Walkin' That Line as a Son and Daughter of God

Good day Family, Colleagues, and Friends,

May you be richly blessed through our devotional study. 

Walkin' That Line as a Son and Daughter of God

Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world knoweth us not; because it knew him not. 1 John 3:1.

The term "son or daughter" means “a biological connection to a parent. On the other hand, an adopted, or foster child, or a stepchild is also a legal child of a parent by law. As John thought of the love of Christ, he was led to exclaim, “Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons, (and daughters) of God.” The Apostle Paul helps us see that we became sons and daughters of God by way of adoption. In Galatians 4:5, the Amplified Bible (AMP) puts it this way. “But when [in God’s plan] the proper time had fully come, God sent His Son, born of a woman, born under the [regulations of the] Law, so that He might redeem and liberate those who were under the Law, that we [who believe] might be adopted as sons [as God’s children with all rights as fully grown members of a family].”

The Bible teaches that adoption is the Heart of the Gospel. Although adopted, God deals with us, “that is those who have repented of their sins, are given spiritual sonship  as if they are biological sons and daughters of Himself, read Heb. 12:7 / 12:5–9. And, “I will be a Father to you, and you will be my sons and daughters, says the Lord Almighty.” 2 Corinthians 6:18. “Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God— children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband’s will, but born of God.” John 1:12-13. Going back to Galatians 4:4-5 it reads, “But when the set time had fully come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under the law, to redeem those under the law, that we might receive adoption to sonship.”

“To redeem means to obtain or to set free by paying a price. What was the price that God paid for our liberation and adoption? In the previous chapter, we heard the answer: “Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us—for it is written, ‘Cursed is everyone who is hanged on a tree” (Galatians 3:13). It cost God the price of his Son’s life.

There were legal realities God had to deal with. His own justice and law demanded that we be punished and excluded from his presence for our sins. Righteousness was required and punishment demanded. God had to satisfy his justice and his law in order to adopt sinners into his family. This he did by the life, death, and resurrection of his Son Jesus Christ.

This means that the status of being a son legally preceded the experience of the Spirit coming to give us the affections of sons. We are legally sons before we experience the joy of sonship. The object work of our salvation (two thousand years ago at Calvary) precedes and grounds the subjective experience of our salvation by the Spirit today. So it is with our adopting children today: The legal transactions precede and under gird the growth of family feelings. Praise God that he give us both legal standing as his children and the very Spirit of his Son so that we find ourselves saying from a heart of deep conviction, “Abba, Father.” By John Piper Chancellor of Bethlehem College & Seminary.

“And the Lord said unto me: Marvel not that all mankind, yea, men and women, all nations, kindreds, tongues and people, must be born again; yea, born of God, changed from their carnal and fallen state, to a state of righteousness, being redeemed of God, becoming his sons and daughters; 26 And thus they become new creatures; and unless they do this, they can in nowise inherit the kingdom of God.” The Book of Mosiah Chapter 27:25-26

People think it a privilege to see a royal personage, and thousands go great distances to see one. How much greater privilege it is to be sons and daughters of the Most High. What greater privilege could be conferred on us than to be given entrance into the royal family? In order to become the sons and daughters of God, we must separate from the world. “Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? And what communion hath light with darkness? In other words, to be a son and daughter of God, you must will to walk in line with Gods will. 

The Bible says, "And what concord (fellowship) hath Christ with Belial? Or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel? And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? For ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you. And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty." 2 Corinthians 6:14-18

There is a heaven before us, a crown of life to win. But to the overcomer only is the reward given. He who gains heaven must be clothed with the robe of righteousness. “Every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure.” In the character of Christ there was no discord of any kind. And this must be our experience. Our lives must be controlled by the principles that controlled His life.

Through the perfection of the sacrifice given for the guilty race, those who believe in Christ, coming unto Him, may be saved from eternal ruin....

The word of God helps us see that those who are led by the Spirit of God are the sons and daughters of God. Because the Spirit they received does not make them slaves, so that they may live in fear again; rather, the Spirit they received brought about their adoption to sonship. And by Him they cry, “Abba, Father.” And by this, “The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children. Now if we are children, then we are heirs—heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory.” Romans 8:14-17. Soon God shall say, “I will say to the north, Give up, and to the south, Keep not back; bring My sons from far, and My daughters from the ends of the earth; bring forth the blind people, and they shall have eyes; the deaf, and they shall have ears.” Isaiah 43:6, 8

Finally, God’s Message for the family of Jacob, is the same God of which is gave to Abraham: “No longer will Jacob hang his head in shame, no longer grow gaunt and pale with waiting. For he’s going to see his children, my personal gift to him—lots of children. And these children will honor me by living holy lives. In holy worship they’ll honor the Holy One of Jacob and stand in holy awe of the God of Israel. Those who got off-track will get back on-track, and complainers and whiners learn gratitude.” Isaiah 29:22-24. The Message Bible

“While it costs us a lot to adopt children, it cost God the blood of His own Son.” - Rick Morton and Tony Merida, Orphanology. Let no one be so deluded by the enemy as to think that it is a condescension for any man, however talented or learned or honored, to accept Christ. Every human being should look to heaven with reverence and gratitude, and exclaim with amazement, “Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God.”

