Posted by: missionventureministries | February 3, 2014

EXAMINE MY HEART AND MY MIND – Psalm 26:2

Psalm 26 vs 2

“Test me, Lord, and try me, examine my heart and my mind.” Psalm 26:2

Quiet your mind and your heart before the Lord. Ask the Holy Spirit to bring conviction as you meditate on the following, pausing after each question to permit the Holy Spirit to speak conviction to you:

1. Have we forgiven everyone? Is there any malice, spite, hatred or enmity in our hearts? Do we keep grudges; and refused to be reconciled? Are we gracious, kind, forgiving and considerate of others?

2. Do we get angry? Is there any unrest within? Do we lose our temper at times? Does wrath hold us sometimes in its grip?

3. Is there any feeling of jealousy? When another is favored instead of us, does it make us envious and uncomfortable? Do we get jealous of those who can pray, speak and do things better than we can?

4. Do we get impatient and irritated? Do little things irritate and annoy, or, are we sweet, calm and unruffled under all circumstances?

5. Are we offended easily? When people fail to notice us and pass by without speaking does it hurt? If others get the attention and we are neglected how do we feel about it?

6. Is there any pride in our hearts? Do we think a great deal of our own position and attainments?

7. Have we been dishonest? Is our business open and above reproach? Are we fair in our business dealings? Are we honest in our statements, or do we exaggerate and thus convey false impressions?

8. Have we been gossiping about people? Do we slander the character of others? Do we tell stories and are busybodies?

9. Do we criticize? Are we always finding fault and looking for the flaws in others?

10. Do we rob God? Have we stolen time that belongs to Him? Do we retain the money that belongs to Him?

11. Are we guilty of the sin of unbelief? In spite of all He has done for us do we still refuse to believe the promises of His Word?

12. Are we intercessors? Do we pray often? How much time are we spending in prayer? Or is prayer not important in our lives?

13. Are we neglecting God’s Word? How many verses do we read each day? Are we Bible students? Do we use the Scriptures to help us?

14. Are we concerned for the salvation of souls? Have we a love for the lost? Is there any compassion in our hearts for those who are perishing?

15. Have we failed to confess Christ openly? Are we ashamed of Jesus? Do we keep our mouths closed when we are surrounded by worldly people? Are we witnessing daily?

16. Are our lives filled with chitchat and frivolity? Is our conduct inappropriate? Would the world by our actions consider us on its side?

17. Have we wronged anyone and failed to make restitution? Have we made amends with those we have hurt as God has shown us?

18. Are we worried or anxious? Do we fail to trust God for our temporal and spiritual needs? Are we continually running ahead of God and not waiting on His leadership?

19. Are we guilty of lustful thoughts? Do we allow our minds to harbor impure and unholy thoughts?

Like David, every child of God should urge the Holy Spirit to “examine” deep within their hearts to see if we are abiding in the Word of God.

A born again believer needs to be honest with himself and with God! If there is any un-confessed sin your life, confess that sin to God and be forgiven under the blood of Jesus Christ!

SOURCE: (1 – 19) Pastor Oswald Smith

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Posted by: missionventureministries | January 26, 2014

THE BIBLE WARNS US OF FALSE PROPHETS IN THE LAST DAYS – 2 Peter 2:1-3

2 Peter 2

“But there were also false prophets among the people, just as there will be false teachers among you. They will secretly introduce destructive heresies, even denying the sovereign Lord who bought them—bringing swift destruction on themselves. 2 Many will follow their depraved conduct and will bring the way of truth into disrepute. 3 In their greed these teachers will exploit you with fabricated stories. Their condemnation has long been hanging over them, and their destruction has not been sleeping.” 2 Peter 2:1-3 

Peter is warning us in these verses that: 

  • They come from a “Christian” background –“as there will be false teachers among you.”
  • They deny the biblical Lord Jesus in some way – “denying the sovereign Lord who bought them”
  • They become very popular, especially with emotionally motivated people – “Many will follow their depraved conduct.”
  • They will degrade doctrines of the Bible – “and will bring the way of truth into disrepute.”
  • They will stimulate greed to attract followers – In their greed these teachers will exploit you with fabricated stories.” 

