Assurance

"This is how we know that we belong to the truth and how we set our hearts at rest in His presence: If our hearts condemn us, we know that God is greater than our hearts, and He knows everything." (1 John 3:19-20)

Obedience to God's Word and agape love (the fruit of the Spirit) towards people not only prove (to others) that we belong to the truth but also give our own hearts confident assurance of being in the truth. Our hearts are at rest (at peace) in God's presence because we know we are in His will; we are doing what He wants us to do.

Well, nobody (not even pastors or theologians) can obey God's Word and practice agape love perfectly all the time. Yes, we all fail at times. Our failures may make us question whether we belong to the truth. Our hearts may condemn us and make us doubt our salvation. This could be the work of the enemy (the accuser of our brothers and sisters, mentioned in Revelation 12:10) or the work of our oversensitive conscience. When this happens, we must trust what God's Word says about our standing in Christ, not how we feel. We know that God is greater than our hearts and He knows everything. God is greater than our lack of assurance. He says in His Word: "For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and all are justified freely by His grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus." (Romans 3:23-24) If you have trusted in Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior and relied on His finished work of redemption on the cross to pay for the penalty of your sins, you have been justified (declared not guilty) and all your sins have been forgiven as if you had never sinned. In addition, Christ's righteousness has been imputed to us. God knows all the good, the bad, and the ugly in us and He still loves us, cares for us, and forgives us. We are still His children. "The believer's ultimate foundation of assurance is the character of God." (Criswell) Even when we fail Him, He will never fail us. We can always depend on Him. God's love will never let us go. We are His forever.

John's intention for these verses is to encourage us with blessed assurance of salvation. "I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God so that you may know that you have eternal life." (1 John 5:13) Notice that John used the word "know" many times in this letter. He really wanted us to know all these truths so that all doubts can be removed. Be confident in your salvation; know that you're saved by grace alone through faith alone in Christ alone, not by your performance.  

Don't let doubt discourage you, make you spiritually lethargic, and render you useless for the kingdom of God. Never give up pressing into God and pressing on trusting God and living for God. Authentic faith perseveres. Persistence and perseverance will eventually lead to confidence and assurance. 

1. Keep going to God in prayer. "If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness." (1 John 1:9) "Prayer crowns God with the honor and glory due to His name, and God crowns prayer with assurance and comfort. The most praying souls are the most assured souls." (Thomas Brooks)  Keep praying and asking Holy Spirit to increase your faith, to give you confident assurance, and to empower you to walk in obedience and to love like Jesus.

2. Keep going to God's Word. "Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus." (Romans 8:1) The assurance of salvation is simply a matter of taking God at His Word.

No condemnation now I dread, 
I am my Lord’s and He is mine;
Alive in Him, my living Head,
And clothed in righteousness divine.
(Wesley)

3. Keep loving God and loving people. Focus on these two greatest commandments and rely on God's strength and power to do this. 

4. Keep throwing yourselves on God's mercy and grace. Again and again. Our sins are many but His mercy is more and His grace is inexhaustible!

5. Keep clinging to Christ no matter what and remembering what Christ accomplished on the cross ("It is finished!"). "For every look at self--take ten looks at Christ!" (Robert Murray McCheyne) The antidote to self-condemnation is to gaze and camp on Christ's redemption and justification. "When I cannot enjoy the faith of assurance, I live by the faith of adherence." (Matthew Henry)

"Assurance grows by repeated conflict, by our repeated experimental proof of the Lord's power and goodness to save; when we have been brought very low and helped, sorely wounded and healed, cast down and raised again, have given up all hope, and been suddenly snatched from danger, and placed in safety; and when these things have been repeated to us and in us a thousand times over, we begin to learn to trust simply to the word and power of God, beyond and against appearances: and this trust, when habitual and strong, bears the name of assurance; for even assurance has degrees." (John Newton, a former slave trader, who wrote Amazing Grace)

Day by Day

Note: Please turn off my music playlist at the bottom of this page before starting the video.


When Lina (the Swedish writer of this hymn) was 26, her father (a devout minister) fell overboard and drowned right before her eyes. This tragic experience did not make her bitter or angry at God; instead, she chose to live each day with the conscious presence and strength of her Lord and continued to express a childlike faith/a deep & peaceful trust in Him day by day.

"Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need." Hebrews 4:16

"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go." Joshua 1:9

Review: Life of John Newton

Life of John Newton
American Missionary Fellowship
9780890516201 Retail Price: $14.99

About the book:
What about the life of an 18th century human trafficker could inspire you?

John Newton found himself the captain of a ship transporting slaves from Africa to England. On each journey, he mercilessly subjected hundreds to inhumane conditions only to be sold if they survived. But in a life-threatening storm, he cried out to God for help. Saved from imminent death, Newton soon realized he had also been saved from himself. Twenty years into his journey of knowing the grace and mercy of God, Newton penned Amazing Grace, unforgettable hymn of redemption.

The Life of John Newton is a biography that will inspire every man, woman and child. His spiritual transformation highlights the unstoppable force of God's love and unlimited grace regardless of one’s own wretched history.

