Setting Yourself Apart From The Crowd

Some Bible verses tell us how to set ourselves apart from the crowd. We all know that we’re alten required to do things differently to everyone else. If fact, we’re specifically instructed not to conform to the ways of the world (Romans 12:2) but the pull of the crowd can be hard to resist.

From what we wear and what we watch it where we hang out and who we hang out with, we’re under a lot of pressure to follow the crowd. A lot of the time, what was us closer to the crowd only places distance between us and God. That’s why we’re called to walk a different path. None of us want to feel as though we’re missing out, sitting on the sidelines while everyone else is having fun. But going Christ’s way instead of the crowds doesn’t mean that we lose out. What He offers us in infinity more than we could hope for by following anyone else. Living a life that doesn’t always adhere to the principles favored by the masses becomes a lot more manageable once we accept this.

If we need inspiration from those who’ve set themselves apart from the crowd to follow Jesus, we can always look to the disciples. The pressures they faced to conform we’re greater than those that many of us have confronted today. Because they wholly trusted in Jesus and understood why it was necessary to commit to loving Him more than the world, they were able to give up worldly gains in place of something much greater – salvation, a renewed relationship with God, eternal life.

I have friend’s everyday that tell me to come to do things that the Bible (God) wouldn’t approve of, like gambling, going for drinks at the local bar. When I sometimes want to accept these temptations, I know that’s not what I should do,

If you’re feeling tempted to confirm and pursue a path that isn’t compatible with the one that God wants you to take. Here are some Bible verses that can help bring you back on track.

Proverbs 14:12

There is a way that appears to be right, but in the end it leads to death.

2 John 1:9

Anyone who runs ahead and does not continue in the teaching of Christ does not have God; whoever continues in the teaching has both the Father and the Son.

Like 6:26

Woe to you when everyone speaks well of you, for that is how their ancestors treated the false prophets.

James 4 4

You adulterous people, don’t you know that friendship with the world means enmity against God? Therefore, anyone who chooses to be a friend of the world becomes an enemy of God.

John 15:18-19

If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first. If you belonged to the world, it would love you as it’s own. As it is, you do not be.ong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world. That is why the world hates you.

1 Corinthians 15:33

Do not be misled: “Bad company corrupt good character.”

Proverbs 5:20-21

Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm.

Psalm 118:8-9

It is better to take refuge in the Lord than to trust in humans. It is better to take refuge in the Lord than to trust in princes.

Matthew 7:13-14

Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many who enter through it. But small, is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it,

Matthew 4:19-20

Come, follow me. Jesus said, and I will send you out to fish for people. At once they left their nets and followed Him.

The Most Fought Over Land On Earth

On May 14, 1948, Israel was born from the dead as a nation. Israel as many of you know is the size of Bew Jersey. And yet, did you know that Israel is the most fought over land in history? Now you would think, with all this fighting Israel must be filled with natural resources. It’s not. It had almost nothing, but the one thing Israel has is God. Israel belongs to God. And so, if you’re saved, you’re of Israel and it’s the same for you. You might often feel like your in a fight, and every day’s a battle. There a reason for it. You’re Gods Israel. You belong to God. So your life is precious. There’s a calling on it, a high calling, and a good promise of great things to come. So it’s worth the fight. The enemy knows it. And His job is to discourage you from persevering and inheriting the blessing. You knew you had a fight. But now you know you’ve got something worth fighting for.

Think of all the conflicts, problems, attacks, obstacles, resistance and warfare in your life, but thank God that the enemy is against you. Stand even stronger. If the enemy is attacking you, You know your doing something right.

1 Timothy 6:12

What Can I Do To Stop Horrible Anxiety?

Many people are worried or unhappy about something. Whether we have a great family or everything is going great in our life. We have these worries that over come us. Praying about it constantly and following God’s word, but nothing seems to work. We always feel insecure. We feel that something will always go wrong.

There are a number of reasons we can be unhappy. Some are okay and understandable such as mourning over a death of a loved one. Remember even Jesus wept because Lazarus died (John 11:35). It is good to be unhappy because we sinned 2: Corinthians 7:9-11. It is acceptable to be unhappy because others are not Christians (Romans 9:1-4) and because of another’s sin (2 Corinthians 2:1-4), but these do not seem fit your situation, since we are constantly worried. Constantly worried and unhappy about something yet not knowing why. Are you worried about your partner is going to leave you, or fearing something will happen when there isn’t any proof causes you to have horrible anxiety.