Especially in the last days, many will follow such false teachers: “For the time will come when people will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear,” (2 Timothy 4:3). Today false cults, liberal churches, occult movements, and false doctrines of every sort are proliferating rapidly all over the world, all speaking in the name of “Jesus” or “the Christ”, but never of “our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.” 

These false teachers deny the doctrine of redemption by the blood of Christ (2 Peter 2:1); they twist the Scriptures to their own beliefs: “Above all, you must understand that no prophecy of Scripture came about by the prophet’s own interpretation of things. 21 For prophecy never had its origin in the human will, but prophets, though human, spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.” (2 Peter 1:20-21) 

They speak evil or sarcastically of true Biblical doctrine as we see in (2 Peter 2:2) and also in 2 Peter 2:12: “But these people blaspheme in matters they do not understand. They are like unreasoning animals, creatures of instinct, born only to be caught and destroyed, and like animals they too will perish.” 

They covet money and prestige (2 Peter 2:3) and: “With eyes full of adultery, they never stop sinning; they seduce the unstable; they are experts in greed—an accursed brood! 15 They have left the straight way and wandered off to follow the way of Balaam son of Bezer,who loved the wages of wickedness.” (2 Peter 2:14-15) 

They are eloquent crowd-pleasers: “For they mouth empty, boastful words and, by appealing to the lustful desires of the flesh, they entice people who are just escaping from those who live in error.” (2 Peter 2:18) 

They are deceitful: “They will be paid back with harm for the harm they have done. Their idea of pleasure is to carouse in broad daylight. They are blots and blemishes, reveling in their pleasures while they feast with you.” (2 Peter 2:13) 

They are lustful and seductive, promoting carnality: “This is especially true of those who follow the corrupt desire of the flesh and despise authority. . . With eyes full of adultery, they never stop sinning; they seduce the unstable; they are experts in greed—an accursed brood!” (2 Peter 2:10, 14) 

They deny Christ’s bodily second coming: “Above all, you must understand that in the last days scoffers will come, scoffing and following their own evil desires. 4 They will say, “Where is this ‘coming’ he promised? Ever since our ancestors died, everything goes on as it has since the beginning of creation.” (2 Peter 3:3-4) 

John also warns us: “Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world.” (1 John 4:1) 

And he gives the warning to “try the spirits” because many false prophets are now here. And he states further on: “Dear children, this is the last hour; and as you have heard that the antichrist is coming, even now many antichrists have come. This is how we know it is the last hour.”  (1 John 2:18)  

Jesus told his disciples that they will perform great wonders: “For false messiahs and false prophets will appear and perform great signs and wonders to deceive, if possible, even the elect.”  (Matthew 24:24; Mark 13:22)  

We are warned to test every one of them, and when they do not abide in the doctrine of Christ, we are to reject their teaching and not have any fellowship with them. “Anyone who runs ahead and does not continue in the teaching of Christ does not have God; whoever continues in the teaching has both the Father and the Son. 10 If anyone comes to you and does not bring this teaching, do not take them into your house or welcome them. 11 Anyone who welcomes them shares in their wicked work.” (2 John 1:9-11) 

Because, they are dangerous and: “They come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves.” (Matthew 7:15) 

We need to ask the Lord for discernment, which is the ability to think clearly deciding between truth and error, right and wrong, using the Bible as the Instructor’s manual for living. This will lead us to live an uncompromising life style. Without it, Christians are at risk of being “tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of people in their deceitful scheming.” (Ephesians 4:14)

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Posted by: missionventureministries | January 20, 2014

THE MERCY OF THE LORD – Psalm 145:8

Psalm 145 vs 8 E
“The LORD is gracious, and full of compassion; slow to anger, and of great mercy.” (Psalm 145:8) 

Not one of us deserves God’s mercy, for “we have turned every one to his own way” (Isaiah 53:6), and “all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23). What we deserve is death and eternal separation from the God who made us. Nevertheless, “it is because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail” (Lamentations 3:22). “He does not treat us as our sins deserve or repay us according to our iniquities. For as high as the heavens are above the earth, so great is His love for those who fear Him” (Psalm 103:10-11). 

