STAY CLOSE TO GOD

Welcome to everyone who will enter into this week's 24/7, week long online church service. I always say and emphasize – everyone is welcome in this place.

It is hard to believe, my friends, but next week we'll be starting our third month of your online church service. We have endeavored to live up to our promise of sharing the Word of God with you. Our mission has been and always will be to share Jesus and to relate how the Bible is the Word of God, and how it relates to today.

Our first posting was August 2, 2009. I stated at that time that we would strive to make our services interesting and truthful. By God's grace and mercy, I believe we have been true to our word. Thank you for your amazing response to this work of God. Many of your e-mails, comments and prayers have been a great source of encouragement to us.

Our desire is to present the gospel of Jesus Christ in a way that will cause nonbelievers to ask Jesus into their hearts and lives; to draw the believer that has strayed off the narrow road back home, and to minister healing to the physically or mentally sick.

God has blessed us with anointed messages and is moving us step by step in the right direction. He has provided us with “words of life” that we are freely sharing with you. This week we are led to revisit some of the previous messages. We understand that some of you may not have seen or read all of them. Week 1: God led us to give a message “Choose Wisely.” We started by declaring that “Today is the day that the Lord has made” Psalm 118:24:

“This is the day which the Lord hath made; we shall rejoice and be glad in it.”

What a great direction for each day, my friends. Everyday is a day of salvation God has provided for us. Let us be thankful each day for this gift of God. We then reached out to the lost, those that have not accepted Jesus as Lord of their lives, we quoted John 3:16, one of the most read and glossed over of scriptures.

“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”

Nonbeliever, God does not want you to perish. He wants you to have an abundant, eternal life with Him. Let today be the day of acceptance for you. If the Spirit of God is drawing you to Him, just say “Lord, in Jesus name I ask for forgiveness of my sins. I believe Jesus died and rose again from the dead so that I may be saved. Jesus, come into my heart and become my savior. I will make you Lord of my life. I believe in my heart and confess with my mouth I am saved.” Did you mean it? If so, welcome to the family of God!

On the theme of choosing wisely we went to Deut. 30:19:

“I call heaven and earth to record this day against you, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing (sin): therefore choose life, that both thou and thy seed (your children) may live.”

You see how good God is? He gives us a choice and even tells us the best way to choose, but still leaves the choice up to us. What do you choose – life or death?

Week 2: The title was “Stir it Up.” This message mainly addressed believers, but invited nonbelievers to eavesdrop. We asked the question – Who are we (Christians) and why are we here? Turn in your Bibles to II Cor. 5:20:

“Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ stead, be ye reconciled to God.”

God's Word to us that day, and still today, is that our mission is to represent Jesus Christ and the kingdom of God here on earth. Our citizenship, since receiving Christ and being born again, is the kingdom of God. We are on this earth in an official capacity. We are to represent and present Jesus to the lost so they may be set free from their burden of sin by receiving Jesus as their Lord and Savior. We also pointed out that one of the pitfalls ambassadors face is becoming too familiar with the land or kingdom they are to influence and forgetting what kingdom they really represent. When that happens, the ambassador becomes useless and ineffective to the kingdom they are supposed to represent. The question was then asked – is that the kind of ambassador you desire to be? Hopefully not. I have often stated there is no such thing as “dual citizenship” in the kingdom of God. Stay true to God and represent Christ well. We then pointed out that sometimes we allow our spirits to become like fallow ground. Refer to Jeremiah 4:3, where God says break up that fallow ground, and sow not among thorns. So we must rake up our spirit. We must stir up what God has put in us. We stated clearly – be a light!! Reconcile the lost to God and watch them grow in freedom, love and the mercy and grace of God as will you, my good ambassador of Christ.

Finally, we pointed out to our unbelieving friends: If you have met an ambassador of Christ, it is because God loves you and wants you in His kingdom. What will your answer be to God today?

Week 3: We titled the message “Dead Men Walking.” This message was a very important reminder, that all around us, there are people who are walking, talking and alive physically, but are dead spiritually. This statement is backed up by the Bible in many different scriptures. We quoted a few of them. Turn to II Cor. 5:14:

“For the love of Christ constraineth us; because we thus judge, that if one died for all, then were all dead.”

The truth is, we were all dead spiritually after the fall of Adam and Eve. But, thank God, He sent His Son to redeem us. The Bible presents this truth again in Ephesians 2:1-6:

“And you hath he quickened who were dead in trespasses and sins; Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience; Among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lust of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind; and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others. But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us. Even when we were dead in sins, hath
quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved); And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus.”

