2-28-07 Journey To A City "Revelation 21:9-27"

Memory Verse: Revelation 21:23: And the city had no need of the sun, neither of the moon, to shine in it: for the glory of God did lighten it, and the Lamb is the light thereof.

There's a city in the distance
That the eye of faith can see,
And the blood of Christ my Saviour
Purchased entrance there for me.

As I travel toward the city,
With my eyes upon its glow,
I must walk this pilgrim pathway,
Facing dangers as I go.

But my guide, the Holy Spirit,
Christ has sent to lead the way,
And He safely, surely, leads me,
Lest I fall, or go astray.

When I reach that shining city
And the gates are open wide,
I will say, "I would not be here
If you had not been my guide."

Hallelujah! God is faithful!
I will gladly sing for aye,
For His grace brought me to heaven
And His Spirit lead the way.

Wava Campbell

2-27-07 Another Beatitude "Revelation 14:9-13"

Memory Verse: Revelation 14:13: And I heard a voice from Heaven saying unto me, Write, Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from henceforth: Year, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labours; and their works do follow them.

Dr. George Truett asked a widow who was left with the care of several small children, "As you think of heaven, what about it appeals most to you?"

The toilworn woman put aside her sewing and said, "O, sir, that I will rest when I get over there. I am so tired. These children must have my care at all hours of the night. Their father is gone, and I have to be the breadwinner. When I am out of work, I have to go from place to place seeking work. I get so tired in body, mind and spirit. The most appealing thing to me is that I will rest in heaven!"

You may sigh a quiet "Amen."

The load you carry often seems unbearable. The bills keep coming and you must keep going. You may be working more than one job, or at least beyond your strength. The days seem long and the nights fly by. Your life seems a grind. Vacations are scarce or do not exist. Sometimes you are so tense and tired that you do not sleep well.

For now, rest in Christ. Give Him your burdens: "There remaineth therefore a rest to the people of God" (Hebrews 4:9).

When you reach heaven there will be another resting time.

This is not to say that heaven is full of sleepers. The invigorating atmosphere of heaven will furnish both rest and refreshment. We will be both busy and blessed.

Walk closely with Jesus. He will see that you get your rest!

2-26-07 Heaven's Song "Revelation 5:8-14"

Memory Verse: Revelation 5:9: And they sung a new song, saying, Thou are worthy to take the book, and to open the seals thereof: for thou wast slain, and hast redeemed us to God by thy blood out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation.

Peter MacKenzie was an English preacher, full of native humor, and most godly man. Once while preaching from our text he said: "Yes, there will be singing in heaven, and when I get there I want to have David with his harp, and Paul and Peter and the other saints gather around for a sing. And I will announce a hymn from the Wesleyan Hymnal, number 749.

'My God, my Father, while I stray . . .' But someone will say, 'That won't do. You are in heaven, Peter; there's no straying here.' And I will say, Yes, that's so. Let us sing number 651 --
'Though waves and storms go o'er my head,
Though friends be gone and hopes be dead . . .'

But another saint will interrupt, 'Peter, you forget you are in heaven now; there are n o storms here.' Well, I will try again; number 536 --
'Into a world of ruffians sent . . .' Peter! Peter!' someone will say, 'we will put you out unless you stop giving out inappropriate hymns.'
I will then ask -- What can we sing?
And they will say: 'Sing the new song, the song of Moses and the Lamb.' "

Though some may dislike songs about the cross and the blood of Christ, that is the theme of the song of heaven. Those who wish to rehearse for the heavenly choir had better practice songs that tell the message of the cross. Get your heart in tune!

2-25-07 An Inheritance "1 Peter 1:1-10"

Memory Verse: 1 Peter 1:4: To an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you.

You may have dreamed of inheriting a fortune.
Here is something better.

You can become in heir of God . . . a joint heir with Jesus Christ . . . the owner of an inheritance that awaits in heaven.

Now what is the condition?

You must become a child of God through faith in Jesus Christ. There is a common misconception that all are the children of God and all therefore going to heaven. It isn't so.

Who then are the children of God? Those who receive the Lord Jesus as personal Saviour: "But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name" (John 1:12). Being careful to rule out any false assurance, the Bible adds: "Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God" (John 1:13). That is no one becomes a child of God because he is born into a certain family, because he performs certain good works, or receives supposed forgiveness from some religious authority.

