tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-55619649014156776672024-03-13T21:08:20.334-07:00Bobbe's Bible BlogDiscover amazing truth from God's living Word, relevant to you today. A believer or not, acquire a basic knowledge of the Bible. Learn to see yourself through God's eyes, experience His grace, relax in His sovereignty, find peace.BOBBE'S BIBLE BLOGhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11819390443575125692noreply@blogger.comBlogger273125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5561964901415677667.post-35769096972693846482023-02-19T19:57:00.001-08:002023-02-19T19:57:23.268-08:00BECAUSE GOD IS SOVEREIGN<p> <span style="font-size: large;">Many, many years ago, before I started studying the Bible and learning who God is, '<i>sovereign' </i>was not a word I used very often. I remember looking up a dictionary definition, "A supreme ruler possessing ultimate power," said the dictionary. This is the definition of 'God'. The spelling of this word didn't come naturally for me. I focused on the ending 'reign' and could associate that with a monarchy. A king or queen 'reigns'. One day I stumbled on the verse in Ephesians 1:11. . . <span> </span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><span><b><i>"In him we were also chosen, having been predestined according to the plan of him who works out everything in conformity with the purpose of his will."</i></b></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><span>I realized I became a believer not because I was 'good' or super intelligent, or made the choice to believe, but because God choose me to be His child. And he had a purpose, a plan and the power.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><span>Over the ups and downs of life, good times and trying times, I've always focused on the fact that God is sovereign - even though I sometimes try to come up with my own plan. As we grow in the knowledge of the Lord, we realize more and more that faith grows and peace comes only when we consciously are aware of God's sovereignty. Whatever happens is what our Lord has planned. He doesn't need to explain why things are the way they are - God answers to no one! As humans, we may desire to be the one in charge and have full control, but isn't that a scary idea that we could determine all outcomes? </span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><span>The Lord knew we would struggle and no matter how hard we try, we'd fail to be 'perfect'. Only perfect people go to heaven, so God came to earth as a man, fully human, and fully divine. He had chosen "before the creature of the world" - Ephesians 1:4, a group of people who would be called 'sheep' and they would follow the Messiah, Jesus Christ who was with God from the beginning - John 1:1, and walked among us - John 1:14. Jesus is our good Shepherd, our Lord and Savior, he said "If you've seen me, you've seen the Father", John 14:9. </span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><span>Our faith is not based on what we've done, but on what God has done for us. By His grace, He has given us the gift of faith. In some ways walking by the law is easier than walking in faith. If we don't walk by faith, we are often fearful. Christians don't need to fear 'tomorrow' - God is the same today, yesterday and forever. When we fear, Satan is absolutely delighted! God has allowed Satan to roam this earth but he has set boundaries for Satan. Read the book of Job who went through some awful stuff but God always was in control of what was happening. </span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><span>I'd like to share a poem written by Carol Hopson, a good and faithful Bible teacher.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><span><b><i>FAITH vs FEAR</i></b></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><span><b><i>Did you know that fear and faith</i></b></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><span><b><i> cannot exist as one?</i></b></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><span><b><i>For either you have faith in God</i></b></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><span><i><b> or Satan's fear has won.</b></i></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><span><i><b>For God has said, "Be not afraid!</b></i></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><span><i><b> I will take care of you.</b></i></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><span><b><i>Whatever</i></b><i><b> comes into your life</b></i></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><span><i><b>My grace will see you through."</b></i></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><span><i><b>"So please show Me you love Me,</b></i></span></span></p><p><i style="font-size: x-large;"><b> and trust my sovereignty.</b></i></p><p><i style="font-size: x-large;"><b>Then peace you cannot comprehend</b></i></p><p><i style="font-size: x-large;"><b> will set your spirit free.</b></i></p><p><i style="font-size: x-large;"><b><br /></b></i></p><p><i><b style="font-size: x-large;">Walk in faith rather than fear, this is what your </b><span style="font-size: large;"><b>heavenly</b></span><b style="font-size: x-large;"> Father wants for you. Because we know God is good and a loving </b><span style="font-size: large;"><b>sovereign</b></span><b style="font-size: x-large;"> </b></i><span style="font-size: large;"><b><i>Father, we never need to walk in fear. . .of anything!</i></b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b><i>Thank you Lord for showing us this truth.</i></b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></p><p><br /></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><span><b><i><br /></i></b></span></span></p>BOBBE'S BIBLE BLOGhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11819390443575125692noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5561964901415677667.post-56603416559939734432022-09-03T19:28:00.000-07:002022-09-19T12:30:17.476-07:00TOO GOOD TO BE TRUE<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjcKA4FipZXD1oZGMrtuR1EmSxPernfiQDk-djdc2k_IKbIY7YMLCnIl6_AxNvCvAYpjHg-aq0XAM0jbAggUMy-gUbVIdzroLO68QwxHd4VZ5xAFupUaefzLKb_TtWWKwQKGKHLZ0EnwQlQFGg-cV95Za39v4fztxp5UffeFKIo-xYO073mlqXyBZr/s4032/IMG_0593.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjcKA4FipZXD1oZGMrtuR1EmSxPernfiQDk-djdc2k_IKbIY7YMLCnIl6_AxNvCvAYpjHg-aq0XAM0jbAggUMy-gUbVIdzroLO68QwxHd4VZ5xAFupUaefzLKb_TtWWKwQKGKHLZ0EnwQlQFGg-cV95Za39v4fztxp5UffeFKIo-xYO073mlqXyBZr/s320/IMG_0593.HEIC" width="240" /></a></div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-large; text-align: left;">This a photo of my husband Mike and I - I am a romantic soul and sometimes</span><span style="font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"> I look at him and think "He's too good to be true!" I bet you have things in your life like that. . .a new baby, a great vacation, a fantastic job, a new puppy. The Lord shows His love for us in many different ways, sometimes in ways you wouldn't expect. </span></div><p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">And then, we 'hit the wall', something very stressful happens, we're at a loss as to how to 'fix it'. If you not only read, but study the Bible, you will be amazed how in touch with God you'll become. And the result of being in touch with the One who knows your every circumstance is that you will feel at peace. In fact, you'll have a peace that surpasses understanding. Philippines 4:7 "And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus." We are always 'safe' in Jesus. Sometimes we don't feel safe, but by faith we can know we are.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Do you know that right now those who believe are "seated with Christ in the heavenly realm", Eph 2:6, and that we are his workmanship, and we are complete in him, Col. 2:10. I love the fact that I am a "saint" Eph 1:1, and if Jesus is your Lord and Savior, you too are a saint!</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Romans 8:1 says that there is "no condemnation" for those who believe. You know why? When we accept God's son as our Savior, God sees Jesus in us, not as we are in the human state. All sin of mine and yours was erased on the cross of Christ. </span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">The more you read, the more you learn, and you too will no doubt come to the conclusion that 'This is too good to be true!'</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">We are leaving tomorrow morning for a car trip up the coast of California. We have no set agenda but know the Lord will take us to wonderful places, and best of all, we will be able to rid ourselves for a time of being on a schedule and will savor this time with the Lord and each other.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><i>As always Lord, we will trust You to lead us to special places and a special time together. We ask that you keep us safe and protect our family when we are gone.</i></span></p>BOBBE'S BIBLE BLOGhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11819390443575125692noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5561964901415677667.post-75656647051086898492022-04-16T17:47:00.002-07:002022-04-16T17:49:29.954-07:00YOU HAVE SOMETHING RESERVED FOR YOU IN HEAVEN<span style="font-size: large;"><b>"Praise be to God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade - kept in heaven for you, who through faith are shielded by God's power until the coming of the salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time." 1 Peter 1:1 -5 </b></span><div><span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">This is a very bold statement that Peter makes. I first learned this verse many years ago in King James Version which uses the word "reserved" for our inheritance. Every time I read or think of this verse I am reminded that 'reservations' are important. You may have plans to go to a certain restaurant for dinner but then find out, without a reservation, you are out of luck. Same goes for many things, airline reservations, hotel, golf time, etc. </span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">So, assuming you would like to go to heaven when you leave this earth to spend eternity with God, what do you have to do to make sure that happens? </span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">This is a test. . .true or false</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">1. Go to church every Sunday</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">2. Read the Bible, God's Word, every day</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">3. Tithe - give 10% of your income to the church</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">4. Never swear, drink alcohol or smoke.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">5. None of the above</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Questions 1 - 4 are false although many believe this describes a Christian. </span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Only #5 is true. If this be so, what then do we need to do to claim our inheritance that has been reserved for us in heaven. Notice this inheritance has been kept for us through <i>faith</i> and <i>shielded </i>by God's power. We cannot claim any credit for our salvation.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><b>"For it is by grace you have been saved through faith - and this not from yourself, it is a gift of God, not by works, so no one can boast." </b></span><b style="font-size: x-large;">Ephesians 2:8.</b></div><div><b style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></b></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">In Romans 4 we read we are never justified by our 'works' - then we'd have something to boost about. Rather, we are counted as 'righteous' because we believe God. . ."<b>Abraham believed God and it was credited to him as righteousness."</b></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">God sent His son, Jesus Christ, to become our righteousness before God. Jesus went to the cross and died for the sin you and I commit daily and if we accept Jesus as our Lord and Savior we will never have to pay the penalty for sin because it's already been paid for.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">We judge one another based on our human behavior. We can't see into people's hearts. When you become a Christian, you want to behave in a way that will make others see 'good' rather than 'bad'. This is why God has put His Holy Spirit in those of us who believe. The Spirit reminds us who we are in Christ. I have often said, you may never get your friend, family member, neighbor, etc. to study the Bible, <b>but they will study your life! We become a living testament to others. </b>I am not talking about being 'religious' - in fact, it was the 'religious' people of His day that Jesus most often spoke against. He could tell the difference in those who followed Him and those who followed religious laws and sacraments. </span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Reach out to Jesus and claim the inheritance reserved for you in heaven. This has become a scary world during the last couple of months - life is changing, fast! We must go to our creator and Heavenly Father and know that even though we can see the suffering of the Ukrainian people on TV every night, the price of gas and groceries going up, border control out of hand. . .God is still in control and has a plan and a purpose for everything He does.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><b>"In him we were also chosen, having been predestined according to the plan of him who works out everything in conformity with the purpose of his will." Ephesians 1:11</b></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Paul who wrote this letter to the Ephesians also tells them that God has done this so those who have hope in Christ </span><span style="font-size: x-large;">might be for the praise of his glory.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: x-large;">Many blessings to my readers and wishing you, no matter what your circumstances, a blessed 'Resurrection Sunday'.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: x-large;">Keep the faith, <i>Bobbe</i></span></div><div><span style="font-size: x-large;"><i><br /></i></span></div><div><span style="font-size: x-large;"><i>Thank you Lord for dying for our sins so we could be righteous in God's eyes and live in heaven eternally.</i></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><i><br /></i></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></div></div>BOBBE'S BIBLE BLOGhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11819390443575125692noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5561964901415677667.post-32791785520140547592022-01-06T12:33:00.000-08:002022-01-06T12:33:22.556-08:00MY DESTINY<p> <span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">It's been over a year since I wrote my last blog, but I never stopped thinking of my readers or stopped blogging in my head. So much has happened this past year. After being a widow for over 5 years, I remarried! We first met in a creative writing class in September 2018 and soon found we enjoyed each other's company and begin to spend a lot of time together. I smile when I remember the day he walked through my door and said, "I am so happy to have you in my life!" New Year's Eve 2020, Michael proposed to me. We had Chinese food for dinner and he buried his proposal in a fortune cookie - it simply said "Bobbe, I love you, and only you, will you marry me?" I was very ready to say 'Yes!'