Brief Exhortations And Applications From Various Verses

(Ninth One Hundred)

Written and/or Compiled by David J. Riggs

Note: These are also available in verse-by-verse format at:

http://mywebpages.comcast.net/davidriggs01/briefvs.htm

901. "You are our epistle written in our hearts, known and read by all men; clearly you are an epistle of Christ, ministered by us, written not with ink but by the Spirit of the living God, not on tablets of stone but on tablets of flesh, that is, of the heart." (2 Cor. 3:2-3)

Here are the words of an old song entitled, "The World's Bible."

Christ has no hands but our hands to do His work today;

He has no feet but our feet to lead men in His way; He has no tongue but our tongues to tell men how He died; He has no help but our help to bring them to His side.

We are the only Bible the careless world will read;

We are the sinner's gospel; we are the scoffer's creed; We are the Lord's last message given in deed and word. What if the type is crooked? What if the print is blurred?

902. "But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves." (James 1:22).

There is no benefit to a person when he receives instructions, but ignores them. There are many who, over the centuries, have heard the word of God, but did not respond to the commands found therein. The physician expects you to follow his instructions; the policeman expects you to follow his directions; and the judge expects you to follow his decrees. Yet, in religion, men daily ignore the plain commands found in the New Testament. Apparently, folks needed encouragement from the inspired James and it is still true that we are to do what the Lord says, not just hear the words of truth. (From James L. Yopp)

903. "These are grumblers, complainers, walking according to their own lusts; and they mouth great swelling words, flattering people to gain advantage." (Jude 1:16)

Some may remember the days when DC-7s were the fastest planes flying across the country. Their engines could annoy the eardrums as they also vibrated the cabin. On a night flight out of Los Angeles one passenger was finding it difficult to sleep and made a derogatory remark about the noisy engines. His companion, almost asleep, slowly drawled, "Let's not complain unless we do not hear the noise at all." (From Encyclopedia of Sermon Illustrations, compiled by David F. Burgess, p. 41)

Let us not be complainers unless the cause is absolutely just.

904. "And they continued steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in prayers." (Acts 2:42)

Editor Horace Greeley once received a letter from a woman stating that her church was in distressing straits. She wrote, "We have tried every device we could think of - fairs, strawberry festivals, oyster suppers, a donkey party, turkey banquets, Japanese weddings, poverty sociables, mock marriages, grab bags, box socials, and necktie sociables," and then she asked what device he would suggest to keep her struggling church from disbanding. Mr. Greeley briefly replied, "Try religion." (From Theodor Gracebner)

905. "And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching." (Heb. 10:24-25)

The way to conserve the heat of glowing coals is to keep them together. So the religious fervor of Christians is kept alive by frequent "gathering themselves together." (From A.H. Francke)

906. "For when we were still without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly. For scarcely for a righteous man will one die; yet perhaps for a good man someone would even dare to die. But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us." (Rom. 5:6-8)

What constitutes a person a Christian is this believing knowledge that he is a miserable, accursed sinner, who would be lost forever if Christ had not died for him. Unless a Christian clearly understands this fact, he ceases to be a Christian." (From. C.F.W. Walther)

Let us seek to daily remember and be grateful for the redemption we have in Christ. 1 Cor. 1:30 says, "But of Him you are in Christ Jesus, who became for us wisdom from God; and righteousness and sanctification and redemption..."

907. "See then that you walk circumspectly, not as fools but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be unwise, but understand what the will of the Lord is." (Eph. 5:15-17)

Once when Alexander the Great laid siege to a city, he had a great lamp set up, and he kept it burning night and day as a signal to the besieged. He sent word to the people in the city that while the lamp was burning, they had time to save themselves by surrender. But when the lamp was put out, the city and all that were in it would be destroyed without mercy.

So God has set up His light, the cross, and waits year after year, inviting people to come to Him that they might have light and salvation. Will you exhaust His patience? Redeem the time! (FromEncyclopedia of Sermon Illustrations, compiled by David F. Burgess, p. 53-54).

908. "You will be betrayed even by parents and brothers, relatives and friends; and they will put some of you to death. And you will be hated by all for My name's sake. But not a hair of your head shall be lost. By your patience possess your souls." (Luke 21:16-19) "Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life." (Rev. 2:10)

Dressed in the blue uniforms of the Union Army, with golden buttons gleaming, bands playing, flags flying, and horses neighing, this splendid army marched south to meet the Confederacy. A staff officer, watching them cross the river in southern Virginia, said, "If these soldiers were informed of the dangers ahead, they would not be marching off as if they were going to a picnic." Indeed, within two months 60 percent of those soldiers were dead.

We know there will be hardship, trouble, and tears ahead, but service to our great King, Jesus Christ, will eventually bring great reward.

909. "I tell you, no; but unless you repent you will all likewise perish." (Luke 13:3)

Many years ago, at the Portland navy yard a United States ship came in for repairs and fumigation as yellow fever had broken out among its crew during its previous voyage. The ship was thoroughly scraped and repainted and then put into commission again, but it was less than a month at sea when the fever appeared again. It was decided to open the ship and expose the fever spores to a thorough freezing during the winter, as medical men said that the spores could not live in cold weather. In the spring the ship was again painted and refurnished, but the fever appeared again. Then it was realized that, though a noble-looking vessel, death was in it, and it was towed to sea and sunk.

