Bishir Blog https://www.libertyfamily.org Thu, 28 Mar 2024 15:05:27 -0500 http://churchplantmedia.com/ 70 NEW YEAR DAY'S https://www.libertyfamily.org/bishir-blog/post/70-new-year-days https://www.libertyfamily.org/bishir-blog/post/70-new-year-days#comments Mon, 01 Jan 2024 15:05:22 -0600 https://www.libertyfamily.org/bishir-blog/post/70-new-year-days                                                       70 New Yer Day's 

I remember when I was twelve years old sitting in seventh grade Industrial Arts Class (then known as Shop) and Mr Beck was teaching us about urbanization and what the world could be like in 50-60 years. That was in 1965 and now 59 years later here I am. When Mr Beck said to consider the world in advance I thought how long in the future that was for me. Would I live that long,  how would life be for me and what would my life be like if I lived that long?  Eight years after that event my life CHANGED completely. The Lord Jesus saved me and the Holy Spirit began to dwell internally in my life.. The Bible became alive and my life has been abundant since and my eternity is a bright as the promises of God.

Life has certainly passed speedily and all the way the Lord has given eternal purposes to live for. He has been gracious to me in providing Karen as my lifetime wife and completer, and my children as lifetime friends and partners in life and ministry. Now 14 grandchildren to pray for and invest our life into.  He has led us to build our lives in His church with other brothers and sisters who love the Lord. We have been members in only two churches our first for 14 years at Union Chapel Baptist where Karen's father was the Senior Pastor and now at Liberty Baptist Church in Sweetser, In. for 36 years. The people of God that He sent to serve with us has been used of Him to bring many to the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ and to mature discipleship as they followed the Lord and now are in heaven and others are following even to this day! 

On this first day of the New Year 2023 with whatever energy and abilities we each have. From the youngest to the oldest may we take every day of precious life to serve our loving Lord!  Earthly life does go by fast but when it is invested eternally it will make and bring eternal benifts.

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                                                      70 New Yer Day's 

I remember when I was twelve years old sitting in seventh grade Industrial Arts Class (then known as Shop) and Mr Beck was teaching us about urbanization and what the world could be like in 50-60 years. That was in 1965 and now 59 years later here I am. When Mr Beck said to consider the world in advance I thought how long in the future that was for me. Would I live that long,  how would life be for me and what would my life be like if I lived that long?  Eight years after that event my life CHANGED completely. The Lord Jesus saved me and the Holy Spirit began to dwell internally in my life.. The Bible became alive and my life has been abundant since and my eternity is a bright as the promises of God.

Life has certainly passed speedily and all the way the Lord has given eternal purposes to live for. He has been gracious to me in providing Karen as my lifetime wife and completer, and my children as lifetime friends and partners in life and ministry. Now 14 grandchildren to pray for and invest our life into.  He has led us to build our lives in His church with other brothers and sisters who love the Lord. We have been members in only two churches our first for 14 years at Union Chapel Baptist where Karen's father was the Senior Pastor and now at Liberty Baptist Church in Sweetser, In. for 36 years. The people of God that He sent to serve with us has been used of Him to bring many to the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ and to mature discipleship as they followed the Lord and now are in heaven and others are following even to this day! 

On this first day of the New Year 2023 with whatever energy and abilities we each have. From the youngest to the oldest may we take every day of precious life to serve our loving Lord!  Earthly life does go by fast but when it is invested eternally it will make and bring eternal benifts.

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Making an Impact in 2024 https://www.libertyfamily.org/bishir-blog/post/making-an-impact-in-2024 https://www.libertyfamily.org/bishir-blog/post/making-an-impact-in-2024#comments Mon, 01 Jan 2024 12:46:44 -0600 https://www.libertyfamily.org/bishir-blog/post/making-an-impact-in-2024
Those who have left the greatest impact on our world usually had one thing in common: 
 personal discipline!

People of impact are willing to do things that 
most people are unwilling to do.  They have 
become people of great 
self-discipline!
1. Impact people train their temperaments.  
They live by their Bible based convictions not their emotions. They live by faith not feelings.  People who do the right thing, even when they don't feel like it, accomplish most of what gets done in the world!

He that hath no rule over his own spirit is like a city that is broken down, and without walls.  Proverbs 25:28

2. Impact people tame their tongues.
They put their minds in gear before opening their mouths. They understand the tongue is a mighty power for both good and evil.  They understand the Lord gave them two ears and one tongue not two tongues and one ear.  Wise people listen more than they speak.

He that keepeth his mouth keepeth his life:  Proverbs 13:3

For in many things we offend all.  If any man offend not in word, the same is a perfect man, and able also to bridle the whole body.  James 3:2

3. Impact people tend their touchiness.
How fast can you be offended?  How soon do you lose your temper?  Unfortunately, a lot of potential influence can be cut short by having a short fuse.

Great peace have they which love thy law: and nothing shall offend them.  Psalm 119:165

He that is slow to anger is better than the mighty; and he that ruleth his spirit than he that taketh a city.  Proverbs 16:32

4. Impact people track their time.
If you don't determine how you will spend your time, you can be sure that others will decide for you.  The key to eternal success is to only be answerable to ONE MASTER calendar - JESUS.  You'll have to become a great steward of time to be successful in life.

Redeeming the time, because the days are evil.  Ephesians 5:16

Walk in wisdom toward them that are without, redeeming the time.  Colossians 4:5

5. Impact people trace their treasure.
They learn to live on less than what they make, and they invest the difference into savings or investments and give to causes that matter to God - causes like the Lord's church, missions, gospel sharing ministries, and sharing with others in need.  The value of a budget is that it tells your money where you want it to go rather than wondering where it went!

He becometh poor that dealeth with a slack hand: but the hand of the diligent maketh rich.  Proverbs 10:4

Honour the Lord with thy substance, and with the firstfruits of all thine increase:
So shall thy barns be filled with plenty, and thy presses shall burst out with new wine.  Proverbs 3:9-10

6. Impact people transform their temple.
They understand clearly that their bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit.  They develop habits in their eating, exercise, and rest that supplies energy to their physical life.  They also seek the mind of Christ which brings mental health.  That way, they can accomplish more and enjoy their achievements.

I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.
And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.  Romans 12:1-2

What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?
For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's.  1st Corinthians 6:19-20

Where do you need to develop self-control?
The disciplines we establish today will determine our Impact tomorrow.
But, it takes more than just willpower to produce lasting self-control.  It takes a power greater than our own.  It takes the power of God.
The more we accept God's control over our lives, the more self-control he gives to us.  The more 
self-control - the more eternal impact we will have on our family, communities, churches, and the world.

 

]]>
Those who have left the greatest impact on our world usually had one thing in common: 
 personal discipline!

People of impact are willing to do things that 
most people are unwilling to do.  They have 
become people of great 
self-discipline!
1. Impact people train their temperaments.  
They live by their Bible based convictions not their emotions. They live by faith not feelings.  People who do the right thing, even when they don't feel like it, accomplish most of what gets done in the world!

He that hath no rule over his own spirit is like a city that is broken down, and without walls.  Proverbs 25:28

2. Impact people tame their tongues.
They put their minds in gear before opening their mouths. They understand the tongue is a mighty power for both good and evil.  They understand the Lord gave them two ears and one tongue not two tongues and one ear.  Wise people listen more than they speak.

