Factoring the Truth into Your Life

Psalms 28:1-2

noreply@blogger.com (John) — Fri, 05 Jan 2007 12:22:00 +0000

Suggested Reading: Psalms 28

During his life here on this earth, a Christian will face many trials and obstacles. There are times when these trials and obstacles will come because of his Christianity. There will also be times when these trials will be completely unrelated to his Christianity. Life for a Christian is funny that way.

The important fact for a Christian to always remember is this: The trials of life will make him stronger. James wrote, "My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing. " (James 1:2-4) James understood this crucial fact.

The psalmist David understood that his source of strength during trying times was always God. David would offer up "supplications" and would "cry" out to the Lord. In short, King David knew to pray to God, his source of strength. Every Christian needs to offer up "supplications" to their heavenly Father. They must keep their faith in God and always trust in Him.

Here is Psalms 28:1-2 presented for your consideration.

1 A Psalm of David. To You I will cry, O Lord my Rock: Do not be silent to me, Lest, if You are silent to me, I become like those who go down to the pit.
2 Hear the voice of my supplications When I cry to You, When I lift up my hands toward Your holy sanctuary.

Sincerely,

John Duvall

Hebrews 4:1-3

noreply@blogger.com (John) — Wed, 03 Jan 2007 12:22:00 +0000

Suggested Reading: Hebrews 3:7 - 4:10

A person, who was under bondage to sin, being set free by from the blood of Christ, begins a journey, heading towards the promise land. As a Christian, this person must continue to serve the Lord every day of his life. Every day of his life will be filled with opportunities to serve the Lord and obey His word.

During the life of this Christian, there will be many obstacles to be avoided while traveling the road to heaven. There will be people who will discourage such faithful dedication. There will be jobs, strangers, situations, etc. which all will work to "sidetrack" this Christian from the road to everlasting life with God. This Christian must keep his eyes on the promise land that awaits him on the other side of death.

The Lord God was faithful to His people, the Israelites, and brought them out of their Egyptian bondage. God led the Israelites into the wilderness and was willing to take them to their promised land. However, due to their disobedience, a whole generation of people died in the wilderness, never entering the promise land. (cf. Hebrews 3:7-19)

In Hebrews 4:1-3, Christians have the following promise: "Therefore, since a promise remains of entering His rest, let us fear lest any of you seem to have come short of it . . . (3) For we who have believed do enter that rest, . . ." If a Christian will faithfully follow the Lord to the end of his life, then he will enter that promise rest.

Sincerely,

John M. Duvall

James 4:5-10

noreply@blogger.com (John) — Thu, 10 Aug 2006 12:23:00 +0000

Dear Brethren,

The only way for any person to enter into heaven is by turning to and following the Lord Jesus Christ. The person who desires eternal life must first be saved, thereby becoming a child of God. However, obedience to God's word requires a person to submit themselves to God. Submitting to God means that a person must be willing to do whatever the Bible teaches.

For instance, if a person is not saved, then he must submit to the teachings of Jesus. Consider as an example Mark 16:15-16 which reads, "And He said to them, 'Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature. He who believes and is baptized will be saved; but he who does not believe will be condemned.'" The words of Jesus are clear and simple. Submitting to these teachings will bring salvation.

Too often, even within the lives of Christians, submitting to the Lord can be hindered by worldly temptations and desires. The person who would be saved must make the conscience desire to submit to the Lord and His teachings. Without such a determination, faithful obedience to the Lord will not be found. As James wrote, "Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you." Here is James 4:5-10 presented for your consideration.

5 Or do you think that the Scripture says in vain, “The Spirit who dwells in us yearns jealously”?
6 But He gives more grace. Therefore He says: “God resists the proud, But gives grace to the humble.”
7 Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you.
8 Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners; and purify your hearts, you double-minded.
9 Lament and mourn and weep! Let your laughter be turned to mourning and your joy to gloom.
10 Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and He will lift you up.

In Love,

John Duvall

Matthew 19:4-6

noreply@blogger.com (John) — Wed, 09 Aug 2006 15:48:00 +0000

Dear Brethren,

The separation of a husband and his wife is a terrible thing. Such a separation can lead to the severing of the wedding union. While such divorces are common place today, such devastation is still against God's will for the husband and the wife. When a man and woman enters into marriage, it is to be for the remainder of their living days. Jesus said, "Therefore what God has joined together, let not man separate."

