Have You Ever Been Caught in A Blackout? By Keith Cook
"But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvelous light:" 1 Peter 2:9
A blackout is a time when all of the lights go off. It can be a scary situation, but rest assured, when the lights go out, God wants you to know that there is a light for you.
In the Bible we see representation of spiritual blackouts related to sin, the earth, and death.
There was a blackout where the light of God went out in men's hearts because of sin. The blackout occurred when the men no longer followed God, but their own way, their own plan, and their own agenda. It is a catastrophe to have the light of God go out in your life.
The earth was also darkened when Jesus died on the cross. Jesus took all the sins of every man, woman, and child upon Himself, and the earth became dark. Spiritual darkness was defeated then. The true light of God shown brightly on all of mankind through Jesus Christ. The death and victorious resurrection of Jesus shown the light of God on life that was possible in Heaven for all mankind. It was now possible for fallen man to walk in the revealed light of God's pathway that leads to eternity with Him. Because Jesus paid for all of the sins of the entire world real light shattered the darkness.
The Bible also speaks of the darkness of death. Everyone is assured of a time when they will one day pass from this life into another. We all will face death. It is sure and we will enter into the darkness of death. According to the scripture, we should not live in defeat because of the threat of death, but we should live victoriously in the light of God. We should not live in fear of the blackout of death, because Jesus is the Light of the World. He will shine in the darkness.
He has provided for you and He will continue to show you the path that is illuminated by His love that leads all the way through this life but on through the door of death into eternity. If you come to Him and get to really know Him, then you will have victorious peace at the blackout of death and will awaken in the light of His presence. You do not have to fear death. The light of God's Son will shine the way!
Jesus loves you and He wants you to take the three steps that leads through the darkness into real light.
1. Admit that you are a sinner and cannot save yourself.
2. Believe in Jesus Christ as God's only Son and your Savior.
3. Confess your sins before God and call upon Him to save you.
You can shine the light on your life today and vanquish the darkness by taking these three steps right now. Turn the light on by praying today. "Dear God I have sinned against you and I have a dirty sinful heart. I realize you sent Jesus Christ your Son to die on the cross, shed His blood for me, and pay for all my sins so that I may have a clean heart and eternal life. I invite Christ into my heart right now and accept Him and what He did for me. Come into my heart, Lord Jesus and cleanse it. Thank you for giving me a new life, a clean heart, and eternal life in Heaven. In Jesus name, Amen."
If you prayed to receive Jesus Christ as Your Lord and Savior today, we would love to know about it. Please email us or contact us at the phone number or address listed below. We rejoice with you in your decision to follow Christ and would like to send you some free materials which will be vital tools you can use in your walk with God.
Personal Prayer Focus: Pray that others will see the light of Christ transparent in your life and that they will be drawn to Him.
On The Go Prayer Focus: Joan Cook's "Women On The Go" Ministries. Joan's "Women On The Go" programs are implemented at women's conferences, local churches, retreats, and separate stand-alone events. God has given her a burden to minister to and encourage women in their walk with the Lord. Pray for Joan as she ministers and shares from her heart and as she presents motivational, evangelistic programs, materials, and leadership to and for women that will challenge and motivate them to a deeper walk with the Lord.2015
Thank you for taking the time to pray for this important division of On The Go Ministries. For more information on any our ministries here at On The Go, you may send your questions to info@onthego.org.
On The Go Daily Devotion for May 5, 2015
Brought to you each day by On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
Copyright (c) 2004, 2015 On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
Permission is granted to "forward" this devotional to friends and acquaintances. All other rights reserved.
On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
P.O. Box 963, Springfield, TN 37172, (615) 299-0222, www.onthego.org
E-zine Editor, Laurie McTier, laurie@onthego.org
Send E-zine questions or comments to: ezines@onthego.org
______________________________________________
Subscribing - If you're reading a pass-along copy of this "On The Go" devotional e-zine and want to receive your own subscription, free of charge, simply fill out the online form at http://onthego.org/ezine_newsletters.php .
After registering online you will receive an e-mail asking you to confirm your subscription request, and you simply reply to that e-mail. Thank you and God bless.
Tuesday, May 5, 2015
Monday, May 4, 2015
Please Don't Feed The Flesh
Please Don't Feed The Flesh by Joan Cook
"For what man knows the things of a man except the spirit of the man which is in him? Even so no one knows the things of God except the Spirit of God. Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, that we might know the things that have been freely given to us by God." 1 Corinthians 2:11-16
To grow and develop physically, we must be well nourished. The same is true for our spiritual man. When we're hungry, we eat, there will never be a time when you'll fill your body up so much that you won't ever be hungry again. You must eat daily. Yesterday's meal doesn't fill you up today. On the other hand, what you ate yesterday does affect your body today!
Our spiritual man is hungry! Daily we must eat! Yesterday's spiritual food doesn't fill you up for today. It certainly makes your spirit man stronger or weaker depending on what you've ingested.
When you became a Christian, you received the Holy Spirit of God living in you!
Now, you have a choice: Feed the Flesh or Feed the Spirit! There is a battle in each of us - between flesh and spirit - who are we going to feed?