He that keepeth his mouth keepeth his life:  Proverbs 13:3

For in many things we offend all.  If any man offend not in word, the same is a perfect man, and able also to bridle the whole body.  James 3:2

3. Impact people tend their touchiness.
How fast can you be offended?  How soon do you lose your temper?  Unfortunately, a lot of potential influence can be cut short by having a short fuse.

Great peace have they which love thy law: and nothing shall offend them.  Psalm 119:165

He that is slow to anger is better than the mighty; and he that ruleth his spirit than he that taketh a city.  Proverbs 16:32

4. Impact people track their time.
If you don't determine how you will spend your time, you can be sure that others will decide for you.  The key to eternal success is to only be answerable to ONE MASTER calendar - JESUS.  You'll have to become a great steward of time to be successful in life.

Redeeming the time, because the days are evil.  Ephesians 5:16

Walk in wisdom toward them that are without, redeeming the time.  Colossians 4:5

5. Impact people trace their treasure.
They learn to live on less than what they make, and they invest the difference into savings or investments and give to causes that matter to God - causes like the Lord's church, missions, gospel sharing ministries, and sharing with others in need.  The value of a budget is that it tells your money where you want it to go rather than wondering where it went!

He becometh poor that dealeth with a slack hand: but the hand of the diligent maketh rich.  Proverbs 10:4

Honour the Lord with thy substance, and with the firstfruits of all thine increase:
So shall thy barns be filled with plenty, and thy presses shall burst out with new wine.  Proverbs 3:9-10

6. Impact people transform their temple.
They understand clearly that their bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit.  They develop habits in their eating, exercise, and rest that supplies energy to their physical life.  They also seek the mind of Christ which brings mental health.  That way, they can accomplish more and enjoy their achievements.

I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.
And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.  Romans 12:1-2

What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?
For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's.  1st Corinthians 6:19-20

Where do you need to develop self-control?
The disciplines we establish today will determine our Impact tomorrow.
But, it takes more than just willpower to produce lasting self-control.  It takes a power greater than our own.  It takes the power of God.
The more we accept God's control over our lives, the more self-control he gives to us.  The more 
self-control - the more eternal impact we will have on our family, communities, churches, and the world.

 

]]>
Living Godly in Babylon https://www.libertyfamily.org/bishir-blog/post/living-godly-in-babylon https://www.libertyfamily.org/bishir-blog/post/living-godly-in-babylon#comments Thu, 24 Aug 2023 10:54:12 -0500 https://www.libertyfamily.org/bishir-blog/post/living-godly-in-babylon  

This past Sunday evening we began a short seies from the book of Daniel. The first two messages will be from Daniel chapter one followed by a message from Daniel  chapter three on  "The Fiery Furnace" and two final messages from Daniel chapter six on " Daniel in the Lions Den".  We are giving the Title of the series as " Living Biblically in Babylon".  At age 70 I can testify that living in America is much different than it used to be. We have always lived in "Enemy Territory" but today our society is surely become more and more BABYLONIAN".  The enemy has always been about taking God's people and their children hostage and then attempting to conform us to begin living in ways that are extremely opposite of how God wants his children to live for his glory and our good.

Sunday evenings message was an important one,  and one which may profit us to hear again and again. I was so thankful we had many children and teens in the service. Perhaps each family will choose to listen at a family devotion time? 

The following link will take you to the message! May the Lord's Word be used greatly in rescuing us and ours from being taken captive and comformed to this world.  (Daniel 1:1-21 , Romans 1)

https://fb.watch/mDd7Z5j1gE/

This message is on Liberty Baptist Church Sweetser. Indiana  Facebook Page and will be posted on www.libertyfamily.org  under sermons . 

Preached Sunday Evening August 20, 2023

 

 

 

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This past Sunday evening we began a short seies from the book of Daniel. The first two messages will be from Daniel chapter one followed by a message from Daniel  chapter three on  "The Fiery Furnace" and two final messages from Daniel chapter six on " Daniel in the Lions Den".  We are giving the Title of the series as " Living Biblically in Babylon".  At age 70 I can testify that living in America is much different than it used to be. We have always lived in "Enemy Territory" but today our society is surely become more and more BABYLONIAN".  The enemy has always been about taking God's people and their children hostage and then attempting to conform us to begin living in ways that are extremely opposite of how God wants his children to live for his glory and our good.

Sunday evenings message was an important one,  and one which may profit us to hear again and again. I was so thankful we had many children and teens in the service. Perhaps each family will choose to listen at a family devotion time? 

The following link will take you to the message! May the Lord's Word be used greatly in rescuing us and ours from being taken captive and comformed to this world.  (Daniel 1:1-21 , Romans 1)

https://fb.watch/mDd7Z5j1gE/

This message is on Liberty Baptist Church Sweetser. Indiana  Facebook Page and will be posted on www.libertyfamily.org  under sermons . 

Preached Sunday Evening August 20, 2023

 

 

 

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The Battle Rages Within and Without ! https://www.libertyfamily.org/bishir-blog/post/the-battle-rages-within-and-without https://www.libertyfamily.org/bishir-blog/post/the-battle-rages-within-and-without#comments Tue, 18 Jul 2023 10:58:35 -0500 https://www.libertyfamily.org/bishir-blog/post/the-battle-rages-within-and-without THE BATTLE RAGES WITHIN AND WITHOUT!

 

The earth  has seen hundreds and hundreds of wars since sin entered into the world in the garden via Adam and Eve.  There have been local wars, regional wars, civil wars, and world wars. At any given moment of human history there has been wars rooted in government form, land squabbles, power hungry dictators, money and possessions, race prejudice and of course religion. These of course are not the only reasons for war but at the heart of war is just that, the heart.  Since the fall of man when sin entered into the world mans heart has been filled with hate, jealousy, greed and lust.  The book of James 4:1  teaches us that wars come from the evil desires that are within us. They are a result of falling to the temptation of the devil in the garden of Eden.  Ever since man has fought each other and will continue to do so until Jesus returns to destroy the Kingdom of this World and to set up the Kingdom of God!

Man at war is linked to a greater war that is raging and has since Lucifer was cast out of heaven and became Satan. That war is the WAR of the AGES! It is God against Satan, good against evil, darkness against light. This war has raged since the beginning of God's creation and will only conclude when Jesus destroys this world and casts Satan into the Lake of Fire. At the end of this world God will make a new earth, new heaven and new Jerusalem and  then there will be no more war.

Until that time each redeemed follower of Jesus Christ must understand clearly that they are in a 24 hour a day battle with the forces of darkness. We must determine to be Good Soldiers of Jesus Christ.  Our war is more than physical it is spiritual. We don't fight flesh and blood but principalities and powers of the spirit world.  It takes spiritual weapons to win spiritual battles. And our Lord has provided those weapons for his children to daily "put on" and be ready for the  skirmishes we will face.  Ephesians 6:10-20  presents the Armor of God which our Lord provides for our warfare. The purpose of this blog is not to teach on each piece of armor but to encourage you to have an personal study of this passage  sometime soon.   I want to encourage each reader to take the battle more seriously and to not lose your battles simply because you are failing to put on God's provisions for victory. We must realize the battle is raging and to not show up for the fight will only bring  disastrous defeat. And worse yet if we show up for the fight with the wrong weapons. I plead with you to prepare for war in God's way. Learn the spiritual discipline of praying on the armor of God each and every day! 

