Barbara Sows The Word: 2019

Saturday, August 24, 2019

GOD WANTS AMBASSADORS FOR CHRIST!

BARBARA E. PERKINS

GOD WANTS AMBASSADORS FOR CHRIST!

The word of God in 2 Corinthians 5:18-20 (NKJV) declares His hearts desire for all of us. “18 Now all things are of God, who has reconciled us to Himself through Jesus Christ, and has given us the ministry of reconciliation, 19 that is, that God was in Christ reconciling the world to Himself, not imputing their trespasses to them, and has committed to us the word of reconciliation. 20 Now then, we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were pleading through us: we implore you on Christ’s behalf, be reconciled to God.” Since God is pleading for souls to be saved, it is a PRIORITY with Him. Shouldn’t soul saving be a PRIORITY with us as well? God loves us so much that He made provisions for us (the world) to get back into right relationship with Himself through Jesus Christ, His Son. Then God, in His mercy, gave to us the ministry of reconciliation. He, God, was in Christ reestablishing our relationship to Himself and not taking into account our sins. As a result, God committed to us the word of reconciliation. He actually commissioned us to be Ambassadors for Christ. God, Himself pleads through us for others to be reconciled to Himself through Christ Jesus. God’s word in Malachi 3:6 declares, “For I am the Lord, I do not change; therefore, you are not consumed, O sons of Jacob.” God is still pleading for souls to be saved. That’s still extremely important to God and should be extremely important to us also. That’s God’s love manifested! He wants to draw us to Himself through Christ Jesus and He wants to forgive us of our sins. God wants to show us favor by not attributing to us our trespasses. Thank You, LORD! Hallelujah!!! We get a fresh new start to live righteously. How great is that? Oh, the mercy and grace of God! In addition, God wants us to share these facts of His love with others as His Ambassadors for the Lord Jesus Christ. How wonderful is that? Ambassadors for Jesus Christ, representing God’s Kingdom! So Awesome!!!

Would you like to be saved and develop a relationship with God as your Heavenly Father? If you would really like to know God, invite His Son, Jesus Christ, into your heart. Please pray this prayer: Dear God, please forgive me of my sins. I believe in my heart that Jesus Christ is Your Son. I believe that He died on the cross, shed His blood, and rose from the grave for my salvation. I confess Jesus right now as my Savior and Lord. God fill me with your Holy Spirit so that I can live a life that pleases You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen! If you prayed this prayer and meant it, based on Roman 10:9-10, you are saved. Welcome into God’s Family!

ALL THINGS WORK TOGETHER FOR GOOD! Part 2

BARBARA E. PERKINS

ALL THINGS WORK TOGETHER FOR GOOD! Part 2

In Part 1 of Romans 8:28 (NKJV), we learned that “All things work together for good to (1) Those who love God, (2) To those who are called (3) According to God’s purpose.” The first phrase of this Scripture explains a part of why all things work together for good to those who love God. I want to believe that we love God because He loved us first. Many of us are familiar with John 3:16, “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.” God loves us so much that He sent His Son, Jesus Christ, to save us from our sin nature. That’s a powerful love! Upon examining Romans 8:28 again, I want to focus on numbers (2) and (3). All things work together for good to those who love God and (2) to those who are called (3) according to God’s purpose. We, the body of Christ/that’s ALL who have made Jesus Christ our Savior and Lord, are ALL CALLED ACCORDING TO GOD’S PURPOSE and it’s to the MINISTRY OF RECONCILIATION. 2 Corinthians 5:18-20 confirms this fact, “18 Now all things are of God, who has reconciled us to Himself through Jesus Christ, and has given us the ministry of reconciliation, 19 that is, that God was in Christ reconciling the world to Himself, not imputing their trespasses to them, and has committed to us the word of reconciliation. 20 Now then, we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were pleading through us: we implore you on Christ’s behalf, be reconciled to God.” This Scripture affirms that everyone that is part of the body of Christ is CALLED ACCORDING TO GOD PURPOSE. We have to realize that fact and start telling our families, friends and all those we come in contact with in our daily lives about God’s tremendous love for us and about Jesus’ ultimate sacrifice for our salvation. We are Ambassadors for Christ in the Earth realm. Our lifestyles should exemplify that we are representatives of God and His kingdom. We have to always remember these crucial facts: “And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.” Praise God for His faithfulness to us and His powerful word.

ALL THINGS WORK TOGETHER FOR GOOD! Part 1

BARBARA E. PERKINS

ALL THINGS WORK TOGETHER FOR GOOD! Part 1

There are special benefits to loving God and being called according to His purpose. God’s word in Romans 8:28 (NKJV) states it in this manner, “AND WE KNOW that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.” This Scriptures says, “THIS IS SOMETHING THAT WE KNOW! This is something we can count on! ALL THINGS WORK TOGETHER FOR GOOD! REQUIREMENTS: 1. To those who love God! 2. To those who are called! 3. According to God’s purpose! This Scripture is often misquoted and misunderstood. We can’t expect this Scripture to work in our lives, if we are not living up to its requirements. Can we??? NOW, (after carefully examining the essence of this Scripture) we can UNDERSTAND, BELIEVE and EXPECT the BENEFITS of this DYNAMIC SCRIPTURE TO WORK IN OUR LIVES. “And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.” All things might not look good or feel good at the time we are going through our challenges. But, we absolutely must focus on God’s word. 2 Corinthians 4:17-18 provides additional insight into understanding the previous Scripture. “For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, is working for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory, 18 while we do not look at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen. For the things which are seen are temporary, but the things which are not seen are eternal.” We have to look at what God’s word is saying to us about our circumstances AND BELIEVE HIS WORD. Praise God for His powerful word to us! Almighty God assures us, “We (can) know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.” But, we must trust God and His word totally! Thank You, LORD GOD, for Your mercy and Your grace.

