Category: Devotionals Page 3 of 51

Captain of Their Salvation

On November 15, 2024

During these end times, I’m keeping in mind that my heart needs to stay on fire for Christ, the Captain of MY salvation! Praise the Lord for today’s name for Jesus! Is He the Captain of your salvation? One can be saved and not have Him as their Captain. Who rules over you – Your flesh or Jesus? I speak to myself here as well. So many times I have moved forward with something without seeking the Captain’s thoughts. We can find His thoughts in the scriptures, amen?

Heb 2:10 For it became him, for whom are all things, and by whom are all things, in bringing many sons unto glory, to make the captain of their salvation perfect through sufferings.

A captain commands a company of soldiers. These soldiers do not do anything of their own free will but obey the commands of their captain. If they don’t, they are court martialed. There are consequences for them if they don’t obey. Do we obey Christ’s commands set forth in the bible? Or do we live our lives the way we want to? Speaking from experience, my own free will always lead me astray. But doing the Father’s will always brings peace. It draws me closer to Him!

So who is your captain? Submit yourselves to the One and Only Captain! This is how we fight sin in our lives.

Jas 4:7-8 Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. (8) Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded.

Psa 119:9 BETH. Wherewithal shall a young man cleanse his way? by taking heed thereto according to thy word.

You cannot worship any thing or any one other than the Captain and provider of salvation, which is Christ! If you’re interested in learning more about the Christ, please click here and the link will open up in a separate tab to You Can Be Born Again and Know It!

Jesus the Carpenter

By Kate Plourde

On November 13, 2024

In Devotionals

What a beautiful depiction of our Lord and Saviour: the Carpenter!!! How appropriate that Jesus was a carpenter by trade. Jesus came to earth to die for our sins and to “build” His church. That is our job and our duty as believers, amen? We are to spread the Gospel far and wide. I can’t go to the mission field but I have those around me that I can tell about Jesus and His wonderful salvation.

I was born into the catholic religion. As catholics, we were taught that Mary had no other children and that Mark 6:3 were merely referencing Jesus’ disciples as brothers and sisters. However, we must read this verse in context with all the verses. Verse 4 says that a prophet is not without honour among his own kin and his own house. Why would the Holy Spirit put this verse there if it didn’t have specific meaning, amen?

Mar 6:3-4 Is not this the carpenter, the son of Mary, the brother of James, and Joses, and of Juda, and Simon? and are not his sisters here with us? And they were offended at him. (4) But Jesus said unto them, A prophet is not without honour, but in his own country, and among his own kin, and in his own house.

A carpenters’ job is to build. So it stands to reason that Jesus would use the terminology in building His church.

Catholics believe that Peter is the rock that the church is built on (Matthew 16:18). They disregard the three previous verses that show us to what Jesus was referring. He asked Peter who men thought He was. Peter’s response was that Jesus is the Christ (the Messiah). The Jews had been waiting for a long time for the Messiah to come. This was quite the revelation to Peter. Peter’s statement that Jesus is the Christ is the very foundation of Christianity! The Jews believe there is only ONE God and this view of more than one God offended them. After all, this is why Jesus was put to death! This meant that Peter and the rest of the disciples were going against everything they had been taught. Is it any wonder that the Jews wanted to kill them?

Mat 16:15-18 He saith unto them, But whom say ye that I am? (16) And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God. (17) And Jesus answered and said unto him, Blessed art thou, Simon Barjona: for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my Father which is in heaven. (18) And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.

The New Testament was written in Greek. The Greek language is a lot more thorough in word usage than the English language. The Greek language has three definitions for the word “love,” while the English language only has one. The same goes with the word “rock.” The word, Peter, is defined in the Greek as “petros.” The definition for petros is “part of a rock.” So Jesus was saying: “Thou art “part of a rock,” and upon this rock (Peter’s declaration that Jesus is the Christ) I will build my church.” The word “this rock” is defined in the Greek as “this mass of rock.” It’s not Peter who is the mass of rock. It is Jesus!

Peter is but a man and man is sinful. Jesus rebuked Peter, as shown in two of the gospels, “Get thee behind me, Satan.” Building a church on a sinful man is the foundation of all the cults in the world. Peter himself did not want to be compared to Christ. A church built upon anything but God is a cult, my friend. Jesus is the Rock! (1 Cor. 10:4) This verse explains fully just WHO the Rock is!

Act 10:25-26 And as Peter was coming in, Cornelius met him, and fell down at his feet, and worshipped him. (26) But Peter took him up, saying, Stand up; I myself also am a man.

1 Cor 10:4 And did all drink the same spiritual drink: for they drank of that spiritual Rock that followed them: and that Rock was Christ.