This Christian Classic was originally published in 1831 ASSU (American Sunday School Union). Attic Books, an imprint of New Leaf Publishing Group, meticulously reproduced each page. With tattered edged pages and a vintage cover, Life of John Newton is now an affordable, timeless classic is for a new generation interested in the foundations of our Christian heritage. It is one of Attic Books “Life of” series featuring biographies of heroes from the 18th century and beyond.

My Thoughts and Review:
Amazing Grace, the most popular hymn of all times...who hasn't heard it? Some also know who wrote it. I wonder how many really know the dramatic life of John Newton, its author. I myself had heard his story before. But what a treat it was for me to read this book/his biography and learn more about him! I was stunned to find out how many times he had near-death experiences (at least 7 times!...I counted them). Talk about God's providence...John Newton saw it over and over again. John Newton was born in London on July 24, 1725. His life had gone through lots of challenges and difficulties starting as early as when he was a preteen (a rough, corrupted seaman). From being a troubled teen at its worst to working like a slave under a mean mistress to becoming a slave trader himself! But no one including John Newton is beyond God's grace, mercy, and redemption! His life was such a powerful testimony.

I really enjoyed reading this inspiring book. Did you know that he couldn't swim (which contributed to the fact that he was on the brink of death many times considering his line of work :))? Did you know that he was a romantic guy :)? He wrote beautiful love letters to his wife; they were also filled with Biblical insights and eternal perspectives. Here is an example (he wrote to his wife when he was ill and didn't know if he would live or die): "Should it therefore please God, to make my death the happy occasion of fixing your dependence, hope, and desire, upon him alone; surely I can say, Thy will be done. My heart bleeds when I represent to myself, the grief with which such an event would overwhelm you. But I know that he can moderate and sanctify it, and give you cause hereafter to say, it was good for you to have been so afflicted; and ere long, the time will come, when all tears shall be wiped, both from your eyes and mine." (p. 92) Did you know that he knew 5 languages: Greek, Hebrew, Latin, French, and English? John Newton was humble, encouraging, and loving. He was a major influence on William Cowper (who struggled with depression most of his life), a fellow hymn writer. They worked together and produced the famous Olney Hymns hymnal in 1779.

John Newton died at the age of 82. He never ceased to be in awe at God's grace and if you read this book, you'll totally understand why. Shortly before his death, John Newton said, "My memory is nearly gone, but I remember two things: That I am a great sinner and that Christ is a great Savior!"

"The power of God can reclaim the most hardened offender, but no one has a right to expect it will be exerted in his favour, if he persist in that which he knows to be wrong." (p. 6)
"I can see no reason why the Lord singled me out for mercy, but this, 'that so it seemed good to him;' unless it was to show, by one astonishing instance, that with him 'nothing is impossible.' (p. 56)

~ I received this book for free from New Leaf Publishing Group in exchange for my honest review.

Note: Please turn off my music playlist at the bottom of this page before starting the trailer.

What God Desires

This Tuesday’s In Other Words is hosted by Nina of Mama’s Little Treasures.
“For I desire mercy, not sacrifice, and acknowledgment of God rather than burnt offerings.” Hosea 6:6

Throughout the Bible, we can see God's heart. He wants us to acknowledge Him (see verses below), love Him (Deuteronomy 6:5, 10:12, Matthew 22:37), worship Him (2 Kings 17:36, Psalm 100:2, Matthew 4:10), praise Him (1 Chronicles 16:25, Psalm 66:8), glorify Him (Psalm 34:3, Romans 15:5-6, 1 Corinthians 10:31), honor Him (John 5:23, 1 Corinthians 6:20, Proverbs 3:9), fear/revere Him (Deuteronomy 10:12, 13:4, 17:19, 1 Samuel 12:24, Psalm 22:23), trust Him (Psalm 22:9, 37:3, 62:8, Isaiah 26:4, John 14:1), obey Him (Deuteronomy 13:4, 1 Samuel 15:22, Jeremiah 11:4b, John 14:15), serve Him (Deuteronomy 10:12, 13:4, 1 Samuel 12:24, Psalm 2:11, Matthew 4:10, Hebrews 9:14, Revelation 5:10), and imitate Him (Ephesians 5:1, Philippians 2:5, 1 Peter 1:15-16).

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him and He will make your paths straight." Proverbs 3:5-6

Jesus said in Matthew 10:32, "Whoever acknowledges Me before men, I will also acknowledge him before My Father in heaven."

"If anyone acknowledges that Jesus is the Son of God, God lives in him and he in God." 1 John 4:15

People often acknowledge talents, accomplishments, hard work, success, beauty, intelligence, even luck/fortune and Mother Nature. But they fail to realize/recognize Who is the Giver of all blessings...Who created us and nature...Who is sovereign over all things, Who is behind all the miracles, etc. And we ourselves like to be acknowledged, don't we? That's why we need to be careful to remember that anything good in us is what the Lord has done for us, in us, and through us. If we fail to acknowledge God, our good deeds/service/giving/ ministries ("burnt offerings") mean nothing.