A prayerful moment: Lord, help me to value my heritage in thee this day. Amen

Song of the day: Walkin' That Line by Acappella

Why not tune in to our newest ministry. It’s called, (YOU AND THE WORD). You can see YOU AND THE WORD on Facebook live every Friday evening from 7 o’clock, Eastern Standard Time, or 8 o’clock in Bermuda. YOU AND THE WORD is an open Bible study that comes to you on Fridays evenings. Or just message me by name on facebook at Kevin Santucci for more information and Bible lessons. This open Bible study is open to ALL.

Thank you for your prayers for this ministry, and may the blessings of the Lord rest on you, and your family always. If you have a comment, write to  comments  

Blessings, Blessing, Blessings

Garden Ministry Devotionals are written by Chaplain Kevin J.T. Santucci

Do you have questions that have not been answered? Would you like to know more about the God of the Universe? Then contact us at Garden Ministry. We would love to connect with you. Email us your questions today!

If you know of ten persons who need a word of encouragement, forward this to them today: https://gardenministry.blogspot.com/ 

A Change Is Gonna Come

Good day Colleagues,

To those of you who understand the Jewish festivals, Happy Passover Week-end to you. Today opens to all of us, a new day. Better still, it’s a great day to be alive and set our dreams on the waters of life.

                                          Speaking on the Times:

“Our time belongs to God. Every moment is His, and we are under the most solemn obligation to improve it to His glory. Of no talent He has given will He require a more strict account than of our time.

The value of time is beyond computation. Christ regarded every moment as precious, and it is thus that we should regard it. Life is too short to be trifled away. We have but a few days of probation in which to prepare for eternity. We have no time to waste, no time to devote to selfish pleasure, no time for the indulgence of sin. It is now that we are to form characters for the future, immortal life. It is now that we are to prepare for the searching judgment.

The human family have scarcely begun to live when they begin to die, and the world's incessant labor ends in nothingness unless a true knowledge in regard to eternal life is gained. The man who appreciates time as his working day will fit himself for a mansion and for a life that is immortal. It is well that he was born.

We are admonished to redeem the time. But time squandered can never be recovered. We cannot call back even one moment. The only way in which we can redeem our time is by making the most of that which remains, by being co-workers with God in His great plan of redemption.

In him who does this, a transformation of character takes place. He becomes a son of God, a member of the royal family, a child of the heavenly King. He is fitted to be the companion of the angels.

Now is our time to labor for the salvation of our fellow men. There are some who think that if they give money to the cause of Christ, this is all they are required to do; the precious time in which they might do personal service for Him passes unimproved. But it is the privilege and duty of all who have health and strength to render to God active service. All are to labor in winning souls to Christ. Donations of money cannot take the place of this.

Every moment is freighted with eternal consequences. We are to stand as minute men, ready for service at a moment's notice. The opportunity that is now ours to speak to some needy soul the word of life may never offer again. God may say to that one, "This night thy soul shall be required of thee," and through our neglect he may not be ready. (Luke 12:20.) In the great judgment day, how shall we render our account to God?

Life is too solemn to be absorbed in temporal and earthly matters, in a treadmill of care and anxiety for the things that are but an atom in comparison with the things of eternal interest. Yet God has called us to serve Him in the temporal affairs of life. Diligence in this work is as much a part of true religion as is devotion. The Bible gives no indorsement to idleness. It is the greatest curse that afflicts our world. Every man and woman who is truly converted will be a diligent worker.

Upon the right improvement of our time depends our success in acquiring knowledge and mental culture. The cultivation of the intellect need not be prevented by poverty, humble origin, or unfavorable surroundings. Only let the moments be treasured. A few moments here and a few there, that might be frittered away in aimless talk; the morning hours so often wasted in bed; the time spent in traveling on trams or railway cars, or waiting at the station; the moments of waiting for meals, waiting for those who are tardy in keeping an appointment—if a book were kept at hand, and these fragments of time were improved in study, reading, or careful thought, what might not be accomplished. A resolute purpose, persistent industry, and careful economy of time, will enable men to acquire knowledge and mental discipline which will qualify them for almost any position of influence and usefulness.