So it is with all who have not been born again; they carry within their hearts the seeds of a fatal fever, and unless they are cleansed from it by the blood of Christ, they will one day go down in the sea of the divine wrath. (From Encyclopedia of Sermon Illustrations, compiled by David F. Burgess, p. 51)

910. "The fool has said in his heart, 'There is no God.' They are corrupt, they have done abominable works, there is none who does good. The LORD looks down from heaven upon the children of men, to see if there are any who understand, who seek God." (Psalm 14:1-2)

There is one fact that opposes all the wit and argumentation of infidelity; namely, "No one has ever repented of being a Christian on his deathbed." Infidels are altogether different. Robert Ingersoll (1833-1899), the famous Atheist who bitterly opposed God and the Bible, is said to have stated on his deathbed, "Oh God, if there be a God, save my soul, if I have a soul, from hell, if there be a hell." Truly the fool has said in his heart, "There is no God."

911. "A righteous man regards the life of his animal, but the tender mercies of the wicked are cruel." (Prov. 12:10)

"Oh, the lying that is practiced beside many deathbeds! All are engaged in a conspiracy to deceive the victim. Truly, the tender mercies of the wicked are cruel. Every hint of death is forbidden; everything that could excite alarm is forbidden; a dying-chamber is turned into a stage for players who wipe away their tears before they enter, and wear a lying mask of ease and smiles and hope when hope itself is dead." (From Guthrie)

Not only do others deceive the dying, but the dying often deceive themselves. They deceive themselves into thinking they have many years remaining and there is no urgent need to prepare to meet God. God said to the man who thought he had many remaining years, "Thou fool, this night thy soul shall be required of thee." (Luke 12:20)

912. "But I do not want you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning those who have fallen asleep, lest you sorrow as others who have no hope." (1 Thess. 4:13)

Years ago, Robert Ingersoll, the infidel, delivered a funeral oration at the grave of the child of an intimate friend. There was deep sorrow in that home, and a word of cheer and hope was sorely needed, but the infidel Ingersoll had to content himself with vague sayings clothed in beautiful rhetoric. He spoke of human affection. And his thoughts could wing their flight to no higher realm, could offer no better comfort than was expressed in his one sentence, much quoted since: "It is better to have loved and lost than never to have loved at all." How pitifully inadequate, yea, bankrupt, unbelief proves to be when confronted by death and the grave! (From Encyclopedia of Sermons illustrations, compiled by David F. Burgess, p. 58)

913. God "will render to each one according to his deeds: eternal life to those who by patient continuance in doing good seek for glory, honor, and immortality; but to those who are self-seeking and do not obey the truth, but obey unrighteousness; indignation and wrath, tribulation and anguish, on every soul of man who does evil, of the Jew first and also of the Greek..." (Rom. 2:6-9)

Definition of Success

He has achieved success who has lived well, laughed often and loved much; who has enjoyed the trust of pure women and the love of little children; who has filled his niche and accomplished his task; who has left the world better than he found it, whether by an improved poppy, a perfect poem or a rescued soul; who has never lacked appreciation of earth's beauty or failed to express it; who has always looked for the best in others and given them the best he had; whose life was an inspiration; whose memory a benediction. (Written in 1904 by Bessie Anderson)

Anyone who saves his own soul has been truly successful in life, and anyone who loses his soul has been a complete failure.

914. "This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate in it day and night, that you may observe to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success." (Joshua 1:8)

The A, B, Cs of Success

Attend carefully to details of your business.

Be prompt in all things.

Consider well, then decide positively.

Dare to do right, fear to do wrong.

Endure trials patiently.

Fight life's battle bravely.

Give your best to God.

Hold integrity sacred.

Injure not another's reputation nor business.

Join hands only with the virtuous.

Keep your mind from evil thoughts.

Lie not for any consideration.

Make new acquaintances.

Never try to appear what you are not.

Observe good manners.

Pay your debts promptly.

Question not the veracity of a friend indeed.

Respect the counsel of your parents.

Sacrifice money rather than principle.

Touch not, taste not, handle not intoxicants.

Use your leisure time for improvements.

Venture not upon the threshold of wrong.

Watch carefully over your passions.

X-Ray your spiritual self often, and adjust.

Yield not to discouragement.

Zealously labor for the right.

(Author Unknown)

915. "...In whom we have boldness and access with confidence through faith in Him." (Eph. 3:12)

A man paid a visit to his local psychologist. When the doctor asked him what had prompted his visit, the man said, "I'm suffering from an inferiority complex." In the ensuing weeks, the psychologist put his new patient through an intensive battery of tests. Next came the long wait while the test results were tabulated and evaluated. Finally, the doctor called the man and asked him to return to the clinic. "I have some interesting news for you," the doctor began. "What's that?" Asked the man. "It's no complex," the psychologist replied, "You are inferior."

Only a life based on following God will provide a lasting, real sense of self-worth. The Scriptures will give us a true picture of who we are, who we ought to be, and with God's help, who we can become.