"Sacrifice and offering You did not desire, but my ears you have pierced; burnt offerings and sin offerings You did not require. Then I said, 'Here I am, I have come--it is written about me in the scroll. I desire to do Your will, O my God; Your law is within my heart.' I proclaim righteousness in the great assembly; I do not seal my lips, as You know, O Lord. I do not hide Your righteousness in my heart; I speak of Your faithfulness and salvation. I do not conceal Your love and Your truth from the great assembly." (Psalm 40:6-10) David knew what God desires and beautifully acknowledged God!

God's mercy is so great and He desires us to extend His mercy to others. "Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful." Luke 6:36 (Imitate Him!)

Jesus said in Matthew 9:12-13, "It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. But go and learn what this means: 'I desire mercy, not sacrifice.' For I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners."

When the Pharisees complained to Jesus about His disciples picking and eating heads of grain on the Sabbath, Jesus said, "If you had known what these words mean, 'I desire mercy, not sacrifice,' you would not have condemned the innocent." Matthew 12:7

Remember...God looks at the heart. If our heart lacks mercy and does not acknowledge God, all our sacrifice and "burnt offerings" (any form of offerings) would be detestable to Him. Don't be like the Pharisees!

~ If you'd like to know what "In Other Words" is all about, please visit here.
~ To find other Spiritual Sundays participants, please visit here.

What Has Been On My Mind?

This week, I'm doing something different :).  I copied and pasted what I've been sharing on my Facebook and Twitter.  In the box asking, "What's on your mind?" (on FB) and "What's happening?" (on Twitter), I usually share Bible verses, inspirational quotes, and my thoughts.  Here are some random things that have been on my mind:

"My face is set, my gait is fast, my goal is heaven, my road is narrow, my way is rough, my companions are few, my Guide is reliable, my mission is clear. I cannot be bought, compromised, detoured, lured away, turned back, deluded, or delayed...I am a disciple of Jesus. I must go 'til He comes, give 'til I drop, preach 'til all know, and work 'til He stops me." ~Anne Graham Lotz

"The most important part of our task will be to tell everyone who will listen that Jesus is the only answer to the problems that are disturbing the hearts of men and nations." ~Betsie ten Boom

Life is short; the need to share the Gospel with the lost is urgent. Death is not the worst thing; being separated from God for eternity is.

"There may be days of darkness and distress, when sin has power to tempt, and care to press. Yet in the darkest day I will not fear, for 'midst the shadows, You will still be near. Thank You, Lord Jesus." ~Corrie ten Boom

"How we respond to difficulties will determine whether we are a winner or a whiner. One of Satan’s first temptations when our life appears to be on hold is to tempt us to live by feelings instead of faith." ~Michael Youssef

"Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need." (Hebrews 4:16) Let us rest in God's grace and mercy each day...come what may!

"Jesus answered, "I am the Way and the Truth and the Life. No one comes to the Father except through Me." (John 14:6) "Too often we want a roadmap to the future rather than a relationship with the Way." (~Henry Blackaby) Apart from Christ, this life journey is meaningless and hopeless! Make sure you know the Way!

“It is better to be divided by truth than to be united in error. It is better to speak the truth that hurts and then heals, than falsehood that comforts and then kills. It is not LOVE and it is not friendship if we fail to declare the whole counsel of God...It’s better to stand alone with the truth than to be wrong with a multitude.” (~Adrian Rogers)  Let's speak the truth in LOVE ♥ !

"If Christianity seems to you to be having rather less than a remarkable impact on the earth, it is because too many Christians have this idea that we are in a waiting game, that we are basically killing time until Jesus comes back and we all get to go to heaven. We are sitting around like people waiting to catch a flight.... That is not what Jesus told us to do; He didn't say, 'Now hold tight in those pews and twiddle your holy thumbs, I'll be back soon as I can.'" (from Love & War by John and Stasi Eldredge, page 111) Jesus gave us a mission: the Great Commission! Let's be active in serving the King of kings and furthering His kingdom!

"God is not glorified when we kept for ourselves (no matter how thankfully) what we ought to be using to alleviate the misery of unevangelized, uneducated, unmedicated, and unfed millions." ~John Piper

"Sympathy is no substitute for action."(David Livingstone, missionary to Africa) "No one would remember the Good Samaritan if he had only had good intentions."(Margaret Thatcher) Faith without action is dead. Love without action is hypocrisy.What are we doing to reach the lost, to help the needy, to give hope to the hopeless, to save the unborn, to feed the hungry, etc.? Sympathy and good intentions just don't cut it!

"Farewell, vain world; my soul bids you adieu. My Savior taught me to abandon you. Your charms may gratify a sensual mind, but cannot please a soul for God designed." ~David Brainerd

You know that you truly love someone when you still love that person even when he/she is unloveable. How thankful I am that God loves me so!

"But God demonstrates His own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us." (Romans 5:8) "Love sent my Lord to the cross of shame, Love found a way, O praise His holy name!" Unknown

Disappointment & discontent occur when we assume we know how life should be and what God should do, instead of trusting God who knows what's best.

Strive to be like Christ, but never glorify our Christlikeness, in place of Christ.


~Please visit here for the links to other Spiritual Sundays posts. Have a blessed day in the Lord, everyone!

Come, Thou Fount of Every Blessing

Note: Please turn off my music playlist at the bottom of this page before starting the video.