When we feed the flesh, we fill up on things of the world that make us feel good. Things we want! Filling our appetites on worldly desires without checking with our God to see if what we desire is in line with His desire for us.
When we feed the spirit, we nourish that relationship with the Lord so that we are able to have the "mind of Christ" in every situation
Materialism takes a very strong hold when we feed the flesh. It brings about discontentment, causing things to look better "over there" and cloud our thinking and vision. It taints what we have so that it looks less desirable. It is magnetizing. When the spirit of materialism takes hold it draws you away from God and closer to the specific desire.
Consider the following parallels:
Fleshly Desire - Discontentment - Discouragement -Depression - Death
Spiritual Desire - Contentment - Encouragement - Joy - Life
"Do you not know that you are the temple of God and that the Spirit of God dwells in you?" 1 Corinthians 3:16-17
Daily Prayer Focus: Pray today that you will choose spiritual desires over the flesh, contentment over discontentment, encouragement over discouragement, joy over depression, and life over death.
On The Go Prayer Focus: On The Go's GoCare ministry. This is our acts of kindness and benevolence ministry department. The focus of our GoCare ministry is to reach out to physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of hurting individuals and to build bridges between churches and their communities.
On The Go Daily Devotion for May 4, 2015
Brought to you each day by On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
Copyright (c) 2007, 2015 On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
Permission is granted to "forward" this devotional to friends and acquaintances. All other rights reserved.
On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
P.O. Box 963, Springfield, TN 37172, (615) 299-0222, www.onthego.org
E-zine Editor, Laurie McTier, laurie@onthego.org
Send E-zine questions or comments to: ezines@onthego.org
______________________________________________
Subscribing - If you're reading a pass-along copy of this "On The Go" devotional e-zine and want to receive your own subscription, free of charge, simply fill out the online form at http://onthego.org/ezine_newsletters.php .
After registering online you will receive an e-mail asking you to confirm your subscription request, and you simply reply to that e-mail. Thank you and God bless.
"For what man knows the things of a man except the spirit of the man which is in him? Even so no one knows the things of God except the Spirit of God. Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, that we might know the things that have been freely given to us by God." 1 Corinthians 2:11-16
To grow and develop physically, we must be well nourished. The same is true for our spiritual man. When we're hungry, we eat, there will never be a time when you'll fill your body up so much that you won't ever be hungry again. You must eat daily. Yesterday's meal doesn't fill you up today. On the other hand, what you ate yesterday does affect your body today!
Our spiritual man is hungry! Daily we must eat! Yesterday's spiritual food doesn't fill you up for today. It certainly makes your spirit man stronger or weaker depending on what you've ingested.
When you became a Christian, you received the Holy Spirit of God living in you!
Now, you have a choice: Feed the Flesh or Feed the Spirit! There is a battle in each of us - between flesh and spirit - who are we going to feed?
When we feed the flesh, we fill up on things of the world that make us feel good. Things we want! Filling our appetites on worldly desires without checking with our God to see if what we desire is in line with His desire for us.
When we feed the spirit, we nourish that relationship with the Lord so that we are able to have the "mind of Christ" in every situation
Materialism takes a very strong hold when we feed the flesh. It brings about discontentment, causing things to look better "over there" and cloud our thinking and vision. It taints what we have so that it looks less desirable. It is magnetizing. When the spirit of materialism takes hold it draws you away from God and closer to the specific desire.
Consider the following parallels:
Fleshly Desire - Discontentment - Discouragement -Depression - Death
Spiritual Desire - Contentment - Encouragement - Joy - Life
"Do you not know that you are the temple of God and that the Spirit of God dwells in you?" 1 Corinthians 3:16-17
Daily Prayer Focus: Pray today that you will choose spiritual desires over the flesh, contentment over discontentment, encouragement over discouragement, joy over depression, and life over death.
On The Go Prayer Focus: On The Go's GoCare ministry. This is our acts of kindness and benevolence ministry department. The focus of our GoCare ministry is to reach out to physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of hurting individuals and to build bridges between churches and their communities.
On The Go Daily Devotion for May 4, 2015
Brought to you each day by On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
Copyright (c) 2007, 2015 On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
Permission is granted to "forward" this devotional to friends and acquaintances. All other rights reserved.
On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
P.O. Box 963, Springfield, TN 37172, (615) 299-0222, www.onthego.org
E-zine Editor, Laurie McTier, laurie@onthego.org
Send E-zine questions or comments to: ezines@onthego.org
______________________________________________
Subscribing - If you're reading a pass-along copy of this "On The Go" devotional e-zine and want to receive your own subscription, free of charge, simply fill out the online form at http://onthego.org/ezine_newsletters.php .
After registering online you will receive an e-mail asking you to confirm your subscription request, and you simply reply to that e-mail. Thank you and God bless.
Sunday, May 3, 2015
Without Jesus, We Do Not Stand a Chance
Without Jesus, We Do Not Stand a Chance by Dr. Ken Mattox, DDS
"And the Spirit and the bride say, Come! And let him who hears say, Come! And let him who thirsts come. Whoever desires, let him take the water of life freely." Revelation 22:17
As I look back over my life, I thank God for the many times He has protected me from myself. As a child, I was stubborn, rebellious, headstrong, and sassy. I remember my mother washing my mouth out with soap for saying nasty words when I was as young as five or six years old.
