Abraham-Not of this world
Gen 12:1-9
As we look at the life of Abraham, we are going to see his heart and his attitude towards God.
1. Abraham chose to Obey God. The first thing we notice is that Abraham had a choice and he chose to obey this call.
• Matt 10:37-39
2. Abraham had a promise Gen12:2-3. Five times bless...God will do it. Not within us. Every good gift from Abraham..Imagine Abraham sharing with Sarah about living in tents... will have children...promise to make them a great nation.
3. Abraham would be a blessing. “You will be a blessing”. How? The blessing... to make your name great.
• Abraham I will take away your name and give you a far better name… Jesus
• God takes away our identity to give us a far better identity.
4. Bless those who bless you and curse those who curse you….
• Melchizedek & Abimelech blessed Abraham and they were blessed, Hagar cut off because she despised her mistress Sarah, the Canaanites who persecuted and troubled the Jews are gone. Greeks who overran Palestine and desecrated the Temple were overrun by the Roman Empire; …..God blesses those who bless Israel.
• Ps 122:6:9 Pray for the peace of Jerusalem
• Through Abraham, all families of the earth blessed. Nations, people groups…are blessed with JESUS! What a promise!
5. Abraham was not PERFECT. We do not need to be perfect to be heroes…it is not because of our gifting, talents, attributes, it is simply God’s call…we are the called. Now, we need to make the choice to obey the call wholeheartedly.
6. Abraham Preached. Peopled acquired-slaves or souls? Although Abraham was still in his journey, not seen any fulfillment of God’s promise, Abraham preached! V6.
7. Abraham Worshipped.
• His heart of worship even though not seen the promise. More to this life.
• Bethel (House of God) before me, Ai (the dump/world) behind me…where I am, I will continue to worship…Abraham established an altar…
Like Abraham, we are not of this world. What does the life of a pilgrim look like?
A life faith demands that we are not of this world, this is not my home, a pilgrim, declare the praises. A sojourner, a pilgrim.
Col 3:1-4; Rom6; Matt 6 19; 1jn 2:15-17 The pursuit of things creates emptiness.
We are pilgrims not drifters...we have a goal-to be with the King..build tents, preach, worship! Build tents but don’t expect to take it with us.
Friday, September 23, 2011
Friday, September 09, 2011
Sunday Re Cap (4th Sept 2011)
Text: Hebrews Chapter 11
In verse 32, it talks about some very interesting people of faith.
Gideon – Judges 6: 11 – 13
Barak – Judges 4: 6 -8
Jephtah – Exodus 20: 13
Samson – Judges 16
We see these people as flawed but God sees them as people of faith.
We look at the outward appearance but God looks at the hearts.
1 Samuel 16: 7
What will the Books of History write about us?
If Hebrews Chapter 11 was being written today, what would this faith chapter say about us?
V4. Abel brought an offering
V5. Enoch walked with God
V7. Noah built an ark
V8. Abraham was called ‘God’s friend’
V31. Rahab – the prostitute – believed God’s promises for over 40 years
Daniel 3: 17 & 18
“My God is able to deliver me from you”
“But even if He doesn’t, I won’t serve your false gods!’
Do we have this kind of Faith in God today.
Do we trust Him?
Do we trust Him to make the final decision about our future?
Do we really trust that He has our best interests at heart?
Hebrews 11: 38 – 40 (The Message)
Let us then be an example that others would like to follow.
Let us put our trust in the King and the Kingdom of God today.
Let us trust God with our whole lives.
Friday, August 12, 2011
Sunday Re Cap (7th Aug 2011)
We Are Favored
It's hard to say that when some of us face sicknesses, challenges in our families, trials in our homes, working places or even mounting debts? The last thing we feel like is that WE ARE FAVORED. It’s important that in this day and season, we focus on God and what He has said in HIS Word.
Rev. Samuel Hari @ GROW BM
Just as God called Abraham out from his own land, family and people, God has called us out as a people from our old life, comfort zones and in the bigger picture he is still calling us out to step out and walk by faith. Walking by faith involves stepping out.
Gen 12:1 -3 The Abrahamic Covenant outlines God’s redemptive purposes for the world through God’s people; “and all peoples on earth will be blessed through you.” Gen 12:3b
What RIGHT do we have to this COVENANT?
Gal 3:6-9 9 So then those who are of faith are blessed with believing Abraham.
1. God told Abraham wherever you go, I will make you into a great nation. Today, wherever you and I go, God wants to establish a great nation, HIS KINGDOM, Through US! How?
2. By blessing us…what is THE BLESSING? It’s not just favor, influence or prosperity which Abraham had…we have a blessing that is far greater than anything that Abraham had; we have JESUS who is THE BLESSING. Abraham experienced BLESSINGS but we have THE BLESSER! Today THE BLESSING is not just material things or health or influence; We are THE BLESSING of GOD to the dying world around us. This means that irrespective of the circumstances we find ourselves in, we are still God’s BLESSING to the world in CHRIST JESUS simply because we are BLESSED by THE BLESSER to be a BLESSING!
3. Why isn’t it happening? We are ignorant, don’t believe, think we are too small, don’t care. God is waiting. WHO WAS ABRAM?? A shepherd in the desert! Some of us want the blessing and don’t get it because we want it for ourselves… let’s be honest…James 4:1-6
4. I WILL…NOT you will…He wants to expand our spheres of influence…and make us a BLESSING…some are tapping into it but get overwhelmed and forget why they are blessed.
5. Whoever curses, we need not curse! He will curse…what are we to do? To bless…NOT CURSE! ALL will be blessed through us! Matt 5:44-48
6. What do we need to do? It’s all GOD! Abraham believed God and it was accounted to Him as righteousness…accounting was not based on Abraham’s reputation, talent, wealth, good deeds; but simply based on obedience!
It is so important that we recognize God’s favor over our lives in these challenging days. The only way we can make an impact is by constantly being aware of God’s presence and promises through Christ.. Christ is the link between the Abrahamic Covenant and us. To ABIDE in HIM is TO ABIDE in THE BLESSING!
Thursday, July 07, 2011
Sunday Re Cap (3rd July 2011)
The Insignificant Significant
Text: 2 Kgs 5:1-27
Today’s message shows how God can use the insignificant to do significant things for His purposes.
1. The Israelite Slave Girl (2Kgs 5:1-3)
The Hebrew term suggests a girl below 12 years of age. The contrasting situation of the helpless young slave girl and the famous battle hardened general is difficult to ignore.
We learn some very powerful lessons through this unknown slave girl.
i. She Kept Her Focus On God.
She could have easily been discouraged and bitter but she chose to maintain her focus on God. If we focus on ourselves then our response will be our own strength, our failure, weakness. We will end up having a victim mentality. If we focus on God and His power working through our lives, then whatever happens, we have a victorious mentality.
ii. She Chose To Do The Right Thing.
She had every reason for resentment towards her captors or even God for her circumstances but we see her doing the exact opposite.
iii. She Became A Powerful Influence For God.
What happens when we keep our focus on God?
It was not by chance that she was placed in the home of a powerful official. She was put in a place where she could be an influence where no one else could. She responded well. Read 2 Kgs 5:3-6
In today’s context, this account is a great encouragement to Christians. Although we may sometimes be in an unpleasant situation, God is able to use us in our situation to point others to Christ.
Monday, June 20, 2011
Sunday Re Cap (19th June 2011)
The Call of a Father
2. We can all be better fathers if we will work at it.
3. We do not father alone. That’s why we need to pray daily for our families.
Samuel Hari (GROW BM)
Eph 6:4 “Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord.” NIV
Ephesians disclose the awesome blessings of grace and the awesome dimensions of spiritual authority over evil (“according to the power that works in us” (3:20)). But this is after the believer accepts the discipline of unity (4:1-16), purity (4:17-31), forgiveness (4:32), and walking in the fullness of the Holy Spirit (5:1-21). With this, every relationship at every point must be in order (5:22-6:9), the idea being that true spiritual power flows from true obedience to divine order in relationships and personal conduct.
Ephesians disclose the awesome blessings of grace and the awesome dimensions of spiritual authority over evil (“according to the power that works in us” (3:20)). But this is after the believer accepts the discipline of unity (4:1-16), purity (4:17-31), forgiveness (4:32), and walking in the fullness of the Holy Spirit (5:1-21). With this, every relationship at every point must be in order (5:22-6:9), the idea being that true spiritual power flows from true obedience to divine order in relationships and personal conduct.
1 Avoid Exasperation (“do not exasperate your children”)
The first duty is negative we are told to “not exasperate our children.” This is a caution or warning designed to put us on guard against stirring up anger in our kids either purposely or unknowingly.
