I come to You with honesty, because You already see my heart.
You know this season of the year is scary for me, a time when memories of my husband's past health issues stir up fear, worry, and old emotions.
But today I choose to bring all of this to You.
I lay it at the Cross. Your Word says in 2 Timothy 1:7 that You have not given me a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind.
So right now, I reject fear, and I receive the power, love, and sound mind You freely offer me.
Let Your peace settle deeper in me than any anxious thought.
Your Word also says in 1 Peter 5:7 to cast all my anxiety on You because You care for me.
So Lord, I cast it: every fear, every old memory, every "what if," every tightness in my chest, every intrusive thought.
I place them in Your hands, not mine.
You care for me more than I can understand, and I release the weight of worry to You. I lift up the "fiery darts" that come : the sudden fears, the feelings, the emotional pulls, and instead I take up the shield of faith, just as You command in Ephesians 6:16.
Extinguish every dart of fear, every whisper of danger that is not from You, Lord, off of me and my entire family and our loved ones.
Fill me and my family with Your truth so fully, that fear has nowhere to land.
Lord, Your Word says in James 1:19 to be quick to listen, slow to speak, slow to become angry,
so help me in my relationships, especially with my husband, to walk with grace, patience, and peace.
Teach my heart to communicate with love, and soften any place in me that feels overly burdened, overwhelmed, or unheard.
And Father, You tell me in 1 Peter 3:7 and Ephesians 4:15 to walk in understanding and speak the truth in love.
So I ask You to strengthen our unity: spiritually, emotionally, and in communication.
Let my words be filled with gentleness, and let my heart feel safe,held, and understood.
Like Hannah in 1 Samuel 1, who poured out her soul before You, I pour out my emotions to You w/out shame
3. The Voice of the Enemy (Satan, Demons, The World)
The Bible clearly identifies a voice of temptation, accusation, and deceit that opposes God.
Genesis 3:1-5: The serpent (Satan) is the first voice of temptation and deceit, questioning God's word: "Did God really say?... You will not certainly die."
John 8:44: Jesus said about the Devil: "He was a murderer from the beginning, not holding to the truth, for there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks his native language, for he is a liar and the father of lies."
1 Peter 5:8: "Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour." The "roaring" represents the voice of intimidation, fear, and accusation.
1 John 2:15-16: The voice of the "world" (value systems contrary to God) is also an influence: "Do not love the world or anything in the world... For everything in the world-the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life-comes not from the Father but from the world."
Brother Carleton. Just a little background to help you in your consideration & meditations on this Church at Babylon. Maybe your understanding is that the Apostle Peter was referring to "this little Church" as being in the city of Babylon.
As you would remember that Babylon was destroyed by Cyrus (of Persia) in 539 BC, with only a few folk and structures existing in that region till the 7th Century AD. Peter's reference to it in 1 Peter 5:13 was not about a Church functioning in that city that was sending greetings to the scattered believers in Asia Minor ( 1 Peter 1:1), but he was referring to the city of Rome. His letter was being sent, distributed and read by many of these scattered believers and could quite easily fall into the wrong hands, i.e. the Roman authorities. So, Peter uses this word, Babylon, as a cover for the city of Rome, so as to avoid trouble & persecution from the authorities (at least for the short term; persecution would come later). Peter was living in Rome and very likely connected to this "church at Babylon" during the last decade of his life, and wrote his epistle in 63 AD just before the outbreak of Nero's persecution in 64 AD. It is believed that Peter died three years later.
Hope this snippet of background info will help you picture the situation in Rome at that time, with Peter effectively ministering to the believers gathered there and his tender heart of concern and ministry to other believers scattered elsewhere. Every blessing brother.
When it comes to stupidity; man seemingly has enough to go around to destroy himself without the Devil getting involved. 1 Peter 5:8 states: Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: and Job 1:7 And the LORD said unto Satan, Whence comest thou? Then Satan answered the LORD, and said, From going to and fro in the earth, and from walking up and down in it.
When we consider these things; Isaiah 24 helps to clarify events: And it shall come to pass in that day, that the LORD shall punish the host of the high ones that are on high, and the kings of the earth upon the earth. (v. 21 I believe). This chapter is so relevant for today I think I will focus my next study on it.
Now some today still hold to correct theology regarding man's ultimate helplessness in sin and inability to do any good; and the need to repent (actually given as a gift by God) and turn from his wicked ways through the help of the Holy Spirit. What many if not almost all fail to communicate effectively is that we change MASTERS in that change of heart from Satan to the Lord Jesus Christ. When we realize that being in league with spiritual darkness also adds to our judgment we understand better what Jesus means by hell was meant for the Devil and his angels ( Matt. 25:41). The world as it were is the conduit through Satan's organization of rulership over governments and regions of the earth to align with his campaign. He uses the flesh to physically act out that which is impressed on the souls of unregenerate man; that is rebellion to seek selfishly those earthly pleasures which soon shall pass.
This concept makes us comprehend how we are slaves of righteousness ( Romans 6:18 in NKJV which artificial intelligence lead me to; which is stronger than just servants in regular KJV.) Yes we are also His friends ( John 15:15) as the enmity was ended ( Eph. 2:16) because of Calvary.
8 Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:
9 Whom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world.
10 But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you.
I have touched on verse 8; but often verse 9 isn't considered. How often do we pray for others so that they will not fall for temptation? Most often I would guess that would be a mother praying for their children; but all of us should pray for our fellowservants in Christ in that regard. It is easy (at least for me) to assume I am the only one going through stuff and isolation is a tool of the enemy. We need a healthy balance of "alone time" as well as healthy fellowship. It is too often I fear that people are either stuck in one mode or another.
Prayer is an action which we make a conscious choice to routinely practice. It also should involve an openness to the Spirit for spontaneous prayer. Again there should be both or a person either tends to be restricted to the people and place he or she is gathered and a particular agenda. Answered prayers need to be remembered even if they are months or years later.
Today more than ever proper praise of the Lord is imperative if we are to have close fellowship with Him and with His church.
