My Elevator

My Elevator

My foes, with their mouth, dig pits for me.
Their words are as dirt conceived to bury me.
They yearn to break my will by intimidation.
They query my integrity amid the congregation.
They mistrust my motives; criticize my ability.
They brashly boost themselves, void of humility.
They slyly mask their mischief by a flimsy guise,
Oblivious that God observes with all-seeing eyes.
When I consider their deeds, it grieves my soul,
For my one desire is to win my God-given goal.
I beseech my God in the midst of my distress.
He bestows grace lifting me above wickedness.
His word reminds that He has me on His mind.
His Spirit sways me to be forgiving and kind.
When I petition, my Elevator opens the door.
He takes me in and takes me up to a higher floor.
He mystifies my foes by His favor towards me.
He uses their evil effort to show forth His glory.
I wholeheartedly recommend my Elevator to you.
His name is Jesus; He lifts above sin and enemies, too.

Psalms 3
1. Lord, how are they increased that trouble me! many are they that rise up against me. 2. Many there be which say of my soul, There is no help for him in God. Selah. 3. But thou, O Lord, art a shield for me; my glory, and the lifter up of mine head. 4. I cried unto the Lord with my voice, and he heard me out of his holy hill. Selah. 5. I laid me down and slept; I awaked; for the Lord sustained me. 6. I will not be afraid of ten thousands of people, that have set themselves against me round about. 7. Arise, O Lord; save me, O my God: for thou hast smitten all mine enemies upon the cheek bone; thou hast broken the teeth of the ungodly. 8. Salvation belongeth unto the Lord: thy blessing is upon thy people. Selah.

I Owe Jesus
RevLDReedSr
12/10/09

Giving without Gaining

G i v i n g without G a i n i n g

There are those who delight greatly in giving
To outwardly showcase their reputable living.
They boast of their numerous noble deeds
In providing, to remedy the poor’s needs.
They may appear to have the purest aim.
But, a wise review reveals a great shame.
They do not contribute to bring God glory
But, seek publicity for their self-serving story.
They give not from a heart spirited with love.
For, they love neither humanity nor God above.
Their insincere charity achieves no enduring gain.
True charity springs from love one does not feign.
As when God confirmed His love toward all men,
He sent His beloved Son to end the rule and ruin of sin.

Let love lead you. Let love guide you. Let love fill you.
Let love live inside of you.
Jesus is LOVE…
For love He gave His life that you may gain life.
Receive Jesus, gain love and eternal life.
Then give love that others may perhaps gain Jesus.

1 Corinthians 13:3 (Amplified Bible) - Even if I dole out all that I have [to the poor in providing] food, and if I surrender my body to be burned or in order that I may glory, but have not love (God's love in me), I gain nothing.

I Owe Jesus
RevLDReedSr
12/8/09

Go Through

Go Through

When the dark night of misery shadows your way,
Go through, in dark times God leads, as if it were day.

When you must cross life’s rivers that rage,
Go through, God will usher you safely through every stage.

When in the lowest valley where mighty men despair,
Go through, the Lord’s presence will set your mind at rest there.

When your soul is tested in life’s furnace of fire,
Go through, neither heat nor flame will harm; God is your fortifier.

When challenged to a battle by your devilish foes,
Go through, God can grant victory, without you ever coming to blows.

When charged by God to carry out a great mission,
Go through, God will work in and through you to bring His will to fruition.

When faced with suffering for bearing your cross after the Lord,
Go through, in due course God shall bless you with your heavenly reward.

When crossing your wilderness en route to the Promised Land,
Go through, you are sure to make it, the Lord upholds you by His right hand.

Multitudes have gone through the hell and high water of life and lived to tell their testimony. By faith, they experienced first hand God’s awesome delivering power. Whatever challenge is staring you down, rise to meet it in the strength of the Lord, for He is well able to carry you all the way through. Christ went through the torturous cross that He may pay our sin debt. By trusting in Him, we have a Savior that promised to be there to see us through the ever-unfolding but unpredictable seasons of this life into the beyond words, but yet-to-be seen era of life everlasting.

Isaiah 43:2-3a (New Living Translation) - When you go through deep waters, I will be with you. When you go through rivers of difficulty, you will not drown. When you walk through the fire of oppression, you will not be burned up; the flames will not consume you. For I am the Lord, your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior.

RevLDReedSr
I Owe Jesus
12/7/2009

Normal Day

"Normal day, let me be aware of the treasure you are. Let me learn from you, love you, savor you, bless you before you depart. Let me not pass you by in quest of some rare and perfect tomorrow. Let me hold you while I may, for it will not always be so. One day I shall...bury my face in the pillow, or raise my hands to the sky, and want, more than all the world your return."

Quote by Mary Jean Irion

The Gift of Today

The Gift of Today

This is the day which the Lord hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.
Psalms 118:24

Daybreak,
Opportunity knocks
For those yearning
For a fresh beginning.
Memory uploads yesterday’s cache file.
Reflect…Release…Now relish this day,
Because today is a gift from God.
The Almighty granted today to us-the undeserving.
Be glad in this coveted precious honor.
The Sovereign God of all creation
Who is gracious and merciful
Favored you with today.
Become…Love…Rejoice.
Praise Jesus.
Hallelujah!

RevLDReedSr
I Owe Jesus
12/7/09

The Blessed and Only Potentate

The Blessed and Only Potentate

Praise Jesus-King of Kings and Lord of Lords,
Who wrought blessed peace and all it affords.
The Man who His own people refused to crown,
He, despite cons to cross Him out, gained renown.
The Beloved’s reign is by will of His Father above.
The Father granted Him this honor out of love.
Immortality and eternal esteem are in His hands.
His glory shines victoriously in all nations and lands.
His Kingdom, no other power can ever dethrone.
All things are under His feet-every authority known.
He sustains all substance by the word of His power.
His word shall try angels and men come judgment’s hour.
In time, every knee must bow and all tongues confess.
In the presence of God Almighty, all will duly acquiesce.
For now, the glorious Gospel of our King may we proclaim,
Declaring that He saves whosoever calls on His holy name.

Jesus reigns! He reigns majestically in glorious splendor.
He is the humble King who for love stepped out of glory and stepped up to the cross to die for you and I. Does He reign as King on the throne of your heart?

Which in His times He shall shew, who is the blessed and only Potentate, the King of kings, and Lord of Lords; Who only hath immortality, dwelling in the light which no man can approach unto; whom no man hath seen, nor can see: to whom be honour and power everlasting. Amen.
1 Timothy 6:15-16

I Owe Jesus
RevLDReedSr
11/16/09

Pit Perspectives

Pit Perspectives

Do you feel as though you are in a rut? Further yet do you feel you are in a place deeper than a rut? Then you may be experiencing life in a pit. Your pit may be a pit of persecution, a pit of regret, a pit of self-loathing, a pit of betrayal, a pit of mourning, or a pit of anger or hatred.