Some common ways that fathers can exasperate their children:
1. Overprotection.
2. Overindulgence.
3. Favoritism.
4. Unrealistic Goals.
5. Discouragement.
6. Neglect.
7. Excessive Discipline.
2 Provide Nurture (“bring them up”)
The NIV translates this verb as “bring them up”. This is the same phrase that is used in 5:29 referring to the husband’s role of “feeding and caring” for his wife.
3 Provide Discipline (“training”)
It’s important to understand the difference between discipline and punishment. The purpose of punishment is to inflict penalty and focuses on the past. The purpose of discipline is to promote growth by looking to the future.
4 Provide Instruction (“instruction”)
Our goal is not merely to get our kids to outwardly conform to a list of rules. Our mandate is to develop children who seek to glorify God with their lives. It is not enough to teach them to do good things; our job is to teach our children how to develop a lifestyle of kingdom servanthood.
The first duty is negative we are told to “not exasperate our children.” This is a caution or warning designed to put us on guard against stirring up anger in our kids either purposely or unknowingly.
Some common ways that fathers can exasperate their children:
1. Overprotection.
2. Overindulgence.
3. Favoritism.
4. Unrealistic Goals.
5. Discouragement.
6. Neglect.
7. Excessive Discipline.
2 Provide Nurture (“bring them up”)
The NIV translates this verb as “bring them up”. This is the same phrase that is used in 5:29 referring to the husband’s role of “feeding and caring” for his wife.
3 Provide Discipline (“training”)
It’s important to understand the difference between discipline and punishment. The purpose of punishment is to inflict penalty and focuses on the past. The purpose of discipline is to promote growth by looking to the future.
4 Provide Instruction (“instruction”)
Our goal is not merely to get our kids to outwardly conform to a list of rules. Our mandate is to develop children who seek to glorify God with their lives. It is not enough to teach them to do good things; our job is to teach our children how to develop a lifestyle of kingdom servanthood.
Fathers, you don’t have to make all these changes on your own. In Malachi 4:6, the prophet looks ahead to the ministry of John the Baptist and writes this: “He will turn the hearts of the fathers to their children, and the hearts of the children to their fathers; or else I will come and strike the land with a curse.”
Let us be encouraged in knowing that:
1. There are no perfect fathers, except our Heavenly Father.Let us be encouraged in knowing that:
2. We can all be better fathers if we will work at it.
3. We do not father alone. That’s why we need to pray daily for our families.
Samuel Hari (GROW BM)
Friday, May 27, 2011
Sunday Re Cap (22nd May 2011)
What is Your Sign?
Reasons for Obedience (Phil 1:28b-30).
Text: Phil 1:28b-30
This is a sign to them that they will be destroyed, but that you will be saved—and that by God. 29 For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe in him, but also to suffer for him, 30 since you are going through the same struggle you saw I had, and now hear that I still have.
Introduction:
The Christian life can be described as Spiritual Warfare. It will come to us one way or another.The warfare can sometimes get so intense that we can become discouraged and feel like giving up. Last week we heard HOW we should conduct our lives in a manner worthy of the gospel. This week we are going to look at Paul’s exhortation to the Philippians Christians as to WHY they are to live as citizens of heaven.
Testimony of Steadfastness (v28b).
a. Christians to stand firm in one spirit, contend as one man for the faith of the gospel, without being frightened in any way because this would a testimony of their courage (“a sign to them that they will be destroyed, but that you will be saved—and that by God.”).
The courage of Christians is a sign. Just like the courage of an army is a sign to their enemies that they are up against formidable opposition. Illustration: Ex 15:13-15; Josh 2:9-11; 5:1; are some examples. We may think that we are the only Christians in our families, workplace, schools but if we stand firm, our courage becomes a sign to our families, colleagues and classmates that God is with us and that they need the Lord. This is more powerful than eloquent preaching!
b. Christians to stand firm in one spirit, contend as one man for the faith of the gospel, without being frightened in any way because of the grace that they have received (“For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe in him, but also to suffer for him,”).
Suffering is a gift of God as much as the act of believing in Christ.
A direct translation of Phil 1:29 from the original text implies the meaning “you have (graciously) been granted the privilege of suffering for Christ”
Their suffering was no accident, nor is it a mark of divine punishment as though God were angry with them. On the contrary it is a sign of His favor; it comes as a gift of His grace. To suffer on behalf of Christ which can mean the same as “for the faith of the gospel” is actually a privilege given by God. Christ Himself is identified through the affliction of His followers.
c. Christians to stand firm in one spirit, contend as one man for the faith of the gospel, without being frightened in any way because it is their duty as soldiers of the cross (“since you are going through the same struggle you saw I had, and now hear that I still have.”)
To stand firm in one spirit and to contend as one man has the connotation of soldiers at their battle stations. Likewise the duty of the soldiers of the cross is to have the privilege to courageously fight for the gospel to spread.
Conclusion
Whatever happens, Christians should conduct themselves as loyal and patriotic citizens of God’s Kingdom because this would testify to their opponents of their impending destruction and that God is saving the Christians; God has graced them with suffering along with salvation, as faithful soldiers of the cross.
Reasons for Obedience (Phil 1:28b-30).
Text: Phil 1:28b-30
This is a sign to them that they will be destroyed, but that you will be saved—and that by God. 29 For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe in him, but also to suffer for him, 30 since you are going through the same struggle you saw I had, and now hear that I still have.
Introduction:
The Christian life can be described as Spiritual Warfare. It will come to us one way or another.The warfare can sometimes get so intense that we can become discouraged and feel like giving up. Last week we heard HOW we should conduct our lives in a manner worthy of the gospel. This week we are going to look at Paul’s exhortation to the Philippians Christians as to WHY they are to live as citizens of heaven.
Testimony of Steadfastness (v28b).
a. Christians to stand firm in one spirit, contend as one man for the faith of the gospel, without being frightened in any way because this would a testimony of their courage (“a sign to them that they will be destroyed, but that you will be saved—and that by God.”).
The courage of Christians is a sign. Just like the courage of an army is a sign to their enemies that they are up against formidable opposition. Illustration: Ex 15:13-15; Josh 2:9-11; 5:1; are some examples. We may think that we are the only Christians in our families, workplace, schools but if we stand firm, our courage becomes a sign to our families, colleagues and classmates that God is with us and that they need the Lord. This is more powerful than eloquent preaching!
b. Christians to stand firm in one spirit, contend as one man for the faith of the gospel, without being frightened in any way because of the grace that they have received (“For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe in him, but also to suffer for him,”).
Suffering is a gift of God as much as the act of believing in Christ.
A direct translation of Phil 1:29 from the original text implies the meaning “you have (graciously) been granted the privilege of suffering for Christ”
Their suffering was no accident, nor is it a mark of divine punishment as though God were angry with them. On the contrary it is a sign of His favor; it comes as a gift of His grace. To suffer on behalf of Christ which can mean the same as “for the faith of the gospel” is actually a privilege given by God. Christ Himself is identified through the affliction of His followers.
c. Christians to stand firm in one spirit, contend as one man for the faith of the gospel, without being frightened in any way because it is their duty as soldiers of the cross (“since you are going through the same struggle you saw I had, and now hear that I still have.”)
To stand firm in one spirit and to contend as one man has the connotation of soldiers at their battle stations. Likewise the duty of the soldiers of the cross is to have the privilege to courageously fight for the gospel to spread.
Conclusion
Whatever happens, Christians should conduct themselves as loyal and patriotic citizens of God’s Kingdom because this would testify to their opponents of their impending destruction and that God is saving the Christians; God has graced them with suffering along with salvation, as faithful soldiers of the cross.
Wednesday, March 02, 2011
Sunday Recap (27th Feb 2011)
Faith Talks
Pro 18:20-21 ..Death and life are in the power of the tongue, And those who love it will eat its fruit.
Words of FAITH bring LIFE and words of unbelief bring forth death. Find out how to fill up on God's Word and start saying things that truly make a difference.
Where does it word of faith begin? The heart or the mouth?
Pro 4:23 Watch over your heart with all diligence, For from it flow the springs of life.
However, a few verses before:
Pro 4:20 My son, give attention to my words; Incline your ear to my sayings.
Luk 6:45: for of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaketh.
The good treasure or bad treasure comes from the source where we heard it from.
Luk 6:47 "Everyone who comes to Me and hears My words and acts on them, I will show you whom he is like:
Rom 10:8-10
Faith starts with the mouth. God’s mouth! The Word of God tells us what is in God’s mouth. Our confession must begin with God and His word in our ears. His word in our mouth.
The devil is out to steal our faith. How? By talking yourself out of your healing, or your prosperity or whatever else you have been trusting God to give you.
