Welcome To The Christian Journeyman!

Welcome To The Christian Journeyman!
A CHRISTIAN TEACHING AND RESOURCE MINISTRY!

Monday, November 30, 2015

The Person We Ought To Be

"But we see Jesus, who was made a little lower than the angels, for the suffering of death crowned with glory and honor, that He, by the grace of God, might taste death for everyone." (Hebrews 2:9)

Why did Jesus come into the world?

When we look at the words here of the Hebrew writer, we see that Jesus came to this world to help man-kind be what they were meant to be. God created man , only a little less than himself, to have eternal fellowship with Him, and to have dominion over the earth.
(Genesis 1:28)

Jesus came to restore man, and bring him to the place where he was intended to be. It was through Christ's life, death, and glory, that He would restore man to what he was meant to be.

To bring this down to where you live, is to ask the question: How can you be restored to the person God intends for you to be? It is through accepting Jesus Christ as your Savior, and Lord of your life, that restoration comes.

It begins when we repent of our sins, and allow the Lord Jesus Christ to cleanse us of our sins, in the waters of baptism. (Acts 2:38) And from that time forward, we allow the Lord to build our lives according to His Word, and Will.

The person we ought to be, is not found in the work of ourselves, but in the work of Jesus Christ.
He will help us to be, what God intends for us to be, now and forever.  GP

 Photo ID 5026438 © Jhdt Stock Images Llc | Dreamstime.com

Wednesday, November 25, 2015

The Precious Path

"Jesus said to him (Thomas) "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me." (John 14:6)

 From the time we took our first steps, we have been on a journey.
As the Heavenly Father as placed us on this "precious path", Jesus is holding His arms out, waiting for us to arrive in His arms, safe, and blessed for eternity. He is waiting to take us to our Heavenly Father.

Many, many people have made other plans for the end of this life journey, and there are those who have not made any plans at all.
When this life is over, where will you be? What is your eternal destination?

Someone who hired a guide to take him through the jungle asked him "where the road was?" The guide replied: "I am the road!" 

If we place our lives in Jesus Christ, He will be the way to heaven, as we obey His Word, and live according to His Will. In this life path, there is much deception given by our enemy Satan. But Jesus is the truth, and will always lead us in the right way. And finally, Jesus is the gift of eternal life, with the Heavenly Father.

You may think, that you can live the way you want to, and do the things that suit you, instead of doing the will of the Lord Jesus Christ. But if you were to die to this life today, than what? Where would you be?

Get on this "precious path" to Jesus today, and be ready to receive the most precious gift God has to give: Life everlasting! GP

Photo by hinnamsaisuy. Published on 19 November 2010 Stock photo - Image ID: 10022944

Monday, November 23, 2015

The Greatest Blessing

"For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord." (Romans 6:23) 

We are encouraged by the song "Count Your Many Blessings" to be mindful of all the good things God has provided for us in our lives. When we start doing that, we find that the list is long.

But there is one blessing that out shines them all, and is named in our text. That is "eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord." Instead of receiving the wages for our sinful activity, we are receiving this wonderful gift, of eternal life.

This is not a work that we do, but it is a step that we take. A step of faith. As the gift is extended, through our faith, our heart, and our our life receives it. We turn away from our selfish worldly sinful life, and embrace a new life in Jesus Christ, which is abundant and eternal.

We can name a lot of blessings that have to do with our well-being here on planet earth. But this gift, this blessing, is regarding our future. Apart from God, we have no future, although there are a lot of people who are not even considering this fact.

Sin leads to death. An eternal separation from God, who holds all that is good, instead of evil, in His hands. Do we want to eternally be in this kind of a state?

This gift is available to all who will call on the Lord for it. Receive it today, and embrace the most wonderful blessing of all! GP

 Photo by antpkr. Published on 25 July 2013 Stock photo - Image ID: 100186533
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Friday, November 20, 2015

Doorkeeper In Worship Or Dweller In Wickedness?

"For a day in your courts is better than a thousand elsewhere. I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God than dwell in the tents of wickedness." 
(Psalm 84:10)

 As Christians, do we really value going to church? Do we really see it as a real boost to our spiritual growth?