Pit- a hole (especially one used as a cistern or a prison) the worst or most unpleasant thing, person, or place it is possible to find--hell- a state or place of extreme pain or misery, or something or somebody that causes extreme pain or misery

Perspectives-a particular evaluation of a situation or facts, especially from one person's point of view; a measured or objective assessment of a situation, giving all aspects their comparative importance

In your pit, you may experience:
Pain from pruning- severe emotional or mental distress caused by the cutting away or removal of useless or unhealthy elements to encourage fuller growth.
Introspection- self-examination- the detailed mental examination of your own feelings, thoughts, and motives

Trepidation-apprehension- fear or uneasiness about the future or a future event

By way of your pit you are being:
Prepared for progression
Induced to righteousness
Transformed by truth and trial

Practical victory strategies for overcoming your pit:
Pray without ceasing
Ingest and incline your heart to obey the word of God
Turn from sin and trust the Spirit of God to lead you

Your pit should bring forth growth in:
Praise to God
Intimacy with God
Testimony for God

God blessings for you in overcoming your pit:
Promotion from God
Increased faith in God
Triumph over faults and foes

Jesus came into the pit that is the world and triumphed over it. It was something that He had to go through that we might be freed from sin and made overcomers through Him. Through Him you shall have victory over the pits in your life. Do you know Him?

Psalms 88:1. O Lord God of my salvation, I have cried day and night before thee: 2. Let my prayer come before thee: incline thine ear unto my cry; 3. For my soul is full of troubles: and my life draweth nigh unto the grave. 4. I am counted with them that go down into the pit: I am as a man that hath no strength: 5. Free among the dead, like the slain that lie in the grave, whom thou rememberest no more: and they are cut off from thy hand. 6. Thou hast laid me in the lowest pit, in darkness, in the deeps. 7. Thy wrath lieth hard upon me, and thou hast afflicted me with all thy waves. Selah.

Psalms 40:1. I waited patiently for the Lord; and he inclined unto me, and heard my cry. 2. He brought me up also out of an horrible pit, out of the miry clay, and set my feet upon a rock, and established my goings. 3. And he hath put a new song in my mouth, even praise unto our God: many shall see it, and fear, and shall trust in the Lord.

RevLDReedSr
I Owe Jesus
11/11/09

A Place to Belong

A Place to Belong

Have you found the place where you belong?
That place of sanctuary away from the taxing throng…
That place where you know you are accepted…
That place where your feelings are not neglected…
That place where you feel safe and secure…
That place that enlivens, enabling you to endure…
That place where love is freely expressed…
That place where you are soothed when stressed…
That place where you can let your hair down…
That place where you exit smiling after entering with a frown…
That place that draws you back when you’re away…
That place that gets you without having words to say…
Are you searching for that coveted gracious place?
Where even when you fall you don’t have to save face…
For so long, men have longed for a place to belong…
A place where they can freely sing their heart’s song…
A place where they can contribute their small part…
A place where they can share the goodness in their heart…
A place where none suffers alone, as everyone shares…
A place where it is unwelcome to put on airs…
A place where all are encouraged to be the best they can be…
A place where one can live with dignity for all eternity…

Jesus died to open the doorway for you to get into the very presence of God. Anyone entering in through Jesus will enjoy everlasting life and will spend blessed eternity with God, our Heavenly Father, His Son, our Savior, Jesus Christ, and all those who love the Lord with a love pure and true. In Christ is the place where you belong…

Psalm 84:1-4 (Amplified Bible)
1HOW LOVELY are Your tabernacles, O Lord of hosts! 2My soul yearns, yes, even pines and is homesick for the courts of the Lord; my heart and my flesh cry out and sing for joy to the living God. 3Yes, the sparrow has found a house, and the swallow a nest for herself, where she may lay her young--even Your altars, O Lord of hosts, my King and my God. 4Blessed (happy, fortunate, to be envied) are those who dwell in Your house and Your presence; they will be singing Your praises all the day long. Selah [pause, and calmly think of that]!

RevLDReedSr
I Owe Jesus
11/4/09

Bystander Beware

Bystander Beware

Dare not to look in apathy at another’s agony.
Odds are that it could be you the next time.
Summon strength; call up courage and compassion.
Order your thoughts; then take appropriate action.
Maybe you were born for this moment, this purpose.
Every second counts, there is no time to waste.
Trouble may come, but think of the greater good.
Helpers sometimes get hurt, but help anyway.
Investing in other’s need will yield blessings for you.
Not only can you make a difference, but alter a destiny.
God will reward your sacrifice and honor you for your effort.

“Do not stand idly by when your neighbor’s life is threatened. I am the Lord.” Leviticus 19:16b

I am glad Jesus did not stand idly by as mankind was doomed by sin. He did what it took. He stepped in at the cross of Calvary and paid the price. He looked beyond our fault and saw our need. Do you know Jesus as Savior and Lord?

RevLDReedSr
I Owe Jesus
10/30/09

Grace for Growth

The answers to the questions - Why on earth are you here and what on earth are you to do?

- All has been heard; the end of the matter is: Fear God [revere and worship Him, knowing that He is] and keep His commandments, for this is the whole of man [the full, original purpose of his creation, the object of God's providence, the root of character, the foundation of all happiness, the adjustment to all inharmonious circumstances and conditions under the sun] and the whole [duty] for every man. For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it is good or evil.Ecclesiastes 12:13-14 (Amplified Bible)

The first step of true obedience to God is believing on His Son Jesus Christ as your Savior and Lord.

RevLDReedSr
I Owe Jesus
10/29/09

Pondering Paradise

Pondering Paradise

Haunts eliminated.
Evil eradicated.
Acrimony annihilated.
Violence vanquished.
Envy destroyed.
Narcissism negated.
Idolatry obliterated.
Scarcity solved.
Materialism dissolved.
Yearning quenched.
Homelessness halted.
Oppression overpowered.
Malady mended.
Equity demonstrated.

High praise
Emanates from
Angelic voices.
Veritable, enriching,
Elegant, stirring,
Nonstop delight
Inspire sanctified
Singing in
Magnificent harmonies.
Youthful exuberance
Highlights activity.
Opulent worship
Magnifies the
Eternal God.

His Majesty
Enjoys His
Ardent devotees
Voluminous love
Exuded with
Never-ending joy.
Industrious citizens,
Supportive intimates,
Meshed mutually
Yielding fruitfully.
Harmony flourishes.
Opportunity abounds.
Marvelous vistas
Everyday enthrall.

Heaven is my home…
There is room there for you. Jesus is the door. If any will enter into Him they shall be saved…Do you know Jesus?

Philippians 3:20 But we are citizens of the state (commonwealth, homeland) which is in heaven, and from it also we earnestly and patiently await [the coming of] the Lord Jesus Christ (the Messiah) [as] Savior,

RevLDReedSr
I Owe Jesus
10/12/09

Love Does Not Hurt

Love Does Not Hurt

Love does not harass, hinder, nor hit.
It heals, helps, and honors.