It is the duty of every Christian to acquire habits of order, thoroughness, and dispatch. There is no excuse for slow bungling at work of any character. When one is always at work and the work is never done, it is because mind and heart are not put into the labor. The one who is slow and who works at a disadvantage should realize that these are faults to be corrected. He needs to exercise his mind in planning how to use the time so as to secure the best results. By tact and method, some will accomplish as much in five hours as others do in ten. Some who are engaged in domestic labor are always at work not because they have so much to do but because they do not plan so as to save time. By their slow, dilatory ways they make much work out of very little. But all who will, may overcome these fussy, lingering habits. In their work let them have a definite aim. Decide how long a time is required for a given task, and then bend every effort toward accomplishing the work in the given time. The exercise of the will power will make the hands move deftly.

Through lack of determination to take themselves in hand and reform, persons can become stereotyped in a wrong course of action; or by cultivating their powers they may acquire ability to do the very best of service. Then they will find themselves in demand anywhere and everywhere. They will be appreciated for all that they are worth…….

Indolent, careless habits indulged in secular work will be brought into the religious life and will unfit one to do any efficient service for God. Many who through diligent labor might have been a blessing to the world, have been ruined through idleness. Lack of employment and of steadfast purpose opens the door to a thousand temptations. Evil companions and vicious habits deprave mind and soul, and the result is ruin for this life and for the life to come.

Whatever the line of work in which we engage, the word of God teaches us to be "not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord." "Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might," "knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance; for ye serve the Lord Christ." Rom. 12:11; Eccl. 9:10; Col. 3:24.” COL p. 343 - 346

Remember on this pass Easter week-end. There is nothing, save the selfish heart of man, that lives unto itself. No bird that cleaves the air, no animal that moves upon the ground, but ministers to some other life. There is no leaf of the forest, or lowly blade of grass, but has its ministry. Every tree and shrub and leaf pours forth that element of life without which neither man nor animal could live; and man and animal in turn minister to the life of tree and shrub and leaf. The flowers breathe fragrance and unfold their beauty in blessing to the world.

The ocean, itself the source of all our springs and fountains, receives the streams from every land, but takes to give. The mists ascending from its bosom fall in showers to water the earth, that it may bring forth and bud. The angels of glory find their joy in giving,--giving love and tireless watch-care to souls that are fallen and unholy; heavenly beings woo the hearts of men; they bring to this dark world light from the courts above; by gentle, patient ministry they move upon the human spirit, to bring the lost into a fellowship with Christ that is even closer than they themselves can know. God desires us to give--cheerfully, willingly, gladly. None can keep His law without ministering to others. Happiness is the gift of God to him who, in the spirit of Christ, toils for the good of others. I encourage you to pass this message on to someone today.

Song of the Day: Going back in time with a song of deep meaning: By the late Sam Cooke - A Change Is Gonna Come

LESSON OF THE DAY:

The Plan of Redemption - Subheading - Just For Me

Why not tune in to our newest ministry. It’s called, (YOU AND THE WORD). You can see it on Facebook live this evening from 7 o’clock, Eastern Standard Time, or 8 o’clock in Bermuda. YOU AND THE WORD is an open Bible study that comes to you on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays evenings.

Thank you for your prayers for this ministry, and may the blessings of the Lord rest on you, and your family always. If you have a comment, write to  comments 

Blessings, Blessing, Blessings

Garden Ministry Devotionals are written by Chaplain Kevin J.T. Santucci

Do you have questions that have not been answered? Would you like to know more about the God of the Universe? Then contact us at Garden Ministry. We would love to connect with you. Email us your questions today!

If you know of ten persons who need a word of encouragement, forward this to them today: https://gardenministry.blogspot.com/  

THE COVER UP

“He who covers his transgressions shall not prosper...” (Prov. 28:13)

There are many things in our world of which God condemns according the the word of God. Such things as when preachers cover up truths for friends in high and low areas of trust. In Ezekiel 22:28, the word of God says, “Your preachers cover up for the politicians by pretending to have received visions and special revelations. They say, "This is what God, the Master, says . . ." when God hasn't said so much as one word.”

Another is the covering up of sin in the church is all unrighteousness, such as fornication (sexual immorality), wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, debate (strife), deceit, malignity (evil-mindedness); whisperers, backbiters, haters of God, despiteful (violent), proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents, without understanding (undiscerning), covenantbreakers (untrustworthy), without natural affection (unloving), implacable (unforgiving), unmerciful, and list can go on and on and on.

But God doesn’t stop there! In Romans 1:32 He says, “who, knowing the righteous judgment of God, that those who practice such things are deserving of death, not only do the same, but also approve of those who practice them.”

