (not forced of frightened) to allow God to touch his lips and take his sins away and be purged. Consequently, he then was allowed to be sent bearing the message (one way of stewardship, another is the holy life that Christian’s bear) to be heralded to ancient Israel. Doubtless, circumstances in life are different among individual but despite the differences all who wants (and all must want it) to be steward of God must go through the same process. That is the staring point of being steward. Now in our days that sin in various forms and even different man-made religious denominations makes it difficult to prove this wonderful holy life. I emphasize sternly the need of exhibiting a clear and attractive holy life that Christians must near. Oh beloved Church of God, our holy life bears the message before this sin-benighted world. We also read in the scripture that we are “epistles known and read of all men”, that is a demand for a conscientious living. WE read in Titus 2:140 …”adorn the doctrine of God our Savior in all things.” To adorn there means “make beautiful, attractive, etc.” and the question I would like to raise there is “How are we going to adorn the doctrine of God”” May our answer be; by being a faithful steward of God!

REQUIREMENTS OF FAITHFULNESS

There are different virtues doubtless that will lead individual Christians to become more faithful. Let me name a few and I pray that what I am sharing will elevate the Church’s faithfulness.

I. FAITH

Faith makes us faithful. The Bible definition of faith means “…the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” He.11:1. There are three distinct meanings of faith. First, the act of the soul towards God and in His words. Secondly, faith is the doctrine of gospel. Third, historical faith. Historical faith is an active kind. If we desire to be faithful, we must have the first one listed above. In effect, if we have faith in God and in His promises comes the assurance that what He says He’ll do. In other words we can well count on what God says will come to pass. It would be unreasonable to be faithful to someone who is ever true and faithful. In the midst of trials and temptations, it is faith in God that will enable us to stand and pass through them showing our faithfulness. Faith produces an optimistic outlook in life, “And we know (believe with faith) that all thins work together for good to them that love God, to them who are called according to Hid purpose.” Romans 8:28. Even the most sorrowful event of life cannot lead us to be unfaithful if we have faith in our heart that says, “Everything works together for good.” We show our faithfulness by our faith in God. Temptations come as an effort of the devil to make us unfaithful but by having faith in God’s promises we can counter-act that by that by believing the words we find in I Cor. 10:13, “There hath no temptation taken you but such is common to man but God is faithful who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able, but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.” Believing on these words firmly will help us not to let God down. If Christians fail as a result of temptation, it shows a lack of faith, it’s a letting down of faith. Our faith must not be stagnant. Faith is even one of our most important armor; we read that in the book of Ephesians. Our faith must increase. Though our measure of faith depends on God’s distribution – Romans 12:3 “…according as God dealt to every man the measure of faith.” He still expects something on our part. Faith can be increased in various ways; by Bible reading, meditations, hearing, etc. “So then faith cometh by hearing and bearing the word of God.” Romans 10:17. One vital way to strengthen our faith is by exercising holiness. This faith and works in dual action. Have enough faith dearly beloved for faith begets faithfulness.

II. HOPE

Hope is next to faith. Hope in part means “expectation of something desired.” Let me share the interesting ideas given by the late D.O. Teasly in his book “Rays of Hope”, “Christian hope is the firm expectation of all promised good things, so far as they may be for God’s glory and our good but especially of eternal salvation and happiness in heaven where we shall be conformed to the son of God which hope is founded on the grace blood righteousness and intercession of Christ, and the earnest of the Holy Spirit in our hearts and the unchangeable truth and almighty power of God, which will always second His word. This hope is distinguished from worldly hopes, first by excellency of the object which is an eternal state of glory and joy; whereas worldly hopes are terminated on empty vanishing things gilded over with the thin appearance of good. Secondly by the stability of its foundation, namely God’s unchangeable truth and almighty power. God cannot lie and consequently neither deceive our faith, nor disappoint our hopes; He can do all things which the apostle makes the ground of his confidence. 2 Timothy 1: 12, I know whom I have believed and I am persuaded that he is able to keep that which I have committed to Him against that day. But worldly hopes are always uncertain. There is so much of impotence or deceit in all the means used to obtain human desires that the success is doubtful. Thirdly, divine hope is distinguished from carnal presumption by its inseparable effect; it has a cleansing efficacy. I John 3:2, ‘Every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure. He endeavors to shun all sin, and to be perfecting holiness. He purifieth himself by the assistance of the Holy Spirit, from whom the spiritual life, and all the operations if it do proceed. But vain and groundless hopes are inspirations of wind, loose and effective.” I cannot describe any better the way Bro. D. O. Teasly did. These suits perfectly the reason to be faithful. Knowing that beyond the troubles and persecutions as a consequence of righteous living is an eternal home with joy and glory, and knowing that this is real and not fancy; is there a reason cause to be unfaithful? Remind ourselves dearly beloved, St.Paul as a result of faithfulness said in Acts 28:20 – “For the hope of Israel I am bound with this chain.” Can we dear Christians say that “For my hope of heaven I will be faithful?”