Quite often, the separation of a husband and his wife begins with a smaller element. For instance, if someone or something comes between the husband and his wife, the seed for separation may be planted. The separating element could be a person who comes between those joined in union. The element could also be a job, a hobby, money, a mother or father-in-law, or even the children. Yes, the children can also come between a husband and his wife if they allow it to happen.

The husband and wife must always keep God at the center of their relationship, letting everyone else stay outside their circle. With such a union and a commitment, the husband and wife relationship will last until the final days of their lives. Here is Matthew 19:4-6 presented for your consideration.

4 And He answered and said to them, “Have you not read that He who made them at the beginning ‘made them male and female,’
5 and said, ‘For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh’ ?
6 So then, they are no longer two but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let not man separate.”

In Love,

John Duvall

Luke 1:1-4

noreply@blogger.com (John) — Tue, 08 Aug 2006 12:47:00 +0000

Dear Brethren,

Most people want to hear an accurate accounting of any given factual story. When a person watches a news program on television, he expects to hear the facts. Any news journalist who fabricates any element of a news story will have a short lived job as a journalist. A news journalist must report the facts.

While all scriptures in the Bible have been given by God (2 Timothy 3:16), the gospel account written by Luke records Luke's intent to accurately present the facts regarding the life of Jesus Christ. Luke took the job of setting "in order a narrative of those things which" had been fulfilled. In order to accomplish this task, Luke spoke with "eyewitnesses and ministers of the word," which enabled Luke to have a "perfect understanding of all things from the very first." Luke then sent this "narrative," this "orderly account," to an acquaintance named Theophilus. Because of Luke's efforts, we have a fourth gospel account of the life and death of Jesus Christ, an account which we can trust, just as we trust all the written word of God. Here is Luke 1:1-4 presented for your consideration.

1 Inasmuch as many have taken in hand to set in order a narrative of those things which have been fulfilled among us,
2 just as those who from the beginning were eyewitnesses and ministers of the word delivered them to us,
3 it seemed good to me also, having had perfect understanding of all things from the very first, to write to you an orderly account, most excellent Theophilus,
4 that you may know the certainty of those things in which you were instructed.

In Love,

John Duvall

Psalms 103:1-5

noreply@blogger.com (John) — Mon, 07 Aug 2006 12:23:00 +0000

Dear Brethren,

What has the Lord done for you? Have you ever given thought to the blessings given by the Lord? Look first at the physical blessings of your life. The Lord is the very reason you have life in your physical body. He is the reason you have a beating heart and a complex mind. He has given you life. Consider also you abilities, your passions, your desires, and even your family: these all exist because of the life given you by God.

What about the spiritual blessings found within Jesus Christ? For Christians, these spiritual blessings abound. Starting with the forgiveness of sins to a life of fellowship with the Father in heaven, these blessings flow through a Christian's life. James wrote, "Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow of turning." (James 1:17) Here is Psalms 103:1-5 presented for your consideration.

1 Bless the Lord, O my soul; And all that is within me, bless His holy name!
2 Bless the Lord, O my soul, And forget not all His benefits:
3 Who forgives all your iniquities, Who heals all your diseases,
4 Who redeems your life from destruction, Who crowns you with lovingkindness and tender mercies,
5 Who satisfies your mouth with good things, So that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s.

In Love,

John Duvall

Philippians 4:4-7

noreply@blogger.com (John) — Wed, 02 Aug 2006 13:24:00 +0000

Dear brethren,

Gratitude is the state of being grateful. Grateful is defined as "appreciative of benefits received." (Merriam-Webster Online) When someone helps you, how do you respond? Are you grateful? Are you appreciative of what that person has done? Being appreciative goes much deeper than simply saying, "Thank you." Appreciation for something someone has done for you should begin with the heart. Gratitude can only exist if a person truly feels thankful.

However, there are some people who expect kind deeds from other people. They believe it is the responsibility of other people to help them, to provide things for them. They will, with empty words, say, "Thank you," but as soon as you stop helping them, they become angry and turn against you. This is the heart of a "user" where "gratitude" exists only when their selfish desires are met.

