Devotional Archive

How do we know that we love God? If you ask any Christian if they love God, I have no doubt whatsoever that they would say, without hesitation, “Yes, I love God.”

But how can you truly tell if they love God? The easiest way is to observe how they act. If they love God, they will obey His commandments. That includes more than just the 10 Commandments listed in Exodus. There are numerous commands throughout the Bible that have been penned by God’s chosen authors.

Read God’s Word and you will find this simply litmus test: “If you love me, you will keep my commandments” (John 14:15). The unmistakable message of the passage is that obedience to Christ’s commandments is both a sign and a test of our love for Him.

In the Bible, Jesus (who was God in human flesh) tells us how to love God: “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind” (Matthew 22:37). In other words, God wants us to love Him with our whole being and in every possible way. God’s own Son taught us to love God the Father with everything we are, saying this was the first and greatest of all the commandments.

God wants us to love Him exclusively above all other things and beings. Lukewarm, half-hearted, or apathetic affection for God simply won’t cut it. He wants our complete and total devotion. The simple fact is we show that we love God by keeping His commands and doing His will (John 14:15, 23; 1 John 5:3; 2 John 1:6; Psalm 40:8).

Thankfully, we have a model for loving Jesus and keeping His commandments: the love of Jesus Christ and His life of obedience to the Father (John 14:31). Obeying Christ’s commands means copying the example of Jesus (John 13:15–16). Loving Jesus is not merely a feeling; it is an active, abiding, ongoing relationship of following and obeying our loving Master: “We know that we have come to know him if we keep his commands” (1 John 2:3).

If we love God, we will obey Him. Naturally we won’t be perfect in our obedience, but our desire should be to submit to the Lord and display good works.

Those who fear God naturally want to obey Him and keep His commands. Far too many people see God’s commandments as heavy burdens—negative rules that keep us from doing what we want to do and having fun in our lives. But believers who fear God keep His commandments. Our actions match up to His instructions because we trust that He loves us and wants what is best for us (1 John 5:2–3). We have come to understand that His commands are loving instructions from a good and caring Father.

Do you love God? Does it show?.

- ALAN MURPHY

Are you doing your part? Are you helping or hindering the Lord’s work? Last week we looked at 7 ways to help the Lord’s work. And today we are going to look at 5 ways to hinder that work. What part are you playing?

How to hinder:

1. Dishonesty:

Romans 13:13 Let us walk honestly, as in the day; not in rioting and drunkenness, not in chambering and wantonness, not in strife and envying.

1 Thessalonians 4:12 That ye may walk honestly toward them that are without, and that ye may have lack of nothing.

Hebrews 13:18 Pray for us: for we trust we have a good conscience, in all things willing to live honestly.

2. Murmuring:

Numbers 14:27 How long shall I bear with this evil congregation, which murmur against me? I have heard the murmurings of the children of Israel, which they murmur against me.

Philippians 2:14 Do all things without murmurings and disputings:

3. Refuse to be humble:

1 Peter 5:6 Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time:

James 4:10 Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up.

James 4:6 But he giveth more grace. Wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble.

1 Peter 5:5 Likewise, ye younger, submit yourselves unto the elder. Yea, all of you be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble.

4. Go back in the world:

Proverbs 14:14 The backslider in heart shall be filled with his own ways: and a good man shall be satisfied from himself.

John 15:19 If ye were of the world, the world would love his own: but because ye are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you.

John 16:33 These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.

1 Corinthians 2:12 Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God.

1 Corinthians 7:32 But I would have you without carefulness. He that is unmarried careth for the things that belong to the Lord, how he may please the Lord: 33 But he that is married careth for the things that are of the world, how he may please [his] wife. 34 There is difference [also] between a wife and a virgin. The unmarried woman careth for the things of the Lord, that she may be holy both in body and in spirit: but she that is married careth for the things of the world, how she may please [her] husband. 35 And this I speak for your own profit; not that I may cast a snare upon you, but for that which is comely, and that ye may attend upon the Lord without distraction.

James 4:4 Ye adulterers and adulteresses, know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God.

1 Peter 5:7 Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you. 8 Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: 9 Whom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world. 10 But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle [you].

2 Peter 2:20 For if after they have escaped the pollutions of the world through the knowledge of the Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, they are again entangled therein, and overcome, the latter end is worse with them than the beginning.

5. Love to have preeminence “Yeah Me”:

3 John 1:7 Because that for his name's sake they went forth, taking nothing of the Gentiles. 8 We therefore ought to receive such, that we might be fellowhelpers to the truth. 9 I wrote unto the church: but Diotrephes, who loveth to have the preeminence among them, receiveth us not. 10 Wherefore, if I come, I will remember his deeds which he doeth, prating against us with malicious words: and not content therewith, neither doth he himself receive the brethren, and forbiddeth them that would, and casteth [them] out of the church.

Colossians 1:18 And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence.

Let’s face the facts as they are. We all have a tendency, from time to time, to put ourselves first. The key is to recognize that and turn from it. Only one deserves the top position in our lives. Only one deserves to have dominance in our lives. Only one deserves to have supremacy over all things. That one is our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

It’s not about “ME,” it has never been about “ME.” It is about “HIM.” To Him alone be the glory.

- ALAN MURPHY

Are you doing your part? Are you helping or hindering the Lord’s work? We all have a part to play in the advancement of the Lord’s work. This is going to be a two part devotional.

The first part is 7 ways to help the Lord’s work. And part two is 5 ways to hinder that work. What part are you playing?

How to help:

1. Prayer: It is our responsibility to prayer for those who need it. It is our job to pray and to support our brothers and sisters. It is our job to pray for our pastor and his family. It is our duty to pray for our local church and our communities. Never underestimate the power of prayer.

2 Cor 1:11 Ye also helping together by prayer for us, that for the gift bestowed upon us by the means of many persons thanks may be given by many on our behalf.

That was the Apostle Paul writing to the church at Corinth on behalf of Timothy and himself, thanking them for their continued prayers. Paul was recognizing the importance of prayer in the Christians life.

2. Witness: We are been given a responsibility to witness to those around us. We are to be about sharing our testimony with those around us. We have to be about the business of New Converts. Our love for Jesus should compel us to share what He has done for us and let others know that He can and will do the same things for them.

3. Promote joy: We should be constantly be stimulating joy in our fellow believers. Let’s be honest. We are not always upbeat and bubbly. We are human and we have up days and down days. Sometimes the world just beats on us relentlessly. It is in those times that we have a job to do; encourage our brethren.

4. Keep unity of spirit: We must not be divisive, leading to separation and division among our fellow believers. We have to maintain the unity of spirit with one another and within our churches. We should be reminding ourselves that we are all in this for the same reason – to list the name of Jesus. We cannot afford to let our petty differences to disrupt the church. Remember it is not about you. We are the body and the body needs all of its members in order to function properly. See Philippians 4:2

5. Encourage the front lines: There are those who are in the public eye. These would include our pastors and greeters and ushers and teachers and nursery workers and choir members. There are those who work quietly behind the scenes. These include the elders of the church, the deacons and trustees, the various church officers and members of the prayer chain. These are ALL front line workers and need encouragement on a regular basis. These folks work and work and work. When was the last time you said “Thank you” to any of them. Why not write a quick, short note to let them know that you recognize their contribution to the work of the Lord? See Romans 16:3

6. Stand up for the Truth: We must stand up for the truth at all cost. The ‘truth’ for the world today is a matter of personal interpretation. We know that is not the case. We, as Christians, have an obligation to stand up for what we KNOW is right, no matter what the world tries to tell is okay. You might hear someone say “the truth is not that black and white.” I tell you it IS that black and white. There are no gray areas when it comes to the truth. It is true or it is not, plain and simple.

7. Respond: We NEED to respond or answer His call. Jesus has things for us to do. If we listen hard enough and drown out the world, listening to the Holy Spirit inside us, we will be told what we are to do. See Acts 16:9

The Apostle Paul was called to go to Macedonia. Paul responded to that call. Paul answered the call. He and Timothy went to Macedonia as the Lord had asked.

We are to respond to that call as well. When God calls, don’t let it go to “voice-mail” and certainly don’t put Him on hold. Answer the call. He has something for you to do.

Next week we will look at the ways to hinder the Lord’s work.

- ALAN MURPHY

Some things that appear dangerous are actually much less hazardous than their safer-looking alternative. Commercial airline travel, for instance, is 30 times safer than transportation by car. It may not seem that way to the person who would rather fight rush hour traffic on the ground than ride a solitary Boeing 747 at 35,000 feet. There were seven fatal accidents in 2024, among 40.6 million flights. Being carried by tons of metal thrust through the air by huge jet engines is actually safer than being pulled along in an 8-cylinder machine that never leaves the ground.

In writing to the Roman believers, the Apostle Paul penned these words in Romans 8:39. “For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

Quite often I find it to be helpful and rather interesting to compare how Jesus and Paul approached the same subject in their teachings. Jesus was the plainspoken Shepherd and Teacher who used metaphors and illustrations familiar to His audience. Paul, on the other hand, was a theologian and rabbinic scholar who wrote and spoke in eloquent terms. Comparing their differences provides an expanded understanding of a topic that both of these men addressed.

As an example, take the topic of eternal security; both taught the same truth but expressed it in different ways. Jesus addressed it when describing Himself as the Good Shepherd (John 10). His sheep would never perish because they are secure in His and the Father’s hand (verses 28-29)—no one could “snatch” them away. Paul, on the other hand, described a long list of more than fifteen circumstances, none of which can separate believers from the love of God in Christ Jesus (Romans 8:35-39). Both Jesus and Paul taught that believers are eternally secure, using different words.

When you find yourself going through challenging times, and we all find ourselves there at one point or another, take a moment and read Jesus’ and Paul’s assuring words. Then rest secure in the love of God in Christ.

God loves you more than you will ever know this side of Heaven.

- ALAN MURPHY

There is much uncertainty in our world today. The news is filled with the evil deeds done around the globe. The economy is in a tailspin, our democracy is at risk, our leaders are corrupt, terrorists want to kill us, global warming will destroy the world, and the list just keeps going and going. There seems to be no end to it all.

When the world around you seems to be reeling out of control and there is no hope in sight, heed the words penned by David…“Be still and know that I am God.”

This popular saying comes from Psalm 46:10, “Be still, and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth.”

Be still. This is a call for those involved in the war to stop fighting, to be still. The word still is a translation of the Hebrew word rapa, meaning “to slacken, let down, or cease.” In some instances, the word carries the idea of “to drop, be weak, or faint.” It connotes two people fighting until someone separates them and makes them drop their weapons. It is only after the fighting has stopped that the warriors can acknowledge their trust in God. Christians often interpret the command to “be still” as “to be quiet in God’s presence.” While quietness is certainly helpful, the phrase means to stop frantic activity, to let down, and to be still. For God’s people being “still” would involve looking to the Lord for their help (cf. Exodus 14:13); for God’s enemies, being “still” would mean ceasing to fight a battle they cannot win.

Know that I am God. Know in this instance means “to properly ascertain by seeing” and “acknowledge, be aware.” How does acknowledging God impact our stillness? We know that He is omniscient (all-knowing), omnipresent (present everywhere), omnipotent (all-powerful), holy, sovereign, faithful, infinite, and good. Acknowledging God implies that we can trust Him and surrender to His plan because we understand who He is.

When we are still and surrendered to God, we find peace even when the earth gives way, the mountains fall (verse 2), or the nations go into an uproar and kingdoms fall (verse 6). When life gets overwhelming and busyness takes precedence, remember Psalm 46:1, “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.” Run to Him, lay down your weapons and fall into His arms. Acknowledge that He is God and that He is exalted in the earth. Be still and know that He is God.