Anxiety

Do not fear, for I an with you; Do not anxiously look about you, for I am with your God. I will strengthen you, surely I will help you. Surely I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.

Isaiah 41:10

And we can be anxious when we are not sure of what to do in a difficult situation (1 Samual 10:2; Matthew 10:19). Scripture says that anxiety is a form of fear and that it is the opposite of courage.

Say to those with anxious heart, “Take courage, fear not. Behold, your God will come… He will save you.

Isaiah 35:4

Anxiety is a common problem because we are not in control of our life. Then when we add fear that it will not turn out like we want, we will become anxious.

I Effect of Anxiety

Anxiety is like a tree. It’s roots are buried in our desire to control and our fear that we cannot control that situation. Without being able to talk with you. We are left with the impression this is your situation – an anxiety that is rooted in fear. This is sin,

I am full of anxiety because of my sin.

Psalm 38:18

And that tree of anxiety has grown into something horrible.

Anxiety in the heart of man weighs it down…

Proverbs 12:25

Sad Heart

God tells us that a broken spirit is the result of a sad heart in Proverbs.

A joyful heart make a cheerful face, But when the heart is sad, the spirit it broken.

Proverbs 15:13

Crushed Spit it

The Hebrew word for “sad” has a sense of “hurt, grief, offended, outraged and distressed. The Holy Spirit describes a hurt heart. This is a heart that is in pain and grieving over something. The Hebrew word for “broken” has the idea of “whipped out,” “flogged,” and beaten.” What does a,k of this mean? God is saying that a heart that is continuing to be burdened with something like grief or anxiety results in a spirit that feels crushed or flogged.

A joyful heart is good medicine, But a broken spirit dries up the bones.

Proverbs 17:22

In Proverbs 17:33 we discover that a crushed or flogged spirit “dries up the bones.’ This Hebrew expression implies “crushed and flogged” spirit eventually starts destroying the body, “ Dry bones” a picture of death (Ezekiel 37:1-10). The process is easy to understand. Ahead that is continuing to be hurt and continues to grieve results in a crushed and flogged spirit with eventually leads to sickness.

God’s Solution

Since I am not sure exactly what sin is at the root of your anxiety. I will tell of some areas to explore.

The first question to ask is “Am I willing to allow God to control my life?” Key me illustrated with your partner. Are you willing to allow God to away your partner? He knows what’s best for you (Romans 8:28). If this is a area of struggle. There are times in my life when I desperately want a situation to occur in a particular way – my way! I find that I pray and pray and I’m still filled with anxiety, fear and unhappiness, I have found that I have never found peace in my heart until I was really willing to submit to whatever God would give me.

You need to ask yourself some serious questions, like are your partner living together, if so according to God it is a sin. God will never give you peace if your living in sin. Maybe this will help:

For my iniquities are gone over my head; As a heavy burden they weigh too much for me. My wounds grow foul and fester… I go mourning all day long. For my loins are filled with burning… I am benumbed and badly crushed; I groan beiof the agitation of my heart. Lord all my desire is before you; and my sighing is not hidden from you.

Psalm 38;4-10

Does this sound like your situation? Don’t live together until marriage. Ask God for a Bible-believing partner.

What ever you worry or have anxiety about there is a reason, whether you need to change your situation or change the way your living.

Whatever happens you have three choices. You can either let it define you. let it destroy you, or let it strengthen you. If you can’t do anything thing about it, let it go. Don’t be a prisoner to the things you can’t change.

God has a solution to your situation

Cast all your anxiety upon Him, because He cares for you.

1 Peter 5:7

Yield to Him! He knows what is best for you. If necessary, let Him take your worry and anxiety away. Let God heal you.

Comfort During Physical Pain

During physical struggles, we should know that God’s abiding presence is always with us. Whether it’s a flare up of a chronic condition or a common cold, caring support makes a world of difference. We are never alone, He is always there. Even when we think no one in the natural care. Have peace that He’s always there.

His words contain many reminders of His love for us. Take a moment to write down these Scriptures for easy access to read and reread God’s Scriptures on Comfort.

Isaiah 41:10 – God strengthens you

So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.

God has promised is His strength. He will never give you a trail He is not willing to help you through. As children of God, we can call upon His power at anytime.