God doesn’t just condemn the person doing the sin, but the leader of the church, the member, and all other parties who let it ride. With that said, I’ll love to share with you a video lecture that is said to be a documentation of the pattern of heavy metals poisoning, medical experimentation, organ harvesting, covert fertility task forces and other tactics that seek to eliminate a class of people from our planet.

Now, before you think I have lost my mind, please wait. Let us read what Hosea 4:6 (KJV) says, “My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge: because thou hast rejected knowledge, I will also reject thee, that thou shalt be no priest to me: seeing thou hast forgotten the law of thy God, I will also forget thy children.”

Further to these things, there is, “genocidal tactic being carried out in the name of science and medicine via the following vectors: Food supply (laced with infertility chemicals, confirmed by the New York Times quoting a U.S. President's science advisor.) Water supply (heavy metals poisoning, as we recently witnessed in Flint, Michigan) Medical experimentation (Tuskegee, Guatemalan prisoner experiments funded by the U.S. government, etc.) Immunization campaign (covert sterilization of young women in Africa) Cancer (disproportionately affects people of darker skin color due to vitamin D deficiency) Abortion activities that target blacks in order to harvest baby organ tissue for use in vaccines – But the truth be told, this is called medical cannibalism.” LORD HELP US!

But we are not ignorant of Satan’s devices lest he take advantage of us. 2 Corinthians 2:11. God has promised to keep His children in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on Him: because they trust in Him. Isaiah 26:3. My words to the faithful today is to put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. Ephesians 6:11

Now please take a look at the finding of what men are doing in the name of science.

Just days after the release of a jaw-dropping video lecture called the Science Agenda to Exterminate Blacks, a bombshell science paper has emerged that confirms the use of covert sterilization chemicals in World Health Organization vaccines deployed in Africa. 

https://www.naturalnews.com/2017-11-10-bombshell-science-paper-documents-the-depopulation-chemical-covertly-spiked-into-vaccines.html

The solution to this seeming difficulty is for mankind to stop rebelling against God, seek His will and stop living haughty. The follows admonition is given, “The heart is deceitful above all things, and it is exceedingly corrupt: who can know it?” Jeremiah 17:9. Only God and only He has the answers to counteract all the cover ups.

Prayer for the day: Lord help me face each day as a gift from you, that I may take it with its responsibility’s and not violate your divine law.

The lesson of the day: A CHANGE

Why not tune in to our newest ministry. It’s called, (YOU AND THE WORD). You can see it on Facebook live this evening from 7 o’clock, Eastern Standard Time, or 8 o’clock in Bermuda. YOU AND THE WORD is an open Bible study that comes to you on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays evenings.

Thank you for your prayers for this ministry, and may the blessings of the Lord rest on you, and your family always. If you have a comment, write to  comments 

Blessings, Blessing, Blessings

Garden Ministry Devotionals are written by Chaplain Kevin J.T. Santucci

Do you have questions that have not been answered? Would you like to know more about the God of the Universe? Then contact us at Garden Ministry. We would love to connect with you. Email us your questions today!

If you know of ten persons who need a word of encouragement, forward this to them today: https://gardenministry.blogspot.com/  

A BETTER DAY

Blessed are those whose way is blameless, who walk in the law of the Lord! Blessed are those who keep his testimonies, who seek him with their whole heart, who also do no wrong, but walk in his ways! You have commanded your precepts to be kept diligently. Oh that my ways may be steadfast in keeping your statutes! ... Psalm 119:1-176 ESV

Today like never before, the gospel is going throughout the world with the rapid speed. This is one of the clearest indications that Christ is coming soon. “Consider the impact of Jesus teaching in the first century and compare that to what he predicted will happen at the end of time. In the 21st-century our world has become a “global village.” The gospel is now going to all the world with a speed that would have left the apostle Paul amazed. Sophisticated satellite communication systems such as the Internet, satellite technology, interlinking computers, the World Wide Web, and mass media television, and radio communications are in reality a gift that God is using to communicate the gospel with incredible speed to the world. The technological revolution has provided a setting to rapidly spread the gospel.”

We also saw that John the revelator saw the History of God's People—“John was strengthened to live in the presence of his glorified Lord. Then before his wondering vision were opened the glories of heaven. He was permitted to see the throne of God and, looking beyond the conflicts of earth, to behold the white-robed throng of the redeemed. He heard the music of the heavenly angels and the triumphant songs of those who had overcome by the blood of the Lamb and the word of their testimony. In the revelation given to him there was unfolded scene after scene of thrilling interest in the experience of the people of God, and the history of the church foretold to the very close of time. In figures and symbols, subjects of vast importance were presented to John, which he was to record, that the people of God living in his age and in future ages might have an intelligent understanding of the perils and conflicts before them.”