A Christian should be the most grateful of all people. When a person is baptized into Jesus Christ, (Galatians 3:26-27) all their past sins are washed away (Acts 22:16). This gift of salvation (Romans 6:23) is a gift greater than all other gifts. Because of this blessing, as well as other blessings, a Christian should offer thanks to the heavenly Father. Offering of thanks to the Father in heaven must be a daily part of a Christian's life. Here is Philippians 4:4-7 presented for your consideration.

4 Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say, rejoice!
5 Let your gentleness be known to all men. The Lord is at hand.
6 Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God;
7 and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

In Love,

John Duvall

Acts 17:10-12

noreply@blogger.com (John) — Tue, 01 Aug 2006 12:55:00 +0000

Dear Brethren,

Reception to the word of God varies from person to person. There are some people who will listen to God's word and give it due consideration. They will search the scriptures and weigh the teachings found in the Bible. Then, after they have studied the Bible, they will choose to follow its teachings. On the other hand, there are those people have no interest in the Bible. To them, it is a book that is of no interest to them. Somewhere in between, there are people who would like to study the Bible and learn more about righteousness, but they allow other distractions in their lives to hinder their efforts to study God's word.

When a person sets out to study God's word, he should not listen only to the words of man, but to the words of God. Throughout the world, there are millions of people who allow their "understanding" of the Bible to be dictated by some religious leader. There are even people who profess a belief in Christ without ever opening the Bible. They will listen only to what some preacher teachers. Every person, both Christians and those seeking Christ, should search the Scriptures daily to learn the truth and to confirm what others are teaching. Here is Acts 17:10-12 presented for your consideration.

10 Then the brethren immediately sent Paul and Silas away by night to Berea. When they arrived, they went into the synagogue of the Jews.
11 These were more fair-minded than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness, and searched the Scriptures daily to find out whether these things were so.
12 Therefore many of them believed, and also not a few of the Greeks, prominent women as well as men.

In Love,

John Duvall

Romans 6:12-14

noreply@blogger.com (John) — Fri, 28 Jul 2006 13:28:00 +0000

Dear Brethren,

What is sin? To put it simply, a sin is either doing something the Bible says not to do or not doing what the Bible says to do. Quite often you may hear a person caught in sin say, "I didn't do anything wrong." Many people, even Christians, will engage in sin and then deny that they did anything wrong. Regardless of his claim, if a person does something the Bible calls a sin, then he has done wrong.

One of the secrets to a Christian living a godly life is to overcome sin. In order for a Christian to overcome sin, he must make the decision not to let sin "reign" (or dominate) in his life. The Christian must say no to any and all temptations. With the attitude of not letting sin "reign" in his life, a Christian will be able to say no to all temptations. It is a matter of personal choice and decision. It is a matter of serving our heavenly Father. Here is Romans 6:12-14 presented for your consideration.

12 Therefore do not let sin reign in your mortal body, that you should obey it in its lusts.
13 And do not present your members as instruments of unrighteousness to sin, but present yourselves to God as being alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness to God.
14 For sin shall not have dominion over you, for you are not under law but under grace.

In Love,

John Duvall

Hebrews 2:1-4

noreply@blogger.com (John) — Thu, 27 Jul 2006 13:12:00 +0000

Dear Brethren,

There are many religious people who claim that God performs miracles through them. Turn on the television and you may find some man or woman touching some "sick" person on the head and saying, "Be healed!" At that point, the crowd begins to clap wildly while many people cry out, "Praise God! Praise God!" while the "healed" person falls backwards into the hands of the attendants. However, how real are these "miracles"? Do these "miracles" fit the purpose of miracles seen during the early days of the church?

The only way to answer the question of whether or not a "miracle" is real is to do a careful study of every "miracle." For instance, have medical verification of the existence of the cancer before the cancer victim goes to be healed. Then show the world the medical verification of the cancer being healed. Let a person with a clearly visible disease be healed. For instance, take a celebrity known by much of the world to be blind and let him be healed. That would be simple. Going to the local hospital and healing everyone present in the name of Jesus Christ would also get the attention of unbelievers as well. However, you and I both know that "miracles" of today do not operate in this fashion. Often times the "healing services" are very controlled as to who can be healed. Not just anyone can get in line to be healed by the visiting faith healer. Try it some time. Take a friend that you have known for years to be ill or afflicted to a "healing service" and insist that they be healed. See what happens.