In the words of the common people, when your world is falling apart and there is nothing but despair, "Shut up, stop worrying, stop complaining. Listen for that "still small voice" and know that He is God and He is in control, not you. (That's my transliteration - take it for what it's worth)

- ALAN MURPHY

And you, that were sometime alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now hath he reconciled in the body of his flesh through death, to present you holy and unblameable and unreproveable in his sight:

Colossians 1:21-22

Put another way, He has reconciled [you] in the body of His flesh through death, to present you holy, and blameless, and above reproach in His sight.

Have you ever returned home after a short absence only to discover that the family dog has gotten into the kitchen trash can or that he has chewed up a couch cushion and the stuffing is everywhere or perhaps he/she had soiled the living room carpet? When that happens, that beloved pet will often hide in a corner and not even look us in the eye. Even our pets (sometimes) know when they have “sinned”! They are full of shame and guilt. But when we “have a little talk” and welcome them back with a loving embrace, their confidence is once again restored.

Hebrews 4: 16 says, "Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need."

God has made it possible for us, His children, to “come boldly to the throne of grace” even after we have sinned: gotten into the trash, chewed up a valued cushion or soiled the carpet, so to speak. We can “draw near with confidence” in spite of our shame at having failed our Master. Why? Because Christ, by His death on the cross of Calvary, presents us “holy, and blameless, and above reproach in His sight” (Colossians 1:22). When we sin, if we confess our sin, God is “faithful and just to forgive us” (1 John 1:9).

If you have sinned, no matter how big or small, don’t hide in the corner. Go with confidence to God and be forgiven, cleansed, and restored. In Romans 5:8, the Apostle Paul reminds us,”But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.”

Yeah, I did it again, my favorite two little words: “But God.” Couldn’t help myself.

- ALAN MURPHY

Many a Christian has gone through unspeakable heartache. Perhaps it was a miscarriage or the loss of a child. Maybe it was total financial ruin. It might have been the loss of a career just weeks before retirement. You can add to that list, I’m sure.

In her book “Friend-ish,” Kelly Needham writes of a difficult time in her life as she grappled with her third miscarriage. One night shortly afterward, she and her friend Abbey were in their church’s prayer room at the same time. “When she asked me how I was, something inside me broke. I don’t remember what she said to me or what she prayed for me,” Kelly wrote. “I just cried. I’ve never cried so hard in front of anyone the way I did with her that night. Her arm around my shoulder and her simple presence in that hard place was a balm to my soul. It was so sweet that words fail to do it justice. I’ll never forget it. The Lord met me that night through her.”

Jackie Robinson was the first black to play major league baseball. Breaking baseball's color barrier, he faced jeering crowds in every stadium. While playing one day in his home stadium in Brooklyn, he committed an error. The fans began to ridicule him. He stood at second base, humiliated, while the fans jeered. Then, shortstop Pee Wee Reese came over and stood next to him. He put his arm around Jackie Robinson and faced the crowd. The fans grew quiet. Robinson later said that arm around his shoulder saved his career.

The Apostle Paul wrote, in Romans 12:15, “Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep.”

What a blessing to have Christian friends to encourage and support us as we serve Christ! Our loads are too heavy to carry alone, and we need someone to rejoice and to weep with us. It begins when we make ourselves available to rejoice and weep with someone needing us. Today the Lord may bring across your path someone needing your simple presence.

Be there!

- ALAN MURPHY

Backsliding is not an instantaneous event. It is subtle and it starts out very slowly. It is a gradual, methodical progression. And it all starts when we stop paying attention to God’s Word. It comes from a desire to do things our own way and in our own time. You can read the pattern in Psalm 81.

God’s Word is slowly but surely transformed from commands to suggestions. We just gradually stop obeying God. We stop submitting our lives to God. God’s will for our lives is suddenly open to change and becomes conditional on our own will.

It often starts by skipping an occasional Wednesday evening service because that’s the night of the play-offs, or it’s League Night, or any number of other feeble excuses. Then it progresses to missing one or two Sunday evening services a month. Next thing you know it is one or two or more Sunday Morning Services are missed. And it progresses from there to the point that we stop reading God’s Word and only attend church services a couple times a month or even worse only a couple time a year – Easter and Christmas.

Backsliders were, at one time, devoted followers of God, but have stopped. Sadly they start to do those things that they instinctively know are wrong. They hang with the wrong people, they go to the wrong places, they listen to the wrong music, they read the wrong books, they watch the wrong TV programs and they simply do the wrong things. After that, they put away the things of God all together; they stop going to church, they stop reading their Bible and they, sadly, stop praying.

God does not force us to trust Him. He doesn’t force us to obey Him, He doesn’t force us to serve or love Him. God has granted us free will. And when our free will gets in the way of God’s will, we stop serving God and start serving ourselves. When we stop seeking the counsel of God, we will follow the counsel of our own hearts and start doing what we think we want and should do.

2 Chronicles 7:14 says, “If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.”

Don’t give into the temptations of the devil, resist him and he will flee from you. Stay strong. God has a plan for you.

- ALAN MURPHY

Sometime ago there was an article in Outside magazine that listed the best running tips of all time, based on forty years of previously published articles. Among the many suggestions were, 1- Strengthen your whole body; don’t just focus on your legs. 2- Run more hills; it’s good for your hips. 3- Find a routine, then stick to it—maybe even down to wearing the same clothing. And 4- Take recovery days seriously.

That’s great advice for the spiritual race that we are in. The Apostle Paul uses the "race" often in his writings. In the 1st century, the Romans celebrated both the Olympic Games and the Isthmian Games. Competitors would spend up to ten months in arduous physical training.

In 1 Corinthians 9:24, Paul wrote, “Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain.”

Because the Corinthians were very familiar with these events, Paul used the games as an analogy for a believer’s life of faithfulness. He wrote the church in Corinth saying, “Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize. Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last; but we do it to get a crown that will last forever” (1 Corinthians 9:24-25). Paul’s exhortation is that believers should be as focused and dedicated as those ancient runners in the games. Our motivation in serving Christ is much higher; we “run” not for a temporary crown, but for an eternal one.

In his letter to Timothy, Paul is not commending himself for having “run the full distance”, rather, he is simply describing what the grace of God had enabled him to do. In the book of Acts, Paul says these powerful words: “I consider my life worth nothing to me, if only I may finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me—the task of testifying to the gospel of God’s grace” (Acts 20:24).

All those suggestions found in the Outside article are true spiritually. In running the race, we need to train ourselves—body, soul, and spirit. Don’t be afraid of the hill ahead. Establish your spiritual routines and stick with them. And learn to rest and recover in Jesus.

Our daily walk with God is much like a race, which we have got to be prepared to run and to be aware of any challenges that may obstruct our success. A race that is run well has great rewards. We will see Christ one day, so don’t lose heart about today. Look with faith toward the finish line. Remember God has our future in His secure and mighty hands.

Every believer runs his own race (1 Corinthians 9:24). Each of us is enabled to be a winner. Paul exhorts us to “run in such a way as to get the prize,” and to do this we must set aside anything that might hinder us from living and teaching the gospel of Christ. The writer of Hebrews echoes the words of Paul: “Lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith” (Hebrews 12:1-2).

May we be diligent in our “race,” may we keep our eyes on the goal, and may we, like Paul, finish strong.

- ALAN MURPHY

Since we just celebrated Christmas last month, I thought you might find it interesting to look at a few people in Jesus’ bloodline. The complete family line is found in Matthew chapter 1. Verses 1 – 17 give Jesus’ human heredity and verses 18 – 25 give Jesus’ divine heredity. It is important to remember that genealogy was very important to the Jews. It was used to prove which of the Tribes a person was from and it was used to determine rights of inheritance.

With that in mind, I would like to look at 4 women who are in Jesus’ direct bloodline. Keep in mind, also, that women were not thought very highly of in those days and were actually considered as cattle, something to be owned. They would not own businesses or be in positions of prominence.

The first is Tamar. Matthew 1:3. You can read up on her in Genesis Chapter 38, if you are not real familiar with the story. Short story, Tamar was guilty of whoredom in her ploy to get pregnant and bear a son in Judah’s line. Tamar gave birth to twins: Perez and Zerah. Perez is identified in the book of Ruth as the ancestor of King David.

The next woman is Rahab. We know her story. Rahab was a harlot and had an Inn built on the walls of Jericho. When Joshua sent spies into the city, it was Rahab who hid them. When the King heard about them and came looking for them, she hid them on the roof of her house and told the king that they had left, and pointed the king in the wrong direction. Rahab had heard about the God of Israel and recognized Him as the true God and worth risking your life for. So she goes to the spies and pleads for her life. The spies tell her to hang a red cord out of her window and when they come to take the city, she and her household would be spared. According the Matthew 1:5, Salmon and Rahab has a son named Boaz (sounds familiar huh?) You can trace Salmon all the way back to Abraham. Boaz and Ruth have a son named Obed and Obed was the father of Jesse. We all know that Jesse was the father of……..David. See the connection?

You will find Ruth listed in the Faith Hall of Fame you find in Hebrews chapter 11. Rahab was saved by faith in God and the Messiah to come. Rahab, by the way, is the great, great, grand-mother of King David.

Now let’s look at woman #3. Ruth, mentioned in Matthew 1:5. Ruth is a gentile (non-Jew). In that she is a Moabite. You can read about the Moabites in Deut, chapter 23 where God excludes them from entrance into the family of God for 10 generations because of their worship of Baal instead of Jehovah. Ruth was, you guessed it, the 10th generation after leaving Egypt.

Ruth decides to stay with her mother-in-law Naomi and take her God as her own. Ruth works in the fields gathering grain after the harvesters had finished their job. The fields that she worked were owned by Boaz who is a relative of Naomi’s. Boaz takes a liking to Ruth and instructs his staff to leave a little extra grain in the corners for Ruth. Naomi encourages Ruth to seek marriage with Boaz. Boaz and Ruth are married and they have a son. His name is Obed. Obed has a son and his name is David.

This brings us to woman #4. Bathsheba. We all know this story well. Bathsheba is seduced by Kind David and she bares a son. His name is Solomon. God forgives Bathsheba, you can find that in 2 Samuel, chapter 11. If you follow Solomon’s line, you will find Matthan who was the father of Jacob, who was the father of Joseph who became the husband of Mary who brings us Jesus.

So, here we have an unlikely group of women who are directly related to Jesus. We have a woman who prostitutes herself. We have a harlot. We have a gentile. And we have an adulteress. That is quite a line up.

And what does that tell us?

It tells us that the Grace of God is for anyone. Salvation is available to all. God can use anyone. It doesn’t matter what your past is. God can use a prostitute. God can use Jew and Gentile. God can use an adulteress. God can use a murderer (Moses and Paul). God can surely use you.

And that is the main focus of Jesus’ ministry which you can find in Luke 19:10.

“For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which is lost.” Folks, there is a lost and dying world out there and they need us to tell them about Jesus and what He can do or them.

Jesus left heaven to save the likes of me and you.

- ALAN MURPHY

The end of 2024 was a ‘rat race.’ It is just so hard to wrap my head around the fact that this is 2025. What happened to the time?

As stated last time, this is the time of year that people make all sorts of resolutions for the New Year. Much of the resolution making is based on sincere desires to make ourselves better in some way. Lose some weight (big one for me), exercise more, save more, stay in better contact with friends and family and the list goes on and on. The vast majority of these resolution rarely see it to the end of the month. We abandon our resolutions faster than we can get started on them.