916. "And as it is appointed for men to die once, but after this the judgment, so Christ was offered once to bear the sins of many." (Heb. 9:27-28)

Death is the most powerful and effective preacher the children of this world have. Though they avoid all churches and despise all preachers of God's Word, yet one preacher - death - they are compelled to hear. His church is the earth, his pulpit the deathbed, casket, hearse, grave, and cemetery. With a heart-rending voice he cries out, "O man, it is appointed unto you to die; you have no continuing city in this world, this earth is not your home, this life does not finish your course. In an hour unknown to you, you will leave this world with all its treasures. Oh, repent, repent!" (From C.F.W. Walther)

917. "I tell you, no; but unless you repent you will all likewise perish." (Luke 13:3)

Hannibal, after the grand victory at Cannae, could have taken the city of Rome with comparative ease. However, he neglected to take advantage of the opportunity. Some time later, when he attempted to take Rome, a terrible storm prevented him from doing so. At that time, he is said to have exclaimed, "When I could, I would not; and now when I will, I cannot.

So it is with all who delay their repentance. Having time to be reconciled to God they will not, but if they continue to resist, the time will come when they cannot. (From Encyclopedia of Sermon Illustrations, compiled by David F. Burgess, p. 59)

918. "Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it." (Prov. 22:6)

Time magazine recently reported on a math test given to thirteen-year-olds from six countries. The South Koreans received the best scores and the Americans received the worst. Those taking the test were also asked to respond to the statement, "I am good at mathematics." Only 23 percent of the Koreans responded affirmatively to that statement -- the lowest percentage, while the Americans came in number one with the highest number of "yes" answers. American students may not know math, but they have evidently absorbed the lessons of the newly fashionable self-esteem curriculum wherein kids are taught to feel good about themselves.

Our society teaches children that they are special, unique, and wonderful, without teaching them the responsibilities which make them special, unique, and wonderful.

919. "He who walks with integrity walks securely, but he who perverts his ways will become known." (Prov. 10:9)

Alfred Whitney Griswold, who was president of Yale University, said: "Self-respect cannot be hunted. It cannot be purchased. It is never for sale. It cannot be fabricated out of public relations. It comes to us when we are alone, in quiet moments, in quiet places, when we suddenly realize that, knowing the good, we have done it; knowing the beautiful, we have served it; knowing the truth, we have spoken it."

920. "Trust in Him at all times, you people; pour out your heart before Him; God is a refuge for us." (Psalm 62:8)

The trend of government is to undergird us with material securities from the cradle to the grave, providing all kinds of insurance--health, old-age, education, unemployment and so on. In addition, we insure ourselves against fire, earthquake, hurricane, accident and old age. These safeguards are not wrong, but they can very easily become a serious hindrance to our complete trust in God. Undoubtedly, if our debts are paid and our refrigerator full, if we have money in the bank, we have a tendency to feel secure in ourselves and to sense our need of God less. Herein lies the danger. My greatest need is to feel and know my need of God every hour. (From C. Stacy Woods)

921. "But someone will say, 'You have faith, and I have works.' Show me your faith without your works, and I will show you my faith by my works." (James 2:18)

In 1893, engineer George Ferris built a machine that bears his name--the Ferris wheel. When it was finished, he invited a newspaper reporter to accompany him and his wife for the inaugural ride. It was a windy July day, so a stiff breeze struck the wheel with great force as it slowly began its rotation. Despite the wind, the wheel turned flawlessly. After one revolution, Ferris called for the machine to be stopped so that he, his wife, and the reporter could step out. In braving that one revolution on the windblown Ferris wheel, each occupant demonstrated genuine faith. Mr. Ferris began with the scientific knowledge that the machine would work and that it would be safe. Mrs. Ferris and the reporter believed the machine would work on the basis of what the inventor had said. But only after the ride could it be said of all three that they had personal, experiential faith. (Author Unknown)

922. "Then He said to them all, 'If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me.'" (Luke 9:23)

Some years ago some enterprising capitalist was planning to build a bridge on the Sea of Galilee. What makes this project unique is that it is not being built OVER the water. It is being built UNDER the water. A 28-foot-long floating bridge will be submerged 2 inches below the surface so that tourists will be able to "walk on the water" just as Jesus did. Perhaps their next project should be to build a hot air balloon on the Mount of Olives so that tourists will be able to imitate Jesus' ascension into heaven! (From Jerry Gentile)

The bridge builder needs to understand that Jesus does not want people to imitate His walking on water via a submerged bridge, but He wants them to imitate His way of life. Titus 2:11-12 says, "For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men, teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly in the present age..."

923. "For unto us a Child is born, unto us a Son is given; and the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of His government and peace there will be no end, upon the throne of David and over His kingdom, to order it and establish it with judgment and justice from that time forward, even forever." (Isa. 9:6-7)

Media tycoon Ted Turner wanted to see if anybody has a real vision of a future world at peace and in harmony with the environment. He said his quest ended in disappointment. Turner told an Atlanta gathering of contributors to his Cable News Network's World Report last week that he funded a competition to find a book that gave a workable plan for a world of peace. "With 10,000 manuscripts, we did not have one plausible treatise on how we could get to a sustainable, peaceful future," Turner told the gathering. (From The Columbus Dispatch, 5-10-93, p. 2B)

It's too bad that Mr. Turner didn't read the manuscript about the Prince of Peace.