It is by His mercy, not our merit, that we are saved. “Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy He saved us” (Titus 3:5). “God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved” (Ephesians 2:4-5). It is “in his great mercy He has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.” (1 Peter 1:3) 

In fact, one of the very titles of God is “the Father of mercies” (2 Corinthians 1:3). Over and over the psalmist assures us that “His mercy endures for ever” (26 times in Psalm 136:1-26; also Psalm 106:1; 107:1; 118:1; and others). His mercy is not only infinite, but eternal. 

How can one possibly reject His mercy? “Or do you show contempt for the riches of His kindness, forbearance and patience, not realizing that God’s kindness is intended to lead you to repentance?” (Romans 2:4). Sadly, most do. Instead, the divine challenge is: “Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—His good, pleasing and perfect will.” (Romans 12:1-2). This should be our logical response to God’s great mercy. 

 

Source: by Henry Morris, Ph.D.

http://icr.org


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Posted by: missionventureministries | January 13, 2014

Jehovah Rapha – The Lord Who Heals – Exodus 15:26

Exodus 15 vs 26

Moses is faced with a difficult situation in the desert and instead of protesting, he prays. That is what we should also do. When we are in pain, we must pray. God answers Moses by showing him a simple piece of wood. Moses takes the wood and whips it into the water and the water immediately becomes sweet. God then initiates a test and tells them in verse 26: “If you listen carefully to the voice of the LORD your God and do what is right in his eyes, if you pay attention to his commands and keep all his decrees, I will not bring on you any of the diseases I brought on the Egyptians, for I am the LORD, who heals you.” Here we see the LORD revealed as Jehovah Rapha. In the midst of their bitterness and hurt, God reveals Himself as their Healer.

The word Rapha is used some sixty times in the Old Testament and means, “to restore, to heal, or to cure” physically, emotionally and spiritually.

Sometimes we are in need of healing in all three areas at the same time like David was in Psalm 6:2-3

Emotional: “Be merciful to me, LORD, for I am faint…”
Physical: “O LORD, heal me, for my bones are in agony…”
Spiritual: “My soul is in anguish. How long, O LORD, how long?”

God reveals Himself as Jehovah Rapha when we are in need of… 

  • Emotional Healing: The LORD heals emotional hurts and broken hearts. Psalm 147:3: “He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.” Whatever pain we are carrying around, we need to hand it to the Healer. 
  • Physical Healing: Some of us are experiencing a tough time right now as we are trying to process the pain and discouragement that comes from physical difficulties. Maybe it is personal pain or maybe we are devastated by the news about a family member or a friend. At times like this, we need to ask Jehovah Rapha to do His healing work in our lives. The Bible is filled with examples of God’s healing touch. In 2 Kings 20:5-6 we read that Hezekiah became very ill and was about to die. As a result of intense intercession, he was healed and his life was even extended. This is really an amazing story: “This is what the LORD, the God of your father David, says: I have heard your prayer and seen your tears; I will heal you…I will add fifteen years to your life.” In the Gospels we see that Jesus spent a surprising amount of time healing people.
  • Spiritual Healing: This is by far the most important of the three realms of healing. The Lord sees that we are spiritually sick and He provides healing and wholeness through the shed blood of Jesus on the cross. Our diagnosis is bad and our prognosis is terminal. Jeremiah 17:9 records the incurable condition of the human heart: “The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure. Who can understand it?” We are sinners who have been inflicted with the disease of death and destruction and we are in desperate need of a new heart.

Early in His ministry, Jesus got up in the synagogue one day and quoted from the Book of Isaiah: “He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to release the oppressed” (Luke 4:18). Once we are set free spiritually, Jesus can break every other bondage we are under, including addictions and deep-seated sin patterns. While it is certainly true that Jesus healed a lot of people physically, He is always more interested in curing our sin problem. Do you remember what Jesus said to John the Baptist when he wanted to know if He was really the Messiah? Here are the words from Matthew 11:5:“The blind receive sight, the lame walk, those who have leprosy are cured, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the good news is preached to the poor.”

