Archives for November 2016

Good morning,

Today is Veteran’s Day. It is a day set aside to remember those who have served their country in the Armed Forces. It is also a time to remember those who have given the ultimate sacrifice in defense of their country. We owe a tremendous debt to these fine Americans.

Today, all around the world, men and women are serving proudly. They are in harm’s way. They need our prayers.

Each of us have our “war stories” to tell. Some of those stories have grieved us deeply and will never be told. We recall the hero’s and the everyday “Joe’s” who faithfully served without complaining or causing a ruckus. We remember that one person who lead by example and caused others to follow their lead. Sadly, we will also remember the battle fields on which our comrades in arms died.

Why do we serve? Many reasons could be mentioned. In the beginning it was to defend family, homes, freedom from and oppressive government, and freedom to worship freely. We then codified these freedoms in our Constitution and Bill of Rights. So we fight to protect these freedoms.

The Armed Forces of today is a volunteer organization. Men and women make a conscience choice to defend their country. Some do several years while others make the Armed Forces their career.

When you come across a “Vet” today say “Thank you for your service.” And if you are one of those “Vets” let me be the first to say “Thank you for your service.” You are special people who love this country called the United States of America.

Tom Stearns, United States Army, Retired

Good morning,

Romans 10 identifies a problem, a solution, and a means by which the solution becomes effectual.

The problem is Israel is ignorant of God’s righteousness. The solution is faith in Jesus Christ. The means is individuals telling others about faith in Jesus Christ.

Today we will look at individuals telling others about faith in Jesus Christ.

Faith in Jesus Christ is the solution for Israel. How does the message get to them? Through individuals who tell them.

The Importance of Personal Messengers of the Gospel (10:14-21)

¹⁴ How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher? ¹⁵ And how shall they preach, except they be sent? as it is written, How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things! ¹⁶ But they have not all obeyed the gospel. For Isaiah saith, Lord, who hath believed our report? ¹⁷ So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.¹⁸ But I say, Have they not heard? Yes verily, their sound went into all the earth, and their words unto the ends of the world.¹⁹ But I say, Did not Israel know? First Moses saith, I will provoke you to jealousy by them that are no people, and by a foolish nation I will anger you.²⁰ But Isaiah is very bold, and saith, I was found of them that sought me not; I was made manifest unto them that asked not after me.²¹ But to Israel he saith, All day long I have stretched forth my hands unto a disobedient and gainsaying people.

The gospel witness comes from an individual who knows God’s word and tells others. The problem comes when the hearer rejects God’s word. This was the case with Israel. They heard and rejected.

Tell someone about Jesus today.

Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001

 

Good morning,

THE ELECTION IS OVER!

God has known the results from before the beginning of time. He has a plan and is in the process of executing that plan. Whether we agree or disagree with the results, God has allowed specific candidates to win to fulfill His specific purpose.

It is not God’s will for us to challenge God’s plan. Romans 13:1-5 explains His plan for authority. “Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God. ² Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation. ³ For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise of the same: ⁴ For he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil. ⁵ Wherefore ye must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake.”

Therefore, I believe there are three things God commands us to do in light of these election results.

First, trust in the Lord. “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.⁶ In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.⁷ Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the Lord, and depart from evil.” (Proverbs 3:5-7)

Second, be anxious for nothing. “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.” (Philippians 4:6 NASB)

Third, pray without ceasing. “Pray without ceasing.” (1 Thessalonians 5:17)

Believers in Christ have nothing to fear. We know the future. However, there are many people this morning who are scared, miserable, and afraid of what the future holds. That was the same situation the nation of Israel was facing.

Paul gives them a solution to their problem and it is the same solution for men and women today. Salvation, by Jesus Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection. First Corinthians 15:3-6 states, “³ For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures;⁴ And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures:⁵ And that he was seen of Cephas, then of the twelve:⁶ After that, he was seen of above five hundred brethren at once; of whom the greater part remain unto this present, but some are fallen asleep.”