Even the Apostle John tried to worship an angel when he was given the Revelation. There is no one we should bow down to except God, amen?

Rev 19:9-10 And he saith unto me, Write, Blessed are they which are called unto the marriage supper of the Lamb. And he saith unto me, These are the true sayings of God. (10) And I fell at his feet to worship him. And he said unto me, See thou do it not: I am thy fellowservant, and of thy brethren that have the testimony of Jesus: worship God: for the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy.

You cannot worship any thing or any one other than the Rock, which is Christ! If you’re interested in learning more about the Christ, please click here and the link will open up in a separate tab to You Can Be Born Again and Know It!

The Chief Cornerstone

By Kate Plourde

On November 11, 2024

In Devotionals

It never ceases to amaze me how many references to Jesus one finds in the scriptures! It opens our eyes to His magnificence and power. God wants us to get to know Him through the bible and He has provided us with so many different names which depict His nature. He did not leave it to chance but gave us a gift that would open our eyes to Him! Today’s name is so very important to me. It shows me that there is only one way to God and that is through Christ.

New Studio Architecture wrote a blog entitled, “Architectural Cornerstones: The Meaning, History, and Intent.” The definition of the corner stone is:

In relation to architecture, a cornerstone is traditionally the first stone laid for a structure, with all other stones laid in reference. A cornerstone marks the geographical location by orienting a building in a specific direction.

https://www.newstudioarchitecture.com/

How interesting this is when one reads this in light of Jesus Christ, our Saviour! We find that the words “corner stone” are used four times:

Job 38:6 Whereupon are the foundations thereof fastened? or who laid the corner stone thereof;

Isa 28:16 Therefore thus saith the Lord GOD, Behold, I lay in Zion for a foundation a stone, a tried stone, a precious corner stone, a sure foundation: he that believeth shall not make haste.

Eph 2:20 And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone;

1 Pet 2:6 Wherefore also it is contained in the scripture, Behold, I lay in Sion a chief corner stone, elect, precious: and he that believeth on him shall not be confounded.

All four times, they refer to Jesus Christ. The purpose of a corner stone is to properly align the rest of the building. How appropriate it is that God chose this name for Himself. Unless we align ourselves with Jesus Christ and His Scriptures, the rest of our spiritual life cannot be “straight.” We cannot face life’s challenges without the Scriptures. But when we do so, we know that the outcome is according to God’s will and we cannot go wrong! That is the whole problem with “religion.” Religion is all about achieving the goal of Heaven. Faith through Jesus Christ is all about Jesus‘ achievement on the cross in order to pay for our sin debt!

Another beautiful view is that we know Christ created the universe and therefore, is the Chief corner stone of all things created/made, including paying the price for our sins. The path to salvation is built on Him being the Chief corner stone – laying the foundation of salvation for mankind. The scriptures reveal that path to us.

Col 1:15-18 Who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature: (16) For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, AND FOR HIM: (17) And he is before all things, and by him all things consist. (18) And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence.

Not only does verse 18 say that Jesus is the head of His church but that He has preeminence in all things. Preeminence is the fact of surpassing all others – superiority, if you will. Therefore, reader, there is no other way to gain entrance to Heaven than to believe on the Lord Jesus Christ.

Rom 10:9 That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.

There is no other way but through Christ Jesus. Please, if you are not a born-again Christian, reevaluate your religion and search the scriptures for truth. Go into it with an open mind – just in case you could be wrong. Eternity is a long time, my friend.

John 14:6 Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me. [7] If ye had known me, ye should have known my Father also: and from henceforth ye know him, and have seen him.

If you’re remotely interested in learning more about the Christ, please click here and the link will open up in a separate tab to You Can Be Born Again and Know It!

Chosen of God

By Kate Plourde

On November 8, 2024

In Devotionals

The “Chosen of God” is a blessing to me because the salvation of the world was not left to man’s devices. Antichrists have existed for years and the agenda they push is nothing new. They follow after the father of lies, the devil. Our Saviour, the second person of the Trinity, new from the foundations of the earth that man could not stop sinning. Nor could man’s sacrifices forgive their sins. Only the shed blood of Jesus Christ could be the propitiation for mankind’s sins. Noah Webster defines the word “propitiation” as:

The atonement or atoning sacrifice offered to God to assuage his wrath and render him propitious to sinners. Christ is the propitiation for the sins of men.