What purposes did miracles serve in the early days of the church? The Bible clearly reveals this answer for us. Mark records the following in Mark 16:19-20: "19 So then, after the Lord had spoken to them, He was received up into heaven, and sat down at the right hand of God.
20 And they went out and preached everywhere, the Lord working with them and confirming the word through the accompanying signs. Amen." Miracles of the New Testament were performed to confirm what the apostles and teachers were teaching.

In the beginning of the church, the New Testament in written form as we have it today had not yet been compiled. Much of the early teaching relied upon men inspired by the Holy Spirit. Then, as the various writers penned their letters and books, men would copy these writings and distribute them among believers. Instead of telling the people to "turn in your Bibles to" a given passage for verification, the apostles would show God's approval of the teaching with miracles. Since we have the New Testament in written form today, there is no longer any need for modern day confirmation of what is taught. The Bible serves as confirmation itself with its records of miracles. Here is Hebrews 2:1-4 presented for your consideration.

1 Therefore we must give the more earnest heed to the things we have heard, lest we drift away.
2 For if the word spoken through angels proved steadfast, and every transgression and disobedience received a just reward,
3 how shall we escape if we neglect so great a salvation, which at the first began to be spoken by the Lord, and was confirmed to us by those who heard Him,
4 God also bearing witness both with signs and wonders, with various miracles, and gifts of the Holy Spirit, according to His own will?

In Love,

John Duvall

Isaiah 5:20-21

noreply@blogger.com (John) — Wed, 26 Jul 2006 19:35:00 +0000

Dear Brethren,

Followers of God will follow the Bible, the one true standard of right and wrong. Through His Word, the Lord has given a standard by which man should guide his life. The apostle Paul wrote to Timothy, "All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work." (2 Timothy 3:16-17, NKJV) Those who follow God's word will govern their lives, their actions, and their thoughts, by the Word which will judged them in the day of judgment. Jesus said, "He who rejects Me, and does not receive My words, has that which judges him— the word that I have spoken will judge him in the last day." (John 12:48, NKJV)

Mankind would do well to heed the warning found in the book of Isaiah. There are many differing ideas regarding what is right and what is wrong. Some people go so far as to say that no one really has the right to say what is wrong and what is wrong for someone else. Every person must make his or her own decision regarding right and wrong, some would say. However, this way of thinking has created a generation of people who do not feel bound by standards of right and wrong. They are free to do their own thing without expected consequence. They will call evil good and good evil. Here is Isaiah 5:20-21 presented for your consideration.

20 Woe to those who call evil good, and good evil; Who put darkness for light, and light for darkness; Who put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter!
21 Woe to those who are wise in their own eyes, And prudent in their own sight!

In Love,

John Duvall

Ephesians 5:25-28

noreply@blogger.com (John) — Mon, 24 Jul 2006 19:01:00 +0000

Dear Brethren,

One of the key elements to a successfu marriage is love. However, not just any love will do. The love between the husband and the wife must be a God established love; a love that is selfless and unconditional. While this type of love may seem unreasonable and unrealistic to some people, it is, nevertheless, required for a sucessful and happy marriage.

For families who follow the Bible, the spousal love taught by God is a love that grows daily within their relationship. It is a love fashioned after the love Christ had for the church. It is a love of self-sacrifice; a love composed of care, concern, and compassion. Every husband and wife should carefully examine their love for one another to see if their love measures up to the love established in God's holy word. Here is Ephesians 5:25-28 presented for your consideration.

25 Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself for her,
26 that He might sanctify and cleanse her with the washing of water by the word,
27 that He might present her to Himself a glorious church, not having spot or wrinkle or any such thing, but that she should be holy and without blemish.
28 So husbands ought to love their own wives as their own bodies; he who loves his wife loves himself.

In Love,

John Duvall

1 Peter 5:8-11

noreply@blogger.com (John) — Thu, 20 Jul 2006 12:28:00 +0000

Dear Brethren,

"The enemy approaches!" shouts the soldier looking out over the ridge. "Prepare for battle!!" is the cry heard throughout the ranks. The soldiers ready their weapons and take their positions. Their hearts pound as they watch and wait for the enemy to attack. These men have spent years training for this battle. They are ready. They are willing. With the first shot and the first life given in duty, the battle begins . . .