</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Shortly after, we both came down with Covid and were very sick. A planned foot surgery was delayed until February. We both made it back to good health and married in June. The end of July my husband had a hip replacement. He made a fast recovery and in October we spent over two weeks back east with lots of friends and relatives. I am now officially a part of the family. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">I think we all wonder from time to time what our destiny will be. I'm a very positive person no matter what is going on around me. I think this is true because I know I am a child of God and He will be faithful to help me through the storms of life that come my way. I've written this many times,<span style="background-color: #fcff01;"> 'what we think or how we feel doesn't matter unless it's based on Biblical truth.'</span></span></p><p><b style="font-family: arial; font-size: large; font-style: italic;">As the rain and snow come down from heaven and do not return to it without watering the earth and making it bud and flourish. . .so is my word that goes out from my mouth: it will not return to me </b><b style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><i>empty, but</i></b><b style="font-family: arial; font-size: large; font-style: italic;"> will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which it was sent."</b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">When I come to understand what God has said, I feel very safe and secure and it isn't easy to rob me of my joy. God has a plan for my life; the plan has existed since the creation of the world - Ephesians 1:4-5 - He choose us before the world to be holy and blameless in His sight and he predestined us to be adopted as sons through Jesus Christ for His pleasure and good will. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">God loved me before I was born! I can understand that, I loved all my children before they were born and before I ever saw them. Some of us have trouble understanding God's sovereignty but once you accept this critical part of Biblical doctrine, it brings peace knowing the God who created you has also designed your life. I know life often appears to be far from perfect but know this, God is perfect and He knows what He is doing.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Many of us around the world are busy are busy putting our Christmas decorations away until next year. It's a comfort to know that the child born in Bethlehem over 2,000 years ago was, the child prophesied to come in Isaiah 7:14, was called Immanuel which means "God with us" - Matthew 1:23 Jesus was not just a prophet, He is God in the flesh. Jesus said in John 10:30 "the Father and I are one". He also said that if you have seen Him, you've seen the Father. Jesus said He is the way, the truth and the light and anyone who believes in him, will never walk in darkness.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">In order to understand spiritual things you need to be born of the Spirit - flesh gives birth to flesh but the Spirit gives birth to Spirit. This is why Jesus said we must be "born again." The gospel of John is a wonderful study. I know from the beginning of creation that Jesus was going to be my destiny. I was going to believe that He is my Lord and Savior, I would teach His Word, I would write about Him, and most important, love Him. Ultinately, I will live in heaven with Him for all eternity. I won't be there because I'm a good and perfect human being, I'll be there because Jesus has paid for all my sins and now God looks at me as perfect as His Son.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">I wish you a New Year that will grow you, comfort you, and bless you in more ways than you ever thought possible. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Jude 24. . . "To him who is able to keep you from falling and to present you before his glorious presence without fault and with great joy. . ."</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><i>Thank you Jesus for being my destiny.</i></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p><br /></p>BOBBE'S BIBLE BLOGhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11819390443575125692noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5561964901415677667.post-25748036380382998272020-12-23T13:22:00.001-08:002020-12-23T13:22:59.845-08:00A THRILL OF HOPE<p><span style="font-family: times; font-size: large;">Merry Christmas to all my unseen friends. We, who believe the Messiah came to rescue us will live eternally with God in heaven. This is our hope, and it's thrilling!</span></p><p><span style="font-family: times; font-size: large;">Home seems where we ought to be this time of year, but I must confess it has been a desire of mine to travel through the world visiting other countries during the Christmas season. That would be an amazing experience to realize that I share my faith with others from all over the world. Believers are bonded together, we are a family because of God's love for us. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: times; font-size: large;">As we all have learned these past few months, God has made us resilient, and we can adapt during difficult times. That's good to know, don't you think? There will always be some drama and chaos to deal with; if not Covid 19, something else. Thanks be to God, and President Trump, that we now have an effective vaccine for this persistent virus. We hope this will be distributed all over the world and we will be rid of what has caused pain. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: times; font-size: large;">I received a Christmas card recently that said, <i>"The thrill of hope, the weary world rejoices." </i>These words are from my favorite Christmas hymn - 'O Holy Night'.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: times; font-size: large;">"<i>Long lay the world in sin and error pining till He appeared and the soul felt its worth". </i></span></p><p><span style="font-family: times; font-size: large;">This verse says to me that only when God appears in our life can our soul feel its worth. If we don't value ourselves and don't feel worthy as a person, we're headed down the wrong road and surely trouble will come - you'll be depressed, maybe eat or drink too much, breakdown in relationships - all bad stuff. It's easy to go astray in this world but the truth is, that when we follow Jesus, we'll always wind up in the right place. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: times; font-size: large;"><i>"Led by the light of Faith. . .by His cradle we stand. . .The King of Kings lay thus in lowly manager; in all our trials born to be our friend."</i></span></p><p><span style="font-family: times; font-size: large;">Jesus - born to be our friend. When we grasp this truth, we will have the 'thrill of hope'. The birth of Jesus is spoken of many times in the Old Testament. The prophets knew He was coming and foretold the event.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: times; font-size: large;"><b><i>"For unto us a child is given,. . .And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace." Isaiah 9:6-7</i></b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: times; font-size: large;">These verses refer to Jesus. Micah 5:2 tells us that Jesus will be born in Bethlehem. The words were written over 500 years before the birth of Christ.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: times; font-size: large;"><i>"But you Bethlehem . . .out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel whose origins are from of old, from ancient times."</i></span></p><p><span style="font-family: times; font-size: large;">Micah seemed to understand that God had planned to send a Savior before time began. Micah knew Jesus would come for him. Do you know that Jesus will come for you? God never rejects anyone, never turns anyone away who comes to the Savior, asks to be forgiven and accepts Jesus as their personal Lord and Savior. Next Christmas you may not be living, so do it now and have the peace and the thrill of hope that comes from knowing you are a child of God. For those who already have a relationship with the Lord - this Christmas may you see and know anew how great His love is toward you.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: times; font-size: large;">My oldest son Kraig passed away in September. His father, my late husband, has been gone for five years now - 12/20/15. The first thing that came to my mind when told of his death was there would be a joyous reunion between father and son in heaven - I have no doubt of that, and this brings me great peace.</span></p><p><i style="font-family: times; font-size: x-large;">Lord, thank you for sustaining me, thank you for being my 'everything'. </i></p><p><span style="font-family: times; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: times; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></p>BOBBE'S BIBLE BLOGhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11819390443575125692noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5561964901415677667.post-57281063214776937642020-11-25T16:19:00.003-08:002020-11-25T16:19:33.159-08:00HOW MANY MASKS DO YOU HAVE?<p><span style="font-size: large;">I have many masks, all colors, some plain, some printed, all constrict my breathing and fog up my glasses. My friends and I are planning a bonfire party and asking everyone to bring their masks, we'll burn them and they will be gone!</span> <span style="font-size: large;">Of course we'll wait until the vaccine is officially out and everyone has been innoculated. We don't want Covid to stay around, so we try to follow the rules.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">This is a bit like our sinful nature - if we don't confront it and smash it dead, you can be sure it will reappear in our lives. There is only one way to remove our sin. God didn't send us a vaccine, He sent us Jesus. We need to accept Jesus who died to pay the penalty for our sin so we can be "holy and blameless" in God's eyes.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><i><b>Jude 24 - 25 "To him who is able to keep you from falling and to present you before his glorious presence without fault and with great joy--to the only God our Savior be glory, majesty, power and authority, through Jesus Christ our Lord, before all ages, now and forevermore!"</b></i></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">These are such powerful verses. Notice that we don't keep ourselves from falling (failing) 'him' refers to Jesus. Because we've been reconciled to God through Christ, God our heavenly Father sees us as perfect. He sees his son Jesus in us, not our flesh that continues to want to sin. We are no longer under a law of behavior - Jesus fulfilled the law so now we live according to God's grace. We don't keep the law to be a Christian, we keep the law to our best ability because we <i>are a Christian. </i>We have the Holy Spirit living in us and this is where we get our strength to resist a sinful life. </span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b><i>Romans 8: "...the Spirit helps us in our weakness". vs.29 "For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the likeness of his Son..."</i></b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Amazing, isn't it? God gave us his Holy Spirit to help us in our weakness and He has predestined us to be like Jesus! From my very practical experience of living as a believer for so many years, I know this will not completely take place until we are in heaven with the Lord. But, in God's eyes it has already happened. Amen!</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">The more we see ourselves through God's perspective, the easier it will be to 'behave'. When we lift each up instead of being critical and mean-spirited, we are encouraging others to 'walk in the Spirit' and be who we are - a child of God; nothing can be better than that. </span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Our American holiday of Thanksgiving won't be the same this year due to the Covid pandemic. This is a world-wide problem so you all are suffering the restrictions. We do the best we can and praise the Lord for allowing us to find a vaccine. The U.S. will be sending it all over the world as I understand. In spite of our problems this year, we can find something to be grateful for - first on my list is being loved by God. I can handle anything if I remember that. Many blessings to all of you readers.💗😇</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><i>Thank you Lord for sending many requests my way to continue writing my blog. I will be faithful in doing that.</i></span></p>BOBBE'S BIBLE BLOGhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11819390443575125692noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5561964901415677667.post-52783067965251934012020-07-30T17:30:00.007-07:002020-07-30T18:02:45.922-07:00WHO DO YOU TRUST?<br />