I am not even sure if many who call themselves non cessationists shall I say open to the Spirit's giftings are still this way today that much but instead are drawn to emotions instead. A proper frame of mind will indeed cause our emotions to properly express the Spirit's work. Hard prayers such as I brought up in my first post to convict hearts for many will never be approached because our human compassion overrides God's plans and purposes.
I have also commented in fairly recent posts on the fact that demons of a particular vice don't take a solo act (such as a demon of "lust"). Any sin which is available gives the "legal access" as it were; and when there is a vice displayed in our outer actions; no doubt there are other things where God's law is broken that are also areas of strongholds where demons can attack us. No doubt they work together in their own heirarchy with different actions but a demon for instance that lingers with a family line certainly has several tricks up its sleeve.
A very serious and significant area of attack is MUSIC. I have brought this up before but the concept of only hard rock or repetitive drumbeats as being evil is not true; the subtle hypnotic effect of certain harmonies is another major element; along with the spells and trances that artists often follow themselves or are conditioned by the industry to involve themselves in is a factor as well. This was what caused an attack in my mind at night many years ago with some folk music from the 60's a spirit of humanism is how I would describe it. For women emotional responses often are deep in the soul from outwardly pleasant songs. Men of course respond with fleshly and carnal thoughts in a similiar way as the spirit of the age with much country music especially dominates (sleeping around as a major theme along with drinking; two basic themes in that style of music).
The breakup of the family with Divorce of almost 50 percent and sadly with Protestants higher than the overall statistics for the population as a whole is appalling. No doubt a "religious" spirit is involved here and pride where subtle suggestions bolstered by the church accepting these things as collateral damage rather than helping to FIGHT so save a marriage is a glaring issue; and from my experiences no DOUBT is demonically inspired to seek the greener pastures or as an old song says "fruit from another". ( 1 Peter 5:8
Another benefit of the "house church" community that I attended a few years back was the lengthy prayers. There was a minimum of a two hour prayer session for ourselves (as everyone involved did at least a few days a week of street and nursing home ministry) on Fridays for one example. These days in church it is hard to find anything near that length; for those who do attend. Sundays usually involve only a few minutes and usually given by the Pastor after requests are taken at Sunday school along with a brief prayer before and after the service. Thankfully there is now a Sunday evening service for an hour which allows for some more prayer at my local congregation.
Some of us at least have probably heard second hand stories at least of those who have prayed decades for their children who finally saw the fruit of their efforts with repentance. I don't believe that is an iron clad guarantee either but that it is the means and method to effectively reach the elect that God chooses to utilize for such purposes. Jesus acts as high Priest to us.
26 Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered.
27 And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God. ( Romans 8:26-27)
Jesus according to Hebrews acts as the "High Priest" ( Heb. 4:14-16). Thus He would fulfill the role of being in the inner sanctuary that the O.T. Levitical priesthood would perform in the earthly sanctuary as a type of foreshadowing. Knowing that all our brothers are going through like temptations ( 1 Peter 5:9) we should intercede on their behalf through prayers that are sent to heaven. We of course can't intercede directly but can be involved in the process of travailing in the Spirit ( Gal. 4:19 best example).
Jesus I thank you for Someone. I pray Jesus that all the anxiety that they feel will be rebuked and given unto you Jesus. I pray that your comfort and love will replace the anxiety that has been given unto you today Jesus. In your name we pray, in Jesus name amen. "Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you" 1 Peter 5:7. I'm keeping you in my prayers. Please let me know if there is anything else I can pray for with you.
1 Peter 5:11 - To him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.
To Him, and notice the word be is in italics in your bible. It's not in the Greek text. It's a statement. It's not a wish. To Him is glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen. The word dominion is the word for grip which shows control. To Him is the glory, and that's what this letter is about. It's to glorify Jesus Christ. And that He is in control of everything, forever!
1 Peter 5:13 - The church that is at Babylon, elected together with you, saluteth you; and so doth Marcus my son.
He says the church that is in Babylon, and that's a cryptic word for the church in Rome where he wrote the letter from, so if the letter got intercepted, the believers in Rome would not be punished.
This is all I have for 1 Peter. Please keep in mind that this first letter was written to the believers to warn them of the threat against the church from the outside, from the world. Right before Peter died, he wrote 2 Peter as the teaching about the threat to the church from inside the church, false teachers, and false teaching.
And Lord willing, I will share that next with 2 Peter. In the first 11 verses of the first chapter, Peter summarizes everything that he knows about the gospel that he's lived and shared all these years up to his death. He put it in 11 verses!
1 Peter 5:7 - Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.
This verse is a Modal Participle explaining what it means to be humbled under the mighty hand of God. Casting all your care upon him; for He is concerned for you. The other place that the term casting is used is found in Luke 19:35, and this is when they were putting clothes on the donkey before Jesus got up on the donkey to ride into Jerusalem.
So, casting our cares upon Him means you cast them on Him. You put it on Him. And the word care is the word MERIMNA, a very special word in the New Testament. It's the word for anxiety and worry. And basically, it is a word that represents the occupation of the attention of the mind. Not the occupation of the mind, but the occupation of the attention of the mind.
I'm saved, and now the Lord wants to renew my mind. So, Satan keeps me occupied, tired, thinking of all these things that I have to deal with. Cast all your care upon the Lord because the Lord is concerned about you.
1 Peter 5:10 - But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you.
But the God of all grace, who has called us unto His eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after you have suffered a while, He Himself will come and do four things:
He will perfect you. That's the word mend, KATARTIDZO. Secondly, stablish. It means to fix like a pillar. He will strengthen you. That is, He will make you solid. And settle you means to put a foundation under you.
But notice it is after you have suffered for a while. It's like he's saying the message is after you're broken, God will put you back together again and mend you like you're supposed to be, make you solid as a pillar, and put a solid foundation under you too, in your resistance to Satan!