Okay, so I am not a novelist. However, the above would appear to describe one small battle in a raging war. A battle between two opposing sides. However, the above could also illustrate a greater battle taking place all around us. It is a battle between good and evil, a battle between the "army of the Lord" and Satan. While a Christian's battle against Satan is not with swords or guns, it is a spiritual and physical battle. Satan will try to "devour" Christians, attacking them with physical and emotional temptations, trying to weaken their spiritual resolve to serve the Lord. Satan will try to tempt a Christian at his weakest moment, a time when his resolve wavers.

Christians must be vigilant or watchful. Christians must never let their guard down. They must always be prepared for Satan to attack through various means and temptations. If the Christian will be prepared when Satan strikes, then, by resisting Satan, the Christian will overcome this enemy. Here is 1 Peter 5:8-11 presented for your consideration.

1 Peter 5:8-11

8 Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour.
9 Resist him, steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same sufferings are experienced by your brotherhood in the world.
10 But may the God of all grace, who called us to His eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after you have suffered a while, perfect, establish, strengthen, and settle you.
11 To Him be the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen.

In Love,

John Duvall

1 Peter 2:11-12

noreply@blogger.com (John) — Wed, 19 Jul 2006 12:45:00 +0000

Dear Brethren,

The life of a Christian is that of a person on a long journey. After this traveler is born, he begins his journey in a foreign land while his citizenship lies elsewhere. For this traveler, this pilgrim, it is crucial that he does not become entangled in the affairs of the foreign land. No matter what happens, he must always remember his true home, the place of his citizenship.

For the Christian, his citizenship lies in heaven. In his letter to the church in Philippi, the apostle Paul wrote, "For our citizenship is in heaven, from which we also eagerly wait for the Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ." (Philippians 3:20, NKJV) Christians must always remember that their home is in heaven, the place of their citizenship. As a result, it is necessary that Christians keep themselves from getting entangled in the lusts of the world. Christians must recognize and acknowledge what the Bible declares to be wrong. They must seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness. (Matthew 6:33)

This world is filled with many temptations to lure Christians from the path to heaven, temptations from which Christians must abstain. Christians must keep their eye on the goal of heaven and on their service to God. Here is 1 Peter 2:11-12 presented for your consideration.

11 Beloved, I beg you as sojourners and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts which war against the soul,
12 having your conduct honorable among the Gentiles, that when they speak against you as evildoers, they may, by your good works which they observe, glorify God in the day of visitation.

In Love,

John Duvall

James 2:21-26

noreply@blogger.com (John) — Fri, 14 Jul 2006 15:37:00 +0000

Dear Brethren,

It is a Bible fact that a person cannot be saved without faith. However, is a person saved by faith only, as many within the religious world teach? According to the Bible, salvation or justification comes by faith and works. To say that works are not necessary to being saved is to contradict the teachings of the Bible. (Please understand that the works to which the Bible refers is faithful obedience to the Word of God.)

Quite often, this discussion is centered on becoming a Christian. However, once a person becomes a child of God, he must continue his life of faith and works. He must continue to believe and obey the Word of God. Jesus told His disciples, "Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven." (Matthew 7:21, NKJV) It would be just as wrong for a Christian to live his life claiming faith, but not obeying God's Word as it would be to teach that obedient works are not necessary to being saved. Truly faith and works are necessary to being justified. It is James who wrote, "You see then that a man is justified by works, and not by faith only." This teaching fits the pattern taught by Jesus Christ when He said to His apostles, "Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature. He who believes and is baptized will be saved; but he who does not believe will be condemned." (Mark 16:15-16, NKJV)

Here is James 2:21-26 presented for your consideration.

James 2:21-26

21 Was not Abraham our father justified by works when he offered Isaac his son on the altar?
22 Do you see that faith was working together with his works, and by works faith was made perfect?
23 And the Scripture was fulfilled which says, “Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness.” And he was called the friend of God.
24 You see then that a man is justified by works, and not by faith only.
25 Likewise, was not Rahab the harlot also justified by works when she received the messengers and sent them out another way?
26 For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also.