<span style="font-family: times; font-size: x-large;">I have not abandoned my blog, but I see I haven't posted since May. My old computer couldn't keep up any more, so bought a new one. I've had some difficulty with it. . .what is it they say about not being able to teach old dogs' new tricks? More and more I see myself avoiding something I don't trust to work. And I don't trust this new computer to get something done without a lot of frustration on my part. On the other hand, I'm beginning to feel that gentle nudge from the Lord to share what I'm learning from Him.</span><div><span style="font-family: times; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></div><div><div><span style="font-family: times; font-size: x-large;">Some will say, "I'm pretty smart, I trust myself". Is that wise? It's good to be well-informed but in the end, we need to look to the Lord because He is totally trustworthy, and His Word, the Bible, is also trustworthy and full of wisdom. We can always look to the Psalms and Proverbs as a good way to absorb the wisdom of God.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: times; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: times; font-size: x-large;"><i>"He who trusts in himself is a fool but he who walks in wisdom is kept safe." Proverbs 28:26.</i></span></div><div><span style="font-family: times; font-size: x-large;"><i><br /></i></span></div><div><span style="font-family: times; font-size: x-large;">This wisdom we walk in is not worldly wisdom, it's spiritual wisdom that God graciously bestows on us.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: times; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: times; font-size: x-large;"><i>"Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see." Hebrews 11:1</i></span></div><div><span style="font-family: times; font-size: x-large;"><i><br /></i></span></div><div><span style="font-family: times; font-size: x-large;">We all discover it's very difficult to to be 'sure' of something we can't see, so we learn to trust. When our trust is placed in God, and we know He is firmly in control, we can have peace. As hard as we try, there really isn't any lasting peace outside of the Lord.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: times; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: times; font-size: x-large;">Psalm 20:7 - </span></div><div><span style="font-family: times; font-size: x-large;"><i><br /></i></span></div><div><span style="font-family: times; font-size: x-large;"><i>Psalm 56:4 - "In God whose word I praise, In God I trust; I will not be afraid. What can mortal man do to me?</i></span></div><div><span style="font-family: times; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: times; font-size: x-large;">God sent us Jesus, God in the flesh, to be our Savior and forgiver of sins. Jesus said if we believe in Him we will have eternal life - John 5:24. This passage also says. . ."</span></div><div><span style="font-family: times; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: times; font-size: x-large;">So, isn't it great that we can have a personal relationship with the only One in the whole universe who is totally trustworthy? I think so! The more you read and study God's Word the more you'll know Him. These are hard times for our country. Not just hard, but very frightening. I feel so bad for those who don't know Who to trust.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: times; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: times; font-size: x-large;">My previous blog 'NEW YORK BLESSING' is the first time I've posted a video. I thought it was amazing. I cried through the whole thing. I love NY city in all its messiness and chaos. Seeing this video with people in every kind of church, representing every race and country praising God, Lord over all is just so special and awesome. Only God can unite people like this, share it, it might help dispel the fear, anger and hate we see around us. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: times; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span><div><span style="font-family: times; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span><div><i style="font-family: times; font-size: x-large;">Thank you Lord for gathering your people all over the world to sing praises to you, to encourage others to have faith and to honor You. I know You have a reason for everything you do. </i></div><div><br /></div></div></div></div>BOBBE'S BIBLE BLOGhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11819390443575125692noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5561964901415677667.post-37646866469467724932020-07-28T14:52:00.002-07:002020-07-30T17:33:20.967-07:00THE NEW YORK BLESSING : 100 CHURCHES SINGING A BLESSING OVER NEW YORK CITY<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="270" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/0JZlqkAanhA" width="480"></iframe>BOBBE'S BIBLE BLOGhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11819390443575125692noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5561964901415677667.post-73383923741175869912020-05-06T20:58:00.002-07:002020-07-27T13:17:46.864-07:00FAITH OR FEAR?<span style="font-family: times, "times new roman", serif; font-size: large;">When we look back through many years of history, we see that when people have become fearful, they also become easier to control. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: times, "times new roman", serif; font-size: large;">There is a sense in which fear can be a good thing, it can protect us from danger. Most of the time fear simply prevents us from living a full life. Maybe you are afraid to fly, the plane might crash, yes it might. You might be afraid to get on a ship, it might sink, yes it could. Some will live a lonely life without the blessings that come with a good relationship. They are afraid to love - what if the relationship doesn't develop the way you thought it would, or what if your love isn't returned? Painful, yes for sure, but I think it is true "It is better to have loved and lost than not have loved at all." This is a famous quote from the English 19th century poet, Alfred Tennyson. Poets usually get it right, and the Bible is full of poetry. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: times, "times new roman", serif; font-size: large;"><b>Life itself is a risk, so go for it, live fully and completely knowing that the God who loves you has already weighed the risks and planned the rewards. </b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: times, "times new roman", serif; font-size: large;">Here's the thing - those of us who are believers in Jesus, the Word of God, don't place our faith in the pilot of an airplane, or the captain of a ship, or the perfect love relationship, our faith is in the Lord alone. We experience making a choice - fear or faith. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: times, "times new roman", serif; font-size: large;">Trust and faith are much alike - when we have faith in someone or something, we also can say that we are trusting. Those who walk in fear rather than in faith, have limited their joy in life. Remember Jesus died on the cross for the <i>joy set before him - Hebrews 2:12</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: times, "times new roman", serif; font-size: large;"><b style="font-style: italic;">"Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith. . .</b>Hebrews 12:2</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: times, "times new roman", serif; font-size: large;">We can't snap our fingers and suddenly have faith, faith comes from God. Ephesians 2:8 says that faith is a gift, a gift bestowed willingly on those who love Him. Stand firm in the Word of God, believe what it says. Have faith that the Lord will alert you to danger and trust Him to provide pleasure in life. If you have children, don't you want them to walk in faith and have pleasure in life? This is what your heavenly Father wants for you. You are a child of God.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: times, "times new roman", serif; font-size: large;">In a very practical sense, think of driving down the freeway at 75 mph - you are taking a risk that the other drivers on the road are paying attention to traffic, have the skill to handle a car or truck, are not drunk or on drugs, not pre-occupied with disciplining children or talking on the phone, etc. And most of us do it, we take this risk because we need to go someplace. My faith is in God alone, I can't control the other drivers.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: times, "times new roman", serif; font-size: large;"><i style="font-weight: bold;">"We live by faith, not by sight". </i>2 Corinthians 5:7</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: times, "times new roman", serif; font-size: large;"><i style="font-weight: bold;">"And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and he rewards those who earnestly seek him." </i> Hebrews 11:6</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: times, "times new roman", serif; font-size: large;">Hebrews, chapter 11 gives us a history of faith through the characters of the Old Testament starting with verse 3 - </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: times, "times new roman", serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>By faith we understand that the universe was formed by God's command so what is seen was not made out of what was visible."</i></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: times, "times new roman", serif; font-size: large;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span>
<span style="font-family: times, "times new roman", serif; font-size: large;">The list of those who walked in faith begins with Abel and his brother Cain and ends with Moses. Also mentioned our heroes - Samson, David, Samuel and the prophets who by faith conquered kingdoms, administered justice and gained what was promised.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: times, "times new roman", serif; font-size: large;">Covid 19 has been a lethal and frightening virus. Statistics show that in the United States, about 98% of those who get the virus recover from it when they don't have other health challenges. So many have lost their jobs and businesses, our economy is 'rocky'. But remember where there is fear, the powers-to-be can impose control, sometimes not for the higher good. We are a free country and our Constitution restricts government power. I encourage you, hang onto your freedom while being cautious and considerate of others. <b>We are "one nation under God" and by faith in Him, we will survive.</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: times, "times new roman", serif; font-size: large;"><i>Thank you Lord that your hand is always upon us, we trust in you and cherish our gift of faith.</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: times, "times new roman", serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>BOBBE'S BIBLE BLOGhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11819390443575125692noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5561964901415677667.post-82475852715368391702020-04-13T20:05:00.000-07:002020-05-06T16:07:52.374-07:00HAPPY RESURRECTION SUNDAY<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">On Good Friday we mourned the death of Jesus Christ on the cross. Sunday morning, we cleebrated His resurrection. I wrote this poem a few years ago using, not my words, but words from Scripture.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">REDEEMED</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">John 1, Matthew 27, Isiah 52:14, Psalms 22</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">In the beginning was the Word,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">and the Word was with God, </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">and the Word was God.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">He was with God in the beginning.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Through Him all things were made; </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">without Him nothing was made</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">that has been made.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">He became flesh and lived among us.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">In Him was life, and that life was</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">the light of men.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">The light shines in darkness,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">but the darkness has not understood it.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">At the appointed time in history, </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">foretold by prolphets of old,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">a bloodied and beaten body,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">marred beyond human likeness,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">was nailed to the cross.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">The mid-day sun was replaced by </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">darkness over all the land.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">He was heard to cry out;</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">"My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Then, He gave up His spirit.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">At that very moment the curtain of the temple</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">was torn in two top to bottom.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">The law had been fulfilled.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Now we have free access</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">to God the Father</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">through the living Word, Jesus Christ.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">The earth shook that day, the rocks split,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">tombs broke open and</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">bodies were raised to life.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Those present exclaimed, "Surely,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">this is the Son of God."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">It is finished</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">I've been redeemed.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">To God be the glory!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Let's take a closer look at the Biblical story of Jesus. The very first stanza tells us that from the beginning - there was Jesus. Remember how Genesis describes creation? Many times we see this phrase. . .</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">"and God said". God called our world into being with those words; Jesus is the WORD and God spoke Him into being from the very very beginning. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Second stanza we see Jesus isn't only our Savior, He also is our creator. John 1:14 - "He became flesh and lived among us." This refers to His birth in Bethlehem. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">The fourth stanza talks about prophesey - "At the appointed time in history foretold by prophets of old..." Jesus was on a mission to save those who were 'lost'. He was nailed to a cross in order to pay the penalty of sin for all who would come to believe in him. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">In the fifth stanza we see it became very dark in all the land, and Jesus, being fully human and fully divine gave in to His humanity and cried out in pain asking the question, "why have you forsaken me?" As we stumble through this world and suffer through our human condition, we too wonder sometimes if God has forsaken us. Then it says that He gave up His spirit: He willingly paid the price for our sin. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">In the sixth stanza the Bible says the temple curtain was torn in two from top to bottom. That was no small thing! It was terribly heavy, so heavy that it took about thirty men to move it - made of a tightly woven material and covered what was called by the Jews - 'The Holy of Holiest'. Only the head priest could go into this room. They tied a rope around his ankle in case he should faint, or die, they could pull him out without entering this very holy place. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">The law had been fulfilled by the death (and soon to be resurrection) so now we had free access to God the Father through the living Word, Jesus. We can go directly to God, the barrier (curtain) has been torn down between God and the un-Godly, us!