Jesus, the Chosen One, took OUR sins upon Himself. This could not have been left to any human being because a human being would not be able to handle it. The pain and suffering Christ went through in order to be the perfect sacrificial Lamb is more than a mere mortal could withstand. If you want to see just what the Lord was subjected to when He was sacrificed for your sins, you can read about it here. If that doesn’t convinced you why sins’ payment had to be paid by the Chosen One, I don’t know what will!

Romans 3:25 Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God;

1 John 2:2 And he is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world.

God, the only One who is righteous, chose Himself to be the atonement for mankind’s sins. He became the perfect sacrifice by shedding His own blood. Today’s verse explains that Jesus is the Chosen One but the next two verses explain it further:

1 Peter 2:5-6 Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ. (6) Wherefore also it is contained in the scripture, Behold, I lay in Sion a chief corner stone, elect, precious: and he that believeth on him shall not be confounded.

The Chosen of God, Jesus Christ, the Chief Cornerstone of our faith, did not leave me confounded when I accepted His perfect work on the cross for my sins! The word confounded is a beautiful word here. Noah Webster defines it as:

Mixed or blended in disorder; perplexed; abashed; dismayed; put to shame and silence; astonished.

My friend, the bible says that when we are born again, we are no longer mixed or blended in the disorder of religion. We are no longer confounded, perplexed and dismayed on the life of Christian living. Jesus, the Word of God, (Revelation 19:13) has provided His very words through the Bible so we can know all we need to know.

1 John 2:26-27 These things have I written unto you concerning them that seduce you. (27) But the anointing which ye have received of him abideth in you, and ye need not that any man teach you: but as the same anointing teacheth you of all things, and is truth, and is no lie, and even as it hath taught you, ye shall abide in him.

It is important for us to search the scriptures when we hear someone preaching. This anointing that was given to us at the time of salvation, the Holy Spirit, will alert us to preaching that is not according to the scriptures.

Act 17:11 These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so.

Don’t be deceived by the spirit of the antichrist, which is alive and well today. There are many televangelists who are making tons of money on the backs of the poor and those seeking. They mislead many and have no shame. But the Chosen One of God promises peace and rest. He does not lay on us any “rules and regulations” that are burdensome.

Mat 11:28-30 Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. (29) Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. (30) For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.

The Chosen of God has promised rest to our souls. We no longer have to wonder IF we will make it to heaven or HOPE we will make it there. Rest means REST and peace. Our burdens are lifted at the cross of Calvary where the Chosen of God shed His blood for our sins. The Chosen of God took on our punishment and paid the penalty. Praise the Lord for Jesus, the Chosen of God!

If you’re remotely interested in learning more about the Christ, please click here and the link will open up in a separate tab to You Can Be Born Again and Know It!

The Name “Christ”

By Kate Plourde

On November 6, 2024

In Devotionals

The word “Christ” is not to be used as a cuss word. In fact, it is extremely offensive to born again believers when they hear the Lord’s name used in cursing! This name for Jesus is the very definition of what His mission was/is. Have you wondered why it is the most used cuss word today? The devil has managed to make it a curse word in order to deceive the world. The more it can be cursed, the less people will be saved by this beautiful Name!!!

The word Christ appears 571 times in 532 verses in the King James Bible. The word Christ in Hebrew is defined “Messiah.” Strong’s Concordance gives us the Greek word Christ. Both words mean the same as see here:

מָשִׁיחַ
mâshı̂yach
maw-shee’-akh
From H4886; anointed; usually a consecrated person (as a king, priest, or saint); specifically the Messiah: – anointed, Messiah.

Χριστός
Christos
khris-tos’
From G5548; anointed, that is, the Messiah, an epithet of Jesus: – Christ.

Luk 9:20 He said unto them, But whom say ye that I am? Peter answering said, The Christ of God.

For a Jew to admit that Jesus is their long awaited Messiah meant eventual death! One only needs to read the history of the Apostles to learn how all of them were killed for peaching Jesus as the Christ, except for John. The Apostle John was boiled in oil but he did not die. Instead, he was sent to the island of Patmos which was the place for criminals and political prisoners, located off the coast of Greece (southwest of Ephesus). Therefore, it was no small matter for these Jews to preach the Gospel of the Messiah/Christ because they knew they would pay the price of preaching with their lives! A person would scarcely die for a lie!

We have to ask ourselves if we would do the same if we knew that we would have to die in order to preach about salvation through Jesus Christ. (John 3:16, John 3:3, John 3:7, Ephesians 2:8-9) There is coming a time where this will happen again; in fact, it’s happening today. Christians all over the world are being persecuted and killed for their faith in the Christ of God.