*"A recent Barna Survey said church attendance has been declining nationwide over the past 10 years. The March 25, 2014, report states regular church attendance has declined from 43 percent in 2004 to 36 percent in 2014.Sept 27, 2015. (*Rick L. Stonestreet From page C3 | September 27, 2015)

There are various reasons why people attend, and don't attend church services. The Psalmist in our text, expresses a strong desire to be in the Lord's house to worship Him. Even if his role was to be a caretaker in the temple, he would rather do this, than to visit the places of wickedness, and be involved in sinful activities.

It was a priority in his life to be faithful in his attendance to worship the Lord. The question should never be: "What will I get out of this? The question should always be:"What can I give, as I come to worship the Lord? And in our offering of our attendance, as well as our talent and money, we will receive back so much more. When worship is looked at as a privilege, and a priority, it becomes a true blessing for our lives.  GP

 Photo: Gary Patterson Photo ©

Wednesday, November 18, 2015

The Pursuit Of Our Purpose

"Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.." (Matthew 28:19) 

You have a church business meeting.
You may talk about several things that hopefully are directed to accomplishing a purpose.

The purpose of the meeting should always be placed on the foundation of the purpose of the church. It is important that spiritual leaders in the church, remind the members, not just in committee meetings, but in one on one interactions, what the purpose of the church is. From the Bible, What does the Lord Jesus Christ want us to accomplish?

Our text is apart of the Great Commission. the purpose of the church is to "make disciples of all nations" To evangelize the world for Christ.
And that means, right where we are as well.

Too often the main purpose of the church is side-tracked by minor petty concerns. And churches have split, and closed, over minor, petty concerns.

For example: Does the planning of music for worship have something to do with the "making of disciples?" Yes! We need to keep in mind that during the worship service there may be those who have not given their lives to Jesus Christ. What music will help in leading them to a decision?

Everything thing that is planned, should point to the accomplishing of our Lord's purpose for us as a church. It is a serious matter, and will take a disciplined effort. But in so doing, we will accomplish the main purpose Christ has for us, and bring us closer together as a body of believers. GP

Photo by nonicknamephoto. Published on 24 February 2014 Stock photo - Image ID: 100239046
www.freedigitalphotos.net

Tuesday, November 17, 2015

Courage And Camaraderie

*Florent A. Groberg (born May 8, 1983) is a medically retired American military officer and civilian employee of the U.S. Department of Defense. Born in France to an American father and French-Algerian mother, he became a naturalized U.S. citizen in 2001. He renounced his French citizenship prior to joining the U.S Army in 2008. He served in the U.S. Army during the War in Afghanistan, where in August 2012, he was severely injured attempting to thwart a suicide bomber. On November 12, 2015, Groberg received the Medal of Honor for his heroic action in Afghanistan.(*Wikipedia)
I hope you will take time to read his story of courage and camaraderie.

"Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ." (Galatians 6:2)

As Christians, we are in a battle against Satan, and against evil. It is vitally important that we love each other, and encourage each other, as we pursue the purpose of Jesus Christ. The church is a mighty army for the Lord. The love and support of each member is essential if we are to stay the course, and fight the good fight of faith.

Let us never forget that we are brothers and sisters in Christ. It is not our blood that links us together, but the blood of Christ (that cleansed us all of our sins) that binds us together. And the support we give each other in Christ, will help us to stand up to an enemy, that is constantly wanting to destroy us! GP

 Photo ID 37045543 © Kashamalasha | Dreamstime.com

Monday, November 16, 2015

An Answer

Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; For You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me." (Psalm 23:4) 

We ask that you keep the families of the victims of the terrorist attack in Paris, in your prayers.

This question will be asked over and over: "Why would God allow this type of thing to happen?" "Where is God in all of this?"
In our text I noticed something that David said in regard to the world we live in. It is not hard to recognize, because it is everywhere. It has been everywhere, ever since time began. What is it? It is "Evil!"

Like David, every moment of our lives, we are walking with the shadow of death around us, because of the evil that surrounds us.  David said, even though it is around us, he would not fear it. Why? Because he was in the wonderful care of the Good Shepherd.

For us as Christians, this isn't our home. This isn't the place where we are going to stay. We are just passing through, to our heavenly home. While we are walking in Satan's environment, anything could happen, and it does.

So what is the answer for our security? Where can we find peace, as we walk through this evil, violent world? This security, this peace, is only found in a relationship with Jesus Christ, our Good Shepherd.