“Lastly, as we reflect on the Prophecy of events just before the coming of Jesus. Let us gather hope from the Word of God that will reassure us unto that perfect day. As we prepare remember, in order for us to be over comers, “we must have a knowledge of the Scriptures in studying Prophecy. That only by this understanding we may trace down the lines of prophecy and ... see that the day is approaching, so that with increased zeal and effort we may exhort one another to faithfulness, and not give up our faith. Lose our confidence, or become impatient.”

A prayerful moment: Lord, give me the power to face today as I look to that better day.

Song of the day: Eleanor Wright - A Better Day (1986)

 

If you would like to look at the live message of “A BETTER DAY”, go to the video:

Why not tune in to our newest ministry. It’s called, (YOU AND THE WORD). You can see it on Facebook live this evening from 7 o’clock, Eastern Standard Time, or 8 o’clock in Bermuda. YOU AND THE WORD is an open Bible study that comes to you on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays evenings.

Thank you for your prayers for this ministry, and may the blessings of the Lord rest on you, and your family always. If you have a comment, write to  comments 

Blessings, Blessing, Blessings

Garden Ministry Devotionals are written by Chaplain Kevin J.T. Santucci

Do you have questions that have not been answered? Would you like to know more about the God of the Universe? Then contact us at Garden Ministry. We would love to connect with you. Email us your questions today!

If you know of ten persons who need a word of encouragement, forward this to them today: https://gardenministry.blogspot.com/  

THY WORD IS LIKE FIRE

“ Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.”  Isaiah 41:10

A few years ago, a couple of man where standing around just talking. When one of them said, “If God is so good, why is the world so full of suffering?” Then another man quickly responded, “What about all this talk about living forever? How can I live forever?”

Ladies and gentlemen, these questions are relevant! In light of the times, What do Revelation's prophecies mean? What happens after we die?

What does Bible prophecy predict about the end of the world, and an end-time message that shall sound through the earth before the close of probation?

If you have never studied the Bible before, you will be amazed at how clear and powerful it is.  Even if you have opened its pages many times, you may still be surprised at how clearly the Bible speaks on topics often ignored.

GARDEN MINISTRY BIBLE STUDY OF {YOU AND THE WORD}, is designed to look at all topics of the Bible. It gives readers, and participants the opportunity to write, and shears their thoughts with an open mind so that we may have a better understanding of the will of God. This international open Bible study, also allows God's Word to answer our deepest questions and speak to our heart's deepest needs. 

Today’s lesson is the full transcript of part of the video on the bottom.

Introduction:

Matthew chapter 23-25 records Jesus‘Eschatological discourse. It is called the Olivet discourse. It was Christ purpose to give to the disciple a clear picture of what will happen to the world and to prepare his disciple to face life in understanding the future events. In the midst of this discourse Jesus said in Matthew 24:14: ―And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come.

This text is one of the most important texts in the New Testament for this passage of Jesus mentions three of the major themes of the New Testament, i.e., the Gospel, the Great Commission, and the return of Christ. Matthew 24:14 has been studied by many scholars in order to understand it better. Many have focused their studies to try to comprehend the meaning of the end in Matthew 24:14. 

What is the meaning of the end? Many interpretations have been given to the expression, the end. In this age, just prior to the second coming of Christ in the clouds of heaven, such a work as that of John [the Baptist] is to be done. God calls for men who will prepare a people to stand in the great day of the Lord. . . . In order to give such a message as John gave, we must have a spiritual experience like his. The same work must be wrought in us. We must behold God, and in beholding Him lose sight of self.

The reason why is because the storm is coming, the storm that will try every man's faith of what sort it is. Believers must now be firmly rooted in Christ or else they will be led astray by some phase of error. Today, many are neglecting the preparation so needful and were looking to the time of "refreshing" and the "latter rain" to fit them to stand in the day of the Lord and to live in His sight. 

But none could share the "refreshing" unless they obtain the victory over every besetment, over pride, selfishness, love of the world, and over every wrong word and action. We should, therefore, be drawing nearer and nearer to the Lord and be earnestly seeking the preparation necessary to enable us to stand in the battle in the day of the Lord. Let all remember that God is holy and that none but holy beings can ever dwell in the presence of a Holy God.

Let your loins be girded about, and your lights burning; and ye yourselves like unto men that wait for their Lord. Luke 12: 35, 36.

Now is the time to prepare for the coming of our Lord. Readiness to meet Him cannot be attained in a moment's time. Preparatory to that solemn scene there must be vigilant waiting and watching, combined with earnest work. So God's children glorify Him. Amid the busy scenes of life their voices will be heard speaking words of encouragement, faith, and hope. All they have and are is consecrated to the Master's service. . . .

Christ tells us when the day of His kingdom shall be ushered in. He does not say that the entire world will be converted, but that "this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come" (Matt. 24: 14). 