The seven-year Tribulation period will be worse than any persecution ever, including the time of Nero and that of Hitler. We have lived a relatively easy life in the United States when it comes to practicing our faith in Jesus the Christ. But this peaceful life is dwindling. Today’s persecution of street preachers can be viewed on various social media platforms. We see how they are verbally attacked, some physically, while others are put in jail for simply praying quietly outside an abortion clinic. This is nothing compared to what is yet to come.

Mat 24:21 For then shall be great tribulation, such as was not since the beginning of the world to this time, no, nor ever shall be.

So why is the word “Christ” so hated? It is hated because we all need a Messiah, not just the Jews! The world does not want to admit they are sinners in need of saving. Our Saviour, THE one and only Messiah, was a Jew. God Himself knew that mankind could not save himself from eternal damnation in the Lake of Fire. The Father’s love is so great that He became man so He could experience what every human being experiences. How did He do this? His Spirit came on Mary, a Jew, and she became pregnant. The chromosome of God was combined with Mary’s and the Messiah was formed (God in human flesh). Praise the Lord for the Jewish faith because through the Jews, we were also given salvation.

Joh 4:22 Ye worship ye know not what: we know what we worship: for salvation is of the Jews.

It takes faith to believe in this Messiah. Some hear that message through social media, some through a pastor’s message, and some through reading the Bible. No matter which media form is used, faith is needed to believe! (Romans 10:17) Belief in Christ sounds like mumbo jumbo to those who are not seeking. I know this because this was my story. I knew OF Christ but I was not seeking to know Him because I didn’t think I needed saving.

Rom 1:16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek.

There is great power in the name of Jesus Christ! It is this name that every human being that ever lived will bow down to eventually, whether you believe in Him or not.

(Isaiah 45:23) I have sworn by myself, the word is gone out of my mouth in righteousness, and shall not return, That unto me every knee shall bow, every tongue shall swear.

(Romans 14:11) For it is written, As I live, saith the Lord, every knee shall bow to me, and every tongue shall confess to God.

(Philippians 2:10) That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth;

The time is coming, friend! It is sooner than you think. We see the signs of the fast approaching end times all around us today. In years gone by, these signs occurred slowly, one at a time. But now, they are all converging and it is easy to see that we are nearing that horrible period in time.

(Mat 24:33) So likewise ye, when ye shall see all these things, know that it is near, even at the doors.

All these things are coming together and will lead to the introduction of the Antichrist when he signs a peace treaty with Israel. He will usher in the seven-year Great Tribulation period at this event.

We cannot be certain that we will experience persecution today. We were forbidden to go to church when the pandemic hit, so we must not be surprised that the church will be chased underground in the future, should the Rapture of the Church be delayed. But one thing is for certain, the Rapture will occur before the Great Tribulation period. (Revelation 3:10) This same Christ, will come get His Bride (the Church) and keep her safe with Him in Heaven until the end of the seven year Tribulation. But this is a whole other study, amen?

Let’s preach Jesus the Christ as Peter did and be bold while we yet have time! If you’re remotely interested in learning more about the Christ, please click here and the link will open up in a separate tab to You Can Be Born Again and Know It!

The Consolation of Israel

By Kate Plourde

On November 4, 2024

In Devotionals

Luk 2:25-32 And, behold, there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon; and the same man was just and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel: and the Holy Ghost was upon him. (26) And it was revealed unto him by the Holy Ghost, that he should not see death, before he had seen the Lord’s Christ. (27) And he came by the Spirit into the temple: and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him after the custom of the law, (28) Then took he him up in his arms, and blessed God, and said, (29) Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace, according to thy word: (30) For mine eyes have seen thy salvation, (31) Which thou hast prepared before the face of all people; (32) A light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of thy people Israel.

There is no other “faith/religion” on this earth that began with such fervor and still goes on today! Over 2,000 years ago, the world was introduced to Jesus, the Christ, the Messiah. What religion is there when first instituted, that its disciples willingly died for preaching the message? None! Anyone who accepted this faith in Christ received a new heart: a heart without sin because Jesus paid the penalty for that sin. The new believer has been given a new slate, wiped clean by the sacrificial blood of the Messiah. This same Messiah gives peace to all who believe on His Name and they no longer have to wonder where they will spend eternity. Is it any wonder that Jesus’ Apostles and disciples died for this belief?

Jesus Christ desires to teach us about Himself through the living word, the Bible. That is why Jesus is also called the Word of God. He is God’s spoken words to a lost world. This is not the only name describing Christ. One of the names given to you today is the unique name: the Consolation of Israel! Why was this name chosen to describe the Lord Jesus? Let’s find out!

The Jews had suffered persecution and never achieved total peace, even to this day. Today is proof that Israel is not dwelling in peace, both physically and spiritually. They are still awaiting their Messiah. They missed Jesus Christ’s first coming altogether. However, when Christ comes at the end of the Tribulation, all eyes will see Him and will realize just who He is.

