Good morning,

God’s word challenges our thinking.

When the Bible says God rules over everything, that we should “fear not”, the blessings God shows to Israel, the church, and to the United States, then we must ask ourselves, how does this impact me? What should be my response to God’s goodness?

This week we look at what our spiritual attitude should be. We have responsibilities to act in accordance with Scriptural principles. What are they?

5) SPIRITUAL CONDUCT (COLOSSIANS 3:1-3, 5, 8-11, 9-14, 17)

Seek those things above V1

If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God.

Set your affections on things above V2

Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth.

Mortify your members which are upon this earth V5

Mortify therefore your members which are upon the earth; fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affection, evil concupiscence, and covetousness, which is idolatry:

Put off:                                                                                  

Anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy communication lie not one with another V8-9

But now ye also put off all these; anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy communication out of your mouth.⁹ Lie not one to another, seeing that ye have put off the old man with his deeds;

Put on: 

The new man, which is renewed in knowledge, bowels of mercy, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering, forbearing one another, forgiving one another, charity V 10-14

And have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him:¹¹ Where there is neither Greek nor Jew, circumcision nor uncircumcision, Barbarian, Scythian, bond nor free: but Christ is all, and in all.¹² Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering;¹³ Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye.¹⁴ And above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness.

Peace of God V15

And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful.

How do we conduct ourselves as believers in Christ?

Colossians 3 gives us three things to do. Seek those things which are above, set your affections on things above, and mortify (kill) your members which are on the earth.

Then we are instructed to put off a list of wicked, sinful, character qualities, and put on a list of Godly, spiritual, Biblical, character qualities.

Our testimony for Christ is directly related to the character qualities we present to others. If we fail to exhibit characteristics of love, patience, mercy, humbleness, meekness, forgiveness, we will not be a good witness for Jesus Christ.

God desires us to walk close to Him, proclaim the good news of the gospel message, and pray for the lost to come to Christ.

Each of us has a part to play. Will we be obedient to God’s call?

Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001 chaplain@alaskaseniors.com

Good morning,

God’s word challenges our thinking.

When the Bible says God rules over everything, that we should “fear not”, the blessings God shows to Israel, the church, and to the United States, then we must ask ourselves, how does this impact me? What should be my response to God’s goodness?

This week we look at what our spiritual attitude should be. We have responsibilities to act in accordance with Scriptural principles. What are they?

SPIRITUAL ATTITUDE

JAMES 3:17

But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be entreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy.

1) SPIRITUAL BATTLE (EPHESIANS 6:10-12)

Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. Put on the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.

2) SPIRITUAL MIND (PHILIPPIANS 2:1-18) KEY VERSES 2, 3-16

Like minded, same love, being of one accord, one mind V2

Fulfil ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind.

Put others first V3-4

Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves.4 Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others.

Let the mind of Christ be in us V5-6

Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus:6 Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God:                 

Humble ourselves as Jesus did V7-8

But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men:⁸ And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.

Bow to Jesus and confess that Jesus is Lord V 10-11

That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth;11 And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

Work out your salvation with fear and trembling V12

Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling.

God works in us both to will and to do of his good pleasure V13

For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure.

Do all things without murmurings and disputing V14

Do all things without murmurings and disputings:

Result that we might be blameless V15

That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world;

Holding forth the word of life, that I have not run in vain, neither labored in vain V16

Holding forth the word of life; that I may rejoice in the day of Christ, that I have not run in vain, neither labored in vain.

Spiritual attitude begins with the wisdom of God. James 3:17 tells us about God’s wisdom. It is pure, peaceable, gentle, easy to be done, merciful, with good fruits, without partiality and hypocrisy. Do those terms define how we live our lives?

Elections pit people of opposing views vying for a specific political position. We see the battle as between individuals or political parties. Ephesians 6:11-12 tells us, “For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.” Our battle is against Satan and his forces of evil. Satan will do all he can to distract us from following God and obeying His word.