Free Salvation for All Who Will Believe on Christ (10:6-13)

⁶ But the righteousness which is of faith speaketh on this wise, Say not in thine heart, Who shall ascend into heaven? (that is, to bring Christ down from above:)⁷ Or, Who shall descend into the deep? (that is, to bring up Christ again from the dead.)⁸ But what saith it? The word is nigh thee, even in thy mouth, and in thy heart: that is, the word of faith, which we preach; ⁹ That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. ¹⁰ For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.¹¹ For the scripture saith, Whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed.¹² For there is no difference between the Jew and the Greek: for the same Lord over all is rich unto all that call upon him.¹³ For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.

The solution is accepting Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord and telling others. The people who fear the future need to trust in Jesus.

Tomorrow we will see how the solution is executed.

Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001

 

 

Good morning,

Romans 10 identifies a problem, a solution, and a means by which the solution becomes effectual.

The problem is Israel’s ignorance of God’s righteousness. The solution is faith in Jesus Christ. The means is individuals telling others about faith in Jesus Christ.

Today we will look at Israel’s ignorance of God’s righteousness.

Israel’s Ignorance of God’s Righteousness (10:1-5)

Brethren, my heart’s desire and prayer to God for Israel is, that they might be saved.² For I bear them record that they have a zeal of God, but not according to knowledge.³ For they being ignorant of God’s righteousness, and going about to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted themselves unto the righteousness of God.⁴ For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to every one that believeth.⁵ For Moses describeth the righteousness which is of the law, That the man which doeth those things shall live by them.

Paul has throughout the Book of Romans showed his concern, love, and compassion for his people Israel. His prayer is for Israel to get saved. However, Israel lives by the Law and not by God’s righteousness. They do not understand that Christ is the end of the Law.

This problem is shared by many people who choose not to follow God. They believe they have a better way. They are also ignorant of God’s plan of salvation.

Tomorrow we will see God’s solution to this problem.

Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001

 

Good morning,

We all have had fathers. Some were kind, loving, and always available while others were brutal, mean, and rarely around.

Our heavenly Father is the standard of what fatherhood should be. Although no earthly father can match God, we can certainly try.

Rest in the fact that if we are believer’s in Christ, God is our Father.

If God is our Father

(James Smith, “The Children’s Privileges!”)

“You are sons of the living God!” Hosea 1:10

To have God for our Father, is the greatest honor conceivable–and it is an infinite source of comfort and joy!

If God is our Father—He will love us with a strong and tender love! He may try us and hide His face from us, to correct us for our follies–but He will still love us. Nothing shall separate His child from His love, or sever the bond which unites us to Himself.

If God is our Father—He will bear with our numerous and painful infirmities. Because we are His children–He will put the best construction upon everything. For, “Like as a Father pities his children, so the Lord pities those who love Him. He knows our frame. He remembers that we are dust.” He will accept our imperfect services, because we are but children. He knows our weakness, ignorance, and failings; and He also knows our desire to please Him. And when we can only desire–He accepts the will for the deed.

If God is our Father—He will provide for and take care of us—making provision for us on earth, while He reserves our portion for Heaven. Will an earthly father leave his child to lack–while he has plenty, and can supply him with the greatest ease? He will not! Neither will our Heavenly Father; but He will supply all our needs according to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus!

If God is our Father—He will also protect us from all evils—spiritual and temporal.
Sin shall not have dominion over us,
Satan shall not overcome us,
the world shall not destroy us
–for God will protect us!
He will keep us by His power, through faith unto salvation.

If God is our Father—He will reveal His mind and will to us for our comfort and salvation. He may hide the mysteries of the kingdom from the wise and prudent–but He will reveal them unto His babes. (Matthew 11:25) He will send the Comforter, even the Spirit of truth, who will guide us into all truth.

If God is our Father—He will give us freedom of access into His presence with confidence–so that we may carry all our sins, sorrows, troubles, and temptations to Him, and lay them at His feet; feeling that we have to do with a Father–one who loves us, pities us, and delights to bless us!