So as you can see, God is not the God of the dead but of the living, those that have accepted Christ as illustrated above. I believe God was pointing out to us believers that we have a high urgency of responsibility placed upon us. We must understand that we are walking among the dead (spiritually speaking). I got the title from a movie entitled “Dead Men Walking.” It was a true story of a man on death row. When they were walking to the gas chamber, the guards would shout out “Dead man walking!” Yes ladies and gentleman, all around us today there are dead men and women (spiritually). We may be their last hope. God has commissioned us to be His witnesses on the earth. I asked the question – how many of you remember the witness who led you to the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ, that brought you out of death unto the light? There were two examples of believers who shared Jesus with me. Yes, I was once a dead man walking. But because of their faithfulness, I am now alive in Christ and sharing with you.

I implored you to listen to the Spirit of God and tell others the story of your redemption; to put on the hat of compassion, mercy and love that Christ has shown us.

Well my friends, we have recapped three of the anointed, powerful messages God had for you and me. As we enter our third month, we will finish the recap of God's Word through our online church services. I hope this review of past messages has been a blessing to you as it has been to me. Feel free to go back and read weeks one through three fully for yourself.

Each week I ask God to fill me with the words He wants preached. I strive diligently to only say what God desires to be said. This week God impressed on me to share from Psalm 91 with you. The verses we will be looking at will be Psalm 91:1 and verses 14-16. It is believed that Psalm 91 was written by Moses as was the preceding Psalm 90.

“He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.”

One thing I must point out, my friends. It is impossible to be under the shadow of anything if you are not close to it. Therefore, it is impossible to abide under the shadow of the Almighty if you are not close to Him. Knowing our heavenly Father, which can only be done through the knowledge of His Son Jesus, is so very important. In Psalm 91:14-16 God is now speaking through the psalmist. Listen carefully to what God is saying.

“Because he (you) hath set his love upon me, therefore will I deliver him: I will set him on high because he hath known my name. He shall call upon me, and I will answer him: I will be with him in trouble; I will deliver him and honor him. With long life will I satisfy him, and shew him my salvation.”

There it is, my friends!! Our heavenly Father is speaking to you today. He states clearly, because you love him, He will deliver you. What do you need delivered from? Set your love upon Him. God is telling you He will set you on high. Why? Because you know His name. (Do you know His name today?) These are His promises to you if you do. God says you can call on Him and He will answer you. He says He will be with you in your trouble. Are you in trouble, my friends? Marriage trouble, financial trouble, health trouble, any trouble? God will be with you. Not only will He be with you in trouble, He will deliver you and honor you. Imagine that!! God honoring you! Praise God!! With long life He will satisfy you and show you His salvation. I know you are excited by now!! This is His promise to you. Your part is: 1. To set your love upon Him. 2. Know His name. (not just 'know about' His name). Know His name through the acceptance of His Son Jesus Christ as Lord and savior of your life. 3. Call upon Him. This is good news for today!!

God Bless You,

Bro. Bob

FORGIVE THEM FATHER

Welcome to your 24/7, week long online church service. What a great day to celebrate the gift of life God has given us.

I feel an expectation today!! I believe God has anointed this church service. Enter into the grace and mercy of God in this place. Please remember and understand everyone is welcome in this online church. This is a place of salvation (through Jesus Christ), a place of healing. Tell you what! Let's turn in your Bible to I Peter 2:24 and read it together.

Peter writing to isolated believers in northern Asia Minor stated:

“Who his own self (Jesus) bare our sins in his own body on the tree that we being dead to sins should live unto righteousness. By whose stripes ye were healed.”

There you are, my friends. He bore our sins so we could be saved and He took the painful, beating stripes on His back for our healing. That is why we take healing prayer requests seriously in this church. Thank you, Jesus, for all you have wrought for us when you died on that cross. Thank you for taking the humiliation and beating that now provides healing for our mind, body and spirit. Yes Lord, we will take that cross more seriously. Your sacrifice will not be in vain. Can we agree on that, my friends?

I've heard preachers say “We are beyond the cross.” But seriously folks!! We must never forget Jesus died on that cross for us and because of his death and resurrection, we can be saved. We must never forget or minimize the cross and its place in our salvation.

I remember when our son, David, was a small boy. I took him to a small Baptist church in Clintwood, Virginia. There was a guest preacher. I believe his name was Roger Adkins. He was preaching about the death, burial and resurrection of our Lord, Jesus Christ. He described the ruggedness of the cross, the pain of nails being driven through the hands and feet of Jesus, the blood flowing from his side. (I remember my grandmother saying she could hear Bro. Adkins without her hearing aid. I'm smiling as I write that). Bro. Adkins related, as Jesus hung on that old rugged cross, the Romans pierced his side. A big mistake on their part, because that blood that flowed from the side of Jesus didn't just drop on the ground of calvary. But, that shed blood bounded to every place on earth so man could be saved.