I received many whippings at home and at school, and I honestly needed every one of them. I sat alone in the auditorium in isolation many days. I was expelled in the fifth grade. In the seventh or eighth grade, a teacher told me that I would be in prison by the time I was twenty.
There are times in our lives that we need to realize that our way is not God's way, and we should turn back to Him. At the age of twelve, I made my profession of faith in Christ and was baptized.
Without Jesus, we do not stand a chance. The pressures on our young people today to drink alcohol, do drugs, commit fornication, lie, steal, and cheat are unbelievable! There's a void in our lives that only God can completely fill. Without Him, we fill it with everything else that is evil.
Christ's death and persecution paid the ultimate sacrifice for our sin debt. The Bible reads in Hebrews 4:16 that the gift of life and God's love are offered freely to all who will receive. Come boldly before God today and make your petitions known unto Him. The fact still remains, without Him, we do not stand a chance.
(This devotion was taken as an excerpt with permission from Dr. Mattox's book entitled "A Light in the Darkness". This book contains scripture references that have impacted Dr. Mattox's life and illustrations from some of experiences on the mission field. To receive your own personal copy of his book, please contact On The Go Ministries. Dr. Mattox went home to Heaven in October, 2006. He has been such a blessing to all of us fortunate to know and minister with him. Thank you Dr. Mattox!)
Personal Prayer Focus: Praise God for His unconditional love and unending love that has been freely offered so that we might come to know Him and have an intimate relationship with Him.
On The Go Prayer Focus: Keith Cook Crusades, Celebrations, and Festivals. God has given Keith the opportunity and privilege of sharing the message of Christ both stateside and internationally. During each opportunity, Keith presents a joyful and enthusiastic, yet powerful and clear presentation of the Gospel and a call to commitment to Christ.
Thank you for taking the time to pray for this important division of On The Go Ministries. For more information on any our ministries here at On The Go, you may send your questions to info@onthego.org.
On The Go Daily Devotion for May 3, 2015
Brought to you each day by On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
Copyright (c) 2003, 2015 On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
Permission is granted to "forward" this devotional to friends and acquaintances. All other rights reserved.
On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
P.O. Box 963, Springfield, TN 37172, (615) 299-0222, www.onthego.org
E-zine Editor, Laurie McTier, laurie@onthego.org
Send E-zine questions or comments to: ezines@onthego.org
______________________________________________
Subscribing - If you're reading a pass-along copy of this "On The Go" devotional e-zine and want to receive your own subscription, free of charge, simply fill out the online form at http://onthego.org/ezine_newsletters.php .
After registering online you will receive an e-mail asking you to confirm your subscription request, and you simply reply to that e-mail. Thank you and God bless.
"And the Spirit and the bride say, Come! And let him who hears say, Come! And let him who thirsts come. Whoever desires, let him take the water of life freely." Revelation 22:17
As I look back over my life, I thank God for the many times He has protected me from myself. As a child, I was stubborn, rebellious, headstrong, and sassy. I remember my mother washing my mouth out with soap for saying nasty words when I was as young as five or six years old.
I received many whippings at home and at school, and I honestly needed every one of them. I sat alone in the auditorium in isolation many days. I was expelled in the fifth grade. In the seventh or eighth grade, a teacher told me that I would be in prison by the time I was twenty.
There are times in our lives that we need to realize that our way is not God's way, and we should turn back to Him. At the age of twelve, I made my profession of faith in Christ and was baptized.
Without Jesus, we do not stand a chance. The pressures on our young people today to drink alcohol, do drugs, commit fornication, lie, steal, and cheat are unbelievable! There's a void in our lives that only God can completely fill. Without Him, we fill it with everything else that is evil.
Christ's death and persecution paid the ultimate sacrifice for our sin debt. The Bible reads in Hebrews 4:16 that the gift of life and God's love are offered freely to all who will receive. Come boldly before God today and make your petitions known unto Him. The fact still remains, without Him, we do not stand a chance.
(This devotion was taken as an excerpt with permission from Dr. Mattox's book entitled "A Light in the Darkness". This book contains scripture references that have impacted Dr. Mattox's life and illustrations from some of experiences on the mission field. To receive your own personal copy of his book, please contact On The Go Ministries. Dr. Mattox went home to Heaven in October, 2006. He has been such a blessing to all of us fortunate to know and minister with him. Thank you Dr. Mattox!)
Personal Prayer Focus: Praise God for His unconditional love and unending love that has been freely offered so that we might come to know Him and have an intimate relationship with Him.
On The Go Prayer Focus: Keith Cook Crusades, Celebrations, and Festivals. God has given Keith the opportunity and privilege of sharing the message of Christ both stateside and internationally. During each opportunity, Keith presents a joyful and enthusiastic, yet powerful and clear presentation of the Gospel and a call to commitment to Christ.
Thank you for taking the time to pray for this important division of On The Go Ministries. For more information on any our ministries here at On The Go, you may send your questions to info@onthego.org.