Let’s make this year different. Let’s resolve to make this year a year of growth in the Lord. Make it a fresh resolution to be in God’s house at every opportunity. Resolve to make God a priority and not your family. (Let’s face it…we are God’s family). Don’t skip church to spend time with family doing ‘fun’ things. You can go to the amusement park any time. The beach will be there tomorrow. That movie will be playing all week and prices are actually cheaper mid-week. Have the cook-out on Saturday instead and invite a neighbor to supper and to come with you to church the next day.

My resolution this year it to be used by the Lord for His glory and according to His will. I want to help my church grow and to reach out to the community. I resolve to be a blessing to those around me.

I want to echo the thoughts of the Apostle Paul, from Ephesians, chapter 5:

14 Wherefore he saith, Awake thou that sleepest, and arise from the dead, and Christ shall give thee light.

15 See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise,

16 Redeeming the time, because the days are evil.

17 Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord [is].

And Paul would also encourage those Christians in Colossae; Colossians chapter 4:

3 Withal praying also for us, that God would open unto us a door of utterance, to speak the mystery of Christ, for which I am also in bonds:

4 That I may make it manifest, as I ought to speak.

5 Walk in wisdom toward them that are without, redeeming the time.

6 Let your speech [be] alway with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man.

Let’s redeem our time doing the Lord’s work. Let us be about our Father’s business. Let’s be found doing His work. If the Lord should come back this year, let’s make sure that He finds us doing Kingdom work.

Here’s to a wonderfully productive 2025.

- ALAN MURPHY

Are Resolutions Biblical?

Many Christians make New Year’s resolutions to pray more, to read the Bible every day, and to attend church more regularly. These are all fantastic goals to be sure. However, these New Year’s resolutions fail just as often as the non-spiritual resolutions, because there is no power in a New Year’s resolution. Resolving to start or stop doing a certain activity has no value unless you have the proper motivation for stopping or starting that activity.

For example, why do you want to read the Bible every day? Is it to honor God and grow spiritually, or is it because you have just heard that it is a good thing to do?

Why do you want to lose weight? Is it to honor God with your body, or is it for vanity, to honor yourself?

The Bible does not speak for or against the idea of New Year’s resolutions. However, if a Christian determines to make a New Year’s resolution, what kind of resolution should he or she make?

More than simply losing weight or decluttering one’s home, believers can use the idea of making resolutions to place needed emphasis on their relationship with Jesus and strengthening their faith in God.

Making resolutions is not a biblical concept, yet the idea can help motivate Christians to be intentional about our faith in the new year. Having a set of faith-based resolutions can help Christians be mindful to put God first.

A key verse to keep in mind is what Paul said in 1 Corinthians 10:31, “… or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.”

Here’s a list of seven Bible-based New Year’s resolutions that every Christian can make and put effort into in this new year.

Resolution #1 - Spend more time with God

Matthew 14:23 says, “And when he had sent the multitudes away, he went up into a mountain apart to pray: and when the evening was come, he was there alone.”

We are instructed to model our lives after the life of Jesus. He set the perfect example for believers, and one of the things we read about Jesus doing often was setting aside time to pray and commune with our heavenly Father. As you look to set goals in the new year, consider spending more time with God. Ask God to show you how you can make more time for Him.

Resolution #2 - Connect to a church

Hebrews 10:25 is the final word on this. “Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.”

The New Testament teaches a lot about the importance of the church body and that followers of Jesus should be part of a community of believers. We need fellow brothers and sisters in Christ to hold us accountable, walk through life with us, and help us grow in our faith.

Resolution #3 - Serve regularly

1 Peter 4:10 records, “As every man hath received the gift, even so minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.”

God has equipped every believer with gifts to use, and it is our responsibility to use these God-given gifts. Our gifts build up the church and advance His kingdom. In the new year, we can seek ways to serve regularly to help others, use our gifts, and make a needed impact in the world for God’s glory.

Resolution #4 - Read your Bible

In Romans 15:4, the Apostle Paul said, “For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope.”

The Bible is a beautiful gift to humanity that reveals who God is, helps us understand our nature and His great love us, and how we can devote our hearts to God and live righteously for Him. Every day, believers should be in the word of God. It encourages, teaches, corrects, and trains. Many struggle to find the time to read the Bible and study it. In the new year, pray that reading the Bible would be a new spiritual habit you incorporate into your daily life.

Resolution #5 - Share the Gospel

In Matthew 28:19, Jesus told His disciples, “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:”

Jesus left His followers with a key mission — to make disciples in all nations by sharing the Gospel and baptizing them in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Each of us can spend time reflecting on how often we share the Gospel. In the new year, pray for opportunities to share your faith as you aim to live out the great commission by helping people come to know Jesus as their Lord and Savior.

Resolution #6 - Focus on spiritual growth

Hebrews 6:1, “Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ, let us go on unto perfection; not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works, and of faith toward God,”

God desires that we grow in our faith, not just stay spiritually immature. We grow spiritually through discipleship by being humble, resisting temptations and sinfulness, and doing the good that God has called us to do. Pray that God will reveal ways that you can become more mature in your faith. By devoting your heart to God, reading the Bible, being with other believers, and spending intentional time with God, you can grow spiritually mature in your faith this year.

Resolution #7 - Give generously

2 Corinthians 9:11, “Being enriched in every thing to all bountifulness, which causeth through us thanksgiving to God.”

God loves when we give to others! God has called His children to be cheerful givers who obediently give of their finances to further His kingdom. In the new year, you can pray about ways that you can give generously, just as God has given generously. We respond with gratefulness to all that God has provided by giving back to God as faithful givers.

New Year’s resolutions can be more than a list of new habits and changes. Followers of Jesus can look to a new year with the desire to serve God and work toward spiritual maturity. Through prayer and guidance by the Holy Spirit, believers can set resolutions that will motivate them to grow in their relationship with Jesus and have stronger faith. Resolutions can be a helpful way for Christians to make their faith a priority in the new year.

- ALAN MURPHY

God’s Word is filled to overflowing with promises. God has given us an abundance of promises. In fact, the Bible contains 8,810 promises — and 7,487 of them are God's promises made to humankind.

A promise from God is a statement we can depend on with absolute confidence. Here are 12 promises for the Christian to claim.

God's presence -- "I will never leave thee" (Heb. 13:5)

God's protection -- "I am thy shield" (Gen. 15:1)

God's power -- "I will strengthen thee" (Isa. 41:10)

God's provision -- "I will help thee" (Isa. 41:10)

God's leading -- "And when He putteth forth His own sheep, He goeth before them" (John 10:4)

God's purposes -- "I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil" (Jer. 20:11)

God's rest -- "Come unto Me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest" (Matt. 11:28)

God's cleansing -- "If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness" (1 John 1:9)

God's goodness -- "No good thing will He withhold from them that work uprightly" (Psalm 84:11)

God's faithfulness -- "The Lord will not forsake His people for His great name's sake" (1 Sam. 12:22)

God's guidance -- "The meek will He guide" (Psalm 25:9)

God's wise plan -- "All things work together for good to them that love God" (Rom. 8:28)

It is always encouraging to read the bible and look for a promise. Genesis 17:1 says, “And when Abram was ninety years old and nine, the LORD appeared to Abram, and said unto him, I am the Almighty God; walk before me, and be thou perfect.” Abram, or Abraham, had been “walking” in the land of Canaan for about 25 years when God gave this command to him. Abraham had been through a lot, yet he remained humble and obedient. God has been very precise in His promises to Abraham, however the promise of an heir had not come to pass. And God told Abraham to “…walk before me, and be thou perfect.”

Looking at the original Hebrew gives fresh insight to what God was telling Abraham. The Hebrew word translated “before me” is the word ‘panyim,’ which basically means “the face” This is the same word that is used in Exodus 20:3, “Thou shalt have no other gods before me.”

As a result, Genesis 17:1 could very well be translated, “walk looking at my face.” The passage in Exodus could likewise be translated, “Don’t let any other god get between your face and my face.”

The inference is clear. God expects us to walk in such a way that His “face”, that is to say His person, character, presence, is always “before” us so that our “walk”, that is our lifestyle or behavior, is “perfect”, (complete, whole and healthy,) with nothing inhibiting our relationship with our Creator.

So, what does this mean? It means that no matter what circumstance may come our way, if we are looking at God’s “face,” we will walk perfectly. What an amazing promise from our heavenly Father.

Rest assured, you can't break God's promises by leaning on them!

- ALAN MURPHY

Walter L. Wilson was a medical physician, pastor, and Bible student who spent much of his life collecting and analyzing the variety of "types" defined in the Bible. He was also noted for his soul winning. A subject that he wrote about in his book, ‘Strange Short Stories by the Doctor.’ He wrote, “Our Lord describes beautiful feet if they have the proper shoes. In Song of Solomon 7:1 we read, ‘How beautiful are thy feet with shoes.’ No one seems to be proud of the feet. Advertisements describe beautiful eyes and attractive teeth, but whoever read of beautiful feet. Our Lord has provided for beautiful feet by saying, ‘Your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace.’”

The beautifully shod feet of our Lord’s disciples are cautious to avoid the mud puddles of temptation and compromise. Let’s face it, there are a lot of muddy spots in this world of ours. The news today is filled with turmoil, upheaval and chaos. We rarely hear good news from the world stage. But when we share the Gospel with others, we bring them Good News that not only changes their lives today, it secures their heavenly destination as well.

Ephesians 6:11–17 instructs believers in Christ to “put on the whole armor of God” as a defense against Satan’s attacks. This armor includes the belt of truth, the breastplate of righteousness, the shield of faith, the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit. Verse 15 says, “And with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace.” The gospel of peace is the message that Jesus gave to those who trust in. It comes with the assurance from God that we are His children and nothing can snatch us out of His hands

When Satan attacks with a flaming missile of doubt, such as “If God really loved you, He wouldn’t have let this happen,” we dig our peace shoes into the turf of God’s Word and reply, “It is written: All things work together for the good to them who love God and are called according to His purpose” (Romans 8:28). When Satan stabs from behind with “Remember what you did?” we dig in more deeply and reply, “It is written: If we confess our sins He is faithful and just to forgive our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”

Dress yourself in the armor of God. Have your feet always shod with the preparation of the Gospel of Peace. Always be prepared to give an answer for the reason of the hope that is within you.

Let your feet be as beautiful as your smile as you take the Good News to others!

- ALAN MURPHY

Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. (Matthew 28:19-20)

Perhaps the most often quoted verse of Scripture, John 3:16 clearly states that the whole world is the object of God’s love. Though Jesus was sent first to the house of Israel (Matthew 15:24; Romans 1:16), it was so Israel might be readied to fulfill her role of being a “light to the Gentiles” (Isaiah 42:6; 49:6).

From the beginning, “God was in Christ reconciling the world to Himself” (2 Corinthians 5:19).

The prophet Isaiah wrote, “Behold my servant, whom I uphold; mine elect, in whom my soul delighteth; I have put my spirit upon him: he shall bring forth judgment to the Gentiles. He shall not cry, nor lift up, nor cause his voice to be heard in the street. A bruised reed shall he not break, and the smoking flax shall he not quench: he shall bring forth judgment unto truth. He shall not fail nor be discouraged, till he have set judgment in the earth: and the isles shall wait for his law. Thus saith God the LORD, he that created the heavens, and stretched them out; he that spread forth the earth, and that which cometh out of it; he that giveth breath unto the people upon it, and spirit to them that walk therein: I the LORD have called thee in righteousness, and will hold thine hand, and will keep thee, and give thee for a covenant of the people, for a light of the Gentiles; To open the blind eyes, to bring out the prisoners from the prison, and them that sit in darkness out of the prison house.” (Isaiah 42: 1 – 7)

When Israel failed to fulfill her role, Christ called out a people to take the Good News of God’s love into all the world. In His last days on earth, He commissioned His apostles to go into the world and make disciples by baptizing and teaching everything He had taught them during His time on earth. The Church in every generation has inherited that Great Commission as a responsibility to be carried out until Christ’s return.