Then God gives us the example of Jesus Christ. What He did. How He acted. That is the template for us.

Read each of the attributes and ask yourself, “How can I apply this to my life?” These character qualities will help shape our spiritual attitude. It will make us more like Christ.

3) SPIRITUAL ACTIONS (PHILIPPIANS 4:1-9) KEY VERSES 4, 6, 7, 8

Rejoice V4

Rejoice in the Lord always: and again I say, Rejoice

Pray and ask V6

Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.

Peace of God V7

And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

Think on these things: whatsoever is: True, honest, just, pure, lovely, good report, virtue, praise V8

Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.

4) SPIRITUAL FRUIT (GALATIANS 5:22-3)

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.

Philippians 4:1-9 gives practical things to do to enhance our spiritual attitude. Rejoice in the Lord. Why? Because of all the great things He has done for us.

Pray and ask. We have the privilege to go directly to God with our praise, prayers, and concerns.

When we do this we will enjoy the peace of God. It would be hard not to, when we are communing with God.

Philippians 4:8 gives us a way to defeat Satan, grow closer to God, and enhance our spiritual attitude. Eight items are mentioned. We are to think on these things. What things? “Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.”

As we draw closer to God through prayer, the reading, studying, and obedience to the Bible, characteristics about us should change.

The changes should be in line with Galatians 5:22-23, the fruit of the Spirit. The fruit of the Spirit should be more evident the longer we have been saved. Are they?

Spiritual attitude is made up of a combination of different principles which mature us in Christ. A mature believer brings much happiness to God, believers and unbelievers, and the church family.

5) SPIRITUAL CONDUCT (COLOSSIANS 3:1-3, 5, 8-11, 9-14, 17)

Seek those things above V1

If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God.

Set your affections on things above V2

Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth.

Mortify your members which are upon this earth V5

Mortify therefore your members which are upon the earth; fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affection, evil concupiscence, and covetousness, which is idolatry:

Put off:                                                                                 

Anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy communication lie not one with another V8-9

But now ye also put off all these; anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy communication out of your mouth.⁹ Lie not one to another, seeing that ye have put off the old man with his deeds;

Put on: 

The new man, which is renewed in knowledge, bowels of mercy, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering, forbearing one another, forgiving one another, charity V 10-14

And have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him:¹¹ Where there is neither Greek nor Jew, circumcision nor uncircumcision, Barbarian, Scythian, bond nor free: but Christ is all, and in all.¹² Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering;¹³ Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye.¹⁴ And above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness.

Peace of God V15

And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful.

How do we conduct ourselves as believers in Christ?

Colossians 3 gives us three things to do. Seek those things which are above, set your affections on things above, and mortify (kill) your members which are on the earth.

Then we are instructed to put off a list of wicked, sinful, character qualities, and put on a list of Godly, spiritual, Biblical, character qualities.

Our testimony for Christ is directly related to the character qualities we present to others. If we fail to exhibit characteristics of love, patience, mercy, humbleness, meekness, forgiveness, we will not be a good witness for Jesus Christ.

God desires us to walk close to Him, proclaim the good news of the gospel message, and pray for the lost to come to Christ.

Each of us has a part to play. Will we be obedient to God’s call?

6) SPIRITUAL TRUST (PROVERBS 3:5-6)

Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.

7) SPIRITUAL CLEANSING (1 JOHN 1:9)

If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

We now come full circle to where we began. God rules. God knows everything. He sees all.

The question is, will we trust Him with our whole heart?

Proverbs 3:5-6 challenges us to trust God with all thine heart, then to lean not unto thine own understanding, then to acknowledge Him in all thy ways, and allow Him to direct our paths.

We will only be able to do this if we believe God rules, knows, and sees all. Then we place our faith and trust in Jesus Christ for our salvation. Then we will be able claim the promise of Proverbs 3:5-6.