Love does not undermine, usurp, or undervalue.
It understands, unites, and upholds.

Love does not rag, rage, or rob.
It redeems, refreshes, and respects.

Love does not terrorize, threaten, or trick.
It transforms, treasures, and trusts.

Let us teach our sons and our daughters what loves does and does not do… It will make for happier, healthier, and more hallowed relationships…

Romans 13:10 (Amp Bible) 10Love does no wrong to one's neighbor [it never hurts anybody]. Therefore love meets all the requirements and is the fulfilling of the Law.

RevLDReedSr
I Owe Jesus
10/9/09

The Godly Leader's Blessing and Burden

The Godly Leader’s Blessing and Burden

Exalt God by
Embodying Christ-likeness
Engaging people for Christ
Escorting people to Christ
Educating people on Christ
Encouraging people in Christ
Empowering people to lovingly, serve Christ
That they, too, may exalt God…

Jeremiah 3: 15. And I will give you pastors according to mine heart, which shall feed you with knowledge and understanding.

Ephesians 4:8. Wherefore he saith, When he ascended up on high, he led captivity captive, and gave gifts unto men. 11. And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; 12. For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ:
13. Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ…

1 Peter 5:1. The elders which are among you I exhort, who am also an elder, and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, and also a partaker of the glory that shall be revealed:
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;
3. Neither as being lords over God's heritage, but being ensamples to the flock.
4. And when the chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of glory that fadeth not away.

RevLDReedSr
I Owe Jesus
10/8/09

What God Says I Am.

What God Says I Am.

Satan tempts me to believe I am of no worth.
But, God says through Christ I am Beloved.

Satan coaxes me to believe I am loathed by all.
But, God says through Christ I am Loved.

Satan manipulates me to believe I am a total reject,
But, God says through Christ I am Elect.

Satan entices me to believe I am utterly unclean.
But, God says through Christ I am Sanctified.

Satan lures me to believe I can never be satisfied.
But, God says through Christ I am Satiated.

Satan baits me to believe my life is in total darkness.
But, God says through Christ I am Enlightened.

Satan rags me to believe that my sin has me detained with him.
But, God says through Christ I am eternally Delivered from my sin, Satan, and his schemes.

Ephesians 1:3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ…

RevLDReedSr
I Owe Jesus
9/30/09

Why We Cannot All Get Along?

Why We Cannot All Get Along?

Pettiness
Rivalry
Ignorance
Dread
Envy

Pompousness
Resentment
Insincerity
Disregard
Enmity

Prejudice
Ruthlessness
Injustice
Double-crossing
Evilness

Proud hearts, proud minds, and proud mouths stir up much trouble...

Proverbs 13:10. Only by pride cometh contention…

Proverbs 21:4 (NLT) Haughty eyes, a proud heart, and evil actions are all sin.

RevLDReedSr
I Owe Jesus
9/29/09

A Love for All Seasons

A Love for All Seasons

My darling,
May our love endure through all seasons.

May our love sprout and bloom
As the lovely spring flowers and trees
May we buzz about together through life
Like the industrious, bumble bees
May we refresh one another
With showers of kisses that please

May our love shine bright
As the summer sun on high
May our love burn fervently
Causing our bond further to solidify
I pray we will take the time to frolic
Merrymaking under the summer sky

May our love be as vibrant
As the plethora of paints of fall
May our love be as pleasurable
As vivid countryside sights that enthrall
Though, the autumn days shorten
May our love be ablaze in the early nightfall

As the winter temps turn to cold
For love, let us hold each other especially near
As the cool holidays kindles warm hearts
May the savor of the times stir us to love more dear
Winter is each calendar’s ending season
Let us prepare for a new genesis of love in the New Year.

Song of Solomon 2:10-13 (New International Version)
My lover spoke and said to me, "Arise, my darling, my beautiful one, and come with me. See! The winter is past; the rains are over and gone. Flowers appear on the earth; the season of singing has come, the cooing of doves is heard in our land. The fig tree forms its early fruit; the blossoming vines spread their fragrance.
Arise, come, my darling; my beautiful one, come with me."

RevLDReedSr
I Owe Jesus
9/21/09

Radiate

Radiate

Rouse your soul’s compassion
Acknowledge the poor’s plight
Delve into relevant knowledge
Illuminate your heart’s vision
Advocate justice for all
Trail blaze meaningful initiatives
Empower community exalting God

1. To emit (light, for example) in or as if in rays. 2. To send or spread out from or as if from a center 3. To irradiate or illuminate (an object). 4. To manifest in a glowing manner 5. Ecology To spread into new habitats and thereby diverge or diversify.

Matthew 5:16 (Amplified Bible)
Let your light so shine before men that they may see your moral excellence and your praiseworthy, noble, and good deeds and recognize and honor and praise and glorify your Father Who is in heaven.

RevLDReedSr
I Owe Jesus
9/21/09

What Does Your Countenance Communicate?

What Does Your Countenance Communicate?

A Smile

Satisfied, secure with Christ Jesus
Maturing by grace and surrender
In-sync with the Spirit’s leading
Leaning on His mercy and might
Executing His purpose and plans

Or

A Frown

Faltering in faith and duty
Robbed of joy and peace
Opposed to God’s truth
Warped by worldliness
Negligent in loving God

Psalm 32:10-11 (New Living Translation)
10 Many sorrows come to the wicked,
but unfailing love surrounds those who trust the Lord.
11 So rejoice in the Lord and be glad, all you who obey him!
Shout for joy, all you whose hearts are pure!

RevLDReedSr
I Owe Jesus
9/3/09

I am a part of all that I have met.

I am a part of all that I have met.

As we journey through the time that is our life,
We leave bits of ourselves with those we meet.
Some pieces may be bitter and others sweet,
An oft-glad glance or rare glare sharp as a knife.
A vigorous vent due to a wrong painfully endured.
A blessed well-paced, well-placed word spoken,
Affects others-builds up or leaves them broken.
Let us grow in grace showing we have matured.
Let us love and be merciful as we walk together.
Meanness can mangle bonds between brothers.
Let us be mindful of the ways, we affect others,
It is the will of Almighty God, our common tether.
Christ Jesus offered the world a counterexample.
His words were powerful, moving, and gracious.
His acts bared a heart loving and nobly tenacious.
All hearts touched by Him praise His holy example!

Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven. Matthew 5:16

Inspired from the quote “I am a part of all that I have met.”
By Lord Alfred Tennyson (1809-1892)

RevLDReedSr
I Owe Jesus
7/31/09

In All Seasons and Circumstances

In All Seasons and Circumstances

In all seasons and circumstances,
My Love, I vow my love to you.

With devotion and resolve,
I shall love you.

In ill health and in wellbeing,
I shall love you.