Thank God for Jesus, my friends! Always remember the cross of Christ and what it stands for. By the way, my son David is now a pastor and I believe if you asked him, he will look back some thirty years ago and say – I'll never forget Roger Adkins, the man of God who was a big influence on me.

It seems ladies and gentleman, that our church services now begin with the first words produced. Obviously, our service has begun.

All week God has been dealing with me about preaching about the importance of forgiveness in the believer's life. I know you have heard in church how deadly unforgiveness is. Let's look at it from this angle: The entire basis of Jesus coming to earth was to be a sacrifice for our sins so we could be cleansed and forgiven of all of our sin. Our heavenly Father is a God of mercy and forgiveness and He expects man to be the same way. Turn to Daniel 9:9.

“To the Lord our God belong mercies and forgiveness, though we have sinned against thee.”

Yes my friends, God is ready to give us his mercy and forgiveness even though we have sinned and turned our backs on Him. Do we have that same character? Can we forgive people who have done us wrong? Do we show mercy and forgiveness to all? Probably not, right?

As we talked about the cross previously, what do you think Jesus was thinking or saying? It would probably be important, don't you think? Please turn in your Bible to Luke 23:24. Let's see what brother Luke has to say. He relates that Jesus said these words while hanging on that cross:

“Father forgive them, for they know not what they do. And they parted his garments and cast lots.”

There are two important points here. Jesus said “Forgive them, they don't know what they're doing.” Folks, many of the people you have been bitter against and unwilling to forgive, don't even know they did anything wrong to you. Holding this bitterness and unforgiveness in your heart only hurts you. It is also like a firewall between you and God. It's time to let it go once and for all.

It doesn't matter if it is an old friend, your parents, a pastor or a church. It doesn't matter how hurt you are over something. God wants you to be rid of anything that separates you from Him. Turn to God, my friends. Ask Him to supply you with His mercy and forgiveness and then extend that to the person that you feel has offended you so badly.

Also, even though Jesus forgave them, they still gambled away his clothes.....point made!! Forgiveness doesn't depend on how the person being forgiven behaves. Listen folks!! I know God is speaking to someone who will enter this online church service this week. God is extending his mercy and forgiveness to you. It is time to make it right. It is time to drop the burden.

I have to make a point at this time that you may not like. I would be doing you an injustice if I didn't give you this information. Please turn to Mark 11:25-26. Read carefully and thoughtfully. This is Jesus talking, do you think it is important to listen and act upon what Jesus has to say?

“And when you stand praying, forgive, if you have ought against any: that your Father also, which is in heaven, may forgive you your trespasses. But, if you do not forgive, neither will your Father, which is in heaven, forgive your trespasses.”

Seems like Jesus is pretty serious here, doesn't it? Well folks, I've done my part. This message is for someone to take to heart and act upon. Forgive and give mercy, unload the burden, be totally free, my friends.

God Bless you,

Bro. Bob

His Mercy Endures Forever

Well folks, can we all say “This is the day the Lord has made and we shall rejoice and be glad in it?”

Welcome to your online church 24/7, week long service. Remember, everyone is welcome in this place!

The Word of God is for everyone, my friends, even the people we may not like or understand. The Word of God knows no boundaries. It can reach into the hearts of unbelievers and yes, even the saints. God is not bound up by borders, cultures, race and many of the things that bother or distract us.

Thank you Lord, for your Son Jesus, that took the stripes on His back, died on the cross, but rose again that we might be saved, healed and filled with the Holy Ghost.

LET THE SERVICE BEGIN:

Let's start this service by praising God, remembering that God is good and His mercy endures forever. Refer to Psalm 136. Twenty-seven times in Psalm 136 the psalmist said, either God is good or His mercy endures forever. You know what - let's read it together.

PSALM 136 verse 1-2: “O give thanks unto the Lord; for he is good: for his mercy endureth forever. O give thanks unto the God of gods: (yes He is!) For his mercy endureth forever.”

v3-4: “O give thanks to the Lord of lords: for his mercy endureth forever. To him who alone doeth great wonders: for his mercy endureth forever."

(What wonders has God done in your life my saved friends? What wonders do you need in your life, my unsaved, non-believers?)

v5-6: “To him that by wisdom made the heavens: for his mercy endureth forever. To him that stretcheth out the earth above the waters: for his mercy endureth forever.”

v7-8: “To him that made great lights: for his mercy endureth forever. The sun to rule by day: for his mercy endureth forever.”

v9: “The moon and stars to rule by night: for his mercy endureth forever.”