1 Peter 5:3 - Neither as being lords over God's heritage, but being ensamples to the flock.
Thirdly, neither as being lords over God's heritage. Don't dominate. God's heritage is the allotted portion to you. But being examples to the flock.
Two things: the word ensamples, or examples is TUPOS. It's where we get our word type from, like in typewriter. The typewriter leaves an imprint. And secondly, it says to the flock, but in the Greek text, it's of the flock. There's a big difference. Instead of being an example to the flock, be an example of the flock. Be an example of what a Christian is. Have that reality in your own walk with the Lord.
1 Peter 5:6 - Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time:
He says Humble yourselves therefore, and here's a translation change:
Instead of humble yourselves, you should understand it to be "be humbled." It's a Passive Voice in the Greek. I don't humble myself. What a tragedy that would be, and it's called pride! Be humbled therefore under the mighty hand of God.
And here's exactly what the Greek is saying:
Submit to God's humbling process under His mighty hand. As He keeps trying to push you down every time you pop up in whatever area of life you're popping up in, with your self-sufficiency that you don't need to surrender to Christ, submit to His humbling process under His mighty hand, and He will exalt you in due time:
1 Peter 5:2 - Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof, not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind;
Here's the command in Verse 2: Feed the flock of God. The word feed (POIMANATE) is the verb form of the word shepherd, which means to provide or furnish food. Feed the flock of God!
Interesting that it says feed the "flock" of God. The term flock in Greek is the diminutive form of the term flock, and it means little flock, the small flock. He never intended it to be big. That's why Jesus in the parable of the tree, the mustard seed that grew to be a big tree, abnormal. And the birds which represented evil came and lodged in its branches. It's interesting that in the early church, they were all small groups. Feed the little flock which is among you.
This next phrase is called a Modal Participle: taking the oversight, EPISKIPOS, Episcopalian, to observe over, to take the oversight of someone. And there are three presentations here of the motive for feeding the flock of God, overseeing them with three motives:
Number 1: Not by constraint. He's not talking about how you treat people. He's talking about the leaders, not out of necessity, but do it willingly; So, the motive for ministry should be willingly, voluntarily, not out of necessity.
Secondly: Not for filthy lucre, meaning shameful gain. Some in ministry are guilty of that. There are pastors that are bringing in tons of money each year, and they spend most of their time building their mansion, and they don't have much time for ministry. That is shameful gain, things they shouldn't even be involved in, the things of the world.
Not for shameful gain, but of a ready mind; spend your time in preparation. Fill your mind with the things of God. That's the food that you have to give.
Hebrews 13:15 - By him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name.
The term giving thanks, giving is a Present Participle, confessing praise and thanks to His name. God says I don't want animal sacrifices. I want the sacrifice of praise and thanks. And again, that's not something to be practiced. He's after our heart, that no matter what is going on, we praise Him and thank Him because we know it's from Him. If we complain and murmur, then we are complaining against God!
Hebrews 13:18 - Pray for us: for we trust we have a good conscience, in all things willing to live honestly.
He says Pray for us. That's a Present Imperative. Imperative is a command. Continue to pray for us.
The reason: For we trust we have a good conscience, and this is based on the fact that we have a clear good conscience before God, therefore pray for us in all things willing to live honestly.
Hebrews 13:20 - Now the God of peace, that brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant,
Now may the God of peace, because the main verb is not until we get down to Verse 21. And it's an Optative mood which means it's a wish. So, we could put the word may in here. Now may the God of peace, concerning prayer, power, that brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus. He's the God of peace, and He raised up Jesus from the dead.
Concerning His position: That great shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant. All of these scripture references in the Old Testament, as well as in the New Testament, say that Jesus is the great shepherd of the sheep: Psalm 23, Isaiah 63:11, Isaiah 40:11, Ezekiel 34:23, John 10:11, 1 Peter 2:25, and 1 Peter 5:4.
Today as I speak there are 19 Tornado warnings and nearly as many severe thunderstorm warnings. Worse; this is supposed to be an unprecedented 5 day event. We have had in the last week or so a 7.0 earthquake in Tonga and the 7.7 in Myanmar.
The wars continue along with rumors of new conflicts that our country is likely to be involved with.
No doubt Christian persecution is still going on; we have seen in recent months the continuing problems in N.E. Nigeria and last month in Syria with martyrdom large scale.
Along with this there is the constant spiritual battle with the world; flesh and the Devil. We need to "buffet ourselves" ( 1 Cor. 9:27) to continue to stay in the fight and endure until the end. I have always said we can learn some things from our enemy: here is a quick review.
He never rests day or night; that is implied by 1 Peter 5:8 Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. Interesting the verses that talk about never sleeping day or night actually refer to God such as in Psalm 121:4 and Isaiah 40:28 but Proverbs 4:16 talks about how evil men cannot sleep without doing evil.
He along with all the other demons know who Christ is and His authority ( James 2:19). Satan obviously is aware of this through His heavenly councils with angels and God as seen in Job 1 and 2. He knows that Christ has the power to turn stones into bread; as well as calling angels to His help as Satan quoted Psalm 91:11:12.
He has His own heirarchy or Kingdom (see Luke 11:18; Ephesians 6:12).
His goal has been consistent since His fall and the beginning of human history ( John 8:44).
I am sure we could find other passages in this vein. Ultimately God causes all good and evil ( Isaiah 45:7). All things are according to His purposes; just as Christ was exalted after His suffering so we shall be and rewarded if we persevere.
Donna, I know where Yakima is. We live near Puget Sound.
I have these Scripture verses for you to meditate upon during this time of sadness, worry for Arthur.
Hebrews 4:16
Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace that we may receive mercy and grace in our time of need.
Hebrews 7:2
Consequently, He (Jesus) is able to save to the uttermost those who draw near to God through Him (Jesus), since He always lives to make intercession for them (Us).
1 Peter 5:7 (We can be comforted, receive peace, and relief from our worry and grief by)
casting all of your anxiety upon Him (Jesus) for He cares for you.
I continue to pray for Arthur and your other son who are together at this time, (most likely not good for each other).