To believe -- to receive -- is an act of faith. Those who become children of God do so as a result of faith in Christ. Today is a good day to become a child of God. Here is a prayer to aid you. "DEAR LORD JESUS, I COME TO YOU JUST AS I AM, A SINNER. I TURN FROM MY SIN TO YOU. I NOW TAKE YOU BY FAITH AS MY OWN SAVIOUR AND LORD. I TRUST YOU TO SAVE ME BY YOUR SHED BLOOD AND GUIDE ME IN THE CHRISTIAN LIFE. IN YOUR NAME. AMEN!"

2-24-07 Our High Priest "Hebrews 4:9-16"

Memory Verse: Hebrews 4:14: Seeing then that we have a great high priest, that is passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our profession.

We have one in heaven who understands
His name is Jesus.

Here is the miracle of His love. He who the Bread of Life began His ministry hungering. He who is the Water of Life ended His ministry thirsting. Christ hungered as a man, and fed the hungry as God. He was weary, and yet He is our rest. He paid tribute, and yet He is the King of Kings. He was called a devil, yet He cast out devils. He prayed, and yet He hears prayers. He wept, and He is the One who dries our tears. He was sold for thirty pieces of silver, and yet He redeemed the world with His precious blood. He was led as a lamb to the slaughter, and yet He is the Good Shepherd.

Does heaven seems distant and unreachable?
Jesus is there and awaits your cry.
Do you think you are passing through trials and tests unknown by another other " . . . but was in all points tempted like as we are . . . (Hebrews 4:15).
Have you been hurt by another?
He endured the cross with all its shame.
Do you have less than others?
He had no place to lay His head.
Do some leave you out of their gatherings?
He was despised and rejected.
Our great High priest in heaven knows every burden.

Take all your needs to Him and leave them there!

2-23-07 The Return "1 Thessalonians 4:13-18

Memory Verse: 1 Thessalonians 4:14: For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him.

"If people go to heaven when they die, what is the use of the resurrection?" I was asked today.

The answer is simple.

Christians are coming back with Jesus to get their bodies.

Notice the text calls for God to bring with Him those who have died and are in heaven. Then follows an explanation of the resurrection. This great picture of the Rapture is a scene of reunion. Christians are being reunited with their bodies that have been in the graves.

And calling forth bodies from dust will be no problem for the ONe who formed the first man from the dust of the ground.

But what about those who have no been buried. Their bodies have been burned or lost at sea -- perhaps destroyed in explosions. No matter. Our Lord knows where every atom resides. At that day, He will call them together and form again the bodies of those who have died.

And these new bodies will be superior.

No more sickness. No falling hair. No infirmities of any kind. Those who died with bodies afflicted with any of earth's diseases or deformities will be perfect in the resurrection. John ended all speculation with these words: "Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is" (1 John 3:2).

Great day!

2-22-07 The Hope "Colossians 1:1-14"

Memory Verse: Colossians 1:5: For the hope which is laid up for you in heaven, whereof ye heard before in the word of the truth of the gospel.

There was good evidence that the faith of the Colossian Christians was genuine. It was demonstrated in their love for all the saints. Watching the lives of these Christians one concluded they were real. Their earthly walk gave testimony that they were headed for heaven.

The Pulpit Commentary says of our text: "What the apostle hears of 'the faith and love' of the Colossian brethren moves him to give thanks for 'the hope which is in store for them in heaven.' Of that hope this faith and love are to him a pledge and an earnest, even as the 'seal of the Spirit.' "

People who are going to heaven ought to love one another while on earth. Some expect to love others in heaven but they don't seem to be practicing here below.

To live above with saints in love
Will be eternal glory;
T live below with saints we know
Is quite another story.

But love for one another is the identifying mark of those who are citizens of heaven: "We know that we have passed from death unto life, because we love the brethren. He that loveth not his abideth in death . . . And this is his commandment, That we should believe on the name of his Son Jesus Christ, and love one another, as he gave us commandment" (1 John 3:14,23)

If love for others identifies those who are born again and are going to heaven, will others know your destination by your present attitude?

If no, it's time for a change!

2-21-07 Citizens Of Heaven "Philippians 3:15-21"

Memory Verse: Philippians 3:30: For our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ.

This is world is not our home.
We're just passing through.

Strangers, Peter called us. Pilgrims. No wonder we don't always fit in. We're citizens of another country. Foreigners.