At times this Scripture can be hard to grasp. I know for me I struggle through severe migraines, some lasting more than seven days. While the Doctors do not know what the cause of them are. I need to remember that God is always with me through it all, my crying, my frustration, And becoming angry when I don’t understand why it’s happening to me. “Why God Why” what is the purpose of all this pain?

Jeremiah 33:6 – God brings healing

Nevertheless, I will bring health and healing to it; I will heal my people and will let them enjoy abundant peace and security.

Although we are aware that complete physical healing may occur in this lifetime, we also know that God has a plan and a purpose for our lives,

We need spiritual care such a prayer and devotions, whether it’s a few friends to pray over you, or even your pastor.

John 14:27 – God provides peace

Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you, I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.

A few weeks ago I was taking an older man gifts and food for the Christmas season. I was met by his pitbull before I entered his yard. He attacked me, at first I was sure I’d lose my hand. I pulled with such force to get my hand out of this dogs mouth I strained by wrist, that when my hand was freed. I had four puncher wounds and drag marks across my hand. But the thing is, I was perfectly calm. I had a peace that I had nothing to fear. I seemed out medical care, and filed a police report.

Sometimes an unexpected pain or illness may frighten you. Accept God’s gift of peace, and let it create a calm spirit amen within you.

I was fortunate to have another person with me when I delivering that day. The knowledge that someone is near reduces worries and improves your peace of mind.

Matthew 11:28-30 – God lightens your burdens

Come to me, all who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my home upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.

Many times we feel overwhelmed in our lives. God has promised us that we can find strength in Him, and He will provide rest for us.

After Death, Will Christians See Those Who Are Not Saved?

Will those who are saved ever see those who are not saved after we die?

I think about this every Christmas, my Father was my only true support in my life. I have wondered if I’ve ever see him in heaven. So I did a little research in the Bible this is what I found out. Before my father got sick. He would tell me “I know I’m not going hell, but maybe I’ll make it to purgatory.” In Catholic religion means the process, or temporary punishment in which, according to Catholic belief, the souls of those who die in a state of grace are made ready for heaven.

I think we need to understand what hell is. Some people do not understand heck. It’s common to hear some people say they are not going to heaven, but they are looking forward to seeing all their friends in hell.

Judgement In The After Life

Jesus and the apostles paint hell as a place of misery and darkness. It will not be a social time. It is not a place to play, party, and watch movies with your friends. Here is the Bible’s picture of hell.

Picture of Hell – Eternal suffering with fire

Eternal Suffering with Fire

Verses:

  • Matthew 5:22; 13;42
  • Mark 9:43;
  • James 3:6;
  • Revelation 20:15

Picture of Hell

Crying or weeping

Verses:

  • Matthew 8:12; 13:42; 22:13
  • Luke 13; 28

Picture of Hell

Misery to the point of grinding one’s teeth

Verses:

  • Matthew 8:12: 13:43; 22:13
  • Luke 13:28

Picture of Hell

Darkness

Verses:

  • Matthew 8:23; 13:43; 22:13
  • Luke: 13:28

Hell will not be a place where it’s residents will know each other and visit one another. It will be a dark place burning with the heat of fire. So it’s not surprising there will be pain.

See Our Friends?

Scripture teaches that not only will Christians see others in heaven but others will know who they are. Scripture seems to imply that we will not know those who are in hell or in the lake of fire, because there will be no suffering in heaven, Heaven will be a wonderful place.

He shall wipe away every tear from our eyes; and there shall no longer be any mourning, or crying, or pain; the first things have passed away. And He who sits on the throne said, “Behold, I am making all things new.’ And He said; “ write, for these words are faithful and true,” And He said to me, “It is done, I am the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end. I will give to the one who thirsts from the spring of the water of life without cost.

Revelation 21:4-6

Since there is no suffering in heaven, Christians will not see non- Christians who are suffering in the eternal Lake of Fire. Christians will see other Christians. It will be wonderful. But the best part will be to spend eternity with God. Christians are going to have a party with God.

How Is Jesus The ‘Lamb of God’ and the ‘Lion of Judah’?

The Lion and the Lamb are two images and names of God used in Scripture that describe aspects of Jesus. The attributes of Jesus are as powerful and majestic as a Lion and innocent as a sacrificial lamb.

Joel Ryan

When we study the biblical narrative in its entirety, we discover just how complimentary both of these images are to the power of Jesus Christ, whose purpose is prophesied in the Old Testament and fulfilled in the New Testament.