Another promise that God gives to us is His forgiveness. If we are willing to confess, repent, turn the opposite direction from our sin, He will forgive us, and will continue to give us opportunity to serve Him.

We are His children and He loves us. He wants to bless us. He wants us to forsake our sin and trust Him without reservations.

Will we?

Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001 chaplain@alaskaseniors.com

Good morning,

God’s word challenges our thinking.

When the Bible says God rules over everything, that we should “fear not”, the blessings God shows to Israel, the church, and to the United States, then we must ask ourselves, how does this impact me? What should be my response to God’s goodness?

This week we look at what our spiritual attitude should be. We have responsibilities to act in accordance with Scriptural principles. What are they?

3) SPIRITUAL ACTIONS (PHILIPPIANS 4:1-9) KEY VERSES 4, 6, 7, 8

Rejoice V4       

Rejoice in the Lord always: and again I say, Rejoice

Pray and ask V6

Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.

Peace of God V7

And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

Think on these things: whatsoever is: True, honest, just, pure, lovely, good report, virtue, praise V8

Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.

4) SPIRITUAL FRUIT (GALATIANS 5:22-3)

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.

Philippians 4:1-9 gives practical things to do to enhance our spiritual attitude. Rejoice in the Lord. Why? Because of all the great things He has done for us.

Pray and ask. We have the privilege to go directly to God with our praise, prayers, and concerns.

When we do this we will enjoy the peace of God. It would be hard not to, when we are communing with God.

Philippians 4:8 gives us a way to defeat Satan, grow closer to God, and enhance our spiritual attitude. Eight items are mentioned. We are to think on these things. What things? “Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.”

As we draw closer to God through prayer, the reading, studying, and obedience to the Bible, characteristics about us should change.

The changes should be in line with Galatians 5:22-23, the fruit of the Spirit. The fruit of the Spirit should be more evident the longer we have been saved. Are they?

Spiritual attitude is made up of a combination of different principles which mature us in Christ. A mature believer brings much happiness to God, believers and unbelievers, and the church family.

Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001 chaplain@alaskaseniors.com

Good morning,

God’s word challenges our thinking.

When the Bible says God rules over everything, that we should “fear not”, the blessings God shows to Israel, the church, and to the United States, then we must ask ourselves, how does this impact me? What should be my response to God’s goodness?

This week we look at what our spiritual attitude should be. We have responsibilities to act in accordance with Scriptural principles. What are they?

SPIRITUAL ATTITUDE

JAMES 3:17

But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be entreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy.

1) SPIRITUAL BATTLE (EPHESIANS 6:10-12)

 Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. Put on the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.

2) SPIRITUAL MIND (PHILIPPIANS 2:1-18) KEY VERSES 2, 3-16

Like minded, same love, being of one accord, one mind V2

Fulfil ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind.

Put others first V3-4

Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves.4 Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others.

Let the mind of Christ be in us V5-6

Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus:6 Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God:                 

Humble ourselves as Jesus did V7-8

But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men:⁸ And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.

Bow to Jesus and confess that Jesus is Lord V 10-11

That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth;11 And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

Work out your salvation with fear and trembling V12

Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling.

God works in us both to will and to do of his good pleasure V13

For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure.

Do all things without murmurings and disputing V14

Do all things without murmurings and disputings:

Result that we might be blameless V15

That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world;

Holding forth the word of life, that I have not run in vain, neither labored in vain V16

Holding forth the word of life; that I may rejoice in the day of Christ, that I have not run in vain, neither labored in vain.

Spiritual attitude begins with the wisdom of God. James 3:17 tells us about God’s wisdom. It is pure, peaceable, gentle, easy to be done, merciful, with good fruits, without partiality and hypocrisy. Do those terms define how we live our lives?

Elections pit people of opposing views vying for a specific political position. We see the battle as between individuals or political parties. Ephesians 6:11-12 tells us, “For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.” Our battle is against Satan and his forces of evil. Satan will do all he can to distract us from following God and obeying His word.