Come, Thou Fount of Every Blessing (written by Robert Robinson, sung by Jadon Lavik)

"From the Lord comes deliverance.  May Your blessing be on Your people." Psalm 3:8
"From the fullness of His grace we have all received one blessing after another." John 1:16
"Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ." Ephesians 1:3
"Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows." James 1:17

In 1 Samuel 7, when God made the Philistines get into panic mode and lose to the Israelites, Samuel took a stone and set it up as a remembrance of God's faithfulness and help.  He named the stone, "Ebenezer" which means stone of help.  "God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble." (Psalm 46:1)
Let us all raise our "Ebenezer" with our praises!


Previous Songs:
- Faithful One
- Your Love Broke Through
- Until the Whole World Hears
- Take My Life
- In Christ Alone
- Sweetly Broken
- Be Thou My Vision
- God With Us
- Offering- Christmas Version 
- How Many Kings
- Give Thanks
- When I Survey the Wondrous Cross
- He Knows My Name
- Oh Lord, You're Beautiful!
- What the Lord Has Done in Me
- I Surrender All
- Mighty To Save
- Could I Be Called a Christian?
- Cry Out to Jesus
- Jesus, Be the Center
- God of Justice
- Love That Will Not Let Me Go
- I Will Offer Up My Life
- When It's All Been Said and Done
- Knowing You, Jesus

Faithful One

Note: Please turn off my music playlist at the bottom of this page before starting the videos.

Faithful One (Written by Brian Doerksen, sung by Robin Mark)


Faithful One (Written by Chris Eaton, performed by Selah)

"Blessed is he whose help is the God of Jacob, whose hope is in the Lord his God, the Maker of heaven and earth, the sea, and everything in them--the Lord, who remains faithful forever." Psalm 146:5-6

"Find rest, O my soul, in God alone; my hope comes from Him.  He alone is my rock and my salvation; He is my fortress, I will not be shaken." Psalm 62:5-6

"Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever." Hebrews 13:8
Jesus is my Forever Faithful Friend!  He is full of love, compassion, mercy, and grace.  We can always depend on Him no matter what storms of life we're going through. What a Friend we have in Jesus! He is the Best Friend anyone could ever ask for.


Previous Songs:
- Your Love Broke Through
- Until the Whole World Hears
- Take My Life
- In Christ Alone
- Sweetly Broken
- Be Thou My Vision
- God With Us
- Offering- Christmas Version 
- How Many Kings
- Give Thanks
- When I Survey the Wondrous Cross
- He Knows My Name
- Oh Lord, You're Beautiful!
- What the Lord Has Done in Me
- I Surrender All
- Mighty To Save
- Could I Be Called a Christian?
- Cry Out to Jesus
- Jesus, Be the Center
- God of Justice
- Love That Will Not Let Me Go
- I Will Offer Up My Life
- When It's All Been Said and Done
- Knowing You, Jesus

Who Owes Who?

I Am Debtor
by Robert M. McCheyne (1813-1843)

When this passing world is done,
When has sunk yon glaring sun,
When we stand with Christ in glory,
Looking o'er life's finished story,
Then, Lord, shall I fully know —
Not till then — how much I owe.

When I hear the wicked call
On the rocks and hills to fall,
When I see them start and shrink
On the fiery deluge brink, —
Then, Lord, shall I fully know —
Not till then — how much I owe.

When I stand before the throne,
Dressed in beauty not my own,
When I see Thee as Thou art,
Love Thee with unsinning heart,
Then, Lord, shall I fully know —
Not till then — how much I owe.

When the praise of heav'n I hear,
Loud as thunder to the ear,
Loud as many water's noise,
Sweet as harp's melodious voice,
Then, Lord, shall I fully know —
Not till then — how much I owe.

Even on earth, as through a glass
Darkly, let Thy glory pass,
Make forgiveness feel so sweet,
Make Thy Spirit's help so meet,
Even on earth, Lord, make me know
Something of how much I owe.

Chosen not for good in me,
Wakened up from wrath to flee,
Hidden in the Saviour's side,
By the Spirit sanctified,
Teach me, Lord, on earth to show,
By my love, how much I owe.

Oft I walk beneath the cloud,
Dark, as midnight's gloomy shroud;
But, when fear is at the height,
Jesus comes, and all is light;
Blessed Jesus! bid me show
Doubting saints how much I owe.

When in flowery paths I tread,
Oft by sin I'm captive led;
Oft I fall — but still arise —
The Spirit comes — the tempter flies;
Blessed Spirit! bid me show
Weary sinners all I owe.

Oft the nights of sorrow reign —
Weeping, sickness, sighing, pain;
But a night Thine anger burns —
Morning comes and joy returns;
God of comforts! Bid me show
To Thy poor, how much I owe.