Thursday, July 25, 2019

THE NAME OF THE LORD IS A STRONG TOWER!

BARBARA E. PERKINS

THE NAME OF THE LORD IS A STRONG TOWER!

The word of God in Proverbs 18:10 (NKJV) declares, “The NAME of the LORD is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe.” In time of trouble, small or great, I need a STRONG TOWER where I can run and find help. Don’t you??? Where do you run when the storms of life are too great for you? When the storms of life are too great for me, I run to the ROCK. God’s word describes HIMSELF, my ROCK, in Psalm 18:1-3 declares, “I will love You, O LORD, my strength. 2 The LORD is my ROCK and my Fortress and my Deliverer; my God, my Strength, in Whom I will trust; my Shield and the Horn of my Salvation, my Stronghold. 3 I will call upon the LORD, WHO is worthy to be praised; so shall I be saved from my enemies.” “The Name of the LORD is a strong tower…” I am so glad that that I can run to the LORD and be safe. I am equally grateful that I can count on the LORD and trust Him to be my STRONG TOWER, my STRENGTH, my ROCK, my FORTRESS, my DELIVERER, my GOD, my SHIELD, the HORN of my SALVATION, and my STRONGHOLD. Hallelujah to the LORD!!! Thank YOU, LORD!!! Where do you go when each day is overwhelming? I run to the ROCK!!! Where do you run when your doctors offer an unfavorable outcome to your aches, your pains and/or no hope??? I run to the ROCK! His NAME is ALMIGHTY GOD, EL SHADDAI!!! He is my HEALER, JEHOVAH RAPHAH!!! He is my PROVIDER, JEHOVAH JIREH!!! He is my Deliverance and Mighty Salvation in victory. The LORD is my BANNER, JEHOVAH NISSI!!! Yes, HE is ALMIGHTY GOD and His Son, also, has a VERY POWERFUL NAME. That NAME is JESUS CHRIST, a NAME that is ABOVE EVERY NAME. God’s word emphatically states it this way, in Philippians 2:9-11, “Therefore God also has HIGHLY EXALTED HIM and GIVEN HIM THE NAME which is ABOVE EVERY NAME, 10 THAT AT THE NAME OF JESUS EVERY KNEE SHOULD BOW, of those IN HEAVEN, and of THOSE ON EARTH, and of THOSE UNDER THE EARTH, 11 and THAT EVERY TONGUE SHOULD CONFESS THAT JESUS CHRIST IS LORD, TO THE GLORY OF GOD THE FATHER.” I thank my God, my Rock, that I can always run to Him in time of need and to His Son, Jesus Christ, my Savior and Lord. Praise the LORD for His love, compassion and faithfulness! Yes, “The NAME of the LORD IS A STRONG TOWER; the righteous run to it and are safe.” Hallelujah!!!

Friday, July 19, 2019

GET WISDOM!!!

BARBARA E. PERKINS

GET WISDOM!!!

We are living at a time when life can be so difficult for us, if we do not have God’s wisdom guiding us in every area of our lives. The LORD informs us in the Book of Proverbs just how important it is for us to get godly wisdom and to understand how to use it. The word of God in Proverbs 4:7 (NKJV) says it this way, “Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore, get wisdom. And in all your getting, get understanding.” How do we get wisdom? Proverbs 2:6-8 answers that question, 6 “For the Lord gives wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding; 7 He stores up sound wisdom for the upright; He is a shield to those who walk uprightly; 8 He guards the paths of justice, and preserves the way of His saints.” God’s protection for us! The LORD gives us wisdom which He stores up for the righteous. From His mouth (His word) we get knowledge and understanding. That’s why it is imperative that we study God’s word. James 1:5-8 shares additional insight on getting wisdom. “5 If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him. 6 But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for he who doubts is like a wave of the sea driven and tossed by the wind. 7 For let not that man suppose that he will receive anything from the LORD; 8 he is a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways.” God is merciful and He doesn’t want us operating in this Earth realm without having the tools necessary to be successful, as He defines success. Yes, the LORD gives us knowledge and understanding, but He commands us to GET THE PRINCIPLE THING—WISDOM.

JESUS CHRIST LIVES TO INTERCEDE FOR US

BARBARA E. PERKINS

JESUS CHRIST LIVES TO INTERCEDE FOR US

God’s powerful word in Hebrews 7:25 (NKJV) declares, “Therefore He is also able to save to the uttermost those who come to God through Him, since He always lives to make intercession for them.” Jesus Christ lives to pray for us because His heart’s desire is to saved us. Jesus said (John 8:29), “…The Father has not left Me alone, for I ALWAYS DO THOSE THINGS THAT PLEASE HIM.” Jesus Christ wants to be our Savior and Lord so that He can bring us back into right relationship with God, His Father. SALVATION is a MAJOR PRIORITY in the Kingdom of God. Since SALVATION is a MAJOR PRIORITY with Jesus Christ and God the Father, shouldn’t it be a major priority with us, if we are God’s people? Jesus Christ is at the right hand of the Father and He lives to make intercession for us to bring souls into the Kingdom of God while there is still time. He is able to save to the uttermost, those who want to be saved, IF WE COME TO GOD THROUGH HIM. Can you imagine that someone is living to pray for us so that we will be saved? YES, and His Name is JESUS CHRIST! Not only does He pray for our Salvation, but He lives to pray for us always and in every situation as confirmed in Romans 8:34-35. “…It is Christ who died, and furthermore is also risen, who is even at the right hand of God, WHO ALSO MAKES INTERCESSION FOR US. 35 Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword?” Nothing will separate us from the love of God and the love of Christ Jesus, no matter what is happening in our lives. Praise be to our Savior and Lord Jesus Christ for having an awesome, compassionate heart to always intercede for us.

