Hope For Now and Later

Introduction: Have you lost your hope? How can you get it back? One way is by reading and trusting in God’s Word, especially the book of Revelation. Our Lord reveals what is to come in the future. Have you read this apocalyptic writing?

Thank you for joining us in our daily devotion today. Be encouraged as we ask and answer two questions from Revelation 22:1-2.
 
1. How can we have “Hope and Healing” for our Hearts? (Rev. 22:1) – “And he shewed me a pure river of water of life, clear as crystal, proceeding out of the throne of God and of the Lamb.”
 

How can we find hope?

By drinking the water of life freely!

“And he shewed me a pure river of water of life, clear as crystal…” (Rev. 22:1)

“And let him that is athirst come. And whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely.” (Rev. 22:17)

This is the great invitation. In John’s gospel, Jesus invited any and all to come and drink from His everlasting fountain:

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

Are you thirsty? Once, there was a Samaritan woman who needed to drink of that living water.

“There cometh a woman of Samaria to draw water… The woman saith unto him, Sir, give me this water, that I thirst not, neither come hither to draw.” (John 4:7, 15)

Jesus said, “But whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life.” (John 4:14)

Once she tasted the living water, her eyes were opened, and her heart was quickened by the greatest Lover of her soul—Jesus Christ. Consequently, she wanted others to drink of this same water.

“The woman then left her waterpot, and went her way into the city, and saith to the men, ‘Come, see a man, which told me all things that ever I did: is not this the Christ?’ Then they went out of the city, and came unto him.” (John 4:28-30)

If you have tasted this living water and seen that it is good, will you tell someone else about it?
 
2. How can we have “Hope & Healing” for our homes and nation? (Rev. 22:2) – “In the midst of the street of it, and on either side of the river, was there the tree of life, which bare twelve manner of fruits, and yielded her fruit every month: and the leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations.”
 

How can we find healing for our homes and nation?

By the water of life is the tree of life, whose leaves are for the healing of nations.

The word “healing” is θεραπεία (ther-ap-i’-ah), which means care, attention, especially medical attention (treatment).
The word “nations” is ἔθνος (eth’-nos) (as distinct from Israel): a race, people, nation; the nations, heathen world, Gentiles.

Jesus extends His healing power right now from the terrible disease called sin. There is healing power from the balm of Gilead—healing from strongholds, lusts, pride, jealousy, bitterness, and all kinds of demonic activity.

Do you need healing today from our Lord’s touch? Will you trust Him right now? Take Jesus at His word.
 
Conclusion: By drinking from the living water that flows from the throne of God, we can experience hope. And by appropriating His healing power, we can be free to worship, love, and serve Him because of who He is. Have you done that? Do you need to do that right now?
 

Love y’all,
Dr. Randy Reese



Peace Maker or Trouble Maker

Introduction: Have you noticed that some people in the Church are “Peacemakers” while others are “Troublemakers”? Which would be descriptive of you? Hopefully, the former and not the latter would describe you. Apparently, the Church of Rome was dealing with both. But what insights did our Lord give His people about these two kinds of folks in the Church? Let’s see.
 
1. PEACEMAKERS! (Romans 15:19-20) – “For your obedience is come abroad unto all men. I am glad therefore on your behalf: but yet I would have you wise unto that which is good, and simple concerning evil. And the God of peace shall bruise Satan under your feet shortly. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. Amen.”
 

If we backtrack in this same chapter, Paul, inspired by the Holy Spirit, commends many of the fellow servants in the Church. Listen to his commendation:

“I commend unto you Phebe our sister, which is a servant of the church which is at Cenchrea: That ye receive her in the Lord, as becometh saints, and that ye assist her in whatsoever business she hath need of you: for she hath been a succourer of many, and of myself also. Greet Priscilla and Aquila, my helpers in Christ… Who have for my life laid down their own necks: unto whom not only I give thanks, but also all the churches of the Gentiles. Likewise, greet the church that is in their house. Salute my well-beloved Epaenetus, who is the firstfruits of Achaia unto Christ. Greet Mary, who bestowed much labour on us. Salute Andronicus and Junia, my kinsmen, and my fellow prisoners, who are of note among the apostles, who also were in Christ before me. Greet Amplias, my beloved in the Lord. Salute Urbane, our helper in Christ, and Stachys, my beloved. Salute Apelles, approved in Christ. Salute them which are of Aristobulus’ household. Salute Herodion, my kinsman. Greet them that be of the household of Narcissus, which are in the Lord. Salute Tryphena and Tryphosa, who labour in the Lord. Salute the beloved Persis, which laboured much in the Lord. Salute Rufus, chosen in the Lord, and his mother and mine.”