After I read this poem, the question, “Who Owes Who?” popped into my head. Let’s imagine that you owe somebody money. Would you keep asking and expecting that person to give you food, clothes, shelter, and other things you need & want? No, you would be grateful that this person is not demanding you to pay all your debt right now. And you certainly would become speechless when he canceled your debt because his son paid it all for you. Now imagine that you owe someone your life. Would you be expecting this person to keep protecting you, being there to meet your every need, comforting you, and taking away your pain? No, you would be forever grateful and would do anything for this person. But...what are we doing to God who gives us life on earth and eternal life in heaven? How many times have Christians felt that God should answer their prayers according to their will/desire (not His will)? They think that they have been really faithful Christians by obeying His Word (most of the time), consistently giving tithes/firstfruits, sharing the Gospel with others, serving in various ministries, helping the homeless, etc. They then expect God to bless them/reward them or at least answer their prayers. We, Christians, pray for healing, comfort, strength, wisdom, help, solutions, etc. and we totally trust God to answer our prayers. There is nothing wrong with praying and believing. That’s what faith is and that’s what the Bible teaches. However, is our attitude right? Do we act like God owes us something? Are we tapping our fingers and waiting impatiently and wondering what takes God so long to do something for us?

Seriously, God owes us nothing; we owe God everything!

God does not have to love us but He does. “For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.” John 3:16

God does not have to forgive us but He does. “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.” 1 John 1:9

God does not have to show grace and mercy to us but He does. “Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.” Hebrews 4:16

God does not have to save us from eternal damnation and give us eternal life but He does. “For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Romans 6:23

God does not have to answer our prayers but He does. “This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us. And if we know that He hears us–whatever we ask–we know that we have what we asked of Him.” 1 John 5:14-15

God does not have to care about us or bear our burdens but He does. “Praise be to the Lord, to God our Savior, who daily bears our burdens.” Psalm 68:19 “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:28

He does what He does because it’s His character. It’s all about Him, not us. The fact that He loves us so much and gave His one and only Son, Jesus Christ, to be the sacrifice once and for all so that by His grace we are saved through faith in Jesus...is beyond comprehension. By His grace alone, folks! We can do nothing to earn salvation. Jesus paid the debt that we cannot pay. Even if God does nothing else for our lives, we should be eternally grateful for our salvation. We have nothing to complain about whatsoever. We live each day under His grace. When you pray, remember to pray for His will (not your will) to be done because His will is the best and because He is God who owes you nothing.

“In Jesus' name we voice our prayers—
The Bible tells us to;
But may we never use that name
To tell God what to do.”
~D. De Haan

~Please visit here for the links to other Spiritual Sundays posts. Thanks so much to Charlotte and Ginger for hosting Spiritual Sundays every week. Have a blessed day in the Lord, everyone!

Sola Gratia (Grace Alone)

In our society, some people feel that they are entitled to this and that. They seem to think that they deserve happiness, success, comfortable living, fair treatment, etc. for whatever reasons. What do we all really deserve? The Bible says that we deserve death, punishment, and God’s wrath. However, because of God’s grace and mercy, we get what we do not deserve while we do not get what we deserve.

By His grace, God offers us the free gift of salvation through Jesus Christ who died on the cross for our sins. God’s sinless, sovereign Son scorned by several, sacrificed self (solely suitable, satisfactory scapegoat) to save sinners’ souls securely from sin, suppressing sly satan’s scheme. That’s amazing grace, indeed!

“For it is by grace your have been saved, through faith--and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God--not by works, so that no one can boast.” Ephesians 2:8-9

“To the praise of His glorious grace, which He has freely given us in the One He loves. In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God's grace that He lavished on us.” Ephesians 1:6-8

“For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ.” John 1:17

Are you in pursuit of life, liberty, and happiness? Jesus Christ is the only One who can give you an eternal life/an abundant life, true liberty (from sins and from spiritual death), and true joy (not fleeting happiness).

What Does “Grace” Mean to You?
“The grace of our Lord was poured out on me abundantly, along with the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus. Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners--of whom I am the worst.” 1 Timothy 1:14-15

“The law was brought in so that the trespass might increase. But where sin increased, grace increased all the  more, so that, just as sin reigned in death, so also grace might reign through righteousness to bring eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.” Romans 5:20-21

No words can adequately describe the depth and magnitude of God’s grace. Nothing can compare to God’s grace. Without God’s grace, there would be no salvation, forgiveness, redemption, righteousness, and reconciliation. The more we realize how wretched we are, the more we understand, appreciate, and embrace God’s grace.

Excuse to Sin?…Not!
God’s grace is greater than all our sin, guilt, and shame. However, it is not an excuse for us to do whatever we want.

“And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.” (2 Corinthians 9:8)

“But by the grace of God I am what I am, and His grace to me was not without effect. No, I worked harder than all of them--yet not I, but the grace of God that was with me.” (1 Corinthians 15:10)

By God’s grace, we are set free from being slaves to sin so that we may do “every good work” that God calls us to do.

“For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” (Ephesians 2: 10)

Grow in Grace
“But grow in grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be glory both now and for ever! Amen.” (2 Peter 3:18)

How do you grow in grace? By imitating Jesus Christ! He is the ultimate picture of “grace”...the Embodiment of God's grace! Is grace evident in your speech, attitude, and actions? Do you extend grace that the Lord bestowed upon you to others?

“For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people. It teaches us to say 'No' to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and Godly lives in this present age, while we wait for the blessed hope--the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ, Who gave Himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify for Himself a people that are His very own, eager to do what is good.” (Titus 2:11-14)

“Growing in grace” means learning to say no to ungodliness and worldly passions while living self-controlled, upright, and Godly lives, being more like Christ each day.