IT SEEMS RIGHT, BUT IS IT REALLY?

BARBARA E. PERKINS

IT SEEMS RIGHT, BUT IS IT REALLY?

The word of God in Proverbs 14:12 (NKJV) states decisively, “THERE IS A WAY THAT SEEMS RIGHT TO A MAN (or woman), BUT ITS END IS THE WAY OF DEATH.” The fact that Almighty God found it necessary to reiterate this Scripture in Proverbs 16:25 serves to emphasize its importance. This Scripture brings to mind another profound Scripture in Romans 6:23, “FOR THE WAGES OF SIN IS DEATH, BUT THE GIFT OF GOD IS ETERNAL LIFE IN CHRIST JESUS OUR LORD.” Sin offers temporary fun and the wages it pays is death. But God, in His infinite mercy and grace, offers us the Gift of Eternal Life (living forever) in Christ Jesus (if we invited Jesus Christ into our hearts to be our Lord and Savior). God’s word alerts us so many times that we don’t have to choose death. That’s God’s compassion! Many of us are aware of what a powerful man of God Moses developed into and it can be very fruitful for us to get his prospective on sin. The following wisdom comes from God’s word, as spoken by Moses and recorded in Hebrews 11:25-26 (KJV), 25 “(He) choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God, THAN TO ENJOY THE PLEASURES OF SIN FOR A SEASON; 26 Esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures in Egypt...” Moses had been living the life of royalty doing what was right in his own eyes as the son of Pharaoh’s daughter, the King of Egypt. When God called Moses to lead His people out of Egyptian bondage, Moses renounced his previous life with all that was associated with it, choosing to suffer with God’s people (who were by birthright his people also), rather “than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season.” Today, we still have to be reminded of that fact because unless there is some kind of tragedy or catastrophic event in society, few people want to hear about Jesus Christ and the things of God. Moses stated there is a season of sin. You could be in your season of sin. Keep in mind that you never know if you are going to make it out of your SEASON OF SIN ALIVE. However, the word of God should always be our plumb line, our guide to what is RIGHT. There is a way that seems right—that seems wonderful in our own eyes, but is it really?

ARE YOU DOING YOUR OWN THING? Part 3

BARBARA E. PERKINS

ARE YOU DOING YOUR OWN THING?

Part 3

Are you still doing your own thing? God’s word in Ephesians 2:10 (NKJV) proclaims, “For we are (God’s) workmanship (His artistry), created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.” This is still God’s plan for us! He created us for good works so that we are pleasing to Him. There is an account in the Old Testament of the Bible that deals with the life of Noah. The word of God in Genesis Chapter 6 (NKJV) shares information that very much resembles what is happening in our world today. Also, in Genesis Chapter 6:5-12, this picture is quite disturbing, 5 “THEN THE LORD SAW THAT THE WICKEDNESS OF MAN (mankind) WAS GREAT IN THE EARTH, AND THAT EVERY INTENT OF THE THOUGHTS OF HIS HEART WAS ONLY EVIL CONTINUALLY. 6 AND THE LORD WAS SORRY THAT HE HAD MADE MAN (mankind) ON THE EARTH, AND HE WAS GRIEVED IN HIS HEART. 7 So the Lord said, “I will destroy man whom I have created from the face of the earth, both man and beast, creeping thing and birds of the air, for I am sorry that I have made them.” 8 BUT NOAH FOUND GRACE IN THE EYES OF THE LORD. 9 This is the genealogy of Noah. NOAH WAS A JUST MAN, perfect in his generations. NOAH WALKED WITH GOD. 10 And Noah begot three sons: Shem, Ham, and Japheth. 11 The earth also was corrupt before God, and the earth was filled with violence. 12 So God looked upon the earth, and indeed it was corrupt; for all flesh had corrupted their way on the earth.” The Creator of the Universe, Who made mankind in His own image and likeness, regretted that He had created man because of man’s wickedness. But, Noah and his family found favor with Almighty God. Mankind chose to do their own thing, instead of what pleases God. Galatians 6:7, says it this way, “Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap.” God looking down on all the wickedness on Earth gave Noah, a preacher of righteous, instructions on how to prepare for the flood that was coming (2 Peter 2:5-6). Noah, as instructed by God, built an ark to save himself, his family and whoever would be obedient to God’s word. When the ark was completed those who would be saved, went into it and the LORD shut the door (Genesis 7:16). Noah, his wife, their three sons, plus their wives—eight persons that were saved from the flood. We always have two choices, either to do our own thing or to obey the word of God. Proverbs 14:12 emphatically states, “There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death.” Which do you choose?