The pervasiveness of sin in our souls is pictured very vividly in Isaiah 1:5-6: “Why do you persist in rebellion? Your whole head is injured, your whole heart afflicted. From the sole of your foot to the top of your head there is no soundness — only wounds and welts and open sores, not cleansed or bandaged or soothed with oil.” Our depravity is total, affecting every part of our lives. However, verse 18 provides the good news, showing the cleansing power of forgiveness: “Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red as crimson, they shall be like wool.”

At times, we need to pass the test, since trials and troubles can get us back on track. “Before I was afflicted I went astray, but now I obey your word…It was good for me to be afflicted so that I might learn your decrees.” Psalm 119:67, 71

We need to understand that not all illness is directly linked to personal sin. We can certainly say that all illness ultimately is a result of Adam and Eve’s sin, but we must be careful to not link every problem we have to some sin in our lives. This was the mistake that Job’s friends made when they kept accusing him of wrongdoing. In their minds, Job was suffering because he had somehow sinned. Let’s be careful here. Some of us blame ourselves mercilessly for our own pain. Others need to back off and stop giving their perspective on why someone else is suffering. Jesus addressed this prevalent mindset when he was asked to explain why a certain man was blind. His disciples wanted to know whether the man had sinned or his parents. Jesus answered in John 9:3: “Neither this man nor his parents sinned, but this happened so that the work of God might be displayed in his life.”

We need to remember that it is OK to consult with professionals but we need to go to the Great Physician first. While there are some people who refuse to get any help because they want to trust God alone for their healing, it’s my understanding that God often works His healing through doctors, and other trained health professionals. Remember that the bitter waters at Marah became better only when something was added to them. God could have made them sweet apart from any other means, but he chose to use the wood. Likewise God can heal with just a word from His mouth, but He uses other instruments as well.  

On the other hand, what Asa did in the Old Testament is a warning to us. When he was sick, he didn’t pray to God first but instead went right to the doctor. This is described in 2 Chronicles 16:12: “Though his disease was severe, even in his illness he did not seek help from the LORD, but only from the physicians.” Think about this; don’t bypass the Great Physician on the way to the doctor’s office.

We also need the community of faith. James 5:14-16 describes what we should do when we are sick. First of all, call for the Elders of the church and ask for prayer. Second, confess your sins to others. Third, pray for each other. These steps are only possible if you’re plugged into a community of faith. When you are hurting, you need the help of other strong faithful believers. Faith somehow unleashes the healing power of God. James 4:2 says, “You do not have, because you do not ask God.”

The Cross of Christ is the source of healing. Jehovah Rapha who heals in the Old Testament is the LORD Jesus who heals in the New. Don’t miss the significance behind the wood from a tree providing sweetness to the bitter water. All of our problems began at a tree in the Garden of Eden and our sin problem is resolved because another piece of wood was used to hold up our Sin Substitute on the cross. Isaiah 53:5 says that “the punishment that brought us peace was upon him, and by his wounds we are healed.” 1 Peter 2:24 picks up on this prophecy: “He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; by his wounds you have been healed.” Only Jesus can sweeten the bitterness of life. He is the bondage breaker as Leviticus 26:13 says: “I broke the bars of your yoke and enabled you to walk with heads held high.”

Whether you’re hurting emotionally, physically or spiritually, turn to the Lord who Heals right now. Let’s go back to Exodus 15 for a moment. After God made the sour waters sweet, He then led the Israelites to a place called Elim. We read in verse 27 that Elim had twelve springs and seventy palm trees. God led them to a place of plenty. Even if we’re not cured we can be healed by Jesus. He is both the wood and the living water as He said in John 7:37: “If anyone is thirsty, let him come to me and drink.” The only way to go from Marah to Elim is to turn to Jesus, who is our Jehovah Rapha.

DISCLAIMER MVM

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Posted by: missionventureministries | January 6, 2014

THE LORD PROVIDES ALL OF OUR NEEDS – Philippians 4:19

Philippians 4 vs 19

“And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of His glory in Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 4:19 

The Lord provides because this is His heart’s desire. By His very nature He is a provider and it gives the Lord great pleasure to provide. Just as an earthly father delights in providing for his children so does our heavenly Father. “If you then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who ask Him” (Luke 11:13). 