Prayer is so important to the believer soldier. S.D. Gordon once said, " Prayer strikes the winning blow and service is gathering up the results". Satan trembles when he sees the weakest christian on his knees. In fact Ephesians 6:18-20 teaches that the way we are to put on the armor is by praying it on. Prayer is the victory and the place of prayer is the place of victory. We will never know how many battles were won because of God's faithful people who have been on their knees in the closet of prayer. Think about  the Old Testament people of Israel.  Often they had less soldiers, not supreme weapons, not better strategies,  but when they prayed and leaned on God the Lord in answer to prayer came down and fought the battles for them and through them. Prayer is something we each can do no matter our ages and abilities. So much is at stake in this War of the Ages. May we get serious minded about being GOOD SOLDIERS!

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THE BATTLE RAGES WITHIN AND WITHOUT!

 

The earth  has seen hundreds and hundreds of wars since sin entered into the world in the garden via Adam and Eve.  There have been local wars, regional wars, civil wars, and world wars. At any given moment of human history there has been wars rooted in government form, land squabbles, power hungry dictators, money and possessions, race prejudice and of course religion. These of course are not the only reasons for war but at the heart of war is just that, the heart.  Since the fall of man when sin entered into the world mans heart has been filled with hate, jealousy, greed and lust.  The book of James 4:1  teaches us that wars come from the evil desires that are within us. They are a result of falling to the temptation of the devil in the garden of Eden.  Ever since man has fought each other and will continue to do so until Jesus returns to destroy the Kingdom of this World and to set up the Kingdom of God!

Man at war is linked to a greater war that is raging and has since Lucifer was cast out of heaven and became Satan. That war is the WAR of the AGES! It is God against Satan, good against evil, darkness against light. This war has raged since the beginning of God's creation and will only conclude when Jesus destroys this world and casts Satan into the Lake of Fire. At the end of this world God will make a new earth, new heaven and new Jerusalem and  then there will be no more war.

Until that time each redeemed follower of Jesus Christ must understand clearly that they are in a 24 hour a day battle with the forces of darkness. We must determine to be Good Soldiers of Jesus Christ.  Our war is more than physical it is spiritual. We don't fight flesh and blood but principalities and powers of the spirit world.  It takes spiritual weapons to win spiritual battles. And our Lord has provided those weapons for his children to daily "put on" and be ready for the  skirmishes we will face.  Ephesians 6:10-20  presents the Armor of God which our Lord provides for our warfare. The purpose of this blog is not to teach on each piece of armor but to encourage you to have an personal study of this passage  sometime soon.   I want to encourage each reader to take the battle more seriously and to not lose your battles simply because you are failing to put on God's provisions for victory. We must realize the battle is raging and to not show up for the fight will only bring  disastrous defeat. And worse yet if we show up for the fight with the wrong weapons. I plead with you to prepare for war in God's way. Learn the spiritual discipline of praying on the armor of God each and every day! 

Prayer is so important to the believer soldier. S.D. Gordon once said, " Prayer strikes the winning blow and service is gathering up the results". Satan trembles when he sees the weakest christian on his knees. In fact Ephesians 6:18-20 teaches that the way we are to put on the armor is by praying it on. Prayer is the victory and the place of prayer is the place of victory. We will never know how many battles were won because of God's faithful people who have been on their knees in the closet of prayer. Think about  the Old Testament people of Israel.  Often they had less soldiers, not supreme weapons, not better strategies,  but when they prayed and leaned on God the Lord in answer to prayer came down and fought the battles for them and through them. Prayer is something we each can do no matter our ages and abilities. So much is at stake in this War of the Ages. May we get serious minded about being GOOD SOLDIERS!

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Loving God Passionately https://www.libertyfamily.org/bishir-blog/post/loving-god-passionately https://www.libertyfamily.org/bishir-blog/post/loving-god-passionately#comments Thu, 22 Jun 2023 10:02:34 -0500 https://www.libertyfamily.org/bishir-blog/post/loving-god-passionately In (Exodus 20) we find the 10 Commandments. In verse 3 we find the First of the Ten.  It says, “ Thou shalt have no other gods before me”.  Jesus addressed this in the New Testament when one of the Pharisees asked Him a question, tempting Him, Master, what is the great commandment in the Law? Jesus quickly answered, “ Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself”.  (Matthew 22: 34-40). 

 

Does that mean it’s a sin to have a car, or a house, or clothes, or some money in the bank? Of course not. These verses teach us that we are not to love or give our first devotion to any other person, pleasure, possession or philosophy above Jesus Christ. 

 

It is not wrong to have a career, but it is wrong if your career has you. It is not wrong to have possessions, but it can be wrong if your possessions have you. It isn’t wrong to value our children but not over Christ. It is not wrong to enjoy a hobby, travel, sport, or entertainment, etc. Our FIRST real passion and obsession in life should be Christ. All these other things have their place—but not the most important place. Lord help us each to know the difference and to love you with ALL our hearts. 

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In (Exodus 20) we find the 10 Commandments. In verse 3 we find the First of the Ten.  It says, “ Thou shalt have no other gods before me”.  Jesus addressed this in the New Testament when one of the Pharisees asked Him a question, tempting Him, Master, what is the great commandment in the Law? Jesus quickly answered, “ Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself”.  (Matthew 22: 34-40). 

 

Does that mean it’s a sin to have a car, or a house, or clothes, or some money in the bank? Of course not. These verses teach us that we are not to love or give our first devotion to any other person, pleasure, possession or philosophy above Jesus Christ. 

 

It is not wrong to have a career, but it is wrong if your career has you. It is not wrong to have possessions, but it can be wrong if your possessions have you. It isn’t wrong to value our children but not over Christ. It is not wrong to enjoy a hobby, travel, sport, or entertainment, etc. Our FIRST real passion and obsession in life should be Christ. All these other things have their place—but not the most important place. Lord help us each to know the difference and to love you with ALL our hearts. 

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TOGETHER https://www.libertyfamily.org/bishir-blog/post/together https://www.libertyfamily.org/bishir-blog/post/together#comments Wed, 14 Jun 2023 13:58:01 -0500 https://www.libertyfamily.org/bishir-blog/post/together The following introduction remarks were written by my wife Karen some years ago as we were team teaching in a conference on partnership in marriage and ministry. In April of this year we celebrated 50 years of ministry together and last week 48 years of marriage together.  I want to share this to boast in Jesus and thank Karen for all the years TOGETHER! 

DISCOVERING THE POWER OF PARTNERSHIP

ECCLESIASTES 4:9, 10 “TWO ARE BETTER THAN ONE; BECAUSE THEY HAVE A GOOD REWARD FOR THEIR LABOUR. FOR IF THEY FALL, THE ONE WILL LIFT UP HIS FELLOW: BUT WOE TO HIM THAT IS ALONE WHEN HE FALLETH; FOR HE HATH NOT ANOTHER TO HELP HIM UP.”

We have been a “team” for many years together. Our paths crossed in a rather miraculous way and our subsequent dating, engagement, and marriage was God ordained as well. Terry first laid eyes on me when we were in the 8th grade. At first sight, he was impressed by “something” that this, indeed, was the girl he was going to marry. For this to happen, a direct intervention from God would absolutely have to occur. That intervention did occur in the form of a life-changing gift of salvation that was received as Terry approached his twentieth birthday. Our paths in life, to this point, were polar opposites. We did casually date in high school, and then in college, our friendship resurfaced. I invited him to church with me. On the second Sunday that he attended our little country church, the Holy Spirit brought great conviction to him and Terry gladly repented from his sin and turned to Christ.