In Love,

John Duvall

James 1:9-11

noreply@blogger.com (John) — Thu, 13 Jul 2006 19:22:00 +0000

Dear Brethren,

There is nothing more important than money, or so some people would think. Quite often the possession of wealth or at least the appearance of wealth is very important to many people. However, in pursuing wealth, many people often neglect greater treasures such as family, friends, health, and of course, God. Although the Bible teaches the concept of working and earning money, it also teaches the concept of seeking first the kingdom of God. The Bible never condemns wealth; it condemns the love of wealth.

The problem with putting too much stock in wealth is the short term nature of wealth. Wealth will be with a person only a short time. I realize that in the hands of frugally minded people, wealth can grow; however, when that person dies, he will leave his wealth to someone else. As a result, wisdom demands that people focus on those concerns of greater importance. The greater of these concerns should be service to God. Such service requires a person to humble himself before God. This spirit of humility will enable the person to put God first within his life.

Here is James 1:9-11 presented for your consideration.

9 Let the lowly brother glory in his exaltation,
10 but the rich in his humiliation, because as a flower of the field he will pass away.
11 For no sooner has the sun risen with a burning heat than it withers the grass; its flower falls, and its beautiful appearance perishes. So the rich man also will fade away in his pursuits.

In Love,

John Duvall

Psalms 18:25-27

noreply@blogger.com (John) — Wed, 12 Jul 2006 13:14:00 +0000

Dear Brethren,

One of the greatest lessons in life is for a person to be treated the way he treats other people. These lessons, like mirrors, allow the viewer to see his true self. At times, these lessons can be reassuring and at other times, they can be quite disturbing, depending upon the reflection. If someone is treating another person badly, then, at somepoint, they will receive the same type of treatment. If a person is kind and helping towards other people, then other people will treat him with kindness and compassion. There are some people who do not understand these lessons of life. They will walk over other people, treating them deceitfully and with contempt. Yet, when the same treatment comes to them, they grow angry and learn nothing from these lessons. As a result, they continue on the path of self-destruction.

The greatest teacher of these lessons is the Lord. The Lord will surely treat people as they have treated others. If a person shows mercy, then the Lord will show that person mercy. If a person is devious, then he will have to deal with or wrestle with the Lord.

Here is Psalms 18:25-27 for your consideration.

25 With the merciful You will show Yourself merciful; With a blameless man You will show Yourself blameless;

26 With the pure You will show Yourself pure; And with the devious You will show Yourself shrewd.

27 For You will save the humble people, But will bring down haughty looks.

In Love,

John Duvall

1 Corinthians 10:6-13

noreply@blogger.com (John) — Tue, 11 Jul 2006 13:07:00 +0000

Dear Brethren,

Any person who walks the face of this wonderful earth has to face the challenges of diseases. Depending upon where a person lives will determine the number of diseases he must face. Due to various reasons, some diseases are more rampant in some countries than in other countries. However, there is one disease which has claimed thousands of lives throughout the world. This disease is known as arrogance.

Arrogance will often times prevent a person from admitting when he is wrong. Arrogance can affect a person's vision, limiting his "sight" to only what he wants to see. Arrogance also affects a person's hearing, making him "deaf" to the sound advice and instructions of others. This disease can be especially dangerous in the area of right and wrong. There are many people who will do something wrong, but will refuse to either admit to the deed or admit that such a deed was wrong.

In his first letter to the church in Corinth, in chapter 10, Paul warned the brethren to learn from the lessons of Israel. Despite all that God had done for Israel, the Israelites had refused to follow God. As a result, the Lord God punished Israel in the wilderness. Paul told the brethren in Corinth to take heed lest they also fall. This is a great lesson for all of us. If you suffer from the disease of arrogance, then humbly submit yourself to God and His Word.

Here is 1 Corinthians 10:6-13 presented for your consideration.

6 Now these things became our examples, to the intent that we should not lust after evil things as they also lusted.
7 And do not become idolaters as were some of them. As it is written, “The people sat down to eat and drink, and rose up to play.”
8 Nor let us commit sexual immorality, as some of them did, and in one day twenty-three thousand fell;
9 nor let us tempt Christ, as some of them also tempted, and were destroyed by serpents;
10 nor complain, as some of them also complained, and were destroyed by the destroyer.
11 Now all these things happened to them as examples, and they were written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the ages have come.