On The Go Daily Devotion for May 3, 2015
Brought to you each day by On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
Copyright (c) 2003, 2015 On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
Permission is granted to "forward" this devotional to friends and acquaintances. All other rights reserved.
On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
P.O. Box 963, Springfield, TN 37172, (615) 299-0222, www.onthego.org
E-zine Editor, Laurie McTier, laurie@onthego.org
Send E-zine questions or comments to: ezines@onthego.org
______________________________________________
Subscribing - If you're reading a pass-along copy of this "On The Go" devotional e-zine and want to receive your own subscription, free of charge, simply fill out the online form at http://onthego.org/ezine_newsletters.php .
After registering online you will receive an e-mail asking you to confirm your subscription request, and you simply reply to that e-mail. Thank you and God bless.
Friday, May 1, 2015
Jesus Refines You
Jesus Refines You by Keith Cook
"And he shall sit as a refiner and purifier of silver." Malachi 3:3
I found this story online several years ago and it has blessed my life and the lives of many others.
Some time ago, a few ladies met to study the scriptures. While reading the third chapter of Malachi, they came upon a remarkable expression in the third verse: "And He shall sit as a refiner and purifier of silver." Malachi 3:3
One lady decided to visit a silversmith and that she would report to the others on what he said about the subject. She went accordingly and without telling him the reason for her visit, begged the silversmith to tell her about the process of refining silver.
After he had fully described it to her, she asked, "Sir, do you sit while the work of refining is going on?" "Oh, yes ma'am," replied the silversmith, "I must sit and watch the furnace constantly, for if the time necessary for refining is exceeded in the slightest degree, the silver will be injured."
The lady at once saw the beauty and comfort of the expression; He shall sit as a refiner and purifier of silver. God sees it necessary to put His children into the furnace, but His eye is steadily intent on the work of purifying. His wisdom and love are both engaged in the best manner for us. Our trials do not come at random. He will not let us be tested beyond what we can endure.
Before she left, the lady asked one final question, "How do you know when the process is complete?" "That's quite simple", replied the silversmith. "When I can see my own image in the silver, the refining process is finished."
Today as you go about your life and ministry I pray Jesus can see Himself in you.
Personal Prayer Focus: Pray that you will be used of God this week to reflect the compassion and character of God to all you meet.
On The Go Prayer Focus: Keith Cook Crusades, Celebrations, and Festivals. God has given Keith the opportunity and privilege of sharing the message of Christ both stateside and internationally. During each opportunity, Keith presents a joyful and enthusiastic, yet powerful and clear presentation of the Gospel and a call to commitment to Christ.
Thank you for taking the time to pray for this important division of On The Go Ministries. For more information on any our ministries here at On The Go, you may send your questions to info@onthego.org.
On The Go Daily Devotion for May 1, 2015
Brought to you each day by On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
Copyright (c) 2003, 2015 On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
Permission is granted to "forward" this devotional to friends and acquaintances. All other rights reserved.
On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
P.O. Box 963, Springfield, TN 37172, (615) 299-0222, www.onthego.org
E-zine Editor, Laurie McTier, laurie@onthego.org
Send E-zine questions or comments to: ezines@onthego.org
______________________________________________
Subscribing - If you're reading a pass-along copy of this "On The Go" devotional e-zine and want to receive your own subscription, free of charge, simply fill out the online form at http://onthego.org/ezine_newsletters.php .
After registering online you will receive an e-mail asking you to confirm your subscription request, and you simply reply to that e-mail. Thank you and God bless.
"And he shall sit as a refiner and purifier of silver." Malachi 3:3
I found this story online several years ago and it has blessed my life and the lives of many others.
Some time ago, a few ladies met to study the scriptures. While reading the third chapter of Malachi, they came upon a remarkable expression in the third verse: "And He shall sit as a refiner and purifier of silver." Malachi 3:3
One lady decided to visit a silversmith and that she would report to the others on what he said about the subject. She went accordingly and without telling him the reason for her visit, begged the silversmith to tell her about the process of refining silver.
After he had fully described it to her, she asked, "Sir, do you sit while the work of refining is going on?" "Oh, yes ma'am," replied the silversmith, "I must sit and watch the furnace constantly, for if the time necessary for refining is exceeded in the slightest degree, the silver will be injured."
The lady at once saw the beauty and comfort of the expression; He shall sit as a refiner and purifier of silver. God sees it necessary to put His children into the furnace, but His eye is steadily intent on the work of purifying. His wisdom and love are both engaged in the best manner for us. Our trials do not come at random. He will not let us be tested beyond what we can endure.
Before she left, the lady asked one final question, "How do you know when the process is complete?" "That's quite simple", replied the silversmith. "When I can see my own image in the silver, the refining process is finished."
Today as you go about your life and ministry I pray Jesus can see Himself in you.
Personal Prayer Focus: Pray that you will be used of God this week to reflect the compassion and character of God to all you meet.
On The Go Prayer Focus: Keith Cook Crusades, Celebrations, and Festivals. God has given Keith the opportunity and privilege of sharing the message of Christ both stateside and internationally. During each opportunity, Keith presents a joyful and enthusiastic, yet powerful and clear presentation of the Gospel and a call to commitment to Christ.