His Grace is Sufficient
Not only are we saved by grace alone, but also we live/survive each day by His grace.

“But He said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is made perfect in weakness.' Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weakness, so that Christ's power may rest on me.” (2 Corinthians 12:9) “Let us then approach God's throne of grace with confidence,  so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.” (Hebrews 4:16)

When we face trials in life, God’s grace always sustains us and strengthens us. His grace is sufficient for you and me in any situation. When we fail, God's grace is there to forgive us and remind us that He loves us no matter what. Rest in His unending & unconditional love, grace, and mercy!

John Newton who wrote the famous hymn, “Amazing Grace” said shortly before his death, “My memory is nearly gone, but I remember two things: That I am a great sinner and that Christ is a great Savior!” May we never stop being amazed by God’s grace!

God’s grace saved and redeemed us
Restored our relationship with our Heavenly Father
Amazing love demonstrated thus
Christ died for all sinners
Eternal life offered to all who believe in Jesus

~Please visit here for the links to other Spiritual Sundays posts. Thanks so much to Charlotte and Ginger for hosting Spiritual Sundays every week. Have a blessed day in the Lord, everyone!

Thankful Thursday #16

 
This week...
1. I am thankful that "It is of the Lord's mercies that we are not consumed, because His compassions fail not. They are new every morning; great is Thy faithfulness." (Lamentations 3:22-23)  It is very comforting to me that His mercies, compassions, and faithfulness never fail...never cease.  "Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever." (Psalm 23:6)  I am glad that I don't have to wake up to the same day everyday like the main character in the movie, "Groundhog Day" :).  If I fail today or make mistakes or today is an unpleasant day (filled with troubles and sorrow, etc.), tomorrow is a brand new day...God's mercy, compassion, and faithfulness already waiting there for me.

2. I am thankful for solitude and silence.  Just me and God alone!  It's a precious time when all is well with my soul.  You might find it funny but I enjoy ironing my husband's clothes.  I spend that ironing time to think and pray.  God often brings to my mind the Scriptures I need and/or the people I should pray for.  "Be still, and know that I am God." Psalm 46:10a

3. I am thankful for tears.  I usually feel much better after I cry.  "Those who sow in tears will reap with songs of joy.  He who goes out weeping, carrying seed to sow, will return with songs of joy, carrying sheaves with him." (Psalm 126:5-6)  I think it's wonderful that God created us with the ability to shed tears and thus release emotional tension.  I cry easily...happy cries, sad cries, overwhelmed-by-God's love-for-me cries, cries over touching movies or songs, etc. 

4. I am thankful for my beloved husband who is very loving, understanding, caring, and supportive.  He is the greatest listener, counselor, peacemaker, encourager, and prayer partner.

5. I am thankful for my youngest son, Isaiah (8) who is a remarkable boy.  He is such a joy and a blessing.  He is obedient, respectful, polite, diligent, hard-working, kind, compassionate, patient, and cheerful.

P.S. I am hosting a book giveaway on my HSB blog.  You can win a copy of The One Day Way: Today Is All the Time You Need to Lose All the Weight You Want by Chantel Hobbs.  Please click here to enter.  The deadline is January 15th.

God With Us

I love all of Jesus's names.  One of them that touches my heart deeply is Immanuel: God with us.  I am forever grateful and in awe that our Almighty God who can have anything in this universe, loves us so much and wants to be with us...to dwell in us. 

"The virgin will be with Child and will give birth to a Son and they will call Him Immanuel (Emmanuel)--which means, 'God with us.'" Matthew 1:23

The skies don't seem to be as dark as usual
The stars seem brighter then they've been before
Deep within I feel my soul a stirring
As though my hope has been restored
The shepherds say they've heard the voice of angels
Confirming rumors spread across the land
That a child protected well from Herod's anger
Is our Father's Son, and the son of man

Love is raining down on the world tonight
There's a presence here I can tell
God is in us, God is for us, God is with us, Emmanuel
He's the Savior we have been praying for
In our humble hearts He will dwell
God is in us, God is for us, God is with us, Emmanuel

I feel compelled to tell all who will listen
That peace on earth is not so out of reach
If we can find grace, mercy and forgiveness
He has come to save, He is all of these

You're the Savior we have been praying for
In our humble hearts You will dwell
You are in us, You are for us, You are with us, Emmanuel


Rejoice!  Rejoice in the joy of Christ's birth and of knowing that He is with us, in us, and for us!  Merry CHRISTmas, everyone!

P.S. I'm hosting a book giveaway on my HSB blog. You can win a copy of 40 Loaves: Breaking Bread with Our Father Each Day by C.D. Baker. The deadline is this Sunday, Dec. 20th at midnight (Pacific time). Hope you will stop by and enter:)!  I am also hosting 12 Pearls of Christmas until Dec. 25th on this blog.  Please come back everyday to read different inspiring and touching stories written by well-known Christian female authors (Melody Carlson, Tricia Goyer, Susan May Warren, Dawn Meehan, Maureen Lang, Mary deMuth, Holley Gerth, and more...) and leave a comment for a chance to win a pearl necklace.  Scroll down to see what I have posted so far.