By giving the gospel to the world, it is in our power to hasten the coming of the day of God. Had the church of Christ done her appointed work as the Lord ordained, the whole world would before this have been warned, and the Lord Jesus would have come to the earth in power and great glory.

Two points: 

1. Ladies and gentlemen, living power must attend the message of Christ's second appearing in you. 

2. We must not rest until we see many souls converted to the blessed hope of the Lord's return. 

“The great work of the gospel is not to close with less manifestation of the power of God than marked its opening. The prophecies which were fulfilled in the outpouring of the former rain at the opening of the gospel are again to be fulfilled in the latter rain at its close.” The Great Controversy, pp. 611-612.

In the days of the apostles the message that they bore wrought a real work, turning souls from idols to serve the living God. The work to be done today is just as real, and the truth is just as much truth; only we are to give the message with as much more earnestness as the coming of the Lord is nearer. The message for this time is positive, simple, and of the deepest importance. We must act like men and women who believe it. Waiting, watching, working, praying, warning the world-- this is our work.

Today there seemed to be a great movement-- a work of revival-- going forward in many places. Gods’ people are moving into line, responding to God's call. My brethren, the Lord is speaking to us. Shall we not heed His call? Shall we not trim our lamps, and act like men who look for their Lord to come?

An understanding of the hope of Christ's second coming is the key that unlocks all the history that follows, and explains all the future lessons.

What biblical lesson can we draw from Enoch? “And Enoch also, the seventh from Adam, prophesied of these, saying, Behold, the Lord cometh with ten thousands of his saints” (Jude 14).... The doctrine of Christ's coming was made known at this early date to the man who walked with God in continual communion. The godly character of this prophet is to represent the state of holiness to which the people of God must attain who expects to be translated to heaven.

The slaying of the Passover lamb was a shadow of the death of Christ. Says Paul: “Christ our Passover is sacrificed for us.” 1 Corinthians 5:7. The sheaf of first fruits, which at the time of the Passover was waved before the Lord, was typical of the resurrection of Christ. Paul says, in speaking of the resurrection of the Lord and of all His people: “Christ the first fruits; afterward they that are Christ's at His coming.” 1 Corinthians 15:23. Like the wave sheaf, which was the first ripe grain gathered before the harvest, Christ is the first fruits of that immortal harvest of redeemed ones that at the future resurrection shall be gathered into the garner of God.

Good News—The gospel message proclaimed by Christ's disciples was the announcement of His first advent to the world. It bore to men the good tidings of salvation through faith in Him. It pointed forward to His second coming in glory to redeem His people, and it set before men the hope, through faith and obedience, of sharing the inheritance of the saints in light. This message is given to men today, and at this time there is coupled with it the announcement of Christ's second coming as at hand. The signs which He Himself gave of His coming have been fulfilled, and by the teaching of God's Word we may know that the Lord is at the door.

John in the Revelation foretells the proclamation of the gospel message just before Christ's second coming. He beholds an angel flying “in the midst of heaven, having the everlasting gospel to preach unto them that dwell on the earth, and to every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people, saying with a loud voice, Fear God, and give glory to Him; for the hour of His judgment is come.” Revelation 14:6, 7

In the prophecy this warning of the judgment, with its connected messages, is followed by the coming of the Son of man in the clouds of heaven. The proclamation of the judgment is an announcement of Christ's second coming as at hand. And this proclamation is called the everlasting gospel. Thus the preaching of Christ's second coming, the announcement of its nearness, is shown to be an essential part of the gospel message.

The Prayer Jesus Taught—“Thy kingdom come.” Matthew 6:10. God is our Father, who loves and cares for us as His children; He is also the great King of the universe. The interests of His kingdom are our interests, and we are to work for its up building.

The Disciples of Christ were looking for the immediate coming of the kingdom of His glory, but in giving them this prayer Jesus taught that the kingdom was not then to be established. They were to pray for its coming as an event yet future. But this petition was also an assurance to them. While they were not to behold the coming of the kingdom in their day, the fact that Jesus bade them pray for it is evidence that in God's own time it will surely come.

The kingdom of God's grace is now being established, as day by day hearts that have been full of sin and rebellion yield to the sovereignty of His love. But the full establishment of the kingdom of His glory will not take place until the second coming of Christ to this world. “The kingdom and dominion, and the greatness of the kingdom under the whole heaven,” is to be given to “the people of the saints of the Most High.” Daniel 7:27. They shall inherit the kingdom prepared for them “from the foundation of the world.” Matthew 25:34. And Christ will take to Himself His great power and will reign.