As you can see, God used many of His saints to further the gospel of Jesus Christ and build the work of the ministry. What a team! Team Jesus. Are you a part of Team Jesus? If so, praise the Lord!
 
2. TROUBLEMAKERS! (Romans 16:17-18) – “Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them. For they that are such serve not our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly; and by good words and fair speeches deceive the hearts of the simple.”
 
Contrary to the thought, “DOCTRINE DIVIDES,” here the apostle Paul writes to clear up any confusion because “DOCTRINE really UNITES!” Do you hold to sound doctrine? This is another valuable reason for studying your Bible. How else would you learn doctrine?
 

Conclusion: Someone has said, if you study the real thing (God’s Word), then you will be able to detect the counterfeit very easily. Can you detect false teaching?

Unfortunately, TROUBLEMAKERS will increase as we move toward end-time events. But at the same time, PEACEMAKERS will prevail because Jesus is the Prince of Peace!
 
Love y’all,
Dr. Randy Reese
 


Reach Out and Touch Someone – Part 1

Introduction: Do you remember the telephone commercial “Reach Out and Touch Someone”? Today’s devotion title is the same. After reading and studying this passage, you are going to reach out and touch someone. Check it out and see.
 
1. Honesty is the best policy! (James 5:16) – “Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed.”
 

The word “confess” is ἐξομολογέω (ex-om-ol-og-eh’-o), which means to acknowledge, or even to give thanks, or perhaps acknowledge a debt. Truthfully, one of the most difficult things after becoming a Christian is admitting our failures. Why? Because it often makes us FEEL BAD! We do not want to feel bad unless God the Holy Spirit is convicting us, which means we are God’s children (see Heb. 12:5-11).

Yet, much like dreading a visit to the dentist for an extraction or filling because of the initial pain, ultimately, afterward, it brings great RELIEF! And so it is with our walk with Jesus. Having sweet fellowship with Him through confession and cleansing makes it well worth taking a step of obedience with transparency.

However, we need to add a word of CAUTION: Beware of sharing confidential information with just anybody who professes Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. Why? Because most Christians are not ready to hear or respond from a biblical point of view rather than a fleshly point of view—not to mention keeping it private without gossiping. A tidal wave of irreparable damage can result from innocently “sharing.” Be extra careful!

The word “faults” is ἁμαρτία (ham-ar-tee’-ah). It has to do with missing the mark. It can also refer to guilt. Literally, it means sin, or it can mean a fault or a failure (in an ethical sense)—a sinful deed. We have all missed the mark! Unfortunately, at times, we take our eyes off Jesus, like Peter, who began to sink after being distracted by the wind and waves. Do you ever get distracted from Jesus?

By the way, this verse does not insinuate that we need a Pope, priest, or preacher to confess all of our sins to. Instead, this seems to indicate some accountability along with responsibility. This, of course, is only after we’ve done business with the God of the Bible.

  • Do you need to be more accountable?
  • Are you one that just hits and misses in church when you want to?
 

Conclusion: Our Father in heaven knows what is best for His children. Therefore, He led James by His Spirit to pen these words. Confession is good for the soul! Without it, our heart gets as hard as a rock. However, with it, God softens our heart to be pliable.

Purpose in your heart to make confession to the Lord daily. It is a choice (1 John 1:9) that God honors. At the same time, be careful who you confess things to besides our Lord. Then, you will keep a tender heart to be used by God the Holy Spirit.
 
Love y’all,
Dr. Randy Reese


Calling All Intercessors and Burden Bearers – Part 2

Introduction: 
Here is our dilemma: you are carrying the load as an intercessor—standing in the gap. It is heavy, not fully understood by others, a lonely road, and sometimes overwhelming, but in the long run, REWARDING!

Balancing and knowing what we can’t control vs. what we can control is very difficult at times. It can create an overwhelming sense of anxiety. Can you relate?

So what should we do?
 
1. Don’t worry about what you can’t do! (Matthew 6:25-27) – “Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on. Is not the life more than meat, and the body than raiment? Behold the fowls of the air: for they sow not, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feedeth them. Are ye not much better than they? Which of you by taking thought can add one cubit unto his stature?”
 