Thank you for taking the time to pray for this important division of On The Go Ministries. For more information on any our ministries here at On The Go, you may send your questions to info@onthego.org.
On The Go Daily Devotion for May 1, 2015
Brought to you each day by On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
Copyright (c) 2003, 2015 On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
Permission is granted to "forward" this devotional to friends and acquaintances. All other rights reserved.
On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
P.O. Box 963, Springfield, TN 37172, (615) 299-0222, www.onthego.org
E-zine Editor, Laurie McTier, laurie@onthego.org
Send E-zine questions or comments to: ezines@onthego.org
______________________________________________
Subscribing - If you're reading a pass-along copy of this "On The Go" devotional e-zine and want to receive your own subscription, free of charge, simply fill out the online form at http://onthego.org/ezine_newsletters.php .
After registering online you will receive an e-mail asking you to confirm your subscription request, and you simply reply to that e-mail. Thank you and God bless.
Thursday, April 30, 2015
Stand Strong, Tear Down the Wall of Sin
Stand Strong, Tear Down the Wall of Sin by Laurie McTier
"...Joshua said to the people: 'Shout, for the LORD has given you the city!' So the people shouted when the priests blew the trumpets. And it happened when the people heard the sound of the trumpet, and the people shouted with a great shout, that the wall fell down flat. Then the people went up into the city, every man straight before him, and they took the city." Joshua 6:16, 20
We will never forget where we were when we saw the breaking news that many of the statutes of Sadaam Hussein had been torn down by Coalition forces and the Iraqi people. The people of Iraq have lived in fear and under dictatorship. They have been under the iron rule of an evil dictator who only sought personal gain.
As I have observed current events I am reminded of Joshua as he fought the battle of Jericho. God gave him specific battle commands. The Israelites marched around the city seven days in a row. On the seventh day, God gave them a mighty victory as they sought to remain faithful and follow His instructions. The priests blew their trumpets, the people shouted, and the walls fell flat before the army.
What walls or statutes do you have in your life. The Bible states that every man is born a sinner and has come short of the glory of God. When we put our faith and trust in Jesus Christ, He frees us from the penalty of our sin, and He forgives us and cleanses us. If we have sin in our lives, our communication line with God is broken. Sin separates us from God. Just as God tore down the walls of Jericho and the statutes of an evil dictator, He wants to tear down walls of sin in your life.
Ask God to search your heart and show you sin that is present. We must put on our spiritual armor every day to fight against the darts that Satan attempts to send our way. Stand strong, stand guard, stand faithful to God, and allow Him to reign supreme in your heart.
Personal Prayer Focus: Pray that God will destroy walls and statutes of evil that have developed in your life. Pray that He will purify your heart.
On The Go Prayer Focus: Keith Cook, Joan Cook, the U.S.A. Staff, and On The Go Board of Directors, as they add leadership and direction for the ongoing ministries of the Keith Cook Team and On The Go.
Thank you for taking the time to pray for this important division of On The Go Ministries. For more information on any our ministries here at On The Go, you may send your questions to info@onthego.org.
On The Go Daily Devotion for April 30, 2015
Brought to you each day by On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
Copyright (c) 2003, 2015 On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
Permission is granted to "forward" this devotional to friends and acquaintances. All other rights reserved.
On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
P.O. Box 963, Springfield, TN 37172, (615) 299-0222, www.onthego.org
E-zine Editor, Laurie McTier, laurie@onthego.org
Send E-zine questions or comments to: ezines@onthego.org
______________________________________________
Subscribing - If you're reading a pass-along copy of this "On The Go" devotional e-zine and want to receive your own subscription, free of charge, simply fill out the online form at http://onthego.org/ezine_newsletters.php .
After registering online you will receive an e-mail asking you to confirm your subscription request, and you simply reply to that e-mail. Thank you and God bless.
"...Joshua said to the people: 'Shout, for the LORD has given you the city!' So the people shouted when the priests blew the trumpets. And it happened when the people heard the sound of the trumpet, and the people shouted with a great shout, that the wall fell down flat. Then the people went up into the city, every man straight before him, and they took the city." Joshua 6:16, 20
We will never forget where we were when we saw the breaking news that many of the statutes of Sadaam Hussein had been torn down by Coalition forces and the Iraqi people. The people of Iraq have lived in fear and under dictatorship. They have been under the iron rule of an evil dictator who only sought personal gain.
As I have observed current events I am reminded of Joshua as he fought the battle of Jericho. God gave him specific battle commands. The Israelites marched around the city seven days in a row. On the seventh day, God gave them a mighty victory as they sought to remain faithful and follow His instructions. The priests blew their trumpets, the people shouted, and the walls fell flat before the army.
What walls or statutes do you have in your life. The Bible states that every man is born a sinner and has come short of the glory of God. When we put our faith and trust in Jesus Christ, He frees us from the penalty of our sin, and He forgives us and cleanses us. If we have sin in our lives, our communication line with God is broken. Sin separates us from God. Just as God tore down the walls of Jericho and the statutes of an evil dictator, He wants to tear down walls of sin in your life.