The world today is hungry for good news. And there is no better news than “God so loved the world.” Look for a way to share that message today.

The Gospel is not a secret to be hidden away but a story to be shouted from the roof tops.

- ALAN MURPHY

We constantly talk about the gospel as ‘Good news’ or ‘good message.’

The word gospel actual comes from an Anglo-Saxon word meaning “God-story.”

The word gospel literally means “good news” and occurs 98 times in the Bible, exclusively in the New Testament. In Greek, it is the word “euaggelion,” from which we get our English words evangelist, evangel, and evangelical. The gospel is, in essence, the whole of Scripture; more narrowly, the gospel is the good news concerning Christ and the way of salvation.

The gospel involves Jesus’ death on the cross as the sin offering to fulfill the Mosaic Law’s righteous requirement. Under the Law, animal sacrifices were offered year after year as a reminder of sin and a symbol of the coming sacrifice of Christ (Hebrews 10:3–4). When Christ offered Himself at Calvary, that symbol became a reality for all who would believe. The work of atonement is now finished, and that’s great news.

The gospel also involves Jesus’ resurrection on the third day. “He was delivered over to death for our sins and was raised to life for our justification” (Romans 4:25). The fact that Jesus conquered sin and death (sin’s penalty) is good news, indeed. The fact that He offers to share that victory with us is the greatest news of all (John 14:19).

Let me share just a few other ways in which this “good news” is referenced.

In Romans 15:19, 2 Corinthians 10:14, Romans 15:29, 1 Thessalonians 3:2, and Romans 1:16, the Apostle Paul refers to it as, “the gospel of Christ.”

In Acts 20:24 we read that it is “the gospel of the grace of God.”

In Romans 10:15, Paul says it is “the gospel of peace,”

In Ephesians 1:13, Paul says, “the gospel of your salvation:”

And in 1 Timothy 1:11 and 2 Corinthians 4:4, Paul calls it, “the glorious gospel.”

The gospel is the good, great and glorious news that God loves the world enough to give His only Son to die for our sin (John 3:16). The gospel is good news because our salvation and eternal life and home in heaven are guaranteed through Christ (John 14:1–4). “He has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade. This inheritance is kept in heaven for you” (1 Peter 1:3–4).

The gospel is the good news that we, who were once enemies of God, have been reconciled by the blood of Christ and adopted into the family of God. Have you accepted Jesus’ offer of eternal life?

- ALAN MURPHY

In 2 Timothy 2:15, the apostle Paul writes, “Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth” (KJV). A more modern version reads, “Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth”. This verse emphasizes the importance of studying the Word of God and interpreting it correctly.

Here are some practical steps for how we can study and show ourselves approved unto God:

1. Prayer is essential for Bible study because it helps us to approach the Word of God with a humble and teachable spirit. When we pray before reading and studying the Bible, we are acknowledging our need for the Holy Spirit’s guidance to help us interpret and apply the Word to our lives (John 16:13).

Additionally, prayer deepens our relationship with God. As we study the Bible, we can use what we learn to inform our prayers to give praise and glory to God for who He is and what He has done for us.

2. We should set aside a time each day to read, study, and meditate on the Word of God. This could be in the morning, afternoon, or evening. The key is to be intentional and consistent. That way, we demonstrate that knowing and learning more about God is our top priority (Psalm 1:2).

When we approach the Bible, we should ask God to speak to us through His Word. We should also be open-minded and willing to learn and be challenged by what we read. This is how we grow and mature in our understanding of spiritual things.

Regular Bible reading, studying, and meditation helps us to gain a comprehensive understanding of the content of Scripture.

3. To interpret the Bible correctly, we should consider the literal, grammatical, historical, and artificial or synthetic contexts of the passage in question. The literal context is what the passage plainly says. The grammatical context is the immediate sentence and paragraph within which a word or phrase is found. The historical context is the events narrated, to whom the passage is addressed, and how it was understood at that time. The synthetic context involves comparing the passage being studied with other parts of Scripture.

For example, when studying the New Testament, we should consider the sociopolitical climate of the Roman Empire. We should also consider the socioreligious culture of the Jewish people. This background information can help us understand the original meaning of the text and how it applies to our lives today. In short, context is everything.

4. We should use reliable resources to help us interpret difficult passages and gain insight into the meaning of the text. These resources can include Bible commentaries, dictionaries, and concordances. We must choose resources that are based on sound biblical scholarship and align with the truth of God’s Word.

These resources should not replace the Bible as our primary source of information (John 17:17; 2 Timothy 3:16). They should instead be used as a supplement to Bible reading and study.

5. The goal of Bible study is not just to gain information but to glorify God with our thoughts, feelings, and actions: “Whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God” (1 Corinthians 10:31; cf. Romans 12:1). We want to be doers of the Word, and not hearers only (James 1:22).

Bible study is essential for our spiritual growth and maturation. It requires consistent reading, prayer, understanding context, using reliable resources, and application. As we study the Bible, we will discover more about God and how we can better serve Him and others. It also helps us to distinguish truth from error, overcome trials, deepen our relationship with God, and become better witnesses for Christ in the world. By following these steps, we can study to show ourselves approved before God.

- ALAN MURPHY

Is the Bible really God’s Word?

That is a question that has plagued many over the years and it is still a subject of much debate. The answer to this question will not only determine how we view the Bible and its importance to our lives, but it will also have an eternal impact on us.

If the Bible is truly God’s Word, then we should cherish it, study it, obey it, and fully trust it. If the Bible is truly the Word of God, then it is the final authority for all matters of faith, practice, and morality. If the Bible is the Word of God, then to dismiss it is to dismiss God Himself.

How can we know that the Bible is the Word of God and not just a good book? What is unique about the Bible that sets it apart from all other books ever written? One internal evidence that the Bible is truly God’s Word is its unity. Even though it is really sixty-six individual books, written on three continents, in three different languages, over a period of approximately 1,500 years, by more than 40 authors who came from many walks of life, the Bible remains one unified book from beginning to end without contradiction. This unity is unique from all other books and is evidence of the divine origin of the words that God moved men to record.

Because the Bible details historical events, its accuracy is subject to verification like any other historical document. Through archaeological evidence and extrabiblical writings, the historical accounts of the Bible proved time and again to be accurate and true. In fact, all the archaeological and manuscript evidence supporting the Bible makes it the best-documented book from the ancient world.

The Bible contains hundreds of detailed prophecies relating to the future of various nations, certain cities, and all mankind. There are over three hundred prophecies concerning Jesus Christ in the Old Testament. Not only was His lineage foretold and where He would be born, but also how He would die and that He would rise again. There simply is no logical way to explain the fulfilled prophecies in the Bible other than citing divine origin.

Evidence that the Bible is truly God’s Word is the indestructibility of the Bible. The Bible has suffered more vicious attacks and attempts to destroy it than any other book in history. From early Roman Emperors like Diocletian, through communist dictators and on to modern-day atheists, the Bible has withstood a constant onslaught from detractors. Yet it endures and is still today the most widely published book in the world.

The Bible’s authority is unlike that of any other book ever written. It’s power is seen in the way countless lives have been supernaturally transformed. Drug addicts have been cured by it, homosexuals set free by it, derelicts and deadbeats transformed by it, hardened criminals reformed by it, sinners rebuked by it, and hate turned to love by it. The Bible does possess a dynamic and transforming power that is only possible because it is truly God’s Word.

There are so many prophecies concerning Christ (over 270!) that it would take more than a few screens worth of space to list them all. Further, Jesus would have had no control over many of them such as His birthplace or time of birth. Second, the odds of one man accidentally fulfilling even 16 of these are 1 in 1045(10 ^ 45). How many is that? That is 10 followed by 45 zeros. In case you were wondering what that number is called, it is a septilliard. For comparison, there are less than 1082 (10^82) atoms in the entire universe! And Jesus, who affirmed the Bible as the Word of God, proved His reliability and deity by His resurrection (an historical fact not easily ignored).

The Bible, unique among books, has transformed countless lives and swayed whole cultures. After looking at the evidence, one can say without a doubt that God has spoken and that, yes, the Bible is truly God’s Word.

- ALAN MURPHY

Have you ever been reading something that you have read a dozen times before or perhaps a hundred times before and you notice something for the first time? It has happened to me on more than one occasion. It is always while reading my Bible. The most recent was a real eye-opener for me.

In Galatians 2:20, the Apostle Paul penned these words. “I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.”

I have read that countless times and my mind always sees if like this, “…and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God.” Maybe you have read it that way as well. But look again at what Paul wrote.

“and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.”

That is amazing. It is not my faith but Jesus’ faith. Jesus led a life of unwavering faith in His Father. He had an undying faith is God that surpasses anything you or I can imagine. He never doubted, even for a moment, that God was in control. He trusted His Father with His earthly life. That was demonstrated on the cross of Calvary.

When we (you and I) get saved, when we accept Christ as our personal Lord and Savior, when we are born-again, we receive a new life. We become a new creature. 2 Corinthians 5:17, “Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.”

The word “therefore” refers us back to verses 14-16 where Paul tells us that all believers have died with Christ and no longer live for themselves. Our lives are no longer worldly; they are now spiritual. Our “death” is that of the old sin nature which was nailed to the cross with Christ. It was buried with Him, and just as He was raised up by the Father, so are we raised up to “walk in newness of life” (Romans 6:4)

This new birth was brought about by the will of God. We did not inherit the new nature from our parents or decide to re-create ourselves anew. Neither did God simply clean up our old nature; He created something entirely fresh and unique. The new creation is completely new, brought about from nothing, just as the whole universe was created by God ex nihilo, from nothing. Only the Creator could accomplish such an act.

So, this new life we live is made possible by the faith of Jesus Christ. It is His faith that keeps us.

- ALAN MURPHY

Sadly there are far too few Christians who spend any real meaningful time in their Bible, and that is a crying shame. If we are to grow in our relationship with Christ, we must spend time in God’s Word. It is much needed food for health and joy in our spiritual lives.

Consider what King David wrote in Psalm 19:7-9, “The law of the LORD is perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple. The statutes of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart: the commandment of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes. The fear of the LORD is clean, enduring for ever: the judgments of the LORD are true and righteous altogether.”

The Apostle Peter says in 1 Peter 2:2, ‘The sincere milk of the word is for newborn babes.’ And the Apostle Paul echoes this in Hebrews 5:12-13, “For when for the time ye ought to be teachers, ye have need that one teach you again which be the first principles of the oracles of God; and are become such as have need of milk, and not of strong meat. For every one that useth milk is unskillful in the word of righteousness: for he is a babe.”

Not only are the Scriptures basic to the Christian salvation experience, they are essential in sanctification and cleansing day by day. Scripture provide daily guidance for those who will take note of their directions. Psalm 119:105 says, “Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.”

David’s marvelous testimony in Psalm 19 is shared by Paul in writing to young Timothy. In 2 Timothy 3:16 we read, “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:”

Don’t let the world keep you from getting into God’s Word. Make every effort to study your Bible and “…shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” 2 Timothy 2:15 Spend time in the Word and you’ll be surprised what you get out of it; God will speak to you through His written Word. It is how you can get to know God better and have an intimate relationship with Him.

- ALAN MURPHY

What does God hate?

At first glance, it might seem a contradiction that a God who is love can also hate. However, that’s exactly what the Bible says is true: God is love (1 John 4:8), and God hates (Hosea 9:15).

God’s nature is love—He always does what is best for others—and He hates what is contrary to His nature—He hates what is opposite of love.