When we are tempted to fear, we can choose to trust our Father, and He will bless us with perfect peace. “He will keep us in perfect peace if we keep our minds fixed on Him.” (Isaiah 26:3) When we feel lonely, He provides companionship. When we suffer loss, He provides comfort. When we become proud, He disciplines us and humbles us. When we lack the necessities of life, He provides our needs. “Consider the ravens: They do not sow or reap, they have no storeroom or barn; yet God feeds them. And how much more valuable you are than birds!” (Luke 12:24).

When we struggle with lack of confidence, He gives us victories to gain back godly confidence, and therefore our trust in Him grows. He gives us strength. “If anyone serves, they should do so with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To Him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen” (1 Peter 4:11).

God’s provision may come in a manner that we are not expecting. It may be an unsolicited check in the mail. It could be the compassionate prayer of a complete stranger. It may be a material provision that miraculously comes from someone, because they felt led by the Lord to provide for our need. When this happens they are blessed and we are blessed. Paul wrote: “In everything I did, I showed you that by this kind of hard work we must help the weak, remembering the words the Lord Jesus himself said: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’ ” (Acts 20:35) Remember God is the one who gets the glory when we act according to His will.

God provides through our faithful prayers, those of our family, friends and even strangers. We need to ask according to His will and then start thanking Him for His provisions. He already has those provisions waiting for us and also for those we have prayed for. Sometimes God answers quickly and other times we have to wait. Do not compromise your convictions or give up.

Where God guides, He always provides.

A saint who experienced God’s provision on a regular basis said, “God’s work, done God’s way, will not lack God’s provision”. (Author unknown)

And then there is that beautiful song:

In His time, in His time,

He makes all things beautiful, in His time,

Lord, please show me everyday,

As You’re teaching me Your way,

That You do just what You say, in Your time. 

TO LISTEN CLICK HERE 

Remember the Lord is good and He provides so: Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer. (Romans 12:12)

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope. (Romans 15:13)

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Posted by: missionventureministries | December 30, 2013

NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTIONS – Jeremiah 29:11

New Year 2014

For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Jeremiah 29:11 

The vast majority of New Year’s resolutions, even among Christians, are in relation to physical things when they should be spiritual decisions to obey and honor the Lord.

When we make resolutions, we need to have the right motivation for starting or stopping any activity. For example, why do we decide to read the Bible every day? Is it to honor God and grow spiritually, or is it because we have heard that it is a good thing to do? Why do we want to lose weight? Is it to honor God with our body, or is it for vanity, to honor ourselves?

It is important to know that if God is the center of our New Year’s resolution, we have a great chance for success and if it is God’s will for something to be fulfilled, He will enable us to fulfill it. If our resolution is not God honoring or is not in agreement in God’s Word, we will not succeed. However if we have confidence when we approach our heavenly Father and we ask according to His will, He will hear us. (1 John 5:15)

So, what sort of New Year’s resolution should a Christian make? Here are some suggestions:

  • Ask God to show us to how to fulfill the goals He gives us.
  • Ask the Lord for wisdom in regards to what resolutions, if any, He would have us make. (James 1:5)
  • God always has a purpose for what we will experience. He has a reason for what He allows in our life, and through it we can trust Him completely. (Proverbs 1:3-5)
  • If possible we should find a godly accountability partner who will help us and encourage us.
  • Pride should stay far away from us; instead we should give God all the glory. (Psalm 37:5-6)
  • Rely in God’s strength to help us.
  • The Bible says not to worry about tomorrow for tomorrow has enough worries of its own. We need to trust in our Heavenly Father who knows everything we need, who is our God and our Provider. He is faithful and He will take care of us. (Matthew 6:25-34)
  • There is no limit to what God can do in our life; nothing is impossible with God. God opens doors that no man can shut and closes doors that no man can open. With God the possibilities are endless when we live according to His will. (Philippians 4:13)
  • We need to keep our eyes fixed on Christ and He will give us rest and peace because He is our peace and He loves us and cares for us deeply. (John 16:33)
  • We need to pray about what God has planned for us and be willing to walk by faith in obedience as we follow His leading. Remembering that His plans are always for good and not for evil, to give us a future and a hope. (Jeremiah 29:11-13)
  • We need to start out the New Year with a fresh point of view to new experiences, memories, and blessings, having an open mind and heart to wherever the Lord will take us, with full assurance and confidence that He is with us. (Matthew 28:19-20) 
  • We should not become discouraged with occasional failures; instead, allow them to motivate us further.
  • We need to be willing to let go and let God work in and through us as we continue to grow in our relationship with Him. Pray for God to mold us and make us pliable in the Potter’s hand.
  • With new experiences and lessons come new wisdom and insight. Make it a priority to seek out wisdom as a hidden treasure or fine gold. Proverbs says that wisdom will set a garland of grace on your head and she will present us with a crown of splendor. (Proverbs 4:7-9)      