Ask God to search your heart and show you sin that is present. We must put on our spiritual armor every day to fight against the darts that Satan attempts to send our way. Stand strong, stand guard, stand faithful to God, and allow Him to reign supreme in your heart.
Personal Prayer Focus: Pray that God will destroy walls and statutes of evil that have developed in your life. Pray that He will purify your heart.
On The Go Prayer Focus: Keith Cook, Joan Cook, the U.S.A. Staff, and On The Go Board of Directors, as they add leadership and direction for the ongoing ministries of the Keith Cook Team and On The Go.
Thank you for taking the time to pray for this important division of On The Go Ministries. For more information on any our ministries here at On The Go, you may send your questions to info@onthego.org.
On The Go Daily Devotion for April 30, 2015
Brought to you each day by On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
Copyright (c) 2003, 2015 On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
Permission is granted to "forward" this devotional to friends and acquaintances. All other rights reserved.
On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
P.O. Box 963, Springfield, TN 37172, (615) 299-0222, www.onthego.org
E-zine Editor, Laurie McTier, laurie@onthego.org
Send E-zine questions or comments to: ezines@onthego.org
______________________________________________
Subscribing - If you're reading a pass-along copy of this "On The Go" devotional e-zine and want to receive your own subscription, free of charge, simply fill out the online form at http://onthego.org/ezine_newsletters.php .
After registering online you will receive an e-mail asking you to confirm your subscription request, and you simply reply to that e-mail. Thank you and God bless.
Wednesday, April 29, 2015
Living in God's Tent
Living in God's Tent by Keith Cook
"A Psalm of David. Jehovah, who doth sojourn in Thy tent? Who doth dwell in Thy holy hill? He who is walking uprightly, And working righteousness, And speaking truth in his heart. He hath not slandered by his tongue, He hath not done to his friend evil; And reproach he hath not lifted up Against his neighbour. Despised in his eyes is a rejected one, And those fearing Jehovah he doth honour. He hath sworn to suffer evil, and changeth not; His silver he hath not given in usury, And a bribe against the innocent Hath not taken; Whoso is doing these is not moved to the age!" Psalms 15:1-5 (YLT Youngs Literal Translation)
Living with God is an awesome thing. Just to know that you are in Christ changes your entire outlook on life. You have purpose, meaning, and assurance of so much - just because you know where your home is and who is standing with you in all you do.
David, was asking God who can live with you? Who has the right - who has the opportunity?
According to God's Word - the way to live with God is to:
1. Walk upright (vs 2)
2. Work Rightly (vs 2)
3. Speak Truth (vs 2)
Examples of walking, working and speaking in a way that gains us admittance and residency in God's tent (tabernacle) are:
1. Having a pure heart (vs 2)
2. Never talking about others in harmful ways (vs 3)
3. Not doing anything to hurt, harm, or hinder a friend (vs 3)
4. Getting along with others no matter what they have done to you (vs 3)
5 Not associating with those who do evil or fight God's purpose in life (vs 4)
6. Honoring and a giving a place of esteem to those who live for God and live by faith (vs 4)
7. Keeping one's word even when it is hard to do or not convenient because of one's commitment to honor God in every area of one's life - not changing your mind about what you have said you will do. (vs 4)
8. Not taking advantage of others in times of trouble (vs 5)
9. Not being swayed in helping and standing with others and not being bought off by peer pressure, prejudice, or ignorance (vs 5)
After looking at this list it is probably plain to see that if that is the standard for living in God's tent then no one could ever live with God forever because each of us has at one time or another not followed these admonitions. What are we to do?
That is where salvation and the grace of God really shine great insight onto our plight and potential. In our own strength and power we are powerless to do these things all the time and earn our way into God's tent but in Christ we can gain admittance and security in God's presence forever.
When Christ died on the cross He paid the penalty for all our failures and sin. He alone can bring us into the presence of His father again. His laying down His life for our sin and the victory he won over the devil guarantees us that we will not live in the devil's tent but God's. Hell, death, and the grave no longer are our destiny of final resting place.
When we leave this life and go into eternity we can go to God's tent - Heaven - and live in God's tent forever. If we come to faith in Christ by repenting of our sins and really giving our life over to Christ then He gives us hope and daily guidance into the life He would have us live. We can never walk in the flesh and strength or our natural man but have to rely daily in Christ to live by the precepts found in this passage.
In Christ - we can walk, work, and speak and do all He would have us do. Why not prepare to live in God's tent today.
Daily Prayer: Recommit to the Lord that daily you will seek His guidance into the life He would have you to live. Pray for sensitivity to walk, work, speak, and do all that He would have you to do.
On The Go Prayer Focus: The Safety In Travel for each On The Go staffer and GoTeam volunteer.
Thank you for taking the time to pray for this important division of On The Go Ministries. For more information on any our ministries here at On The Go, you may send your questions to info@onthego.org.
On The Go Daily Devotion for April 29, 2015
Brought to you each day by On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
Copyright (c) 2008, 2015 On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
Permission is granted to "forward" this devotional to friends and acquaintances. All other rights reserved.