924. "Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth." (2 Tim. 2:15)

A man had three sons. He wanted to test their ability to discern; so he gave each of them a piece of an apple with a rotten spot on it. The first ate the whole thing; the second threw the whole thing away; and the third separated the bad and ate the good. The father noted that the third was the wisest, and explained, "When we receive instruction, some of us believe everything we hear; others reject everything because some is bad; but the wise separate the bad from the good and benefit from the good." (Author Unknown)

925. "...As newborn babes, desire the pure milk of the word, that you may grow thereby..." (1 Pet. 2:2)
If a wife cooked a hot nourishing meal for her family, she would expect all to gather around the table with a hearty appetite. If some of the family had a pattern of not coming to eat, she would think something was wrong. It isn't normal for people to miss meals. She might ask, "Are you feeling well?" or "Is anything wrong?"

Motivation to learn, and grow, and be fed by God's Word is certainly as necessary for our spirit as any physical meal is for our body. If that motivation is missing, we might ask the same questions a mother would ask, "What is wrong?" "Are you okay?" A hearty appetite is a good sign that all is well. How is your spiritual appetite? (Author Unknown)

926. "These are grumblers, complainers, walking according to their own lusts; and they mouth great swelling words, flattering people to gain advantage." (Jude 16)

A farmer came into town and asked the owner of a restaurant if he could use a million frog legs. Naturally, being rather shocked, he asked the farmer where he could get so many. The farmer replied, "There's a pond near my house that is full of frogs. They croak night and day and are about to drive my crazy." Finally, an agreement was made for the farmer to bring in several hundred frog legs the following week.

A week later, the farmer returned, looking rather sheepish, with two scrawny little frogs. He told the proprietor, "I was mistaken. There were only these two frogs in that pond. But they sure were making a lot of noise."

The next time you hear someone criticizing the elders, preacher, or some members of the church, remember this story. It is probably no more than a couple of chronic grouches who have nothing more to do than to croak. (Author Unknown)

927. "For whatever is born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world; our faith." (1 John 5:4)

Ships nearing a dangerous shore in a violent storm throw out an anchor. This has a twofold effect. It keeps the vessel from being driven toward the rocks that line the shore and from being dashed to pieces on them, and it holds the nose (or bow) of the vessel straight into the wind, so that the onrushing waves are cut in two and do not strike the ship sideways and swamp it.

The faith of Christians holds them safely in the midst of storms of life, so that they are kept from being swamped by the waves of adversity or dashed to pieces on the rocks of despair. (FromEncyclopedia of Sermon Illustrations, compiled by David F. Burgess, p. 74-75)

928. "He who is slow to anger is better than the mighty, and he who rules his spirit than he who takes a city." (Prov. 16:32)

In a department store, a young husband was minding the baby while his wife was making a purchase. The infant was wailing, but the father seemed quite unperturbed as he quietly said, "Easy now, Albert," he murmured, "keep your temper." A woman passing by remarked, "I must congratulate you! You seem to know just how to speak to a baby." "Baby nothing!" came the reply. "MY name is Albert!" (From Bible Illustrator)

What ever it takes, let us learn to control ourselves and not fly off the handle.

929. "Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you." (1 Thess. 5:16-18)

A farmer was paid a visit by one of his city relatives. Before dinner the farmer bowed his head and gave thanks. His sophisticated relative jeered, "This is old-fashioned; nobody with an education prays at the table anymore." The farmer acknowledged that the practice was old and even admitted that there were some on his farm who did not pray before their meals. Justified, the relative remarked, "So enlightenment has finally reached the farm. Who are these wise ones?" The farmer replied, "My pigs." (From Illustrations Unlimited, by James S. Hewett, p. 423)

930. "Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: fear God and keep His commandments, for this is man's all. For God will bring every work into judgment, including every secret thing, whether good or evil." (Eccl. 12:13-14)

One rainy Sunday afternoon, a father was babysitting his children and had the task of keeping them entertained. He assigned specific tasks to each child. To keep his ten-year-old son busy, he had torn a full page map of the United States out of a magazine, cut it into small pieces, and told his son to reassemble it as a jigsaw puzzle.

To the father's amazement, his son presented him with the completed puzzle in just a few minutes. "How did you do it, son?" he asked. "It was easy," the boy replied. "At first, when I tried to fit together all those little lines and dots and the small print on the map, it looked like an impossible job. Then I saw part of a man's face on the back of one of the pieces. So I turned the pieces over, and when I got the man together, the United States took care of itself." (From Encyclopedia of Sermon Illustrations, compiled by David F. Burgess, p. 75)

When we "get the man together" by teaching him to fear God and keep His commandments, the United States will take care of itself; but every nation that turns from God is destined to fall. Psalm 9:17 says, "The wicked shall be turned into hell, and all the nations that forget God."

931. "Jesus said to him, 'I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.'" (John 14:6)

When a mariner has lost his path on the lone and trackless ocean - when his vessel is tossed by the angry winds and waves, no shore appears in sight, no compass can fix his location - if he can succeed in discovering one particular star, the polestar, he can secure his bearings.