Our language is different, regardless of the mother tongue. Every earthly language has its carnal and spiritual tongue. For the vast majority of earth's citizens everything centers in materialism and is punctuated with profanity. Using that same language there is a minority who speaks the language of heaven, a divine dialect centered in Jesus and punctuated with praise.

The aim of heaven's citizens should be different. While others hoard earth's trinkets and struggle to own as much as possible of this troubled planet, the citizen of heaven remembers that there is a better land in which to invest. He is driven by a statement of his Lord that contrasted the owning of the whole world to the value of one soul.

Heaven's citizens are good citizens of earth. The obey the laws, treat their neighbors with respect and kindness and work for the good of the nation in which they live. They take part in worthwhile projects and bring a positive influence in any community. Still, they are not overwhelmed by earth's problems, knowing that God is working out His purpose and that at the proper time, their Lord will come.

While traveling through this world, heaven's citizens are not immune to earth's afflictions. They catch cold, get the measles and sometimes have headaches. They even experience death because they are members of Adam's race. But they know that life's end can only take them home. And that is where thy really long to be . . . heaven!

2-20-07 Lord of All "Philippians 2:1-11"

Memory Verse: Philippians 2:10: That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth.

Leonardo da Vinci took a friend to see and criticize his masterpiece, "The Last Supper." Upon seeing the great work, the friend remarked, "The most striking thing in the picture is the cup!" the artist immediately took his brush and wiped out the cup, saying: "Nothing in my painting shall attract more attention than the face of my Master!"

The earth has known Jesus in His humiliation. The record of His life and ministry here is one of tears and the cross. His resurrection guaranteed the truth of His words and His deity. Still millions turn Him away even today.

He has ascended to heaven to prepare places for His own and to intercede for us. We shall go to be with Him at the end of life's journey. One day He will return to take His bride to heaven. Those living at the time will not die but will be translated in a moment, caught away to heaven.

At the end of the Tribulation period, Jesus will come as King of Kings and Lord of Lords. Then his full authority will be known and recognized by all. Every knee shall bow to Him and every tongue will confess that He is Lord of all.

Some allow Him to be Lord of all now. They are headed for heaven but have a taste of heaven on earth. F.B. Meyer cried, "Oh for more of heaven on the way to heaven!" The he explained that this is a prayer we can almost answer for ourselves by seeking more of Him who is Himself the heaven of heaven -- the Lord Jesus.

Make Him Lord of all!

2-19-07 Far Better "Philippians 1:19-30"

Memory Verse: Phiippians 1:23: For I am in a strait betwixt two, having a desire to depart, and to be with Christ; which is far better.

An old Scotch preacher had struggled all through his ministry to help those who were facing death. He had difficulty in this part of his ministry because he had never himself conquered the fear of death.

Near the end of his life, he moved to another house. When all the furniture had been removed from the old home, he lingered there. His children had been born there. He had prepared hundreds of sermons within those walls. It was hard for him to leave. A thousand memories moved through his mind.

Finally, one of those helping in the move came to him and said, "Everything's gone/ and the new house is better than this one."

It was just what he needed. The sermon in that statement was unforgettable. He understood Paul's desire to depart and be with Christ because heaven is far better. The years that remained found him capable in aiding others to prepare for heaven.

There are many wonderful sights on earth . . . but heaven is far better.

Fond friendships are formed on earth . . . but heaven is far better.

Dream homes rise out of the minds of architects and under the sound of the builder's hammer . . . but heaven is far better.

Sweet music is played by gifted people and it echoes in great auditoriums produced by famous orchestras . . . but heaven is far better.

And for the Christian, heaven is home!

2-18-07 Present With The Lord "11 Corinthians 5:1-10"

Memory Verse: 11 Corinthians 5:8: We are confident, I say, and willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord.

Some doubt that Christians go to heaven when they die. They are unlike Paul. He was confident.

Some think that the soul and body are one and that both will perish in the grave. Paul looked forward to a day when he would no longer be limited by the flesh. He anticipated being "absent from the body."

Some think the saints will sleep in the earth until the coming of the Lord and that they will not see Him until the resurrection. Paul never entertained such thoughts. He knew that the moment he was absent from the body he would be present with the Lord. He was confident.

