According to the POWER

Ephesians 3:14 -21 NKJV 14 For this reason I bow my knees to the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, 15 from whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named, 16 that He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with might through His Spirit in the inner man 17 that Christ may dwell in our hearts through faith; that you, being rooted and grounded in love, 18 may be able to comprehend with all the saints what is the width and length and depth and height-----19 to know the love of Christ which passes knowledge; that you may be filled with all the fullness of God. 20 Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us, 21 to Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. Amen.

Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us, to Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. Amen. It is all about the power of God to live in this hour!

 John 1:3 All things we made through Him, and without Him nothing was made that was made. Colossians 1:16 For by Him all things were created that are in heaven and that are on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions, principalities or powers. All thing were created through Him and for Him. 17 And He is before all things, and in Him all things consist.

Even satan was created by God! Satan an instrument for praise and still the angel got it wrong. Still the power of God is available to them who believe in Jesus: the Way, truth and life!   In the counsel of His will, God’s eternal and unchangeable plan is revealed. He is strong in purpose and He is the ground, the foundation of truth. It is He Who has gathered the fragmented and the alienated and brought us into His kingdom purpose!

In car or truck engineering, parts are made. There is the engine, the transmission, a carburetor and what style you prefer, whether a car or truck, an SUV or a utility truck, power is looked upon for making a difference whether you want to get there on time or driving a 4 cylinder when you do not care what time you arrive!

I have written on this before about some seven years ago and thought to add it in your reading today. In my youth, muscle cars were supreme. The word we heard a lot around the school grounds or in the town was when there was going to be race to test those muscle cars. In my hearing, I heard PINKS all OUT! So anyone who had a really supped up car and willing to stand against another had to have some power under the hood and with the edge to win! Now that pink sheet would be given  over by owner of said car if they lost the race to the other racer. It would be a vehicle paid for and have a clear title.

 On arriving at their destination for the race, the drivers would raise their hoods to show the amount of work, and much money they had under that hood. The sight would reveal an engine enthusiast when chrome was revealed! Next the engine sound would be heard. Some thought this exhilarating, others thought it unwise indeed!  PINKS all Out meant they willing to give up that car if they lost, but that was not in their thinking at all. They knew the work they put into that car, how many hours of late night work on it and how much a loss could cause them that of having no ride anywhere!

 Do we ever think of the power we have when we put in God’s word in our heart, speak it out with authority knowing we have all of heaven backing us up by that word. His word will take us places we have never been and to do things we have never done! Just ask me!

Human will and the whole inner man’s life is involved in the renewal. If God is our Father: as Truth applies, then we are born again unto His kingdom.  Cultivating that relationship that is spiritual connects with the inner man:   Ephesians 3:16 that he would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with might through His Spirit in the inner man. 17 that Christ may dwell in our hearts through faith; that you being rooted and grounded in love.

Connecting to the Holy Spirit by our inner man, we become mighty by His power, rooted in the kingdom of God, grounded on a strong foundation and to comprehend it by an experience, not simply just to understand by intellect!

Back in those days of street racing: one had to know how his car would run in a race. The person, male or female, would do a  lot of study and most likely would have had some machine shop class in their high school curriculum. There would have been a lot of reading on engines, transmissions, cylinders, carburetor, spark plugs, tires, and some wheel coverings and special paint!

Now when a child, I knew only 8 -cylinders amounted to power and the right way to go! And you could see that power in a vehicle when going over passes within steep mountainous regions going either east or west.  Now a cylinder for some who do not know, is a vital part of the engine. It’s chamber where fuel is combusted and power is generated. The cylinder consists of a piston and two halves at the top. It has an inlet and an exhaust valves. It is the piston which moves up and down, and its reciprocation motion generates power that moves your vehicle on the straight and narrow and up a mountainous region and over to see the plains of the mid-west!

So too, we are a vessel, that which can hold the power of God in our heart. Within this, the piston moves up and down. It is seen in us as in relation to the Father. It is in this relationship we gain strength and power. And we do not smell like gasoline as the engine runs. No, we have the scent of our Lord.

 

Our Lord has the scent of Lebanon. According to Hosea 14:4-7......4 "I will heal their backsliding,  I will love them freely, For My anger has turned away from him. 5 I will be like the dew to Israel;  He shall grow like the lily,  And lengthen his roots like Lebanon. 6 His branches shall spread;  His beauty shall be like an olive tree,  And his fragrance like Lebanon. 7 Those who dwell under his shadow shall return;  They shall be revived like grain,  And grow like a vine. Their scent shall be like the wine of Lebanon.   NKJV

Yes, we abide under the Shadow of the Almighty!