In today’s passage, we see that the Holy Spirit revealed something to Simeon. However, Simeon’s words bring such solace to the heart of man if only man chooses to understand. I absolutely love the word “consolation” in verse 25. Noah Webster has a wonderful definition for it:

Comfort; alleviation of misery, or distress of mind; refreshment of mind or spirits; a comparative degree of happiness in distress or misfortune, springing from any circumstance that abates the evil, or supports and strengthens the mind, as hope, joy, courage and the like.

Jesus is not only the Consolation of Israel but of all mankind! Notice Simeon’s words in Luke 2:30-32. Simeon reveals that he has finally seen God’s salvation (also referenced in Luke 2:26). He goes on to say that this same salvation was for all people, a light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of His people Israel. The Jews had been awaiting for their conquering Messiah for hundreds of years. Now Jesus was here to bring them comfort, to alleviate their misery, distress of mind, and refreshment of their mind and spirit! This was quite different from their expectations of a conquering Messiah! The Jews were looking for a reigning King, not a suffering Messiah. That reigning King will come at the end of the Tribulation period, known as the time of Jacob’s trouble. (Jeremiah 30:7)

But for right now, that suffering Messiah conquered death and rose again! Until His return as King of Kings and Lord of Lords (Revelation 17:14, Revelation 19:16), Jesus provides this beautiful consolation! Have you received that consolation? Do you have that peace and assurance that you will spend eternity with the Lord Jesus Christ? If you are not born again, I urge you to settle the matter right now! Friend, it is no coincidence that God has placed you here for such a time as this so that you may be saved. Please click here and the link will open up in a separate tab to You Can Be Born Again and Know It!

Christ, the Victor

By Kate Plourde

On November 1, 2024

In Devotionals

Some trust in chariots, and some in horses: but we will remember the name of the LORD our God. Psalm 20:7

Chariots and horses were the tanks and fighter jets of David’s day. Battles were won because of chariots and horses. But in that same statement, David goes on to say that he would remember the name of the LORD our God. David recognized where his help came from.

[A Song of degrees.] I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help. (Psa 121:1)

My help cometh from the LORD, which made heaven and earth. (Psa 121:2)

Do we really know where our help comes from? Do we realize just Who we are serving? Our King will not lose! The battle is not ours, my friend. The battle is His.

And all this assembly shall know that the LORD saveth not with sword and spear: for the battle is the LORD’S, and he will give you into our hands. (1 Sam. 17:47)

The Book of Revelation shows us Christ is the Victor in the end! He will have the final victory over the enemy! I found it interesting that the phrase “every knee” appears only three times in the Word. Each time, the reference is to Christ!

I have sworn by myself, the word is gone out of my mouth in righteousness, and shall not return, That unto me every knee shall bow, every tongue shall swear. (Isa 45:23)

For it is written, As I live, saith the Lord, every knee shall bow to me, and every tongue shall confess to God. (Rom 14:11)

That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; (Phi 2:10)

We will all bow our knee to the King of kings and Lord of lords! Our battles on this earth will all be behind us! Jesus Christ, the King, will have won not only the battles but He will have won the war against Satan! Ole slew foot’s time is almost over! He is fighting his battles with all fervency trying to defeat the Christian. Are you going to allow the devil to win in your battle? If you do, you will be ashamed when you stand before Christ and give account for your little faith. Why not have victory instead so your tears will be tears of joy and not of shame and sorrow?!

The Right Hand of God

By Kate Plourde

On October 30, 2024

In Devotionals

Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in thy presence is fulness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore. Psalm 16:11

The term “the right hand of God” refers to Jesus Christ, the Messiah, in prophecy. Power and authority is given to the Lord Jesus to subdue His enemies.

Psa 110:1 A Psalm of David. The LORD said unto my Lord, Sit thou at my right hand, until I make thine enemies thy footstool.

Psa 118:16 The right hand of the LORD is exalted: the right hand of the LORD doeth valiantly.