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Finally, in the seventh stanza, a huge earthquake is described, some were raised to life (we don't know who - at least I don't) and they knew. . ."Surely this is the Son of God!"</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">John records in verse 30 that Jesus said, "It is finished." So let's all live like it is finished - Jesus came, died, rose again (I Cor. 15) so we would be accepted as a child of God. Our fate has been sealed, we are bound for heaven and no one can take that away from us. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>"Now it is God who makes us stand firm in Christ. He anointed us, set his seal of ownership on us, and put his S</i></b></span><b style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: x-large;"><i>pirit in our hearts as a deposit, guaranteeing what is to come." 2 Cor. 1:21</i></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">So what? Well, this is 'so what' - we are free to take on the day, take on our life with all it's struggles and disappointemnts knowing God loves us, has prepared a plan for our lives and we will live in eternity with Him someday - signed sealed and delivered. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><i>Thank you Lord for doing all this for us, not because we deserve it, but by Your love and grace..</i></span>BOBBE'S BIBLE BLOGhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11819390443575125692noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5561964901415677667.post-25614523324978258022020-04-09T20:42:00.000-07:002020-04-13T15:08:16.059-07:00STRESSED? OPEN YOUR BIBLE<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><i><b>"Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life? Since you can't do this very little thing, why do you worry about the rest?" Luke 12: 25 - 26</b></i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">These are words Jesus spoke to his disciples. Yes, even the disciples who walked with Jesus became upset and felt stress and worry. No wonder we do! At present, the Corona virus, Covid 19, has caused much concern throughout the world. I don't know about other countries, but here in the United States, the press, our ever present media, likes to keep attention on stressful situations. Their reporting isn't always truthful, sometimes out of ignorance, sometimes because of a political or personal agenda. Sometimes it's best to hit the 'off' button. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">One thing we know for sure, we will all die someday. When you look at a grave stone you will see a birth date and a death date; the space between is our life. In the book of Job, oldest book of the Bible, we read...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>"Man born of women is of few days and full of trouble. He springs up like a flower and withers away; like a fleeting shadow, he does not endure. Job 14: 1 - 2</i></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Job also writes in 12:10, speaking of God, <b><i>"In his hand is the life of every creature and the breath of all mankind."</i></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>"Man's days </i></b></span><b style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: x-large;"><i>are determined; you</i></b><b style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: x-large;"><i> (the Lord) have decreed the number of his months and set limits he cannot exceed." </i></b><br />
<b style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: x-large;"><i>Job 14:5 </i></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Job clearly states that God has set our boundaries. Knowing this does not mean that we live irresponsible, reckless lives. The days we have here on earth are much better if we stay healthy and make good choices.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">In the book of Proverbs we see that Solomon, son of David, king of Israel wrote...<b><i>"The lot is cast into the lap, but its every decision is from the Lord." Proverbs 16:33</i></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">I take comfort in this verse and am so glad that God is constantly directing my decisions.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Back to Luke - the Old Testament and the New Testament complement each other. Jesus wants to have his disciples understand that worry for our well-being isn't productive, it just makes us unhappy. He points to the fact that the Ravens do not sow or reap, they have no storeroom or barn; yet the Lord feeds them. Aren't we more valuable to God than the birds? Jesus also points out the lilies of the field and not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. If God feeds the birds and clothes the lilies how much more will He take care of us Jesus asks. "<i style="font-weight: bold;">Oh you of little faith" </i>Jesus says, don't behave like the pagans (unbelievers) for your Father knows what you need. And then he says this...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>"But seek his kingdom first..." Luke 12:31</i></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Once we've been born into the family of God and received the Holy Spirit, our fear and worry should vanish. We now have the Lord of the universe looking after us. The Lord never said that there wouldn't be pain in our lives here on earth, but He did say that no matter how it looks to us, He is working all things together for good - Romans 8:28. Cling to this truth, life will be easier. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Soon we Christians will focus on the death and resurrection of Jesus. We call it Easter. Most of us won't have a church service to attend, unless it's on-line, and we probably won't be gathering with many people, but we do have the Bible, God's Word. You may want to read the Easter story in the gospels, each author records it a bit differently. I hope this will make you feel loved and at peace knowing what Jesus did for you on the cross is the essence of Christianity. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><i>Thank you Father for your son Jesus Christ who paid the price for our sins and by believing in Him, we never need to fear death.</i> </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>BOBBE'S BIBLE BLOGhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11819390443575125692noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5561964901415677667.post-24265206253038948022020-03-16T20:18:00.000-07:002020-03-16T20:18:35.082-07:00HOW TO SURVIVE A CRISIS<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Life isn't always a bowl of cherries, in fact, it seldom is. We need to learn to cope with change, because there will always be change, and something to fear. I have great peace in the midst of most anything - maybe not initially, but ultimately, because I trust God's Word to be true.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><i>Psalms 16:8 "I have set the Lord always before me. Because he is at my right hand, I will not be shaken."</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Quite simply, that is how to survive a crisis. When you understand that God is always looking after his people, you can relax.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">I know many are very concerned about the pandemic we are facing. The </span><i style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: x-large;">corona virus</i><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"> has attacked many countries with a vengeance. I was shopping for a St. Patrick's Day dinner this morning, and was amazed how many bare shelves I found in the store. A woman shopper said to me, "Can you believe this, not one head of cabbage and not one onion in this store!" Those who hoard items make it hard on everyone. How selfish they are, but then I must remember that not everyone is a Christian and believes that the Lord will supply their needs - God does not say He will supply all our 'wants', but He will take care of what we need. Most often, we think we need a lot more than we really do.</span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"> I take great comfort in God's Word; it keeps my boat from rocking during the storms of life. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><i>Matthew 6:8 ". . .your father knows what you need before you ask him."</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">I think most of us go through life thinking that others, even those we know love us, do not <i>really </i>understand our needs, so isn't it wonderful to know that the Lord does?</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Philippians 4:19 - Paul was writing to those who lived in Philippi -</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><i>"And my God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus."</i> </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">When you have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior you can declare as King David did in Psalms 23,</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>"The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want."</i></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">There is a reason this is one of the most beloved psalms, read it often, the whole psalm, you will be blessed. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Yes, scary things are happening in our world today. There have always been scary things happening down through the ages. So, we stay calm, trust God's love and carry on. We can then look at a beautiful bowl of cherries (or our life) and say, 'yes, this is good.'</span><br />
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BOBBE'S BIBLE BLOGhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11819390443575125692noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5561964901415677667.post-63735761480745243792020-01-26T17:56:00.000-08:002020-01-28T11:27:36.158-08:00A BETTER MARRIAGE<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">I wonder over the years how many words of advice have been written about the topic of <i>marriage. </i>We don't all fall in love, get married and live happily ever after. In fact, in the USA, about 50% of marriages fail. This is so sad, even sadder when the marriage has produced children, as the majority have. A child's security blanket is ripped from them when this happens. Mom and dad are their security - they aren't as concerned about anything else in their lives as much as knowing their parents love one another and will love and protect them; you are their prime security. Therefore, it is important to nourish your marriage.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">This is an interesting thought. . .what if God meant marriage to make you <i>holy, </i>rather than <i>happy? </i>Knowing what a challenge it would be, what if God chose marriage as a means to draw you closer to Him? Consistently loving our mate requires a touch of the Holy Spirit and God's hand on us showing the '<i>how' </i>of it. Keep in mind that when the Bible exhorts us to do something the Lord is with us. It doesn't feel like it sometimes, but He never leaves on on our own. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Soon it will be Valentines Day and we will be inundated by thoughts of love. It's not true of all cultures, some have arranged marriages, but most of us marry because of love. How does the Bible define love?</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>"Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.</i></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>Love never fails." </i>I Corinthians 13: 4 -8</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">This passage of Scripture isn't just referring to married love, but all love. You can see how impossible the standard of God is when we attempt to perform without His help and guidance. Who can consistently behave in this Godly way of loving? No one!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">I am specifically writing about married love so we need to take a look about how God has laid that out for our edification. We have certain expectations when we marry. We are often disappointed. That person we married isn't who we thought he/she would be. We find that we don't always agree on important issues, we must compromise so we'll be both be satisfied. The problem is, neither of you are completely satisfied - one or the other feels they are giving the most; your love affair begins to unravel. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">God caused Adam to "fall asleep" then took one of his ribs and made a women for him. God called this woman a "suitable helper" for Adam and said they would become "one flesh". Genesis 2: 20-24. Married couples don't often feel like one flesh. And so it was with the first man and woman, trouble was on the horizon.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Many women, Christian or not, don't like the idea of 'submitting' to their husbands. After all, we are equals! I believe the Scripture paints a picture of equality. We need to remember that Jesus is portrayed as the 'Bridegroom', and we, the believers, as the 'Bride'.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">I find this to be an interesting analogy, don't you? The Bridegroom, the one who loves us, protects us, shelters us, and provides for us, is the head of the family and takes responsibility for his bride. Think about that, then picture a bride, dependent on the one who loves, protects, shelters and takes responsibility for her. . .and would give his life for her.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Ephesians 5: 22-23 describes a marital relationship as well as the relationship between Christ and the Church (body of believers). We believers are to submit to Christ, and we wives are told to submit to our husbands. Impossible we women say! But look at what the Lord tells the husband, <b><i>"</i></b><i style="font-weight: bold;">love your wives just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her to make her holy. . .(set apart - special). </i>This passage goes on to say, <i style="font-weight: bold;">"He who loves his wife loves himself." </i>I'm sure this is a new thought for many, probably most, men.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Now ladies, I've got to ask...if your husband loved you as much as Christ loved the believers and died for them...wouldn't it be easy to submit? Yes, I think so. Husbands are told to <b>love </b>their wives, and wives are told to <b>respect </b>their husbands. When a man senses respect from his wife he steps up and performs like a man. When a wife experiences this kind of 'godly' love, the natural result is a deep respect for her man. Wouldn't you call this equality?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">You give love, you get respect. You respect, you get love. If one or the other fails, a breakdown of the relationship is sure to come. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">A person who is happy within themselves, and not dependent on another human or 'things' for their happiness, will most likely have a content happy marriage. When a couple look for the other person to provide what they need, they probably will be disappointed. We can't change anyone else (only ourselves) - their habits, personality or inability to give and receive love, but with God's help you can change how you deal with what disturbs your peace and robs you of being 'happy'.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">The Apostle Paul wrote extensively to the Corinthians about marriage. They were a group of new believers who had questions..."now that we accepted Christ as our Savior, how should we live?" They were asking for some guidelines to live by. In I Corinthians 7, in the midst of the instructions and suggestions Paul reminds them, <i style="font-weight: bold;">"God has called us to live in peace." </i>Where does peace come from? Ephesians 2:14 tells us that that <i style="font-weight: bold;">Jesus is our peace. </i>It won't come from the perfect marriage, wonderful children, a great job, money or possessions - <b>peace comes from God alone. </b>Paul takes note that "those who marry will face many troubles in this life." Many have seen this to be true! Paul is simply giving some advice based on his observations - this isn't doctrine. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">So, what is the answer? We can see that God all through history has allowed divorce. Therefore, it must be a part of his plan since no man can thwart His will...Daniel 4:35. He also plans for us to be made whole only through Him...Philippians 4:19, <i style="font-weight: bold;">"God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus." </i>It is God, not our mate who will meet our needs. Let me say it another way, <b style="font-style: italic;">"The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want." </b>Psalm 23. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><i>Thank you Lord that you alone are our peace and will meet our needs. Help us to understand there is a difference from a 'need' and a 'want'. Apply your truth to our lives daily. </i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>BOBBE'S BIBLE BLOGhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11819390443575125692noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5561964901415677667.post-81317331021060803542020-01-01T15:15:00.000-08:002020-01-26T18:00:51.710-08:00SHED THE SHAME IN THE NEW YEAR<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">From a poem I wrote several years ago. . .</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">"<i>The year floats away</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><i>swallowed up by persistent</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><i>tides that will return to</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><i>scatter memories along the shore,</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><i>the sweet and the bittersweet. "</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">I hope you are filled with great expectations in the new year. It's always exciting for me to watch what God is doing in my life and in the <span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">lives of those I love. I've learned that with great joy, great sorrow may also come. Good times, bad times - I'm confident that God is always in charge. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">One thing we must leave behind in the old year is our shame. We can dump old shame then pick up new shame. It seems to be in our DNA and causes great trouble in our life. We all deal with shame at one time or another. Outside of Christ shame appears to be a part of our humanity. Romans 3:11 tells us we are not perfect, there is no one who is 'righteous', no, not one. From my pastor, "God removes our shame and replaces it with honor. <b>Shame never has the last word, the King does."</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Shame begins with something we did (or are doing) or was forced on us that we judge to be wrong or bad. This leads to feelings of guilt, our guilt becomes our shame. I recently heard a good message about this topic and was immediately reminded what a terrible hold shame can have on our lives. We instinctively hate this feeling so often try and get rid of the guilt and shame by blaming someone else. This only makes it worse. Not being able to take responsibility for our behavior and actions is not a good coping skill. Looking for a <i>scapegoat </i>is a Biblical concept.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Leviticus 16 describes how the Jews were to 'atone' for their sins. In vs. 20, it describes how the Lord told Aaron, brother of Moses, how he should take a live goat, put his hands on the goat's head and confess the "wickedness and rebellion of the Israelites - all their sins - and put them on the goat's head ." This was a picture of transferring the sin to the poor little goat who was then released into the desert. This is where we get the term 'scapegoat'. The goat carried the shame away. . .'<i>not my fault'. </i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Adam and Eve experienced shame in the Garden of Eden. They did something, ate the fruit of the tree that God had told them to not eat from, so they hid from God - Genesis 3 - got leaves to cover their naked bodies (picture of sin) and Adam declared that it was Eve who made him do it! Not my fault Lord, this woman made me do it! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">The Bible is full of both new and old testament people who were caught up in shame. Think of King David and Bathsheba; David suffered terribly from the shame, but he owned it and asked God to forgive him. . ."blot out all of my iniquities", read Psalm 51 to get a taste of David's agony over what he'd done. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Jesus told his disciple Peter that he would deny him, and that is exactly what Peter did. I am sure Peter felt great shame. Jesus himself experienced shame...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><i><b>Hebrews 12:2 "Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning the <span style="background-color: yellow;">shame</span>, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God."</b></i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Jesus is our scapegoat; he alone is able to carry away our sinful nature and make us presentable to God. He did this on the cross so "...count yourselves dead to sin (and shame) but alive to God in Christ Jesus" - Romans 6:11.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Romans 8:1 "<i style="font-weight: bold;">There is no condemnation for those in Christ Jesus." </i>I often shared this verse with the inmates when I taught Bible studies in my local jail. As they came to believe this, they became different people. I always loved the look of peace on their faces. I also shared these verses. . .</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Psalm 34:5 <b><i>"Those who look to him are radiant; their faces are never covered with shame."</i></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Romans 9:33 <b><i>"...and the one who trusts in him (the believers) will never be put to shame."</i></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">There will always be someone around who will try and lay a 'guilt trip' on you. Our natural response is to fight back, but don't. People who do this are not happy with themselves, they feel shame and don't know how to handle it, so they want to put shame on you - as a believer, you do not have to buy into that. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">At times I would tell one of my five children, "shame on you" because of something they had done. I never felt good about it because I didn't want them to be ashamed. I did want this potent word to help them realize what they did wrong and hopefully change their ways. From time to time I need to tell my naughty little 8 lb dog that he "should be ashamed" of himself - he always seems to feel a little guilty. I'm crazy in love with my little Rudy, he knows that too. Know that Jesus is crazy in love with you and that is why He paid the penalty for our sin and rid us of shame.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Be who you are in God's eyes - a righteous child of His! I pray that your coming year 2020 will be filled with new hope, a closer relationship with Jesus and the knowledge that you don't need to live in shame; Jesus covered it on the cross. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><i>Thank you Lord for the love you have for your children.</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>BOBBE'S BIBLE BLOGhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11819390443575125692noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5561964901415677667.post-10765721038246791212019-12-18T14:22:00.000-08:002020-01-01T12:39:27.205-08:00FOCUS ON WHAT IS IMPORTANT<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: large;">I have a mental list of 'good advice' I've been given over the years. The one I remember during this time of year when it's so easy to get distracted, stressed and maybe even overwhelmed - hit the pause button and <b><i>focus on what is important. </i></b></span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WNsLZZSNiHc/XBa7Q3Vl36I/AAAAAAAAC0Q/OsdCjmqijZouBayTrtLaFADgFQuK1TBBQCPcBGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_1723.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WNsLZZSNiHc/XBa7Q3Vl36I/AAAAAAAAC0Q/OsdCjmqijZouBayTrtLaFADgFQuK1TBBQCPcBGAYYCw/s320/IMG_1723.JPG" width="240" /></a><span style="font-size: large;">People are important, make someone happy. There are many different ways to do that. Probably one of the best ways is to share the story of Jesus. I am always amazed to see neighborhoods light up at this time of year, literally over much of the world, because a baby was born in Bethlehem over 2,000 years ago. Who is that baby? He is the<b> light</b> of the world, the light of your life, the only One who can pierce the darkness. He shows us the <b>way </b>to a content life, full of peace and joy, no matter what circumstances surround us. Jesus also shows us the way to God the Father and eternal life. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Jesus told his disciples, Thomas and Philip, that no one comes to the Father except through him. He said that anyone who has seen him has seen the Father - because Jesus is God, they are one in the same. Have you even wondered what is true? Jesus said he is <b><i>truth.</i></b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">He also said that he is the <i style="font-weight: bold;">life</i> meaning we are spiritually dead until he makes us alive; we call this being born again, John 3:3. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I hope you will take some time to see for yourself in <i>your</i> Bible what the Scripture says.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">John 8:12 - ..."<b>I am the light of the world and whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life."</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">John 14:6 - ...<b>"I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me."</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">John 14: 9 -11 - ...<b>"Anyone who has seen me has seen the Father. The words I say to you are not just my own. Rather it is the Father living in me doing the work. I am in the Father and the Father is in me."</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">ACTS 4:12 - <b><i>"Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to me by which we must be saved."</i> </b></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">This verse in the book of Acts is speaking of that child born so long ago, Jesus Christ who is our Lord and Savior. We cannot have eternal life by doing good works and religious deeds, or by going to church and Bible studies. There have been many religious leaders throughout history but notice it says. . ."no other name", not Buddha not Mohammad, not </span><span style="font-size: large;">Confucius, not Gandhi, not John Smith of the Mormon Church, not the Jehovah Witnesses - nobody, no organization and no good work - <b style="font-style: italic;">JESUS, ONLY JESUS. </b>Our <i><b>focus </b></i>should be on him. The more we focus, the more calm we become. Let Jesus be the Lord of your life, don't even try to take control.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i style="font-weight: bold;">Ephesians 2: 8 - 9 </i>Tells us that we are saved by grace through faith which is not our own, it is a gift of God. God's gift is Jesus. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">As you gather with friends and family over the holy days don't try to convert anyone, just let them see your faith in action - peace, joy and a loving spirit. They may just want that in their life too!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Thank you Lord - you've done it all for us, we just need to reach out and claim you for our own.</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span>BOBBE'S BIBLE BLOGhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11819390443575125692noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5561964901415677667.post-44001951921301286452019-11-27T17:35:00.000-08:002019-11-27T17:49:52.658-08:00NEW THOUGHTS ON BEING GRATEFUL<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">If we're totally honest, most of us will admit that when it comes to celebrating Thanksgiving the first thing that pops into our mind is all the wonderful food that will appear on the table. Latest information - one in every nine people in the world will go to bed hungry tonight. It is estimated that 821 million people worldwide don't have enough food to sustain a healthy active life. We can start there - be grateful if you have enough to eat.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">If you live in the United States, you are governed by the Declaration of Independence which in part states. . .</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><i><b>"We hold these truths to be self-evident : that all men are created equal; that they are endowed by their Creator with certain inalienable rights; that among these are life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness."</b></i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">I am grateful to live in a free country and have the right to express myself. It's upsetting to see those (mostly college students) who fight to suppress those who don't agree with their point of view. I am grateful for the men and women who stand up to them and refuse to be bullied.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">I am grateful for family and good friends - many in this world feel alone, they don't want to, or can't connect with others and feel separated from what they judge to be the good things in life. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Most of all, I am grateful for my heavenly Father. It's so easy to look back at the past year and see all that we judged to be 'bad' in our life rather than what was 'good'. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>"Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus."</i></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Joy usually follows gratitude, "pray continually" means to always be aware that you are a child of God and you need to communicate with Him, keep Jesus as close as your beating heart. It's difficult to have a relationship without communication. This is the hard part "give thanks in all circumstances for this is God's will for you in Jesus Christ", really? How can we do that? Some things are bad and very painful and we can see no good. Things in our personal lives, but also, the struggles and hardships of the world. You won't be able to be grateful or feel joy unless you come to trust God.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">This is how to give thanks in all things - by accepting the truth of Scripture that tells us we have a sovereign God who works all things after his own will - Ephesians 1:11. Furthermore, he works all things for good - Romans 8:28, that is a truth we believe by faith. Nothing is going to happen out of God's will - no matter what our judgement might be. We need to trust our Creator who knows the beginning and the end. We don't know what will happen tomorrow!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Our human dilemma started in the Garden of Eden with Adam and Eve, Genesis 3. God allowed Satan to enter the garden and persuade Eve, who then persuaded Adam, to eat of the only tree in the garden that God told them not to even touch! They had their eyes opened and began to judge. They had never worn clothes, suddenly they were sewing fig leaves together to cover their naked bodies because they judged that to be a bad thing. God knew they would make the choice to eat form the tree and that is why <b>"the Lamb (Jesus) was slain before the creation of the world." Revelation 13:8 - God had prepared a Savior for us from the beginning!</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Therefore, be grateful, be humble, and be trusting of God who will always love us beyond our understanding. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">I wish all of you who celebrate the American holiday of Thanksgiving - and those who don't, a special time with those you love and an overwhelming sense of gratitude and thankfulness for all you are and all the Lord has provided. In God's eyes, you are very special. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><i>Thank you Jesus for being my ever present friend and my Lord and Savior.</i> </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>BOBBE'S BIBLE BLOGhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11819390443575125692noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5561964901415677667.post-78893193733948153362019-11-19T17:44:00.000-08:002019-11-26T16:33:01.925-08:00SEEING OURSELVES AS GOD SEES US<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">As a Christian, I don't let anyone define me but God Himself. He is my Creator and knows the plans He has for my life, Jeremiah 29:11. The Bible tells me that He see me as righteous, worthy of love, forgiven of every sin I've ever committed, in fact in God's eyes I am a saint. So, call me St. Bobbe! I'm not a saint to anyone else, just in my heavenly Father' eyes. During the painful times, I hold onto that. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>"There is no one righteous, not even one. . ." </i>Romans 3:10</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>"But now a righteousness from God, apart from the law, has been made known. . .This righteousness from God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe." </i>Romans 3:22</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">The following short paragraph in quotes is the first blog I wrote. Sometimes it's good to go back to the beginning. I followed this blog with one on 'Bible Basics', then 'Why Study the Bible?' and 'Knowing Truth'. As of this date, I've written a total of 258 blogs. I hope I've never wavered in sharing the truth from the Bible.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">WELCOME TO A STUDY OF THE BIBLE</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Saturday, January 09, 2010</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">"Welcome to the most interesting, enriching and illuminating study of your life - the study of the Bible. The bestselling book of all time can be a bit intimidating, but please relax and enjoy the narrative, people and action that make this the most treasured book ever written. The Bible has permeated the world with wisdom, peace, joy and hope. Don't be left out for lack of knowledge."</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b>~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Before I began studying the Bible I would go to church and listen to what the pastor<b>/</b>minister had to say. There was always a Bible verse or two but mostly it seemed to me that the messages were about living a better life. I did not have a <i>relationship </i>with the Lord at that time and when I got bored in church, I would make a grocery list or write down things I needed to do the following week. It simply wasn't very important or interesting to me because I had not yet experienced a spiritual <i>rebirth. </i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">You may know more about the Bible than you think. Its content has become a part of the culture of many countries throughout the western world. This blog is also read in China, Russia, the Ukraine and some Arab countries.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: yellow; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Here are some basic facts. . .</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b>** The Bible is a collection of sixty-six individual 'books' which are divided into two sections, the Old Testament, thirty-nine books, and the New Testament, twenty-seven books.</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b>** These books were written by people chosen and inspired by God to record His message over a period of 1500 - 1600 years. There are forty different authors from all walks of life and periods of history. No wonder the Bible is so interesting!</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b>**There is a period of four hundred years between the Old and New Testaments. The 'Gospels' the first four books of the NT were actually written for the Jews, as was the OT.</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b>**The Old Testament was written in the Hebrew language and contains books written in various literary styles. You will find a collage of history, biography, prophesy, songs of love and wisdom and beautiful poetry. You may be amazed.</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b>**The New Testament was written in Koine Greek, which was the common language of the day, also the Aramaic language common in Judea. These letters, called epistles were sent to various churches in Greece, Italy and Asia Minor. The first four books, Matthew, Mark, Luke and John tell the story of Jesus, His birth, life on earth, death and most important, His resurrection. </b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b>**The book of Acts is the story of the early church. The new covenant comes in Acts, chapter 2 when the Holy Spirit is revealed to those who believe. </b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b>When you have a working knowledge of the Bible, you are much less apt to be led astray by hearsay or poor teaching. </b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b>**Jesus Christ is the centerpiece of the entire Bible, from Genesis to Revelation.</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">May I suggest that you inter-act with the Bible itself; you will be blessed as God speaks to you through His Living Word.<b> </b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><i>Thank you Lord for your Word that brings knowledge of who You are, wisdom, a peace that surpasses understanding and joy in every circumstance. </i></span><br />
<br />BOBBE'S BIBLE BLOGhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11819390443575125692noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5561964901415677667.post-3179397925669483122019-10-22T13:55:00.000-07:002019-10-22T14:01:08.538-07:00THE FATHER AND HIS CHILDREN<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">We all have an earthly father, I know not everyone is, but I was blessed with a great dad whose love was unconditional. He rejoiced with me and he always hurt when I hurt. The important thing is that he was always there for me. When I read the name <i>Abba </i>in the Bible, I think of him, when I hear the song <i>Abba. </i>I have come to understand that those of us who had a good dad are much more open to having a Heavenly Father. When you've been abandoned, abused or ignored as a child the concept of <i>Abba Father </i>is hard to grasp, the pain is deep. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">I remember a Christian camp counselor tell me about a teenage boy, brought by a friend, who came to his camp one summer. After a few days with him and sensing this young man was hurting he drew him aside and asked if he wanted to share anything. Yes, he did, his words were like a flood bursting through a dam. This boy had been terribly abused by his alcoholic father, physically and emotionally. The counselor simply told this teen boy that he needed a new father. God's provides Himself! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><i style="font-weight: bold;">"For all who are led by the Spirit of God are children of God. So you have not received a spirit of bondage. . .you received God's Spirit when he adopted you as his own children. Now we call him "Abba Father". </i>Romans 8: 14 -15</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">A song written by Jonathan David and Melissa Helser describes who this <i>Abba Father </i>is and what our relationship with him feels like.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><i>"You're more real than </i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><i>The ground I'm standing on</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><i>You're more real than</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><i>The wind in my lungs</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><i>Your thoughts define me</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><i>You're inside me</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><i>You're my reality</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><i>Abba, I belong to you</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><i>Abba, I belong to you</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><i>You're closer than the </i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><i>Skin on my bones</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><i>You're closer than the </i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><i>Song on my tongue</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><i>Abba, I belong to you."</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Galatians 4:6 tells us that because we are a child of God he sent His Holy Spirit - the Spirit of his Son Jesus - into our hearts who prompts us to call out "Abba Father". The word <i>Abba </i>is from the Aramaic language which defines the word 'father' and implies that believers are tethered to God; we are created in the image of God.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Those of us who are parents know what we want for our children. First of all, we want them to have <b>peace</b> because we know that there are many rough spots as we travel the road of this life on earth. We also want them to understand that they can have <b>joy</b> in the midst of any circumstance. We want them to have<b> purpose</b> in their life, something that inspires and makes them feel good, we pray they will have <b>family and friends to love and enjoy. </b>We hope they are <b>content and accepting</b> of the 'less than perfect' things that happen but also <b>open for change and adventure! </b>We want them to have <b>good health </b>and what is so important to happiness - the <b>ability to forgive and be grateful. </b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Most</span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"> important,</span><b style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: x-large;"> </b><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">we want them to <b>have a relationship with their Abba Father. </b>We want the same things for our children as God wants for His children.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">I've walked with my Father for over 46 years now and I've come to know that He is more real than the ground I walk on, my real than the air in my lungs, His thoughts define me, He's inside of me, He</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">is my reality and closer to me than the skin on my bones or the song on my tongue. . .<b>I belong to Abba. I need Him because I can't even come close to being 'perfect'.</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b>Psalm 16:8 <i>"I know the Lord is always with me. I will not be shaken, for he is right beside me.</i></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><i>Thank you Lord for being ABBA, everything we need.When others say and do hurtful things, help us to remember who you are and that we belong to You, only You.</i></span>BOBBE'S BIBLE BLOGhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11819390443575125692noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5561964901415677667.post-88454427068606434342019-09-30T13:24:00.001-07:002019-10-01T16:31:43.844-07:00MY BOOKS - YOU ASKED<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">From time to time I am asked if I've ever written a book, yes, I've published three books. Two are available on Amazon, both as</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">e-books as well hard copies. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">My first book, <i style="font-weight: bold;">How is the Day? A Mission to Africa </i>was written from a journal I kept while living in a 'Rifki' (meaning 'friend' in Swahili) village in Uganda and teaching in a girl's center. I give a day by day account of what it was like to be in this part of Africa and come to know these lovely people. You can also purchase this as an e-book on Amazon.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">My second book, <b><i>Blogging God's Word: Seeing Ourselves Through God's Eyes</i></b> is an introduction to the Bible and how to apply God's truth to our daily life. It is no longer in print, the publisher, CrossBooks, a division of LifeWay closed their publishing division a few years ago. I have a few copies and when time allows I will someday self-publish this book as I own the rights. I haven't checked in a long while, but I don't think there are any left on Amazon. I wrote this book from my blogs so you can go way back in the archives, I've written over 250 blogs now so you'd need to go back to January 2010.