And for you, Momma, who brings to God the needs of your sons. I pray that God will strengthen you in faith, inn physical strength, in hope, and in confidence in God.
I know that this situation is so painful for you and also for Arthur.
I would like to ask you to pray for my friend, Kim, who is bed bound, disabled, so very depressed and not receiving the care she truly needs by not wishing to go into an assisted living situation. I will be taking her to the dentist tomorrow. This will be the first time she has allowed me to see her in 5 years. I am glad to help her, but she is just in a very bad mental and physical place. AS friends, we love each other. But I can only do what she allows me to do, since she is completely mentally competent. He two children both have jobs and can only care for her in the evenings, which isn't good care because they will not get her up out of bed into a wheel chair to come out of her room into the common living space to be able to interact with them. They feed her, clean the house, and other necessary things, but are not to aware of how they can help her to have better daily experiences.
I appreciate your prayers for her and her children. Her husband passed away 1 1/2 yrs. ago.
Why should we be " in Christ " ? ? Who invented " in Christ " ? Are special people become " in Christ " ?
When Jesus died and was Resurrected, He took the Saints from the grave with Him . Every Jew that got saved , they became in Christ .
Romans 16:7
Salute Andronicus and Junia, my kinsmen, and my fellow-prisoners, who are of note among the apostles, who also wereinChristbefore me.
All Salvation from the time Jesus Christ death, burial and resurrection are saved " in Christ " automatically. Apostle Peter recognized his Jewish followers as " in Christ ".
1 Peter 5:14
Greet ye one another with a kiss of charity. Peace be with you all that areinChristJesus. Amen.
Apostle Paul recognized his followers as " in Christ".
2 Corinthians 1:21
Now he which stablisheth us with youinChrist, and hath anointed us, is God;
Because of Jesus Christ being the redeemer for the whole world on the cross and finished nailing everything, we are now justified and it didn't cost anything but our faith in believing.
Romans 3:24
Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that isinChristJesus:
We that are all saved in the Body of Christ.
Romans 12:5
So we, being many, are one bodyinChrist, and every one members one of another.
We can receive wisdom for being in Christ.
1 Corinthians 1:30
But of him are yeinChristJesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption:
Day 22 January 22, 2025 Philippians 4:6-7 KJV Peace Through Prayer West Angeles Church Consecration Calendar
Me being a member at West Angeles Cogic Church Cathedral Los Angeles California
I Pray for God's peace to guard my heart mind, and spiritual actions.
Philippians 4:6 KJV
My Interpetation REDAPPLETREATY4MEONLY:
"God's guarding your heart and mind from ungodly,evil thoughts,voices to act and follow them. Distractions of service obeying God and growth in holiness.A English term is used described as anxiety. Gods wants you to grow in holiness 1 Peter 5:7 KJV and Romans 10:10 KJV. To confirm as Christian and come into his sanctuary-Today's Christian Church to learn about Jesus Christ Holy Bible.
My belief in Romans 10:9:10 KJV I have faith when I pray becoming like God.
Examples of supplication when you pray are for families providing things honest for them, proper food, raiment, necessaries of life."
Ways you can obtain these examples are
diligence
Industry
Support of the Gospel offending not God
St. Paul is a example of a man of his epistles in the New Testament Holy Bible.
Philippians 4:7 KJV
My Interpetation REDAPPLETREATY4MEONLY:
" Jesus Christ is God the Father,The Son, Holy Spirit/Ghost is One God Resurrection correlating to humanity of humane, human rights of human beings.
Associated with donor Myself being (Private Example)
of justification of life, righteousness, blood of Jesus Christ cross and atonement of his sacrifice. Firm-Solid Foundation, Peace springs forth and witness of truth within themselves.
Definition
Peace- no trouble, affliction, persecution. Secures from all condemnation by the law Sin, Satan, the world , your own hearts.
1 Corinthians 16:13 - Watch ye, stand fast in the faith, quit you like men, be strong.
It says first of all, Watch ye, or watch. This is a Present Imperative which means to be continually watching! The word is the opposite of the word for sleep. So, it means to be on guard. Be awake! Jesus used the word in Mark 14:38 when the disciples fell asleep when he was praying, and He said stay awake, be watchful.
Also, Peter, in 1 Peter 5:8, he says be watchful, be sober, because your adversary the devil is walking around like a roaring lion seeking whom he may devour. He's not saying don't get physical sleep. But literally "Wake up, spiritually. Wake up. Be on the alert because Satan is waiting to catch you off guard. That's command number one.
Command number two: Stand firm in the faith. In Ephesians Chapter 6, Paul tells us put on the whole armor of God in order that you may be able to stand. Not run, not even fight, because he's already been defeated. Stand firm in the faith!
Number three: quit you like men. "And like a man, I've quit several times!" No, that's not what it means. It's literally one Greek word that means be a man. It's associated with courage! Remember what God told Joshua in Joshua Chapter 1 Verses 8 through 11? Be of courage Joshua for I am with you wherever you go. It's not a human courage. It's a spiritual trust that no matter what, we can face anything in life because Christ is there.
May we all be blessed by the reading of God's Word. Amen !
Luke 11:9
"And I say unto you, Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you."
Ezekiel 3:21
"Nevertheless if thou warn the righteous man, that the righteous sin not, and he doth not sin, he shall surely live, because he is warned; also thou hast delivered thy soul."
1 Peter 5:4
"And when the chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of glory that fadeth not away."
I come to You with honesty, because You already see my heart.
You know this season of the year is scary for me, a time when memories of my husband's past health issues stir up fear, worry, and old emotions.
But today I choose to bring all of this to You.
I lay it at the Cross. Your Word says in 2 Timothy 1:7 that You have not given me a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind.
So right now, I reject fear, and I receive the power, love, and sound mind You freely offer me.
Let Your peace settle deeper in me than any anxious thought.
Your Word also says in 1 Peter 5:7 to cast all my anxiety on You because You care for me.