On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
P.O. Box 963, Springfield, TN 37172, (615) 299-0222, www.onthego.org
E-zine Editor, Laurie McTier, laurie@onthego.org
Send E-zine questions or comments to: ezines@onthego.org
______________________________________________
Subscribing - If you're reading a pass-along copy of this "On The Go" devotional e-zine and want to receive your own subscription, free of charge, simply fill out the online form at http://onthego.org/ezine_newsletters.php .
After registering online you will receive an e-mail asking you to confirm your subscription request, and you simply reply to that e-mail. Thank you and God bless.
"A Psalm of David. Jehovah, who doth sojourn in Thy tent? Who doth dwell in Thy holy hill? He who is walking uprightly, And working righteousness, And speaking truth in his heart. He hath not slandered by his tongue, He hath not done to his friend evil; And reproach he hath not lifted up Against his neighbour. Despised in his eyes is a rejected one, And those fearing Jehovah he doth honour. He hath sworn to suffer evil, and changeth not; His silver he hath not given in usury, And a bribe against the innocent Hath not taken; Whoso is doing these is not moved to the age!" Psalms 15:1-5 (YLT Youngs Literal Translation)
Living with God is an awesome thing. Just to know that you are in Christ changes your entire outlook on life. You have purpose, meaning, and assurance of so much - just because you know where your home is and who is standing with you in all you do.
David, was asking God who can live with you? Who has the right - who has the opportunity?
According to God's Word - the way to live with God is to:
1. Walk upright (vs 2)
2. Work Rightly (vs 2)
3. Speak Truth (vs 2)
Examples of walking, working and speaking in a way that gains us admittance and residency in God's tent (tabernacle) are:
1. Having a pure heart (vs 2)
2. Never talking about others in harmful ways (vs 3)
3. Not doing anything to hurt, harm, or hinder a friend (vs 3)
4. Getting along with others no matter what they have done to you (vs 3)
5 Not associating with those who do evil or fight God's purpose in life (vs 4)
6. Honoring and a giving a place of esteem to those who live for God and live by faith (vs 4)
7. Keeping one's word even when it is hard to do or not convenient because of one's commitment to honor God in every area of one's life - not changing your mind about what you have said you will do. (vs 4)
8. Not taking advantage of others in times of trouble (vs 5)
9. Not being swayed in helping and standing with others and not being bought off by peer pressure, prejudice, or ignorance (vs 5)
After looking at this list it is probably plain to see that if that is the standard for living in God's tent then no one could ever live with God forever because each of us has at one time or another not followed these admonitions. What are we to do?
That is where salvation and the grace of God really shine great insight onto our plight and potential. In our own strength and power we are powerless to do these things all the time and earn our way into God's tent but in Christ we can gain admittance and security in God's presence forever.
When Christ died on the cross He paid the penalty for all our failures and sin. He alone can bring us into the presence of His father again. His laying down His life for our sin and the victory he won over the devil guarantees us that we will not live in the devil's tent but God's. Hell, death, and the grave no longer are our destiny of final resting place.
When we leave this life and go into eternity we can go to God's tent - Heaven - and live in God's tent forever. If we come to faith in Christ by repenting of our sins and really giving our life over to Christ then He gives us hope and daily guidance into the life He would have us live. We can never walk in the flesh and strength or our natural man but have to rely daily in Christ to live by the precepts found in this passage.
In Christ - we can walk, work, and speak and do all He would have us do. Why not prepare to live in God's tent today.
Daily Prayer: Recommit to the Lord that daily you will seek His guidance into the life He would have you to live. Pray for sensitivity to walk, work, speak, and do all that He would have you to do.
On The Go Prayer Focus: The Safety In Travel for each On The Go staffer and GoTeam volunteer.
Thank you for taking the time to pray for this important division of On The Go Ministries. For more information on any our ministries here at On The Go, you may send your questions to info@onthego.org.
On The Go Daily Devotion for April 29, 2015
Brought to you each day by On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
Copyright (c) 2008, 2015 On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
Permission is granted to "forward" this devotional to friends and acquaintances. All other rights reserved.
On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
P.O. Box 963, Springfield, TN 37172, (615) 299-0222, www.onthego.org
E-zine Editor, Laurie McTier, laurie@onthego.org
Send E-zine questions or comments to: ezines@onthego.org
______________________________________________
Subscribing - If you're reading a pass-along copy of this "On The Go" devotional e-zine and want to receive your own subscription, free of charge, simply fill out the online form at http://onthego.org/ezine_newsletters.php .
After registering online you will receive an e-mail asking you to confirm your subscription request, and you simply reply to that e-mail. Thank you and God bless.
Tuesday, April 28, 2015
Beauty All Around You
Beauty All Around You by Joan Cook
"God, after He spoke long ago to the fathers in the prophets in many portions and in many ways, in these last days has spoken to us in His Son, whom He appointed heir of all things, through whom also He made the world. And He is the radiance of His glory and the exact representation of His nature, and upholds all things by the word of His power. When He had made purification of sins, He sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high, " Hebrews 1:1-3
Sitting in my brown comfy chair this morning, my feet propped up on my ottoman I was drinking my first cup of coffee when I noticed several wild turkey in my back yard. Perfect specimens of male and females, like they were pictures in a book, gobbling and eating birdseed that had fallen to the ground from the bird feeders.