People may be compared to such a storm-beaten mariner. Seated in a frail canoe, they are being irresistibly carried forward on the whirling current of the stream of time; the shore from which they set out in infancy has long faded from sight; no map tells the location of the land to which they are steering on the broad expanse of time.

Yet, if they can focus the telescope of Christian faith on one bright luminary, the guiding polestar, then no matter how the waves or life's dispensation may rise and the winds rage, they have a definite aim, a safe and solid mooring, and can continue their rote with cheerfulness and confidence of heart. That star - the unchangeable One - is Jesus. (From Encyclopedia of Sermon Illustrations compiled by David F. Burgess, p.63)

932. "For in the time of trouble He shall hide me in His pavilion; in the secret place of His tabernacle He shall hide me; He shall set me high upon a rock." (Psalm 27:5)

A believer was fleeing from his enemies during a persecution in North Africa. Pursued over a hill and through a valley with no place to hide, he fell exhausted into a cave, expecting to be caught. Awaiting his death, he saw a spider weaving a web. Within minutes, the spider had woven a beautiful web across the mouth of the cave. The man's pursuers arrived, but on seeing the unbroken web assumed it impossible for him to have entered the cave. Later that believer exclaimed, "Where God is, a spider's web is like a wall. Where God is not, a wall is like a spider's web."

Few things offer security to believers more than an awareness that God will use His overcoming power to protect them. (From Bible Illustrator)

933. "Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say, rejoice!" (Phil. 4:4) "Do not sorrow, for the joy of the LORD is your strength." (Neh. 8:10)

Simple Rules for Happy Living:

1. Count your blessings, not your troubles.

2. Live one day at a time.

3. Learn to say "I love you" to those dear to you.

4. Be a giver, not a receiver.

5. Look for good in everyone.

6. Pray often.

7. Do a good deed every day.

8. Put first things first.

9. Fill your mind with good things.

10. Laugh and cry with others.

11. Make happiness a habit.

12. Let Christ rule in your heart and life.

(Author Unknown)

934. "Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand." (Eph. 6:13)

When the Confederates were falling back at Bull Run, General Lee rallied his men by calling out, "Look to Jackson! There he stands like a wall!" That statement made Jackson famous both in the North and South and in history. He was thereafter known as "Stonewall Jackson."

Likewise, Christians should stand as firm as a wall in overcoming temptations and defending the gospel. Christians are able to stand firm when they put on the whole armor of God.

935. "...Who gave Himself for us, that He might redeem us from every lawless deed and purify for Himself His own special people, zealous for good works." (Titus 2:14)

After the Battle of Lookout Mountain, when the Federal troops cleared the heights with an irresistible dash, General Grant sent to General Woods and asked, "Did you order the charge?" He said, "No." To Hooker and Sheridan the same inquiry was made, and from them the same response was received.

The men had been filled with such enthusiasm that nothing could have stopped them. They leaped to the fray, defying danger and death, and when the victory was gained, they were filled with glad wonder at it.

So it is with Christians. When their hearts are filled with faith and enthusiasm, they will be heartily active in love and good works. (From Encyclopedia of Sermon Illustrations, compiled by David F. Burgess, p. 75)

936. "Behold, the eye of the LORD is on those who fear Him, on those who hope in His mercy, to deliver their soul from death, and to keep them alive in famine. Our soul waits for the LORD; He is our help and our shield. For our heart shall rejoice in Him, because we have trusted in His holy name." (Psalm 33:18-21)

In his ten years on the PGA Tour, Paul Azinger won 11 tournaments, including the 1993 PGA Championship. But after that triumph, the robust golf pro was diagnosed with lymphoma cancer. Chemotherapy treatments followed, leaving Azinger sometimes vomiting and "dry heaving" for 20 minutes of every hour. Azinger reflects, "Now I know when you're 33 you're not bullet-proof. I'm as vulnerable as the next guy. None of us is promised tomorrow, so we need to live every day to the fullest...Today I'm grateful for even the smallest blessings -- for a roof over my head, for food in my stomach, that I can smell, that my hair is going to grow back. Those are things I took for granted, but never again." (From Alan Hoskins)

Indeed, let us take nothing for granted, but in everything give thanks.

937. "Wealth makes many friends, but the poor is separated from his friend." (Prov. 19:4) "The poor man is hated even by his own neighbor, but the rich has many friends." (Prov. 14:20)

Have you ever seen ants swarm over the flower bud of the opening peony? How they cling to it! Is it because they love flowers? No! It is so that they may lick up the sugary secretion of the bud.

Likewise, there are many who cling to people, not because they love them, but because of what they can get out of them. (From Encyclopedia of Sermon Illustrations, compiled by David F. Burgess, p. 83)

938. "Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid." (John 14:27)

A true story: A retired couple was alarmed by the threat of nuclear war so they undertook a serious study of all the inhabited places on the globe. Their goal was to determine where in the world would be the place to be least likely affected by a nuclear war. A place of ultimate security. They studied and traveled, traveled and studied. Finally they found the place. And on Christmas they sent their pastor a card from their new home--in the Falkland Islands. However, their "paradise" was soon turned into a war zone by Great Britain and Argentina. (From Illustrations Unlimited, by James S. Hewett, p. 402)

Only in Christ is true and lasting peace which will never be taken away.