 

Song 4:9-12 9 You have ravished my heart,  My sister, my spouse;  You have ravished my heart  With one look of your eyes,  With one link of your necklace. 10 How fair is your love,  My sister, my spouse!  How much better than wine is your love,  And the scent of your perfumes Than all spices!

11 Your lips, O my spouse,  Drip as the honeycomb;  Honey and milk are under your tongue;  And the fragrance of your garments  Is like the fragrance of Lebanon.  NKJV

If the Lord really is our spouse, and we spend time with Him, then our scent should be what we just read. Our garments are the fragrance of Lebanon too! We would give a scent of beauty and nice to be around.

 Psalm 45:8-9 8 All Your garments are scented with myrrh and aloes and cassia, Out of the ivory palaces, by which they have made You glad. 9 Kings' daughters are among Your honorable women;  At Your right hand stands the queen in gold from Ophir.  NKJV  We stand in a good place. We stand in a place of honor among the honorable women and yes, men too!

 IN that place where a fragrance of praise is presented to the ONE who saves, it is a place of fragrance where the oil of the olive is crushed and the scent of life of Jesus is in it.  In that scent we release His scent to others. It is not the scent of gasoline, nor is it the shiny chrome on your truck or what is under that hood of it, but what is under our hood, that which resides in our heart! Where we abide will reveal either a scent of life or of death.

 2 Corinthians 2: 10-17 … 10 Now whom you forgive anything, I also forgive. For if indeed I have forgiven anything, I have forgiven that one for your sakes in the presence of Christ, 11 lest Satan should take advantage of us; for we are not ignorant of his devices. 12 Furthermore, when I came to Troas to preach Christ’s gospel, & a door was opened to me by the Lord, 13 I had no rest in my spirit, because I did not find Titus my brother; but taking my leave of them, I departed for Macedonia. 14 Now thanks be to God who always leads us in triumph in Christ, & through us diffuses the fragrance of His knowledge in every place. 15 For we to God the fragrance of Christ among those who are being saved & among those who are perishing. 16 To the one we are the aroma of death leading to death, & to the other the aroma of life leading to life.& who is sufficient for these things? 17 For we are not, as so many, peddling the word of God; but as of sincerity, but as from God, we speak in the sight of God in Christ.

 

We find this in 1 Thessalonians 1:8-10 Amplified Bible 8 For not only has the Word concerning and from the Lord resounded forth from you unmistakably in Macedonia and Achaia, but everywhere the report has gone forth of your faith in God [ of leaning of your whole personality on Him in complete trust and confidence in His power, wisdom and goodness]. So we [find that we] never need to tell people anything [further about it].

As a vessel charged up, our sound should be louder and clearer than  a 4-barrel carburetor or even in that new fuel injected system. Our sound is clear and strong in the words of truth and no lies!

Here in 1 Thessalonians 1: 9-10 Amplified Bible, it is Paul the Apostle who had a concern about the Thessalonians’ sexual practices. Within his proclamation of a gospel required people to turn from idols and to wait expectantly for God’s son from heaven. He ministered gently like a nurse but ministered by concern like a father for his children.  1 Thessalonians 9 For they themselves volunteer testimony concerning us, telling what an entrance we had among you, and how you turned to God from [your] idols] to serve a God Who is alive and true and genuine. 10 And [how you] look forward to and await the coming of His Son from heaven, Whom He raised from the dead----Jesus, Who personally rescues and delivers us out of and from the wrath [bringing punishment] which is coming [upon the impenitent] and draws us to Himself [investing us with all the privileges and rewards of the new life in Christ the Messiah].

To turn and be alive and genuine in God is to volunteer our testimony to others. It is to be a privilege to shine for Jesus, with a glow of our face and faith we speak. To sound like the Father is paramount and to give truth to the one in need. By the Holy Spirit, we have power. His willing and humble heart teaches us. And through that work and growth, we take a path, a road least traveled but much poop on it. Our sound should be heard that we would have the Gospel in our hearts and mouths, that sounds like a hum of an engine revved up in God and to move fast for His glory.

We ought to have a cherry exterior not of the world, but of love that spreads out like a river wherever we walk and live. And our scent will be that of the Lord where He leads us in triumph!

We are not the weary, but we check under the hood, to remind ourselves to check the thought processes of our heart, for God will certainly know our thoughts and see if there is any wicked way in us. Amen! What power is in you? And will we see you revealing what is in your heart for His glory and to His praise? The race is on, and we have a prepared vessel for honor to be with Him forever!

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Why Do You Call Me Lord?