Words are crucial and the devil knows it. Words of faith are your connection with the supernatural power of God. Words of unbelief cut off your source of power.
Mark 11:23
Jesus connected speaking with believing. Faith and words. They are inseparable. Faith is a supernatural force from heaven that flows into your heart, comes out of your mouth through your words and changes this natural world.
Real faith always shows up in two places: in the heart and in the mouth. Faith talks! That is one of its distinguishing characteristics. The apostle Paul put it this way, “We having the same spirit of faith, according as it is written, I believed, and therefore have I spoken; we also believe, and therefore speak;...” (2 Corinthians 4:13).
It is only when faith comes out of your mouth that it begins to change things in the natural world.
Pro 18:20-21 ..Death and life are in the power of the tongue, And those who love it will eat its fruit.
Words of FAITH bring LIFE and words of unbelief bring forth death. Find out how to fill up on God's Word and start saying things that truly make a difference.
Where does it word of faith begin? The heart or the mouth?
Pro 4:23 Watch over your heart with all diligence, For from it flow the springs of life.
However, a few verses before:
Pro 4:20 My son, give attention to my words; Incline your ear to my sayings.
Luk 6:45: for of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaketh.
The good treasure or bad treasure comes from the source where we heard it from.
Luk 6:47 "Everyone who comes to Me and hears My words and acts on them, I will show you whom he is like:
Rom 10:8-10
Faith starts with the mouth. God’s mouth! The Word of God tells us what is in God’s mouth. Our confession must begin with God and His word in our ears. His word in our mouth.
The devil is out to steal our faith. How? By talking yourself out of your healing, or your prosperity or whatever else you have been trusting God to give you.
Words are crucial and the devil knows it. Words of faith are your connection with the supernatural power of God. Words of unbelief cut off your source of power.
Mark 11:23
Jesus connected speaking with believing. Faith and words. They are inseparable. Faith is a supernatural force from heaven that flows into your heart, comes out of your mouth through your words and changes this natural world.
Real faith always shows up in two places: in the heart and in the mouth. Faith talks! That is one of its distinguishing characteristics. The apostle Paul put it this way, “We having the same spirit of faith, according as it is written, I believed, and therefore have I spoken; we also believe, and therefore speak;...” (2 Corinthians 4:13).
It is only when faith comes out of your mouth that it begins to change things in the natural world.
Friday, January 07, 2011
Sunday Re Cap (2nd Jan 2010)
Jump Into The Field Of Faith
Introduction
Jesus has never rebuked his disciples for having too much faith; "O you of too much faith!". NEVER! What was His rebuke?
Matthew 8:26
But He said to them, "Why are you fearful, O you of little faith?" Then He arose and rebuked the winds and the sea, and there was a great calm. Matthew 14:31 NKJ; Matthew16:8 NKJ
However, Jesus marveled at GREAT FAITH!
Matthew 8:10 NKJ
When Jesus heard it, He marveled, and said to those who followed, "Assuredly, I say to you, I have not found such great faith, not even in Israel! Matthew 9:2 NKJ; Matthew9:22 NKJ
Matthew 9:29 NKJ
Then He touched their eyes, saying, "According to your faith let it be to you."
All this verses brings us to one conclusion. Faith has no limits. Why? Because Our Father has no limits! It can accomplish anything and overcome every obstacle we face in this natural world. All we have to do is walk in it by speaking and believing God's Word. Discover how to plant scripture in your heart and release your faith...and get ready to reap an abundant crop of God's promises.
"Lord, increase our faith!"
That was the cry of Jesus' first 12 disciples…and it's been the heart cry of untold millions of believers ever since. And why shouldn't it be?
Again and again in the New Testament we see people receive miracles from God…according to their faith. We hear Jesus say, "If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed…nothing shall be impossible unto you" (Matthew 17:20). We read the words of the apostle John who wrote, "…this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith" (1 John 5:4).
The Bible makes it absolutely clear: Faith can overcome anything in this world order. There is literally no limit to what faith can do.
Why then aren't more Christians enjoying the limitless blessings that faith can produce in their lives? Primarily because we've limited ourselves to this natural realm. We've spent most of our time looking at the things we can see with our physical eyes, and believing what our natural senses tell us. We haven't cultivated the vast field of faith that's available to us.
You might say, we've fenced ourselves in by unbelief.
It's time for us to jump the fence of unbelief into the limitless field of Faith in God! In the few weeks that follow, we are going to learn how to plant the word of God deep inside our hearts and release our faith; Get ready to see God move in every area of our lives!
Ps Samuel Hari © GROW BM
Introduction
Jesus has never rebuked his disciples for having too much faith; "O you of too much faith!". NEVER! What was His rebuke?
Matthew 8:26
But He said to them, "Why are you fearful, O you of little faith?" Then He arose and rebuked the winds and the sea, and there was a great calm. Matthew 14:31 NKJ; Matthew16:8 NKJ
However, Jesus marveled at GREAT FAITH!
Matthew 8:10 NKJ
When Jesus heard it, He marveled, and said to those who followed, "Assuredly, I say to you, I have not found such great faith, not even in Israel! Matthew 9:2 NKJ; Matthew9:22 NKJ
Matthew 9:29 NKJ
Then He touched their eyes, saying, "According to your faith let it be to you."
All this verses brings us to one conclusion. Faith has no limits. Why? Because Our Father has no limits! It can accomplish anything and overcome every obstacle we face in this natural world. All we have to do is walk in it by speaking and believing God's Word. Discover how to plant scripture in your heart and release your faith...and get ready to reap an abundant crop of God's promises.
"Lord, increase our faith!"
That was the cry of Jesus' first 12 disciples…and it's been the heart cry of untold millions of believers ever since. And why shouldn't it be?
Again and again in the New Testament we see people receive miracles from God…according to their faith. We hear Jesus say, "If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed…nothing shall be impossible unto you" (Matthew 17:20). We read the words of the apostle John who wrote, "…this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith" (1 John 5:4).
The Bible makes it absolutely clear: Faith can overcome anything in this world order. There is literally no limit to what faith can do.
Why then aren't more Christians enjoying the limitless blessings that faith can produce in their lives? Primarily because we've limited ourselves to this natural realm. We've spent most of our time looking at the things we can see with our physical eyes, and believing what our natural senses tell us. We haven't cultivated the vast field of faith that's available to us.
You might say, we've fenced ourselves in by unbelief.
It's time for us to jump the fence of unbelief into the limitless field of Faith in God! In the few weeks that follow, we are going to learn how to plant the word of God deep inside our hearts and release our faith; Get ready to see God move in every area of our lives!
Ps Samuel Hari © GROW BM
Tuesday, November 02, 2010
Sunday Re Cap (31st Oct 2010)
The 5 Stones
Let us see the significance of the 5 stones that David picked to slay Goliath in the light of the NEW COVENANT. The number 5 represents GRACE who is embodied in the person of JESUS. Jesus is known as the Son Of David. Therefore David, as a picture of the Father is able to destroy every Goliath in our lives through the 5 stones, JESUS.
1 John 3:8b For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that He might destroy the works of the devil.
1. The Stone of The Past
and their sins and their lawless deeds[a] I will remember no more."[b]
2. The Stone of Prayer
3. The Stone of Priority
John 6: 28 Then they said to Him, "What shall we do, that we may work the works of God?" 29 Jesus answered and said to them, "This is the work of God that you believe in Him whom He sent." .
This believing is not just in the area of salvation but believing God for every area of life i.e. marriage, healing, salvation. Our idea of glory and Jesus' idea of glory may be different in the aspect of the outcome. One way or the other, God WILL get the glory! WE KEEP BELIEVING FOR GOD'S PERFECT WILL TO BE DONE.
4. The Stone of Passion
5. The Stone of Persistence
When we are pushed to the point, where we cannot see answers, deliverance anymore, we have no more strength to be persistent, JESUS continues to persists! Rom 9:33 ; 1Co 10:4
When we are in Christ, we have these 5 stones as all these 5 stones speak of Christ. The key to these 5 stones that defeat every taunting of Goliath in our lives is, JESUS!
Samuel Hari @ GROW BM
Let us see the significance of the 5 stones that David picked to slay Goliath in the light of the NEW COVENANT. The number 5 represents GRACE who is embodied in the person of JESUS. Jesus is known as the Son Of David. Therefore David, as a picture of the Father is able to destroy every Goliath in our lives through the 5 stones, JESUS.
1 John 3:8b For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that He might destroy the works of the devil.
1. The Stone of The Past
- JESUS IS (OUR) THE STONE OF THE PAST.
and their sins and their lawless deeds[a] I will remember no more."[b]
2. The Stone of Prayer
- JESUS IS (OUR) THE STONE OF PRAYER
3. The Stone of Priority
- JESUS IS (OUR) THE STONE OF PRIORITY (The Father may be glorified).