No one should be surprised to learn that God does, in fact, hate some things. While He created us with the capacity to both love and hate, and we acknowledge that hatred is sometimes justified—we naturally hate things that destroy what we love. This is all part of our being created in the image of God. The fact that we are all contaminated with sin means that our love and hatred are sometimes misplaced, but the existence of the sin nature does not negate our God-given ability to love and hate. So, it is no contradiction for a human being to be able to love and hate at the same time, and neither is it a contradiction for God to be able to love and hate at the same time.

When the Bible does speak of God’s hatred, the object of His hatred is always sin and wickedness. Among the things God hates are idolatry (Deuteronomy 12:31; 16:22), child sacrifice, sexual perversion (Leviticus 20:1–23), and those who do evil (Psalm 5:4–6; 11:5). Proverbs 6:16–19 lists seven things the Lord hates: pride, lying, murder, evil plots, those who love evil, false witnesses, and troublemakers. Notice that this passage does not include just things that God hates; it includes people as well. The reason is simple: sin cannot be separated from the sinner except by the forgiveness available in Christ alone. God hates lying, yes, but lying always involves a person—a liar—who chooses to lie. God cannot judge the lie without also judging the liar.

We cannot love with a perfect love, nor can we hate with a perfect hatred. But God can both love and hate perfectly, because He is God. God can hate without sinful intent. He can hate the sinner in a perfectly holy way and still lovingly forgive the sinner at the moment of repentance and faith.

In His love for all, God has sent His Son to be the Savior. The wicked, who are still unforgiven, God hates “for their many sins, for they have rebelled” (Psalm 5:10). But—and this is important to understand—God desires that the wicked repent of their sin and find refuge in Christ. At the moment of saving faith, the wicked sinner is removed from the kingdom of darkness and transferred to the kingdom of love (see Colossians 1:13). All enmity is dissolved, all sin is removed, and all things are made new.

As believers, we should hate sin as does God. We are “sons of the light and sons of the day. We do not belong to the night or to the darkness” (1 Thessalonians 5:5). We must recognize that God has set us apart; we are “a holy nation, a people belonging to God” (1 Peter 2:9). We cannot become holy on our own, but God gives us His Holy Spirit to sanctify us (2 Thessalonians 2:13). We have His promise that He will help us in our struggle against sin (1 Corinthians 1:8).

We hate sin because it separates us from God. We hate it because it lessens our love and dulls our conscience, because it binds us and blinds us. We hate it because it grieves the Spirit of God (Ephesians 4:30). Our prayer to the Holy One is “May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ” (1 Thessalonians 5:23).

- ALAN MURPHY

Let me ask you a question. What would you do and how would you feel if you were walking down the sidewalk and suddenly there in front of you on the concrete was a crisp new $1,000 bill? There is obviously no way to determine who may have dropped it, it may have even been placed there by an unknown benefactor. Some rich soul may have left it to be a blessing to someone in need, you just don’t know. This $1,000 bill certainly now belongs to you. How would you feel? What would you do? Take a moment and think about that.

We would all have different plans for the new found resource (money). Some would pay bills with it. Some would treat themselves to some new clothes that they have needed for many months. Some would use it to purchase food. Some may treat themselves and their wife/family to a vacation. Would you tithe on that $1,000? Would you give it to Missions? You get the idea.

How would you feel? Would you be sad? Would you be melancholy? Would you be happy? Would you suddenly be depressed? Would you be relieved? Would you rejoice? Would you thank God for His provision?

Now, take that feeling and hold on to it for a moment and listen to what David wrote in Psalm 119…

161 Princes have persecuted me without a cause: but my heart standeth in awe of thy word. 162 I rejoice at thy word, as one that findeth great spoil.

To David, finding God’s Word was like finding a crisp new $1,000 bill on the ground. It should be that way for us, too. In God’s Word, you will find great treasure; treasure that mere money can never buy. The Bible is more than just a collection of well written text. The Bible is the very God-breathed words that Jesus will use to finally judge this world. God’s Word (the Bible) is truly awesome.

Have you ever looked up the word awesome? We use it today in such a flippant fashion, everything is awesome. That movie was awesome. That touchdown was awesome. That meal was awesome. That skateboarding trick was awesome. That car wreck was awesome. The sunset/sunrise was awesome. I think we use that word much too lightly. Let me step aside for just a moment and share ‘awesome’ with you.

Awesome is: overwhelming, grand, breathtaking, splendid, remarkable, amazing, astounding, humbling or fearsome. These are powerful, descriptive words.

To me God is AWESOME, God’s Word is AWESOME, the Lord Jesus Christ is AWESOME.

We have, in the Bible, wealth and knowledge and insight and direction and guidance. We have ALL we can possibly need in the Bible. Treasure it. Protect it. Use it. Love it. Share it.

When you truly love God’s Word, you will really begin to hate lying and cheating and dishonesty in all its forms. You will start to see how God views things. When you love the Word of God, you will rejoice (delight, exult, celebrate, revel, luxuriate, triumph).

Love of and trust in God’s Word will bring peace and obedience to His commandments. It will also bring about a commitment to guard the Word.

Remember what the wisest man ever said. Ecclesiastes, chapter 12 and verse 13…

13 Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man.

Solomon was a smart dude!

Treat the Bible as if you had just found a crisp new $1,000 bill.

We can’t afford to take the Bible lightly or for granted. Treasure it, love it and absorb it.

- ALAN MURPHY

Is there anything God can’t do?

Now, before you jump to an answer too quickly, think about that question for a moment.

Is there anything that God cannot do? We all know that God is all-powerful, He is omniscient, He is omnipresent, He is all-loving and all-wise. So, with that in mind, let’s look at just a few things God did that no one else could ever do.

Ø God spoke and the universe was created ex nihilo, that is to say He created everything out of nothing. Refer to Genesis, chapters 1 and 2

On a clear night, go outside and look up at the stars in the sky. Genesis 1 records that God made all of them! Imagine the power in just one star! Our sun is actually a star. There are billions of stars in our universe. God’s power and wisdom are beyond our comprehension. That is why the LORD said to Abraham in Genesis 18:14, “Is anything too hard for the LORD?” That is why the LORD said to Moses when Moses questioned how God could possibly supply meat to several million Israelites in the wilderness, “Is the LORD’s arm too short?” (Numbers 11:23).

Ø When the whole world was gone the way of evil, God destroyed the entire world by a divine Flood and miraculously saved Noah, his family and representative land-dwelling, air-breathing animals in the Ark. See Genesis, chapters 7 & 8

Man has never figured out how to control the elements like that.

Ø A world of one language instantly transformed into a world of many languages. See Genesis 11:1-9

Ø The sinful cities of Sodom and Gomorrah destroyed. Genesis, chapter 19

Only God could bring fire down from heaven.

Ø Supernatural Conception—Isaac conceived by very elderly Sarah and 100 year old Abraham. Genesis, chapter 21

Ø The ten plagues of Egypt. Exodus 7:20-12:30

Ø Red Sea divided at just the right moment; the nation of Israel passes through on DRY GROUND. The sea then violently consumes the Egyptian army. Exodus. 14:21-31

Ø Manna sent daily to feed the Israelites. Exodus, chapter 16

Ø God supplied water from a rock at Rephidim Exodus, chapter 17

Ø The Jordan River was divided so that Israel could pass over on dry ground. Joshua 3:14-17

Ø The sun and moon stayed motionless (longer day) to enable the Israelites to win a critical battle. Joshua 10:12-14

God stopped the earth’s rotation for more than a day. That is something that only God could do.

Ø Balaam’s donkey protests and speaks. Numbers 22

Ø The widow’s flour and oil increased. 1 Kings, chapter 17

Ø Elijah carried up into Heaven. 2 Kings, chapter 2

Ø The shadow of the sun goes back ten degrees on the sun. 2 Kings 20:9-11

God not only made the earth’s rotation stop, He made it reverse. We are not capable of doing that. Only God could do that.

Ø Jesus’ birth. No one has ever been born like Him and no one ever will.

Ø Healing of the blind, lame, dumb, deaf and dead throughout the bible

Look at Jesus feeding thousands with almost nothing and walking on the water and calming the sea. These are amazing things. Coming out of the grave after three days is mind-boggling.

God makes no mistakes. His perfection and greatness simply don’t allow for mistakes: “Great is the LORD and most worthy of praise; his greatness no one can fathom.” (Psalm 145:3).

So the question remains, is there anything that God cannot do?

How many say ‘no?’ Raise your hands. Come on put them up. Okay, now put them down.

The surprising answer is YES there are things that God cannot do.

God CANNOT lie. Why? Because God is truth.

God CANNOT make a mistake because He is perfect.

God CANNOT sin because He is Holy.

God CANNOT learn anything new since He is omniscient.

God CANNOT be tempted…see Jesus in the wilderness.

God CANNOT stop being God.

God CANNOT stop loving you.

God CANNOT fail.

Surely our God is an awesome God...unchanging, eternal, unlimited in power, in majesty, in knowledge, in wisdom, in love, in mercy, and in holiness.

In short, God simply cannot do anything that goes against Who He is.

- ALAN MURPHY

We (and I include myself in this group) are so quick to pass judgment on other people. We don’t even give much thought, we just jump to judgment. Why is that the case? Is it a sense of superiority? Do we really think ourselves better than others? I will leave you to answer those on your own.

There are plenty of scriptures that talk about judging. Here are just a few:

Luke 6:37 -- Judge not, and you will not be judged; condemn not, and you will not be condemned; forgive, and you will be forgiven;

Matthew 7:1-5 -- Judge not, that you be not judged. For with the judgment you pronounce you will be judged, and with the measure you use it will be measured to you. Why do you see the speck that is in your brother's eye, but do not notice the log that is in your own eye? Or how can you say to your brother, ‘Let me take the speck out of your eye,’ when there is the log in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the log out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to take the speck out of your brother's eye.

Romans 2:1-3 -- Therefore you have no excuse, O man, every one of you who judges. For in passing judgment on another you condemn yourself, because you, the judge, practice the very same things. We know that the judgment of God rightly falls on those who practice such things. Do you suppose, O man—you who judge those who practice such things and yet do them yourself—that you will escape the judgment of God?

See also: John 7:24, James 4:11-12, Galatians 6:1, James 1:26, John 8:7, 1 Kings 3:9, 1 Corinthians 11:31,

Jesus’ command not to judge others could very well be the most widely quoted of His sayings, even though it is almost invariably quoted in complete disregard of its context. Here is Jesus’ statement: “Do not judge, or you too will be judged” (Matthew 7:1). Many people use this verse in an weak attempt to silence their critics, interpreting Jesus’ meaning as “You don’t have the right to tell me I’m wrong.”

The Bible’s command that we not judge others does not mean we cannot show discernment. Immediately after Jesus says, “Do not judge,” He says, “Do not give dogs what is sacred; do not throw your pearls to pigs” (Matthew 7:6). A little later in the same sermon, He says, “Watch out for false prophets. . . . By their fruit you will recognize them” (verses 15–16). How are we to discern who are the “dogs” and “pigs” and “false prophets” unless we have the ability to make a judgment call on doctrines and deeds? Jesus is giving us permission to tell right from wrong.

Superficial judgment is wrong. Passing judgment on someone based solely on appearances is sinful . It is foolish to jump to conclusions before investigating the facts. Hypocritical judgment is wrong. When we point out the sin of others while we ourselves commit the same sin, we condemn ourselves. Harsh, unforgiving judgment is wrong. Self-righteous judgment is wrong. We are called to humility, and “God opposes the proud.” Untrue judgment is wrong. The Bible clearly forbids bearing false witness.