Then God gives us the example of Jesus Christ. What He did. How He acted. That is the template for us.

Read each of the attributes and ask yourself, “How can I apply this to my life?” These character qualities will help shape our spiritual attitude. It will make us more like Christ.

Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001 chaplain@alaskaseniors.com

Good morning,

Israel is preparing to go into the promised land. Moses will not be leading them. God has chosen a new leader, Joshua. This week we will look at the transition of leadership. Please read Deuteronomy 31:1-23, 34:1-12 for the historical background. Joshua 1 will be our text.

“And Joshua the son of Nun was full of the spirit of wisdom; for Moses had laid his hands upon him: and the children of Israel hearkened unto him, and did as the Lord commanded Moses.” (Deuteronomy 34:9)

Response of the People (V16-18)

“And they answered Joshua, saying, All that thou commandest us we will do, and whithersoever thou sendest us, we will go. ¹⁷ According as we hearkened unto Moses in all things, so will we hearken unto thee: only the Lord thy God be with thee, as he was with Moses. ¹⁸ Whosoever he be that doth rebel against thy commandment, and will not hearken unto thy words in all that thou commandest him, he shall be put to death: only be strong and of a good courage.”

The people obey!

Believers in Christ should obey God’s word. When we do, we are blessed, and when we do not, we are in line for God’s chastisement.

CONCLUSION:

Leaders must:

1) Be full of the spirit of wisdom

2) Follow God’s leading

3) Go

4) Be strong and courageous

5) Obey the word of God

6) Meditate on the word of God

7) Prepare

Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001 chaplain@alaskaseniors.com

Good morning,

Israel is preparing to go into the promised land. Moses will not be leading them. God has chosen a new leader, Joshua. This week we will look at the transition of leadership. Please read Deuteronomy 31:1-23, 34:1-12 for the historical background. Joshua 1 will be our text.

“And Joshua the son of Nun was full of the spirit of wisdom; for Moses had laid his hands upon him: and the children of Israel hearkened unto him, and did as the Lord commanded Moses.” (Deuteronomy 34:9)

Joshua Prepares to Cross Jordan (V10-15)

“Then Joshua commanded the officers of the people, saying, ¹¹ Pass through the host, and command the people, saying, Prepare you victuals; for within three days ye shall pass over this Jordan, to go in to possess the land, which the Lord your God giveth you to possess it. ¹² And to the Reubenites, and to the Gadites, and to half the tribe of Manasseh, spake Joshua, saying, ¹³ Remember the word which Moses the servant of the Lord commanded you, saying, The Lord your God hath given you rest, and hath given you this land. ¹⁴ Your wives, your little ones, and your cattle, shall remain in the land which Moses gave you on this side Jordan; but ye shall pass before your brethren armed, all the mighty men of valor, and help them; ¹⁵ Until the Lord have given your brethren rest, as he hath given you, and they also have possessed the land which the Lord your God giveth them: then ye shall return unto the land of your possession, and enjoy it, which Moses the Lord’s servant gave you on this side Jordan toward the sunrising.”

Joshua commanded his officers to prepare the people to go in to possess the land. Then he reminds the Reubenites, Gadites, and half tribe of Manasseh, who received their possession already, how they promised to help the other tribes fight for their land.

The Bible gives many examples about being prepared.

“The ants are a people not strong, yet they prepare their meat in the summer;” (Proverbs 30:25)

“In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you.³ And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.” (John 14:2-3)

“By faith Noah, being warned of God of things not seen as yet, moved with fear, prepared an ark to the saving of his house; by the which he condemned the world, and became heir of the righteousness which is by faith.” (Hebrews 11:7)

“And I John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband.” (Revelation 21:2)

Are we prepared to serve God? Do we know what God’s word says? Are we prepared to tells about faith in Jesus Christ?

Lt’s get prepared for the spiritual battle ahead!

Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001 chaplain@alaskaseniors.com

Good morning,

Israel is preparing to go into the Promised Land. Moses will not be leading them. God has chosen a new leader, Joshua. This week we will look at the transition of leadership. Please read Deuteronomy 31:1-23, 34:1-12 for the historical background. Joshua 1 will be our text.

Joshua

And Joshua the son of Nun was full of the spirit of wisdom; for Moses had laid his hands upon him: and the children of Israel hearkened unto him, and did as the Lord commanded Moses. (Deuteronomy 34:9)

Introduction: God chooses Joshua to be the next leader of Israel. “And Moses called unto Joshua, and said unto him in the sight of all Israel, Be strong and of a good courage: for thou must go with this people unto the land which the Lord hath sworn unto their fathers to give them; and thou shalt cause them to inherit it. ⁸ And the Lord, he it is that doth go before thee; he will be with thee, he will not fail thee, neither forsake thee: fear not, neither be dismayed.” (Deuteronomy 31:7-8)

Joshua 1

God’s Commission (V1-4)

Now after the death of Moses the servant of the Lord it came to pass, that the Lord spake unto Joshua the son of Nun, Moses’ minister, saying, ² Moses my servant is dead; now therefore arise, go over this Jordan, thou, and all this people, unto the land which I do give to them, even to the children of Israel. ³ Every place that the sole of your foot shall tread upon, that have I given unto you, as I said unto Moses. ⁴ From the wilderness and this Lebanon even unto the great river, the river Euphrates, all the land of the Hittites, and unto the great sea toward the going down of the sun, shall be your coast.

God’s Command (V5-9)

⁵ There shall not any man be able to stand before thee all the days of thy life: as I was with Moses, so I will be with thee: I will not fail thee, nor forsake thee. ⁶ Be strong and of a good courage: for unto this people shalt thou divide for an inheritance the land, which I sware unto their fathers to give them. ⁷ Only be thou strong and very courageous, that thou mayest observe to do according to all the law, which Moses my servant commanded thee: turn not from it to the right hand or to the left, that thou mayest prosper withersoever thou goest. ⁸ This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success. ⁹ Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the Lord thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest.

Joshua Prepares to Cross Jordan (V10-15)

¹⁰ Then Joshua commanded the officers of the people, saying, ¹¹ Pass through the host, and command the people, saying, Prepare you victuals; for within three days ye shall pass over this Jordan, to go in to possess the land, which the Lord your God giveth you to possess it. ¹² And to the Reubenites, and to the Gadites, and to half the tribe of Manasseh, spake Joshua, saying, ¹³ Remember the word which Moses the servant of the Lord commanded you, saying, The Lord your God hath given you rest, and hath given you this land. ¹⁴ Your wives, your little ones, and your cattle, shall remain in the land which Moses gave you on this side Jordan; but ye shall pass before your brethren armed, all the mighty men of valor, and help them; ¹⁵ Until the Lord have given your brethren rest, as he hath given you, and they also have possessed the land which the Lord your God giveth them: then ye shall return unto the land of your possession, and enjoy it, which Moses the Lord’s servant gave you on this side Jordan toward the sunrising.

Response of the People (V16-18)

¹⁶ And they answered Joshua, saying, All that thou commandest us we will do, and whithersoever thou sendest us, we will go. ¹⁷ According as we hearkened unto Moses in all things, so will we hearken unto thee: only the Lord thy God be with thee, as he was with Moses. ¹⁸ Whosoever he be that doth rebel against thy commandment, and will not hearken unto thy words in all that thou commandest him, he shall be put to death: only be strong and of a good courage.

CONCLUSION:

Leaders must:

1) Be full of the spirit of wisdom

2) Follow God’s leading

3) Go

4) Be strong and courageous

5) Obey the word of God

6) Meditate on the word of God

7) Prepare

Good morning,

“10 women in the Bible who exceeded expectations.