Some think that Christians will bypass heaven altogether and only reign with Christ on earth. Paul rejected such conclusions, knowing that at death he would be with Jesus -- and that he knew that Jesus was no longer in the grave. At the end of life he was homesick for heaven.

No wonder Paul could write: "O death, where is they sting? O grave, where is they victory?" (1 Corinthians 15:55).

He was confident.

If you have been entertaining doubts about heaven being the home of the saved, put those doubts out of your mind and be confident.

If you are saved and haven been concerned about a long stay in the grave, erase those faulty thoughts and enjoy the hope of heaven. Be confident.

Life is short at it's longest but death is not the end for one who has been born again.

I'm confident!

2-17-07 The Third Heaven "11 Corinthians 12:1-12"

Memory Verse; 11 Corinthians 12:2: I knew a man in Christ above fourteen years ago, (whether in the body, I cannot tell, or whether out of the body, I cannot tell: God knoweth,) such an one caught up to the third heaven.


What is the "third heaven?" It is the abode of God.

The first heaven is the atmospheric heaven that surrounds the earth. The second heaven is where the planets and stars are located. The third heaven is the focal point of the universe and the place to which Christians go when they die.

Paul was stoned at Lystra and it is generally thought that he died during this stoning and then resurrected. See Acts 14:19-20. Approximately fourteen years later he wrote the words of our text. Most feel he was looking back to that experience. Answering a question concerning this in his book "Bible Questions Answered," Dr. William Pettingill said: " . . . if we believe, as seems very probable, that Paul is discussing his Lystra Experience in 11 Corinthians 12 you will find that just about 'fourteen years' elapsed between them. (See 11 Corinthians 12:2.) Whether the stoning was actually to death or not, it is certain his recovering so quickly and so fully miraculous, and that the infirmity of the flesh resulting for the experience, was given him only that he might not be ruined in his testimony by undue exaltation."

Reflecting on the experience, Paul said that paradise was unspeakable. He couldn't find the words to describe it. Some future for Christians!

We're headed for the "third heaven!"

2-16-07 His Ascension "Acts 1:1-11"

Memory Verse: Acts 1:11: Which also said, Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? this same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven.

Jesus ascended into heaven. He had finished His work of redemption on the cross. He had risen from the grave as He had promised. He had commissioned His disciples to carry the good news to the world. Now He was returning to the Father . . . to heaven.

Why?

Why did Jesus not stay on earth after He had paid for our sins? Why did He not establish His Kingdom on earth at that time?

Because He had work to do in heaven . . . the work of intercession. Though saved from sin, the converted are frail and need His continual intercession. "Wherefore he is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by him, seeing he ever liveth to make intercession from them" (Hebrews 7:25).

Do you fear to receive Christ because you think yourself too weak to live the Christian life? Lay aside your fears and leave your tomorrows with Jesus. He is our advocate with the Father: "My little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous" (1 John 2:1). "For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus" (1 Timothy 2:5).

Perhaps you have failed God so grievously that you are about to despair. You no longer feel worthy to continue in Christian service. You are about to resign your offices at the church. Flee to your advocate . . . the Lord Jesus. Confess your sins and failures to Him.

You have an advocate in heaven!

2-15-07 A Prepared Place "John 14:1-6"

Memory Verse: John 14:2: In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you.

Dr. Charles E. Fuller received the following letter from a listener to "The Old Fashioned Revival Hour."

"Next Sunday you are to talk about Heaven. I am interested in that land, because I have held a clear title to a bit of property there for over fifty-five years. I did no buy it. It was given to me without money and without price. But the donor purchased it for me at tremendous sacrifice . . . It is not a vacant lot. For more than half a century I have been sending materials out of which the greatest architect and builder of the universe has been building a home for me, which will never need to be remodeled nor repaired because it will suit me perfectly, individually, and will never grow old.

"Termites can never undermine its foundations for they rest upon the Rock of ages. Fire cannot destroy it. Floods cannot wash it away.

"I hope to hear your sermon . . . but I have no assurance that I shall be able to do so. My ticket to Heaven has no date marked for the journey -- no return coupon -- and no permit for baggage.
"Yes, I am ready to go, and I may not be here while you are talking next Sunday evening, but I shall meet you there some day."

Fuller's correspondent is but one of millions who have looked forward to arriving at that prepared place called heaven. The One who formed the earth, the heavens and all that are in them in six days, have been preparing places for His bride for nearly two thousand years.