- John 1: 14; John 17: 24; John 14: 13
John 6: 28 Then they said to Him, "What shall we do, that we may work the works of God?" 29 Jesus answered and said to them, "This is the work of God that you believe in Him whom He sent." .
This believing is not just in the area of salvation but believing God for every area of life i.e. marriage, healing, salvation. Our idea of glory and Jesus' idea of glory may be different in the aspect of the outcome. One way or the other, God WILL get the glory! WE KEEP BELIEVING FOR GOD'S PERFECT WILL TO BE DONE.
4. The Stone of Passion
- JESUS IS (OUR) THE STONE OF PASSION
5. The Stone of Persistence
- JESUS IS (OUR) THE STONE OF PERSISTENCE
When we are pushed to the point, where we cannot see answers, deliverance anymore, we have no more strength to be persistent, JESUS continues to persists! Rom 9:33 ; 1Co 10:4
When we are in Christ, we have these 5 stones as all these 5 stones speak of Christ. The key to these 5 stones that defeat every taunting of Goliath in our lives is, JESUS!
Samuel Hari @ GROW BM
Thursday, October 21, 2010
Sunday Re Cap (17th Oct 2010)
The Two Fold Nature of Grace
Rom 3:5-8 But if our unrighteousness commends the righteousness of God, what shall we say? Is God unrighteous who lays on wrath? (I speak as a man.) (6) Let it not be! For then how shall God judge the world? (7) For if in my lie the truth has more abounded to His glory why am I still judged as a sinner? (8) And not rather, (as we are wrongly accused, and as some affirm that we say), Let us do bad things that good may come? Their condemnation is just.
Rom 6:1-2 What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin so that grace may abound? (2) Let it not be! How shall we who died to sin live any longer in it?
The grace that Paul preached was not a so called “balanced” view of grace but a totally extreme view!
Why did Paul preach an “extreme” form of grace? Because an extreme form of grace will produce an extreme form of believers. When we preached grace radically, we produce radical disciples.
How would we categorise ourselves, and the church in general? Are we producing radical disciples? Are people on fire for God? Why? Could it be because we are preaching “mild” or so called “balanced” grace?
Today we want to look at the life of Paul and see what radical grace produces.
Grace is both to be received and grace is also empowering. Believing and LIVING!
1Co 15:10 But by the grace of God I am what I am, and His grace which was toward me has not been without fruit, but I labored more abundantly than all of them; yet not I, but the grace of God with me.
Act 20:24 ; Tit 2:11-12
Witness Lee..Grace is giving the Holy spirit free rein to operate in and through our lives.
Grace has a twofold characteristic; it is to be received and it is to be expressed. The fruit of grace is an attitude of gratitude and graciousness. Parable of the unforgiving servant; parable of the sheep and the goats (Matt 25:31-46)
The Apostle Paul was the most successful missionary apostle in the Bible and we see that it was radical grace that propelled him to a radical ministry and lifestyle.
Let us fully embrace the double fold nature of grace which is to bless us with favour and empower us with RIGHT LIVING. Let us embrace radical grace, like Paul, and see radically explosive sons and daughters of God produced!
Samuel Hari @ GROW BM
Rom 3:5-8 But if our unrighteousness commends the righteousness of God, what shall we say? Is God unrighteous who lays on wrath? (I speak as a man.) (6) Let it not be! For then how shall God judge the world? (7) For if in my lie the truth has more abounded to His glory why am I still judged as a sinner? (8) And not rather, (as we are wrongly accused, and as some affirm that we say), Let us do bad things that good may come? Their condemnation is just.
Rom 6:1-2 What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin so that grace may abound? (2) Let it not be! How shall we who died to sin live any longer in it?
The grace that Paul preached was not a so called “balanced” view of grace but a totally extreme view!
Why did Paul preach an “extreme” form of grace? Because an extreme form of grace will produce an extreme form of believers. When we preached grace radically, we produce radical disciples.
How would we categorise ourselves, and the church in general? Are we producing radical disciples? Are people on fire for God? Why? Could it be because we are preaching “mild” or so called “balanced” grace?
Today we want to look at the life of Paul and see what radical grace produces.
Grace is both to be received and grace is also empowering. Believing and LIVING!
1Co 15:10 But by the grace of God I am what I am, and His grace which was toward me has not been without fruit, but I labored more abundantly than all of them; yet not I, but the grace of God with me.
Act 20:24 ; Tit 2:11-12
Witness Lee..Grace is giving the Holy spirit free rein to operate in and through our lives.
Grace has a twofold characteristic; it is to be received and it is to be expressed. The fruit of grace is an attitude of gratitude and graciousness. Parable of the unforgiving servant; parable of the sheep and the goats (Matt 25:31-46)
The Apostle Paul was the most successful missionary apostle in the Bible and we see that it was radical grace that propelled him to a radical ministry and lifestyle.
Let us fully embrace the double fold nature of grace which is to bless us with favour and empower us with RIGHT LIVING. Let us embrace radical grace, like Paul, and see radically explosive sons and daughters of God produced!
Samuel Hari @ GROW BM
Tuesday, October 05, 2010
Sunday Re Cap (3rd Oct 2010)
POWER TO FACE YOUR GIANTS Pt 2
Text: 1 Sam 17:40,45
The 5 smooth stones:
5 speak of the grace of God. David was an untrained youth with no titles, reputation.He defeated the mighty Goliath a trained warrior from youth (v33). We can't defeat our Goliath with our own strength, position, reputation, creativity, ideas. The only way is through the unmerited favour and enablement of God! When we are connected, we are anointed and enabled with power!
We are like the smooth stones:
1Pet 2:5
you also, as living stones, are being built up a spiritual house, a holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.
They were fashioned by the elements of nature. We are fashioned by the elements of circumstances, the hardships, the challenges that we face over time. Not easy to make stones smooth. Probably took a long time to become smooth being battered all around. As we receive the comfort of the Father, we are able to minister to others around us who are in similar circumstances. 2 Cor 1:3-4.
They were 5 stones and not one stone. This speaks about community. We cannot do it alone but we need one another. There are times we will rub against one another but it is for the good as it will shape us. 1 John 1:7; Heb 10:24-25; Eph 4:3
They were in the brook. The waters speak of the Holy Spirit. In spite of all the hardships and battering, they remained in the Holy Spirit. The stones happened to be in that particular brook; LED BY THE HOLY SPIRIT. We sometimes wonder what we are doing here or how we got here (in front of Goliath). We can question, murmur, and grumble about our position here and about the Goliath before us. However, if the stones were somewhere else, they would have remained just stones (STONED). Praise GOD they were there and when the time was right, they could be used!
We are living stones in the hand of the Father. It is the Father who gives us the strength, accuracy and direction to defeat the taunting of every "Giant" we face in our lives.
Samuel Hari @ GROW BM
Text: 1 Sam 17:40,45
The 5 smooth stones:
5 speak of the grace of God. David was an untrained youth with no titles, reputation.He defeated the mighty Goliath a trained warrior from youth (v33). We can't defeat our Goliath with our own strength, position, reputation, creativity, ideas. The only way is through the unmerited favour and enablement of God! When we are connected, we are anointed and enabled with power!
We are like the smooth stones:
1Pet 2:5
you also, as living stones, are being built up a spiritual house, a holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.
They were fashioned by the elements of nature. We are fashioned by the elements of circumstances, the hardships, the challenges that we face over time. Not easy to make stones smooth. Probably took a long time to become smooth being battered all around. As we receive the comfort of the Father, we are able to minister to others around us who are in similar circumstances. 2 Cor 1:3-4.
They were 5 stones and not one stone. This speaks about community. We cannot do it alone but we need one another. There are times we will rub against one another but it is for the good as it will shape us. 1 John 1:7; Heb 10:24-25; Eph 4:3
They were in the brook. The waters speak of the Holy Spirit. In spite of all the hardships and battering, they remained in the Holy Spirit. The stones happened to be in that particular brook; LED BY THE HOLY SPIRIT. We sometimes wonder what we are doing here or how we got here (in front of Goliath). We can question, murmur, and grumble about our position here and about the Goliath before us. However, if the stones were somewhere else, they would have remained just stones (STONED). Praise GOD they were there and when the time was right, they could be used!
We are living stones in the hand of the Father. It is the Father who gives us the strength, accuracy and direction to defeat the taunting of every "Giant" we face in our lives.