939. "I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly." (John 10:10)

Christ Our Savior

He descended that we might ascend (John 6:38; 14:3).

He became poor that we might become rich (2 Cor. 8:9; Jas. 2:5).

He was born that we might be born again (John 1:14; 3:2,7).

He became a servant that we might become sons (Phil. 2:7; Gal. 4:6, 7).

He had no home that we might have a home in heaven (Matt. 8:20; John 14:2).

He was hungry that we might be fed (Matt. 4:2; John 6:50).

He was thirsty that we might be satisfied (John 19:28).

He was stripped that we might be clothed (Matt. 27:28; Gal. 3:27).

He was forsaken that we might not be forsaken (Matt. 27:26; 28:20).

He was sad that we might become glad (Isa. 53:3; Phil. 4:4).

He was bound that we might go free (Matt. 27:2; John 8:32-36).

He was made sin that we might be made righteous (2 Cor. 5:21).

He died that we might live (John 5:24- 25).

(From Larry Farthing)

940. "...Lest Satan should take advantage of us; for we are not ignorant of his devices." (2 Cor. 2:11) "Resist the devil and he will flee from you." (James 4:7)

Nature provides a fitting illustration of Satan's tactics. Observers tell us that in the spring of the year the cuckoo bird can be seen mimicking the flight of the sparrow hawk. Flapping, gliding, and soaring like a natural predator, this imposter frightens songbirds and distracts them to the point that they leave their nests unattended. She then moves in and devours an unguarded egg, leaving one of her own in its place. (From Bible Illustrator)

Of course, the cuckoo bird is only doing what its designer programmed it to do. Satan, however, is an evil, intelligent spirit being who has many devices and thousands of years of experience. May we resist him with all of our being.

941. "Though I walk in the midst of trouble, You will revive me..." (Psalm 138:7)

The water spider lives at the bottom of muddy pools and has the distinctive power of ascending to the surface of the pool and there surrounding itself with a tiny globule of air. Thus enveloped it descends to the sludge and ooze at the bottom of the pool and remains there unsullied by its environment until the air is exhausted. Then it rises again to the surface and the process is repeated. (From Illustrations of Bible Truths, Compiled by Ruth Peters, p. 66)

Likewise, Christians find rejuvenation by worshiping regularly with the saints. Through Bible study, worship, and fellowship with those of like precious faith, they can continue to be unsullied by the hostile environment of the world.

942. "But no man can tame the tongue. It is an unruly evil, full of deadly poison." (James 3:8) "Their throat is an open tomb; with their tongues they have practiced deceit; the poison of asps is under their lips; whose mouth is full of cursing and bitterness." (Rom 3:13-14)

The fangs of venomous snakes consist of grooved or hollowed teeth that are connected with sacs of poison in the snake's cheek. When it strikes, a snake uses a squeeze-bottle technique that squirts a jet stream of venom into its victim. In less than half a second the reptile can strike, inject, and return to normal stance. So poisonous is the venom of some species, such as the African mamba, that men have died in less than a minute. (Author Unknown)

Similar to a poisonous snake, the tongue can do a lot of damage in a short amount of time. Prov. 17:9 says, "He who covers a transgression seeks love, but he who repeats a matter separates friends."

943. "For you are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus. For as many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ." (Gal. 3:26-27)

Two friends went for a boat ride. The boat upset. The river was swift and deep. The man to whom the boat belonged had taken two life jackets along. He said "I put one on, but my friend laid his down beside him. When we were thrown into the river, my life jacket soon brought me to the top, but my friend never came up again." (From Bible Illustrator)

Christ, like the life jacket, will not save us unless we by faith put Him on.

944. "...But to those who are self-seeking and do not obey the truth, but obey unrighteousness; indignation and wrath, tribulation and anguish, on every soul of man who does evil, of the Jew first and also of the Greek..." (Rom. 2:8-9)

The term "self-seeking" means literally "electioneering or intriguing for office." The Bible Dictionary by Arndt & Ginrich says, "This word is found before NT times only in Aristotle where it denotes a self-seeking pursuit of political office by unfair means." Politicians often "put themselves forward" in order to be elected. Paul exhorts us to not put ourselves forward or to be selfish (Phil. 2:3). James speaks against having self-seeking or self-promoting in our hearts (James 3:14 ). Many people seek to serve and please themselves rather than God (Phil. 3:19) A basic principle of Christianity is the denial of oneself (Luke 9:23).

945. "And he took him by the right hand and lifted him up, and immediately his feet and ankle bones received strength. So he, leaping up, stood and walked and entered the temple with them; walking, leaping, and praising God." (Acts 3:7-9)

The miracles performed during the days of the apostles and inspired men were immediate. In fact, the word is used several times in the New Testament to describe the quickness with which the power of God took place. Those who claim to work miracles today are deceiving people with "lying wonders" (II Thessalonians 2:9). This writer has challenged many to prove their claims by performing a miracle. Not one single individual has done such! They have tried, even going from bed to bed to try to heal the sick, but not one succeeded. They have no such power. There is nothing in the New Testament that teaches miracles would continue beyond the days of the apostles. The burden of proof rests upon those false teachers who offer to men what they cannot give! You have every right to demand the proof from them of their claims through just one miracle. My friend, it cannot (and will not) be done. (From James Yopp)

We add to the above that even the enemies could not deny the miracles of the inspired men (Acts 4:16). The modern day faith healers consider us their enemies because we deny their claims. If we are the enemies, we ask, "Where are the miracles which we cannot deny?" The faith healers make boastful claims, but give no proof. The inspired men made no boastful claims, but simply went about demonstrating their power (2 Cor. 12:12).

