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How Well Do You Know Your Bible? Take the Quiz and see.

November 17, 2015 by memullin

The answers to the Quiz will be posted in tomorrow’s blog post. Try to answer without using any references including the internet or your Bible.

  1. Who is the man who built the ark?
  2. Who is the female judge mentioned in the book of Judges?
  3. Who was Elijah’s successor?
  4. Who parted the Jordan River so the children of Israel could walk through?
  5. Which of the following is not one of the 12 original disciples of Jesus? (John, Peter, Matthew, Luke)
  6. Where was the place of worship when the Israelites were in the wilderness?
  7. What was Paul the Apostle’s name before he converted?
  8. Who wrote the book of Revelation?
  9. How many books are there in the Bible?
  10. Who which of the following is a Major prophet? (Micah, Daniel, Amos, Jonah)9cRgxypKi

Posted in Bible Quiz, Biblical Literacy, Uncategorized |

Speak Evil of No Man (Part 2)

January 27, 2014 by memullin

gossip

What’s the problem for you? Is it gossip?  You just can’t resist passing on a juicy story?  The fact that it is true doesn’t stop it from being gossip.

Or maybe your problem is anger.  Do you pop off at people who make you angry, letting harsh and hurtful words fly like weapons? Are they directed at your children?  Your spouse?  Your employees?

Or are you a liar? Is it hard for you to resist making yourself look better, embellishing you to make you seem smarter, richer, better, more spiritual? Words are powerful.

Proverbs 10:19 warns us, In the multitude of words sin is not lacking, But he who restrains his lips is wise.

The following are some of the ways the Bible addresses speaking evil:

  • Psalm 34:13 Keep your tongue from evil, And your lips from speaking deceit.
  • Psalm 15:1-3 LORD, who may abide in Your tabernacle? Who may dwell in Your holy hill?He who walks uprightly, And works righteousness, And speaks the truth in his heart; He who does not backbite with his tongue, Nor does evil to his neighbor, Nor does he take up a reproach against his friend.
  • Psalm 50:20 You sit and speak against your brother; You slander your own mother’s son.
  • Proverbs 11:13 A talebearer reveals secrets, But he who is of a faithful spirit conceals a matter.
  • Proverbs 20:19 He who goes about as a talebearer reveals secrets; Therefore do not associate with one who flatters with his lips.

This week consider your words. Where is your sin? Of what man or woman are you speaking evil? Identification is the key to changing the behavior. Remember, you have the ability.  With Christ, all things are possible.

Posted in Tongue | Tagged , , |

Speak Evil of No Man (Part 1)

January 23, 2014 by memullin

speak evil of no manSheeesh.  Sometimes the Bible can be so . . . comprehensive.  No man? Really? How am I supposed to do that?

When the Bible gives a command, we can immediately know 2 things:

  • It is possible for us to obey
  • It is important for us to obey

It is possible for us to obey because of other promises that God has made in His Word to us.

  •   I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. Philippians 4:13.
  •  No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it. 1 Corinthians 10:13

It is important for us to obey because of what obedience means in God’s economy.

  •  Then Samuel said: “Has the LORD as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, As in obeying the voice of the LORD? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, And to heed than the fat of rams.  1 Samuel 15:22
  • If you love Me, keep My commandments.  John 14:15 (Jesus speaking)
  • He who has My commandments and keeps them, it is he who loves Me. And he who loves Me will be loved by My Father, and I will love him and manifest Myself to him.  John 14:21 (Jesus speaking)

Therefore, this command to speak evil of no man (or woman) is possible to obey and important for me to obey. Our next post will explore what it means to speak evil of someone and why it is banned among God’s people.

Set a guard, O LORD, over my mouth; Keep watch over the door of my lips.  Psalm 141:13

Posted in Tongue | Tagged , , |

Living Deliberately

January 20, 2014 by memullin

RomansRoad132x200I rarely have opportunity to quote a Diana Ross song for spiritual insight or inspiration, but I hear God’s voice in these lyrics from the song made famous by Diana Ross and written by Gerry Goffin and Michael Masser:

Do you know where you’re goin’ to?
Do you like the things that life is showin’ you
Where are you goin’ to? Do you know?

As I begin 2014, I ask myself, “Do I have a direction in which I am headed?”  “Am I headed in the same direction as God?” I see the new year as an opportunity, a time to adjust the headings and evaluate what was accomplished last year, and what the goals should be for the coming year, spiritually speaking.

If you are having trouble focusing or setting goals, here are some questions to help you:

  • What have you learned about God this year?
  • What have you learned about yourself from God this year?
  • What things do you continue to struggle with and need God’s assistance or deliverance this year?

May God bless you and give you grace to walk humbly with Him.

Through the LORD’S mercies we are not consumed, Because His compassions fail not. They are new every morning; Great is Your faithfulness. “The LORD is my portion,” says my soul, “Therefore I hope in Him!” Lamentations 3:22-24

Posted in Relationship with God, Walking with God | Tagged , , | 2 Comments »

I am not ashamed . . .