So Lord, I cast it: every fear, every old memory, every "what if," every tightness in my chest, every intrusive thought.
I place them in Your hands, not mine.
You care for me more than I can understand, and I release the weight of worry to You. I lift up the "fiery darts" that come : the sudden fears, the feelings, the emotional pulls, and instead I take up the shield of faith, just as You command in Ephesians 6:16.
Extinguish every dart of fear, every whisper of danger that is not from You, Lord, off of me and my entire family and our loved ones.
Fill me and my family with Your truth so fully, that fear has nowhere to land.
Lord, Your Word says in James 1:19 to be quick to listen, slow to speak, slow to become angry,
so help me in my relationships, especially with my husband, to walk with grace, patience, and peace.
Teach my heart to communicate with love, and soften any place in me that feels overly burdened, overwhelmed, or unheard.
And Father, You tell me in 1 Peter 3:7 and Ephesians 4:15 to walk in understanding and speak the truth in love.
So I ask You to strengthen our unity: spiritually, emotionally, and in communication.
Let my words be filled with gentleness, and let my heart feel safe,held, and understood.
Like Hannah in 1 Samuel 1, who poured out her soul before You, I pour out my emotions to You w/out shame
1 Peter 5:7 "Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you."
John 14:13 "And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son."
1 Thessalonians 5:17 "Pray without ceasing."
Blessings
Blessings
Matthew 11:28 "Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest."
1 Peter 5:7 "Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you."
John 14:13 "And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son."
1 Thessalonians 5:17 "Pray without ceasing."
Blessings
continuation - part 3
3. The Voice of the Enemy (Satan, Demons, The World)
The Bible clearly identifies a voice of temptation, accusation, and deceit that opposes God.
Genesis 3:1-5: The serpent (Satan) is the first voice of temptation and deceit, questioning God's word: "Did God really say?... You will not certainly die."
John 8:44: Jesus said about the Devil: "He was a murderer from the beginning, not holding to the truth, for there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks his native language, for he is a liar and the father of lies."
1 Peter 5:8: "Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour." The "roaring" represents the voice of intimidation, fear, and accusation.
1 John 2:15-16: The voice of the "world" (value systems contrary to God) is also an influence: "Do not love the world or anything in the world... For everything in the world-the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life-comes not from the Father but from the world."
Matthew 11:28 "Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest."
1 Peter 5:7 "Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you."
John 14:13 "And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son."
Blessings
1 Peter 5:7 "Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you."
John 14:13 "And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son."
1 Thessalonians 5:17 "Pray without ceasing."
Blessings
1 Peter 5:7 "Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you."
John 14:13 "And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son."
Blessings
"And whosoever shall exalt himself shall be abased; and he that shall humble himself shall be exalted."
1 Peter 5:6-7
"Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time. Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you."
Blessings
As you would remember that Babylon was destroyed by Cyrus (of Persia) in 539 BC, with only a few folk and structures existing in that region till the 7th Century AD. Peter's reference to it in 1 Peter 5:13 was not about a Church functioning in that city that was sending greetings to the scattered believers in Asia Minor ( 1 Peter 1:1), but he was referring to the city of Rome. His letter was being sent, distributed and read by many of these scattered believers and could quite easily fall into the wrong hands, i.e. the Roman authorities. So, Peter uses this word, Babylon, as a cover for the city of Rome, so as to avoid trouble & persecution from the authorities (at least for the short term; persecution would come later). Peter was living in Rome and very likely connected to this "church at Babylon" during the last decade of his life, and wrote his epistle in 63 AD just before the outbreak of Nero's persecution in 64 AD. It is believed that Peter died three years later.
Hope this snippet of background info will help you picture the situation in Rome at that time, with Peter effectively ministering to the believers gathered there and his tender heart of concern and ministry to other believers scattered elsewhere. Every blessing brother.
"The church that is at Babylon, elected together with you, saluteth you; and so doth Marcus my son." 1 Peter 5:13 KJV
When it comes to stupidity; man seemingly has enough to go around to destroy himself without the Devil getting involved. 1 Peter 5:8 states: Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: and Job 1:7 And the LORD said unto Satan, Whence comest thou? Then Satan answered the LORD, and said, From going to and fro in the earth, and from walking up and down in it.
When we consider these things; Isaiah 24 helps to clarify events: And it shall come to pass in that day, that the LORD shall punish the host of the high ones that are on high, and the kings of the earth upon the earth. (v. 21 I believe). This chapter is so relevant for today I think I will focus my next study on it.
Now some today still hold to correct theology regarding man's ultimate helplessness in sin and inability to do any good; and the need to repent (actually given as a gift by God) and turn from his wicked ways through the help of the Holy Spirit. What many if not almost all fail to communicate effectively is that we change MASTERS in that change of heart from Satan to the Lord Jesus Christ. When we realize that being in league with spiritual darkness also adds to our judgment we understand better what Jesus means by hell was meant for the Devil and his angels ( Matt. 25:41). The world as it were is the conduit through Satan's organization of rulership over governments and regions of the earth to align with his campaign. He uses the flesh to physically act out that which is impressed on the souls of unregenerate man; that is rebellion to seek selfishly those earthly pleasures which soon shall pass.
This concept makes us comprehend how we are slaves of righteousness ( Romans 6:18 in NKJV which artificial intelligence lead me to; which is stronger than just servants in regular KJV.) Yes we are also His friends ( John 15:15) as the enmity was ended ( Eph. 2:16) because of Calvary.
"Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you."
John 14:13
"And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son."
Psalms 55:17
"Evening, and morning, and at noon, will I pray, and cry aloud: and he shall hear my voice."
1 Thessalonians 5:17
"Pray without ceasing."
Blessings
"And whosoever shall exalt himself shall be abased; and he that shall humble himself shall be exalted."
1 Peter 5:6-7
"Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time. Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you."
Blessings
"And whosoever shall exalt himself shall be abased; and he that shall humble himself shall be exalted."
1 Peter 5:6-7
"Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time. Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you."