This same Jesus also provided a way for mankind to be saved! Without the Holy Spirit pricking the heart of man and leading to conviction, there can be no salvation. But the salvation of the righteous is of the LORD: he is their strength in the time of trouble. (Psalm 37:39) Salvation is of the LORD. (Jon 2:9b)

There is no greater joy and no greater pleasure than to be at the right hand of the Lord for ever more! There is something about the term “at the right hand” that struck me this morning. In America, it is common knowledge that the conservatives are “right-wingers” and the liberals are “left-wingers.” The right hand of the Lord is referenced in Scriptures. The voice of rejoicing and salvation is in the tabernacles of the righteous: the right hand of the LORD doeth valiantly. (Psalm 118:15) The right hand of the LORD is exalted: the right hand of the LORD doeth valiantly. (Psalm 118:16)

I did a search for the phrase “the right hand of God” and found it interesting that it appears eight times. All eight occurrences are in the New Testament. All eight occurrences refer to Christ being at the right hand of God. Christ’s blood covenant was a new beginning for mankind. We no longer had to sacrifice animals but had the Perfect Sacrifice covering our sin and making payment for our punishment! The number eight is commonly known to mean “new beginnings.” How appropriate it is that there are eight verses referencing Christ!

So then after the Lord had spoken unto them, he was received up into heaven, and sat on the right hand of God. (Mar 16:19)

Therefore being by the right hand of God exalted, and having received of the Father the promise of the Holy Ghost, he hath shed forth this, which ye now see and hear. (Act 2:33)

But he, being full of the Holy Ghost, looked up stedfastly into heaven, and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing on the right hand of God, (Act 7:55)

And said, Behold, I see the heavens opened, and the Son of man standing on the right hand of God. (Act 7:56)

Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us. (Romans 8:34)

If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. (Col. 3:1)

But this man, after he had offered one sacrifice for sins for ever, sat down on the right hand of God; (Heb. 10:12)

Who is gone into heaven, and is on the right hand of God; angels and authorities and powers being made subject unto him. (1 Pet. 3:22)

Doesn’t that excite you? It does me!! There are no coincidences with God’s Word. Everything in God’s Word is there to excite us, teach us and keep us fed!

Father, God, We Glorify
John & Charles Wesley

Father, God, we glorify
Thy love to Adam’s seed;
Love that gave Thy Son to die,
And raised Him from the dead:
Him, for our offenses slain,
That we all might pardon find,
Thou hast brought to life again,
The Savior of mankind.

By Thy own right hand of power
Thou hast exalted Him,
Sent the mighty Conqueror
Thy people to redeem:
King of Saints, and Prince of Peace,
Him Thou hast for sinners giv’n,
Sinners from their sins to bless,
And lift them up to Heav’n.

Father, God, to us impart
The gift unspeakable;
Now in every waiting heart
Thy glorious Son reveal:
Quickened with our living Lord,
Let us in Thy Spirit rise,
Rise to all Thy life restored,
And bless Thee in the skies.

God’s Mercy

By Kate Plourde

On October 28, 2024

In Devotionals

He hath not dealt with us after our sins; nor rewarded us according to our iniquities. For as the heaven is high above the earth, so great is his mercy toward them that fear him. Psalm 103:10,11

Praise the Lord that our Heavenly Father does not reward us according to our sins the way we deserve to be dealt with. Had it not been for our Saviour’s work on the cross, we would all be gonners! But the fact that we no longer have to worry about spending eternity in hell’s burning flames does not mean that it stops there.

A good study on hell and what it has in store for those who are not born again and blood bought is so needful today! I can probably count on one hand the number of times the topic of hell has been the center of conversation in those Christians around me. I have maybe heard two messages in my 26+ years of salvation on the teaching of hell. Why is that? Not only do the lost need to hear where they will be spending eternity but I believe the saved would be more challenged to be soul winners if they had a clear understanding of where these lost souls are going!

What is hell all about? The Bible mentions the word “hell” 54 times. There are three terms that are used to reference hell: Sheol, Hades and Gehenna. Most of Christ’s accounts of hell were referring to Hades and Gehenna. The most popular use of Hades was the account of the rich man in Luke 16:22-24. Here all of the rich man’s natural senses were affected by being in Hades. The account shows that the rich man could see what was happening, he spoke to Father Abraham, he could hear Father Abraham’s response, his mind was clear because he recognized where he was and where Father Abraham was, he cried to him for mercy, he asked Father Abraham to help his family on earth, he felt the pain because he thirsted and asked for water. All his senses were affected, as well as his emotions. He was so aware of his surroundings and what he was suffering that he did not want his family to go through the same thing. He knew he could not escape the torment he was in and it was too late for him, but not too late for his family. It was too late for him to be a soul winner at this point.

Gehenna is another term for hell which refers to the Lake of Fire after Great White Throne judgment. Rev. 20:14 And death and hell were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death. The souls in hell (Hades) will experience a second death at this point and be thrown into Gehenna (the lake of fire). Gehenna’s fires are so real that Jesus warned that it would be better to lose an eye or other part of our bodies than to be whole in the Lake of Fire! (Mark 9:43-48 ) That’s pretty serious stuff – to be told to cut off a part of your own body! Jesus said it is better that we cut off a hand and enter heaven a partial man than to be in that Lake of Fire with a whole body!