Tuesday, June 18, 2019

ARE YOU DOING YOUR OWN THING? Part 2

BARBARA E. PERKINS

ARE YOU DOING YOUR OWN THING? Part 2

Are you still doing your own thing? God’s word in Ephesians 2:10 (NKJV) proclaims, “FOR WE ARE HIS (God’s) WORKMANSHIP (HIS ARTISTRY), CREATED IN CHRIST JESUS FOR GOOD WORKS, WHICH GOD PREPARED BEFOREHAND THAT WE SHOULD WALK IN THEM.” Did God’s word say that we were created to do our own thing? God’s word from Genesis 1:26-27 (NKJV) recorded the following powerful image, 26 “Then God said, “Let Us make man in Our image, according to Our likeness; let them have dominion… 27 So God created man in His own image; in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them.” WHY??? Ephesians 1:3-6

Sheds floodlights on God’s plan for us, “ 3 BLESSED BE THE GOD AND FATHER OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST, WHO HAS BLESSED US WITH EVERY SPIRITUAL BLESSING IN THE HEAVENLY PLACES IN CHRIST, 4 JUST AS HE CHOSE US IN HIM (SELF) BEFORE THE FOUNDATION OF THE WORLD, THAT WE SHOULD BE HOLY AND WITHOUT BLAME BEFORE HIM IN LOVE, 5 HAVING PREDESTINED (PREPLANNED) US TO ADOPTION AS SONS (AND DAUGHTERS) BY JESUS CHRIST TO HIMSELF, ACCORDING TO THE GOOD PLEASURE OF HIS WILL, 6 to the praise of the glory of HIS GRACE, BY WHICH HE MADE US ACCEPTED IN THE BELOVED.” God, the Father, wants us for Himself—for His will. He has blessed us with everything we need to be successful. We are God’s children CREATED IN HIS IMAGE AND LIKENESS. If we could just grasp the enormity of that vivid picture! God is loving, full of mercy, grace and peace. So are we! He is just and righteous. So are we! He is faithful and can be trusted. So are we! Almighty God created us in Christ Jesus to be holy (set apart) and blameless before Him in love FOR GOOD WORKS and He is still molding and shaping us. Thank You, LORD! Glory to Almighty God! In the beginning, God walked with Adam and Eve in the garden in the cool of the of the day and they had fellowship with God before their sin/disobedience—before they were persuaded to do their own thing. If we have been redeemed by Jesus Christ, we can now commune with God as His own dear children. That’s been God’s plan from the beginning. God adopted us into His family and accepted us through Jesus Christ in love. As a result of what you know now, based on God’s word, CAN YOU REALLY CHOOSE TO DO YOUR OWN THING? Are you persuaded to do God’s will (His word is His will) and allow Jesus Christ to be your Lord and Savior? Know that God loves you with a special love, no matter what you have done in your life.

ARE YOU DOING YOUR OWN THING? Part 1

BARBARA E. PERKINS

ARE YOU DOING YOUR OWN THING? Part 1

Are You Doing Your Own Thing? Should we be doing our own thing? The word of God in Ephesians 2:1-10 (NKJV) answers these questions for us, “And you He made alive, who were dead in trespasses and sins, 2 in which you once walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit who now works in the sons of disobedience, 3 among whom also we all once conducted ourselves in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, just as the others. 4 BUT GOD, WHO IS RICH IN MERCY, BECAUSE OF HIS GREAT LOVE WITH WHICH HE LOVED US, 5 EVEN WHEN WE WERE DEAD IN TRESPASSES, MADE US ALIVE TOGETHER WITH CHRIST (BY GRACE YOU HAVE BEEN SAVED), 6 AND RAISED US UP TOGETHER, AND MADE US SIT TOGETHER, IN THE HEAVENLY PLACES IN CHRIST JESUS, 7 that in the ages to come He might show the exceeding riches of His grace in His kindness toward us in Christ Jesus. 8 For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, 9 not of works, lest anyone should boast. 10 FOR WE ARE HIS WORKMANSHIP (HIS ARTISTRY), CREATED IN CHRIST JESUS FOR GOOD WORKS, WHICH GOD PREPARED BEFOREHAND THAT WE SHOULD WALK IN THEM.” Now, should we be doing our own thing based on God’s word? Take a look at Ephesians 2:10 again, (Amplified version of the Bible) which proclaims, “10 For we are His workmanship [His own master work, a work of art], created in Christ Jesus [reborn from above—spiritually transformed, renewed, ready to be used] for good works, which God prepared [for us] beforehand [taking paths which He set], so that we would walk in them [living the good life which He prearranged and made ready for us]. Hallelujah!!! Proverbs 14:12 (NKJV) responds with, “There is a way that seems right to a man (or woman), but its end is the way of death.” DID JESUS CHRIST SHED HIS BLOOD, DIE ON THE CROSS, AND SAVE US JUST SO THAT WE CAN DO OUR OWN THING? Almighty God, because of His love, created us as His work of art, His own masterpiece, in Christ Jesus, to take pathways He set for our good. Praise His Holy Name!

THE LORD ASKED, “WHAT’S IN YOUR HAND?”

BARBARA E. PERKINS

THE LORD ASKED, “WHAT’S IN YOUR HAND?”

There is a wonderful example in the Bible where Moses found Himself on assignment for the LORD, yet He didn’t feel that He was equipped for the task. Moses was beginning to learn how to trust God and didn’t feel that He could convince Israel that God had sent Him to deliver them from Egyptian bondage. Whatever the LORD calls us to do, He equips us to do. In Exodus 4:1-2 (NKJV) the word of God continues in this manner, “Then Moses answered and said, ‘But suppose they will not believe me or listen to my voice; suppose they say, The LORD has not appeared to you.’” 2 “So the LORD said to him, “What is that in your hand?” He said, “A rod.” The rod was a symbol of the fact that the LORD can miraculously use anything to give us the confidence to do His will. Throughout the Book of Exodus, we see Almighty God encouraging Moses to use what was in his hand (his rod) and see the salvation of the LORD. Moses did and he was victorious.