Blessings
1 Peter 5:8-10
8 Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:
9 Whom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world.
10 But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you.
I have touched on verse 8; but often verse 9 isn't considered. How often do we pray for others so that they will not fall for temptation? Most often I would guess that would be a mother praying for their children; but all of us should pray for our fellowservants in Christ in that regard. It is easy (at least for me) to assume I am the only one going through stuff and isolation is a tool of the enemy. We need a healthy balance of "alone time" as well as healthy fellowship. It is too often I fear that people are either stuck in one mode or another.
Prayer is an action which we make a conscious choice to routinely practice. It also should involve an openness to the Spirit for spontaneous prayer. Again there should be both or a person either tends to be restricted to the people and place he or she is gathered and a particular agenda. Answered prayers need to be remembered even if they are months or years later.
Today more than ever proper praise of the Lord is imperative if we are to have close fellowship with Him and with His church.
I am not even sure if many who call themselves non cessationists shall I say open to the Spirit's giftings are still this way today that much but instead are drawn to emotions instead. A proper frame of mind will indeed cause our emotions to properly express the Spirit's work. Hard prayers such as I brought up in my first post to convict hearts for many will never be approached because our human compassion overrides God's plans and purposes.
"Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you."
John 14:13
"And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son."
Psalms 55:17
"Evening, and morning, and at noon, will I pray, and cry aloud: and he shall hear my voice."
Blessings
I have also commented in fairly recent posts on the fact that demons of a particular vice don't take a solo act (such as a demon of "lust"). Any sin which is available gives the "legal access" as it were; and when there is a vice displayed in our outer actions; no doubt there are other things where God's law is broken that are also areas of strongholds where demons can attack us. No doubt they work together in their own heirarchy with different actions but a demon for instance that lingers with a family line certainly has several tricks up its sleeve.
A very serious and significant area of attack is MUSIC. I have brought this up before but the concept of only hard rock or repetitive drumbeats as being evil is not true; the subtle hypnotic effect of certain harmonies is another major element; along with the spells and trances that artists often follow themselves or are conditioned by the industry to involve themselves in is a factor as well. This was what caused an attack in my mind at night many years ago with some folk music from the 60's a spirit of humanism is how I would describe it. For women emotional responses often are deep in the soul from outwardly pleasant songs. Men of course respond with fleshly and carnal thoughts in a similiar way as the spirit of the age with much country music especially dominates (sleeping around as a major theme along with drinking; two basic themes in that style of music).
The breakup of the family with Divorce of almost 50 percent and sadly with Protestants higher than the overall statistics for the population as a whole is appalling. No doubt a "religious" spirit is involved here and pride where subtle suggestions bolstered by the church accepting these things as collateral damage rather than helping to FIGHT so save a marriage is a glaring issue; and from my experiences no DOUBT is demonically inspired to seek the greener pastures or as an old song says "fruit from another". ( 1 Peter 5:8
Another benefit of the "house church" community that I attended a few years back was the lengthy prayers. There was a minimum of a two hour prayer session for ourselves (as everyone involved did at least a few days a week of street and nursing home ministry) on Fridays for one example. These days in church it is hard to find anything near that length; for those who do attend. Sundays usually involve only a few minutes and usually given by the Pastor after requests are taken at Sunday school along with a brief prayer before and after the service. Thankfully there is now a Sunday evening service for an hour which allows for some more prayer at my local congregation.
Some of us at least have probably heard second hand stories at least of those who have prayed decades for their children who finally saw the fruit of their efforts with repentance. I don't believe that is an iron clad guarantee either but that it is the means and method to effectively reach the elect that God chooses to utilize for such purposes. Jesus acts as high Priest to us.
26 Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered.
27 And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God. ( Romans 8:26-27)
Jesus according to Hebrews acts as the "High Priest" ( Heb. 4:14-16). Thus He would fulfill the role of being in the inner sanctuary that the O.T. Levitical priesthood would perform in the earthly sanctuary as a type of foreshadowing. Knowing that all our brothers are going through like temptations ( 1 Peter 5:9) we should intercede on their behalf through prayers that are sent to heaven. We of course can't intercede directly but can be involved in the process of travailing in the Spirit ( Gal. 4:19 best example).
1 Peter 5:11 - To him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.
To Him, and notice the word be is in italics in your bible. It's not in the Greek text. It's a statement. It's not a wish. To Him is glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen. The word dominion is the word for grip which shows control. To Him is the glory, and that's what this letter is about. It's to glorify Jesus Christ. And that He is in control of everything, forever!
1 Peter 5:13 - The church that is at Babylon, elected together with you, saluteth you; and so doth Marcus my son.
He says the church that is in Babylon, and that's a cryptic word for the church in Rome where he wrote the letter from, so if the letter got intercepted, the believers in Rome would not be punished.
This is all I have for 1 Peter. Please keep in mind that this first letter was written to the believers to warn them of the threat against the church from the outside, from the world. Right before Peter died, he wrote 2 Peter as the teaching about the threat to the church from inside the church, false teachers, and false teaching.
And Lord willing, I will share that next with 2 Peter. In the first 11 verses of the first chapter, Peter summarizes everything that he knows about the gospel that he's lived and shared all these years up to his death. He put it in 11 verses!
Blessings to you all in Christ!
1 Peter 5:7 - Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.
This verse is a Modal Participle explaining what it means to be humbled under the mighty hand of God. Casting all your care upon him; for He is concerned for you. The other place that the term casting is used is found in Luke 19:35, and this is when they were putting clothes on the donkey before Jesus got up on the donkey to ride into Jerusalem.
So, casting our cares upon Him means you cast them on Him. You put it on Him. And the word care is the word MERIMNA, a very special word in the New Testament. It's the word for anxiety and worry. And basically, it is a word that represents the occupation of the attention of the mind. Not the occupation of the mind, but the occupation of the attention of the mind.
I'm saved, and now the Lord wants to renew my mind. So, Satan keeps me occupied, tired, thinking of all these things that I have to deal with. Cast all your care upon the Lord because the Lord is concerned about you.