Jesus also said in Matt. 18:8 that the flames are everlasting! Have you ever burned yourself on the stove or with a hot iron? The first thing I do is run to get a cold glass of cold water filled with icecubes and dip my finger in it until the pain subsides. But this won’t be an option to the unsaved person who is cast here! Matthew 3:12 also says that the fires are unquenchable. It’s not like a campfire that dies down after a while. These flames keep going.

The Bible shows us that the Lake of Fire will have different degrees of punishment also. God’s punishment will be given out to the lost in same degree that they denied His Word. Luke 12:47-48 describes it well: And that servant, which knew his lord’s will, and prepared not himself, neither did according to his will, shall be beaten with many stripes. (47) But he that knew not, and did commit things worthy of stripes, shall be beaten with few stripes. For unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall be much required: and to whom men have committed much, of him they will ask the more. (48 ) I also think of Rom. 2:5-6, But after thy hardness and impenitent heart treasurest up unto thyself wrath against the day of wrath and revelation of the righteous judgment of God; (5) Who will render to every man according to his deeds:(6)

My friend, all will stand before Christ and give an account of every action we have done. For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad. (2 Cor. 5:10) It’s reiterated in Rev. 2:23, And I will kill her children with death; and all the churches shall know that I am he which searcheth the reins and hearts: and I will give unto every one of you according to your works.

I look at it this way, those unsaved who get “few stripes” will burn for all eternity at a level like being burned all over with the most horrible sun burn he’s ever had. The unsaved who gets “many stripes” will be burning at a level of being totally engulfed with fire!! Both will be suffering but at different degrees. However, they will all share equally in hell’s permanence (eternity) and its unquenching flames – there will be no reprieve – there will be no death as a result of these burns. Granted, there is no way for me to know exactly the pain levels the lost will experience – this is just my interpretation which helps me to imagine. Whatever it takes for you to get a burden for the lost soul, do it! This is just my way of keeping myself motivated to win the lost.

The unsaved stand no chance. Luke’s account of the rich man says it all. Once the unsaved dies, it is too late. There is no going back and changing one’s mind. The Hitlers and Neros of this world will suffer greater punishment once they are released from Hades and cast into that Lake of Fire. In my soul winning efforts, I’ve come across people who just don’t see their sin. They can’t be saved if they don’t know they are lost. But upon death, it will be a horrible awakening in a place where the worm dieth not. Christ spoke this statement three times in Mark 9:44-48. Not only is there no escaping hell’s fire for the unbeliever, but the pain and torment of being burned continuously goes on for all eternity. I cannot even begin to imagine what it will be like for a person to be engulfed in flames and to continuously be burned and their body not turning to ash – just continuously burning and burning and burning. Not for just an hour, a day, or a week – but forever!

Christian, have I helped you to realize your need to tell your lost loved ones about where they will be spending eternity if they don’t repent and get saved? Prayerfully, this has renewed your zeal for lost souls! If not, shame on you.

If you are reading this and you are not born again, won’t you reconsider what you believe today? You may not believe in a literal hell. Many may say that hell is here on earth. But Jesus did not preach that at all. Don’t take what others say and make it your belief. Could you possibly be wrong? Have you been right about everything in your life? What if you’re wrong about this?

God created hell for the devil and his angels (Matt. 25:41). It is your choice to remain in the lost condition you are in right now. No one is forcing you to get saved. But admit this one thing … deep down inside you, you’re wondering if what I have said is even remotely true. I would rather exercise my little faith, be saved, and find out when I die that the Bible was true than to ignore my little faith and enjoy life full of sin only to find out that everything about hell was true and now I have to spend an eternity burning, writhing in pain for all eternity.

A wise Senior Saint once told me, “Hell’s fire is too hot and eternity is too long for me to ignore salvation!”

Dear God…
Please open the heart of the one who reads
What You have laid on my heart today
Create in me a burden so heavy and great
That I need to show someone salvation’s way.

Who Would You Turn To?