946. "This is a faithful saying, and these things I want you to affirm constantly, that those who have believed in God should be careful to maintain good works." (Titus 3:8)

A woman was being shown through a grinding mill which was powered by a river that ran close by the wall. All the wheels were silent and still. "Where is the power?" she asked. She was shown a handle and was told to press it. She did, and the mighty force was instantly turned on, the wheels moved, and the place was alive with activity.

So it is where there is strong faith. Those who have true faith will be active in good works.

947. "Then he said to Jesus, 'Lord, remember me when You come into Your kingdom.' And Jesus said to him, 'Assuredly, I say to you, today you will be with Me in Paradise.'" (Luke 23:42-43)

On the tombstone of the learned scientist and renowned astronomer Copernicus (1473-1543), this Latin inscription, composed by him, is engraved: "Not for the grace of Paul do I ask, nor for the pardon once shown to Peter; only the forgiveness bestowed upon the thief of the cross do I petition."

May our hearts be fixed on Christ as our only Savior and hope, both now and when we take our last breath. We ask for the grace given to Paul, the pardon shown to Peter, and the forgiveness bestowed on the thief.

948. "...Being justified freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus..." (Rom. 3:24)

Amazing grace how sweet the sound that saved a wretch like me!

I once was lost, but now I'm found, was blind but now I see.

'Twas grace that taught my heart to fear, and grace my fears relieved;

How precious did that grace appear the hour I first believed.

Thru many dangers, toils and snares, I have already come;

'Twas grace that bro't me safe thus far, and grace will lead me home.

The Lord has promised good to me, His word my hope secures;

He will my shield and portion be as long as life endures.

When we've been there ten thousand years, bright shining as the sun;

We've no less days to sing God's praise than when we first begun.

(By John Newton, 1779)

949. "Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith." (Gal. 6:10)

Dr. William L. Stidger told in Guidepost (November 1953) that he decided one evening to write to his boyhood schoolteacher and thank her for awakening in him a love for English poetry.

Weeks later the lonely woman wrote to him: "I want to let you know what your note meant to me. I am an old lady in my eighties, living alone in a small room, like the last leaf on a tree. I taught fifty years; yet in all that time yours is the first letter of appreciation I have ever received. It came on a blue, cold morning and cheered my lonely heart as nothing has in many years."

From that time on until his death, Dr. Stidger wrote thank-you notes to many for the little things and many favors shown to him over the years. (From Encyclopedia of Sermon Illustrations, compiled by David F. Burgess, p. 93)

950. "In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you." (1 Thess. 5:18)

If one should give me a dish of sand and tell me there were particles of iron in it, I might look for them with my eyes and search for them with my clumsy fingers and be unable to detect them. But let me take a magnet and sweep through it, and it will draw to itself the almost invisible particles.

The unthankful heart, like my fingers in the sand, discovers no blessings, but the thankful heart sweeps through life and, as the magnet finds the iron, discovers manifold heavenly blessings. (From Beecher)

951. "In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while, if need be, you have been grieved by various trials, that the genuineness of your faith, being much more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tested by fire, may be found to praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ..." (1 Pet. 1:6-7)

In the early 1970s the firefighters of Fairfax County, Virginia, received new helmets. They were sharp looking, colorful, size-adjustable, made of high-impact plastic, and scuff resistant. There was only one problem with the helmets: when they were worn near the heat of a fire, they melted. This, of course, made them useless to firefighters; they needed helmets that could take the heat.

In the same way, we need a faith that can take the heat - a faith that endures the fire and protects us in the midst of the blaze. (From 1,001 Contemporary Illustrations, Vol. 1 - Adversity)

952. "And the things that you have heard from me among many witnesses, commit these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also." (2 Tim. 2:2)

Qualities Of A Good Teacher:

1. Prepared

2. Enthusiastic

3. Personal

4. Sensitive

5. Visionary

6. Prompt

7. Responsible

8. Creative

9. Teachable

10. Loving

(Author Unknown)

953. "Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth." (2 Tim. 2:15)

Qualities Of Good Students:

1. Be present, prompt

2. Come prepared

3. Have reverence

4. Be a good listener

5. Cast aside preconceived ideas

6. Ask questions to learn

7. Add encouragement

8. Avoid unprofitable things

9. Test every teacher

10. Practice what you learn

954. "And if you call on the Father, who without partiality judges according to each one's work, conduct yourselves throughout the time of your stay here in fear..." (1 Pet. 1:17)

The story is told regarding President Garfield's first Saturday in Washington as President. A member of the Cabinet insisted that a Cabinet meeting be called at 10:00 a.m., the following day, to handle a matter that threatened a national crisis. Garfield refused on the ground that he had another engagement. The Cabinet member then insisted that the national matter was of such grave importance that the President should break the engagement. Garfield refused. Then the Cabinet member remarked, "I should be interested to know with whom you could have an engagement so important that it could not be broken."