Let us give thanks to the Lord for His love and assurance that He is there for us. Let us look forward to what He has in store for us this New Year, for He is faithful and worthy to be worshiped and praised each and every day of our life. 

Blessings on this New Year!

 

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Posted by: missionventureministries | December 22, 2013

DEVOTED TO HIS HONOR – 2 Corinthians 3:18

2 Corinthians 3 vs 18

“But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as by the Spirit of the Lord.”  (2 Corinthians 3:18) 

How can we, as true born again believers, make choices that will bring honor to our Heavenly Father and the Savior who sacrificed himself for us? 

If Jesus was standing here, in all of His radiant holiness, purity, compassion, and love; would I say, think or do what I am doing right now?  Remember what 2 Chronicles 16:9 says: “For the eyes of the Lord run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to show Himself strong on behalf of those whose heart is loyal to Him.” 

If I were kneeling at the cross and watching Jesus being crucified, (tortured to death), for my sins, to save me from an eternity in hell; could I say, think or do what I am doing now?  

If, I were seated in heaven with the Master and all of the saints and holy angels would I say, think, or do what I am doing now? “And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with Him in heavenly realms in Christ Jesus.”  (Ephesians 2:6) 

God wants us to make right choices; not because He wants to dominate, but so that He can communicate, His love to us. And, because we are so precious to our heavenly Father and so intensely loved by Him, He wants us to make right choices, so that we can walk in unbroken fellowship with Him every moment that we live.                                                                                              

OUR CALLING AND HIS GUIDANCE 

“Come, follow me,” Jesus said, “and I will make you fishers of men.”  (Matthew 4:19) 

“Jesus has made us to be a kingdom and priests to serve His God and Father.” (Revelation 1:6) 

“But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as by the Spirit of the Lord.” (2 Corinthians 3:18) 

Our competence comes from God. He has made us competent as ministers of a new covenant. (2 Corinthians 3:5-6) 

“I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has given me strength, that He considered me faithful, appointing me into His service.” (1 Timothy 1:12) And that means every born again Christian. 

“This is to My Father’s glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be My disciples.”  (John 15:8)                                 

…”they were astonished and they took note that these men had been with Jesus.” (Acts 4:13) There is always something wonderfully different, about the people, who have been with Jesus. There is a humble spirit, and a peace in their lives; because, Jesus is always the center of attention.     

 “Ask and you shall receive, and your joy will be complete.” (John 16:24) God said it, that settles it, and it is our choice if we believe it.  

Jesus said: “Did you not know that I must be about my Father’s business?” (Luke 2:49) That is what God wants us all to do, to reach out to the lost. 

. . .“to know the love of Christ which passes knowledge; that you may be filled with all the fullness of God. Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us. . .”  (Ephesians 3:19-20)

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Posted by: missionventureministries | December 16, 2013

CHRISTMAS MESSAGE – THE GREATEST GIFT OF ALL – Isaiah 1:18

Isaiah 1 vs 18

“Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow.” (Isaiah 1:18) 

During this time of the year we need to realize that Jesus Christ is the reason we celebrate Christmas.

Over 2000 years ago, God’s love came down from heaven to earth and the world was blessed with a miracle of love. 

With a guiding star and a choir of angels rejoicing from heaven, they pointed to a tiny babe within the manger, a Savior bringing peace to earth, the greatest gift of all.  