Our relationship deepened and led us to a place of total commitment to one another in marriage. Even before this event, we served in our local church together. Terry’s idea of working on a Sunday School bus route together was for him to drive the car, pull up in front of a house with children who were potential riders, and suggest that I knock on the front door to invite these children to church. I was happy to oblige and we built a great route that way. As the years wore on, our roles, responsibilities, ministries, passions, and opportunities were constantly growing, changing, and adapting. Sometimes we served shoulder to shoulder and sometimes we used our giftedness in very unique and individual ways. WE FOUND THAT WE ALSO MINISTERED TO EACH OTHER BY FREEING THEM TO SERVE OTHERS WITH THEIR INDIVIDUAL GIFTEDNESS. THE RESULT BEING THE GLORY OF GOD AND THE GOOD OF MAN.

We have found that all of life is sacred. We may serve our Savior in visible ways that are geared toward ministries in our church. But we also serve Him together as we have reared our children and now help to inMluence our grandchildren for God’s kingdom. As we grow closer to God in our individual lives, we ultimately grow closer to one another.

There is great satisfaction in serving together. Spiritual growth is a very welcome added benefit. This, of course, does not happen automatically. Hebrews 10:24-25 states “And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the day drawing near.” Another by product is that the two of us have become best of friends. Don’t friends enjoy doing things together, sharing the achievement of common goals? Aren’t hearts knit together in intimate oneness that happens in no other way? This often causes two to partner in even more ways. The potential result is that our churches are strengthened, our neighborhoods are strengthened, and our communities are blessed with changed lives.

Synergy is achieved when two or more people work together to create a better solution than either could alone. The whole is greater than the sum of the parts. This is a beautiful picture of what happens when two individuals determine to combine their God-given talents and work together for the glory of His kingdom. Helen Keller said, “Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.” Sometime do a study of geese flying in a flock. It is astounding how God has equipped them to be so much more efficient and productive when they function in formation TOGETHER.

Though not deserved, Terry and I have been blessed in untold ways by our Father. Many of these blessings are a result of living life together with the same focus and purpose. We are able to provide for one another a sounding board and support. Proverbs 27:17 – “Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.” Our goal as a team that our loving Father orchestrated is found in Romans 15:5-6. “May the God of endurance and encouragement grant you to live in such harmony with one another, in accord with Christ Jesus, that together you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.”

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The following introduction remarks were written by my wife Karen some years ago as we were team teaching in a conference on partnership in marriage and ministry. In April of this year we celebrated 50 years of ministry together and last week 48 years of marriage together.  I want to share this to boast in Jesus and thank Karen for all the years TOGETHER! 

DISCOVERING THE POWER OF PARTNERSHIP

ECCLESIASTES 4:9, 10 “TWO ARE BETTER THAN ONE; BECAUSE THEY HAVE A GOOD REWARD FOR THEIR LABOUR. FOR IF THEY FALL, THE ONE WILL LIFT UP HIS FELLOW: BUT WOE TO HIM THAT IS ALONE WHEN HE FALLETH; FOR HE HATH NOT ANOTHER TO HELP HIM UP.”

We have been a “team” for many years together. Our paths crossed in a rather miraculous way and our subsequent dating, engagement, and marriage was God ordained as well. Terry first laid eyes on me when we were in the 8th grade. At first sight, he was impressed by “something” that this, indeed, was the girl he was going to marry. For this to happen, a direct intervention from God would absolutely have to occur. That intervention did occur in the form of a life-changing gift of salvation that was received as Terry approached his twentieth birthday. Our paths in life, to this point, were polar opposites. We did casually date in high school, and then in college, our friendship resurfaced. I invited him to church with me. On the second Sunday that he attended our little country church, the Holy Spirit brought great conviction to him and Terry gladly repented from his sin and turned to Christ.

Our relationship deepened and led us to a place of total commitment to one another in marriage. Even before this event, we served in our local church together. Terry’s idea of working on a Sunday School bus route together was for him to drive the car, pull up in front of a house with children who were potential riders, and suggest that I knock on the front door to invite these children to church. I was happy to oblige and we built a great route that way. As the years wore on, our roles, responsibilities, ministries, passions, and opportunities were constantly growing, changing, and adapting. Sometimes we served shoulder to shoulder and sometimes we used our giftedness in very unique and individual ways. WE FOUND THAT WE ALSO MINISTERED TO EACH OTHER BY FREEING THEM TO SERVE OTHERS WITH THEIR INDIVIDUAL GIFTEDNESS. THE RESULT BEING THE GLORY OF GOD AND THE GOOD OF MAN.

We have found that all of life is sacred. We may serve our Savior in visible ways that are geared toward ministries in our church. But we also serve Him together as we have reared our children and now help to inMluence our grandchildren for God’s kingdom. As we grow closer to God in our individual lives, we ultimately grow closer to one another.

There is great satisfaction in serving together. Spiritual growth is a very welcome added benefit. This, of course, does not happen automatically. Hebrews 10:24-25 states “And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the day drawing near.” Another by product is that the two of us have become best of friends. Don’t friends enjoy doing things together, sharing the achievement of common goals? Aren’t hearts knit together in intimate oneness that happens in no other way? This often causes two to partner in even more ways. The potential result is that our churches are strengthened, our neighborhoods are strengthened, and our communities are blessed with changed lives.

Synergy is achieved when two or more people work together to create a better solution than either could alone. The whole is greater than the sum of the parts. This is a beautiful picture of what happens when two individuals determine to combine their God-given talents and work together for the glory of His kingdom. Helen Keller said, “Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.” Sometime do a study of geese flying in a flock. It is astounding how God has equipped them to be so much more efficient and productive when they function in formation TOGETHER.

Though not deserved, Terry and I have been blessed in untold ways by our Father. Many of these blessings are a result of living life together with the same focus and purpose. We are able to provide for one another a sounding board and support. Proverbs 27:17 – “Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.” Our goal as a team that our loving Father orchestrated is found in Romans 15:5-6. “May the God of endurance and encouragement grant you to live in such harmony with one another, in accord with Christ Jesus, that together you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.”

]]>
Impacting Lives https://www.libertyfamily.org/bishir-blog/post/impacting-lives https://www.libertyfamily.org/bishir-blog/post/impacting-lives#comments Wed, 14 Jun 2023 13:08:54 -0500 https://www.libertyfamily.org/bishir-blog/post/impacting-lives
Those who have left the greatest impact on our world usually had one thing in common: 
 personal discipline!

People of impact are willing to do things that 
most people are unwilling to do.  They have 
become people of great 
self-discipline!
1. Impact people train their temperaments.  
They live by their Bible based convictions not their emotions. They live by faith not feelings.  People who do the right thing, even when they don't feel like it, accomplish most of what gets done in the world!

He that hath no rule over his own spirit is like a city that is broken down, and without walls.  Proverbs 25:28

2. Impact people tame their tongues.
They put their minds in gear before opening their mouths. They understand the tongue is a mighty power for both good and evil.  They understand the Lord gave them two ears and one tongue not two tongues and one ear.  Wise people listen more than they speak.

He that keepeth his mouth keepeth his life:  Proverbs 13:3

For in many things we offend all.  If any man offend not in word, the same is a perfect man, and able also to bridle the whole body.  James 3:2

3. Impact people tend their touchiness.
How fast can you be offended?  How soon do you lose your temper?  Unfortunately, a lot of potential influence can be cut short by having a short fuse.

Great peace have they which love thy law: and nothing shall offend them.  Psalm 119:165

He that is slow to anger is better than the mighty; and he that ruleth his spirit than he that taketh a city.  Proverbs 16:32

4. Impact people track their time.
If you don't determine how you will spend your time, you can be sure that others will decide for you.  The key to eternal success is to only be answerable to ONE MASTER calendar - JESUS.  You'll have to become a great steward of time to be successful in life.