Garfield replied, "I will be as frank as you are. My engagement is with my Lord to meet Him at His house and at His table at 10:30 tomorrow, and I shall be there." He was there. The crisis passed. The nation survived, and President Garfield was found faithful to his higher obligation. (From The Sword and Staff, Vol. 40, No. 3, p. 15)

955. "For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul? Or what will a man give in exchange for his soul?" (Matt. 16:26)

Have You Thought About Your Soul?

Have you ever stopped to wonder what this life is all about,

From where you came and where you're going, when your lease on time is out?

Perhaps you've been far too busy trying hard to reach your goal.

May I ask you a question kindly, have you thought about your soul? You may reach the highest portal and your dreams may all come true. Fame and fortune may be your portion and success may smile on you; All your friends may sing your praises, not a care on you to roll; How about the great tomorrow, have your thought about your soul?

Remember your days are numbered though you may be riding high;

But just like any other mortal one day you'll up and die.

Then all your fame and wealth and glory won't be worth the bell they toll;

May I ask you just one question, have you thought about your soul? If you haven't thought about it, stop and think of it today; For there's nothing more important that will ever come your way. Than the joy of sin forgiven and to know you've been made whole; In the name of Christ your Savior, stop and think about your soul.

(Author unknown)

956. "But if you bite and devour one another, beware lest you be consumed by one another!" (Gal. 5:15)

There is a story about a husband and wife who were continually arguing over whether or not the window should be open or closed when they slept at night. The man insisted that the window be open, otherwise it would be stuffy and hot. The wife insisted that the window be closed, otherwise it would be too cold. One night he said the window must be open for he felt hot, but she insisted that it be closed for she felt cold. He opened it, she closed it - open, close; open, close; over and over again.

Finally, without turning on a light, the husband picked up a stool and threw it at the window. Glass shattered everywhere. They went to sleep and in the early morning, just before daybreak, the man said he had never slept better with the fresh air coming in. She replied that she hardly slept a wink, but nearly froze to death.

When they turned on the light, the window was not broken, but the mirror beside it was!

Those who bite and devour one another will eventually be destroyed by one another.

957. "They speak idly everyone with his neighbor; with flattering lips and a double heart they speak." (Psalm 12:2)

Eugene Exman once told the story of a rather sour old man who had decided to retire from a British publishing company at the age of 70. They gave him the usual dinner. Associates, happy that he was going, tried to outdo each other in the praise they gave to the old fellow. When the time came for the old man to respond, he replied, "I had no idea I was held in such esteem. I shall stay on."

Job 32:21-22 says,"Let me not, I pray, show partiality to anyone; nor let me flatter any man. For I do not know how to flatter, else my Maker would soon take me away."

958."Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, and into His courts with praise. Be thankful to Him, and bless His name." (Psalm 100:4)

The early Pilgrims, after those first hard years, had a custom for a while that at their Thanksgiving Day dinner there would be five kernels of corn on each plate. Before the big meal each person would be required to mention five things for which to be thankful. The five kernels reminded them that at one time that was the daily allotment of corn - five kernels per person per day.

Instead of complaining about our hardships and problems, let us enumerate the things for which we can be thankful.

959. "And I will say to my soul, 'Soul, you have many goods laid up for many years; take your ease; eat, drink, and be merry.' But God said to him, 'Fool! This night your soul will be required of you; then whose will those things be which you have provided?' So is he who lays up treasure for himself, and is not rich toward God." (Luke 12:19-21)

Years ago when men went to Alaska to search for gold, some penetrated far into the interior. There they discovered a miner's hut that seemed as quiet as a grave. Entering it, they found the skeletons of two men, and a very large quantity of gold on a rough table. There was also a letter that told about their successful hunt for gold. They were so eager to get gold that they ignored the early coming of winter. The more they mined, the more gold they found. Suddenly one day, a fierce snowstorm struck. They could not escape the blizzard conditions. Their food ran out. They were unable to move about in their cabin. They became so weakened that they laid down to die, surrounded by all that gold.

There are many people like those two foolish miners. They labor for wealth, property, and the status symbols on earth. Suddenly, the icy hand of death is on them, and what have they to show for their labors? What have their labors accomplished? Jesus asks a very important question, and all of us need to consider and answer it: "For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul? Or what will a man give in exchange for his soul?" (Matt. 16:26) (From Encyclopedia of Sermon Illustrations, compiled by David F. Burgess, p. 95)

960. "Hatred stirs up strife, but love covers all sins." (Prov. 10:12) "Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good. (Rom. 12:21)

In Chicago's West Side residential district two neighbors who had lived side by side in perfect harmony for years became involved in a bitter quarrel. Their anger took on grave proportions. Out of spite, one of them built a brick fence 20 feet high. He found out, however, that his fence shut out much of the sunshine and light he had previously enjoyed. Also, he found out that his high fence was illegal.

The man who hates often suffers more than the one who is hated.