What’s in your hand? What is it that the LORD has already equipped you to do? It may not be a rod, but He has already prepared you or is preparing you for something very special and you CAN do it. The word of God in 1 Samuel 17: 40-46, reveals what David (a youth) had in his hand when he confronted Goliath. Goliath was defying the living God and harassing God’s people. In David’s hand was his staff, five smooth stones and his sling shot. In 1 Samuel 17:45-46, we see David’s unwavering faith in Almighty God’s ability to deliver Goliath into His hands and this is expressed in the following Scriptures, “Then David said to the Philistine, ‘You come to me with a sword, with a spear, and with a javelin. But I come to you in the name of the LORD of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied. 46 This day the LORD will deliver you into my hand…’” …And God did!!! The LORD used Moses, David and so many others in the Bible and during our era mightily. The LORD GOD of hosts wants to use us for His glory. The only thing stopping us is--us! What’s in your hand? Or what gift (s) has the LORD breathed into you? Use your special gift (s) for the LORD and watch Him shower you with His loving kindness.

CAN TWO WALK TOGETHER AND NOT AGREE? Part 2

BARBARA E. PERKINS

CAN TWO WALK TOGETHER AND NOT AGREE? Part 2

Now the word of God in Amos 3:1-3 (NKJV) declares, “3 Hear this word that the Lord has spoken against you, O children of Israel, against the whole family which I brought up from the land of Egypt, saying: 2 ‘You only have I known of all the families of the earth; therefore I will punish you for all your iniquities.’ 3 Can two walk together, unless they are agreed?” Can we really walk with God and not agree with His word? What are you doing that you know is not agreeing with God’s word? It is because of LORD’s mercy and grace that we have not been consumed (Lamentations 3:22). God’s word admonishes, “But exhort one another daily, while it is called ‘Today’ lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin.” Like with Israel, our Compassionate God gives us so many chances to govern our lives according to His word. First John 1:8-9 “If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. 9 If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” That’s God’s mercy and grace! Don’t frustrate the grace of God! In the Book of Revelation 3:20, God’s Beloved Son, Jesus Christ, encourages us with these affectionate words, “Behold, I stand at the door (of your heart) and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and dine with him, and he with Me.” Let Jesus Christ into your heart and let Him change your life. Can you comprehend how much Jesus loves us? He sacrificed His life for us to bring us back into right relation with His Father God. What a love! Let’s Agree with God’s word and walk with Him. Ephesians 1:5 reveals the heart of God for us, "Having predestined us to adoption as sons (and daughters) by Jesus Christ to Himself, according to the good pleasure of His will." God wants us as His own dear children. How awesome is that! Can two walk together and not agree? No, we CANNOT walk with the Living God, unless agree with Him and be a doer of His powerful word. LORD GOD, thank You for your profound love for us and for sending Your Precious Son, Jesus Christ, to redeem us. My God, what a love! I am so grateful for my salvation.

CAN TWO WALK TOGETHER AND NOT AGREE? Part 1

BARBARA E. PERKINS

CAN TWO WALK TOGETHER AND NOT AGREE? Part 1

The word of God in Amos 3:1-3 (NKJV) declares, “3 Hear this word that the Lord has spoken against you, O children of Israel, against the whole family which I brought up from the land of Egypt, saying: 2 ‘You only have I known of all the families of the earth; therefore I will punish you for all your iniquities.’ 3 Can two walk together, unless they are agreed?” It is especially insightful reading the Old Testament Book of Amos because of the similarities that one can draw between God’s people then and now. Amos’ messages were during a period of unprecedented economic and political prosperity. He denounced the people for neglecting God’s word, for social injustice, seeking-pleasure, self-indulgence, and gross idolatry. Today’s idolatry examples include worshipping one’s body, education, careers, cars, homes, leaders in society, entertainment and Church leaders; instead of worshipping the LORD GOD and His Son, Jesus Christ. These sacrilegious attitudes and actions of God’s people, Israel, caused Him to severely judge them. Almighty God asked the following question, through His Prophet Amos, “Can two walk together, unless they are agreed?” God’s people, Israel, were not walking with Him and they were not agreeing with God’s word that His prophet had spoken, after all that God had done for them. What will God do today for our actions/attitudes? Will God judge us as He judged Israel? Who are you walking with and agreeing with that displeases God? Are you part of the problem or part of the solution? Are you an influence for good or do you acquiesce? How does all that is going on around us daily affect the heart of our God? Look at what is happening in our families, our schools, our communities, our cities, our states, our nation and the world. Almighty God must be so disappointed in His creation. Have mercy on us, LORD GOD, and forgive us! If each of us decided to truly repent and do better, what is it that cannot be accomplished with God on our team? Romans 8:31 says, “If God is for us, who can be against us.” In Luke 1:37 God's word says, “For nothing will be impossible with God.” Let’s do an introspection and see if we need to change teams. I want to always be on God’s team, don’t you? Can two walk together and not agree? No, I can’t walk with God and not agree with His word. Can You?

HAVE YOU BLESSED THE LORD TODAY?

BARBARA E. PERKINS

HAVE YOU BLESSED THE LORD TODAY?