Jesus did not come to a throne, but a manger; He lived not as a king, but as a servant. He chose not an earthly kingdom, but a cross. He gave not just a little, but He gave us everything. 

As we look at the snow covered field, we are reminded of what Jesus did for us and what Isaiah wrote about over 600 years before the Messiah was born: “Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow.” (Isaiah 1:18)

Jesus came to the earth as a baby, grew in favor and wisdom, died on the cross for all of us and rose again and sits at the right hand of the Father in heaven. One day He will come for those who have made Him the Lord of their lives, those who obey Him and have accepted Him as their Savior.

Yes, Jesus came to be a glorious light in a darkened world; He came to bring hope to everyone. Jesus is the light of the world and a gift to us from God. He was sent to the world to save us from sin and eternal damnation. He was sent to us, as the most amazing gift from God. “For God so loved the world that he gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” (John 3:16)

Of all the gifts you will ever receive, the gift of salvation that Jesus Christ offers us, is by far the most precious gift you will ever receive because it is one that will last for all eternity.

In honor to our Savior let us love Him and obey His commandments, therefore, why not give tribute to Jesus in everything that we say, think and do, today and every day of our life.  

Remember, true salvation always results in a holy life ready to serve our gracious God who has granted us deliverance from the bondage of sin. 

If you have never trusted in Christ as your Savior, you find yourself in darkness and the shadow of death. The good news however is that God is merciful to all sinners. That is why Jesus came to earth as a baby. Ask Him to guide you into the way of peace. Repent of your sins and trust in Jesus Christ as your Savior. If you submit to Christ you will know His tender mercy that forgives all your sins. You will know the real meaning of Christmas.

Celebrating the humble birth of our glorious Savior, we wish you a Season with overflowing peace and joy.

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Christmas blessings,

Mission Venture Ministries

Anytime, Anything, Anywhere for Jesus, because He is so worthy. 

For unto us a Child is born,
Unto us a Son is given;
And the government will be upon His shoulder.
And His name will be called
Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

Isaiah 9:6

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Posted in CHRISTMAS MESSAGE – THE GREATEST GIFT OF ALL – Isaiah 1:18, Isaiah, John | Tags: , , , , ,

Posted by: missionventureministries | December 8, 2013

DANGER IN RESISTING GOD’S CALL TO SALVATION – Hebrews 3:7-8

Hebrews 3 vs 7-8

Therefore, just as the Holy Spirit says, today if you hear His voice, do not harden your hearts – Hebrews 3:7-8 

Many people do not realize how dangerous it is to procrastinate, and to wait to take the step to make a decision to accept Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. 

People many times say, tomorrow is another day, I will make a decision then. In James 4:14 we read: “Yet you do not know what your life will be like tomorrow. You are just a vapor that appears for a little while and then vanishes away.”  Your last chance to accept the free gift of salvation given through grace might be right now. Think on this, many unbelievers seam to be satisfied with their current life, and neglect their spiritual need. Many understand the gospel and realize their need of salvation; even so they still put off making a decision. 

There may be another opportunity, but it is presumptuous and dangerous to impose on God’s patient mercy. 

Today is the day of salvation . . . behold, now is “THE ACCEPTABLE TIME,” behold, now is “THE DAY OF SALVATION” – 2 Corinthians 6:2. The time to accept His free gift is now! Do not wait or it might be too late: “It is a terrifying thing to fall into the hands of the living God” – Hebrews 10:31 and the consequences of disobedience is an eternity apart from God in the lake of fire.  

Why not take the time right now to receive eternal life, it is as simple as A-B-C: 

Admit – I am a sinner and cannot attain eternal life by myself. Everyone has sinned and needs God’s forgiveness. “All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” (Romans 3:23) 

Believe – in Jesus Christ as God’s only Son who was crucified for my sins. “God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” (Romans 5:8)

God’s forgiveness is available to all. “God so loved the world that He gave His One and Only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life.” (John 3:16)

Confess – that Jesus Christ is Lord of my life. “If you confess with your mouth Jesus as Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.” (Romans 10:9)

According to the Bible, it is impossible to get to heaven on our own. “By grace you are saved through faith, and this is not from yourselves; it is God’s gift-not from works, so that no one can boast.” (Ephesians 2:8-9) 

Turn away from sin and self. “Unless you repent, you will all perish as well!” (Luke 13:3)

Turn to Jesus alone as your Savior and Lord. “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.” (John 14:6) 

New Jerusalem is the place where we will live with God forever if we are willing to repent of our sins and confess Christ as our Lord and Savior.