Samuel Hari @ GROW BM
Friday, October 01, 2010
Sunday Re Cap (26th Sept 2010)
POWER TO FACE YOUR GIANTS
1Sa 17:1-4; 1Sa 17:32
WHAT ARE THE GIANTS THAT YOU ARE FACING TODAY?
DEBT, DESEASES, DEPRESSION, WEAKNESSES, REJECTION, BROKEN RELATIONSHIP, TEMPTATIONS, PAST FAILURES, DISCOURAGEMENT, ANGER
DO YOU HEAR YOUR GIANTS SHOUTING?
• You are not qualified for that job!
• You are not good enough!
• You can't pay your bills!
• You can't save your marriage!
Stand up now and face your giants by the same tactics that God has given to David!
David taught us how to face our own giants.
I. PLUG IN TO THE SOURCE OF POWER – v 37
1Sa 17:37 The LORD who delivered me from the paw of the lion and the paw of the bear will deliver me from the hand of this Philistine. Saul said to David, Go, and the LORD be with you.
THE EMPOWERING OF DAVID:1Sa 16:13 ; 1Sa 18:14
THE EMPOWERING OF CHRISTIANS:Act 1:8
Paul testified:
1Co 2:4-5
II. CHOOSE THE RIGHT WEAPONS – vs 38-40
1. The Stone of The Past; 1Sa 17:37 ; 1Ch 16:12
2. The Stone of Prayer; 1Sa 30:6 ; Psa 57:1 ; Psa 59:16 ; Isaiah 26:3
3. The Stone of Priority; 1Sa 17:46 ; 1Sa 17:47
4. The Stone of PASSION; 1Sa 17:32 ; 1Sa 17:48
5. The Stone of Persistence; Gen 32:26
Never give up. One prayer might not be enough. One apology might not do it. You may get knocked down a time or two…but don't quit. Keep loading the rocks. Keep swinging the sling.
Samuel Hari (c) GROW BM
1Sa 17:1-4; 1Sa 17:32
WHAT ARE THE GIANTS THAT YOU ARE FACING TODAY?
DEBT, DESEASES, DEPRESSION, WEAKNESSES, REJECTION, BROKEN RELATIONSHIP, TEMPTATIONS, PAST FAILURES, DISCOURAGEMENT, ANGER
DO YOU HEAR YOUR GIANTS SHOUTING?
• You are not qualified for that job!
• You are not good enough!
• You can't pay your bills!
• You can't save your marriage!
Stand up now and face your giants by the same tactics that God has given to David!
David taught us how to face our own giants.
I. PLUG IN TO THE SOURCE OF POWER – v 37
1Sa 17:37 The LORD who delivered me from the paw of the lion and the paw of the bear will deliver me from the hand of this Philistine. Saul said to David, Go, and the LORD be with you.
THE EMPOWERING OF DAVID:1Sa 16:13 ; 1Sa 18:14
THE EMPOWERING OF CHRISTIANS:Act 1:8
Paul testified:
1Co 2:4-5
II. CHOOSE THE RIGHT WEAPONS – vs 38-40
1. The Stone of The Past; 1Sa 17:37 ; 1Ch 16:12
2. The Stone of Prayer; 1Sa 30:6 ; Psa 57:1 ; Psa 59:16 ; Isaiah 26:3
3. The Stone of Priority; 1Sa 17:46 ; 1Sa 17:47
4. The Stone of PASSION; 1Sa 17:32 ; 1Sa 17:48
5. The Stone of Persistence; Gen 32:26
Never give up. One prayer might not be enough. One apology might not do it. You may get knocked down a time or two…but don't quit. Keep loading the rocks. Keep swinging the sling.
Samuel Hari (c) GROW BM
Wednesday, September 08, 2010
Sunday Re Cap (5th Sept 2010)
Practice His Presence And See His Power
Gen 39:2-3 Joseph was conscious of YAHWEH and he was a successful man.
How do we become conscious of YAHWEH in our day to day lives? The Name Jesus which is YESHUA in Hebrew is "YAHWEH is our Saviour"; which is the "LORD GOD ALMIGHTY is our SAVIOUR!"
Mat 1:22-23 His name also means EMMANUEL which is GOD WITH US.
Jer 33:3 Call to Me and I will answer you and show you great and mighty things, fenced in and hidden, which you do not know (do not distinguish and recognize, have knowledge of and understand).
What is this mystery? What is this hidden thing? Eph 3:1-9. The mystery is Christ, revealed through GRACE! Not through the LAW or our own efforts!
Gen 37.His Father loved Him more than all the other children and made Him a coat of many colours. It is a long tunic with sleeves worn by young men and maidens of better class, a dress of distinction; unlike the labourers garb worn by his brothers. This did not only mean he had better looking clothes but a sign to ALL that he enjoyed a higher status in His father's eyes. This also meant that his responsibilities were different from that of His brothers. He was always at the father's side to bring him pleasure whereas the brothers were out sweating under the sweltering heat in the fields. The tunic spoke of His special position of favour and rest with his father.
Joseph is then betrayed by his brothers Gen 37:19-20. It's not the end when the LORD is with us. Is there anyone here who is in a worse position? Was this the end of Joseph?
Gen 39:2 At this very juncture, God called him a successful man!
It is the presence of the LORD in your life that makes you a success!
Success is based on not WHAT YOU HAVE but WHO YOU HAVE in your life!
Col 1:27-28
Christ in you makes you successful in your family, health, finances, relationships. Are you conscious of CHRIST in YOU? SO we should proclaim HIM! In CHRIST we have ALL things; so let's present every man complete in CHRIST. In CHRIST we are complete in every area of our lives!
Samuel Hari © GROW BM
Gen 39:2-3 Joseph was conscious of YAHWEH and he was a successful man.
How do we become conscious of YAHWEH in our day to day lives? The Name Jesus which is YESHUA in Hebrew is "YAHWEH is our Saviour"; which is the "LORD GOD ALMIGHTY is our SAVIOUR!"
Mat 1:22-23 His name also means EMMANUEL which is GOD WITH US.
Jer 33:3 Call to Me and I will answer you and show you great and mighty things, fenced in and hidden, which you do not know (do not distinguish and recognize, have knowledge of and understand).
What is this mystery? What is this hidden thing? Eph 3:1-9. The mystery is Christ, revealed through GRACE! Not through the LAW or our own efforts!
- The Father makes known the mystery.
- When we read the word. We can read with or without the Spirit. One is dry and the other brings revelation knowledge.
- The purpose of revelation is CHRIST and HIS FINISHED WORK. The LAW has been fulfilled.
- The nations, meaning the Gentiles are not 2nd class heirs but FELLOW HEIRS of the same BODY!
- One thing we notice so far is that ALL three of the TRINITY, FATHER, SON AND HOLY SPIRIT are all involved in the revelation of this mystery. They all testify to CHRIST and HIS FINISHED WORK!
- We are made ministers of this gospel (good news) according to HIS GIFT (unearned, unmerited, undeserved), by the effectual working of HIS POWER (not ours).
Gen 37.His Father loved Him more than all the other children and made Him a coat of many colours. It is a long tunic with sleeves worn by young men and maidens of better class, a dress of distinction; unlike the labourers garb worn by his brothers. This did not only mean he had better looking clothes but a sign to ALL that he enjoyed a higher status in His father's eyes. This also meant that his responsibilities were different from that of His brothers. He was always at the father's side to bring him pleasure whereas the brothers were out sweating under the sweltering heat in the fields. The tunic spoke of His special position of favour and rest with his father.
Joseph is then betrayed by his brothers Gen 37:19-20. It's not the end when the LORD is with us. Is there anyone here who is in a worse position? Was this the end of Joseph?
Gen 39:2 At this very juncture, God called him a successful man!
It is the presence of the LORD in your life that makes you a success!
Success is based on not WHAT YOU HAVE but WHO YOU HAVE in your life!
Col 1:27-28
Christ in you makes you successful in your family, health, finances, relationships. Are you conscious of CHRIST in YOU? SO we should proclaim HIM! In CHRIST we have ALL things; so let's present every man complete in CHRIST. In CHRIST we are complete in every area of our lives!
Samuel Hari © GROW BM
Thursday, September 02, 2010
Sunday Re Cap (29th Aug 2010)
We Need Each Other
"That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me." (John 17:21)
It's time we, as believers, began to enter into the oneness Jesus prayed for in John 17:21. It's time we held onto one another in good times as well as bad. It's time we realized that we need one another.
We do, you know. I need your faith as much as you need mine. Together, we can face anything and win in Jesus.
Let me show you why. In John 3:34, God says Jesus was given the Holy Spirit without measure. He was more powerful than all the demons of hell and all wicked spirits of all classes, including Satan himself. He was able to defeat their power combined.