Worrying is for the BIRDS! Wait a minute… Jesus said even they do not worry—so why worry? Look, worrying will not make you grow taller. In fact, more than likely, it will send you to a premature grave!

There is a FINE LINE between CONCERN and WORRY. Have you drawn the line?
 
2. Just do what you can! (Matthew 6:33) – “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.”
 
Have you put Jesus first? Are there any idols in your life? Are you willing to sacrifice all of your TIME, TALENTS, and TREASURES? That is the test. So just do what you can!
 
3. Pray—”Thy will be done”! (Matthew 6:10) – “Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.”
 

While we cannot control everything, we can control some things. So focus on what you can do instead of what you cannot do. In addition, pray this: “Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.”

It will help bring relief!
 

Conclusion: Using wisdom to do what we can—instead of wasting unnecessary energy and time on things we cannot change—enables us, by the GRACE of God, to live in PEACE and harmony with our Lord day by day.

Remember to pray: “Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.”
 
Love y’all,
Dr. Randy Reese


Calling All Intercessors and Burden Bearers

Dear Christian,
Praise the Lord for your burden for your family, friends, and America! Clearly, God has used you and is using you mightily for those whom you are interceding!
 
Here is our dilemma:
You are carrying the load as an intercessor—standing in the gap. It is heavy, not fully understood by others, a lonely road, and sometimes overwhelming, but in the long run, rewarding!
 

Balancing and knowing what we can’t control vs. what we can control is very difficult at times. It can create an overwhelming sense of anxiety. Can you relate? So what should we do?

During those times, we must totally rely on JESUS, taking those cares and concerns to Him and leaving them there, trusting His peace, presence, and power to see us through the things (people—loved ones) we can’t control. That’s the hard part! This is a major challenge because most of us are fixers! We want to fix others’ problems, and often, we cannot.

Sometimes, they mess up. Then, we need to be there to pick them up, to love them while giving them spiritual guidance. This is God’s will. Our Heavenly Father does the same for us.

So bless His name! His grace is sufficient—no matter what—knowing that His goodness and grace abound brings comfort and confidence to fight against our fears while feeding our faith.

Remember that our Lord is working on us through this calling to be an intercessor. He is teaching us to trust Him more! He is carrying us through experiences that we cannot control. But in the end, He is conforming us into His image. As we decrease and He increases, His life shines through our weaknesses.

“Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except a corn of wheat fall into the ground and die, it abideth alone: but if it die, it bringeth forth much fruit.” (John 12:24)

Much like a grain of wheat before being planted is useless. Yet, when planted in the ground, it goes through the process of the hard outer shell (self) being cracked open, and the life of the plant begins to germinate. Jesus Christ spoke of a grain of wheat dying and producing fruit—even though He was referring to His own death. However, the same principle applies to us—death to self (the flesh).

So take some time to let your mind wind down (walking outside, enjoying His creation, etc.). Remember, Jesus told His disciples to “come apart” for a while. He knows because He faced these challenges head-on and overcame them. At times, we need to get refreshed and renewed. Today’s stress and pressure can wear us down. Troubles and cares can weigh us down.

But that is what distinguishes a Christian from a non-believer—being able to take our cares and prayers to Him—CHRIST in us, the HOPE of GLORY!

I’m praying for you daily. We are in this spiritual battle together—JESUS is going to see us through!
 
Love y’all,
Dr. Randy Reese
 

(Isaiah 26:3-4)



Freedom From Care

Introduction: Are loaded down with unnecessary CARE? Unhealthy CARE can be like a ball and chain. There’s a fine line between worry and concern. What should we do about CARE? How can we deal with CARE? A closer investigation into the Bible reveals our Lord’s provision for CARE.
 
1. The Cure for Care is Prayer! (Phil 4:6-7) – “6Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. 7And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” 
 

If we focus on all our PROBLEMS and things we cannot CONTROL, then we become OVERWHELMED with CARE. But if we look to JESUS and TRUST in Him then we can have His PEACE and PRESENCE.

Why be full of CARE when we have the power of PRAYER.
 
2. The Cause of Care is Fear! (Luke 12:32) – “32Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom.” 
 
In the context of this passage, Jesus is illustrating the needs of birds and flowers in comparison to His children. Our Heavenly Father meets their needs for food and clothing. So Jesus tells His followers that our Heavenly Father knows our needs; therefore, we can TRUST Him.
 
3. The Comfort of Care is be Aware! (1Pet 5:6-7) – “Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time: 7Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.” 
 