In delight and in discontent,
I shall love you.

In prosperity and in poverty,
I shall love you.

In keeping my heart for you alone,
I shall love you.

When we are both old and gray,
I shall love you.

When I am down to my last breath,
I shall love you.

As the Lord has loved me,
I shall love you.

For the Lord loves His own
In all seasons and circumstances.

Even at death on Calvary’s cross, the Lord Jesus’ actions whisper sweetly to our hearts, “Behold how I have loved you!” May we be true to our commitments, following His example.

Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself up for it… Ephesians 5:25

RevLDReedSr
I Owe Jesus
7/31/09

What is Fidelity?

What is Fidelity?

Faith
Inspired
Devotion
Exhibiting
Loving
Integrity
Towards
Your spouse…

Fidelity

Malachi 2:15-16 (New Living Translation)
15 Didn’t the Lord make you one with your wife? In body and spirit you are his. And what does he want? Godly children from your union. So guard your heart; remain loyal to the wife of your youth. 16 “For I hate divorce!” says the Lord, the God of Israel. “To divorce your wife is to overwhelm her with cruelty,” says the Lord of Heaven’s Armies. “So guard your heart; do not be unfaithful to your wife.”

RevLDReedSr
I Owe Jesus
7/16/09

Pray for Me

Pray for Me

I have a request of you,
A rather simple thing to do.
Pray for me.

There is sway when we pray.
Walls move out of the way.
Pray for me.

Do not take my plea as doubt.
I just desire your extra clout.
Pray for me.

Prayer empowers victory,
When two touch and agree.
Pray for me.

Praying one for another is good,
The bible teaches we should.
Pray for me.

When we ask for others in prayer,
It expresses by love that we care.
Pray for me.

Pray that I would know and do God’s will
Despite the trials, I would cleave to Him, still.
Pray for me.

And, when the Spirit brings you to my heart,
I will appeal to the Father on your part.
I will pray for you.

James 5:16b …Pray one for another…

RevLDReedSr
I Owe Jesus
7/13/09

When the Glory Departs

When the Glory Departs

When the glory departs,
It breaks men’s hearts.
When the glory disappears,
It leaves a trail of tears.
When the glory goes away,
Misery mars each day.
When the glory flees,
The stout sag to their knees.
When the glory expires,
It extinguishes desires.
When the glory ends,
It reveals false friends.
When the glory runs its course,
The famed fold in remorse.
When the glory is subsiding,
The outgoing go into hiding.
When the glory is missing,
Lovers cease kissing.
When the glory is gone,
Man suffers within, without alone.
When the glory is in lack,
Some do anything to get it back.
When the glory is no more,
Man laments, longs for where he was before.

Earthly glory is momentary and the persons, groups, or nations who persist in seeking it eventually will discover its fleeting nature and the barrenness and brokenness it leaves behind. In God is glory that neither fades, faints, nor comes to a finish. Let us cease to chase the jaded, fading glory of this temporary life but rather the eternal glory graciously granted by the Almighty God to all who take refuge in His Son, Jesus Christ- The King of Glory.

Psalms 62:5-7 My soul, wait thou only upon God; for my expectation is from him. He only is my rock and my salvation: he is my defence; I shall not be moved. In God is my salvation and my glory: the rock of my strength, and my refuge, is in God. Trust in him at all times; ye people, pour out your heart before him: God is a refuge for us. Selah.

RevLDReedSr
I Owe Jesus
7/9/09

What Love Does…

What Love Does…

Waits
Habilitates
Ascends
Transcends
Ensues
Values
Evolves
Resolves
Invigorates
Translates
Tends
Amends
Knits
Emits
Submits

Love does whatever it takes.

1 John 3:16 (Amplified Bible) By this we come to know (progressively to recognize, to perceive, to understand) the [essential] love: that He laid down His [own] life for us; and we ought to lay [our] lives down for [those who are our] brothers [in Him].

1 Corinthians 13:7-8a (Amplified Bible) 7Love bears up under anything and everything that comes, is ever ready to believe the best of every person, its hopes are fadeless under all circumstances, and it endures everything [without weakening]. 8Love never fails [never fades out or becomes obsolete or comes to an end].

RevLDReedSr
I Owe Jesus
7/8/09

Stripped

Stripped

Sidetracked by self ambition
Turned aside from godliness
Rebellious toward truth
Insatiable in appetite
Proud in prominence
Promiscuous in relationships
Egregious in fabrications
Disciplined by the Almighty

Stripped

Jeremiah 13:25-27 NLT
25 This is your allotment, the portion I have assigned to you,” says the Lord, “for you have forgotten me, putting your trust in false gods. 26 I myself will strip you and expose you to shame. 27 I have seen your adultery and lust, and your disgusting idol worship out in the fields and on the hills. What sorrow awaits you, Jerusalem! How long before you are pure?”

Have you been stripped? Being stripped makes way for cleansing. “But if we confess our sins to Him, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all wickedness.” (1 John 1:9 NLT)

RevLDReedSr
I owe Jesus
7/2/09

I Am an Overcomer II

I Am an Overcomer II

I depend solely on God,
Affirmed by His refining rod,
Managed by His Spirit’s prod.
Adversity stalks my every way,
Necessitating earnest prayer each day.
Obstacles be wary; watch out.
Victory, I boldly speak out.
Energized by my Lord’s assistance,
Ready, discerning armed with persistence.
Challenges call for willing contenders.
Obstructions put off mere pretenders.
My Jesus greatly champions me,
Empowering me to sweet victory,
Rejoicing gloriously over every difficulty.

I Am an Overcomer

1 John 5:4-5 (Amplified Bible)
For whatever is born of God is victorious over the world; and this is the victory that conquers the world, even our faith. Who is it that is victorious over [that conquers] the world but he who believes that Jesus is the Son of God [who adheres to, trusts in, and relies on that fact]?

RevLDReedSr
I Owe Jesus
6/25/09

I Am an Overcomer

I Am an Overcomer

I depend on God,
Affirmed by His rod,
Managed by His prod.
Adversity stalks my way,
Necessitating prayer each day.
Obstacles beware; watch out.
Victory, I speak out.
Energized by God’s assistance,
Ready, armed with persistence.
Challenges call for contenders.
Off-putting trials deter pretenders.
My Jesus champions me,
Empowering me to victory,
Rejoicing over every difficulty.

I Am an Overcomer

1 John 5:4-5 (Amplified Bible)
For whatever is born of God is victorious over the world; and this is the victory that conquers the world, even our faith. Who is it that is victorious over [that conquers] the world but he who believes that Jesus is the Son of God [who adheres to, trusts in, and relies on that fact]?