The Psalmist David, in Psalm 103:1-5 (NKJV), shares some key reasons to bless the LORD in the word of God. 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 WITH LOVINGKINDNESS AND TENDER MERCIES, 5 WHO SATISFIES YOUR MOUTH WITH GOOD THINGS, SO THAT YOUR YOUTH IS RENEWED LIKE THE EAGLE’S.” As I read and meditate on these Scriptures, I realized that these are the essential reasons why I bless the LORD. I owe it to the LORD, to bless the Him!!! I must bless the LORD because of His precious and very great promises to us in His word:

1. He forgives all my sins!

2. He heals all my diseases!

3. He redeems my life from destruction. He saved me!!!

4. He crowns me with His loving kindness and tender mercies.

5. He satisfies my mouth with good things, so that my youth is renewed. The LORD causes my mouth to be satisfied with what is good (not what is bad), so that I can be renewed in my body. Hallelujah!!!

I am never going to forget these awesome benefits that the LORD has provided for me—and you. Thank You, my LORD GOD and thank You, my Savior and Lord, Jesus Christ. To the LORD be praise, glory and honor and to His wonderful Son, Jesus Christ, forever and ever. Amen! I have to bless the LORD for His new mercies that I see and experience every day of my life. HAVE YOU BLESSED THE LORD TODAY? BLESS THE LORD!

Friday, May 3, 2019

IF MY PEOPLE WILL … Part 2

BARBARA E. PERKINS

IF MY PEOPLE WILL …

Part 2

In 2 Chronicles 7:14 (NKJV) the word of God declares, in this familiar Scripture, “If My people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land.” As we examine the principles of this Scripture, in careful introspection, are we cooperating with God? Or, are we a hindrance to the move of God in our lives? Hebrews 4:2-3 says it this way, “2 For indeed the gospel was preached to us as well as to them; BUT THE WORD WHICH THEY HEARD DID NOT PROFIT THEM, NOT BEING MIXED WITH FAITH IN THOSE WHO HEARD IT. 3 FOR WE WHO HAVE BELIEVED DO ENTER THAT REST…” God said, when we meet the four conditions/principles of 2 Chronicles 7:14 (BEING HUMBLE, PRAYING, SEEKING GOD and TURNING FROM SIN), He would follow through on His terms in the following 3 provisions: HEAR OUR PRAYERS, FORGIVE US and HEAL OUR LAND. Our land desperately needs to be healed. We are waiting on God to do something. IS GOD WAITING ON US? CAN GOD SEE OUR HUMILITY? CAN GOD SEE US PRAYING? Are we praying for the leaders of our nation, the Body of Christ, our citizens, world leaders and immigrants? ARE WE PRAYING FOR OUR OWN FAMILIES EVERYDAY? OR, ARE WE LEAVING THEM TO CHANCE? Remember 1 Peter 5:8-9, “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…” ARE WE SEEKING GOD’S FACE—HIS WAY OF DOING THINGS? ARE WE CHOOSING TO TURN FROM SIN? God’s word says, confess our sins to Him, He forgives (1 John 1:9-10). We have constant assurance that God can be trusted. In Numbers 23:19, God’s word says, “God is not a man, that He should lie, nor a son of man, that He should repent. Has He said, and will He not do? Or has He spoken, and will He not make it good?” Hebrews 6:18 also confirms God’s faithfulness declaring He cannot lie. We can count on God, but can He count on us? When God says, If my people will… As in 2 Chronicles 7:14, He is expecting us to obey His word and He has wonderful plans for our lives. Praise the LORD for His loving kindness! Now, will we be HUMBLE, PRAY, SEEK GOD, and TURN FROM SIN; so that He will heal our nation with all of its issues and yours as well?

IF MY PEOPLE WILL … Part 1

BARBARA E. PERKINS

IF MY PEOPLE WILL …

Part 1

In 2 Chronicles 7:14 (NKJV) the word of God, in this very familiar Scripture, declares emphatically, “If My people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land.” Almighty God, with all of His power and authority gave us assurance of what He could do and would do for us to take care of us. He is the One Who said in the beginning (Genesis 1:5), “Let there be light,” and it appeared. Then God said, “Let there be a firmament,” and it appeared. “Then God said (Genesis 1:11), “Let the earth bring forth grass, the herb that yields seed, and the fruit tree that yields fruit according to its kind, whose seed is in itself, on the earth”; and it was so.” One of the crowning events of Almighty God’s power and authority is demonstrated in in Genesis 1:26-28, “26 Then God said, “Let Us make man in Our image, according to Our likeness; let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, over the birds of the air, and over the cattle, over all the earth and over every creeping thing that creeps on the earth.” 27 So God created man in His own image; in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them. 28 Then God blessed them, and God said to them, “Be fruitful and multiply; fill the earth and subdue it; have dominion over the fish of the sea, over the birds of the air, and over every living thing that moves on the earth.” THESE FEW SCRIPTURES VIVIDLY DEMONSTRATE THE AWESOME POWER OF ALMIGHTY GOD AND WHAT HE SAID, HE WILL DO. God said, “IF MY PEOPLE WHO ARE CALLED BY MY NAME WILL…

1. HUMBLE THEMSELVES

2. PRAY

3. SEEK MY FACE

4. TURN FROM THEIR WICKED WAYS

GOD DECLARES, THEN I WILL…

5. HEAR FROM HEAVEN

6. WILL FORGIVE THEIR SIN

7. HEAL THEIR LAND.

Our land desperately needs the healing power of God. Almighty God says He will heal our land IF... SO, WHICH OF THESE FOUR (#1-4) PRINCIPLES ARE WE FORGETTING TO DO?