Now consider this. We are His Body. Each of us has been given the measure of faith according to Romans 12:1-3. That measure is enough to take care of our own personal needs. However, there is more involved here than just our own personal lives.
We have a world to win! We are the end-time generation. We need all the help we can get. But, thank God, we can get all the help we need! How? By joining together. Ephesians 4:13 says that when we all come together in the unity of the faith, we'll have "the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ."
In other words, when the Body of Christ comes together and begins to function as one, we'll have the Holy Spirit without measure--just like Jesus did! We'll begin to see ministries functioning in the fullness of their callings. We'll begin to see manifestations of the Holy Spirit in full measure. We'll see Jesus in fullness as we've never seen Him before. Then the world will know the Father sent Him.
Step into that oneness today. Start today making a daily effort to make yourself available to God to pray for others. Start your day by saying, "Holy Spirit, use me to pray for someone today. I offer You my measure of faith."
Once we truly join together in faith, all the demons of hell won't be able to overcome us. We'll march right over them in the fullness of the power of Jesus and bring the age to a glorious close!
Scripture Study: Ephesians 4:1-16
Kenneth Copeland Ministries-From Faith to Faith
"That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me." (John 17:21)
It's time we, as believers, began to enter into the oneness Jesus prayed for in John 17:21. It's time we held onto one another in good times as well as bad. It's time we realized that we need one another.
We do, you know. I need your faith as much as you need mine. Together, we can face anything and win in Jesus.
Let me show you why. In John 3:34, God says Jesus was given the Holy Spirit without measure. He was more powerful than all the demons of hell and all wicked spirits of all classes, including Satan himself. He was able to defeat their power combined.
Now consider this. We are His Body. Each of us has been given the measure of faith according to Romans 12:1-3. That measure is enough to take care of our own personal needs. However, there is more involved here than just our own personal lives.
We have a world to win! We are the end-time generation. We need all the help we can get. But, thank God, we can get all the help we need! How? By joining together. Ephesians 4:13 says that when we all come together in the unity of the faith, we'll have "the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ."
In other words, when the Body of Christ comes together and begins to function as one, we'll have the Holy Spirit without measure--just like Jesus did! We'll begin to see ministries functioning in the fullness of their callings. We'll begin to see manifestations of the Holy Spirit in full measure. We'll see Jesus in fullness as we've never seen Him before. Then the world will know the Father sent Him.
Step into that oneness today. Start today making a daily effort to make yourself available to God to pray for others. Start your day by saying, "Holy Spirit, use me to pray for someone today. I offer You my measure of faith."
Once we truly join together in faith, all the demons of hell won't be able to overcome us. We'll march right over them in the fullness of the power of Jesus and bring the age to a glorious close!
Scripture Study: Ephesians 4:1-16
Kenneth Copeland Ministries-From Faith to Faith
Friday, August 27, 2010
Sunday Re Cap (22nd August 2010)
Practicing YESHUA's Presence
The Name Jesus which is YESHUA in Hebrew literarily means "YAHWEH is our Saviour"; which is the LORD GOD ALMIGHTY is our SAVIOUR! Every time we call on the Name of Jesus, we are calling on God to save us. This is God's Job Description. In whatever circumstances we may be in; financial, physical, emotional-we can call on YESHUA and Almighty God Himself will save us.
As we call unto YESHUA, He will reveal more and more of HIMSELF, who is the mystery revealed through GRACE. All the entirety of His finished work on the cross. A fuller and complete revelation of righteousness!
God is ALL Powerful; but if we are not confident that He is interested in our success, His power would not be able to work in and through and for us.
Mat 1:22-23 Now all this happened so that might be fulfilled that which was spoken of the LORD by the prophet, saying, (23) "Behold, the virgin shall conceive in her womb, and will bear a son. And they will call His name Emmanuel," which being interpreted is, God with us.
His name also means EMMANUEL which is GOD WITH US.
For the JEWISH mind, when we say "The LORD IS WITH YOU" it means to say that they become successful in every area of life. We can see in the OT that whenever the LORD was with them, they were successful in battles and were never defeated but when God was not with them, it was otherwise.
Practice His Presence And See His Power
It is one thing to know through our mind and knowledge that Jesus is with us and another thing to be conscious of His Presence.
We cannot go by feelings but by the truth and the truth is God promised that He will never leave us nor forsake us. It's His NAME! Immanuel!
The best time to practice is when we feel like Jesus is 100,000 miles away. Feelings aren't based on the truth. They are based on facts. God's word is TRUTH!
Gen 39:3 Now his master saw that the LORD was with him and how
the LORD caused all that he did to prosper in his hand.
Can we imagine ourselves in that position? Every project, assignment, errand we undertake becomes prosperous? Our hands becoming hands of blessing? Our families, company; we are a blessing waiting to happen.
Col 1:27-28
Even POTPHAR (A Heathen) could see it!
Start resting in His unmerited favour and start seeing His manifested presence and glory upon everything we touch!
Samuel Hari @ GROW BM
Tuesday, August 03, 2010
Sunday Re-cap 01 August 2010
No Middle Ground with Jesus
By: Ps. Abel Phillips
The Two Types
There is no "middle of the road" position when it comes to Christ's view of life, death, and eternity. Jesus declares that He is the One who controls entrance into Heaven. He says that He is the Author of salvation, the Judge of the eternal destiny of every creature in this universe.
It is good to look at some of the contrasts Jesus gave as He taught His longest message we call the Sermon on the Mount.
1. In Matthew 6:19-21 Jesus describes 2 Types of Banks: earth or Heaven;
2. In Matthew 6:22-23 Jesus describes 2 Types of Eyes: good or bad;
3. In Matthew 6:24 Jesus describes 2 Types of Masters: God or mammon;
4. In Matthew 7:13-14 Jesus describes:
2 Types of Gates: wide or small;
2 Types of Roads: broad or narrow;
2 Types of Destinations: destruction or life;
2 Types of Travelers: many or few;
5. In Matthew 7:15-20 Jesus describes 2 Types of Trees: fruitful or fruitless
6. In Matthew 7:21-23 Jesus describes 2 Types of Lifestyles: those who say the right things or those who do His will;
7. In Matthew 7:24-29 Jesus describes 2 Types of Foundations: rock or
sand;
8 In all of Christ's stories He alludes to 2 Inevitable Ends: being throw into fire and entering the kingdom of heaven.
Ps. 78:72 – The heart of integrity & skillful hand is needed to lead
Ephesians 3:19: to know the love of Christ which passes knowledge; that you may be filled with all the fullness of God.
And to be full of God is to be full of everything God is to you and has for you. To be full of God is to come to a place of life, health, peace, prosperity — total wellness.
Also, when you are conscious of how much God loves you and you become filled with the fullness of God, what follows is the next verse — God doing exceedingly abundantly above all that you can ask or think, according to the power that works in you. (Ephesians 3:20) You will experience the tremendous blessings of God exploding in your life! You will become a blessing magnet!
By: Ps. Abel Phillips
The Two Types
There is no "middle of the road" position when it comes to Christ's view of life, death, and eternity. Jesus declares that He is the One who controls entrance into Heaven. He says that He is the Author of salvation, the Judge of the eternal destiny of every creature in this universe.
It is good to look at some of the contrasts Jesus gave as He taught His longest message we call the Sermon on the Mount.
1. In Matthew 6:19-21 Jesus describes 2 Types of Banks: earth or Heaven;
2. In Matthew 6:22-23 Jesus describes 2 Types of Eyes: good or bad;
3. In Matthew 6:24 Jesus describes 2 Types of Masters: God or mammon;
4. In Matthew 7:13-14 Jesus describes:
2 Types of Gates: wide or small;
2 Types of Roads: broad or narrow;
2 Types of Destinations: destruction or life;
2 Types of Travelers: many or few;
5. In Matthew 7:15-20 Jesus describes 2 Types of Trees: fruitful or fruitless
6. In Matthew 7:21-23 Jesus describes 2 Types of Lifestyles: those who say the right things or those who do His will;
7. In Matthew 7:24-29 Jesus describes 2 Types of Foundations: rock or
sand;
8 In all of Christ's stories He alludes to 2 Inevitable Ends: being throw into fire and entering the kingdom of heaven.
Ps. 78:72 – The heart of integrity & skillful hand is needed to lead
Ephesians 3:19: to know the love of Christ which passes knowledge; that you may be filled with all the fullness of God.
And to be full of God is to be full of everything God is to you and has for you. To be full of God is to come to a place of life, health, peace, prosperity — total wellness.
Also, when you are conscious of how much God loves you and you become filled with the fullness of God, what follows is the next verse — God doing exceedingly abundantly above all that you can ask or think, according to the power that works in you. (Ephesians 3:20) You will experience the tremendous blessings of God exploding in your life! You will become a blessing magnet!