The heavenly gates are again to be lifted up, and with ten thousand times ten thousand and thousands of thousands of holy ones, our Saviour will come forth as King of kings and Lord of lords. Jehovah Immanuel “shall be king over all the earth: in that day shall there be one Lord, and His name one.” “The tabernacle of God” shall be with men, “and He will dwell with them, and they shall be His people, and God Himself shall be with them, and be their God.” Zechariah 14:9; Revelation 21:3.

But before that coming, Jesus said, “This gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations.” Matthew 24:14. His kingdom will not come until the good tidings of His grace have been carried to all the earth. Hence, as we give ourselves to God, and win other souls to Him, we hasten the coming of His kingdom. Only those who devote themselves to His service, saying, “Here am I; send me” Isaiah 6:8, to open blind eyes, to turn men “from darkness to light and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins and inheritance among them which are sanctified” Acts 26:18—they alone pray in sincerity, “Thy kingdom come.”

As Christ ascend on that day. His hands where outstretched to bless His disciples, and a cloud of angels received Him and hid Him from their sight. As the disciples looked with straining eyes for the last glimpse of their ascending Lord, two angels from the rejoicing throng stood by them and said, “Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? This same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven. Acts 1:11

The disciples were filled with great joy. Over and over again they repeated the words Christ had spoken to them in His last lessons, as recorded in the fourteenth, fifteenth, sixteenth, and seventeenth chapters of John; and every one had something to say about the instruction, especially with regard to the words of the fourteenth of John. As they went back to their homes, the promise that He would come again, and the thought that He had left them His peace, filled their hearts with joy.

As John saw the history of God's People many years later, he was strengthened. Before his wondering vision were opened the glories of heaven. He was permitted to see the throne of God and, looking beyond the conflicts of earth, to behold the white-robed throng of the redeemed. He heard the music of the heavenly angels and the triumphant songs of those who had overcome by the blood of the Lamb and the word of their testimony. In the revelation given to him there was unfolded scene after scene of thrilling interest in the experience of the people of God, and the history of the church foretold to the very close of time. In figures and symbols, subjects of vast importance were presented to John, which he was to record, that the people of God living in his age and in future ages might have an intelligent understanding of the perils and conflicts before them.

Prophecy Reassures

We must have a knowledge of the Scriptures, that we may trace down the lines of prophecy and ... see that the day is approaching, so that with increased zeal and effort we may exhort one another to faithfulness, and not give up our faith? lose our confidence? Or become impatient? No, no. We will not think of such a thing.... See how the specifications of the prophecies have been and are fulfilling. Let us lift up our heads and rejoice, for our redemption draweth nigh. It is nearer than when we first believed. Shall we not wait patiently, filled with courage and faith? Shall we not make ready a people to stand in the day of final reckoning?”

Friends as you read Gods’ Promises, it gives you courage. More than eighteen hundred years have passed since the Saviour gave the promise of His coming. Throughout the centuries His words have filled with courage the hearts of His faithful ones. The promise has not yet been fulfilled; ... but none the less sure is the word that has been spoken.”

Our Work

What is our work? The same as that given to John the Baptist, of whom we read: "In those days came John the Baptist, preaching in the wilderness of Judea, and saying, Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. For this is he that was spoken of by the prophet Esaias, saying, The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make His paths straight." Matthew 3:1-3.

All who are truly engaged in the work of the Lord for these last days will have a decided message to bear. Read the first few verses of the fortieth chapter of Isaiah:

"The voice of him that crieth in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make straight in the desert a highway for our God. Every valley shall be exalted, and every mountain and hill shall be made low: and the crooked shall be made straight, and the rough places plain: and the glory of the Lord shall be revealed, and all flesh shall see it together: for the mouth of the Lord hath spoken it." Isaiah 40:3-5.

"The voice said, Cry. And he said, What shall I cry? All flesh is grass, and all the goodliness thereof is as the flower of the field: the grass withereth, the flower fadeth: because the Spirit of the Lord bloweth upon it: surely the people is grass. The grass withereth, the flower fadeth: but the word of our God shall stand forever." Verses 6-8.

This chapter is filled with instruction appropriate for us at this time. The word of the Lord to us is: "Repent ye; prepare the way of the Lord."

We are to continue to press into the regions beyond, where the people are in spiritual darkness. Every valley shall be exalted, and every mountain and hill shall be made low: and the crooked shall be made straight, and the rough places plain." Verse 4. Every obstacle to the redemption of God's people is to be removed by the opening of His word and the presentation of a plain "Thus saith the Lord." The true light is to shine forth; for darkness covers the earth, and gross darkness the people. The truth of the living God is to appear in contrast with error. Proclaim the glad tidings. We have a Saviour who has given His life that those who believe in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

He says to all His children today, “ Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.”  Isaiah 41:10

"Obstacles to the advancement of the work of God will appear; but fear not. To the omnipotence of the King of kings, our covenant-keeping God unites the gentleness and care of a tender shepherd. Nothing can stand in His way. His power is absolute, and it is the pledge of the sure fulfillment of His promises to His people. He can remove all obstructions to the advancement of His work. He has means for the removal of every difficulty that those who serve Him and respect the means He employs may be delivered. His goodness and love are infinite, and His covenant is unalterable."