Previous Songs:
- Offering- Christmas Version 
- How Many Kings
- Give Thanks
- When I Survey the Wondrous Cross
- He Knows My Name
- Oh Lord, You're Beautiful!
- What the Lord Has Done in Me
- I Surrender All
- Mighty To Save
- Could I Be Called a Christian?
- Cry Out to Jesus
- Jesus, Be the Center
- God of Justice
- Love That Will Not Let Me Go
- I Will Offer Up My Life
- When It's All Been Said and Done
- Knowing You, Jesus
- In Christ Alone

Offering--Christmas Version

Over the skies of Bethlehem appeared a star
While angels sang to lowly shepherds
Three Wisemen seeking truth they traveled from afar
Hoping to find the Child from heaven
Falling on their knees they bowed before the humble Prince of Peace

I bring an offering of worship to my King
No one on earth deserves the praises that I sing
Jesus, may You receive the honor that You're due
O Lord I bring an offering to you

The sun cannot compare to the glory of Your love
There is no shadow in Your presence
No mortal man would dare to stand before Your throne
Before the Holy One of heaven
It's only by Your blood
It's only through Your mercy
Lord, I come

I bring an offering of worship to my King
No one on earth deserves the praises that I sing
Jesus, may You receive the honor that You're due
O Lord, I bring an offering to You
I bring an offering to You

Lord, my life is an offering to You.  I desire to honor You in all I do.  Thank You, Jesus, for being my Prince of Peace and King!

P.S. I am hosting 12 Pearls of Christmas from now to Dec. 25th.  The first post (a bonus post) is right below this one.  Please come back everyday to read different inspiring and touching stories written by well-known Christian female authors (Melody Carlson, Tricia Goyer, Susan May Warren, Dawn Meehan, Maureen Lang, Mary deMuth, Holley Gerth, and more...) and leave a comment for a chance to win a pearl necklace.


Previous Songs:
- How Many Kings
- Give Thanks
- When I Survey the Wondrous Cross
- He Knows My Name
- Oh Lord, You're Beautiful!
- What the Lord Has Done in Me
- I Surrender All
- Mighty To Save
- Could I Be Called a Christian?
- Cry Out to Jesus
- Jesus, Be the Center
- God of Justice
- Love That Will Not Let Me Go
- I Will Offer Up My Life
- When It's All Been Said and Done
- Knowing You, Jesus
- In Christ Alone

Thankful Thursday #7

 

This week...
1. I am thankful that the Lord has been working in me/my heart, enabling me to more readily extend His grace, mercy, and compassion (much needed especially when I start to get frustrated and don't know what to do) towards my challenging child who is gifted but possibly have Asperger's syndrome (from what we've researched).  I have been praying for more patience and for wisdom regarding how to understand, teach, train, encourage, and discipline him.  I would greatly appreciate your prayers for us.

2. I am thankful for words of encouragement, words of appreciation, and words of edification from my family, friends (including online friends), and anyone.  I truly appreciate all your kind, honest, and uplifting comments.  Thanks for taking the time to touch people's lives with your words.

3. I am thankful for a warm shelter, warm showers, warm blankets, and warm food.  These things remind me to pray for the homeless.  How hard and miserable it must be for them, especially when it's cold, windy, and wet out!  I encourage you all to support your local homeless shelters, soup kitchens, and to have some food/water supplies and/or extra blankets, coats, socks, etc. available in your vehicles to give out to the homeless whom you may meet on the streets.

4. I am thankful that my children have embraced modesty since they were young.  Modesty is Biblical and beautiful. 

5. I am thankful that the Lord has blessed me through winning blog giveaways.  This month, I have won a book, a DVD, and a $25 e-gift card to an online printing store.  Speaking of giveaways, I am hosting one at my HSB blog.  You have a chance to win a Yoplait Kids Prize Pack.  Two winners will be randomly drawn this Saturday.  There are only 6 entries so far; therefore, you have a great chance for winning :).  Hope you'll stop by and enter!

What the Lord Has Done in Me

Note: Please turn off my music playlist at the bottom of this page before starting the video.
        What the Lord Has Done in Me by Hillsong

"Not that we are competent in ourselves to claim anything for ourselves, but our competence comes from God." (2 Corinthians 3:5)  Whatever good you see in me is what the Lord has done in me.  It's not about me; it's all about Him.

Hosanna to the Lamb that was slain in our place and rose again!  "The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him and said, "Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!"" (John 1:29)  "In a loud voice they sang: "Worthy is the Lamb, who was slain, to receive power and wealth and wisdom and strength and honor and glory and praise!"" (Revelation 5:12)

"Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit of life set me free from the law of sin and death." (Romans 8:1-2)  "So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed." (John 8:36)  Amen!  I am free and I can truly live because the Spirit of Christ lives in me.


Previous Songs:
- I Surrender All
- Mighty To Save
- Could I Be Called a Christian?
- Cry Out to Jesus
- Jesus, Be the Center
- God of Justice
- Love That Will Not Let Me Go
- I Will Offer Up My Life
- When It's All Been Said and Done
- Knowing You, Jesus
- In Christ Alone
- Be Thou My Vision

Thankful Thursday #1

 
This is my first time participating in the Thankful Thursday meme hosted by Sonya and the Thankful Thursday meme hosted by Laurie. 
I know most (if not all :)) of the things on my list are obvious but I still would like to mention them because they are very important in my life.