RevLDReedSr
I Owe Jesus
6/25/09

The Road Ahead

The Road Ahead

Prepare your heart.
Ask God’s guidance.
Verify your position.
Evaluate the obstacles.
Develop worthy goals.
Write your vision.
Invest in prospects
That promote growth.
Hoist your view.
Optimists dream big.
Pessimists think small.
Profitable pursuits most
Often challenge all.
Risks dare men
To strive forward.
Undeterred, unleash potential.
Notwithstanding the hurdles,
Imagine the possibilities,
Trusting in God,
You spring ahead.

The road ahead is paved with opportunity despite all obstacles for those whose ways are marked by persevering obedient faith in the Lord.

(Psalm 18:29-33, 36) - 29 In your strength I can crush an army; with my God I can scale any wall. 30 God’s way is perfect. All the Lord’s promises prove true. He is a shield for all who look to him for protection. 31 For who is God except the Lord? Who but our God is a solid rock? 32 God arms me with strength, and he makes my way perfect. 33 He makes me as surefooted as a deer, enabling me to stand on mountain heights. 36 You have made a wide path for my feet to keep them from slipping.

RevLDReedSr - (LDReedJr – photo)
We Owe Jesus
6/19/09

Use Your Time Wisely.

Use Your Time Wisely.

Make time to share.
Take time to prepare.
Awaken time to care.

Time wisely spent will payoff.
Time misspent has no tradeoff.
Time is too precious to be killed-off.

Right now time is running out.
Now is not the time for self-doubt.
Now is the time to act, to go all-out.

Because time is of the essence, dare not to regress.
There is no time like the present to do more, not less.
The time is ripe for projects that produce progress.

Comprehend that because of the times you will be hated.
Consider that in these times your efforts may seem negated.
Call to mind that as you suffer, in time, you shall be celebrated.

The end of times is very seriously nigh.

It is a matter of time before Jesus returns from on high.

When He audits your time management, how shall you reply?

That you acted in love to give hope to those whose hope was dim?
That you took time out to tell sinners that real refuge is only in Him?
That time heals all wounds but sin, which is curable only by trusting in Him?

Use your time to show and tell who Jesus is to you, both Lord and Savior…
By the power of God, one day at a time be tenacious at righteous
living, be informed that you may gain knowledge to make smart choices and
that you may inform others, mobilize with others to do good works to improve
the lives of mankind, and show empathy towards all.

2 Corinthians 6:1-10 (The Message)
Companions as we are in this work with you, we beg you, please don't squander one bit of this marvelous life God has given us. God reminds us, I heard your call in the nick of time; The day you needed me, I was there to help. Well, now is the right time to listen, the day to be helped. Don't put it off; don't frustrate God's work by showing up late, throwing a question mark over everything we're doing. Our work as God's servants gets validated—or not—in the details. People are watching us as we stay at our post, alertly, unswervingly . . . in hard times, tough times, bad times; when we're beaten up, jailed, and mobbed; working hard, working late, working without eating; with pure heart, clear head, steady hand; in gentleness, holiness, and honest love; when we're telling the truth, and when God's showing his power; when we're doing our best setting things right; when we're praised, and when we're blamed; slandered, and honored; true to our word, though distrusted; ignored by the world, but recognized by God; terrifically alive, though rumored to be dead; beaten within an inch of our lives, but refusing to die; immersed in tears, yet always filled with deep joy; living on handouts, yet enriching many; having nothing, having it all.

RevLDReedSr
I Owe Jesus
6/15/2009

I Love You

To My Darling WIfe

I Love You

I am intentionally
Learning each day
Of how I can better
Voice my feelings
Explicitly so that
You would know
Our hearts are one,
United ever more.

Happy Anniversary

I thank my God upon every remembrance of you… Philippians 1:3

Larry, learning to love…
P.S. I owe Jesus for dying for me
And sending you to me to be my wife…

RevLDReedSr
I Owe Jesus
6/8/2009

A Sight for Sore Eyes

A Sight for Sore Eyes

Lord Jesus,
We are burdened to the point, we cry,
For temptations and trials abound and intensify.
Your beloved look with longing for You to appear.
Though we suffer, yet we are striving to persevere,
To see You, the blessed sight for our sore eyes.

We search Your word to prepare for You to descend.
We toil to carry it out for glory with You, we may ascend.
Your word is truth that those who love You hold dear.
For, You promised to come and receive us from here.
Your word we cite with hope to relieve our sore eyes.

At Your first appearing, men gazed upon You with awe.
Those who drew nigh You, sorrowed for You had to withdraw.
You had to leave and go back to the Father; it was His will.
But, You sent Your Spirit to dwell with Your own, still.
Your Spirit, on site, with us, enlivens our sore eyes.

To grieving mothers shedding torrents of tears,
To vulnerable humanity tormented by their fears,
To the hungry with, sorrowfully, nothing to eat,
To the homeless, haphazardly, living on the street,
Sighted moments of Your mercy in us has eased sore eyes.

The elderly who have been ravaged by age
Yearn in hope to the march across heaven’s stage.
Those who have been beat up and beat down,
Desire that place where all shall wear a crown,
For we have heard heaven is a lovely site for sore eyes.

You have charged us to preach the Gospel to all creatures,
To make known Your saving grace and its amazing features.
You, for love, hung, bled, and died that we might live.
Help us proclaim the Good News with all we have to give,
So, sinners would, by You, gain new sight for their sore eyes.

One day You shall illumine all the world’s skies,
Making Yourself visible at once to every nation’s eyes.
Come, Lord, we welcome You from our heart,
Desiring the day that from You we will never part.
For at Your sight, we will never again experience sore eyes.

Jesus Christ, a welcome visitor is soon to come.
Are the eyes of your soul prepared to see Him?

Titus 2:11-14 (New Living Translation)
For the grace of God has been revealed, bringing salvation to all people. And we are instructed to turn from godless living and sinful pleasures. We should live in this evil world with wisdom, righteousness, and devotion to God, while we look forward with hope to that wonderful day when the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, will be revealed. He gave his life to free us from every kind of sin, to cleanse us, and to make us his very own people, totally committed to doing good deeds.

RevLDReedSr
I Owe Jesus
5/27/2009

Thank You, Teacher

Thank You, Teacher

Thank you, Teacher for your time spent educating my child this year
And for your help in shaping my child’s life and academic career
Thank you for augmenting my child’s potential for success
And for nurturing my child for intellectual and personal progress
Thank you for the kindness in the capriciousness of my child’s adolescence
And for yielding your life to add value to my child’s very essence
Thank you for your open-heart poured into our children to boost what they know
Your profession undergirds our nation and helps our communities to grow

Good teachers touch and transform lives and are the undergirding of a community yielding their time to help augment and nurture children with kindness because of their open-heart for educating and building the character of our precious and prized little blessings.