III. OBEDIENT ATTITUDE

If we have an active faith and lively hope for heaven we are doubtless going to do (obey) the things that will lead us there. There must be within us an obedient attitude to every new light that comes our way as a result of walking with God. Obedience will elevate our spirituality and unlocks God’s power. Those who obey easily are the ones who grow into Christian maturity easily. I think of the apostle Paul. It did not take long years for the apostle Paul to become a man of prestige, his secret: obedience. I read a phrase that goes somewhat this way “In the spiritual world, maturity is not measured by time but by obedience pursued in conforming to become more like Christ.” Let me also say that “maturity is not measured by how much you know but by how you live what you know.” When people see you obeying God despite the scorns and persecutions they see someone who is loyal, loyal for the cause of Christ.

IV. LOVE

Love is the most powerful force on the face of the earth. That godly love “shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us.” This love is our motivating factor to be faithful. This love will be tested. There will be people allowed in our midst to become a tool of the devil. They’ll curse you; they’ll criticize you; persecute you, but having this love will help us realize that it’s the devil working behind instead of looking at what they’re doing, that deep love will see the need of that poor soul down on our persecutor’s heart. In fact love is the reason why we obey God’s commandments. Let our love be always on fire that people sees us as someone who is persuaded that even our bitterest enemy cannot cause us to be unfaithful. “Charity (love) suffereth long, and is kind (kindness is better than being right); charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself; is not puffed up, doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil; Rejoice not in iniquity, but rejoice in truth, beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things. Charity never faileth…” To have more of this love is to be more faithful.

V. HUMILITY

A humble heart acknowledges that he doesn’t know everything that’s why they always find the mind of God in everything he does. Humility will teach us to accept rebukes heartily. There are those who seem to be accepting rebukes but in their hearts is a resistance. A real humble heart is easily entreated. When we have more hearts of humility, problems which are inevitable can be easily solved. God always blesses the humble and brings down the proud. Pride is a bar that blocks God’s grace in our hearts. A humble heart esteems other more highly than themselves. These words are no doubt easier said than done but we can have more humility for all a work in progress. Let me share here something that’s quite interesting, taken from Pulpit Helps.

“If two goats meet each other in a narrow path above a stream of water, what do they do? They cannot turn back, and they cannot pass each other for there is not an inch of space room. Instinctively, they know if they butt each other, both will fall into the water below and be drowned. What would do they do?

Nature has taught one goat to lie down so that the other can pass over its body; as a result, each goat arrives at its destination safe and sound.

Try it. It works.”

Want to become faithful? Be humble.

VI. PATIENCE

Christian life is described as a race. In the book of Hebrew it is said that “…run with patience this race that is set before us.” Why do we need patience? We need it because this life is a life of severe battle, battle against the wickedness. And this battle is not just for a day but a lifetime battle here on earth. There are different effects coming from the devil trying to hinder us. These sufferings must be patiently endured. Patience is said that “it’s not the ability to wait but it’s having the right attitude while waiting.” Patience is needed in winning souls for Christ. Patience is needed in molding newborn babes in Christ. Patience is needed in solving problems of a local Church. Let us not minimize the importance of patience. Let me again share here a story entitled “Don’t give up…” taken from the book “Stories of the Heart.”

“One day a young man was walking along an isolated road when he heard something like a crying sound. He couldn’t tell for sure what the sound was but it seemed to be coming from underneath a bridge. As he approach the bridge, the sound got louder and then he saw a pathetic sight. There, lying in the muddy river bed, was a puppy about two months old. It has a gash on its head and was covered with mud. Its front legs were swollen where they had been tightly bound with cords.

The young man was immediately moved with compassion and wanted to help the dog, but as he approached, the crying stopped and the dog started snarled his lip and started to growl. But the young man did not give up. He sat down and started gently talking to the dog. It took a long time but eventually the dog stopped growling and the man was able to inch forward and eventually touched the dog and begin unwrapping the tightly bound cord. The young man carried the dog home, cared for its wounds, and gave it food and water and a warm bed. Even with this all, the dog continued to snarl and growl every time the young man approached. But the young man did not give up.

Weeks went by and the young man continued caring for the puppy. Then one day, as the young man approached, the dog wagged its tail. Consistent (patient) love and kindness had won a lifelong friendship of loyalty and trust began.”

“And let us not be weary in well doing; for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.” Galatians 6:9. Patience is needed to build a character of faithfulness.”