1 Peter 5:10 - But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you.
But the God of all grace, who has called us unto His eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after you have suffered a while, He Himself will come and do four things:
He will perfect you. That's the word mend, KATARTIDZO. Secondly, stablish. It means to fix like a pillar. He will strengthen you. That is, He will make you solid. And settle you means to put a foundation under you.
But notice it is after you have suffered for a while. It's like he's saying the message is after you're broken, God will put you back together again and mend you like you're supposed to be, make you solid as a pillar, and put a solid foundation under you too, in your resistance to Satan!
1 Peter 5:3 - Neither as being lords over God's heritage, but being ensamples to the flock.
Thirdly, neither as being lords over God's heritage. Don't dominate. God's heritage is the allotted portion to you. But being examples to the flock.
Two things: the word ensamples, or examples is TUPOS. It's where we get our word type from, like in typewriter. The typewriter leaves an imprint. And secondly, it says to the flock, but in the Greek text, it's of the flock. There's a big difference. Instead of being an example to the flock, be an example of the flock. Be an example of what a Christian is. Have that reality in your own walk with the Lord.
1 Peter 5:6 - Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time:
He says Humble yourselves therefore, and here's a translation change:
Instead of humble yourselves, you should understand it to be "be humbled." It's a Passive Voice in the Greek. I don't humble myself. What a tragedy that would be, and it's called pride! Be humbled therefore under the mighty hand of God.
And here's exactly what the Greek is saying:
Submit to God's humbling process under His mighty hand. As He keeps trying to push you down every time you pop up in whatever area of life you're popping up in, with your self-sufficiency that you don't need to surrender to Christ, submit to His humbling process under His mighty hand, and He will exalt you in due time:
1 Peter 5:2 - Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof, not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind;
Here's the command in Verse 2: Feed the flock of God. The word feed (POIMANATE) is the verb form of the word shepherd, which means to provide or furnish food. Feed the flock of God!
Interesting that it says feed the "flock" of God. The term flock in Greek is the diminutive form of the term flock, and it means little flock, the small flock. He never intended it to be big. That's why Jesus in the parable of the tree, the mustard seed that grew to be a big tree, abnormal. And the birds which represented evil came and lodged in its branches. It's interesting that in the early church, they were all small groups. Feed the little flock which is among you.
This next phrase is called a Modal Participle: taking the oversight, EPISKIPOS, Episcopalian, to observe over, to take the oversight of someone. And there are three presentations here of the motive for feeding the flock of God, overseeing them with three motives:
Number 1: Not by constraint. He's not talking about how you treat people. He's talking about the leaders, not out of necessity, but do it willingly; So, the motive for ministry should be willingly, voluntarily, not out of necessity.
Secondly: Not for filthy lucre, meaning shameful gain. Some in ministry are guilty of that. There are pastors that are bringing in tons of money each year, and they spend most of their time building their mansion, and they don't have much time for ministry. That is shameful gain, things they shouldn't even be involved in, the things of the world.
Not for shameful gain, but of a ready mind; spend your time in preparation. Fill your mind with the things of God. That's the food that you have to give.
Hebrews 13:15 - By him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name.
The term giving thanks, giving is a Present Participle, confessing praise and thanks to His name. God says I don't want animal sacrifices. I want the sacrifice of praise and thanks. And again, that's not something to be practiced. He's after our heart, that no matter what is going on, we praise Him and thank Him because we know it's from Him. If we complain and murmur, then we are complaining against God!
Hebrews 13:18 - Pray for us: for we trust we have a good conscience, in all things willing to live honestly.
He says Pray for us. That's a Present Imperative. Imperative is a command. Continue to pray for us.
The reason: For we trust we have a good conscience, and this is based on the fact that we have a clear good conscience before God, therefore pray for us in all things willing to live honestly.
Hebrews 13:20 - Now the God of peace, that brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant,
Now may the God of peace, because the main verb is not until we get down to Verse 21. And it's an Optative mood which means it's a wish. So, we could put the word may in here. Now may the God of peace, concerning prayer, power, that brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus. He's the God of peace, and He raised up Jesus from the dead.
Concerning His position: That great shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant. All of these scripture references in the Old Testament, as well as in the New Testament, say that Jesus is the great shepherd of the sheep: Psalm 23, Isaiah 63:11, Isaiah 40:11, Ezekiel 34:23, John 10:11, 1 Peter 2:25, and 1 Peter 5:4.
All of this was to lead up to the verb.
Today as I speak there are 19 Tornado warnings and nearly as many severe thunderstorm warnings. Worse; this is supposed to be an unprecedented 5 day event. We have had in the last week or so a 7.0 earthquake in Tonga and the 7.7 in Myanmar.
The wars continue along with rumors of new conflicts that our country is likely to be involved with.
No doubt Christian persecution is still going on; we have seen in recent months the continuing problems in N.E. Nigeria and last month in Syria with martyrdom large scale.
Along with this there is the constant spiritual battle with the world; flesh and the Devil. We need to "buffet ourselves" ( 1 Cor. 9:27) to continue to stay in the fight and endure until the end. I have always said we can learn some things from our enemy: here is a quick review.
He never rests day or night; that is implied by 1 Peter 5:8 Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. Interesting the verses that talk about never sleeping day or night actually refer to God such as in Psalm 121:4 and Isaiah 40:28 but Proverbs 4:16 talks about how evil men cannot sleep without doing evil.
He along with all the other demons know who Christ is and His authority ( James 2:19). Satan obviously is aware of this through His heavenly councils with angels and God as seen in Job 1 and 2. He knows that Christ has the power to turn stones into bread; as well as calling angels to His help as Satan quoted Psalm 91:11:12.
He has His own heirarchy or Kingdom (see Luke 11:18; Ephesians 6:12).
His goal has been consistent since His fall and the beginning of human history ( John 8:44).
I am sure we could find other passages in this vein. Ultimately God causes all good and evil ( Isaiah 45:7). All things are according to His purposes; just as Christ was exalted after His suffering so we shall be and rewarded if we persevere.