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b>* * </b>Seeing ourselves through God's eyes is so critical in knowing who you are in Christ and claiming His promises for you. When we begin to see our self as God sees us, something magical happens!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">My third book is <i style="font-weight: bold;">The God Who Sees Me </i>and is a collection of blogs. We who are Christians understand that each one of us has a <i>personal relationship </i>with the God of the universe - pretty cool I think - He knows us and we know Him. This is also available on Amazon including an e-book which is really inexpensive. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>BOBBE'S BIBLE BLOGhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11819390443575125692noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5561964901415677667.post-80899370838579280812019-09-30T12:17:00.000-07:002019-10-01T10:43:33.380-07:00THE BIG REUNION<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">California High School, graduating class of 1959 recently held their 60th reunion. I was one of the 500 who graduated with this class. We gathered together, about sixty of us, at the lovely Hilton Hotel in downtown Whittier to touch base with old friends and catch up on the past 60 years. This wasn't our first reunion, and many of us have stayed in touch over the years despite the fact that we've moved around the country and out into the world. We rented a party bus on Friday night and went to our school football game.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Many of the friendships go back before high school; some attended elementary school together. Friendships not only formed in a classroom, but in the neighborhoods in which we lived. I have pleasant memories of riding my bike to an area of Whittier (suburb of Los Angeles) where there was a proliferation of trees in ravines that were dripping with oranges that no one picked. Many were scattered on the ground and what do kids do with a temptation like that? We had orange fights of course! I wasn't supposed to ride my bike so far from home. My mother became a bit suspicious and one day asked me when I got home, "Why do you smell like oranges?" I don't remember how I replied to her question.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">One of the families on our street actually built a real bomb shelter in their backyard. After all, this was the 50's and there was a constant threat of a nuclear threat from an Atom bomb tossed our way by Russia. We read the book <i>Hiroshima </i>the story of our attack on Japan which facilitated the end of World War II, and also were shown films of what a nuclear bomb attack would be like. We had 'bomb drills' like fire drills. We got away from the windows as I remember and huddled under our desks. We always wondered what good that would do since radiation would be all around us - even under our desks! But, we were obedient and followed the rules. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Very few of this class of '59, the 'Calhi Condors', got into big trouble. Some passed away early, some melted into the world without a hint of where they'd gone, most lived honest hardworking lives, got married, had children, built businesses, had careers, went to church, welcomed grandchildren, took care of aging parents and saved for retirement. Some had prestigious careers, some ordinary, some made good incomes, others, just average. Some served in the military. We were, and are, good people who did our best with what life handed us, and we love and appreciate our country.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">My take-away from our reunion, <b>we were not the greatest generation, but we are children of the greatest generation. </b> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">We aren't perfect but we are special, as is each generation that comes along, one after another.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Most of us enjoy reunions. I am looking forward to the greatest reunion of all - meeting Jesus, a face to face reunion. He will know me and I will know Him. I was with Him in the beginning. . .</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><i><b>"For he (God) chose us in Him (Jesus) before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight. In love he predestined us to be adopted as his sons through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and will - to the praise of his glorious grace, which he has freely given us in the one he loves." </b></i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><i>Ephesians 1: 4-6</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">This is an awesome truth! God has a group of people He calls His "sheep." Read John 10 and you will understand. These sheep, those who believe, were destined to live eternally with Him, not because of anything we have done, but because of God's grace toward us. We didn't have anything to do with this process - it is because of God's pleasure and will. We were adopted as God's children because of what Jesus died for on the cross - our sinful humanity. He paid for all of our sin, past, present and future. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><i><b>"But when this priest (Jesus) had offered for all time one sacrifice for sins, he sat down at the right hand of God. . .because by one sacrifice he has made perfect forever those who are being made holy." </b>Hebrews 10: 12,14<b> </b></i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">We Christians don't always look 'holy', notice Scripture says "being made holy"; it's a process we experience, <u>but in God's eyes we are already holy.</u> Romans 8:29 assures us we are "being conformed to the image of Christ".</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">In heaven we will be reunited with family and friends who are also a part of God's flock of sheep. We will recognize one another and rejoice together in the presence of God. This is one reunion I don't want to miss. In Matthew 18:10 -14 we see that Jesus will go after each lost sheep. . .<i style="font-weight: bold;">"your Father in heaven is not willing that any of these little ones be lost." </i>For those who believe this is such good news - to know that we are safe and secure and won't miss out on being a part of the coming reunion in heaven.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><i>Thank you Lord for doing this for us - you have been in total control since the beginning of time and we who are the sheep of your pasture rejoice in all you have done for us.</i></span>BOBBE'S BIBLE BLOGhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11819390443575125692noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5561964901415677667.post-19635890436585918732019-09-02T15:54:00.000-07:002019-09-29T17:06:12.952-07:00SURVIVING A HURRICANE<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">In the United States, the first Monday of September we pay tribute to the contributions workers have made to the strength, prosperity and well-being of our country. We call it 'Labor Day'. We depend on our government to give structure to our system of capitalism. We owe our success as a country to our Constitution and forefathers who had the wisdom and tenacity to lead. We are "One nation under God..." and this is more important than anything else. God is our guiding light. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">You may have noticed, He lets us fail as well as succeed. He has put us through many trials and tribulations and yet we are strong. And, above all, we owe those who work hard to become self sufficient, to give as well as receive, and to do the 'heavy lifting' of keeping our country strong and free. We need everyone of you! Your skills, talents, willingness and determination are the backbone of this country. You are the ones who made America great and will keep America great.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">This Labor Day, September 3, 2019, we are a bit consumed with <b>Hurricane</b></span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b> Dorian</b>. This is a huge storm capable of so much damage. It has struck the Bahamas and we don't know where it will go next. I have family in Florida and near the coast of North Carolina - two states that are in danger today. I am reminded of the stories my mother-in-law used to tell about Florida hurricanes. My in-laws retired in 1959 and moved to Ft. Lauderdale. They lived in a small home on one of the many canals and survived several hurricanes. I remember how my mother-in-law, Bertha, described what it felt like when the 'eye' of the storm passed over - suddenly the wind stopped, the rain ceased, the quiet was almost eerie. Everyone relaxed and enjoyed the reprieve, but braced themselves knowing the eye would pass and they would again be battered by the storm. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">I've never been in a hurricane, but I've had storms in my life. Storms come to us in many different ways - illness, loss of a loved one, physical or emotional pain, financial hardship, depression or addiction. I never like these storms, but in retrospect, I am grateful for every one of them because I know in the midst of trouble there is an 'eye', a place of peace and rest, even joy! Peace is not the absence of of chaos in your life - it's the calm of knowing the <i><b>overwhelming ever-lasting love of God.</b></i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">In Mark 4 we read about a time when Jesus was preaching and at the end of day he said to the disciples, "<i>Let us go over to the other side", vs 35. </i>They got in a boat to cross the Sea of Galilee leaving the crowd of people behind. Jesus had fallen asleep when a big storm arose and frightened the disciples. They awoke Jesus. . .</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><i>"He got up, rebuked the wind and said to the waves, <b>Quiet! Be still!" Mark 4:39</b></i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Then Jesus asked his disciples why they were afraid. "<b><i>Do you still have no faith?" </i></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">The disciples at that time had not yet received the Holy Spirit; they didn't completely comprehend who Jesus is. And so it is with us, if we do not know Jesus as Lord and receive the power of the His Spirit in us. . .we have no faith and we are afraid. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">David wrote in Psalms 91 <i style="font-weight: bold;">"He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty". </i>God is always faithful and will always fight for those who belong to him. We may search all over the place to find that elusive '<i style="font-weight: bold;">peace' </i>only to discover that this peace we need in our life is Jesus himself - Ephesians 2: 13-14.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">I recently bought some small packets of Kleenex tissues. I was surprised to see each one had a short encouraging message. . .</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">* Seize this Moment</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">* Summon your Strength</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">* Believe in Yourself</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">* Find your Fearless</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">These are all good, but don't try and do these things on your own, you may get frustrated and feel defeated. Stop looking everywhere and anywhere for the peace and joy you seek in life. Make Jesus the Lord of your life. He can do for us what we can never do for ourselves; ask for the faith to believe. Storms will still come, life won't be perfect but you will always be able to rest in the shadow of the Almighty! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><i>Thank you Lord for helping us get through the hard times. Knowing that You can calm the sea and rebuke the waves gives us hope to go on - just knowing you are the God of overwhelming and everlasting love.</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b> </b></span>BOBBE'S BIBLE BLOGhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11819390443575125692noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5561964901415677667.post-73355047852303387302019-08-02T13:50:00.000-07:002019-08-03T12:31:07.631-07:00WHY WRITE A BLOG?<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Why write a blog? So many people do. If I had to make one succinct statement regarding blogging it would be this. . .</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><i>People blog because they have a passion for something (or in my case, someone)</i> <i>that they want to share.</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">It's really as simple as that! I've always enjoyed writing but I begin to write in earnest with a purpose after becoming part of a creative writing class. When I started to blog I suddenly realized what "www" really meant - w<i>orld wide web</i> - people all over the world can read the words you write. That can be intimidating! Every once in awhile I check my 'stats' and discover that indeed, people all over the world are reading my blog - thousands. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">I am thrilled by this because I write about my first love, Jesus Christ, and want others to know the joy and peace that comes from a relationship with my Lord and Savior. My blog, as some have pointed out, has also become somewhat of a memoir because it's impossible to know and teach Scripture without applying it in a practical way to everyday life. The one life I know about is mine. I don't know about <i>your </i>life, I am convinced we all have a story to share that may help others - doesn't matter what your joy is, re-building old cars, cooking, art, making quilts, parenting skills, and a million other things that make up who we are as people. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">So go for it! I'm going to copy and paste a piece I wrote some time ago on why I blog. Why you blog would be very different, totally <i>you.</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">WHY I BLOG<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">I blog to have a voice, to make a difference, to feed
a passion and to reach out to others on the World Wide Web. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">I blog to have a place to deposit what I’ve learned
and continue to learn.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Blogging brings
peace and joy to my life.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">I blog for the thrill of a new revelation from God’s
Word that will help m</span></span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">e to challenge and inspire others.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">I blog to be honest, vulnerable, and risk criticism.