New Jerusalem

 Jesus said: “If I go away and prepare a place for you, I will come back and receive you to Myself, so that where I am you may be also.” (John 14:3) 

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Posted in 2 Corinthians, DANGER IN RESISTING GOD’S CALL TO SALVATION – Hebrews 3:7-8, Ephesians, Hebrews, James, John, Luke, Romans | Tags: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Posted by: missionventureministries | December 1, 2013

STEPS TO ANSWERED PRAYER – John 11:41-42

John 11 vs 41-42Then Jesus looked up and said, “Father, I thank you that you have heard me. I knew that you always hear me, but I said this for the benefit of the people standing here, that they may believe that you sent me.” John 11:41-42 

Jesus thanked His Father for answered prayer, before His prayer was answered. His mind was so in tune with the Father that He could boldly ask knowing it was the will of God. In the same way, our Savior calls us to align our hearts with our Heavenly Father’s heart. His plan is for our requests to be His desires, our needs to be His wishes, our goals to be His objectives, our will to be His will. Consequently, we can thank Him for answered prayers. 

We need to realize that our highest aim should be to bring glory to God. So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God (1 Corinthians 10:31), and this includes praying according to His will. First, we must ask for wisdom. “If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him” (James 1:5). In asking for wisdom, we must also trust that God is gracious and willing to answer our prayers: “But when he asks, he must believe and not doubt” (James 1:6). And Mark 11:24 also states: “Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.” So, praying according to the will of God includes two very important aspects.  

  1. Asking for wisdom, that we may understand and know the will of God and
  2. Asking in faith, trusting in the will of God.

We should follow the example of godly people in Scripture like the early church prayed for boldness to witness (Acts 4:29). As with Paul and the early church, we should always be praying for the salvation of others. These prayers are according to the will of God. 

For ourselves, we should pray as David prayed, always aware of our sinful nature and bringing it before God before sin hinders our relationship with Him and our prayers do not get answered. 

Our prayers should be according to correct motives, because selfish motives will not be blessed by God. “When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, that you may spend what you get on your pleasures.” (James 4:3)  

We also need to pray with a spirit of forgiveness toward others (Mark 11:25). A spirit of bitterness, anger, revenge or hatred toward others will prevent our hearts from praying in total submission to God. Just as we are told not to give offerings to God while there is conflict between ourselves and another Christian (Matthew 5:23-24), in the same way God does not accept our prayers until we have reconciled with our brothers and sisters in Christ. 

We need to remember to always pray with thanksgiving (Colossians 4:2). Paul wrote to the Philippians: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus” (4:6-7). We can always find something to be thankful for, no matter how burdened we are by our wants or needs.  

As we submit to His will and pray accordingly, we need to be patient knowing that the Father knows the time and place for everything. And as we continue praying, we start thanking Him and waiting for the answer with faith, because the Lord knows what we need and what is best for us.  

And lastly we rely on the Holy Spirit to intercede for us during those times when we feel that we just cannot pray, and we have the comfort of knowing that the Holy Spirit is actually praying for us, “We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express. And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints in accordance with God’s will.” (Romans 8:26-27)  

What absolute assurance we have when we walk in the Spirit and not in the flesh! Then we can have confidence that the Holy Spirit will accomplish His work in presenting our prayers to the Father according to His perfect will and timing and we can rest in the knowledge that God works for the good of those who love Him. (Romans 8:28) 

When we pray according to God’s will, the Lord hears our petition and we truly can say: “Praise be to God, who has not rejected my prayer or withheld His love from me!” (Psalm 66:20) 

What an awesome God we have!

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Posted in 1 Corinthians, Acts, Colossians, James, John, Mark, Matthew, Philippians, Psalms, Romans, STEPS TO ANSWERED PRAYER - John 11:41-42 | Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

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