The Blessedness of Godliness

Psalm 1:1-3 Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful.  2 But his delight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night.  3 And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper.

These verses have a simple, yet profound message.  First, stay away from ungodliness (vs. 1).  Second, delight in God’s Word (vs. 2).  Third, enjoy the benefits that right living brings (vs. 3). Continue reading

The Need for Spirit-Led Bible Study

I want to cover a topic that is sometimes overlooked or at least under-emphasized when discussing Bible study.  That is the fact that proper interpretation is a matter of spiritual guidance, not just grammar, syntax, and context.  Even a thorough knowledge of the original languages of the BIble (Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek) is no substitute for the active work of the Holy Spirit in the life of a believer.  Continue reading

Our Spiritual Battle

Ephesians 6:10-12 Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. 11 Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.   12 For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.

It is tempting for the Christian to focus on the physical things of life.  Being physical beings, this is natural.  So, we concern ourselves with how we look, maintaining our homes and cars, performing the chores we need to do, etc.  There is nothing wrong with this.  However, human beings also have a spiritual side.  This is where we will find the most difficult areas of our life. Continue reading

How To Face Temptation

During His earthly ministry, the Bible is clear that Jesus Christ faced temptations as we do.  One of those instances is documented in Matthew 4 (a parallel passage is Luke 4) where He is tempted by Satan himself.  In accordance with His perfect life, Jesus did not give in, but rather provides us with a primer on how to deal with the temptations we face. Continue reading