Are you prepared for heaven?
If so, heaven is prepared for you!

2-14-07 Joy In Heaven "Luke 15:1-10"

Memory Verse: Luke 15:10: Likewise, I say unto you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner that repenteth.


A humble Moravian workman asked John Wesley before his conversion this searching question: "Do you hope to be saved?"
"Yes, I do," replied Wesley.
"On what ground do you hope for salvation," asked the Moravian.
"Because of my endeavors to serve God," said Wesley.

The Moravian made no reply. He only shook his head and walked silently away. Wesley, in speaking of the incident later said, "I thought him very uncharitable, saying in my heart, 'Would he rob me in my endeavors?' "

There came a day when Wesley understood the Gospel and was saved. Then he knew why the Moravian had reacted as he had . . . because salvation is solely by grace, "not by works of righteousness which we have done" (Titus 3:5). His brother, Charles, expressed that truth in these words:
"Could my tears forever flow,
Could my zeal no languor know,
These for sin could not atone;
Thou must save, and Thou alone;
In my hand no price I bring,
Simply to Thy cross I cling."

Heaven is glad over every sinner who comes to Christ for salvation. And with good reason. Another will go to heaven. Another life gains meaning. Another has his record cleared, his sins forgiven. And Christ is glorified . . . for salvation is all of His grace.

Take Christ as your personal Saviour today. Heaven will rejoice over you!

2-13-07 Names In Heaven "Luke 10:13-24"

Memory Verse: Luke 10:20: Notwithstanding in this rejoice not, that the spirits are subject unto you; but rather rejoice, because your names are written in heaven.

The disciples are delighted. They had returned from their preaching mission having experienced blessing and power. Luke describes it: "And the seventy returned again with joy, saying, Lord, even the devils are subject unto us through thy name" (Luke 10:17).

But there was something better in which they could rejoice. Their names were written in heaven.

Commenting on this text, Dr. H.A. Ironside wrote: "There is something far more blessed, however, than working miracles. That is knowledge that one is right with God! The Lord Jesus told these exuberant disciples not to rejoice simply because demons were subject to them, but rejoice rather because their names were written in heaven. This is true of all who have trusted Christ for themselves. All such have their names written in the Lamb's Book of Life, and these names will never be erased, but will remain for all eternity."

A study of heaven reveals that many things are happening there in preparation of the Christian's arrival. Heaven is a blessed place. And it is important that our names are written there! The old song is right: "There's a new name written down in glory . . . and its mine!

If you are confident that your name is in the Lamb's Book of Life, you can rejoice. You've a reason to be glad. Have you longed to perform miracles? Have you longed for great power? These cannot compare with the privilege of having your name written in heaven.

When you get to heaven you'll not be a stranger.
Your name is written there!

2-12-07 Known In Heaven "Matthew 10:32-42"

Memory Verse: Matthew 1-:32: Whosoever therefore shall confess me before men, him will I confess also before my Father which is in heaven.

"You don't know us," a missionary recently said to me, "but we read your books and support your ministry in prayer." My heart was blessed in thinking of this family praying for me. My name has been spoken before God in their family altar and until then I had been unaware of it. I am known in their home.

Christians are known in heaven. They are owned and confessed there by Jesus in His mediating ministry before the Father.

Meanwhile, back on planet earth, we are to confess Christ before men. Secret discipleship is inconsistent with the Gospel message. We are to confess Christ openly . . . . unashamed.

Here then is the value of the public invitation in church services. Immediate opportunity is given for people to declare their faith in Christ. Some hold back and will not respond to a public invitation but they miss the blessing. Perhaps this is your week to step forward at the pastor's call.

Baptism is another means of confessing Christ before others. While baptism does not save, it is an important part of Christian experience. Baptism is public identification with Christ. All Christians ought to be baptized.

But the church service is not the only place to confess Christ. Some do well among the saints but are secretive about their faith in Christ while at work or in other public contacts. Begin now to confess Christ openly -- everywhere. Let others know that you are a Christian.

You're known in heaven.
Let the whole world know!

2-11-07 The Narrow Way "Matthew 7:13-23"

Memory Verse: Matthew 7:21:
Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.

Cults promoting plans of works to get to heaven often quote the above verse. They stress the "doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven" and present it in opposition to verses offering salvation on the basis of faith alone, such as John 3:16 "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life."