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Iodine or Those $99 Antibiotics

Was reading this article sent to me by my family who lives back east. I got a great laugh about the antibiotics and their use today. A trip with a real need, can look like 99 dollars for antibiotic and more for the visit to the Emergency Room, and possibly hospital time, of course.
When we were children, a scrap to knee or elbow, iodine would stain the skin and clothes, but Mercurochrome worked better to me and the scent was nice. Who cared it turned the skin slightly reddish pink? Of course, there was possibly the need for a shot if a wound appeared really deep. Tetanus shot, anyone?
But I have now heard that Mercurochrome is no longer available. This highly used product was used for years was "deemed" not safe!

Today, I hear a lot on the cost of things. I take note of the going price to get a baby from conception to the arm holding stage. Yes with the ride outside of the womb and into the EXIT, a baby comes into the  waiting "family"is up to several thousand dollars in a lot of cases. And those with the "marked for a C-Section" the price can go even higher. YIKES!
Our visit with Dr. for pregnancy, the room, the Dr.' care + delivery was a total $400. Yeah, those were the days, and life seemed easier and not so pricey.
Yes, times have changed and it sure added a cost to a vast assortment of different categories that affect a young married couple. In looking at owning that home, and a car or two as well, the price shoots up drastically. When adding a baby to boot, then you are talking millions of dollars.

Going to the grocery store too, can take a bite out of the paycheck or savings account. In years past I heard of people getting into lots of trouble using their credit card to purchase groceries. That works when you pay the bill at the end of each month, but to keep stacking more charges against yourself is not wise at all!

Was really taken aback by the article I was sent and laughed at the things pertaining to swimming in the river or lakes with no regard to any kind of yuck getting on you. And I certainly do not remember any people getting sick from going into the cloudy river. I was more concerned for the water moccasin who lived there. (you know snakes)

 The going to the nurse in the school pharmacy was to us an actual nurse with a certain uniform on. Although it was not the typical white outfit, still you knew which one was "the nurse".  I am not sure what they would have today. But in those days, the only reason you went to see her, was to get out of class. (very seldom would one need an actual aspirin or wound tended too!)

I liked the part of the article which mentioned the cell phone. And it could have or would have been  true at that time and period, if one would have mentioned a cell phone, a person in jail would think a phone from within their cell was available for their use. And yes, what was mentioned also was the use of that cutting board. The care on that alone would cause some to tremble. But I think today of those germs they show on keyboards, light switches, elevator buttons, and those really out of the way water fountains! Have you seen those new scanning systems to check for those pesky germs just waiting to get on aboard your hands and go home with you?

Yes, prices have gone up, people's pay stayed the same, and in the mix, something will have to give. It will have to either stand together or fall together.

In counting the cost for anyone's future, we must figure that we are going to finish.
Luke 14:28-30 Message Bible...
"Is there anyone here who, planning to build a new house, doesn't first sit down and figure the cost so you'll know if you can complete it? If you only get the foundation laid and then run out of money, you're going to look pretty foolish. Everyone passing by will poke fun at you:'He started something he couldn't finish.'"
"Or could you imagine a king going into battle against another king without first deciding whether it is possible with his ten thousand troops to face the twenty thousand troops of the other? And if he decides he can't, won't he send an emissary and work out a truce?"
"Simply put, if you're not willing to take what is dearest to you whether plans or people, and kiss them good-bye, you can't be my disciple." "Salt is excellent. But if salt goes flat, it's useless, good for nothing. Are you Listening to this?Really listening?"

Jesus is the same yesterday, today and tomorrow.
Whether in life as an individual or as a couple, one must count the cost. Jesus was showing that which was to be considered when starting anything.
In being a disciple for the Lord, we learn to walk the way He did. He showed us how to consider things and bring them under the council of God.
Anyone viewing the evening news can see some horrific things due to weather related catastrophes. Some people are willing to start over. Many are people in their 60's and 70's who came out of the storm unscathed, their property destroyed, but they continue to live and look forward to another day.

 Things can come, and with them can come some major changes to our lives, but when keeping God first in our lives, we remain in His peace to walk through any trial at the time.
But that kissing some things good-bye could be a good thing. Like one should skip the casino with the boys to spend more time with the mother-to-be before the actual arrival date of the baby!  Kissing some of those old habits like the nightly workout might be scheduled for a more flexible time of the three times a week instead.
Changes have to be made when accommodating the new in our lives.
Ours did not seem to change a lot. We were accustomed to being home and doing things around the house and property. Our child slept through the night on her second night home. She would arise at 6 AM. and so did I. Although she liked her formula and those early foods for a tiny baby.........yet I held onto my bacon. That did not change then or now, but I still remember those days.