Immediately we can think of women in the Bible like Mary, Eve, Sarah, Miriam, Esther, Ruth, Naomi, Deborah, and Mary Magdalene. But there are others that have only a small appearance in the Bible, some as few as one verse. 

While plenty of women in the Bible were strong, capable women, these ladies didn’t sit around waiting for someone else to get the job done. They feared God and lived faithfully. They did what they needed to do.” (Kate Edwards is a School Chaplain, Kid’s Ministry Leader and aspiring Bible Scholar. http://www.thenurturedword.com/)

This week we will look at some of the lesser-known women in the Bible. They will challenge us in our walk with the Lord.

9. Phoebe

“Phoebe was a deacon who served with the overseers/elders of the church. She supported Paul and many others in the work of the Lord. No mention is made of her husband, if she had one.

Phoebe in the Bible – In Romans 16:1-2 

“I commend to you our sister Phoebe, a deacon of the church at Cenchreae, so that you may welcome her in the Lord as is fitting for the saints, and help her in whatever she may require from you, for she has been a benefactor of many and of myself as well.”

How she exceeded expectations:

Women were not readily given leadership roles during this time, as women were not trusted the same as men in the culture. Her appointment as a servant/deacon shows the trust that was attributed to her by the early church leaders.” (Kate Edwards is a School Chaplain, Kid’s Ministry Leader and aspiring Bible Scholar. http://www.thenurturedword.com/)

Phoebe is a believer in Christ (sister), a servant, and a helper of many. Paul commends her to the Roman church and asks them to receive her and help her in whatever she needs. She had earned the trust of Paul and other firs century church leaders.

Whatever our status in life, we can earn the respect of others by our commitment to Christ. We need to serve others and be willing to give our time, talent, and treasures.

Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001 chaplain@alaskaseniors.com

Good morning,

“10 women in the Bible who exceeded expectations.

Immediately we can think of women in the Bible like Mary, Eve, Sarah, Miriam, Esther, Ruth, Naomi, Deborah, and Mary Magdalene. But there are others that have only a small appearance in the Bible, some as few as one verse. 

While plenty of women in the Bible were strong, capable women, these ladies didn’t sit around waiting for someone else to get the job done. They feared God and lived faithfully. They did what they needed to do.” (Kate Edwards is a School Chaplain, Kid’s Ministry Leader and aspiring Bible Scholar. http://www.thenurturedword.com/)

This week we will look at some of the lesser-known women in the Bible. They will challenge us in our walk with the Lord.

8. Priscilla

“Priscilla, also known as Prisca, was a Jewish woman from Rome who converted to Christianity. Some may point out that she is always mentioned with her husband and never on her own. However, they are always shown as equals in Christ, and the two of them together are remembered as leaders of the early church.

Priscilla in the Bible – Romans 16:3-4 

“Greet Prisca and Aquila, who work with me in Christ Jesus, and who risked their necks for my life, to whom not only I give thanks, but also all the churches of the Gentiles.”

Pricilla and Aquila were tentmakers like Paul (Acts 18:3).

Luke also tells us in Acts 18 that when Apollos began to speak in Ephesus it was Priscilla and Aquila together who pulled him aside and explained the Way of God more accurately.

How she exceeded expectations: 

Priscilla is an example of how a husband and wife can have an equal partnership in their work for the Lord. She was noted of having equal importance to her husband, both to God and the early church. Here we see the early church respecting husbands and wives working together as useful teachers for the gospel.” (Kate Edwards is a School Chaplain, Kid’s Ministry Leader and aspiring Bible Scholar. http://www.thenurturedword.com/)

Priscilla was a well-trained leader in the first century church. She was a tent maker, a teacher of God’s word, loyal to Paul’s ministry, and wise in correct doctrine.

Does God use women in ministry? YES! Priscilla is commended by Paul for her hard work. She is also faithful to her husband. They work together to see people saved and encouraged in God’s word.

Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001 chaplain@alaskaseniors.com

Good morning,

“10 women in the Bible who exceeded expectations.