To all teachers:

May the Lord bless you and protect you. May the Lord smile on you and be gracious to you. May the Lord show you his favor and give you his peace. Numbers 6:24-26 (New Living Translation)

RevLDReedSr
I Owe Jesus
5/21/2009

To The Woman of My Desire

To The Woman of My Desire

The way you love me,
Makes me desire you.
The way you care for our family,
Makes me desire you.
The pleasantness of your embrace,
Makes me desire you.
The pureness of your feminine grace,
Makes me desire you.
The way Christ is growing within you,
Makes me desire you.
Your resilience in all you have been through,
Makes me desire you.
The way you soothe me when I feel dismayed,
Makes me desire you.
The way your mercy has endured my immaturity, and with me you stayed,
Makes me desire you.

When I stop to consider that God, who is infinitely holy, compassionate, wise, and understanding, thought upon what was best for you and I, and how that He brought us into the knowledge of one another, and then blessed and gave us to each other to forever love, nurture, and grow old together,
These thoughts make me pause to praise, thank Him, and then desire you, even more.

To my Wife…
My life companion and the mother of my children…
With you, I am satisfied and secure in love…
Happy Mother’s Day
From him, who is, yet, God’s work in progress…
Your, loving Husband

A capable, intelligent, and virtuous woman--who is he who can find her? She is far more precious than jewels and her value is far above rubies or pearls. The heart of her husband trusts in her confidently and relies on and believes in her securely, so that he has no lack of [honest] gain or need of [dishonest] spoil. She comforts, encourages, and does him only good as long as there is life within her. Proverbs 31:10-12 (Amp Bible)

Let your fountain [of human life] be blessed [with the rewards of fidelity], and rejoice in the wife of your youth. Let her be as the loving hind and pleasant doe [tender, gentle, attractive]--let her bosom satisfy you at all times, and always be transported with delight in her love. Proverbs 5:18-19 (Amp Bible)

House and riches are the inheritance from fathers, but a wise, understanding, and prudent wife is from the Lord. Proverbs 19:14 (Amp Bible)

He who finds a [true] wife finds a good thing and obtains favor from the Lord. Proverbs 18:22 (Amp Bible)

I Owe Jesus
RevLDReedSr
5/8/09

The God of Equal Access I

The God of Equal Access I

The Lord our God is a God of equal access.
He accepts whosoever, His name, will confess.

In the beginning, God made both the male and female.
In the end, He shall judge both by His word, His just scale.

Man is not superior and woman is in no way second-rate.
God gave each a harmonizing role in which to operate.

With holy intent, He made both, designating form and function, too.
Let us not be deluded by wandering astray with the worldly view.

A man can get no closer to God than any woman can.
Both are essential in the achievement of God’s plan.

Whether male or female, God righteously has no favorite.
His love is for both, alike, so let both sexes savor it.

Instead of us being in unwise, ungodly competition,
Let us instead learn and value each other’s God-given disposition.

For, the Lord our God is a God of equal access.
Whoever walks uprightly calling on Him, He promised to bless.

Romans 10:9-13 (Amplified Bible)
9Because if you acknowledge and confess with your lips that Jesus is Lord and in your heart believe (adhere to, trust in, and rely on the truth) that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. 10For with the heart a person believes (adheres to, trusts in, and relies on Christ) and so is justified (declared righteous, acceptable to God), and with the mouth he confesses (declares openly and speaks out freely his faith) and confirms [his] salvation. 11The Scripture says, No man who believes in Him [who adheres to, relies on, and trusts in Him] will [ever] be put to shame or be disappointed. 12[No one] for there is no distinction between Jew and Greek. The same Lord is Lord over all [of us] and He generously bestows His riches upon all who call upon Him [in faith]. 13For everyone who calls upon the name of the Lord [invoking Him as Lord] will be saved.

I Owe Jesus
4/24/2009
RevLDReedSr

The God of Equal Access II

The God of Equal Access II

The Lord our God is a God of equal access.
The Father welcomes one and all who, to His will, acquiesce.

It does not matter the color of your skin, shades from black to white.
God embraces each who turns from sin’s darkness to His word’s light.

It matters not your title, your age, your net worth or physical health
The Lord’s plan, for His, is in every way, eternally inexhaustible wealth.

Come without delay, make haste, man, woman, girl or boy.
The Spirit of the Lord longs to fill your heart with everlasting joy.

Come, you misguided, misshapen, mistreated, and misunderstood.
Come and be confirmed and conformed for heavenly sainthood.

Come to Jesus as you are, but be prepared for transformation.
All who truly trust His timeless truth, He converts into a new creation.

Come clinging to Jesus confessing faith in His saving grace alone.
He hung, bled, and died for the sin of all humanity, for our sin, He did atone.

For, the Lord our God is a God of equal access.
Whoever believes on Jesus, He saves forever from sin’s duress.

Romans 10:9-13 (Amplified Bible)
9Because if you acknowledge and confess with your lips that Jesus is Lord and in your heart believe (adhere to, trust in, and rely on the truth) that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. 10For with the heart a person believes (adheres to, trusts in, and relies on Christ) and so is justified (declared righteous, acceptable to God), and with the mouth he confesses (declares openly and speaks out freely his faith) and confirms [his] salvation. 11The Scripture says, No man who believes in Him [who adheres to, relies on, and trusts in Him] will [ever] be put to shame or be disappointed. 12[No one] for there is no distinction between Jew and Greek. The same Lord is Lord over all [of us] and He generously bestows His riches upon all who call upon Him [in faith]. 13For everyone who calls upon the name of the Lord [invoking Him as Lord] will be saved.

I Owe Jesus
4/24/2009
RevLDReedSr

Do You Truly Love Me?

Do You Truly Love Me?

Do you love Me more than you do keeping good health?
Do you love Me more than you do acquiring wealth?
Do you love Me more than your favorite meal?
Do you love Me more than the hobby of your highest thrill?
Do you love Me more than you love your dearest kin?
Do you love Me enough to confess and turn from all your sin?
Do you love Me in sufficient amount to love and serve mankind?
Do you love Me as necessary to love those who are unkind?

Do you truly love Me?

Do you love Me adequately to suffer for My cause?
Do you love Me amply to obey Me without pause?
Do you love Me deeply so as to yield to My Spirit?
Do you love Me fully so as to tell My word to all who will hear it?
Will you love Me as is righteous to walk the course for you I set?
Will you love Me ever even if it seems that trials are all you get?
Do you love Me plenteously to see things from My perspective?
Do you love Me sufficiently to carry out My objective?

Do you truly love Me?

Do you love Me in the quantity required to speak out in My defense?
Will you love Me ever with a love that is settled and intense?
Will you love Me with your all-your body, heart, mind, and soul?
Will you love Me through your pain and believe I am still in control?
Do you love Me as much as is vital to trust me with your destiny?
Do you love Me as much as is key to believe your hereafter will be in ecstasy?
Will you love Me always more than you love yourself?
Will you strive to love Me as I have loved you, even unto death?