Thursday, April 18, 2019

THE LORD SAID, “SEEK MY FACE!” Part 2

BARBARA E. PERKINS

THE LORD SAID, “SEEK MY FACE!”

Part 2

In Psalm 27:8 (NKJV), the Psalmist David declared God's word, "When You said, 'Seek My face,' My heart said to You, "Your face, LORD, I will seek.”

King Hezekiah chose to seek the LORD’s face when he was about to die. The LORD healed him and added 15 years to his life (1King 20:1-7). King David chose to seek the LORD’s face, and he became the King of Judah (2 Samuel 2:1-4). His life had been filled with so much suspense, as well as challenges. But in spite of those challenges and shortcomings, the most extraordinary fact is that Jesus Christ came into the Earth realm through the seed of David (Matthew 1:1-6). Also significant, Jesus continually sought His Father God’s face in prayer (Matthew 26:39, Mark 1:35, Luke 5:16, 6:12). The paramount benefit of Jesus’ sacrifice, as well as His prayers is the fact that eternal life was made available to us (John 17:1-26). Praise the Lord! That was just the beginning of the mighty move of God in the Earth realm through Jesus Christ our perfect example. His disciples took up His mantle, learned to seek the LORD’s face, and turned the world upside down (Mark 16:15-20, Acts 17:1-34). Today, we still have to believe God’s powerful word and step out in faith and do those things that the LORD called us to do. When we seek the LORD’S face, our possibilities become limitless because He is our Heavenly Father and He is working through us with signs following. “For with God nothing will be impossible (Luke 1:37).” Seek the LORD Church, seek His face!!!

Saturday, March 30, 2019

BLESS THE LORD, O MY SOUL!

BARBARA E. PERKINS

BLESS THE LORD, O MY SOUL!

The Psalmist David gave us some very profound reasons to bless the LORD in Psalm 103:1-5 (NKJV), “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.” David tells himself, You are going to bless the LORD! He reminds himself of the LORD’S BENEFITS, the REASONS, he is blessing the LORD:

“-Who FORGIVES ALL your iniquities/sins,

-Who HEALS ALL YOUR DISEASES,

-Who REDEEMS YOUR LIFE from destruction,

-Who CROWNS you with LOVINGKINDNESS and tender MERCIES,

-Who SATISFIES your mouth with GOOD THINGS, so that

YOUR YOUTH IS RENEWED LIKE THE EAGLE’S.”

What the Psalmist David expressed in verses 1-5 is phenomenal! When I look at David’s five succinct points on why he told his soul (his mind) to bless the LORD, I have to ask, why would anyone, who knows the LORD, not want to BLESS the LORD? Why do I bless the LORD GOD? I bless the LORD for a multitude of reasons, but for the sake of time and space I will only state a few of them. He loves me! The LORD sent His Son, Jesus Christ to save me from my sins. I accepted the LORD GOD’S free-will Gift of Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior many decades ago, with no desire to turn back. Glory to God and to Jesus Christ my Lord and Savior! The LORD provides for me. He has given me the most beautiful family to love and they love me. Thank YOU, LORD! He provides shelter for me to live in my own home, instead of on a park bench. Thank YOU, LORD! He keeps me in my right mind! HALLELUJAH!!! He fills my spirit, soul and body so that I am not lacking any good thing. Every day I am LIVING above ground is another testimony of why I bless the LORD GOD ALMIGHTY. I WILL BLESS THE LORD!!!

GO FORWARD! Part 3

BARBARA E. PERKINS

GO FORWARD!

Part 3

In Part 2, we saw how Almighty God by the power of His word and His servant Moses was able to move His people, Israel, forward into their destiny in circumstances that looked doomed for them (Exodus Chapter 14[NKJV]). As Israel was being pursued by Pharaoh’s Egyptian army, they arrived at the Red Sea and their only viable option was to head into the midst of the Red Sea. In Exodus 14:29-31, again, we see the results of God’s miraculous rescue of His people and His awesome faithfulness. 29 “But the children of Israel had walked on dry land in the midst of the sea, and the waters were a wall to them on their right hand and on their left. 30 So the LORD saved Israel that day out of the hand of the Egyptians… 31 Thus Israel saw the great work which the LORD had done in Egypt; so the people feared the LORD, and believed in the LORD and His servant Moses.” Praise the LORD!

Almighty God has a way of getting us to GO FORWARD in our lives to do His will. Just before Jesus went back to heaven and sat down at the right hand of His Father God, He left His disciples (and us) with these vital words in Matthew 28:18-20: “18 And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. 19 GO therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age. Amen.” Whenever and wherever we GO, we are to make disciples (give people an opportunity to invite Jesus Christ into their hearts) and teach the word. As we GO FORWARD on assignment for God and for Jesus Christ, we can be encouraged and comforted by God’s amazing word, knowing that we are not alone because Jesus Christ is with us including all of His power and authority (verse 20). In addition, God said, “… I will never leave you nor forsake you," (Hebrews 13:5). No matter what is happening in our lives to try to deter us from God’s plan, even fear, we have a responsibility to pray, read, study, meditate and obey His word daily. God will equip us for His purpose, IF we let Him by not rebelling. Then we will be able to hear His still, small voice in our spirits that will propel us to GO FORWARD. To God, the Father, be glory, honor and praise and to Jesus Christ my Lord!