Words written have more weight than words spoken. They aren’t as easily
misunderstood or forgotten. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Sometimes I am surprised by a profound thought, other
times annoyed by my lack of ability to communicate. I am always aware of the Master
I serve.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">I blog to add clarity to difficult concepts, and to
explore mysteries and miracles that take my breath away. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">I blog because I wonder, because I wonder, I search,
because I search, I discover.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">I blog for excitement, to race and tumble at breakneck
speed toward a spiritual treasure that puts life into perspective. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">I blog for all those who want to know but will not
ask, for family, friends and all who are curious.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">I blog because I want to know <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">me,</i> what I blog is <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">me</i>,
coming from the <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">One</i> who created me.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">I blog because it’s God – directed, and I am in awe
when words drift without effort from my fingertips onto the internet. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">I blog in hopes that a revelation or a new discovery
will bear fruit and ultimately lead someone into a relationship with the Living
Word, Jesus Christ.<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">I blog to introduce, to praise and to give glory to
God.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Bobbe Van Hise<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">8/2/19<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><i></i></span>BOBBE'S BIBLE BLOGhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11819390443575125692noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5561964901415677667.post-49467897402054861712019-07-13T16:24:00.000-07:002019-08-02T12:27:15.828-07:00BIBLICAL TRUTH WILL ENHANCE YOUR LIFE<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mstp4GhrPs4/TCfjs9YnjBI/AAAAAAAAACg/6_XSp_gqARYerAjKcuso9IltRA9NRy5JwCPcBGAYYCw/s1600/June%2B2010%2B-%2BN.C%2B002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mstp4GhrPs4/TCfjs9YnjBI/AAAAAAAAACg/6_XSp_gqARYerAjKcuso9IltRA9NRy5JwCPcBGAYYCw/s320/June%2B2010%2B-%2BN.C%2B002.JPG" width="240" /></a><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Ahh...summer is here and our San Diego beaches are full of vacationers and locals making footprints in the sand. We don't need to get on a plane and go someplace, we can stay right here and take a vacation a day at a time. Amazing how this can revive our spirit and flood our souls with a calm that is something like having a Bible in your hands and reading God's Word - really!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">God gave us His Word to make our life better.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>"Such things were written in the Scriptures long ago to teach us. And the Scriptures give us hope and encouragement as we wait patiently for God's promises to be fulfilled." Romans 10:4</i></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Once you start to study and believe what you are reading, you'll discover all kinds of 'good news'. For instance, maybe you are having a bad day but when you read Scripture you have hope tomorrow will be better.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><i style="font-weight: bold;">"The faithful love of the Lord never ends. His mercies never cease. Great is his faithfulness; his mercies begin afresh each morning. </i>Lamentations 3:22-23</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">We seem to enjoy planning our life, as if we were the one totally in charge. My calendar stays full, yours probably does too. When our plans don't work out we get upset. In your search for peace you may stumble upon some verses in James 4 - </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><i style="font-weight: bold;">"How do you know what your life will be like tomorrow? Your life is like the morning fog - it's here a little while, then it's gone. What you ought to say is, "If the Lord wants us to, we will live and do this or that." </i>James 4: 14 - 15</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">It's rather pretentious of us to think we have all the answers and know just what to do and when - that is not living by faith and this causes stress. We need to set a course for ourselves, but take your hands off the wheel and let God steer you in the direction He has ordained for your life. He will never lead you astray.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Trying to live the perfect Christian life can frustrate us, so don't try. Instead stand in the truth of the Bible which says in God's eyes you are already 'perfect'. And a funny thing, the more perfect you <i>feel, </i>the more perfect you will behave. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>"But our High Priest (Jesus) offered himself to God as a single sacrifice for sins, good for all time. (Hebrews 10:12) For that one offering (dying on the cross) he forever made perfect those who are being made holy. " vs 14</i></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">The process of "being made holy" and perfect is called '<i>sanctification</i>' and is worked out here on earth on a daily basis. However, this work is complete from God's perspective. We can relax and enjoy what the Lord has done for us and know that His Holy Spirit is in us doing the will of God.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">We may worry that we tend to focus more on our problems than on experiencing faith, or that others appear to have faith when we don't. Romans 12:3 tells us that God measures our faith, He treats us as His unique child and provides what <i>we need, </i>not always what we want. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>"The Lord will work out his plans for my life - " Psalm 138:8</i></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">I try, but I also fail, seems we need to go through that - often, so we can understand who really has the power over our life. . .we discover it's not us!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Is there a #1 truth to be learned? Yes, there is and once you know it, all else will fall into place according to God's timing. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b>Jesus is God, "I am he". John 4:26</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Such a simple truth, so hard to hang onto when the world tries to grab Him away and replace peace and joy with stress and fear.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Do you know that as a Christian you never will feel ashamed? </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>"Anyone who trusts in him will never be put to shame." Romans 10:11. </i></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>"Those who look to him are radiant; their faces are never covered with shame." Psalm 34:5</i></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><i style="font-weight: bold;"> </i>I like the word 'radiant'; we'll glow before the Lord and in many ways we'll glow in this world also because God's light is within us and He makes it shine for the world to see. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">So, armed with all these wonderful uplifting verses go have a great summer - soak up the SON as well as the sun.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><i>Thank you Lord for summer fun, for dying a painful death on the cross so we can be perfect before our heavenly Father, radiant as we stand before His glory.</i> </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>BOBBE'S BIBLE BLOGhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11819390443575125692noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5561964901415677667.post-47441488530800498922019-06-10T14:10:00.000-07:002019-07-13T13:51:47.691-07:00YOU CAN HAVE IT ALL<div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">I would like to share a story. I doubt that it's true, made up to illustrate a great truth, one that few of us are willing to believe. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">There once was a man who had become very successful and was extremely wealthy. He and his son enjoyed collecting art and had amassed a fortune in rare and famous paintings. Their home had become an art museum and many came to enjoy it.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Sadly, the son was killed in an accident; his father grieved deeply. When the father passed away he left a trust that stated an auction should be held and the art be sold to highest bidder. The word was passed along, and there was great excitement as the day of auction neared. The room was filled with anxious bidders who wanted a chance to buy these treasures. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Shortly before his death the father had commissioned an unknown artist to paint a portrait of his son. This portrait was the first piece to be auctioned off. There were some moans and groans from those present; they were impatient and wanted to see the 'real' treasures. The bidding started off very slowly. The auctioneer was finally able to get the bid up to $100 and the son's portrait was sold. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Excitement grew as the anticipated art waited to be displayed. Suddenly the auctioneer banged a gavel and declared the auction was closed. A huge uproar ensued. Then the auctioneer explained the terms of the owner's trust. He read, <i style="font-weight: bold;">"The person who buys the portrait of my son will be given the whole collection of art." </i>The buyer got it all! This is a picture of Father God giving His Son Jesus to those who would accept His love and forgiveness. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">The moral of the story is this, <b><i>I</i></b><i style="font-weight: bold;">f you have Jesus, you have everything. </i>If we could comprehend this, what a joy our life would be!<i style="font-weight: bold;"> </i>Everything you will ever need, God will supply. We all have a problem of wanting much more than we need, or not knowing exactly what we need. We humans can't resist trying to fill the void God created in us with <b><i>everything and anything </i>but Jesus. </b>We think if we move to another location, have more money, impressive car, luxury vacations, designer clothes and as you get older, a pain free working body, then we'll be at peace and experience joy in our life. These things do satisfy for a moment, then we wake up one day and realize that we're the same person, still seeking something that is elusive, something we can't even describe. Depression may come.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">My psychologist friends tell me it is at this point that many seek pleasure from drugs and alcohol, review their past and ruminate on who or what caused them pain, or what made them feel insecure and fearful. Now, armed with all this hurtful 'baggage', we're ready to attack! Most often those who've loved and nurtured us the most will be the ones who become the 'villain' in our blinded eyes. You see, <b>this is what Satan does, blinds us to the truth.</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">We have trouble coping in a world that appears to be in Satan's control. But remember this, <b>God is firmly in control, </b>even though Satan is patrolling the earth watching everything that is going on - New Living Translation - Job 2:2. Notice in Job 2:3 the Lord himself points to Job and asks Satan to consider messing with his life - well, not in those words, but what he was saying to Satan was <i>'do what you want to my servant Job and see if he'll turn away from me.'</i><b> </b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">From Ephesians 1 we learn a lot about our heavenly Father and what He has done for us. Paul wrote this letter and starts out by saying he was chosen <b>"</b><b>by the will of God", </b>so have we who believe in Jesus as our Lord and Savior. In verse 4...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>"Even before he made the world, God loved us and chose us in Christ to be holy and without fault in his eyes. vs 5, God decided in advance to adopt us into his own family by bringing us to himself through (his Son) Jesus Christ."</i></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">I love as we keep reading and studying we see how the <b>Word punctuates itself. </b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b>Ephesians 1:11 - Furthermore, because we are united with Christ, we have received an inheritance from God, for he chose us in advance, <i><u>and he makes everything work out according to his plan."</u></i></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">We often don't see the good in what God is doing in or life. He knew we wouldn't or couldn't so this is why we are to walk by faith which is believing in something we hope for, <b>the evidence of things we we cannot see. Hebrews 11:1.</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Just like the person who bought the portrait of the son, we can have it all, because Jesus is our <i>all.</i> There is nothing to fear, our lives, good and bad works, our very souls are firmly in the hands of Jesus who loved us and died for us. Get rid of your 'old self' - the person who always searched for 'happy', and be who you are - a child of God.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>Galatians 2:20 "My old self has been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me."</i></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><i>Thank you Lord for your Holy Word to help us navigate this treacherous world you put us in. On day, we'll understand it all, for now, give us peace, joy and help us to understand how very much you love those you've chosen to be in your eternal Kingdom.</i><i style="font-weight: bold;"> </i></span><br />
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BOBBE'S BIBLE BLOGhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11819390443575125692noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5561964901415677667.post-52173188708637493642019-05-11T12:02:00.000-07:002019-06-08T18:49:34.413-07:00WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN FAITH AND TRUST?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">I recently made a trip to the Phoenix area of Arizona - a four hundred plus drive across the desert to have a good time with good friends. I was staying in Scottsdale which is a very large area and needed to drive every which direction. I have a very poor sense of direction. When on a driving trip with my husband, he would sometime hand me a map so I could 'follow along'. Then he'd look over at me to find I had the map upside down and tell me <i>north</i> is always up!! Really? </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">I am very willing to admit I'm extremely flawed when it comes to getting from point A to point B; I need help. I was never good at reading maps so the iPhone navigation system has been a super big blessing and has allowed me the freedom to travel alone without getting hopelessly lost. But, I sometimes don't trust the information I receive. As I was driving around in AZ I discovered how important it was to trust the system. It seldom failed, if it did, the error was quickly corrected. I found I needed to <i>TRUST</i> if I didn't want to become a nervous wreck! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Definition of the word 'trust' - "The firm belief in the reliability, truth, ability or strength of someone or something."</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">How is this different from 'faith' I wondered. Did I need to have faith in my iPhone directions, or should I just trust it.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">The Biblical definition of the word 'faith' is...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><i style="font-weight: bold;">"Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see." </i>Hebrews 11:1</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">That is amazing that we can believe in something, or someone, without any evidence or proof and still be certain in our belief. Some will say that 'faith' is the substance of hope; however the Bible says if we have faith we can be<b> sure and certain. </b>So where does this kind of faith come from? Again, the Bible has an answer.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>"For it is by grace you have been saved (given eternal life), through faith - and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God."</i></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Ephesians 2:8-9.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">This verse goes on to say that God choose to give us faith as a gift, it is not something we must work for or earn, because He didn't want us to boost about having faith when others may not. Faith was given to me, it simply was a free gift.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">If faith is the substance of hope, it requires no evidence, or proof, for belief or practice. The very nature of faith infers that no tangible evidence exists. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Faith is a gift, trust is a choice. What does the Bible say about trust? </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><i style="font-weight: bold;">"Every word of God is pure; he is a shield unto them that put their trust in him." </i>Proverbs 30:5</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">I like this one in Proverbs 28:26 - <b><i>"He who trusts in himself is a fool, but he who walks in wisdom is kept safe." </i></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Then we may ask, how do we acquire wisdom? </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b style="font-style: italic;">"The fear (reverence) of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom; all who follow his precepts have good understanding." </b>Psalms 111:10</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">The Bible also tells us that our earth was made by his power, and he founded the world by his wisdom, Jeremiah 10:12. Knowing this gives me peace and I don't worry about having to protect our earth from doom - God made it and God will take care of until the day we will have a new heaven and earth. This is where believers will<b style="font-style: italic;"> </b>be with God and Scripture seems to indicate that we'll have a job to do - personally, I don't want a job, the Lord has given me much work in this life. I'd just like to be surrounded with the glory of my God. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Trust and faith seem to be interchangeable, but they are different. I hear people say they are afraid to drive across a desert, or get on a busy freeway driving at brake-neck speeds because they have no trust in other drivers. I consciously make a choice to trust them, but in addition, I have been given the faith to believe that God is sovereign and in control of what happens to me. I believe when the Lord has given us faith, trust follows.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><i>Thank you Lord for your wisdom, protection and love. Thank you for making me feel secure, no matter the circumstances - you are my Rock!</i></span>BOBBE'S BIBLE BLOGhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11819390443575125692noreply@blogger.com