Either we can carry the heavy load of CARE, or throw it upon the Lord. He will carry the CARE, if we let Him. Take a load off!
 
What are you going to do?
 
Conclusion: Are you facing unhealthy CARE and WORRY? Take it to our Lord Jesus in PRAYER. Put the CARE on His shoulders! Be FREE from the burden of WORRY and CARE!
 
Love y’all,
Dr. Randy Reese


Foretelling the Future with Accuracy

Introduction: What would it be like if, in the early 1900s, someone wrote about a man named Donald Trump becoming President of the United States in 125 years? You might say, “That would be impossible!” Right? But that is exactly what Isaiah the prophet wrote concerning a foreign king that God would raise up providentially for the purpose of rebuilding Jerusalem—both the temple and its walls—after its destruction.
 

Remember, Isaiah prophesied during the reign of Kings Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah (Isaiah 1:1). These facts reveal that his ministry was recorded from 740–701 B.C. Guess what? That was approximately 150 years before the fulfillment of the prophesied King named Cyrus, who came to the throne! Amazing, isn’t it? Do you know of another document with such consistent pinpoint accuracy?

Therefore, we conclude that the prophet Isaiah died long before these events transpired. Look at the overwhelming evidence of these unparalleled prophecies. Bottom line: The BIBLE STANDS—so you can STAND on it!
 
1. Reliable Biblical Foreshadowing of the Rising of King Cyrus (Isaiah 44:28) – “That saith of Cyrus, He is my shepherd, and shall perform all my pleasure: even saying to Jerusalem, Thou shalt be built; and to the temple, Thy foundation shall be laid.”
 

Did you notice that Isaiah named the Persian King Cyrus, who would show favor to Israel and, more specifically, to Jerusalem? (Isaiah 45:1,13)

“Thus saith the LORD to his anointed, to Cyrus, whose right hand I have holden, to subdue nations before him… I have raised him up in righteousness, and I will direct all his ways: he shall build my city, and he shall let go my captives, not for price nor reward, saith the LORD of hosts.”

Again, don’t miss the fact that this incredible prophecy was made long before he became king or was even in the picture.
 
2. The Divine Providential Purpose of King Cyrus (Ezra 1:1) – “Now in the first year of Cyrus king of Persia, that the word of the LORD by the mouth of Jeremiah might be fulfilled, the LORD stirred up the spirit of Cyrus king of Persia, that he made a proclamation throughout all his kingdom, and put it also in writing, saying, Thus saith Cyrus king of Persia, The LORD God of heaven hath given me all the kingdoms of the earth; and he hath charged me to build him a house at Jerusalem, which is in Judah.”
 
Almighty God holds the king’s heart in His hand; as the rivers of water, He turns it in whatever direction He chooses. You see, it is all in His plan and purpose. More specifically, He is sovereign over His chosen people—the nation of Israel. Since we have this record of Him keeping His promises to the Jews, we can be assured with great confidence that Jesus Christ will keep His promises to His Church! He will return to receive His bride (John 14:1-3). Are you watching and waiting?
 

3. Archaeological Evidence of King Cyrus

Have you ever heard of the Cyrus Cylinder? Today, it can be found in the British Museum. Made of clay, this artifact was excavated in March 1879 but dates back to the sixth century B.C. during the time of King Cyrus’ reign. Though small (8×4 inches), it contains writing concerning the reign of King Cyrus, providing overwhelming evidence and reliability of the Scriptures.
 

4. Historical Affirmation by Josephus

Finally, as an interesting highlight, Josephus, the Jewish historian, stated that the Jews in Babylonian captivity showed the Persian King Cyrus the prophecies of the Old Testament Scriptures, which contained his name and described his role in the biblical plan of God. The historian says that it was this circumstance that motivated the ruler “to fulfill what was written” (Antiquities of the Jews 11.1.2), leading him to issue his proclamation permitting Israel’s return to her homeland.

Earlier, in Isaiah 41:25, the prophet spoke of the coming of “one… from the rising of the sun.” Even though he did not call him by name, the reference is clearly to Cyrus, who would bring good tidings regarding God’s plan for Jerusalem. The Lord’s mission for King Cyrus would be fulfilled as history [His story] records.
 

Conclusion: Prophetic accuracy is another confirmation that the Bible is a supernatural book, all pointing to a supernatural God. Jesus claimed to be God (John 10:30; 14:6-9, etc.), and others affirmed that He was God. His power over demons, death, and disease demonstrated He was God.