July 6, 2013 by memullin

I am not ashamed of the gospel of Jesus Christ for it is the power of God unto salvation for all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God. There is none righteous; no not one. The wages or just payment for sin is death. It is appointed that each man and woman shall die once and face the judgment of God.

But God, while we were yet sinners and enemies of God, sent His only begotten Son to die a substitutionary death that our fellowship with God might be restored. That the hand of judgment might pass over those who accept the sacrifice of Jesus on their behalf.

Jesus rose on the 3rd day proving His sovereignty over all things including death. Look for His grave, and find it is empty. He is risen, and He alone has the words of eternal life.

There is one way, one truth, one God. No one comes to the Father except through the Son, Jesus.

Lie to yourself if you must to continue in your rebellion, but absolute truth will stand.

Consider Romans 1:18-32. Is that the end you seek?

Posted in Exhortation | Tagged , , |

Even in the Valley, God is Good!

April 8, 2013 by memullin

330px-Glacial_Valley_MtHoodWildernessEven in the Valley (Whisnants)

High upon the mountain the sun is shining bright
My heart is filled with gladness
here above the cares of life
but ive just come through the valley of trouble fear and pain
it was there I came to know my God
enough to stand and say…

Even in the valley God is good
even in the valley he is faithful and true
he carries his children through
like he said he would
even in the valley God is good

This road of life has led you
to a valley of defeat
you wonder if the father
has heard your desperate plea
there is hope in that rugged place
where tears of sorrow dwell
can’t you hear him gently whispering
im here and all is well

even in the valley God is good
even in the valley he is faithful and true
he carries his children through
like he said he would
even in the valley God is good

Even in the valley God is good
even in the valley he is faithful and true
he carries his children through
like he said he would
even in the valley God is so good
God is so good
he carries his children through like he said he would even in the valley God is good

Posted in hymns, In times of difficulty | Tagged , , |

He’s Alive

March 30, 2013 by memullin

KONICA MINOLTA DIGITAL CAMERADolly Parton singing He’s Alive

“He’s Alive”

The gates and doors were barred
And all the windows fastened down
I spent the night in sleeplessness
And rose at every sound
Half in hope of sorrow
And half in fear the day
Would find the soldiers breakin’ through
To drag us all away
 
And just before the sunrise
I heard something at the wall
The gate began to rattle
And a voice began to call
I hurried to the window
Looked down into the street
Expecting swords and torches
And the sound of soldiers’ feet
 
But there was no one there but Mary So I went down to let her in
John stood there beside me
As she told me where she’d been
She said they’ve moved Him in the night
And none of us know where
The stone’s been rolled away
And now His body isn’t there
We both ran towards the garden
Then John ran on ahead
We found the stone and empty tomb
Just the way that Mary said
But the winding sheet they wrapped Him in
Was just an empty shell
And how or where they’d taken Him
Was more than I could tell
Oh something strange had happened there
Just what I did not know
John believed a miracle
But I just turned to go
Circumstance and speculation
Couldn’t lift me very high
‘Cause I’d seen them crucify Him
Then I saw Him die
Back inside the house again
The guilt and anguish came
Everything I’d promised Him
Just added to my shame
When at last it came to choices
I denied I knew His name
And even if He was alive
It wouldn’t be the same
 
But suddenly the air was filled
With a strange and sweet perfume
Light that came from everywhere
Drove shadows from the room
And Jesus stood before me
With His arms held open wide
And I fell down on my knees
And I just clung to Him and cried
 
Then He raised me to my feet
And as I looked into His eyes
The love was shining out from Him
Like sunlight from the skies
Guilt in my confusion
Disappeared in sweet release
And every fear I ever had
Just melted into peace
 
He’s alive yes He’s alive
Yes He’s alive and I’m forgiven
Heaven’s gates are open wide
He’s alive yes He’s alive
Oh He’s alive and I’m forgiven
Heaven’s gates are open wide
He’s alive He’s alive
Hallelujah He’s alive
He’s alive and I’m forgiven
Heaven’s gates are open wide
He’s alive He’s alive He’s alive
I believe it He’s alive
Sweet Jesus

Posted in Easter | Tagged , |

Poem for For Lent

March 27, 2013 by memullin

LEngleMadeleine“For Lent, 1966”           By Madeleine L’Engle

It is my Lent to break my Lent

To eat when I would fast

To know when slender strength is spent

Take shelter from the blast

When I would run with wind and rain

To sleep when I would watch.

It is my Lent to smile at pain

But not ignore its touch.

It is my Lent to listen well

When I would be alone,

To talk when I would rather dwell

In silence turn from none

Who call on me to try to see

That what is truly meant

Is not my choice.

If Christ’s I’d be

It’s thus I’ll keep my Lent.