12 Therefore let him who thinks he stands take heed lest he fall.

13 No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it.

In Love,

John Duvall

Galatians 6:7-10

noreply@blogger.com (John) — Mon, 10 Jul 2006 14:13:00 +0000

Dear Brethren,

Helping other people is a part of a Christian's life. Hebrews 13:16 reads, "But do not forget to do good and to share, for with such sacrifices God is well pleased." In general, helping other people causes a person to feel good about what they have done. However, there are times when selfish and lazy people will abuse and take for granted a person's generosity. Such abuse can be quite painful to the person with a kind heart. When this happens, there is a temptation for the kindhearted person who is trying to do good to become disheartened and discouraged. No matter how many times a Christian may be emotionally injuried by other people abusing their good, the Christian must never grow weary in doing good.

Here is Galatians 6:7-10 presented for your consideration.

7 Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap.

8 For he who sows to his flesh will of the flesh reap corruption, but he who sows to the Spirit will of the Spirit reap everlasting life.

9 And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart.

10 Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith.

In Love,

John Duvall

Psalms 12:1-4

noreply@blogger.com (John) — Fri, 07 Jul 2006 13:07:00 +0000

Dear Brethren,

I would suspect that most of us would describe our friends as being reliable; people on whom we can depend. When the going gets tough, we know the people who will be there for us. However, there may be times within our lives when the trials and challenges around us draw a dark curtain of despair to our lives.

While these trials could be brought on by such sources as diseases, financial problems, and what some people may call “dumb luck” happenings, the trials which seem to do the most harm within our lives originates with ungodly people. There are people who will pretend to be your friend, people with “flattering lips and a double heart.” These people specialize in telling you what you want to hear. They will present themselves as the only one who will defend you and stand by you. They tell you how great and special you are in order to keep you on their side. However, when the time is right, like a snake, they will turn against you and deliver their venomous bite.

No matter what people do to us, we must never “disappear from among the sons of men.” We must never “cease” in our service to God. We must always stand strong.

Here is Psalms 12:1-4 presented for your consideration.

Psalm 12:1-4

1 Help, Lord, for the godly man ceases! For the faithful disappear from among the sons of men.

2 They speak idly everyone with his neighbor; With flattering lips and a double heart they speak.

3 May the Lord cut off all flattering lips, And the tongue that speaks proud things,

4 Who have said, “With our tongue we will prevail; Our lips are our own; Who is lord over us?”

In Love,

John Duvall

Acts 4:8-12

noreply@blogger.com (John) — Tue, 28 Feb 2006 15:36:00 +0000

Dear Brethren:

Nearly 2000 years ago, many people rejected Jesus, both before and after His death, burial, and resurrection. Today, the world has not changed; many people are still rejecting Jesus and His teachings. This rejection is tragic because Jesus did arise from the dead. Jesus has become the "chief cornerstone." In the name of Jesus is salvation found. There is no other name or authority by which a person can be saved.

As we go about our daily lives, let us do all that we can to teach people about Jesus Christ, the cornerstone. Let us teach our friends about the name of Christ, the only name wherein salvation is found.

Here is Acts 4:8-12 presented for your consideration.

Acts 4:8-12

8 Then Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, said to them, “Rulers of the people and elders of Israel:

9 If we this day are judged for a good deed done to a helpless man, by what means he has been made well,

10 let it be known to you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified, whom God raised from the dead, by Him this man stands here before you whole.

11 This is the ‘stone which was rejected by you builders, which has become the chief cornerstone.’

12 Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.”

In Love,

John Duvall

Mark 10:13-16

noreply@blogger.com (John) — Wed, 22 Feb 2006 12:26:00 +0000

Dear Brethren:

Children are amazing. They can be so honest and straight forward. At the same time, children are trusting and accepting. No matter what happens in life, children seem to be able to adapt and adjust.

The Lord desires His followers to be like children. Specifically, the Lord said, "Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of God." The kingdom of God is composed of people who look to the Lord with the trusting and acceptance of a little child. Those of the kingdom do not question the Lord; they simply obey Him.

As Christians, we must always continue to be as children in our service unto God. We must continue to trust the Lord, obeying Him without fail. Let us live as children of God should live.

Mark 10:13-16

13 Then they brought little children to Him, that He might touch them; but the disciples rebuked those who brought them.

14 But when Jesus saw it, He was greatly displeased and said to them, “Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of God.