Was Jesus contradicting Himself?
Not at all. Let us see what the verse teaches.

"Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven.... " makes it clear that the way to heaven is not the route of mere profession. This is similar to James 2:14: "What doth it profit, my brethren, though a man say he hath faith, and have not works? can faith (that kind of faith - - mere profession) save him?" "....but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven" is the part of the verse that tells the way to heaven. But what is the will of the Father in heaven? We must go to John 6:40 to find out: "And this is the will of him that sent me, that every one which seeth the Son, and believeth on him, may have everlasting life: and I will raise him up at the last day."

So the will of the Father in heaven is that we believe on the Lord Jesus Christ. Mere profession cannot save. Religious ceremony cannot save. Salvation comes through faith in Christ.

The way to heaven is as narrow as faith.

2-10-07 Gifts From Heaven "Matthew 7: 1-11"

Memory Verse: Matthew 7:11
If ye then, being evil know how to give good gifts unto your children, how much more shall your Father which is in heaven give good things to them that ask him?

Answers to prayers are gifts from heaven...personal presentations from our Heavenly Father to His children.

We are invited to ask. To knock. To seek. There is nothing mysterious about this call to prayer. How tender and close is our walk with our Heavenly Father.

What do you need?
As for it.

But what if we ask and do not receive? Does this result from a lack of faith or a misunderstanding about prayer?
Not always.

Another important factor must be considered --- the Father's will: "And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask anything according to his will, he heareth us" (1 John 6:14). So, the Father's will must be taken into account. He knows what is best for us and sometimes we ask for things that would be harmful if received. In those cases, the Father's wisdom requires withholding the answer.

How then shall we pray?
Ask. Knock. Seek. And leave the results with our Father. Ask big. Knock expectantly. Seek with anticipation. But never demand. Allow all prayer to be offered with the clear understanding that you will be happy with the Father's will.

The four hardest words to prayer are these? THY WILL BE DONE. Nevertheless, they should be the expression of every yielded heart. Our Father knows how to give GOOD GIFTS to His children.

2-9-07 Treasures In Heaven "Matthew 6:19-24"

Memory Verse: Matthew 6:20:
But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal.


Shortly after the death of her aged Christian father, a young lady visited his associate in business. He was not a Christian and had lived only to amass riches.

The business partner said to the grieving daughter, "Your father was a good man. He lived for God and others. His chief joy was to bring happiness to others. I have never known a man more generous with his money. Right up to the end of his beautiful life, His thoughts were of others. In death he went to his riches. In death, I will leave the riches which I could have used for God and others."

The paradox of this conversation is the realization by the surviving partner of the real issues of life and his unwillingness to do anything about them.

There are many like him.

A.J. Gordon wrote: "I warn you that it will go hard with you when the Lord comes to reckon with you if He finds your wealth boarded up in needless accumulation instead of being carefully devoted to giving the Gospel to the lost."

The bank of heaven awaits deposits by those who have been born again. Entrusted with time, talents and material possessions, we have the opportunity to invest them for Christ and in so doing we lay up treasures in heaven.
Treasure there are untouchable.

How much will you deposit today?
Heaven's deposit may require an earthly withdrawal of funds.

Are you willing to reinvest?

2-8-07 As It Is In Heaven "Matthew 6:1-15"

Memory Verse: Matthew 6: 9-10:
After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which are in heaven, Hallowed by they name. They Kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.


Heaven is a perfect place.
Earth isn't.

Why this difference between heaven and earth since bother are from the hand of our perfect Creator?

The reason for earth's woes is sin. Every evil on earth springs from sin: "Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned" (Romans 5:12).

Sin is the reason for every hospital and cemetery. It is the cause of every prison and chain. Sin enslaves while promising liberty. It offers pleasure and gives pain. Sin has caused the great chasm between heaven and earth.

Earth weeps.
Heaven sings.

Is there really any profit in praying that the Father's will be done here as it is in heaven?
Yes.

This is a prayer for the coming Kingdom of Christ....the Millennium. When the King returns, the Father's will will be carried out all over the earth" ......for the earth shall be full of the knowledge of the LORD, as the waters cover the sea" (Isaiah 11:9).

Discouraged with world conditions?
A better day is coming. Our Lord will come again.

Perhaps today!