Immediately we can think of women in the Bible like Mary, Eve, Sarah, Miriam, Esther, Ruth, Naomi, Deborah, and Mary Magdalene. But there are others that have only a small appearance in the Bible, some as few as one verse. 

While plenty of women in the Bible were strong, capable women, these ladies didn’t sit around waiting for someone else to get the job done. They feared God and lived faithfully. They did what they needed to do.” (Kate Edwards is a School Chaplain, Kid’s Ministry Leader and aspiring Bible Scholar. http://www.thenurturedword.com/)

This week we will look at some of the lesser-known women in the Bible. They will challenge us in our walk with the Lord.

6. Huldah

“After the priest Hilkiah discovered a book of the Law during renovations at Solomon’s Temple, Huldah declared prophetically that the book they found was the authentic word of the Lord. She also prophesied destruction, as the people had not been following the instructions in the book. Yet, she ends with reassurance for King Josiah that he would not see the destruction because of his repentance.

Huldah was married yet also was a prophetess in her own right. She was used by God to declare that the writings found were authentic Scripture. You can find her mentioned in 2 Kings 22 and again in 2 Chronicles 34:22-28.

Huldah in the Bible – 2 Kings 22:14

‘Hilkiah the priest, Ahikam, Akbor, Shaphan and Asaiah went to speak to the prophet Huldah, who was the wife of Shallum son of Tikvah, the son of Harhas, keeper of the wardrobe. She lived in Jerusalem, in the New Quarter.”

How she exceeded expectations: 

Huldah is the only female prophet in the book of Kings. When King Josiah had questions about the book of the Law that was found, his priest, secretary, and attendant went to see Huldah to clarify God’s Word. They trusted that Huldah would prophesy the truth; it didn’t matter that she was a prophetess.”

Why did Hilkiah, the priest, go to Huldah for answers about the book of the law? He was the priest and should have been able to answer the king’s questions.

Could it be for the last 57 years, two evil kings, Manasseh and Amon, did evil in the sight of the Lord. The temple was desecrated, idols were worshipped, Baal worship was reinstituted, innocent blood was shed. They failed to listen to the prophets of God. The book of the law was not read or obeyed. (Kate Edwards is a School Chaplain, Kid’s Ministry Leader and aspiring Bible Scholar. http://www.thenurturedword.com/)

The priests were not taught the law during this time.

God chose Huldah to be His spokesperson. God confirmed that the book they found was the book of the law. Then a prophetic word of judgement was given. The result was repentance from King Josiah, public reading of the book of the law, reforms in obedience to the book of the law. Unfortunately, the obedience to God only lasted through the lifetime of Josiah.

Huldah set in motion the last revival Israel was to see before the Babylonian captivity.

7. Lydia

“Lydia was one of the first converts to Christianity. In Acts 16:14-15, she is described as a worshiper of God and a businesswoman with a family. The Lord opened her heart, and she and her entire household were baptized. She then opened her house to Paul and his companions, offering hospitality to the missionaries.

Lydia in the Bible – Acts 16:14-15

“A certain woman named Lydia, a worshiper of God, was listening to us; she was from the city of Thyatira and a dealer in purple cloth. The Lord opened her heart to listen eagerly to what was said by Paul. When she and her household were baptized, she urged us, saying, “If you have judged me to be faithful to the Lord, come and stay at my home.” And she prevailed upon us.”

How she exceeded expectations: 

Lydia was part of a group that met for prayer by the river; they did not have a synagogue, as synagogues required at least 10 Jewish men. Being a seller of purple cloth, she would have been wealthy; yet, she humbled herself offering hospitality to others. Luke mentions Lydia by name, noting her importance in this record of history.” (Kate Edwards is a School Chaplain, Kid’s Ministry Leader and aspiring Bible Scholar. http://www.thenurturedword.com/)

Lydia challenges us to use what we have for God. A brand new believer, she uses her wealth and home to minister to Paul and his associates. When Paul and Silas are released from jail, Acts 16:40, they went to the house of Lydia. 