We are much too fast in donning the robe of a judge when we are obviously ill-prepared and unqualified to serve in that position.

Just before the death of actor W.C. Fields, a friend visited Fields' hospital room and was surprised to find him thumbing through a Bible. Asked what he was doing with a Bible, Fields replied, "I'm looking for loopholes."

Jesus requires true followers to apply His teachings first to themselves and then to others. When God reveals His truth to us, whether in Scripture or in some other way, our immediate response must be to say, “How does this apply to me? How do I appropriate this truth in my own life?” In following Jesus’ command to “judge not, that you be not judged” (Matthew 7:1), we avoid drawing conclusions that are superficial, proud, hypocritical, or self-righteous.

- ALAN MURPHY

It is said that first-century Jewish rabbis referred to wisdom as “salt”—something that is both a preservative and is tasty (attractive). A “covenant of salt” (2 Chronicles 13:5) suggested a permanent (preserved) bond between the parties involved. Jesus, as a Teacher, may have been using that same metaphor when He said, in Matthew 5:13, “Ye are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith shall it be salted? it is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men.”

There is more to salt than meets the taste buds. Salt has been used in many cultures as a valuable commodity. The word “salary” actually comes from an ancient word meaning “salt-money,” referring to a Roman soldier’s allowance for the purchase of salt. Someone who earns his pay is still, in 2024, said to be “worth his salt.” Salt has also been used to express promises and friendship between people. It was even considered by the Greeks to be divine. Today in many Arab cultures, if two men partake of salt together they are sworn to protect one another—even if they had previously been enemies. In some cultures, people throw salt over their shoulders when they make a promise. Who knew sodium chloride was so important?

In the ancient world, ingesting salt was a way to make an agreement legally binding. If two parties entered into an agreement, they would eat salt together in the presence of witnesses, and that act would bind their contract. King Abijah’s speech, mentioned earlier, in 2 Chronicles 13:5 mentions just such a salt covenant: “Don’t you know that the LORD, the God of Israel, has given the kingship of Israel to David and his descendants forever by a covenant of salt?” Here, Abijah refers to the strong, legally binding promise of God to give Israel to David and his sons forever.

The Apostle Paul wrote, “Let your speech be alway with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man.” Colossians 4:6

Paul was more than likely combining all these ideas when he wrote that Christians’ speech toward outsiders should be gracious and “seasoned with salt.” He said something similar in Ephesians 4:29, saying that our speech should be edifying and a source of grace to those who hear our words. He also warned about the opposite of such speech in Colossians 3:8—crude, carnal speech, not befitting a follower of Christ, speech neither of permanent value nor attractive.

Listen to what Peter, in his third epistle, wrote, “But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear: Having a good conscience; that, whereas they speak evil of you, as of evildoers, they may be ashamed that falsely accuse your good conversation in Christ.” 1 Peter 3: 15 – 16

How do we, Christians, talk when we are around non-believers?

Do we speak like the world, trying to fit in and not make waves? Or do we speak graciously in ways that build up our hearers? Are our words attractive, conveying love and grace? Or do our words cause division and strife?

How we speak to and around non-Christians is just as important as what we say to them.

- ALAN MURPHY

You see the signs and hear the chants…”My Body. My Choice.” That is most certainly correct. The problem seems to be that those making these broad statements don’t truly understand what they are saying.

Yes, you do have control of your body. This has been true and will continue to be true. Keep in mind that includes controlling your body so that you don’t find yourself in the position of becoming pregnant in the first place. (Birth Control) Self control.

You see, the real problem here is that you want full control over another life that you created because you lost control of your body. There is no reason to become pregnant if you don’t want to become pregnant. (I understand rape to be an exception)

If you don’t want to get pregnant and start a family, don’t engage in activities that lead to pregnancy. That’s pretty simple. Your desire for a few brief moments of physical pleasure should never result in the death of an innocent baby.

Understand that the new life inside of you is not responsible for your bad choices. There are several ways of controlling your body and preventing the forming of a new life. Failure to utilize one of these methods should not be blamed on that new “innocent” life.

That new life – it’s NOT your body – it is a new body growing inside of you. And it is a life, not just a collection of tissue. A human embryo's heartbeat can be detected as early as six weeks into gestation, or about 22 days after conception. It is at this stage, an ultrasound can detect a rhythmic heartbeat of around 110 beats per minute.

In Psalm 139:14 ,King David said, “I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvellous are thy works; …” That new life inside of you is a gift from God.

The Bible does teach that life begins at conception. Every culture’s view of when human life begins changes as society’s values, moral standards, and knowledge about the process of embryonic development change. Prior to the 1973 U.S. Supreme Court decision that allowed abortion on demand, developing embryos were considered unborn persons.

Even science tells us that human life begins at the time of conception. From the moment fertilization takes place, the child’s genetic makeup is already complete. Its gender has already been determined, along with its height and hair, eye and skin color. The only thing the embryo needs to become a fully-functioning being is the time to grow and develop.

More importantly, God reveals to us in His Word that not only does life begin at conception, but He knows who we are even before then (Jeremiah 1:5). King David said this about God’s role in our conception: "For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb . . . your eyes saw my unformed body. All the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be" (Psalm 139:13, 16).

While the world around us continually seeks to devalue the lives of the unborn, creating its own definitions of humanity based on distorted views of morality, the undeniable fact is that life begins at creation, and a human is created as soon as he or she is conceived. God is present at our creation; He is, in fact, our Creator. Our value as human beings created in His image is conceived even before we are.

- ALAN MURPHY

We are so blessed as children of God. He gives to us so abundantly and yet we often do not fully appreciate His generosity. There are two short phrases that I would like you to consider. The first is “Out of,” and the second is “According to.” Do we truly understand the depth of these words? I don’t think so.

I won’t be long, but I would like to share just a little of God’s Word on this subject.

In Matthew 12:35 we read, “A good man out of the good treasure of the heart bringeth forth good things: and an evil man out of the evil treasure bringeth forth evil things.”

And in Matthew 13:52 scripture records, “Then said he unto them, Therefore every scribe which is instructed unto the kingdom of heaven is like unto a man that is an householder, which bringeth forth out of his treasure things new and old.”

Luke 6:45, “A good man out of the good treasure of his heart bringeth forth that which is good; and an evil man out of the evil treasure of his heart bringeth forth that which is evil: for of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaketh.”

There are hundreds of references to “out of” in the Bible.

Scripture tells us in 2 Corinthians 13:10 “Therefore I write these things being absent, lest being present I should use sharpness, according to the power which the Lord hath given me to edification, and not to destruction.”

In Ephesians 1:5, the Apostle Paul would write, “Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will,”

And in Ephesians 1:7, Paul penned, “In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace;”

Ponder these as well.

Ephesians 3:16, Ephesians 4:7 and Philippians 4:19.

Meriam Webster dictionary defines “according to” as: 1: in conformity with, 2: as stated or attested by, 3: depending on

That really doesn’t give us the depth of these words. Let me give you an illustration that just might put it in a better perspective.

If Elon Musk walked into a room and handed you a signed check, with your name on it, written out for 10 million dollars, you’d be thrilled, as would any of us. That 10 million dollars is “Out of” Elon Musk’s worth. He is worth so much more than $10,000,000, thus “out of” his total worth he is giving you a limited portion. (Which I would gladly accept by the way).

Now, if Elon Musk walked into a room and handed you a signed check, with your name on it, and the amount was left blank for you to fill in, that would be “according to” Musk’s total worth. No limit has been placed.

That is the way it is with God, His mercy, His power, His love for us, His forgiveness, His grace, His riches are limitless and He offers us ALL that we need. We are not limited to just a portion of what He has, we have been given access to ALL of it, we just need to fill in the amount.

Don’t be afraid to ask for the moon. Don’t limit yourself. Don’t be afraid that you are asking too much. He wants to give to His children and His resources are limitless. Accept that ‘blank check’ from God today.

- ALAN MURPHY

As we move full speed into summer, I thought I would spend a little time talking about our call to show compassion. The Bible clearly tells us that we are to have compassion toward others. In fact it is a command from Jesus. 1 John 3:17 But whoso hath this world's good, and seeth his brother have need, and shutteth up his bowels of compassion from him, how dwelleth the love of God in him?

The Apostle Paul would write in Romans 15:1 We then that are strong ought to bear the infirmities of the weak, and not to please ourselves. And to the church at Philippi, Philippians 2:4, Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others.

Compassion is one of the characteristics that stands out the most when reading the four gospels (the life of Jesus). We often struggle to understand how Jesus could be both 100% God and 100% man, but we can identify with His humanity. We read about times when Jesus was obviously very tired and wore down from traveling around from place to place with His disciples and often having large crowds follow Him. And yet, He unwaveringly shows an amazing compassion for the lost, for the sick, and for the entire world.

Compassion is fundamental a part of spirituality. The definition of compassion is: “a feeling of deep sympathy or sorrow for another who is stricken with misfortune, accompanied by the strong desire to alleviate the suffering.”

Matthew 9:36 But when he saw the multitudes, he was moved with compassion on them, because they fainted, and were scattered abroad, as sheep having no shepherd.

Matthew 14:14 And Jesus went forth, and saw a great multitude, and was moved with compassion toward them, and he healed their sick.

Mark 6:34 And Jesus, when he came out, saw much people, and was moved with compassion toward them, because they were as sheep not having a shepherd: and he began to teach them many things.

See also: 2 Corinthians 1:3-4, Colossians 3:12-13, Deuteronomy 16:17, Zechariah 7:10, Galatians 6:2, Ephesians 4:32, 1 Peter 4:10 and 1 Peter 3:8.

If we truly want to be more Christ-like and desire to do those things which are pleasing to the Lord, can we do any less than show compassion like Jesus? Isn’t that our wish; to emulate the life of Christ? That’s what Christian means = Christ-like.

Compassion boils down to helping others who are less fortunate than ourselves. Jesus spoke about this often…

Matthew 5:16 Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.

Matthew 5:42 Give to him that asketh thee, and from him that would borrow of thee turn not thou away.

Matthew 25:35-40 35 For I was an hungred, and ye gave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me in:

36 Naked, and ye clothed me: I was sick, and ye visited me: I was in prison, and ye came unto me.

37 Then shall the righteous answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee an hungred, and fed thee? or thirsty, and gave thee drink?

38 When saw we thee a stranger, and took thee in? or naked, and clothed thee?

39 Or when saw we thee sick, or in prison, and came unto thee?

40 And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.

Luke 3:10-11 10 And the people asked him, saying, What shall we do then?

11 He answereth and saith unto them, He that hath two coats, let him impart to him that hath none; and he that hath meat, let him do likewise.

Luke 12:33-34 33 Sell that ye have, and give alms; provide yourselves bags which wax not old, a treasure in the heavens that faileth not, where no thief approacheth, neither moth corrupteth.

34 For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.

That’s why we do many of the things that we do. That is why we do the Back-to-School Backpacks, VBS, Summer Camp and other youth activities. That is one of the reasons we do the Senior Luncheons, Men’s Breakfast, Women’s Brunch and various other church functions. That is why we give to Missions.

It’s what Jesus tells us to do.

- ALAN MURPHY

What will you do when you get to heaven? Interesting question don’t you think? What will you do? Well, I can tell you this for certain, if you have not been redeemed by the blood of Jesus, you will stand before Christ and give an answer for what you did in life and hard as it is to hear, if your name is not in the Book of Life, you will be tossed into the lake of fire. That’s not my words, that’s what God says in His word. Revelation 20:15, “And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire” Also Matthew 25:41 “Then shall he say also unto them on the left hand, Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels:” Those words coming from Jesus Christ. This is serious business.