Redeeming the time, because the days are evil.  Ephesians 5:16

Walk in wisdom toward them that are without, redeeming the time.  Colossians 4:5

5. Impact people trace their treasure.
They learn to live on less than what they make, and they invest the difference into savings or investments and give to causes that matter to God - causes like the Lord's church, missions, gospel sharing ministries, and sharing with others in need.  The value of a budget is that it tells your money where you want it to go rather than wondering where it went!

He becometh poor that dealeth with a slack hand: but the hand of the diligent maketh rich.  Proverbs 10:4

Honour the Lord with thy substance, and with the firstfruits of all thine increase:
So shall thy barns be filled with plenty, and thy presses shall burst out with new wine.  Proverbs 3:9-10

6. Impact people transform their temple.
They understand clearly that their bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit.  They develop habits in their eating, exercise, and rest that supplies energy to their physical life.  They also seek the mind of Christ which brings mental health.  That way, they can accomplish more and enjoy their achievements.

I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.
And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.  Romans 12:1-2

What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?
For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's.  1st Corinthians 6:19-20

Where do you need to develop self-control?
The disciplines we establish today will determine our Impact tomorrow.
But, it takes more than just willpower to produce lasting self-control.  It takes a power greater than our own.  It takes the power of God.
The more we accept God's control over our lives, the more self-control he gives to us.  The more 
self-control - the more eternal impact we will have on our family, communities, churches, and the world.
 
]]>
Those who have left the greatest impact on our world usually had one thing in common: 
 personal discipline!

People of impact are willing to do things that 
most people are unwilling to do.  They have 
become people of great 
self-discipline!
1. Impact people train their temperaments.  
They live by their Bible based convictions not their emotions. They live by faith not feelings.  People who do the right thing, even when they don't feel like it, accomplish most of what gets done in the world!

He that hath no rule over his own spirit is like a city that is broken down, and without walls.  Proverbs 25:28

2. Impact people tame their tongues.
They put their minds in gear before opening their mouths. They understand the tongue is a mighty power for both good and evil.  They understand the Lord gave them two ears and one tongue not two tongues and one ear.  Wise people listen more than they speak.

He that keepeth his mouth keepeth his life:  Proverbs 13:3

For in many things we offend all.  If any man offend not in word, the same is a perfect man, and able also to bridle the whole body.  James 3:2

3. Impact people tend their touchiness.
How fast can you be offended?  How soon do you lose your temper?  Unfortunately, a lot of potential influence can be cut short by having a short fuse.

Great peace have they which love thy law: and nothing shall offend them.  Psalm 119:165

He that is slow to anger is better than the mighty; and he that ruleth his spirit than he that taketh a city.  Proverbs 16:32

4. Impact people track their time.
If you don't determine how you will spend your time, you can be sure that others will decide for you.  The key to eternal success is to only be answerable to ONE MASTER calendar - JESUS.  You'll have to become a great steward of time to be successful in life.

Redeeming the time, because the days are evil.  Ephesians 5:16

Walk in wisdom toward them that are without, redeeming the time.  Colossians 4:5

5. Impact people trace their treasure.
They learn to live on less than what they make, and they invest the difference into savings or investments and give to causes that matter to God - causes like the Lord's church, missions, gospel sharing ministries, and sharing with others in need.  The value of a budget is that it tells your money where you want it to go rather than wondering where it went!

He becometh poor that dealeth with a slack hand: but the hand of the diligent maketh rich.  Proverbs 10:4

Honour the Lord with thy substance, and with the firstfruits of all thine increase:
So shall thy barns be filled with plenty, and thy presses shall burst out with new wine.  Proverbs 3:9-10

6. Impact people transform their temple.
They understand clearly that their bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit.  They develop habits in their eating, exercise, and rest that supplies energy to their physical life.  They also seek the mind of Christ which brings mental health.  That way, they can accomplish more and enjoy their achievements.

I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.
And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.  Romans 12:1-2

What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?
For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's.  1st Corinthians 6:19-20

Where do you need to develop self-control?
The disciplines we establish today will determine our Impact tomorrow.
But, it takes more than just willpower to produce lasting self-control.  It takes a power greater than our own.  It takes the power of God.
The more we accept God's control over our lives, the more self-control he gives to us.  The more 
self-control - the more eternal impact we will have on our family, communities, churches, and the world.
 
]]>
PLEASE !! https://www.libertyfamily.org/bishir-blog/post/please https://www.libertyfamily.org/bishir-blog/post/please#comments Mon, 17 Apr 2023 15:10:43 -0500 https://www.libertyfamily.org/bishir-blog/post/please It is only reasonable to believe that I am not the only christian, pastor, parent, grandparent, citizen who is asking the Lord to PLEASE SEND REVIVAL to HIS PEOPLE. Steven Olford says "Revival is an invasion from heaven which brings a concious awareness of God".  Robert Coleman gives a definition of revival as " That soverign work of God in which God visits his own people restoring and releasing into the fullness of his blessing".  Vance Havner gives one of my favorite descriptions of revival - " Revival is the church falling in love with Jesus all over again".  In Acts 3:19 the Apostle Peter gives a promise to the Lords church in that " Seasons of refreashing will come to us from the presence of the Lord". 

Revival is for God's people and we desperately need it in our lives, homes, churches and nation. Our present day situation is growing darker moment by moment in both the physical and spiritual realm. What is taking place in many christian families and churches is horrific. And without the Lords merciful sending revival to our hearts there seems little hope. But the Lord is almighty and is able to turn things around for our good and his glory. 

Our present day is much likened to the days of Samuel in 1st Samuel chapter 7. The People of Israel were doing what seemed right in their own eyes and they were in a terrible condition. Worst than we might think and I think our present condtion is worst than we might think. The Lord had allowed and orchestrated a long time of hard days and spirtitual drought. To study the first 6 chapters in 1st Samuel good idea of how difficult these days had become and how displeased God had become with his people. The Lord had ceased manifesting himself to his people as well as protecting and providing for them. WHY - because in his mercy he is allowing these circumstances to bring them back to himself so he may revive them. 

1st Samuel 7 can be outlined as the following :

I. The Drought before the Rain. (1-2)

" There will always be spiritual drought in the land before God will send revival"

II. The Sorrow before Joy. ( 2b)

" God gets our attention with sorrow- Godly Sorrow works our repentance."

III. The Requirements before Revival. ( 3 )

" God's revival has conditional promise"    

A. Return to the Lord with all your heart.

B. Remove foreign gods ( idols) from amound you.

C. Redirect your hearts. 

D. Recommit to serving the Lord. 

IV.  The Obedience before Blessing. (4-6)

" We obey by confessing our sin, surrendering our lives and fasting in prayer"

V. The Opposition before the Victory. (7)

"Revival is always opposed by self, sin and satan, revival never comes easy". 

VI. The Prayer before Power.  (7-9)

" Revival always involves prayer". 

VII. The Results of the Revival. (10-17)

A. The enemies were defeated. 

B. God's provisions were acknowledged.

C. Gods protection was reactivated.

D. God's property was restored. 

E. God's peace was pervasive.

F. God's people were cared for. 

God sent revival to Israel in a day that looked like there was no hope. But in God's mercy God revived his people in spite of the circumstances. He can do the same today for his church if we meet the conditions. Even if we are in the last days just before the rapture of the church and our nation does not return to the Lord. May Jesus send daily revival to each of us and when he returns may he find us red hot ( not lukewarm) and ready. 