2-7-07 The Goal "Matthew 5:38-48"

Memory Verse: Matthew 5:48: Be ye therefore perfect even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.

"He's like his father."
What a compliment for most sons to hear!

We are to be like our Heavenly Father. But, of course, we fall far short of that worthy goal.

Some have thought this verse demands sinless perfection as a requirement to enter heaven. Not so. If that were the case not one would enter that promised place. Writing to the "little children".... those who could be sure they possessed eternal life (1 John 5:13) ...... John write: If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us" (1 John 1:8).

Why then did Jesus call for perfection? Hear Dr. Rice again: "God simply set a perfect standard. I have always told my children never to lie, never to do wrong. God could not afford to say that it is all right for a Christian to sin, for it is not all right. It is our own fault, and wickedness and sin always bring trouble. But it is still a fact that we do sin. God's standard is perfect, yet we do not keep it. That is the reason we must have a Saviour."

And here's an added truth: The call here is to maturity in the Christian like. Each day ought to find us on higher grounds. Victories today will bring greater success tomorrow. Meditation on the Bible, memorization of its verses and application of its truths in daily living will bring growth in grace and in the knowledge of Christ.

God's Word will make us clean and will bring Christian maturity.

Others will notice that you're becoming more like your Father every day!

2-6-07 "The Father" Matthew 5:13-19

Memory Verse: Matthew 5:16: Let you light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.

Children of the Heavenly Father have a responsibility. They are to live so as to honor His name.

Commenting on this text, Dr. John R. Rice has written: "A light under a bushel measure would do no good; so a Christian who gives no testimony for Christ would do no good. The candle should be 'on a candlestick' (vs. 15), so a Christian ought to be in a church. The candlestick stands for a local church in Revelation 1:20. Christians should let their lights shine by a public profession of faith, baptism, public testimony, soul winning, preaching of the Gospel and good works.

"A Christian life ought not to be kept secret. Do not believe Satan's lie that men can live just as good outside the church as in it, or please God just as well without public testimonies. Compare this with Matthew 10:32, 33; Romans 10:9,10; Hebrews 10:25. A Christian's good deeds ought not to be just for show, yet his good life and works out to shine before men (vs16) so that they will glorify God."

Our Heavenly Father cares about all living things on earth. Even a sparrow that falls is the object of His concern. And Jesus taught that we are of more value than many sparrows.

The old hymn said it well:

"God understands your heartache,
He sees the falling tear;
And whispers 'I am with thee;
The falter not nor fear.' "

Since He cares about our earthly needs, we ought to care about His will and be careful to live in a manner that pleases Him.

2-5-07 Rewards In Heaven Matthew 5:1-12

Memory Verse: Matthew 5:12: Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you.

You can't take it with you.

But you can send it on ahead.

The Bible is clear in its teaching that no one can earn heaven through good works: "Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us....." (Titus 3:5). Neither are we saved by faith and works: "Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Jesus Christ, that we might be justified by the faith of Christ, and not by the works of the law: for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified" (Galatians 2:16). Salvation is by faith alone: "Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ" (Romans 5:1).

Equally clear is the truth that the saved can lay up rewards in heaven through faithful service for Christ. And these rewards may be the most underrated possible possessions in the universe.

One of the shocks of heaven will be the revelation of what really should have counted on earth. Riches here compared to rewards there will seem unimportant. We will wonder at our folly and the lack of wisdom in our presents priorities.

We must lay down riches here to lay them up in heaven.

Interest rates here will seem small compared to God's hundredfold paid in heaven.

Where are you investments?

Heaven's dividends are eternal.

2-4-07 Settled In Heaven Psalm 119:89-96

Memory Verse: Psalm 119:89: For ever, O LORD, thy word is settled in Heaven.

The Bible is a completed Book. No more written revelations are to be unearthed or given. All supposed added revelations must be recognized as fraudulent. Consider Revelation 22:18 "For I testify unto every man that heareth the words of the prophecy of this book, If any man shall add unto these things, God shall add unto him the plagues that are written in the book."

There will never be a discovery or demonstrated scientific fact that will disprove the Bible's reliability. The supposed proofs of the theory of evolution that were taught in my college experience are not outdated. I still have the major textbook that confidently laid out the links in the chain of man's evolution. Today, a number of those links are known to be in error and have been discarded. The theory has had to be revised. Yet the Bible stands! Jesus said: "Heaven and earth shall pass away: but my words shall not pass away" (Mark 12:31).