Not all ministry is preaching and teaching. Prayer, helps, logistics, food, and lodging are required for the gospel message to go forward.

8. Priscilla

“Priscilla, also known as Prisca, was a Jewish woman from Rome who converted to Christianity. Some may point out that she is always mentioned with her husband and never on her own. However, they are always shown as equals in Christ, and the two of them together are remembered as leaders of the early church.

Priscilla in the Bible – Romans 16:3-4 

“Greet Prisca and Aquila, who work with me in Christ Jesus, and who risked their necks for my life, to whom not only I give thanks, but also all the churches of the Gentiles.”

Pricilla and Aquila were tentmakers like Paul (Acts 18:3).

Luke also tells us in Acts 18 that when Apollos began to speak in Ephesus it was Priscilla and Aquila together who pulled him aside and explained the Way of God more accurately.

How she exceeded expectations: 

Priscilla is an example of how a husband and wife can have an equal partnership in their work for the Lord. She was noted of having equal importance to her husband, both to God and the early church. Here we see the early church respecting husbands and wives working together as useful teachers for the gospel.” (Kate Edwards is a School Chaplain, Kid’s Ministry Leader and aspiring Bible Scholar. http://www.thenurturedword.com/)

Priscilla was a well-trained leader in the first century church. She was a tent maker, a teacher of God’s word, loyal to Paul’s ministry, and wise in correct doctrine.

Does God use women in ministry? YES! Priscilla is commended by Paul for her hard work. She is also faithful to her husband. They work together to see people saved and encouraged in God’s word.

9. Phoebe

“Phoebe was a deacon who served with the overseers/elders of the church. She supported Paul and many others in the work of the Lord. No mention is made of her husband, if she had one.

Phoebe in the Bible – In Romans 16:1-2 

“I commend to you our sister Phoebe, a deacon of the church at Cenchreae, so that you may welcome her in the Lord as is fitting for the saints, and help her in whatever she may require from you, for she has been a benefactor of many and of myself as well.”

How she exceeded expectations: 

Women were not readily given leadership roles during this time, as women were not trusted the same as men in the culture. Her appointment as a servant/deacon shows the trust that was attributed to her by the early church leaders.” (Kate Edwards is a School Chaplain, Kid’s Ministry Leader and aspiring Bible Scholar. http://www.thenurturedword.com/)

Phoebe is a believer in Christ (sister), a servant, and a helper of many. Paul commends her to the Roman church and asks them to receive her and help her in whatever she needs. She had earned the trust of Paul and other firs century church leaders.

Whatever our status in life, we can earn the respect of others by our commitment to Christ. We need to serve others and be willing to give our time, talent, and treasures.

10. The Women Who Witnessed the Resurrection of Christ 

During the time of Christ, women were not allowed to be witnesses in the legal sense. Their testimony was not considered credible. Yet, it is women who are recorded in the gospels as the first to see the risen Christ and proclaim him to the rest of the disciples.

The accounts vary across the gospels, and while Mary Magdalene is the first to witness the risen Jesus in all four, the Gospels of Luke and Matthew include other women as witnesses too. Matthew 28:1 includes, “the other Mary,” while Luke 24:10 includes Joanna, Mary the mother of James, and the other women.

How they exceeded expectations: 

These women were recorded in history as credible witnesses, in a time when men alone were considered trustworthy. This record has stumped many over the years who assumed the disciples of Jesus made up the resurrection account.  (Kate Edwards is a School Chaplain, Kid’s Ministry Leader and aspiring Bible Scholar. http://www.thenurturedword.com/)

Final thoughts…

There are many strong women in the Bible who depended on God more than themselves. Some had to lie to save others, and others broke tradition to do the right thing. Their deeds, as guided by God, are recorded in the Bible for all to read and be inspired by.

Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001 chaplain@alaskaseniors.com