John 21:15-17 (New Living Translation)
15 After breakfast Jesus asked Simon Peter, “Simon son of John, do you love me more than these?” “Yes, Lord,” Peter replied, “you know I love you.” “Then feed my lambs,” Jesus told him. 16 Jesus repeated the question: “Simon son of John, do you love me?” “Yes, Lord,” Peter said, “you know I love you.” “Then take care of my sheep,” Jesus said. 17 A third time he asked him, “Simon son of John, do you love me?”
Peter was hurt that Jesus asked the question a third time. He said, “Lord, you know everything. You know that I love you.” Jesus said, “Then feed my sheep.”


I Owe Jesus
4/16/2009
RevLDReedSr

Passion, Purpose, and Promise

Passion, Purpose, and Promise

Passion met purpose by promise at the cross
God promised His only Son to pay sin’s cost
A profound love, like no other, Jesus did reveal
His handiwork was signified by power and zeal
He lived a sinless life, honorable in every way
His resolution was to work while it was, yet day
To fulfill all righteousness was His sacred aim
His living and dying proved prophetic claim
He delighted to do His Heavenly Father’s will
Though, piercing, pervasive agony, He would feel
Chastised by scourging until His visage was marred
Fueled by love of His Father and our souls, sin-scarred
Our souls were held down, estranged from God, by sin
By design, Jesus was lifted to draw all humanity in
In atonement for our sin debt, He gave His all
All who believe in Him shall rise to Him at His call
May we survey with wonder the cross and the empty tomb
And await His return to take us up to our heavenly room
Until then, let all who He has lifted shoulder their cross
By fervent intent, avow the Gospel pledge to those, yet lost

John 2:17 (Amp) And His disciples remembered that it is written
[in the Holy Scriptures], Zeal (the fervor of love) for Your house will eat
Me up. [I will be consumed with jealousy for the honor of Your house.]

John 2:17 (NLT) Then his disciples remembered this prophecy from the
Scriptures: “Passion for God’s house will consume me.”

RevLDReedSr
I Owe Jesus
3/31/09

Desire

Desire

When shall I appear on high before you?
How much longer must I tarry down here?
What else do I have to learn or go through
Before my eyes, into Your great glory, peer?

So many things are a distraction,
Many things vie for my view.
But, You are my main attraction.
You are the One I shall ever pursue.

I confess, I get weak and I get weary,
But, Your strength helps me hold on.
The promises of Your Word makes me cheery
They empower me mightily to press on.

Help me holdout in this cruel world, so cold.
To complete the ministry that You assigned.
As I live, I submit myself to Your Spirit to mold.
Help me to grow and be holily inclined.

As my steps get shorter and my eyes dim,
My gait and my gaze shall still be fixed to You.
Though the days be dark and the times grim,
Tribulation will not our relationship, undo.

What a day it shall be when I, your face, behold.
No more sin, shame, or pain to shackle me,
Nothing but love, joys, and, peace, manifold.
My want, my wish fulfilled, me with You for all eternity…

Whom have I in heaven but You? I desire You more than anything on earth. My health may fail, and my spirit may grow weak, but God remains the strength of my heart; He is mine forever. Psalm 73:25-26

RevLDReedSr
I Owe Jesus
3/16/09

Falling Away

Falling Away
Exodus Erroneous

There are people that have forgotten God
Whose orchestrated religion is only a façade
The bible is to them interesting information
They deny its power for life transformation
Some do religious pursuits with great promotion
Yet, live lives null and void of Godly devotion
A few use ruse en route to self-aggrandizement
They talk God but self is the real advertisement
Many love to mingle amongst the church crowd
But, their grasp of God is veiled by sin’s shroud
Others exhibit a false regard toward things divine
As they snub God’s call to walk within His design
There are those who have walked away abruptly
Embattled, embittered, they now see God corruptly
Some now fight against God with total vehemence
They protest precepts that proves God’s preeminence
Which way are you leaning concerning this matter?
As you, watch others, from God, beginning to scatter
Those who reject God, truly have nowhere to flee
Every tongue will confess Jesus is Lord on bended knee
I pray you would cling to Jesus; He died to save you
Judgment is nigh, without Him, you will not pass through
Believe on Him in your heart; Him, with your mouth, confess
Trust Jesus now, why risk an eternity in hell to second-guess?

1 Timothy 4:1 (Amplified Bible)
BUT THE [Holy] Spirit distinctly and expressly declares that in latter times some will turn away from the faith, giving attention to deluding and seducing spirits and doctrines that demons teach…

Psalm 9:17 (Amplified Bible)
17The wicked shall be turned back [headlong into premature death] into Sheol (the place of the departed spirits of the wicked), even all the nations that forget or are forgetful of God.

RevLDReedSr
I Owe Jesus
3/11/09

What Manner of Man is This!

What Manner of Man is This!

What manner of man is this
That men passionately pursue?
What manner of man is this
That men follow though suffering will ensue?

What manner of man is this
That is not troubled by any threat?
What manner of man is this
The very essence of peace without fret?

What manner of man is this
Who responds to a righteous plea?
What manner of man is this
That tames life’s raging wind and sea?

What manner of man is this
Whose word is backed with power?
What manner of man is this
Who shines even in the darkest hour?

What manner of man is this
Who can free us from all evil ensnares?
What manner of man is this
Who gladly proves how much He cares?

What manner of man is this
Who loves us despite our utter frailty?
What manner of man is this
Beckoning all of life’s storm-wearied, “Come unto Me…”

What manner of man is this
Whose person and power leave men in awe?
What manner of man is this,
Jesus, God and man, died due to a love He would not withdraw?

And when He was entered into a ship, His disciples followed Him. And, behold, there arose a great tempest in the sea, insomuch that the ship was covered with the waves: but He was asleep. And His disciples came to Him, and awoke Him, saying, Lord, save us: we perish. And He saith unto them, Why are ye fearful, O ye of little faith? Then He arose, and rebuked the winds and the sea; and there was a great calm. But the men marvelled, saying, What manner of man is this, that even the winds and the sea obey Him! Matthew 8:23-27

RevLDReedSr
I Owe Jesus
3/5/09

Don’t Cheat to Win

Don’t Cheat to Win

Don’t cheat to win
For cheating is sin
To cheat is to lie
An evil ploy to get by
To cheat is to steal
For status that isn’t real
Cheating sullies your name
Brings great men to shame
Cheating damages trust
Intensifies societal distrust
Don’t cheat to win
For it will come up again
If you cheat to succeed
In time, you’ll mourn your misdeed
Your essence will be pained
Payback will exceed all you gained
Don’t cheat to excel
Others may follow your foul trail
If you cheat to get renown
You will bring loved ones down
Don’t cheat to get ahead
Live by integrity instead
For all cheaters will eventually be found out
The Light of judgment will bring our dark deeds out

Bread of deceit is sweet to a man;
but afterwards his mouth shall be filled with gravel.
Prov 20:17 (KJV)

Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God,

and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man.

For God shall bring every work into judgment,

with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil.