(see Hebrews 11:6).
Fight the good fight.
Donna, I know where Yakima is. We live near Puget Sound.
I have these Scripture verses for you to meditate upon during this time of sadness, worry for Arthur.
Hebrews 4:16
Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace that we may receive mercy and grace in our time of need.
Hebrews 7:2
Consequently, He (Jesus) is able to save to the uttermost those who draw near to God through Him (Jesus), since He always lives to make intercession for them (Us).
1 Peter 5:7 (We can be comforted, receive peace, and relief from our worry and grief by)
casting all of your anxiety upon Him (Jesus) for He cares for you.
I continue to pray for Arthur and your other son who are together at this time, (most likely not good for each other).
And for you, Momma, who brings to God the needs of your sons. I pray that God will strengthen you in faith, inn physical strength, in hope, and in confidence in God.
I know that this situation is so painful for you and also for Arthur.
I would like to ask you to pray for my friend, Kim, who is bed bound, disabled, so very depressed and not receiving the care she truly needs by not wishing to go into an assisted living situation. I will be taking her to the dentist tomorrow. This will be the first time she has allowed me to see her in 5 years. I am glad to help her, but she is just in a very bad mental and physical place. AS friends, we love each other. But I can only do what she allows me to do, since she is completely mentally competent. He two children both have jobs and can only care for her in the evenings, which isn't good care because they will not get her up out of bed into a wheel chair to come out of her room into the common living space to be able to interact with them. They feed her, clean the house, and other necessary things, but are not to aware of how they can help her to have better daily experiences.
I appreciate your prayers for her and her children. Her husband passed away 1 1/2 yrs. ago.
When Jesus died and was Resurrected, He took the Saints from the grave with Him . Every Jew that got saved , they became in Christ .
Romans 16:7
Salute Andronicus and Junia, my kinsmen, and my fellow-prisoners, who are of note among the apostles, who also wereinChristbefore me.
All Salvation from the time Jesus Christ death, burial and resurrection are saved " in Christ " automatically. Apostle Peter recognized his Jewish followers as " in Christ ".
1 Peter 5:14
Greet ye one another with a kiss of charity. Peace be with you all that areinChristJesus. Amen.
Apostle Paul recognized his followers as " in Christ".
2 Corinthians 1:21
Now he which stablisheth us with youinChrist, and hath anointed us, is God;
Because of Jesus Christ being the redeemer for the whole world on the cross and finished nailing everything, we are now justified and it didn't cost anything but our faith in believing.
Romans 3:24
Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that isinChristJesus:
We that are all saved in the Body of Christ.
Romans 12:5
So we, being many, are one bodyinChrist, and every one members one of another.
We can receive wisdom for being in Christ.
1 Corinthians 1:30
But of him are yeinChristJesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption:
Ray, in Christ 1 Corinthians 15:1-4
Me being a member at West Angeles Cogic Church Cathedral Los Angeles California
I Pray for God's peace to guard my heart mind, and spiritual actions.
Philippians 4:6 KJV
My Interpetation REDAPPLETREATY4MEONLY:
"God's guarding your heart and mind from ungodly,evil thoughts,voices to act and follow them. Distractions of service obeying God and growth in holiness.A English term is used described as anxiety. Gods wants you to grow in holiness 1 Peter 5:7 KJV and Romans 10:10 KJV. To confirm as Christian and come into his sanctuary-Today's Christian Church to learn about Jesus Christ Holy Bible.
My belief in Romans 10:9:10 KJV I have faith when I pray becoming like God.
Examples of supplication when you pray are for families providing things honest for them, proper food, raiment, necessaries of life."
Ways you can obtain these examples are
diligence
Industry
Support of the Gospel offending not God
St. Paul is a example of a man of his epistles in the New Testament Holy Bible.
Philippians 4:7 KJV
My Interpetation REDAPPLETREATY4MEONLY:
" Jesus Christ is God the Father,The Son, Holy Spirit/Ghost is One God Resurrection correlating to humanity of humane, human rights of human beings.
Associated with donor Myself being (Private Example)
of justification of life, righteousness, blood of Jesus Christ cross and atonement of his sacrifice. Firm-Solid Foundation, Peace springs forth and witness of truth within themselves.
Definition
Peace- no trouble, affliction, persecution. Secures from all condemnation by the law Sin, Satan, the world , your own hearts.
Word Spoken and Written by REDAPPLETREATY4MEONLY
1 Corinthians 16:13 - Watch ye, stand fast in the faith, quit you like men, be strong.
It says first of all, Watch ye, or watch. This is a Present Imperative which means to be continually watching! The word is the opposite of the word for sleep. So, it means to be on guard. Be awake! Jesus used the word in Mark 14:38 when the disciples fell asleep when he was praying, and He said stay awake, be watchful.
Also, Peter, in 1 Peter 5:8, he says be watchful, be sober, because your adversary the devil is walking around like a roaring lion seeking whom he may devour. He's not saying don't get physical sleep. But literally "Wake up, spiritually. Wake up. Be on the alert because Satan is waiting to catch you off guard. That's command number one.
Command number two: Stand firm in the faith. In Ephesians Chapter 6, Paul tells us put on the whole armor of God in order that you may be able to stand. Not run, not even fight, because he's already been defeated. Stand firm in the faith!
Number three: quit you like men. "And like a man, I've quit several times!" No, that's not what it means. It's literally one Greek word that means be a man. It's associated with courage! Remember what God told Joshua in Joshua Chapter 1 Verses 8 through 11? Be of courage Joshua for I am with you wherever you go. It's not a human courage. It's a spiritual trust that no matter what, we can face anything in life because Christ is there.
Luke 11:9
"And I say unto you, Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you."
Ezekiel 3:21
"Nevertheless if thou warn the righteous man, that the righteous sin not, and he doth not sin, he shall surely live, because he is warned; also thou hast delivered thy soul."
1 Peter 5:4
"And when the chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of glory that fadeth not away."
Lord help us all.