If God is our Father—He will make all things work together for our good.
Good things–such as mercies, blessings, and comforts.
Bad things–such as sickness, poverty, reproach, persecution, bereavements, death.
ALL shall work our good, and issue in our eternal welfare.

If we are children of God—we are heirs of every promise in His Book, and joint-heirs with Jesus Himself! He will give us a Father’s blessing–a blessing worthy of His greatness, majesty, and glory. And He will keep us safe in every danger, and from every foe; so that we shall never perish–but possess and enjoy eternal life.

“‘I will be a Father to you, and you will be My sons and daughters,’ says the Lord Almighty.” 2 Corinthians 6:18

~  ~  ~  ~

We should spend time this week meditating on God our Father. What a blessing we have as a child of God.

Rejoice and be thankful for this.

Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001

Good morning,

This is a two part devotional.

Patience, Faith, and Pressing toward the Mark

Last week we looked at the definition of patience. Patience is the capacity to accept or tolerate delay, trouble, or suffering without getting angry or upset: quiet, steady perseverance; even-tempered care; diligence:.

Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. (Hebrews 11:1) Chicago fans have been patient and hoping for the Cubs to win the World Series.

So Wednesday night history was made. The Chicago Cubs and their fans are celebrating their first World Series win in 108 years. They showed their “steady perseverance, even-tempered care and diligence” in the win.

We as believers in Christ must have the same mindset as the Cubs. “Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, ¹⁴ I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.”

That is our goal.

Romans 9:19-33

Chapter 9 of Romans deals with three misunderstandings of the Romans. Paul corrects each of these misunderstandings. Paul is concerned that his people, Israel, who had the promises of God completely, missed the meaning. He did not want them to miss their Messiah.

Paul addresses the common, erroneous misunderstandings and objections for why God has not fulfilled His program and purpose with Israel (9:6-29)

3^rd Anticipated misunderstanding (9:19-29)

Paul now anticipates this objection: If this is all true, then why does

God still find fault and not go ahead and fulfill His program with Israel?

¹⁹ Thou wilt say then unto me, Why doth he yet find fault? For who hath resisted his will? ²⁰ Nay but, O man, who art thou that repliest against God? Shall the thing formed say to him that formed it, Why hast thou made me thus?²¹ Hath not the potter power over the clay, of the same lump to make one vessel unto honour, and another unto dishonour?²² What if God, willing to shew his wrath, and to make his power known, endured with much longsuffering the vessels of wrath fitted to destruction:²³ And that he might make known the riches of his glory on the vessels of mercy, which he had afore prepared unto glory,²⁴ Even us, whom he hath called, not of the Jews only, but also of the Gentiles?²⁵ As he saith also in Hosea, I will call them my people, which were not my people; and her beloved, which was not beloved.²⁶ And it shall come to pass, that in the place where it was said unto them, Ye are not my people; there shall they be called the children of the living God.²⁷ Isaiah also crieth concerning Israel, Though the number of the children of Israel be as the sand of the sea, a remnant shall be saved:²⁸ For he will finish the work, and cut it short in righteousness: because a short work will the Lord make upon the earth.²⁹ And as Isaiah said before, Except the Lord of Sabaoth had left us a seed, we had been as Sodom, and been made like unto Gomorrha.

For who has resisted His will and prevented Him from showing His mercy and graciousness, etc.? No one has. But, as Paul declares, no one has the right to dispute with God about what He is doing, or how long it takes, etc.

Israel seems not to recognize that God is all knowing, powerful, and ever present. They also seem to have forgotten their rejection of God.

Conclusion (9:30-33)

What has happened then?

³⁰ What shall we say then? That the Gentiles, which followed not after righteousness, have attained to righteousness, even the righteousness which is of faith.³¹ But Israel, which followed after the law of righteousness, hath not attained to the law of righteousness. ³² Wherefore? Because they sought it not by faith, but as it were by the works of the law. For they stumbled at that stumbling stone;³³ As it is written, Behold, I lay in Zion a stumbling stone and rock of offence: and whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed.