Posted in Easter, God | Tagged , , , |

Easter – Part 3 (Prophecies of Messiah)

March 25, 2013 by memullin

Throughout the history of the Jews, many told of the coming Messiah, Promised One.  The following is not intended to be an exhaustive list but rather a representation of some of the Old Testament Prophecies that were fulfilled in the life and suffering of Jesus Christ:

Psalm 2:7-9

“I will declare the decree: The LORD has said to Me, ‘You are My Son, Today I have begotten You.  Ask of Me, and I will give You The nations for Your inheritance, And the ends of the earth for Your possession. You shall break them with a rod of iron; You shall dash them to pieces like a potter’s vessel.”

Psalm 110:1-2, 4

The LORD said to my Lord, “Sit at My right hand, Till I make Your enemies Your footstool.”  The LORD shall send the rod of Your strength out of Zion. Rule in the midst of Your enemies! . . . The LORD has sworn And will not relent, “You are a priest forever According to the order of Melchizedek.”
Psalm 22:1; 6-8

My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me? Why are You so far from helping Me, And from the words of My groaning? . . . But I am a worm, and no man; A reproach of men, and despised by the people.  All those who see Me ridicule Me; They shoot out the lip, they shake the head, saying, “He trusted in the LORD, let Him rescue Him; Let Him deliver Him, since He delights in Him!”

Psalm 69:20-21

Reproach has broken my heart, And I am full of heaviness; I looked for someone to take pity, but there was none; And for comforters, but I found none. They also gave me gall for my food, And for my thirst they gave me vinegar to drink.

Isaiah 50:5-7

The Lord GOD has opened My ear; And I was not rebellious, Nor did I turn away. I gave My back to those who struck Me, And My cheeks to those who plucked out the beard; I did not hide My face from shame and spitting. For the Lord GOD will help Me; Therefore I will not be disgraced; Therefore I have set My face like a flint, And I know that I will not be ashamed.

Isaiah 53:1-10

Who has believed our report? And to whom has the arm of the LORD been revealed? For He shall grow up before Him as a tender plant, And as a root out of dry ground. He has no form or comeliness; And when we see Him, There is no beauty that we should desire Him. He is despised and rejected by men, A Man of sorrows and acquainted with grief. And we hid, as it were, our faces from Him; He was despised, and we did not esteem Him. 

 Surely He has borne our griefs And carried our sorrows; Yet we esteemed Him stricken, Smitten by God, and afflicted. But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities; The chastisement for our peace was upon Him, And by His stripes we are healed. All we like sheep have gone astray; We have turned, every one, to his own way; And the LORD has laid on Him the iniquity of us all.  He was oppressed and He was afflicted, Yet He opened not His mouth; He was led as a lamb to the slaughter, And as a sheep before its shearers is silent, So He opened not His mouth. He was taken from prison and from judgment, And who will declare His generation? For He was cut off from the land of the living; For the transgressions of My people He was stricken. And they made His grave with the wicked-But with the rich at His death, Because He had done no violence, Nor was any deceit in His mouth.

Yet it pleased the LORD to bruise Him; He has put Him to grief. When You make His soul an offering for sin, He shall see His seed, He shall prolong His days, And the pleasure of the LORD shall prosper in His hand.

In the next post, we will consider the prophecies that Jesus made Himself about his betrayal, prophetdeath and resurrection.

Posted in Easter, Prophecy | Tagged , , , |

Easter – Part 2 (Exodus and Leviticus)

March 24, 2013 by memullin

Temple slaughter_area_2In Exodus, God gives Israel the law.  The law was a gift to man, to help him to realize his total inability to meet God’s standard and his obvious and ongoing need for a Savior  . . . who bleeds.  According to Paul, the “law was our tutor to bring us to Christ, that we might be justified by faith.”  Galatians 3:24

The atonement provided for under the law was only intended as a temporary fix, to cover the sin. It doesn’t take sin away.  The sacrificial system sets up the foreshadowing of the lamb slain to cover the sins of men. In Leviticus, an often overlooked book of the Bible, God lays out a means by which man may atone for sin in order to be able to have restored relationship with God.  He sets up the place for fellowship (Mercy Seat) – where He will meet with man – through His representative (the High Priest).  He carefully details every piece of wood, precious stone, curtain, garment, utensil of the worship.

The starting point of the worship of God was the bronze altar where the sacrifices were made.  It was a bloody place.  At the time of the feasts, the valley behind the temple would have been flowing with blood from the many sacrifices being offered.  Shed blood was a central part of the worship and approach to God.  No one entered the presence of God without a blood covering, a sacrifice to atone for sin.

God told His people in Leviticus 17:11, “For the life of the flesh is in the blood, and I have given it to you upon the altar to make atonement for your souls, for it is the blood that makes atonement for the soul.”

All this was looking forward to the cross, the shed blood of the Lamb of God, the blood that would atone for the sin of the whole world.

We’re out of space for today.  Check out our next blog for more about Easter.

Posted in Blood, Easter | Tagged , , , , |

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