In the decision making, and that which comes after a major change, like storms, change in jobs or even the arrival of a baby to the family, one should their focus on God Who gave.

In that process, we can be salt to others. In choosing to continue and not quit, we look to God and that which He says we can have and do in His name. Yes, salt is good and is season to those around us.
We can continue to communicate Jesus Christ to the world when anything changes even to the degree of loss. It is in our walk through, we show others that we are not dominated by the world or things of the world. Our influence must be that which is in peace and that of the over-comer.
Whether in our walk with the community or with Christians alike, our savor must be that which brings life to others. He who has ears to hear, let him hear.

In attending to Christ and His Word, we are reminded that He, God, gave His best for us. In all that happened to the apostles in their ministry, should we not also remember that others paid the price for us to hear? Jesus gave His life for us. Through His obedience and sacrifice, we have full access to the Father.
 For the Gospel went out, and in that, the word came forth to today. It is knowing we have the choice to choose a good life. It is one marked by the Cross of Christ. It has it's hard places. It has it's ups and downs, but our focus whether by tragedy of death of a close family member, a loss of a home to tornado or even hurricane, God still rules from heaven. He sent His son for us. And in that we should be the consumed to mark out our paths with the way of truth that only comes from God.

People are watching us daily. They see how we react to even the most subtle of changes. How will they see us? Will we be salt and light? Even in the storms of life, can God count on us to direct others to Him and His love?

Psalm 62 Message Bible

God, the one and only--
I'll wait as long as he says,
Everything I hope for comes from Him, so why not?
He's solid rock under my feet, breathing room for my soul,
And impregnable castle; I'm set for life.
My help and glory are in God----granite strength and safe-harbor God--
So trust him absolutely, people;
lay your lives on the line for Him.
God is a safe place to be.

Man as such is smoke, woman as such, a mirage.
Put them together, they're nothing; two times nothing is nothing.
And windfall, if it comes---don't make too much of it.
God said this once and for all;
how many times have I heard it repeated?
"Strength comes Straight from God."
Love to you, Lord God!
You  pay a fair wage for a good day's work!

Man can only do in his own strength. And the woman, his helpmate, can assist him, but it is only in God and through Him that we move in His power, wisdom and peace.
God is for us. He desires us to proclaim His Name far and wide.
No smokin' mirrors with Him, you will always get the truth.
He is standing by and as we reflect on Him, and grateful in the reflection, we know our lives remain dear to Him. Oh God, to see You and to bless You daily. We commit to sing. As we communicate our love to YOU, may others hear and be glad.
You are more beautiful to us than all the jewelry in the world. YOU shine bright and show us where to walk safely. Your love never runs out on us. You set us free, and we are here to tell the world.
"Be still and know that he is God."
He is gracious, and has showered us with blessings. Our soul, yes, He rescued from death. We praise YOU our faithful God. Your love never quits! 

Remember:
He will never give up on you!
Keep prayer foremost for your decision making before starting anything, including marriage and the birth of a child. Count the cost! Make it plain.
From previous Blog: Paying it Forward (Wisdom) February 2.8.16
Forsake foolishness and live! Go in the way of Understanding............In respect to writing it down, I like the word prescribe, given as a meaning. We surely know what it is when some Doctor prescribes some medicine and the importance of taking it when you need it. I think that word fits so appropriately for taking this prescribed word of God and taking it like a pill every day will change things if we take it as directed. Right?
Make it plain so that others might know what you are believing. 

In writing it out for your future: seek the Lord's will and that it is a life pleasing to God that is with fruitfulness, endurance, patience and joy. (Colossians 1:9-12)
Thank You Lord for leading us into a cleared and level land.
The clouds may darken and fill the skies. And thunders may boom through the night, but we are not the fearful! We are the prepared to give others a "helping hand" if destruction strikes their land. We are excited to start this day with You. We take the first steps out with a song on our lips.

In closing:
Building your life as an individual, or as a couple will take a lot of time, a lot of prayer and many questions to God about tomorrow. Laboring for something good is seen in that which we choose God and His way and ultimately follow that plan of His. Anything worthwhile will take some time, money, sacrifice and being committed to what waits up ahead for us.

Father, may Your glory fill this place! In Jesus' name, we pray for the glory....Your beauty, Your holiness.......to be seen where we stand and trust in YOU. May others see and know that You are with us. It is to Your praise and to Your eternal honor, we truly lift Your name on high. Amen.

Notice:

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Faith Without Borders: The Experience of Our Faith

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