Good news. Mt 24:13 (all KJV): “But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved.” Eph 1:11: “In whom also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestinated according to the purpose of him who worketh all things after the counsel of his own will”. The perseverance of the believer comes from the Lord Himself. Some will get knocked down but not get up. Some will be dealt harsh blows in life, but they rise again to trust their maker. “Whosoever will may come” but not all will come. He desires “that all will come to salvation” but not all will be saved. Has life taken your babies away? Have you suffered the unbearable? You will rise again to hope unto eternal life because He who called you is faithful and He will bring it to pass. Just keep going. The same faith that saved you will now rise in you again by His grace to lead you home, because you are His.
Polycarp
Polycarp was a disciple of the apostle John, who was to be burned?? at the stake around A.D. 150 at the age of 86. He was threatened by the mob of the day, & they told him “we are going to burn you at the stake, but if you will denounce Jesus Christ & bow to the Roman Emperor we will set you free”. He replied, “Eighty-six years I have been His servant, and He has done me no wrong. How can I blaspheme my king who saved me?” Once more they urged Polycarp to swear by Caesar. This time Polycarp replied, “Since you pretend not to know who and what I am, hear me declare with boldness: I am a Christian. And if you wish to learn more about Christianity, I will be happy to make an appointment.” Furious, they said, “Don’t you know We have wild beasts waiting? We’ll throw you to them unless you repent.” Polycarp answered, “Bring them on, then, for we are not accustomed to repent of what is good in order to adopt that which is evil.” Next they threatened to burn him alive. To this Polycarp replied, “You threaten me with fire which burns for a little while and is soon extinguished. You do not know the coming fire of judgment and eternal punishment reserved for the ungodly. What are you waiting for? Do what you wish.” He died a martyr, bound and burned at the stake, however they were forced to stab him to death when the FIRE FAILED to consume his body.
Our life must be characterized by a humble acceptance of God’s will; and our willingness to praise of God in the most extreme trial; and a joyful, unwavering commitment to Christ even when faced with death. Let this too be our story! STAND! Love Mel
FEAR NOT and DON’T BE DECEIVED
Isaiah 41:10 (all ESV) Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. 2 Tim 1:7 For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power, love & self-control. Psalm 34:4 I sought the Lord, & He answered me & delivered me from all my fears. Joshua 1:9 Have I not commanded you? Be strong & courageous. Do not be frightened, & do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go. Fear= False Evidence Appearing Real! There are so many scriptures where God tells us to “FEAR NOT”! The enemy wants to keep us fearful! He works to make wrong look appealing & right! Our God tells us “Don’t be Deceived”! These commands are critical for the things going on in this world today and no doubt for the chaos headed our way in the future. We must put our trust in Him! Love Mel
The Grace of God
Titus2:11-14 For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation for all people, training us to renounce ungodliness & worldly passions, & to live self-controlled, upright, & godly lives in the present age, waiting for our blessed hope, the appearing of the glory of our great God & Savior Jesus Christ, who gave himself for us to redeem us from all lawlessness & to purify for himself a people for his own possession who are zealous for good works. — The GRACE of God has appeared & it brings with it salvation, training, & discipleship for ALL who call on the Savior Jesus Christ. We are redeemed! Therefore, Be zealous for good works! Love Mel
Call Upon the Name of the Lord
Psalm 107:19-20 Then they cried to the Lord in their trouble, & He delivered them from their distress. He sent out his word & healed them, & delivered them from their destruction. Acts 2:21 It shall come to pass that everyone who calls upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.’ Phil 4:19 My God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus. — We serve a God who supplies EVERY NEED! A God who delivers us from our distress & destruction. A God who heals us. This is such good news! Have a blessed day. Love Mel