(Can you see creation of the earth taking place? Not evolution as taught and understood by many.)

v10-11: “To him that smote Egypt in their firstborn: for his mercy endureth forever. And brought out Israel from among them: for his mercy endureth forever.”

(This tells us that all judgments poured on Egypt were a result of mercy. God could have destroyed all of Egypt at the beginning. He gave them chance after chance to repent, but to no avail.)

v12: “With a strong hand, and with a stretched out arm: for his mercy endureth forever.”

(God brought Israel out of bondage and despair, and is willing to do the same for you.)

v13-15: “To him which divided the Red Sea into parts: for his mercy endureth forever. And made Israel to pass through the midst of it: for his mercy endureth forever. But overthrew Pharaoh and his host (army) in the Red Sea: for his mercy endureth forever."

(Reminding the Jewish people what God did for them. Do you remember what God has done for you? If you do, you can easily say “For God is good and his mercy endureth forever!")

v16: “To him which led his people through the wilderness: for his mercy endureth forever."

(Do you feel you are in a wilderness today? God is ready to lead you through that wilderness to victory.)

v17-22: “To him which smote great kings: for his mercy endureth forever. And slew famous kings: for his mercy endureth forever. Sihon king of the Amorites: for his mercy endureth forever. And Og the king of Bashan: for his mercy endureth forever. And gave their land for an heritage: for his mercy endureth forever. Even an heritage unto Israel his servant: for his mercy endureth forever."

(These are all kings that tried to destroy Israel to no avail. I suggest kings and leaders in the Middle east take note.)

v23: “Who remembered us in our low estate: for his mercy endureth forever.”

(My friends, what low estate are you in - financial, health-wise, relationships, lonely, sad, grieving etc.? Our Heavenly Father remembers us in our low estate. Turn to Him for help and peace in your life.)

v24-26: “And has redeemed us from our enemies: for his mercy endureth forever. Who giveth food to all flesh: for his mercy endureth forever. O give thanks unto the God of heaven: for his mercy endureth forever.”

So my friends, let us stand and shout out loud: “My God is good, and his mercy endures forever!”

I remember our pastor, John Bulloch in Michigan, preaching and saying “God is good and his mercy endures forever!” He would say it over, over and over. After about five times, I would think “That's enough!” Then, after ten or fifteen times, I would think “Come on now, enough is enough!” But you know what? I get it now. When you are saved, filled with the Holy Ghost and on fire for Jesus, you can't say God is good and his mercy endures forever one or even two times – because it bubbles up from within you. With joy in your heart you will repeat your praise for God over and over and over again.

Thanks, Pastor Bulloch, for your perseverance and efforts to lead your people in praise to our Heavenly Father and his son, Jesus Christ. Thank you for influencing my wife Vicki, myself and our children to love God and to always give Him praise.

You know folks, this service is a little different than past services because it is all about praise and worship. The Spirit of God is moving in this place. We must put God above all things!! We have often put everything in our lives ahead of God: our jobs, our sports, our relationships, our desire for fame and riches.

In Matthew 16:26 Jesus addresses this by saying:

“For what is a man profited if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? Or what shall a man give in exchange for his own soul?”

Jesus has poured his mercy out to everyone that will accept it. It is up to you, my friends. What is more important in your life than your eternal soul? Nonbelievers, this is your chance!! Come to Jesus today. Give up your burdens, the sin in your life, the emptiness that plagues you and accept the salvation Jesus offers you today. READY? Jesus is ready to accept you into the family of God.

Repeat after me: “Jesus, I ask and accept you in my heart. I am sorry for my sins. I ask your forgiveness and pardon. I believe your are the Son of God, and I believe in my heart and confess with my mouth that you are Lord of my life. Thank you Lord, for saving me.” If you were sincere, you are now saved.

That's it folks!! Don't exchange your soul for anything or anyone. God loves you and wants you in the family.

I'm believing someone will come to Jesus this week. This is a strong message that offers God's mercy to all who will accept it. Believers - straying off the right track? Lost the zeal you once had? There is a remedy, my friend. Start NOW!! Put God first in your life again. Confess your sins before God and ask forgiveness. Begin to shout at the top of your lungs “God is good (and He is you know) and His mercy endures forever!” Now, accept His love and mercy and come back home. God bless you!

If you need prayer help, e-mail me at brotherbob@thespiritofwisdom.org. I will answer you back, I promise. God bless all of you that enter into this online church this week. This message is for you. You know that, don't you?