 

If you want to study 1st Samuel chapter 7 in its fullest go to  libertyfamily.org  and click on sermons and listen to  Part 1 & 2  of my messages entited "Revival under Samuel."  These messages part of  the " After Gods Heart", a study of 1st Samuel series . 

 

 

 

 

 

]]>
It is only reasonable to believe that I am not the only christian, pastor, parent, grandparent, citizen who is asking the Lord to PLEASE SEND REVIVAL to HIS PEOPLE. Steven Olford says "Revival is an invasion from heaven which brings a concious awareness of God".  Robert Coleman gives a definition of revival as " That soverign work of God in which God visits his own people restoring and releasing into the fullness of his blessing".  Vance Havner gives one of my favorite descriptions of revival - " Revival is the church falling in love with Jesus all over again".  In Acts 3:19 the Apostle Peter gives a promise to the Lords church in that " Seasons of refreashing will come to us from the presence of the Lord". 

Revival is for God's people and we desperately need it in our lives, homes, churches and nation. Our present day situation is growing darker moment by moment in both the physical and spiritual realm. What is taking place in many christian families and churches is horrific. And without the Lords merciful sending revival to our hearts there seems little hope. But the Lord is almighty and is able to turn things around for our good and his glory. 

Our present day is much likened to the days of Samuel in 1st Samuel chapter 7. The People of Israel were doing what seemed right in their own eyes and they were in a terrible condition. Worst than we might think and I think our present condtion is worst than we might think. The Lord had allowed and orchestrated a long time of hard days and spirtitual drought. To study the first 6 chapters in 1st Samuel good idea of how difficult these days had become and how displeased God had become with his people. The Lord had ceased manifesting himself to his people as well as protecting and providing for them. WHY - because in his mercy he is allowing these circumstances to bring them back to himself so he may revive them. 

1st Samuel 7 can be outlined as the following :

I. The Drought before the Rain. (1-2)

" There will always be spiritual drought in the land before God will send revival"

II. The Sorrow before Joy. ( 2b)

" God gets our attention with sorrow- Godly Sorrow works our repentance."

III. The Requirements before Revival. ( 3 )

" God's revival has conditional promise"    

A. Return to the Lord with all your heart.

B. Remove foreign gods ( idols) from amound you.

C. Redirect your hearts. 

D. Recommit to serving the Lord. 

IV.  The Obedience before Blessing. (4-6)

" We obey by confessing our sin, surrendering our lives and fasting in prayer"

V. The Opposition before the Victory. (7)

"Revival is always opposed by self, sin and satan, revival never comes easy". 

VI. The Prayer before Power.  (7-9)

" Revival always involves prayer". 

VII. The Results of the Revival. (10-17)

A. The enemies were defeated. 

B. God's provisions were acknowledged.

C. Gods protection was reactivated.

D. God's property was restored. 

E. God's peace was pervasive.

F. God's people were cared for. 

God sent revival to Israel in a day that looked like there was no hope. But in God's mercy God revived his people in spite of the circumstances. He can do the same today for his church if we meet the conditions. Even if we are in the last days just before the rapture of the church and our nation does not return to the Lord. May Jesus send daily revival to each of us and when he returns may he find us red hot ( not lukewarm) and ready. 

 

If you want to study 1st Samuel chapter 7 in its fullest go to  libertyfamily.org  and click on sermons and listen to  Part 1 & 2  of my messages entited "Revival under Samuel."  These messages part of  the " After Gods Heart", a study of 1st Samuel series . 

 

 

 

 

 

]]>
Safe and Secure https://www.libertyfamily.org/bishir-blog/post/safe-and-secure https://www.libertyfamily.org/bishir-blog/post/safe-and-secure#comments Wed, 12 Apr 2023 09:40:56 -0500 https://www.libertyfamily.org/bishir-blog/post/safe-and-secure The Apostle Peter in his first epistle writes to early persecuted Christians who have been driven from their homeland into other parts of the world. Even there they are in hostile territory. Peter writes to remind them that they have a great hope in the living Christ in such testing.  Let me give you a helpful outline for the first 9 verses of chapter  one of 1st Peter.

I. We live in the hope of earthly placement & purpose. (1:1)

II We live in the hope of everlasting love. (1:2)

III. We live in the hope of eternal security. (1:3)

IV. We live in the hope of incredible riches. (1:4-5)

V. We live in the hope of purposeful testing. (1:6-7)

VI. We live in the hope of expectant joy. (1:8-9)

In these verses are so much practical truths to help believers to remember that the Lord is working all things out in his salvation work for us and others. God is at work and He offers all we need to remain faithful to him even when the world is not friendly to us, our way of life and our leader Jesus Christ. 

These verses are so packed with doctrinal truth but for today i want us to take a brief look at the third point found in 1st Peter 1:3.  We LIVE in HOPE of ETERNAL SECURITY!  We are secure even in hostile territory. And our security comes from the nature of salvation. Salvation begins with God and ends with God. Man can not provide it in any part. The word salvation means to be delivered. Delivered from the payment of sin (physical, spiritual & eternal death)., the power of sin, and after this earthly life the presence of sin.  In verse 1 we find God the Father planned salvation, God the Spirit performs salvation and God the Son purchased salvation. In verse 3 we find some of the nature of salvation which is the very nature of God. 

God's Mercy - begins the work of God's salvation.  You may ask what is mercy? Let me give you a simple description. The mercy of God is He does not give what we deserve. What do we deserve as sinners? Eternal Death in Hell.  The grace of God is different, the grace of God is He gives what we don't deserve. He gives salvation to repentant sinners who recieve his great gift.  To live in God's security we must understand that salvation is not on our own merit, salvation is by God's mercy alone. God mercifully sent his Son, to live, die and arise for sins payment. Mercy in it's very desciption is mercy.  It is a gift and will never be withdrawn because of a lack of merit because it was never given on behalf of our merit. How do we recieve mercy and how do we keep mercy?  It is a gift of God so mercy saves and keeps us.  

Begotten Us Again- In verse 3 the Holy Spirit wants us to know salvation is all of mercy which  "Borns Again". We read much about this in John's gospel. Jesus said to Nicodemus " Ye must be born again". Meaning born of the spirit. Born from above. Spiritually quickened and brought to spiritual and eternal life. Here in 1st Peter 1:3 the word begotten in the original  language is in the tense which means when you were born again, it was a once and for all event. It has happened, it will continue to happen and it will always happen. God has rebirthed his believers and forever makes us " Lively Hopes " How many times can a human be born physically?  The answer is ONCE. How may times can a person be born? The answer is the same, ONCE! You will not find a person born more than once physically and in the scripture you will not find one person born twice again spiritually. 

When we are saved and God begins His work of salvation in us we are saved by ABUNDANT MERCY and BIRTHED from ABOVE by the LIVING LORD unto a LIVELY HOPE by the .........

RESURRECTION of JESUS- Salvation is sealed by the great power of the resurrection of Jesus Christ who arose from the dead. We are safe and secure in Christ's  almighty power.  Hebrews 7:25 says " Wherefore He is able to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by Him seeing He EVER LIVETH to make intercession for them".  In John 17 we find the high priestly prayer of Jesus and we find Him praying for his present disciiples and for his future disciples (us) as well. He prays for our saftey, security and salvation to come to completion. Jesus always gets His prayers answered! From this we learn that the only way a genuine repentant sinner who by faith has recieved God's merciful and gracious salvation could lose their salvation is if the resurrected Jesus dies.  And that is not going to happen. HE EVER LIVES so we will ever live. 