Many may look to Isaiah 11:6 as a passage that points to Jesus as the Lion and the Lamb, however, this is a common misconception. The author writes, “ and the wolf will dwell with the lamb, and the leopard will lie down with the young goat, and the calf and the young Lion and the falling together; and a little boy will lead them.” Here Isaiah was prophesying that the coming Messiah and the messages His angel would temper even the wildest hearts and bring people to those who were formally enemies, wolfs and lambs, calves and young lions.

Christ’s connection to the Lion and the Lamb actually goes back much further and is revealed much more thoroughly in Revelation 5.

Jesus Is The Lion Of Judah

The earliest reference to Jesus as a Lion, however, can be found in. Genesis, where Jacob (Israel) delivers parting words to each of his sons. When he arrives at Judah, his fourth born, Jacob says:

“Judah, your brothers shall praise you; your hand shall be on the neck of your enemies; your Father’s son shall bow down to you. ‘Judah is a lions whelp; from the prey, my son, you have gone up. He couches, he lies down as a Lion, and as a Lion, who dares rouse him up, who dares rouse him up? ‘The scepter shall not depart from Judah, nor the ruler’s staff from between his feet, until Shiloh comes.” – Genesis 49:8-10.

Significance Of The Lion And Judah

Here the imagery of the lion reflects the powerful, majestic, and kingly nature of the lion, often regarded as king of beasts. Applied to Judah, this is significant because it heralds the lineage of Judah as that of kings. For out of Judah’s line, King David and his descendants would rule over Israel until the time of the Babylonian captivity (1 Chronicles 2; 2 Kings 24); and generation’s later, Jesus Christ would come as a descendant of David and Judah to forge a new covenant and usher in a new kingdom of heavenly glory ( Matthew 1:1-17).

When Jacob says that “the scepter shall not depart from Judah, not the ruler’s staff from between his feet,” he was also proclaiming the eventual Kingdom of Jesus Christ, who will be forever as king, the scepter being a symbol of his kingly authority and lordship.

This is the main reason why Jesus is often referred to as the Lion of the Trimble of Judah.

Jesus Is The King Of Kings

In the New Testament. The imagery of the lion is further fulfilled in Jesus Christ, who was prophesied to be the “root of David’ (Isaiah 11:1-2 and his “branch” (Zechariah 3:8).

In the book of Revelation, the apostle John is also given a vision of the heavenly throne room in which the one seated on the throne is handed a scroll sealing with seven seals (Revelation 5:2-3). When no one is found worthy to open the scroll, John begins to weep (Revelation 5:4). This is when one of the elders says to him, ‘stop weeping; behold, the lion that is from the Trimble of Judah, the Root of David, has overcome so as to open the book and its seven seals.” (Revelation 5:5)

This is clearly referring to Jesus Christ, the Root of David and the Lion of the tribe of Judah, who is worthy to open the scroll for being the one to conquer sin and death through His work on the cross. (2 Timothy 1:10, Isaiah 25:8, 1 Corinthians 15:25-26, Hosea 13:24).

Here the true power of the King of kings (Revelation 19:16) and Lord of lords (Revelation 17:14) is revealed as a lion who is majestic, fierce in love, and worthy to be called king.

Jesus Is The Lamb Of God

In the later verses of Revelation 5, John then writes, “and I saw between the throne (with the four living creatures) and the elders a Lamb standing, as if slain….And He came and took the book out of the right hand of Him who sat on the throne” Revelation 5:6-7).

With this revelation. John confirmed Jesus Christ as the Lamb of God, for as the Lamb took the book, those witnessing sang, “worthy are You to take the book and to break its seals; for You were slain, and purchased for God with Your blood men from every tribe and tongue and people and nation” (Revelation 5:9).

Significance Of The Lamb:

The lamb has enormous significance going back to the days of Abraham and. Odes. In the Old Testament, prior to the exodus from Egypt, the children of Israel were instructed to take the blood of an unblemished lamb and smear it in the doorposts and lintel of their houses ( Exodus 12:1-13). That night, as the angel of the Lord passed through Egypt to strike down the firstborn of each household, those with the blood of the lamb on their doorposts would be passed over and sparred. From that days on, the Lord commanded the Israelites to celebrate and remember their deliverance for Egypt and commemorate God’s provision in their lives. Such called Passover. (Exodus 12:14).