1. I am thankful for who God is...for all His attributes.
2. I am thankful for God's unconditional love, amazing grace, never-ending mercy, forgiveness, peace, joy, and strength. 
3. I am thankful for my salvation through Jesus Christ, my Lord & Savior, my Shepherd & Best Friend.
4. I am thankful for my family.  The Lord has blessed me with the most wonderful husband (a man after God's own heart) and three precious children who delight in God and His Word.
5. I am thankful for God's Word which is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path.  I am thankful for the Bibles in print and the ones on CDs.  My boys listen to them at night in their bedroom.

"It is impossible for that man to despair who remembers that His Helper is omnipotent." ~Jeremy Taylor (1613-1667)
"If we can trust God for our eternal salvation, how can we not trust Him to provide for the "little" things of life?" ~M.E.Howard

God of Justice

Note: Please turn off my music playlist at the bottom of this page before starting the video.



God of Justice by Tim Hughes

God of Justice, Saviour to all
Came to rescue the weak and the poor
Chose to serve and not be served

Jesus, You have called us
Freely we've received
Now freely we will give

We must go...live to feed the hungry
Stand beside the broken
We must go

Stepping forward keep us from just singing
Move us into action
We must go

To act justly everyday
Loving mercy in every way
Walking humbly before You God

You have shown us what You require
Freely we've received
Now freely we will give

Fill us up and send us out
Fill us up and send us out
Fill us up and send us out, Lord


"Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be your slave--just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many." Matthew 20:26b-28

"Freely you have received, freely give." Matthew 10:8b

"He has showed you, O man, what is good.  And what does the Lord require of you?  To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God." Micah 6:8

"Therefore, go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.  And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age." Matthew 28:19-20
"He said to them, 'Go into all the world and preach the good news to all creation." Mark 16:15

"Then the King will say to those on His right, 'Come, you who are blessed by My Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world.  For I was hungry and you gave Me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave Me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited Me in, I needed clothes and you clothed Me, I was sick and you looked after Me, I was in prison and you came to visit Me.'  Then the righteous will answer Him, 'Lord, when did we see You hungry and feed You, or thirsty and give You something to drink?  When did we see You a stanger and invite You in, or needing clothes and clothe You?  When did we see You sick or in prison and go to visit You?'  The King will reply, 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of Mine, you did for Me.'" Matthew 25:34-40

Lord, please fill us up with Your Holy Spirit, Your love & compassion and send us out to share Your love and the Good News with people in need (physically and spiritually).  Lord, please keep us from just singing, thinking, talking, desiring; please move us into action.  We must go!  John Piper said, "Go, Send, or Disobey."  I agree.


Previous Songs:
- Love That Will Not Let Me Go
- I Will Offer Up My Life
- When It's All Been Said and Done
- Knowing You, Jesus
- In Christ Alone
- Be Thou My Vision

When It's All Been Said And Done

Note: Please turn off my music playlist at the bottom of this page before starting the video.

When It's All Been Said And Done (Words and Music by Jim Cowan, Sung by Don Moen)

When it's all been said and done
There is just one thing that matters
Did I do my best to live for truth?
Did I live my life for You?

When it's all been said and done
All my treasures will mean nothing
Only what I've done
For love's reward
Will stand the test of time

Lord, Your mercy is so great
That You look beyond our weakness
And find purest gold in miry clay
Turning sinners into saints

I will always sing Your praise
Here on earth and ever after
For You've shown me heaven's my true home
When it's all been said and done
You're my life when life is gone

Lord, I live my life for You! I can never thank You enough for Your grace & mercy and Your love for me. I will always sing praises to You and You alone. My life is a gift from You and it's Yours; please use it for Your glory and according to Your will.

"I eagerly expect and hope that I will in no way be ashamed, but will have sufficient courage so that now as always Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death. For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain." Philippians 1:20-21

"If we live, we live to the Lord; and if we die, we die to the Lord. So, whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord." Romans 14:8

You have one life to live. How are you living your life? Will you have any regrets on your death bed? When it's all been said and done, can you say that you did your best to live for God? "Have you ever seen the little plaque that reads, "Only one life, 'twill soon be past, only what's done for Christ will last?" Well, that's not (all) what the poet wrote. The poet wrote this: "Only one life, 'twill soon be past, only what's done for Christ will last. And when I am dying, how happy I'll be, if the lamp of my life has been burned out for Thee." Do you think all Christians die happy? Not on your life! Some of them die as miserable as sinners. Why? Because they've misused their time and wasted their lives. Many of you have laid dying on a hospital bed and prayed, "Lord, if You would only spare me, I'll do this, that, or the other." Well, have you done it?" ~Leonard Ravenhill

We need to ask ourselves: Are we wasting away our lives? If you have never read Don't Waste Your Life by John Piper yet, I highly recommend it.

Previous Songs:

- Knowing You, Jesus

- In Christ Alone

- Be Thou My Vision