By Kate Plourde

On October 25, 2024

In Devotionals

The LORD is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust; my buckler, and the horn of my salvation, and my high tower. Psalm 18:2

The combination of these words is used multiple times in the Bible. Usually when the Word tells us something twice, we are to take notice. But note how many times these words are used:

For thou art my rock and my fortress; therefore for thy name’s sake lead me, and guide me. (Psa. 31:3)

Be thou my strong habitation, whereunto I may continually resort: thou hast given commandment to save me; for thou art my rock and my fortress. (Psa. 71:3)

I will say of the LORD, He is my refuge and my fortress: my God; in him will I trust. (Psa. 91:2)

My goodness, and my fortress; my high tower, and my deliverer; my shield, and he in whom I trust; who subdueth my people under me. (Psa. 144:2)

O LORD, my strength, and my fortress, and my refuge in the day of affliction, the Gentiles shall come unto thee from the ends of the earth, and shall say, Surely our fathers have inherited lies, vanity, and things wherein there is no profit. (Jer. 16:19)

Do you think our Heavenly Father was trying to communicate something to His children? I surely do! Let’s pick out the specific terms used and meditate on them a bit.

God is our Rock. I think of a rock as stable, solid, immovable. And did all drink the same spiritual drink: for they drank of that spiritual Rock that followed them: and that Rock was Christ. (1 Cor. 10:4)

God is our Fortress. Noah Webster’s 1828 Dictionary defines a fortress as:

1. Any fortified place; a fort; a castle; a strong hold; a place of defense or security. The English have a strong fortress on the rock of Gibraltar, or that rock is a fortress.

And he said, The LORD is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; (2 Sam. 22:2) God is our defense and our security. When we are walking in Him (not the world), we can be assured of this!

God is our Deliverer. Christ has rescued and delivered us from an eternity of burning in hell’s fires, total darkness and separation from God! And so all Israel shall be saved: as it is written, There shall come out of Sion the Deliverer, and shall turn away ungodliness from Jacob: (Rom. 11:26) He also delivers us from evil as He taught us in His example of how to pray.

God is our Strength. Noah Webster defines this word, strength, as:

Support; that which supports; that which supplies strength; security.

The Lord supports us, supplies us with His strength and gives us security in those times when men fail us! And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. (2Co 12:9) Oh thank You, Lord!

God is our Buckler. I had a mental picture of what a buckler was but reading Noah Webster’s definition made my heart leap!

A kind of shield, or piece of defensive armor, anciently used in war. It was composed of wood, or wickers woven together, covered with skin or leather, fortified with plates of brass or other metal, and worn on the left arm. On the middle was an umbo, boss or prominence, very useful in causing stones and darts to glance off. The buckler often was four feet long, and covered the whole body.

Notice how the buckler was worn on the left arm – protecting the heart of man. This same buckler causes the enemies darts to fall off. I love how the Lord is our defense – our buckler – protecting us from the enemy! When we abide in Him, we have His protection over us. I think of being under His wings at this point!

God is the Horn of our Salvation. Horns were a big part of the Bible. They sounded for danger, they were used for heralding an event, etc. Jesus Christ is the only One who can provide us with salvation – there is no other. And hath raised up an horn of salvation for us in the house of his servant David; (Luke 1:69) Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me. (John 14:6) Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved. (Act 4:12) I am so thankful that my salvation rests in Jesus Christ. He is the only One – no other!

God is our High Tower. When I envision a high tower, I see a building that is taller than the others around it. This tower allows one to see from all around when danger is coming. This same tower also provides protection to those who are within its walls. Our Lord is our High Tower – He protects us from the enemy. We can rest knowing that He is on the tower watching out for us. What comfort this brings me! My God cares for me! Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you. (1Pe 5:7)

We have a God who sits atop a high tower watching out for us, shielding us and protecting our hearts from the enemy. Our salvation is secure in Him and He provides us the strength we need to deal with the enemy. He delivers us from the temptations that He sees coming. As long as we stand on His Word (His Rock), we have no need to fear. So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me. (Heb. 13:6) Oh thank You, Lord, for this blessing today!

A Mighty Fortress Is Our God
Martin Luther

A mighty fortress is our God, a bulwark never failing;
Our helper He, amid the flood of mortal ills prevailing:
For still our ancient foe doth seek to work us woe;
His craft and power are great, and, armed with cruel hate,
On earth is not his equal.

Did we in our own strength confide, our striving would be losing;
Were not the right Man on our side, the Man of God’s own choosing:
Dost ask who that may be? Christ Jesus, it is He;
Lord Sabaoth, His Name, from age to age the same,
And He must win the battle.

And though this world, with devils filled, should threaten to undo us,
We will not fear, for God hath willed His truth to triumph through us:
The Prince of Darkness grim, we tremble not for him;
His rage we can endure, for lo, his doom is sure,
One little word shall fell him.

That word above all earthly powers, no thanks to them, abideth;
The Spirit and the gifts are ours through Him Who with us sideth:
Let goods and kindred go, this mortal life also;
The body they may kill: God’s truth abideth still,
His kingdom is forever.