There’s only one thing left to say: If you haven’t, put your trust and faith in His substitutionary death, burial, and resurrection. Through His redeeming blood, your sins can be forgiven. All of this means that since His Word has been fulfilled in the past, it guarantees that it will be fulfilled in the future. Jesus is coming again. Get ready.
 
Love y’all,
Dr. Randy Reese


God’s Will for His People Serving in the Church – Part 2

If you haven’t read Part 1, posted on 03/06, go back and read it for the full context.
 
Introduction: Obviously, after reading these verses, there should remain no doubt that it is God’s will for His Church to be unified under the Lordship of Jesus Christ. Look at how important that is to Him. This is seen not only in this passage but in numerous others as well.
 
For the sake of reviewing once again, let’s go back to the letter from Paul, inspired by the Holy Spirit, to the Philippian Church. Several unifying words stand out. As you read them, see if they are present in your life. And if not, make the necessary changes by the power of the Holy Spirit.
 
1. See the importance of the harmony of the saints! (Philippians 2:1-2) – “If there be therefore any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any bowels and mercies, fulfill ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind.”
 

Our Lord’s encouragement through Paul to the Church then and now was to work together, not apart; love each other, not fuss and fight; and serve Him to accomplish His will rather than your own will.

Are you working together? Are you intentionally loving each other with Christian love? Are you serving the Church of Jesus Christ with a spirit of cooperation instead of division?

Will you step back and see the big picture in order to reach and teach people about the gospel of Jesus Christ? Remember, you can be working diligently and yet not in harmony, consequently hindering the progress of the work of the Church.
 
2. Check out the humility of the Church! (Philippians 2:3) – “Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves.”
 

Please take a moment to reread this verse in the Bible. Do you recall what the word “strife” means? Here it is—it means selfish ambition, rivalry, self-seeking, a feud, or a faction.

So instead of prideful arrogance—a “know-it-all” attitude—or trying to one-up everyone, believers in the Church should remain teachable as well as leadable.

Are you teachable? Do you listen to wise counsel?
 
3. Finally, consider the honesty of the believers! (Philippians 2:4) – “Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others.”
 

Do you know what? The only way you and I can fulfill this instruction is by taking our place at the cross. Why? Because we are selfish by nature and therefore look out for number one—me, myself, and I!

Now, does it make sense that the Church is a supernatural organism—not just a mere organization—empowered by the Holy Ghost, which supersedes human ability?
 

Conclusion: Don’t forget: UNITY = Maturity + Diversity.

In other words, what makes a great Church is great members. Go back and evaluate to see if you fit this criteria, which is marked by harmony, humility, and honesty.

If not, ask Jesus to change your heart so that it lines up under His will—all for His glory!
 
Love y’all,
Dr. Randy Reese


Going Astray on a Sunny Day

Introduction: Do you agree that days of PROSPERITY can lead to days of APOSTASY? Also, would you agree that it is very easy these days to GO ASTRAY? Granted, it may not be intentional—in fact, most of the time, it is not—but nevertheless, it happens.
 
The Psalmist warns us about GOING ASTRAY and what to do about it.
 
1. Have you ever GONE ASTRAY? (Psalm 119:176) – “I have gone astray like a lost sheep; seek thy servant, for I do not forget thy commandments.”
 

Did you know the Hebrew word for “gone astray” is תָּעָה (taw-aw’)? It means to err or to wander. Furthermore, it has to do with vacillating or reeling. The truth is that we can GO ASTRAY on a SUNNY DAY (times of prosperity) or on a STORMY DAY (times of apostasy). In other words, whether things are going good or bad, we can GO ASTRAY.

Have you GONE ASTRAY?
 
2. Have you considered that we are the sheep of our Lord’s pasture? (Psalm 119:176) – “I have gone astray like a lost sheep; seek thy servant, for I do not forget thy commandments.”
 

The Hebrew word for “sheep” is שֶׂה, which refers to a lamb, sheep, or goat—a member of a flock. The word “lost” means to wander away.

Sheep need a SHEPHERD. Unintentionally, they can nibble on the grass and get further away from the fold without even realizing it. Meanwhile, danger is lurking in the dark, like a wolf or bear ready to devour the lamb or sheep. Just like lost sheep, we too can go astray from the GREAT SHEPHERD.

Watch out! Beware!! Careful!!!
 