Friday, June 25, 2010
Sunday Re Cap (20th June 2010)
WHAT JARIUS’ DAUGHTER SAW IN HER FATHER
MARK 5:21-24, 35-43:
How did Jairus respond as a father in this situation and more importantly what did his daughter see in her father? What we will learn here is what children need to desperately see in their own fathers today.
1. SHE SAW HE WAS NOT ASHAMED TO SEEK OUT JESUS:
Notice he sought out Jesus--he did not send his wife, or someone else.
Many fathers leave to the mothers, intercessors and others to seek the Lord for their kids. When you took on the role of a father, you also were to take on the responsibilities of the father, given to by the heavenly father:
Some Simple Guidelines:
1. Dedicate your children to God
2.Teach your children to fear the Lord, & to turn away from evil,
3. Protect them from ungodly influences.
4. Establish them in church.
5. Encourage them to remain separate from this world,
6. Instruct them in the importance in the Baptism of the Holy Ghost:
7. Teach them God has a purpose for their life-
8. Have family devotions
2. SHE SAW HE WAS NOT ASHAMED TO BRING CHRIST INTO HIS HOME:
We must not forget Jesus was to many in the religious crowd, a friend of sinners, a winebibber, that the work he did was doing was by the power of the devil
Don’t leave Jesus in the church when we go home. Jesus is to be LIVED!
3. SHE SAW HE WAS NOT ASHAMED TO EXPRESS HIS LOVE TOWARD HER:
What took him from his daughters side, to seek out a Jewish teacher, what compelled him to fall at Jesus feet & cry out “I beg you, please come”, what would cause a man to forget his place in society, and what others might think or say? LOVE!
Fathers--don’t be ashamed to let your children see you seek the lord
Have him in your home
Show your love
Samuel Hari @ GROW BM
MARK 5:21-24, 35-43:
How did Jairus respond as a father in this situation and more importantly what did his daughter see in her father? What we will learn here is what children need to desperately see in their own fathers today.
1. SHE SAW HE WAS NOT ASHAMED TO SEEK OUT JESUS:
Notice he sought out Jesus--he did not send his wife, or someone else.
Many fathers leave to the mothers, intercessors and others to seek the Lord for their kids. When you took on the role of a father, you also were to take on the responsibilities of the father, given to by the heavenly father:
Some Simple Guidelines:
1. Dedicate your children to God
2.Teach your children to fear the Lord, & to turn away from evil,
3. Protect them from ungodly influences.
4. Establish them in church.
5. Encourage them to remain separate from this world,
6. Instruct them in the importance in the Baptism of the Holy Ghost:
7. Teach them God has a purpose for their life-
8. Have family devotions
2. SHE SAW HE WAS NOT ASHAMED TO BRING CHRIST INTO HIS HOME:
We must not forget Jesus was to many in the religious crowd, a friend of sinners, a winebibber, that the work he did was doing was by the power of the devil
Don’t leave Jesus in the church when we go home. Jesus is to be LIVED!
3. SHE SAW HE WAS NOT ASHAMED TO EXPRESS HIS LOVE TOWARD HER:
What took him from his daughters side, to seek out a Jewish teacher, what compelled him to fall at Jesus feet & cry out “I beg you, please come”, what would cause a man to forget his place in society, and what others might think or say? LOVE!
Fathers--don’t be ashamed to let your children see you seek the lord
Have him in your home
Show your love
Samuel Hari @ GROW BM
Friday, June 18, 2010
The Armour Of God
It’s called the belt of truth, because if you live your life lying, it’s only a matter of time before you’re caught with your pants down.
The breastplate of righteousness covers our heart because the Bible tells us that it’s the well-spring of our life...if we can protect our hearts, keep them geared towards living right, we can keep our life pure.
The shoes of peace are a challenge to be peacemakers wherever we set our feet - bringers of peace in hurting homes and tense workplaces and broken, divided communities.
The helmet of salvation is a reminder that when we’re saved, we’re called to no longer conform, but have our lives transformed as Christ renews our mind daily...the lies of the enemy so often come in the mind, but the assurance of our salvation and redemption helps us defend against that.
Gordon Fee says that we mistranslate the passage that deals with the sword. It’s our one offensive weapon, but he believes it’s not just the word...it’s the word WITH prayer. God’s truth married to our belief, obedience and confession becomes a sword that cuts to the core.
And the shield of faith. Sometimes, at the end of it all, we are left on the field of battle just clinging to our shield...and at that point, our faith is so vital. The enemy would try to sting us to death with doubt and fear and despair, but when all else fails, we have to cling to our faith, the knowledge that even when it doesn’t SEEM like God is doing anything, even when it LOOKS like we’re abandoned and alone, faith is about more than our five senses.
Aaron Boots
The breastplate of righteousness covers our heart because the Bible tells us that it’s the well-spring of our life...if we can protect our hearts, keep them geared towards living right, we can keep our life pure.
The shoes of peace are a challenge to be peacemakers wherever we set our feet - bringers of peace in hurting homes and tense workplaces and broken, divided communities.
The helmet of salvation is a reminder that when we’re saved, we’re called to no longer conform, but have our lives transformed as Christ renews our mind daily...the lies of the enemy so often come in the mind, but the assurance of our salvation and redemption helps us defend against that.
Gordon Fee says that we mistranslate the passage that deals with the sword. It’s our one offensive weapon, but he believes it’s not just the word...it’s the word WITH prayer. God’s truth married to our belief, obedience and confession becomes a sword that cuts to the core.
And the shield of faith. Sometimes, at the end of it all, we are left on the field of battle just clinging to our shield...and at that point, our faith is so vital. The enemy would try to sting us to death with doubt and fear and despair, but when all else fails, we have to cling to our faith, the knowledge that even when it doesn’t SEEM like God is doing anything, even when it LOOKS like we’re abandoned and alone, faith is about more than our five senses.
Aaron Boots
Sunday Re Cap (13th June 2010)
The Kingdom Of God
Mat 6:33 Jesus said "seek ye FIRST the Kingdom of God and His righteousness and ALL things shall be added to you".
What are “ALL things”. Are they just blessings and prosperity? In fact, Jesus also said a man is not measured by the substance and riches that he possesses. Luke 12:15-23. There are many people in the world that are very rich and are miserable (Luke 18:24). Mark 19:24; and also Luke 8:14 (In fact this is considered one of the mysteries of the KOG); Mark 10:23;
So what is the Kingdom of God? And where is it?
The Bible says in Mt 16:19 and Lk 12:32 "It is the good pleasure of the Father to give us this Kingdom" and Jesus said, "The Kingdom of God is within you". Lk 17:20-21
This is how Paul describes the Kingdom of God. He says that the Kingdom of God is RIGHTEOUSNESS, PEACE AND JOY IN THE HOLY GHOST! Rom 14:17. Meaning a man or a woman who possesses these possesses the Kingdom of God!
So do we have the Kingdom of God? Let's take a closer look at the 3 elements of the KOG.
1. RIGHTEOUSNESS
So what is Righteousness? It is not right doing but right standing with the Father. Phil 3:9 (AMP). Rom 5:17 also says that righteousness is a gift. A gift cannot be earned nor can it be paid for; It needs to be received. 2 Cor 5:21 We are the RIGHTEOUSNESS OF GOD IN CHRIST JESUS!
2. PEACE
The first thing that Jesus did when He appeared to the disciples was he said "Peace be with you". Jesus also said "Peace I give unto you, not as the world gives, but MY peace I give unto you".
How do we allow that peace to guard our hearts? Be anxious for NOTHING! Phil 4:4-7
3. JOY IN THE HOLY GHOST
John 15:11 That MY JOY might remain in you and that your JOY might be FULL!"
Mt 28:8 One of the first emotions that filled the heart of the disciples when they departed from the tomb was GREAT JOY!
Neh 8:10 It is the JOY OF THE LORD that is our strength!
John 16:20 Your sorrow will be turned into JOY!
John 16:24 ASK! That your JOY may be full!
John 17:13 Joy fulfilled in us
Difference between Joy and happiness. Happiness is based on outward circumstances (What others do, what we do, what happens to us and others) but Joy is based on what Christ has DONE on the cross!
The Kingdom of God is where JESUS is KING. When we live under the LORDSHIP of Christ and HIS finished work, we allow Jesus to be KING and begin to enjoy ALL things. These are RIGHTEOUSNESS, PEACE AND JOY IN THE HOLY GHOST. Begin to focus on these gifts. Not our failures, weaknesses, our past life. As we do this we truly reign in LIFE as kings!