God has turned to the Gentiles in mercy and grace in response to Israel’s stumbling over the Lord Jesus Christ.

 The rejection of their Messiah, Yeshua (Jesus), was why they are not saved today. Although the Scriptures clearly teach about the Messiah, Israel refuses to acknowledge or put their faith in Him.

The Gentiles are in the same position. Many refuse to acknowledge Jesus as Savior and Lord.

Pray for those who are lost. Tell them about Jesus!

Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001

Good morning,

Chapter 9 of Romans deals with three misunderstandings of the Romans. Paul corrects each of these misunderstandings. Paul is concerned that his people, Israel, who had the promises of God completely, missed the meaning. He did not want them to miss their Messiah.

Paul addresses the common, erroneous misunderstandings and objections for why God has not fulfilled His program and purpose with Israel (9:6-29)

1^st Anticipated misunderstanding (9:6-13)

What has happened to Israel? Has the word of God taken none effect?

⁶ Not as though the word of God hath taken none effect. For they are not all Israel, which are of Israel: ⁷ Neither, because they are the seed of Abraham, are they all children: but, In Isaac shall thy seed be called. ⁸ That is, They which are the children of the flesh, these are not the children of God: but the children of the promise are counted for the seed.⁹ For this is the word of promise, At this time will I come, and Sarah shall have a son. ¹⁰ And not only this; but when Rebecca also had conceived by one, even by our father Isaac; ¹¹ (For the children being not yet born, neither having done any good or evil, that the purpose of God according to election might stand, not of works, but of him that calleth;)¹² It was said unto her, The elder shall serve the younger.¹³ As it is written, Jacob have I loved, but Esau have I hated.

Though that might seem so – Paul shows that this is NOT the case at all. In fact, God’s word all along has been calling out those in Israel who will fulfill His plan and purpose.

To enhance your study, please read Genesis 21:12, 18:10, 14, 25:23, and Malachi 1:1-3.

2^nd Anticipated misunderstanding (9:14-18)

Is God being unrighteous in what He has done with Israel?

¹⁴ What shall we say then? Is there unrighteousness with God? God forbid.¹⁵ For he saith to Moses, I will have mercy on whom I will have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I will have compassion.¹⁶ So then it is not of him that willeth, nor of him that runneth, but of God that sheweth mercy.¹⁷ For the scripture saith unto Pharaoh, Even for this same purpose have I raised thee up, that I might shew my power in thee, and that my name might be declared throughout all the earth.¹⁸ Therefore hath he mercy on whom he will have mercy, and whom he will he hardeneth.

No, not at all – as Paul shows. In spite of His program with Israel, God has the right to be merciful and gracious to whomsoever He will – including the Gentiles – and God even has the right to delay fulfilling His declared purpose with Israel in order to accomplish another purpose He has.

To enhance your study, please read Exodus 33:19 and 9:16.

Tomorrow we will look at the last of the misunderstandings.

Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001

 

 

Good morning,

Chapter 9 of Romans deals with three misunderstandings of the Romans. Paul corrects each of these misunderstandings. Paul is concerned that his people, Israel, who had the promises of God completely missed the meaning. He did not want them to miss their Messiah.

We see his concern in the first five verses.

Paul’s concern for Israel (9:1-5)

I say the truth in Christ, I lie not, my conscience also bearing me witness in the Holy Ghost,² That I have great heaviness and continual sorrow in my heart.³ For I could wish that myself were accursed from Christ for my brethren, my kinsmen according to the flesh:⁴ Who are Israelites; to whom pertaineth the adoption, and the glory, and the covenants, and the giving of the law, and the service of God, and the promises;⁵ Whose are the fathers, and of whom as concerning the flesh Christ came, who is over all, God blessed for ever. Amen.

Declaration of the fact that God has not fulfilled His program and purpose with Israel.

God’s plan for Israel is that they get saved.

Tomorrow we will look at the first two misunderstandings and how Paul corrected their thinking.

Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001