I looked in my side yard and saw a family of deer grazing on grass and walking cautiously, yet so graceful.
I picked up my Bible and began to read the book of Hebrews and this scripture caught my attention. "He is the radiance of His glory and the exact representation of His nature and upholds all things by the word of His power." Wow!
As I thought about how beautiful our world is, I couldn't help but think random thoughts of some of my favorite things: the white sand, blue ocean, green trees; the beauty and fragrance of flowers, the coolness of the wind and the warmth of the sun; the twinkling stars, fluffy clouds, the majesty of the mountains...I could go on and on.
There are so many things I love and so much beauty in our world! As I read this passage I couldn't help but think how God created all of this for us to enjoy. What a good God to even be mindful of us, much less create such a beautiful place for us to live our life on earth. Creation resembles it's creator! God must have some kind of an imagination to dream up all of this, then speak it into existence.
Glory and honor and majesty be unto you, O Lord!
I hope you enjoy your day and are reminded of the beauty that is all around you. In the midst of your circumstances, God's beauty is screaming out to us every where we look saying, HE IS ALIVE AND HE CARES FOR ME!
Daily Prayer Focus: Praise God for His beauty all around you!
On The Go Prayer Focus: The Interns who faithfully come to On The Go each year to work for Christ and learn how to do ministry that matters for the kingdom of God.
Thank you for taking the time to pray for this important division of On The Go Ministries. For more information on any our ministries here at On The Go, you may send your questions to info@onthego.org.
On The Go Daily Devotion for APRIL 28, 2015
Brought to you each day by On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
Copyright (c) 2015 On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
Permission is granted to "forward" this devotional to friends and acquaintances. All other rights reserved.
On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
P.O. Box 963, Springfield, TN 37172, (615) 299-0222, www.onthego.org
E-zine Editor, Laurie McTier, laurie@onthego.org
Send E-zine questions or comments to: ezines@onthego.org
______________________________________________
Subscribing - If you're reading a pass-along copy of this "On The Go" devotional e-zine and want to receive your own subscription, free of charge, simply fill out the online form at http://onthego.org/ezine_newsletters.php .
After registering online you will receive an e-mail asking you to confirm your subscription request, and you simply reply to that e-mail. Thank you and God bless.
"God, after He spoke long ago to the fathers in the prophets in many portions and in many ways, in these last days has spoken to us in His Son, whom He appointed heir of all things, through whom also He made the world. And He is the radiance of His glory and the exact representation of His nature, and upholds all things by the word of His power. When He had made purification of sins, He sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high, " Hebrews 1:1-3
Sitting in my brown comfy chair this morning, my feet propped up on my ottoman I was drinking my first cup of coffee when I noticed several wild turkey in my back yard. Perfect specimens of male and females, like they were pictures in a book, gobbling and eating birdseed that had fallen to the ground from the bird feeders.
I looked in my side yard and saw a family of deer grazing on grass and walking cautiously, yet so graceful.
I picked up my Bible and began to read the book of Hebrews and this scripture caught my attention. "He is the radiance of His glory and the exact representation of His nature and upholds all things by the word of His power." Wow!
As I thought about how beautiful our world is, I couldn't help but think random thoughts of some of my favorite things: the white sand, blue ocean, green trees; the beauty and fragrance of flowers, the coolness of the wind and the warmth of the sun; the twinkling stars, fluffy clouds, the majesty of the mountains...I could go on and on.
There are so many things I love and so much beauty in our world! As I read this passage I couldn't help but think how God created all of this for us to enjoy. What a good God to even be mindful of us, much less create such a beautiful place for us to live our life on earth. Creation resembles it's creator! God must have some kind of an imagination to dream up all of this, then speak it into existence.
Glory and honor and majesty be unto you, O Lord!
I hope you enjoy your day and are reminded of the beauty that is all around you. In the midst of your circumstances, God's beauty is screaming out to us every where we look saying, HE IS ALIVE AND HE CARES FOR ME!
Daily Prayer Focus: Praise God for His beauty all around you!
On The Go Prayer Focus: The Interns who faithfully come to On The Go each year to work for Christ and learn how to do ministry that matters for the kingdom of God.
Thank you for taking the time to pray for this important division of On The Go Ministries. For more information on any our ministries here at On The Go, you may send your questions to info@onthego.org.
On The Go Daily Devotion for APRIL 28, 2015
Brought to you each day by On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
Copyright (c) 2015 On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
Permission is granted to "forward" this devotional to friends and acquaintances. All other rights reserved.
On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
P.O. Box 963, Springfield, TN 37172, (615) 299-0222, www.onthego.org
E-zine Editor, Laurie McTier, laurie@onthego.org
Send E-zine questions or comments to: ezines@onthego.org
______________________________________________
Subscribing - If you're reading a pass-along copy of this "On The Go" devotional e-zine and want to receive your own subscription, free of charge, simply fill out the online form at http://onthego.org/ezine_newsletters.php .
After registering online you will receive an e-mail asking you to confirm your subscription request, and you simply reply to that e-mail. Thank you and God bless.
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