Now, if you are saved, your soul purchased by the blood of Christ, what will you do when you get to heaven? You will meet your Savior face-to-face and receive your rewards for the service that you gave to the Lord. You will be given crowns. There are many crowns mentioned specifically in scripture.

Proverbs 4:9 She shall give to thine head an ornament of grace: a crown of glory shall she deliver to thee.

Isaiah 28:5 In that day shall the LORD of hosts be for a crown of glory, and for a diadem of beauty, unto the residue of his people,

1 Peter 5:4 And when the chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of glory that fadeth not away.

1 Corinthians 9:25 And every man that striveth for the mastery is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible (crown).

1 Thessalonians 2:19 For what is our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing? Are not even ye in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at his coming?

2 Timothy 4:8 Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.

James 1:12 Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him.

Revelation 2:10 Fear none of those things which thou shalt suffer: behold, the devil shall cast some of you into prison, that ye may be tried; and ye shall have tribulation ten days: be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life.

So, the question begs, how do we obtain these crowns? Excellent question! We get these crowns through our service to the Lord. What do you do for the Kingdom? Do you witness on a regular basis? Do you win souls for Christ? Do you serve the Lord as an Usher in your local church? Are you a teacher in your church’s Sunday School program? Are you a Pastor, Associated Pastor, Youth Pastor, Worship leader or music director? Do you serve through the media department or through the dramatic programs that your church produces each year? Do you sing in the choir? Do you help keep your church clean? Do you do the lawn service for your church? Do you work in the nursery? Do you play a musical instrument in your church? Do you go out on visitation? Do you serve on any committee or hold a church office? All of these things are vital to the service of the Lord and the life and health of your church.

I believe there will be many crowns handed out in heaven. Besides those already listed, I believe there will be a crown of hospitality and a Pastor’s crown and a servant’s crown and a soul winning crown and a crown of ministry and a missionary crown and a steward’s crown and the list goes on.

After we receive these crowns, are we going to put them on display so everyone else in heaven can see what wonderful things we did for Jesus? Nope!

We are going to lay them at the feet of Jesus because nothing we could ever do for Him compares to what he has already done for those who believe. Jesus gave up His life so that we could live.

What crown(s) will you be placing at the feet of your Savior and Redeemer?

- ALAN MURPHY

Matthew 28:19–20 contains what has come to be called the Great Commission: “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.” Jesus gave this command to the apostles shortly before He ascended into heaven, and it essentially outlines what Jesus expected the apostles and us do in His absence.

The Great Commission instructs us to make disciples while we are going throughout the world. Acts 1:8, I believe, is part of the Great Commission as well: “But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.” The Great Commission is enabled by the power of the Holy Spirit. We are to be Christ’s witnesses, fulfilling the Great Commission in our cities (Jerusalem), in our states and countries (Judea and Samaria), and anywhere else God sends us (to the ends of the earth).

By the way, the word “both” means ‘at the same time.’

Do you know how to share the Good News of Christ? According to a recent Lifeway Research survey, 66 percent of all Christians “are not familiar with any ‘methods for telling others about Jesus.’” On top of that, 70 percent of the Christians interviewed “have not shared with a stranger how to become a Christian in the past six months.”

Finding the right words to say to share the Gospel can be very intimidating. But when Christians demonstrate Christ’s love to each other, the unsaved recognize a difference in us. It is through our actions that people see Christ in us. The best way to share the Gospel is your story. Tell others what Jesus did for you and how He changed your life. You don’t need to have bible verses memorized. You don’t need to know doctrine or theology. You only need to know what happened in your life as a result of accepting Christ.

Alan Murphy

Let’s face it, none of us likes to be told what to do, right? We didn’t like it as a child and we don’t like it as an adult. I mean really, who do these people think they are that go around telling us what to do all the time?

“I didn’t like it when mom and dad told me what to do. I don’t like it when my spouse tells me what to do and I sure don’t like it when a stranger tells me what to do and how to live my life.”

Sound familiar? Sorry, maybe I was typing what you have been thinking. Maybe I struck a nerve or a tender spot. Didn’t mean to. Well, actually I did. That’s the point of this message. We have to stop thinking that we have all the answers and don’t need anyone telling us how to live or what to do or how to act.

One of the common remarks heard in the majority of churches today is, “I’m not letting some preacher tell me how to live my life.” It is probably true for the older members of the congregation, but the younger have the same attitude. "It's my life and I will live it as see fit."

They won’t let “some preacher” tell them what to do or how to live their life, but they sure do listen and pay attention to the TV ads. Do you think all those infomercials would be paying all that money (millions of dollars) to run 30 minutes ads or one hour infomercials if it wasn’t profitable for them? Of course not, they are in it to make money and they do, hand over fist. These shows are making someone very rich by telling us how to live our lives.

We won’t let “some preacher” tell us how to live, but we listen and pay attention to the Hollywood crowd. People try to model their lives after some movie star or soap-opera character that they watch on TV. Really? Have you paid attention to the Hollywood divorce rate? Those people get married at the drop of a hat and divorce just as quickly. They live together, have children and then go their separate ways. What can they possibly know about how to properly live our lives?

People won’t listen to “some preacher” but they will allow a backslidden relative or a carnal-minded Christian to serve as a life instructor. What’s up with that? Does that even remotely make sense?

Still others refuse to take wise counsel and listen to their own selfish heart instead. Who is it that we are letting repress the voice of a Spirit-filled, God-anointed man of God that loves them and cares about their spiritual well-being?

Do you know why you don’t want to listen? Probably because there is some sin in your life that you enjoy and don’t want to give up. Satan is telling you that you don’t have to listen and that it’s perfectly alright, everyone is doing it. After all you’re not hurting anyone.

Well, listen to what the writer of Hebrews says… (Hebrews 17)

7 Remember them which have the rule over you, who have spoken unto you the word of God: whose faith follow, considering the end of their conversation.

17 Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that is unprofitable for you.

Who are these that have rule over us? The Pastor, that’s who. With a few (some notable) exceptions, these men have been called by God to preach the Word and lead a flock and to watch over the souls of others. These men are called and will give an answer, to God, for how they performed their duties.

Granted there are some preachers out there who are in it for personal gain, but I believe the majority are called by God to lead a church. I use myself as an example. At one time, I thought I wanted to pastor a church, but I have never felt the call of God to take that step. As a result I remain a faithful member of my local church. I serve several functions in our church including but not limited to teaching a Sunday school class and serving as the Church Clerk. I support my pastor because he IS called to pastor.

If you say, “I don’t have a ‘God-called, Spirit-filled’ preacher, then go out and find one. Find a church where the man of God will stand up, preach and proclaim “Thus saith the Lord,” no matter what others may think or say.

The sinful you might want someone that can be pressured and manipulated, but your redeemed soul wants a “man of God.”

If you don’t have one, FIND ONE.

- ALAN MURPHY

Have you ever given thought to your name? I don’t mean your ethnical origin or heritage, but your name. Who you are. Your name is perhaps the single most valued possession you will ever own. You might think that would be your home or your car. Maybe you think it is your intellect or your bank account. Fact is, the most important thing you own is your name.

When your name is mentioned, what is the first thing that comes to someone’s mind? Do they automatically think “godly,” “dedicated,” “caring,” ”religious,” or “loving” or maybe “cheater,” “liar,” “lazy,” “procrastinator,” or “unreliable.” Maybe their first thought is “hard-worker,” “trustworthy,” or “family man.” You can rest assured that your name evokes some thought or idea in the mind of the one who hears it.

How does that happen? Why does that happen? Simply because each and every thing that you say or you do creates an image of who you are in that person’s mind. That image tells that person who they think you are and what they think of you. This image is very hard to change and almost impossible to erase from their mind. The significance that other people place on your name will indicate how they will treat you.

It will come as no surprise to learn that the most frequent reference to the word ‘name’ has to do with God’s name. God’s name is used throughout the bible. God’s name stands for mercy, justice, faithfulness, love, compassion, honesty, grace, intelligence, life, power, supply, etc. “O Lord our Lord, how excellent is thy name is all the earth!” Psalms 8:9. You can also take a look at these verses. Psalm 8:1, Psalms 29:2, Psalms 102:15, 1 Chronicles 17:24, Psalms 54:6, Psalms 138:2, Isaiah 25:1, Isaiah 63:16, and Isaiah 9:6. You get the idea.

The Bible has a bit to say about our name and I’d like to take a look at just a few and give you a few additional references that you can look up on your own. The first verse that pops into my mind is from Solomon and can be found in Proverbs, chapter 22 and verse 1. “A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches…” This comes from the wisest man ever known other than Jesus Christ. Your name is more valuable than all the gold in Fort Knox.

When you do good, when you do the right thing, your name will bring up thoughts with a positive vibe. When you do bad or wrong things, your name will not bring very pleasant thoughts or memories. In fact your name might even be forgotten all together. If your name brings out undesirable thoughts in someone’s mind, you have no one to blame but yourself. This is also found in Proverbs 10:7. Solomon wrote “The memory of the just is blessed: but the name of the wicked shall rot.” Also read - Proverbs 21:24, Ecclesiastes 6:4, Ecclesiastes 7:1, Song of Solomon 1:3, Acts 24:16, 2 Corinthians 5:9-10, 1 Timothy 3:7, Matthew 6:16-18, Acts 22:12-13 .

Your name means something to others, what will that be? The choice is yours. Will it be good or will it be not so good?

Your name also means something to God.

What does God think of when He thinks of your name? (Sobering thought)

- ALAN MURPHY

Today, I want to talk about your words.

Proverbs 30:5 says “Every word of God is pure: he is a shield unto them that put their trust in him.”

There are thousands of references to the validity and truthfulness of God’s Word which has been preserved for us in the King James Bible. The Word of God is always honest. God’s Word can be trusted without hesitation.

God’s word can be trusted, our words on the other hand are not always truthful and they often cannot be trusted. Our tongue is a wicked thing and it gets us into trouble. We must constantly be on guard to ensure the value of the stuff that comes out of our mouth.

Words are important to God.

Revelation 22:18-19 For I testify unto every man that heareth the words of the prophecy of this book, If any man shall add unto these things, God shall add unto him the plagues that are written in this book: And if any man shall take away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God shall take away his part out of the book of life, and out of the holy city, and from the things which are written in this book.

So, what are some of the sins that proceed out of our mouth? The list includes pride, unthankfulness, gossiping, arguing, bad-mouthing, bragging, lying, back-talk, unkind remarks, deceit and the list goes on, but I’m sure you get the idea. It is interesting that three of the Ten Commandments pertain to our tongue. Our tongue can be used for good or it can be used to sin. Our tongue is an unruly beast.

Read James 3:5, 6, and 8.

Here are some other verses for you to look up: Psalms 15:3, Psalms 52:2, Psalms 64:3, Psalms 73:9, Prov 15:2, Prov 6:17, Prov 21:6, Prov 18:21, Prov 26:28, Prov 30:5.

It is clear that our tongue is behind much of our sin. What is the answer? Be careful what you say. Your tongue can be controlled. Your tongue should be controlled.

Keep thy tongue from evil, and thy lips from speaking guile. Psalms 34:13. That’s pretty clear isn’t it?

We are going to be held accountable for the words that come out of our mouth. We will have to answer for each and every word that we say. Jesus tells us in Matthew 12:36 “But I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment.”

We must be constantly aware of the words that we say. Our words can be for good or for not-so-good.

The Apostle Paul wrote to the believers at Colossi, “And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him.” Colossians 3:17. See also Psalms 35:28, Prov 10:20, Prov 14:15, Prov 15:4 and 1 Tim 4:12

Our tongue was part of God’s creation, but it was never planned for us to use the tongue to sin against God. If you are a born-again believer, you should endeavor to control what comes out of your mouth. Some of the best advice I ever got was from my mom. She said “If you don’t have anything good to say, don’t say anything at all.” If your desire is to please God and bring honor and glory to His name, watch your tongue.