The plans of the enemies of His work may seem to be firm and well established, but He can overthrow the strongest of these plans, and in His own time and way He will do this, when He sees that our faith has been sufficiently tested and that we are drawing near to Him and making Him our counselor.

In the darkest days, when appearances seem so forbidding, fear not. Have faith in God. He is working out His will, doing all things well in behalf of His people. The strength of those who love and serve Him will be renewed day by day. His understanding will be placed at their service, that they may not err in the carrying out of His purposes.

There is to be no despondency in God's service. Our faith is to endure the pressure brought to bear upon it. God is able and willing to bestow upon His servants all the strength they need. He will more than fulfill the highest expectations of those who put their trust in Him. He will give them the wisdom that their varied necessities demand.

Said the tried apostle Paul: "He said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for My strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong." 2 Corinthians 12:9, 10.

My brothers and sisters, ladies, and gentleman, hold the beginning of your confidence firm unto the end. The light of God's truth is not to be dimmed. It is to shine amidst the darkness of error that enshrouds our world. The word of God is to be opened to those in the high places of the earth, as well as to those in the lower parts of the earth.

The church of Christ is God's agency for the proclamation of truth; she is empowered by Him to do a special work; and if she is loyal to God, obedient to His commandments, there will dwell within her the excellence of divine power. If she will honor the Lord God of Israel, there is no power that can stand against her. If she will be true to her allegiance, the forces of the enemy will be no more able to overpower her than is the chaff to resist the whirlwind.

There is before the church the dawn of a bright, glorious day, if she will put on the robe of Christ's righteousness, withdrawing from all allegiance to the world.

The members of the church need now to confess their backslidings and press together. My brethren, allow nothing to come in that will separate you from one another or from God. Talk not of differences of opinion, but unite in the love of the truth as it is in Jesus. Come before God, and plead the shed blood of the Saviour as a reason why you should receive help in the warfare against evil. You will not plead in vain. As you draw near to God, with heartfelt contrition and in full assurance of faith, the enemy who seeks to destroy you will be overcome.

Turn to the Lord, ye prisoners of hope. Seek strength from God, the living God. Show an unwavering, humble faith in His power and His willingness to save. From Christ is flowing the living stream of salvation. He is the Fountain of life, the Source of all power. When in faith we take hold of His strength, He will change, wonderfully change, the most hopeless, discouraging outlook. He will do this for the glory of His name.

God calls upon His faithful ones, who believe in Him, to talk courage to those who are unbelieving and hopeless. May the Lord help us to help one another and to prove Him by living faith. "Sing aloud unto God our strength: make a joyful noise unto the God of Jacob. Take a psalm, and bring hither the timbrel, the pleasant harp with the psaltery." Psalm 81:1, 2.

"It is a good thing to give thanks unto the Lord, and to sing praises unto Thy name, O Most High: to show forth Thy loving kindness in the morning, and Thy faithfulness every night, upon an instrument of ten strings, and upon the psaltery; upon the harp with a solemn sound. For Thou, Lord, hast made me glad through Thy work: I will triumph in the works of Thy hands." Psalm 92:1-4.

"O come, let us sing unto the Lord: let us make a joyful noise to the Rock of our salvation. Let us come before His presence with thanksgiving, and make a joyful noise unto Him with psalms. For the Lord is a great God, and a great King above all gods. In His hand are the deep places of the earth: the strength of the hills is His also. The sea is His, and He made it: and His hands formed the dry land. O come, let us worship and bow down: let us kneel before the Lord our Maker." Psalm 95:1-6.

"O sing unto the Lord a new song: sing unto the Lord, all the earth. Sing unto the Lord, bless His name; show forth His salvation from day to day. Declare His glory among the heathen, His wonders among all people. For the Lord is great, and greatly to be praised: He is to be feared above all gods." Psalm 96:1-4.

"Make a joyful noise unto the Lord, all ye lands. Serve the Lord with gladness: come before His presence with singing. Know ye that the Lord He is God: it is He that hath made us, and not we ourselves; we are His people, and the sheep of His pasture. Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, and into His courts with praise: be thankful unto Him, and bless His name. For the Lord is good; His mercy is everlasting; and His truth endureth to all generations." Psalm 100.

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Blessings, Blessing, Blessings

Garden Ministry Devotionals are written by Chaplain Kevin J.T. Santucci

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