Ecclesiastes 12:13-14 (KJV)

RevLDReedSr
I Owe Jesus
2/9/09

The Hapless Hypocrite’s Halting

Ezekiel 14 (Amplified Bible)
1THEN CAME certain of the elders of Israel to me and sat before me.
2And the word of the Lord came to me:
3Son of man, these men have set up their idols in their hearts and put the stumbling block of their iniquity and guilt before their faces; should I permit Myself to be inquired of at all by them?
4Therefore speak to them and say to them, Thus says the Lord God: Every man of the house of Israel who takes his idols [of self-will and unsubmissiveness] into his heart and puts the stumbling block of his iniquity [idols of silver and gold] before his face, and yet comes to the prophet [to inquire of him], I the Lord will answer him, answer him according to the multitude of his idols,
5That I may lay hold of the house of Israel in the thoughts of their own mind and heart, because they are all estranged from Me through their idols.
6Therefore say to the house of Israel, Thus says the Lord God: Repent and turn away from your idols, and turn away your faces from all your abominations.
7For anyone of the house of Israel or of the strangers who sojourn in Israel who separates himself from Me, taking his idols into his heart and putting the stumbling block of his iniquity and guilt before his face, and [yet] comes to the prophet to inquire for himself of Me, I the Lord will answer him Myself!
8And I will set My face against that [false worshiper] and will make him a sign and a byword, and I will cut him off from the midst of My people; and you shall know (understand and realize) that I am the Lord.
9[The prophet has not been granted permission to give an answer to the hypocritical inquirer] but if the prophet does give the man the answer he desires [thus allowing himself to be a party to the inquirer's sin], I the Lord will see to it that the prophet is deceived in his answer, and I will stretch out My hand against him and will destroy him from the midst of My people Israel.
10And they both shall bear the punishment of their iniquity: the iniquity of the [presumptuous] prophet shall be the same as the iniquity of the [hypocritical] inquirer,
11That the house of Israel may go no more astray from Me, neither defile themselves any more with all their transgressions, but that they may be My people, and I may be their God, says the Lord God.

The Crucible II

The Crucible II

Lord, it is difficult within this crucible
But, surely our actions are inexcusable
We show by deeds, our ignorance of You
Our conduct proves our worship is untrue
We pine away in pursuit of ruinous excess
Wear ourselves out for the façade of success
Due to unreasonableness, love waxes cold
Love, the great command, given of old
We feign affection to those near to us
Cheat those we claim to be dear to us
We twist the truth to cover our tracks
In attempt to justify unjustifiable acts
We insult, degrade each other’s name
To exalt ourselves is our wayward aim
We are baffled, broken, and led astray
By shunning Your word, we lost our way
The sad part is our lack of spiritual sight
Doing wrong so long, we feel it’s right
In love, You correct those You care for
Your own, You promised to be there for
In penitent faith they cling to You dearly
Calling on others to trust in You sincerely
In the crucible, our character, You refine
You teach us to say “Your will, not mine”
Your just discipline displays Your insight
These trials, these tears yield to eternal delight

3 “My people bend their tongues like bows to shoot lies. They refuse to stand up for the truth. And they only go from bad to worse! They care nothing for me,” says the LORD.
4 “Beware of your neighbor! Beware of your brother! They all take advantage of one another and spread their slanderous lies. 5 They all fool and defraud each other; no one tells the truth. With practiced tongues they tell lies; they wear themselves out with all their sinning. 6 They pile lie upon lie and utterly refuse to come to me,” says the LORD.
7 Therefore, the LORD Almighty says, “See, I will melt them in a crucible and test them like metal. What else can I do with them? 8 For their tongues aim lies like poisoned arrows. They promise peace to their neighbors while planning to kill them. 9 Should I not punish them for this?” asks the LORD. “Should I not avenge myself against a nation such as this?” Jeremiah 9:3-9 NLT

It is unwise to repel the living God by ignoring His voice, His word calling us to repent for our sinfulness. For our rebellion, Jesus endured the crucible of Calvary’s cross. He took upon Himself our sin and its disciplinary penalty, death, that our souls not be lost. True saving faith in Jesus purifies us to pass judgment’s final test, salvation from our sin. Through Him, we can be empowered to endure all things, both now and ever and be eternally blest…Have you truly invited Him into your heart?

RevLDReedSr
I Owe Jesus
1/10/09

The Crucible

The Crucible

These times try men’s souls, test men’s mettle. These times make the arrogant, unsettled; bring down high looks. These times bring out in some the inner crook. In times such as this the mighty crumble, the stately stumble. In times such as this, the wise are confounded, the cynical are intensely astounded.

These times bring into focus things that were hidden in plain sight. These times highlight man’s lack of ability to save himself-his fortune, his future, yet underscore his stubborn, rebellious will to keep trying to manufacture and master his destiny.

We now find ourselves in the crucible. A crucible is a place or set of circumstances where people or things are subjected to forces that try them and often change them. It is a severe trial or ordeal that draws out what is truly in the core of one’s being.

The crucible drives some men to display the real corruptness, deficiency of their character, often concealed from other’s view, disguised in self-possession. The crucible draws some to delve inward and a deluge of decency rises up to the benefit of others. The crucible stirs some to seek out and anoint a savior from the ranks of men, one who can alleviate anxiety, lure people together, and lead them to the desired promise land.

The crucible goads others to search for any god with power to deliver from distress only to be dominated by disempowering contrived devices and vices of man. Others descend to depend more definitively on the god of self.

The crucible, also, convinces others to seek the God of the bible.

This God of the bible is the only living and true God. He is incomparable in majesty and might. With impeccable character and judgment, He reigns.

He has helped me through the intimidating tests in the crucibles of my life. My crucibles have disciplined me. My crucibles have strengthened me. The crucibles in my life have drawn me to trust solely in His saving grace. Through my crucibles, He has demonstrated His love for me and opened my spiritual eyes to see how much I need Him, how I can’t make it without Him.

Jesus Christ, my Savior, was tested in the crucible of Calvary’s cross. He was lifted up to draw us unto Himself for He is the only tried and true Savior there is. He was humbled that we may receive honor. His body was broken that we may be whole. He who knew no sin was made to be sin for us. His blood was shed in atonement for our sin debt. He died and three days later was raised from the grave for our justification. He died that we may live forever through faith in Him.

The difficult tests of this time offer us an opportunity to look “unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God. For consider Him that endured such contradiction of sinners against Himself, lest ye be wearied and faint in your minds.” (Hebrews 12:2-3 KJV)

Let us not give in to depression or give up in despair in these traumatic times, but through determined, penitent prayer draw near to our Lord, drawing strength and deriving direction from His word and Spirit, as we under-gird each another. And, let us labor to spread the Good News that those caught in the crucible of sin may turn from their sin to Jesus, the merciful, righteous Lord who is able, willing, and mighty to save.

Larry D. Reed, Sr.
I Owe Jesus
1/9/2009