We can know without a doubt, that if we are taken out of this life, because of the evil that surrounds us, Jesus awaits, to welcome us home. (John 14:1-3) And that is not just words; that is a faithful promise from the one, who died a violent death, so we could have an abundant, eternal life! (GP)

Photo: D 26649854 © Muhadib64 | Dreamstime.com

Friday, November 13, 2015

When Will We Get It?

"For there is no distinction between Jew and Greek; for the same Lord is Lord of all, bestowing his riches on all who call on him." (Romans 10:12) 

*"Across the nation, students, faculty and staff at universities are protesting racism on campuses. Weeks of protest at the University of Missouri led to the president, Tim Wolfe, and chancellor, R. Bowen Loftin, stepping down this week. Ithaca College's student newspaper, The Ithacan, has drawn parallels to the movement on its campus and the University of Missouri movement." (*ithacajournal.com)

 Can we say that in America, racism is an old story, with a new twist? Now on college campuses, we are seeing the issue arise again. If there was ever a time when we need to turn to the Lord, for direction, it is now.

With the Lord, even though there are differences, there is no distinction between color, nationality, and culture. "The same Lord, bestows His riches on whoever calls on Him."  If the God of the universe is not partial, how can we be? On the College campuses, the lessons should be taught, and examples should be shown.

We are all people who have blood flowing through our veins, and a spirit that can connect with the one and only Holy Spirit. It's time to finally get this truth, and maintain it 100%. When will we finally get it? GP

Photo by Ambro. Published on 04 December 2011 Stock photo - Image ID: 10066146

Thursday, November 12, 2015

Worthless? Or Worthwhile?

"For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope." (Jeremiah 29:11)

 Have there been times in your life, when you felt like you were not worth anything? No one cared about what you thought, or what you were doing? I'm sure that all of us have felt that way from time to time. It is disturbing when someone feels that way all the time.

As I have mentioned several times in the articles I have written:
"No one is perfect, and we all have made mistakes." "We all have made people unhappy with us, because of something we said or did."

Are we not blessed to know, that our awesome God is a loving and forgiving God, and His plans for us, is not abandonment, but involvement. It is not evil that God intends for us, but our welfare that He is most concerned about. If we could be like that towards others, what a difference it would make in our world, and the whole world.

Instead of being angry, and disconnected to those we are having problems with, why not be like God, and work towards helping people to overcome their problems. If the goal of each individual would be to help others to have a future and a hope, what a difference it would make in our relationships.

In spite of our faults, and sins, God loves us, and wants the best for us. I believe that is called "Grace!" And "Grace" helps us to feel worthwhile, instead of worthless!GP

Photo ID 45322872 © Rawpixelimages | Dreamstime.com

Wednesday, November 11, 2015

An Inspiration To Us

"And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance, for you serve the Lord Christ." (Colossians 3:23-24)

 I have never served in the military, but I want to take this opportunity to say thank you to all the men and women who have, and who are serving our Country today! Thank you for your sacrifice and service! We enjoy the freedoms, and opportunities this nation has to offer, because of your efforts to keep us safe and free.

Even though I was never in service of our Country, I have been in service for my Lord Jesus Christ. On my ordination certificate it says: "Minister Of Christ." I am proud to be a pastor, (even though like a soldier) there have been battles to fight. I am thankful to the Lord, for giving me the strength to not give up, but to keep serving to the best of my ability. It has been a privilege to work in this area of Christian service.

Our men and women in uniform are an inspiration to us, because they serve heartily, and give of themselves 100%. May we in the church take note of the discipline and determination.

We have a great work to do, especially in this day and time. Our reward is awaiting us, when the good fight of faith is done. Souls are needing to claim Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord. We need to be there with the call of the Gospel, and the assistance needed to help them become apart of the Kingdom of God, now and forever!GP

 Photo ID 49856778 © Jitdreamstime | Dreamstime.com

Tuesday, November 10, 2015

Mentioning Our Mistakes

"Whoever conceals his transgressions will not prosper, but he who confesses and forsakes them will obtain mercy." (Proverbs 28:13)

Are you good at admitting that you have made a mistake?

Many people after they have made a blunder, act as if nothing happened. Everyone makes mistakes, and no one is perfect, except the Son of God.