Would you like to be saved and develop a relationship with God as your Heavenly Father? If you would, invite His Son, Jesus Christ, into your heart. Please pray this prayer: Dear God, please forgive me of my sins. I believe in my heart that Jesus Christ is Your Son. I believe that He died on the cross, shed His blood, and rose from the grave for my salvation. I confess Jesus right now as my Savior and Lord. God fill me with your Holy Spirit so that I can live a life that pleases You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen! If you prayed this prayer and meant it, based on Roman 10:9-10, you are saved. Welcome into God’s Family!

Saturday, March 23, 2019

GO FORWARD! PART 2

BARBARA E. PERKINS

GO FORWARD!

PART 2

In Part 1, in the Book of Exodus 14:13-15 (NKJV), we saw how Almighty God promised to protect His people from an adversary more powerful than they were, if they would dare to trust and obey His word as delivered by Moses. That word was “… Don’t be afraid. Stand still and see the salvation of the LORD… The LORD will fight for you, and you shall hold your peace. … Moses, Tell the children of Israel to GO FORWARD.” Now Israel had every reason to be afraid. Pharaoh had an army and Israel (former slaves) did not. The children of Israel were composed of men, women and mostly children, unable to defend themselves. Pharaoh’s army was probably composed of the most able men in his country. Then God offered these words of grace, “Your enemy is not going to bother you anymore because I will (continue) to fight for you (see 10 plagues in Chapters 7-12).” Hallelujah!!! God said, “YOU SHALL HOLD YOUR PEACE.” Translation: “I AM going to take care of everything. You will not have to act ungodly or curse anyone. You will be at peace.” Sensational, beyond measure!!! Finally, God said, “GO FORWARD!” But, how do you GO FORWARD when the ONLY place to go moving forward was into the Red Sea? It meant the Israel had to trust God for a miracle or turn back towards Pharaoh’s army and slavery or even the possibility of death. Though some of them had already considered turning back, they chose to trust God because of these additional comforting words from Exodus 6:6-7, 6 “Therefore say to the children of Israel: ‘I AM the LORD; I will bring you out from under the burdens of the Egyptians, I will rescue you from their bondage, and I will redeem you with an outstretched arm and with great judgments. 7 I will take you as My people, and I will be your God. Then you shall know that I AM the LORD your God…’” Pharaoh’s bitterness and disobedience caused God’s judgment, which resulted in devastation to his family, his people, as well as his country. But, in the most miraculous circumstances, God’s people were able to GO FORWARD into the Red Sea that actually paused on their behalf, allowing their entire group to walk through midst of the sea on dry ground. AWESOME, AWESOME, AWESOME!!! The LORD still provides for His people and He still expects obedience also. Praise be to Almighty God for His love, faithfulness and compassion.

GO FORWARD! PART 1

BARBARA E. PERKINS

GO FORWARD!

Part 1

Oh, the joy, peace, wisdom, and understanding that comes from reading and meditating God’s word.  I truly love His word because it is a treasure trove of Scriptures that provide a pathway to godly choices in life. In addition, God shares how He deals with us (His people) during adversity in our lives when situations look impossible, IF we allow Him.  So, it was with the Israelites in the Book of Exodus 14:13-15 (NKJV), when Almighty God declared these powerful words through Moses, 13 “And Moses said to the people, ‘DO NOT BE AFRAID. STAND STILL, AND SEE THE SALVATION OF THE LORD, WHICH HE WILL ACCOMPLISH FOR YOU TODAY. For the Egyptians whom you see today, you shall see again no more forever.  14 THE LORD WILL FIGHT FOR YOU, AND YOU SHALL HOLD YOUR PEACE. 15 And the Lord said to Moses, ‘Why do you cry to Me?’ TELL THE CHILDREN OF ISRAEL TO GO FORWARD.’”  In the Book of Exodus, Pharaoh (Egypt’s ruler and an evil enemy of God’s people) regretted that he had allowed the Israelites, who had been his slaves, to leave his country.  As a result, Pharaoh decided to pursue the Israelites, to take them back into bondage.  But that was not God’s plan.  Glory to God!  As confirmed when God defended His people and challenged Pharaoh with these defining words that were repeated several times for clarity, “…LET MY PEOPLE GO, that they may serve Me (Exodus 7:16, 8:1, 20, 9:3 10:3).”  Still Pharaoh refused to acknowledge the power of Almighty God.  Notwithstanding the many acts he had seen God perform through Moses; Pharaoh did not yield to God’s word that was delivered by Moses numerous times and with consequences (Exodus Chapters 7-12).  In spite of this situation that was at a boiling point, including the fear that was in the hearts of the Israelites, and the unsettling tone in Moses’ voice (verse 15), God’s plan was undeterred.  God said to Moses with assurance, “… TELL THE CHILDREN OF ISRAEL TO GO FORWARD.”  Hallelujah to Almighty God, Who is never limited by the circumstances that confront us (Isaiah 55:11/Jeremiah 1:12).

Would you like to be saved and develop a relationship with God as your Heavenly Father?  If you would, invite His Son, Jesus Christ, into your heart.  Please pray this prayer:  Dear God, please forgive me of my sins.  I believe in my heart that Jesus Christ is Your Son.  I believe that He died on the cross, shed His blood, and rose from the grave for my salvation.  I confess Jesus right now as my Savior and Lord.  God fill me with your Holy Spirit so that I can live a life that pleases You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen!  If you prayed this prayer and meant it, based on Roman 10:9-10, you are saved.  Welcome into God’s Family!