15 Assuredly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child will by no means enter it.”

16 And He took them up in His arms, laid His hands on them, and blessed them.

In Love,

John Duvall

Psalm 125

noreply@blogger.com (John) — Fri, 17 Feb 2006 12:33:00 +0000

Dear Brethren:

Do you trust in the Lord? If you truly trust in the Lord, then you cannot be moved. The write of Psalms 125 wrote, "Those who trust in the Lord are like Mount Zion, which cannot be moved, but abides forever." As long as we trust in the Lord, then no one can move us from our spiritual stance and position. Trusting in the Lord serves as an anchor to keep us stationary in our fellowship with the Lord.

If you trust in the Lord, then the Lord will surround you and protect you. The writer of Psalm 125 continued, saying, "As the mountains surround Jerusalem, so the Lord surrounds His people from this time forth and forever." What a great comfort to know that the Lord surrounds us, protecting us from enemies who would try to take away our freedom. The Lord will protect and defend those who serve Him and who are "upright in heart."

Here is Psalm 125 presented for your consideration.

Psalm 125

1 Those who trust in the LORD Are like Mount Zion, Which cannot be moved, but abides forever.

2 As the mountains surround Jerusalem, So the LORD surrounds His people From this time forth and forever.

3 For the scepter of wickedness shall not rest On the land allotted to the righteous, Lest the righteous reach out their hands to iniquity.

4 Do good, O LORD, to those who are good, And to those who are upright in their hearts.

5 As for such as turn aside to their crooked ways, The LORD shall lead them away With the workers of iniquity. Peace be upon Israel!

In Love,

John Duvall

John 1:29-36

noreply@blogger.com (John) — Thu, 16 Feb 2006 13:20:00 +0000

Dear Brethren:

In the beginning of John's gospel account, in chapter 1, John refered to Jesus as the "Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world." In the book of Revelation, John, in a vision, saw Jesus appearing as a Lamb that had been slain. (Revelation 5:6-10) Jesus came to this world to be the perfect sacrifice for our sins. Those who rejected Jesus crucified Him upon a wooden cross. They shed the blood of Jesus, the Lamb slain for our sins.

As you go about your busy day, take a minute to thank the Father in heaven for the wondeful sacrifice, for the price paid by Jesus Christ. Because of the death of the Lamb, our sins have been washed away. We have been redeemed. Rejoice and praise the Lord for His great gift of salvation.

Here is John 1:29-36 presented for your consideration.

John 1:29-36

29 The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him and said, "Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!

30 This is the one I meant when I said, 'A man who comes after me has surpassed me because he was before me.'

31 I myself did not know him, but the reason I came baptizing with water was that he might be revealed to Israel."

32 Then John gave this testimony: "I saw the Spirit come down from heaven as a dove and remain on him.

33 I would not have known him, except that the one who sent me to baptize with water told me, 'The man on whom you see the Spirit come down and remain is he who will baptize with the Holy Spirit.'

34 I have seen and I testify that this is the Son of God."

35 The next day John was there again with two of his disciples.

36 When he saw Jesus passing by, he said, "Look, the Lamb of God!"

In Love,

John Duvall

Romans 8:12-17

noreply@blogger.com (John) — Thu, 16 Feb 2006 13:19:00 +0000

Dear Brethren:

As Christians, we are debtors. That is to say, we are in great debt to someone. I am not talking about financial debt. (That is a different matter altogether.) As Christians, we are in great debt to God.

This spiritual debt is not a debt that we can pay back. We can no longer be out of this type of debt, nor should we want to be. However, we can live our lives in faithful service to the One to whom we are debtors. In order to live such a faithful life to God, we must live "by the Spirit." According to the apostle Paul, if we live "by the Spirit," then we will "put to death the deeds of the body." When we allow ourselves to be "led by the Spirit of God," then we are living as "sons of God" and "joint heirs with Christ."

Here is Romans 8:12-17 presented for your consideration.

Romans 8:12-17

12 Therefore, brethren, we are debtors—not to the flesh, to live according to the flesh.

13 For if you live according to the flesh you will die; but if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body, you will live.

14 For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God.

15 For you did not receive the spirit of bondage again to fear, but you received the Spirit of adoption by whom we cry out, “Abba, Father.”

16 The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God,

17 and if children, then heirs—heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ, if indeed we suffer with Him, that we may also be glorified together.

In Love,

John Duvall