Now that give us security found in truth which is our constant hope in this life.  Let us rejoice in such and live in surrender to the ONE who provides our complete salvation.  

 

 

 

]]>
The Apostle Peter in his first epistle writes to early persecuted Christians who have been driven from their homeland into other parts of the world. Even there they are in hostile territory. Peter writes to remind them that they have a great hope in the living Christ in such testing.  Let me give you a helpful outline for the first 9 verses of chapter  one of 1st Peter.

I. We live in the hope of earthly placement & purpose. (1:1)

II We live in the hope of everlasting love. (1:2)

III. We live in the hope of eternal security. (1:3)

IV. We live in the hope of incredible riches. (1:4-5)

V. We live in the hope of purposeful testing. (1:6-7)

VI. We live in the hope of expectant joy. (1:8-9)

In these verses are so much practical truths to help believers to remember that the Lord is working all things out in his salvation work for us and others. God is at work and He offers all we need to remain faithful to him even when the world is not friendly to us, our way of life and our leader Jesus Christ. 

These verses are so packed with doctrinal truth but for today i want us to take a brief look at the third point found in 1st Peter 1:3.  We LIVE in HOPE of ETERNAL SECURITY!  We are secure even in hostile territory. And our security comes from the nature of salvation. Salvation begins with God and ends with God. Man can not provide it in any part. The word salvation means to be delivered. Delivered from the payment of sin (physical, spiritual & eternal death)., the power of sin, and after this earthly life the presence of sin.  In verse 1 we find God the Father planned salvation, God the Spirit performs salvation and God the Son purchased salvation. In verse 3 we find some of the nature of salvation which is the very nature of God. 

God's Mercy - begins the work of God's salvation.  You may ask what is mercy? Let me give you a simple description. The mercy of God is He does not give what we deserve. What do we deserve as sinners? Eternal Death in Hell.  The grace of God is different, the grace of God is He gives what we don't deserve. He gives salvation to repentant sinners who recieve his great gift.  To live in God's security we must understand that salvation is not on our own merit, salvation is by God's mercy alone. God mercifully sent his Son, to live, die and arise for sins payment. Mercy in it's very desciption is mercy.  It is a gift and will never be withdrawn because of a lack of merit because it was never given on behalf of our merit. How do we recieve mercy and how do we keep mercy?  It is a gift of God so mercy saves and keeps us.  

Begotten Us Again- In verse 3 the Holy Spirit wants us to know salvation is all of mercy which  "Borns Again". We read much about this in John's gospel. Jesus said to Nicodemus " Ye must be born again". Meaning born of the spirit. Born from above. Spiritually quickened and brought to spiritual and eternal life. Here in 1st Peter 1:3 the word begotten in the original  language is in the tense which means when you were born again, it was a once and for all event. It has happened, it will continue to happen and it will always happen. God has rebirthed his believers and forever makes us " Lively Hopes " How many times can a human be born physically?  The answer is ONCE. How may times can a person be born? The answer is the same, ONCE! You will not find a person born more than once physically and in the scripture you will not find one person born twice again spiritually. 

When we are saved and God begins His work of salvation in us we are saved by ABUNDANT MERCY and BIRTHED from ABOVE by the LIVING LORD unto a LIVELY HOPE by the .........

RESURRECTION of JESUS- Salvation is sealed by the great power of the resurrection of Jesus Christ who arose from the dead. We are safe and secure in Christ's  almighty power.  Hebrews 7:25 says " Wherefore He is able to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by Him seeing He EVER LIVETH to make intercession for them".  In John 17 we find the high priestly prayer of Jesus and we find Him praying for his present disciiples and for his future disciples (us) as well. He prays for our saftey, security and salvation to come to completion. Jesus always gets His prayers answered! From this we learn that the only way a genuine repentant sinner who by faith has recieved God's merciful and gracious salvation could lose their salvation is if the resurrected Jesus dies.  And that is not going to happen. HE EVER LIVES so we will ever live. 

Now that give us security found in truth which is our constant hope in this life.  Let us rejoice in such and live in surrender to the ONE who provides our complete salvation.  

 

 

 

]]>
March 16, 2020 - Challenges in a Challenging Time https://www.libertyfamily.org/bishir-blog/post/march-16-2020-challenges-in-a-challenging-time https://www.libertyfamily.org/bishir-blog/post/march-16-2020-challenges-in-a-challenging-time#comments Mon, 16 Mar 2020 10:00:00 -0500 https://www.libertyfamily.org/bishir-blog/post/march-16-2020-challenges-in-a-challenging-time The events of the last several weeks have reminded us that we live in an increasingly unstable and insecure world. Humanity can become very fearful, very fast. The fact is humans living in fear are apt to produce damaging and dangerous events. I want to encourage all who read this blog particularly Christ followers to practice peace not panic. Our Lord purchased peace for us on the cross, Ephesians 2:13-14, Colossians 1:19-20. The way to overcome panic is to appropriate the peace our Lord offers. Yesterday's morning message was entitled, PANIC OR PEACE? If you would like to listen again or the first time, you may do so at www.libertyfamily.org, Liberty's facebook page or our podcast. The following is some final points given at the end of the message. Hope these help us each to practice Peace and not Panic!

1. BE MINDFUL.

Remember we have always lived in an unstable world but our confidence and trust is only found in the sovereignty of God. God reigns over everything and has predetermined that which is good for all His kingdom. Romans 8:28-32

2. BE PEACEFUL.

For those of you who may be anxious because current events, remember the words of Isaiah 26:3- 4 “Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusted in thee. Trust ye in the Lord for ever.”

Live in the facts of the truth of God’s Word. Live in the fullness of the Spirit. Feed yourself less of the worlds wisdom and more of God’s wisdom. Live in peace of God. Colossians 3:15, Philippians 7:7

3. BE CAREFUL.

Watch out for yourself and your families physical health. But don’t fail to care for emotional, mental, and spiritual sides of heath as well. Be discerning that in that in attempting to solve one problem we can create many others. Lead your your family and friends to real solutions that will help. Calmness leads to answers. Panic to additional problems.

4. BE SHAREFUL.

Share truth with others. Share the reason for the hope and peace that is within you. Help other Christians with the truths that are giving you peace and above all else look for divine opportunities to share the gospel. This are difficult days for every citizen on this earth. The Lord is using these events to draw untold numbers of people to Himself. Look around and don’t miss divine your opportunities.

5. BE HELPFUL.

Serve others don’t just serve yourself. When people panic they become self focused and look to take care of themselves and their own. There is wisdom in taking precautions but at the same time believers are called to risk our lives for others. JEUS DID ! Don’t take the last loaf of bread if you really don’t need it. Think of others. Those who live in peace won’t panic and become selfish. They remain calm and make good decisions for themselves and others. Martin Luther stayed in his city while many others left because of the Bubonic Plague. He calmly risked his life for the good of others. Be led of the Spirit of God.

6. BE FAITHFUL.

In times of tremendous danger and difficulties we must remember we are always taking a test and being tempted. Tested by our Lord and tempted by the Satan. Tested to live by faith or by fear. Will we be faithful to the Lord at these times or will we fall to temptation and obey our emotions .