3. Have you asked for the Shepherd to seek (search out) for you? (Psalm 119:176) – “I have gone astray like a lost sheep; seek thy servant, for I do not forget thy commandments.”
 

The Hebrew word for “seek” is בָּקַשׁ (bah-KASH or baw-kash’), which means to search, to request, or even to desire. Lastly, it can refer to striving after something.

Thank God for our SHEPHERD, who will leave the ninety-nine and go after the one lost sheep! He will come looking for you!!
 

Conclusion: Do you need to go home? Will you recommit to returning to the fold? Have you been going astray?

GOOD NEWS: God loves His SHEEP! He loves us so much that He will “seek” us out when we go astray!!
 
Love y’all,
Dr. Randy Reese


God’s Will for His People in the Church

Introduction: Wouldn’t it be wonderful if we had a manual that we could read that would assure us of pleasing our Lord Jesus as we relate to others in His Church? Well, guess what? We do! It’s called the Bible. While it may sound simple enough, putting it into practice is another story. There’s an old saying that goes like this: “To live with the saints above will be GLORY! But to live with the saints here below is a different STORY!”
 
Our devotion for today will discuss this most important matter, so please take notes and share it with others. Here are two non-negotiable truths from the prison epistle called the book of Philippians.
 
1. How are we to relate to people in the Church? (Philippians 2:1) – “If there be therefore any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any bowels and mercies.”
 

Check out these key words:

  • “Consolation” (v.1) – The Greek word is παράκλησις (par-ak’-lay-sis), which means encouragement, exhortation, consolation, or even comfort. Basically, another word for this is encouragement. Are you an encourager? Do you need encouragement?
  • “Comfort” (v.1) – The Greek word is παραμύθιον (par-am-oo’-thee-on). The definition of comfort is consolation, exhortation, or persuasion. It is formed from the Greek verb παραμυθέομαι (paramutheomai), which means “to comfort” or “to console.”
  • “Fellowship” (v.1) – The Greek word is κοινωνία (koy-nohn-ee’-ah). This word has to do with fellowship, communion, participation, sharing, or even partnership. Are you in or out of fellowship with the brethren?
  • “Bowels” (v.1) – The Greek word is σπλάγχνον (splangkh’-non). It means compassion, affection, heart, the inward parts; it can be considered the seat of the feelings.
  • “Compassion” (v.1) – The Greek word is οἰκτιρμός (oyk-tir-mos’), which means mercy, pity, compassion, favor, grace, or mercy. Are you known as a person of compassion or as judgmental?
 
2. How are we to equate God’s will with people in the Church? (Philippians 2:2-4) – “Fulfill ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind.”
 
  • “Joy” (v.2) – The Greek word is χαρά (khar-ah’), which means gladness or delight. Do you fill the saints with grief or delight?
  • “Likeminded” (v.2) – The Greek word is σύμψυχος (soom’-psoo-khos), which means united in spirit, harmonious, or of one accord. That describes the early Church. Are you likeminded or always argumentative?

“Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves.” (Philippians 2:3)

  • “Strife” (v.3) – The Greek word is ἐριθεία (er-ith-i’-ah), which means selfish ambition, rivalry, or self-seeking, a feud, or a faction. Are you finding yourself being selfish when it comes to serving in the Church? Look out for #1!
  • “Vainglory” (v.3) – The Greek word is κενδοξία (ken-od-ox-ee’-ah). It has to do with being empty, conceited, or vain. Basically, it means empty pride. Perhaps this negative trait lies deep down inside most Christians, especially outside the grace of God.
  • “Esteeming” (v.3) – The Greek word is ἡγέομαι (hayg-eh’-om-ahee). It has to do with leading and guiding. Did you notice the next phrase?
  • “Better than” (v.3) – This means to surpass, excel, or be superior—to rise above. In other words, we are to lead and guide others to rise above or to be superior. Can you honestly say that is true about yourself? This is convicting, isn’t it?
 

“Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others.” (Philippians 2:4)

We are our brother’s keeper! Once redeemed by the blood of Jesus Christ, we are immersed into the body of Christ. Sounds simple? We are all a work in progress. But having Basic Instructions Before Leaving Earth will hopefully ensure that our eternal destiny will be more than we even imagined. Are you looking forward to it?
 

Conclusion: What a heart-searching and life-changing passage! Certainly, if this scripture is applied to our lives by the Holy Spirit, it will make a huge difference in the way we relate to others in the Church.

Love y’all,
Pastor Randy Reese