Samuel Hari @ GROW BM
Mat 6:33 Jesus said "seek ye FIRST the Kingdom of God and His righteousness and ALL things shall be added to you".
What are “ALL things”. Are they just blessings and prosperity? In fact, Jesus also said a man is not measured by the substance and riches that he possesses. Luke 12:15-23. There are many people in the world that are very rich and are miserable (Luke 18:24). Mark 19:24; and also Luke 8:14 (In fact this is considered one of the mysteries of the KOG); Mark 10:23;
So what is the Kingdom of God? And where is it?
The Bible says in Mt 16:19 and Lk 12:32 "It is the good pleasure of the Father to give us this Kingdom" and Jesus said, "The Kingdom of God is within you". Lk 17:20-21
This is how Paul describes the Kingdom of God. He says that the Kingdom of God is RIGHTEOUSNESS, PEACE AND JOY IN THE HOLY GHOST! Rom 14:17. Meaning a man or a woman who possesses these possesses the Kingdom of God!
So do we have the Kingdom of God? Let's take a closer look at the 3 elements of the KOG.
1. RIGHTEOUSNESS
So what is Righteousness? It is not right doing but right standing with the Father. Phil 3:9 (AMP). Rom 5:17 also says that righteousness is a gift. A gift cannot be earned nor can it be paid for; It needs to be received. 2 Cor 5:21 We are the RIGHTEOUSNESS OF GOD IN CHRIST JESUS!
2. PEACE
The first thing that Jesus did when He appeared to the disciples was he said "Peace be with you". Jesus also said "Peace I give unto you, not as the world gives, but MY peace I give unto you".
How do we allow that peace to guard our hearts? Be anxious for NOTHING! Phil 4:4-7
3. JOY IN THE HOLY GHOST
John 15:11 That MY JOY might remain in you and that your JOY might be FULL!"
Mt 28:8 One of the first emotions that filled the heart of the disciples when they departed from the tomb was GREAT JOY!
Neh 8:10 It is the JOY OF THE LORD that is our strength!
John 16:20 Your sorrow will be turned into JOY!
John 16:24 ASK! That your JOY may be full!
John 17:13 Joy fulfilled in us
Difference between Joy and happiness. Happiness is based on outward circumstances (What others do, what we do, what happens to us and others) but Joy is based on what Christ has DONE on the cross!
The Kingdom of God is where JESUS is KING. When we live under the LORDSHIP of Christ and HIS finished work, we allow Jesus to be KING and begin to enjoy ALL things. These are RIGHTEOUSNESS, PEACE AND JOY IN THE HOLY GHOST. Begin to focus on these gifts. Not our failures, weaknesses, our past life. As we do this we truly reign in LIFE as kings!
Samuel Hari @ GROW BM
Friday, June 04, 2010
Sunday Re Cap (30th May 2010)
Breaking The Generational Curse
Exo 34:6-7
Have we ever wondered when certain things happen in a repetitive manner in our lives or if there is no breakthrough in a certain area of prayer if there is some kind of generational curse operating? i.e. accidents, divorces, marital unfaithfulness, death through a certain disease, financial failures, depression, addictions. Even lust, adultery and fornication have some basis in generational curse.
Generational curses are very real and Satan often uses this as a means to cause calamities to occur in cycles in the lives of people. Are generational curses operating in our lives and how do we break these cycles over our lives?
God's nature of lovingkindness cannot tolerate any form of iniquity. He is so Holy, Loving and Just that sin cannot be found in His presence even as far as to the third and even the fourth generation. However, His lovingkindness FAR outweighs His judgment as His lovingkindness goes to a thousand generations!
God is ever ready to forgive iniquity, transgressions and sin. He is slow to anger and ABOUNDING in LOVE. In other words, God is waiting to forgive us, that is the nature of God. He still has to point out that He will punish our iniquities and His mind towards sin is consistent and unchanging.
So when bad things consistently take place in our lives, is it because of a generational curse or because of sin in our lives? Why do we continue to experience these things? How far back are we to go to breaking these curses?
Many of us have even been taught this scripture that one way we can be free from that cycle of disease, poverty, failure is by going back a couple of generations and breaking the curses in our lives.
But can we do that? Even now, many of us are probably having some sinful thought. There are opportunities everyday to sin. What about our parents if they are alive? How do stop them from sinning? What about sins that our grandfathers committed that we don't know about?
On the one hand God says He forgives iniquities to a thousand generations and on the other hand He says He will visit our iniquities to the third and fourth generation. We can say, to break out of that cycle, repent! I fully agree. But this is not talking about your sins but the sins of your father and grandfather! How are we going to repent for them? What to repent???
It almost seems unfair and impossible to break out of generational curses!
Joh 1:12-13
When we receive Jesus and believe in His Name, we have the right to become the children of God! This verse tells us that we are no longer under our natural genealogy when we receive Christ and believe in His Name (His Nature and Finished Work). We have the RIGHT to BECOME the children of God. The word RIGHT is "exousia" in Greek which has legal connotations. We know from Rom 8:14 that we have received the spirit of Sonship and we are now able to call God, ABBA FATHER.
Friends, what this simply means is that WE ARE UNDER A NEW GENEOLOGY. This is another powerful benefit of the New Covenant! Don't live another day under the Old Covenant. Embracing the New Covenant means embracing a NEW GENEOLOGY. This is how we break the Generational Curse over our lives.
Therefore we are no longer visited by iniquity either through our own sins or the sins of our fathers but we are visited by the lovingkindness and tender mercies of God each and every day of our lives!
Let's stand on this word, we are children of God and we have the RIGHT and the POWER to be one! Don't live another day under the OC. Enter into REST. Enter into the NC and into a New Genealogy. We are IN CHRIST and A NEW CREATION! 2 Cor 5:17
Samuel Hari @ GROW BM
Exo 34:6-7
Have we ever wondered when certain things happen in a repetitive manner in our lives or if there is no breakthrough in a certain area of prayer if there is some kind of generational curse operating? i.e. accidents, divorces, marital unfaithfulness, death through a certain disease, financial failures, depression, addictions. Even lust, adultery and fornication have some basis in generational curse.
Generational curses are very real and Satan often uses this as a means to cause calamities to occur in cycles in the lives of people. Are generational curses operating in our lives and how do we break these cycles over our lives?
God's nature of lovingkindness cannot tolerate any form of iniquity. He is so Holy, Loving and Just that sin cannot be found in His presence even as far as to the third and even the fourth generation. However, His lovingkindness FAR outweighs His judgment as His lovingkindness goes to a thousand generations!
God is ever ready to forgive iniquity, transgressions and sin. He is slow to anger and ABOUNDING in LOVE. In other words, God is waiting to forgive us, that is the nature of God. He still has to point out that He will punish our iniquities and His mind towards sin is consistent and unchanging.
So when bad things consistently take place in our lives, is it because of a generational curse or because of sin in our lives? Why do we continue to experience these things? How far back are we to go to breaking these curses?
Many of us have even been taught this scripture that one way we can be free from that cycle of disease, poverty, failure is by going back a couple of generations and breaking the curses in our lives.
But can we do that? Even now, many of us are probably having some sinful thought. There are opportunities everyday to sin. What about our parents if they are alive? How do stop them from sinning? What about sins that our grandfathers committed that we don't know about?
On the one hand God says He forgives iniquities to a thousand generations and on the other hand He says He will visit our iniquities to the third and fourth generation. We can say, to break out of that cycle, repent! I fully agree. But this is not talking about your sins but the sins of your father and grandfather! How are we going to repent for them? What to repent???
It almost seems unfair and impossible to break out of generational curses!
Joh 1:12-13
When we receive Jesus and believe in His Name, we have the right to become the children of God! This verse tells us that we are no longer under our natural genealogy when we receive Christ and believe in His Name (His Nature and Finished Work). We have the RIGHT to BECOME the children of God. The word RIGHT is "exousia" in Greek which has legal connotations. We know from Rom 8:14 that we have received the spirit of Sonship and we are now able to call God, ABBA FATHER.
Friends, what this simply means is that WE ARE UNDER A NEW GENEOLOGY. This is another powerful benefit of the New Covenant! Don't live another day under the Old Covenant. Embracing the New Covenant means embracing a NEW GENEOLOGY. This is how we break the Generational Curse over our lives.
Therefore we are no longer visited by iniquity either through our own sins or the sins of our fathers but we are visited by the lovingkindness and tender mercies of God each and every day of our lives!
Let's stand on this word, we are children of God and we have the RIGHT and the POWER to be one! Don't live another day under the OC. Enter into REST. Enter into the NC and into a New Genealogy. We are IN CHRIST and A NEW CREATION! 2 Cor 5:17
Samuel Hari @ GROW BM
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