7. BE WATCHFUL.

Luke 21:28 “ When these things begin to come to pass, then look up, and lift up your heads; for your redemption draweth nigh”. II Timothy 3:1-13 tells us that in the Last Days perilous times will come. What we are witnessing could very well be connected to what is to happen on this earth just before the rapture of the church ad the beginning of the Tribulation Period on this earth. We very well could be witnessing “ Birth Pangs” of the earth, Matthew 24:28. Our Lord is gracious and merciful as He warns this world of coming judgement and gives time to run to His mercy found in Jesus. For the unbeliever we pray they will come to the Lord Jesus Christ and for those of us who are already followers of Jesus this should be a time of drawing closer.

8. BE PRAYERFUL.

Pray for ourselves and our families. Pray for your Christian brothers and sisters in your church and around the world. Pray for missionaries who are facing their own unique set of trials because of world events. Pray for our world, national, and local leaders. Pray for the health officials and all who are helping in the medical arenas. Pray for all the caregivers and sick around the world. Pray for the Pastors and other spiritual leaders as to attempt to lead God’s people into the way the Lord would want his people to go. PRAY, PRAY, PRAY!

9. BE GRACEFUL.

In all you do be gracious to others in this hour. Everyone is under stress and heavy burden. As we sprinkle doses of grace along the way it will be refreshing for all who receive actions and attitudes of grace. Slow down, Be kind and considerate of others. Speak words that are positive, truthful and filled with hope. Talk about JESUS.

10. BE GRATEFUL.

What a great time to worship the True and Living God. Praise Him for all He has done, is doing and will do throughout eternity. Jesus never receives the praise He is due. Praise Him in the midst of these days and as the song says “ Things of earth will grow strangely dim in the light of His glorious grace “.



TURN YOUR EYES UPON JESUS

O soul are you weary and troubled?
No light in the darkness you see?
There's light for a look at the Savior
And life more abundant and free
Turn you eyes upon Jesus
Look full in His wonderful face
And the things of earth will grow strangely dim
In the light of His glory and grace

Through death into life everlasting
He passed, and we follow Him there
Over us sin no more hath dominion
For more than conquerors we are
And turn your eyes upon Jesus
Look full in His wonderful face
And the things of earth will grow strangely dim
In the light of His glory and grace

His word shall not fail you, He promised
Believe Him and all will be well
Then go to a world that is dying
His perfect salvation to tell
And turn your eyes upon Jesus
Look full in His wonderful face
And the things of earth will grow strangely dim
In the light of His glory and grace
And the things of earth will grow strangely dim
In the light of His glory and grace

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The events of the last several weeks have reminded us that we live in an increasingly unstable and insecure world. Humanity can become very fearful, very fast. The fact is humans living in fear are apt to produce damaging and dangerous events. I want to encourage all who read this blog particularly Christ followers to practice peace not panic. Our Lord purchased peace for us on the cross, Ephesians 2:13-14, Colossians 1:19-20. The way to overcome panic is to appropriate the peace our Lord offers. Yesterday's morning message was entitled, PANIC OR PEACE? If you would like to listen again or the first time, you may do so at www.libertyfamily.org, Liberty's facebook page or our podcast. The following is some final points given at the end of the message. Hope these help us each to practice Peace and not Panic!

1. BE MINDFUL.

Remember we have always lived in an unstable world but our confidence and trust is only found in the sovereignty of God. God reigns over everything and has predetermined that which is good for all His kingdom. Romans 8:28-32

2. BE PEACEFUL.

For those of you who may be anxious because current events, remember the words of Isaiah 26:3- 4 “Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusted in thee. Trust ye in the Lord for ever.”

Live in the facts of the truth of God’s Word. Live in the fullness of the Spirit. Feed yourself less of the worlds wisdom and more of God’s wisdom. Live in peace of God. Colossians 3:15, Philippians 7:7

3. BE CAREFUL.

Watch out for yourself and your families physical health. But don’t fail to care for emotional, mental, and spiritual sides of heath as well. Be discerning that in that in attempting to solve one problem we can create many others. Lead your your family and friends to real solutions that will help. Calmness leads to answers. Panic to additional problems.

4. BE SHAREFUL.

Share truth with others. Share the reason for the hope and peace that is within you. Help other Christians with the truths that are giving you peace and above all else look for divine opportunities to share the gospel. This are difficult days for every citizen on this earth. The Lord is using these events to draw untold numbers of people to Himself. Look around and don’t miss divine your opportunities.

5. BE HELPFUL.

Serve others don’t just serve yourself. When people panic they become self focused and look to take care of themselves and their own. There is wisdom in taking precautions but at the same time believers are called to risk our lives for others. JEUS DID ! Don’t take the last loaf of bread if you really don’t need it. Think of others. Those who live in peace won’t panic and become selfish. They remain calm and make good decisions for themselves and others. Martin Luther stayed in his city while many others left because of the Bubonic Plague. He calmly risked his life for the good of others. Be led of the Spirit of God.

6. BE FAITHFUL.

In times of tremendous danger and difficulties we must remember we are always taking a test and being tempted. Tested by our Lord and tempted by the Satan. Tested to live by faith or by fear. Will we be faithful to the Lord at these times or will we fall to temptation and obey our emotions .

7. BE WATCHFUL.

Luke 21:28 “ When these things begin to come to pass, then look up, and lift up your heads; for your redemption draweth nigh”. II Timothy 3:1-13 tells us that in the Last Days perilous times will come. What we are witnessing could very well be connected to what is to happen on this earth just before the rapture of the church ad the beginning of the Tribulation Period on this earth. We very well could be witnessing “ Birth Pangs” of the earth, Matthew 24:28. Our Lord is gracious and merciful as He warns this world of coming judgement and gives time to run to His mercy found in Jesus. For the unbeliever we pray they will come to the Lord Jesus Christ and for those of us who are already followers of Jesus this should be a time of drawing closer.

8. BE PRAYERFUL.

Pray for ourselves and our families. Pray for your Christian brothers and sisters in your church and around the world. Pray for missionaries who are facing their own unique set of trials because of world events. Pray for our world, national, and local leaders. Pray for the health officials and all who are helping in the medical arenas. Pray for all the caregivers and sick around the world. Pray for the Pastors and other spiritual leaders as to attempt to lead God’s people into the way the Lord would want his people to go. PRAY, PRAY, PRAY!

9. BE GRACEFUL.

In all you do be gracious to others in this hour. Everyone is under stress and heavy burden. As we sprinkle doses of grace along the way it will be refreshing for all who receive actions and attitudes of grace. Slow down, Be kind and considerate of others. Speak words that are positive, truthful and filled with hope. Talk about JESUS.

10. BE GRATEFUL.

What a great time to worship the True and Living God. Praise Him for all He has done, is doing and will do throughout eternity. Jesus never receives the praise He is due. Praise Him in the midst of these days and as the song says “ Things of earth will grow strangely dim in the light of His glorious grace “.



TURN YOUR EYES UPON JESUS

O soul are you weary and troubled?
No light in the darkness you see?
There's light for a look at the Savior
And life more abundant and free
Turn you eyes upon Jesus
Look full in His wonderful face
And the things of earth will grow strangely dim
In the light of His glory and grace

Through death into life everlasting
He passed, and we follow Him there
Over us sin no more hath dominion
For more than conquerors we are
And turn your eyes upon Jesus
Look full in His wonderful face
And the things of earth will grow strangely dim
In the light of His glory and grace

His word shall not fail you, He promised
Believe Him and all will be well
Then go to a world that is dying
His perfect salvation to tell
And turn your eyes upon Jesus
Look full in His wonderful face
And the things of earth will grow strangely dim
In the light of His glory and grace
And the things of earth will grow strangely dim
In the light of His glory and grace

]]>