But what good does it do to admit our responsibility in causing an error in our lives? According to our text, if we conceal our transgressions, we will not prosper. We will continually be under the disciplinary eye of God.

God is not pleased when we transgress, and even more displeased, when we hide it, and go on as if we did nothing wrong. All kinds of repercussions will develop because of our unwillingness to own up to our mistakes.

But on the other side of the coin, our text tells us, that when we do make confession that we were wrong, there will be mercy. God will forgive us, and others are supposed to forgive us,
(which doesn't always happen), but at least we place ourselves in a position to receive it.

God wants us to do right according to His Word, and to make it right, when we don't. Owning up to our mistakes will bring peace to our hearts, and bring peace to our relationships.
It is an act of humility that will truly produce good results in our lives. GP

 Photo by stockimages. Published on 16 January 2015 Stock photo - Image ID: 100305357
www.freedigitalphotos.net

Thursday, November 5, 2015

At Church

"For the sake of the house of the Lord our God, I will seek your good." (Psalm 122:9) What is your attitude when you come to church? People come to church with various motives and goals. Some look at coming to church as being apart of a social club, and they look for that opportunity to climb that social ladder. Others look at coming to church as a way to show off what they have, and to contend for power and prestige. Others come to be entertained, by the programs, and the people participating in those programs.
 *"How the people loved Jerusalem! it was a holy place because the temple was there, an honored place because David's throne was there, and a happy place because the tribes were there to celebrate the greatness and goodness of God. (*Warren Wiersbe - With The Word Devotional Commentary - Psalm 122) The church is not the building, but the people of God. We come together first and foremost to worship God. And how we act at church is very important. When we come together, in our actions, we are to fulfill the two greatest commandments. To love God, and to love others.(Matthew 22:34-40) May it be seen that our love for God is not just giving lip service, but is sincere. And may our concern for each other, in this time of worship and fellowship, be sincere as well. We are the family of God. And family members are to love and support each other, as we take on the work that the Lord has called us to do. (Matthew 28:18-20) May we all say with love and humility: "I was glad when they said to me, "Let us go into the house of the Lord," (Psalm 122:1) GP
 Photo ID 54603173 © Treentya | Dreamstime.com

Wednesday, November 4, 2015

The Bible Teacher

"And though the Lord give you the bread of adversity and the water of affliction, yet your Teacher will not hide himself anymore, but your eyes shall see your Teacher."(Isaiah 30:20)
Just how important is your role as a Bible teacher? Do you look at it as just a Sunday morning event, or a mid-week event?
How much of an affect can you have on your students? God spoke through the prophet Isaiah, and told the people of Judah, that even though they will go through adversity and affliction, (because of nations like Assyria who threatened them) they will have teachers to guide them, if they will listen, and submit to the Word of the Lord. If you are a Bible teacher, you have an awesome responsibility and opportunity. You have the rewarding task of giving your students, the Divine Words For life. A guide for all aspects of life. What you share will have great impact on the way your students will look at life, and the decisions they will make, that will affect their lives in the future. It is beyond the classroom, and outside the walls of the church, that your teaching and example can be seen and heard. It is an opportunity to pour the Word of God into the hearts of others. Let's not just be filling a position, but let's enthusiastically be accepting a calling. A calling to be used by God, to provide a Bible education, and an example that people need, as they go through each day of their lives. GP
ID 40571158 © Roberto Machado Noa | Dreamstime.com

Tuesday, November 3, 2015

Others










"Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, 
but also the interests of others" (Philipppians 2:4)
“Others” By Charles D. Meigs
(written sometime between 1890 and 1902)

Lord help me live from day to day
In such a self-forgetful way
That even when I kneel to pray
My prayer shall be for – Others.

 Help me in all the work I do
To ever be sincere and true
And know that all I do for you
Must needs be done for – Others.

 Let “Self” be crucified and slain
And buried deep; and all in vain
May efforts be to rise again
Unless to live for – Others.

 And when my work on earth is done
And my new work in heaven’s begun
May I forget the crown I’ve won
While thinking still of – Others.

 Others, Lord, yes others
Let this my motto be
Help me to live for others
That I may live like Thee.

 Photo by stockimages.
Published on 25 September 2012 Stock photo - Image ID: 100103599
www.freedigitalphotos.net