- ALAN MURPHY

Quite often we are overwhelmed by the circumstances of life. We watch the news or read a newspaper or even observe the world today and it easy to get discouraged. The world seems to be spinning out of control. Hatred is running rampant across our country and across the globe.

Our country is more divided now than at any other time in our history. It seems the devil has us at each other’s throats. We are constantly bickering about one thing or another.

It is a short step to depression, despair and hopelessness. But there is good news. There is an answer to all of this madness and it is found in Scripture. There are a couple of short two-word phrases in which we can find comfort and hope. These are: “stand still” and “be still.”

The word “still” carries the notion of being silent, being quiet, being at rest, being calm, being relaxed. So, God’s Word says that we should silence those inner thoughts that threaten to hurl us into depression. We are to relax; stop being so tense. And when we do that, take time to think about God and His awesome power to deliver.

Here are four of these commands.

In Job 37:14 we read this, “Hearken unto this, O Job: stand still, and consider the wondrous works of God.”

In Numbers 9:8 the Bible records, “And Moses said unto them, Stand still, and I will hear what the LORD will command concerning you.”

And while facing the Red Sea in front of them and Pharaoh’s army behind them, the Hebrews were distraught and headed into depression. But in Exodus 14:13 Moses said unto the people, “Fear ye not, stand still, and see the salvation of the LORD, which he will shew to you to day: for the Egyptians whom ye have seen to day, ye shall see them again no more for ever.”

And one of my favorite scripture verses, Psalms 46:10 “Be still, and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth.”

God is awesome and He is still in control.

- ALAN MURPHY

When Jesus died on the cross of Calvary, did He immediately go to heaven? Did He descend into hell to free those held captive by sin? Was He in a state of limbo, purgatory, or in hell? We do know that Jesus’ died, we know He was buried, and on the third day He was resurrected, but where was He for the three days after His death and burial and before His resurrection?

There are those who thinks Jesus went to heaven to wait out the three days that were prophesied. This of course can’t be true because when Mary was at the tomb and saw Him, He told her, “Touch me not; for I am not yet ascended to my Father: but go to my brethren, and say unto them, I ascend unto my Father, and your Father; and to my God, and your God.” John 20:17

Then there are those who say Jesus descended into Hell to witness to the (pre-flood) inhabitants there. We also know that not to be true because there was no point in preaching a gospel message to those souls because “And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment:” Hebrews 9:27. Some say that those in Noah’s time did not get the opportunity to hear the gospel and therefore Jesus went to preach to them during those three days. This is also non biblical since they had the same opportunity to know and trust God that Noah had; they simply chose not to do so.

And there are those who feel that Jesus went to the old saints of the Old Testament who were in Paradise but not yet in heaven because Jesus had not made atonement for them yet. Remember what Jesus said to the Thief on the Cross: “Today you will be with me in Paradise (Luke 23:43)” and Jesus did NOT say “Today you will be with me in heaven.”

I think the final authority on where Jesus was for those three days is Jesus Himself. We can read in Mathew 12:40 “For as Jonas was three days and three nights in the whale’s belly; so shall the Son of man be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth.” The heart of the earth does not indicate a tomb carved out of the rock, but a place deep inside the earth. I don’t about you, but I think that’s pretty clear.

1 Peter 3:18-19 states, "For Christ died for sins once for all, the righteous for the unrighteous, to bring you to God. He was put to death in the body but made alive by the Spirit, through whom also he went and preached to the spirits in prison."

While the Bible isn’t totally clear what exactly Christ did for the three days between His death and resurrection, we do know for sure is that Jesus was not giving people a second chance for salvation. The Bible tells us that we face judgment after death (Hebrews 9:27), not a second chance.

The word "preached" as used in verse 19 is not the customary word we find in the New Testament used to describe the preaching of the gospel. It literally means to “herald a message.” So, Jesus suffered and died on the Cross, His body being put to death, and His spirit died when He was made sin. But His spirit was made alive and He returned it to the Father.

It appears that upon His death, the Lord Jesus parted from His body and descended into Hades (at the heart of the earth) for three days and three nights to proclaim His victory over the Devil and all his fallen angels (demons).

At Christ's resurrection, the Bible tells us that "many bodies of the [Old Testament] saints" also resurrected and went out from their graves, walked again upon this earth (Matthew 27:52-53) and eventually went to Heaven together with all the saints as Jesus transferred them from Hades to Heaven (Acts 1:11; Ephesians 4:8-10).

After the Lord's Resurrection, He remained on Earth for 40 days, showing Himself in His resurrected body. When He ascended back to Heaven (Acts 1:11), He emptied the Paradise in Hades, taking all the saved (Old Testament saints) back with Him to Glory. Ephesians 4:8-9, "Now that he (Christ) ascended, what is it but that he also descended first into the lower parts of the earth...Wherefore he saith, When he ascended up on high, he (Christ) lead captivity captive (those in Paradise to Heaven), and gave gifts unto men."

In 2 Corinthians 12:2-4 we are told that Paradise is now in Heaven.

Today, when a Christian dies, they go immediately to Paradise to be with the Lord in Heaven. As the Apostle Paul said, "we are confident, I say, and willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord." (2 Corinthians 5:8). At death, the Christian only changes his location. Therefore, leaving his body behind, he (his soul and spirit—the real "you") enters the glories of Heaven! Truly, for born-again Christians, to live is Christ, and to die is gain (Philippians 1:21).

- ALAN MURPHY

Question. How do we cultivate a sense of God’s presence? Perhaps you have never really given much thought to that subject.

It’s important that we (you) begin and end each day with the Lord, making time for a little silence, (Psalm 46:10 – “Be still and know that I am God.”) Bible reading and study, and personal prayer. Between getting up in the morning and going to bed at night, we should learn to pray quietly about whatever comes our way. “Lord, bless this phone call.” “Lord, help me relax and get some rest on this flight.” “Father, encourage that poor sad face I just passed on the sidewalk.”

Meister Eckhart was a medieval German preacher whose primary subject was the presence of God. He wrote: “I am as sure as I live that nothing is so near to me as God. God is nearer to me than I am to myself; my existence depends on the nearness and the presence of God.”

Let’s face it, we live in troubling times. Our world seems to be unraveling as we watch. Everything appears to be out of control and the devil is racing full speed ahead. There are many times when things simply seem hopeless.

If the evil in the world distresses you, imagine, for a moment, how it hurts the Lord to see it too. But, rest assured, we’re not alone. We have a faithful Defender, Friend, and Confidant who walks with us through this life. He will guard us and protect us from the evil one.

I like what the Psalmist wrote in Psalms 73:25-28

25 Whom have I in heaven but thee? and there is none upon earth that I desire beside thee.

26 My flesh and my heart faileth: but God is the strength of my heart, and my portion for ever.

27 For, lo, they that are far from thee shall perish: thou hast destroyed all them that go a whoring from thee.

28 But it is good for me to draw near to God: I have put my trust in the Lord GOD, that I may declare all thy works.

We have the presence of a faithful God surrounding us day and night.

It is that thought in which we can put our feet up and relax.

- ALAN MURPHY

Why are you afraid?

Do you fear that your 401K will lose value?

Are you afraid you won’t have enough to retire?

Are you afraid of spiders?

Are you afraid your car is going to break down and you can’t afford to buy a new one?

Do you fear losing your job?

Are you afraid of heights?

Are you afraid what might happen as a result of health issues?

Are you afraid you won’t get an annual pay raise?

Are you afraid of snakes?

Are you afraid your house is going be destroyed or severely damaged in a hurricane or some other storm?

Are you afraid…….?

Why are you afraid? Is it the unknown that frightens you? Is it the known that you fear? Why then do we fear? As children of God, we are told not to be afraid.

The Bible has nearly 200 admonitions to not be afraid. Not just a couple times. Not a dozen times. 200 times we are instructed to “fear not.” I won’t list all 200, but I do want to highlight just a few.

God had told Abram that he would have many descendants. Abram started to worry because he and Sarai had no children. God reassures Abram that it would come to pass. Genesis 15:1

Abram sent Hagar and her son away with little else than a jug of water. She and her son wandered in the wilderness for a while and the water eventually ran out. Hagar was afraid that they were going to die. She placed her young son under a shrub in the shade and wept. God responded to her cry. Genesis 21:17

Joseph’s brothers were facing starvation and were afraid what might be done to them as a result of their actions against Joseph. But Joseph calmed their fears. Genesis 50:17-20

Let’s face it and be honest, we all have fear. We are, after all, human. At various times throughout our lives we fear one thing or another. Some fears seem rational but many are not. When the Israelites were afraid to enter into Canaan, Moses told them that their fear was unfounded. Deuteronomy 31:6-8

Israel was told not to fear. Joshua was told not to fear. Ruth was told not to fear. Samuel told David not to fear. Elijah told the widow not to fear. Elisha told Gehazi not to fear. David told Solomon not to fear. Jacob was told not to fear, Daniel was told not to fear. Jesus’ earthly father was told not to fear, Mary was told not to fear, Zacharias was told not to fear, the shepherds in the field were told not to fear, Peter was told not to fear, Paul was told not to fear. Do you see a pattern here? We are told not to fear.

In Luke, chapter 12:7 “But even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not therefore: ye are of more value than many sparrows.”

Matthew Chapter 14: 27 But straightway Jesus spake unto them, saying, Be of good cheer; it is I; be not afraid.

Matthew Chapter 17:7 “And Jesus came and touched them, and said, Arise, and be not afraid.”

We are told time and time and time again not to be afraid. We have nothing to fear.

In the New Testament alone we are told nearly 30 times not to be afraid. So why are we afraid?

I think it the unknown that we fear. I also think it those things over which we feel we have no control that we are afraid. Just a quick reminder, it’s not about us. It is all about Him. We don’t have to have control, we need to know the One who has the control.

As believers in Christ, what do we have to fear? There is nothing that we need to fear. That doesn’t mean to act foolishly. This is not to say that you just pick up that snake that is in your yard and deposit it over the fence. That might be a foolish things to do. Having no fear doesn’t mean you pick up that black widow you found in your magnolia tree and put it in a jar. That would be a foolish thing to do. Having no fear doesn’t mean you can just walk across a busy street without looking both ways for oncoming traffic. That would be a foolish things to do.

Yes, we know that the Lord will protect us, but that does not mean be reckless. We still need to do the smart thing. Grab a shovel for that snake, grab a can of spray for that spider and look both ways before crossing any street.

Fear not means that through doing the right thing and living the right way and staying close to God and His word, we don’t need to fear what MIGHT happen. We must trust the Lord and know that He knows what is best, and when it is time to go home to be with Him, nothing will keep you earth-bound.

God has had this thing all planned out for a very long time. We have no reason to fear, when we rely fully on our Savior; when we put our lives in His hands.

The final ‘fear not’ came to the Apostle John while on the Isle of Patmos. During the Revelation of Jesus, John wrote these words…

Revelation Chapter 1:15-18

15 And his feet like unto fine brass, as if they burned in a furnace; and his voice as the sound of many waters.

16 And he had in his right hand seven stars: and out of his mouth went a sharp twoedged sword: and his countenance [was] as the sun shineth in his strength.

17 And when I saw him, I fell at his feet as dead. And he laid his right hand upon me, saying unto me, Fear not; I am the first and the last:

18 I [am] he that liveth, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive for evermore, Amen; and have the keys of hell and of death.

What are you afraid of?

- ALAN MURPHY