There will never be a judicial act from heaven to change any part of the Bible. The constitution of the United States of America is a wonderful work and is called a living document. Nevertheless it has been amended again and again as needed. The Bible is perfect and needs no amending.

God's Word is sure. Peter declared: "We have also a more sure word of prophecy: whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place....." (11 Peter 1:19).

The Bible is complete....perfect....settled in heaven.

Depend on it!

2-4-07 A Friend In Heaven Psalm 73:23-28

Memory Verse: Psalm 73:25: Whom have I in heaven but thee? and there is none upon earth that I desire beside thee.

Upon the death of Anne Sullivan, her patient, painstaking teacher, Helen Keller said, " I look forward to the world to come where all physical limitations will drop from me like shackles/ I shall again find my beloved teacher, and engage joyfully in greater service than I have yet known!"

A man of God once sat at our table and reminisced about his son who had died in the service of our country. He had been an only child and had looked forward to entering the ministry upon his return from the war. The good man shared his heart with us and said that he and his wife were looking forward to heaven to see their son.

Many anticipate heaven because a friend or loved one is there whom they long to see. Heaven will be a place of glad reunions but the greatest thrill of all will be our meeting with Jesus....our most faithful friend.

Christains have a friend in heaven. Joseph Scriven said it well: "What a friend we have in Jesus!"

People often boast of having friends in high places. Let one know the President or one of his cabinet and he will announce it to the news media so that all his friends and neighbors will know of his important connection with one in power. Name dropping becomes his favorite pastime.

But we have a friend in the highest place in the universe. No earthly sphere of influence compares with the throne of God.

And our friend is there.

Aren't you glad you have a friend in heaven?

2-2-07 The Throne Psalm 11

Memory Verse: Psalm 11:4: The LORD is in his holy temple, the LORD'S throne is in heaven: his eyes behold, his eyelids try, the children of men.

Heaven is the focal point of theuniverse.
God's throne is in heaven.
Justice and jundment proceed from the throne of God.

There are many wrongs in the world as a result of sin. Wars rage. Oppression thrives. Dishonesty is rampant. Evil people seem to prosper. But God will make everything right. There will be a day of reckoning. The Psalmist declared: "Justice and judgment are the habitation of thy throne..." (Psalm 89:14).

God's throne is a throne of grace. While none deserve the privilege of prayer, God deals with us in a grace. Thankfully, our merit is not a factor. We come to the throne on the basis of Christ's death for us on the cross: "Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need" (Hebrews 4:16)

The throne of God is a place of breathtaking beauty. John described it as follows: "And immediately I was in the spirit" and, behold, a throne was set in heaven, and one sat on the throne. And he that sat was to look upon like a jasper and a sardine stone: and there was a rainbow round about the throne, in sitht like unto an emerald...And before the throne there was a sea of glass like unto crystal.." (Revelation 4:2,3,6)

The throne of God is a place of prasie: "And they sung a new song, saying, Thou art worthy..." (Revelation 5:9).

Someday we will join the heavenly choir...and sing His praise!

2-1-07 Caught Up 11 Kings 2:1-11

Memory Verse: 11 Kings 2:11: And it came to pass, as they still went on, and talked, that, behold, there appeared a chariot of fire, and horses of fire, and parted them both asunder; and Elijah went up by a whirlwind into heaven.

Heaven is a real place.

Elijah ascended there without experiencing physical death. He was caught up to heaven in a chariot of fire. Enoch was the only other human being to escape death, going directly to heaven. In the New Testament it is written of him: "By faith Enoch was translated that he should not see death; and was not found, because God had translated him: for before his translation he had this testimony, that he pleased God" (Hebrews 11:5).

Translation. What a good word to describe the miraculous journey from earth to heaven taken by these two men of God. In translating words from one language to another we make thoughts and statements understandable that were formerly mysterious. When Elijah and Enoch arrived in heaven their discoveries must have been enlightening beyond their wildest dreams.

Christ is coming again. Perhaps soon. When He comes He will take all living Christians to heaven. IF that great event takes place before we experience physical death, we shall be translated....take to heaven....caught up: "Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord" (1 Thessalonians 4:17). Those who have died before His coming will be resurrected and will also be caught up to meet Him.

If Christ should come today, are you ready to be CAUGHT AWAY?