God bless you,


Bro. Bob

Staying in the Word - Part 2 (Lord, to whom shall we go?)

A personal note:

Our son, Pastor David, his wife Melissa, and two children, are leaving Sept 14th, on a mission trip to Nicaragua. Their mission is to train pastors of which many don't even have their own Bibles. They are going to train lay leaders, who will be a blessing to their local churches. They are going to train and inspire those, who might feel a call to ministry in one of the five fold gifts. And their desire is to impart faith, hope and love, so they can achieve their God-given destiny. We are asking everyone to please pray for them for the next forty five days. Please see prayer request located in right margin.

Now onto today's service...

Welcome to your online Church today. All are welcome in this place. Many of you are returning, and we are believing for the "first timers."

God will bless you with His anointed Word and preaching of the gospel of Jesus Christ.

As many of you know, this is a week long service, so tell your friends and relatives to tune in. If you have any comments, complaints, suggestions or praise reports please e-mail me at brotherbob@thespiritofwisdom.org or click on the comment link at the end of today's service. For those of you who are having trouble leaving comments, follow these steps:

1. Click on the underlined word "comments."
2. Where it says, "Comment as:" click on the down arrow and select "Name/URL"
3. Enter your name in the box (URL optional) and click "Continue."
4. Type your comment in the white box. When you are finished, click on the "Post Comment" button located below. Your comment will then appear below the service.

We also welcome all prayer requests and yes, we really do pray with and for you, and your loved ones.

I would also suggest you go back and read any prior services you missed. They will be a blessing to you. It would not hurt my believer friends to re-read them also. God has more for you than you can imagine.

Now, let the service begin.

Last week we ended the service by listening to Peter say to Jesus "Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words to eternal life." Here, read it again for yourselves:

"Then, said Jesus unto the twelve, will you also go away? Then Simon Peter answered him Lord to whom shall we go? Thou hast the words of eternal life."

(John 7:67-68)

At that point we concluded by stating that the Bible is the Word of God. The words to eternal life are in the book (Bible).

I guess the question to ask is - do you believe that conclusion or not? I am sensitive to the Spirit of God and I am aware that for many this has been a very difficult week - sickness, job losses, financial difficulties or let us just plain out say - not enough money to pay the bills, marriage problems, unruly and disobedient children, no peace in your mind, body or spirit, the depressing news on T.V., wars and on, and on and on. The question cries out!! Lord, to whom shall we go? We've been to doctors, we pleaded with our employers, we've talked to the bill collectors, we've talked with child psychologists, teachers and our children. There is no peace in your mind, body or spirit even though you turned to meditation, yoga, exercise, Oprah and Dr. Phil. You now realize no politicians, regardless of party affiliation, can solve your problems of life. So once again, as Peter said, "Lord to whom shall we go?"

The answer, my friends, is in the direction book of life, God's Word!! Turn to God now. Give your life to Him and begin to see His Word come alive and make a difference in your life. No one but Jesus has the answers to eternal life but Jesus. Like it or not, that is the way it is.

Christians, or as I prefer to call you, believers, let the Word of Christ dwell in you. You might say "Can that be?" Let's see what the Word of God says. Turn to Col. 3:16. Paul speaks by letter to a church admonishing them that Jesus is sufficient to provide all you need for salvation and in daily life. Now, Col. 3:16:

"Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing (correcting) one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord."

This will prepare you to live in this world in a way that will give you peace and the ability to handle your situations in a Godly manner.

Listen everyone, I and my family have gone, and are going through many of the same problems in life as you are. I am convinced Jesus is the only way to go. I will not, and I am asking you please, do not turn away from the Word of God. I guarantee, if you do turn away, it will get worse. Stay faithful my friends, as will I, and guess what, we will make it through it all together!

It is important, my friends, to just not read the Bible like a novel, but we must study the Word. Remember, it is the direction book for life. Please turn to 2nd Timothy 2:15-16. Let us read it together. Paul wrote a letter to Timothy to remain faithful to Christ. That is also good advice for us.

"Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. But shun profane and vain babblings, for they will increase unto more ungodliness."

(2nd Timothy 2:15-16)

WOW, how powerful are these scriptures?!! So much information in two verses.

1. Study to be approved by God.
2. Study so there will be no need for shame in your life.
3. Study to rightly divide the Word of God. This is so important because there is so much false teaching going around.
4. Shun all profane and vain babblings.
   

Ladies and gentleman, I don't care who preaches or teaches you the Bible, check it out for yourself. Be sensitive to God and you will be secure in your belief. I believe God is so good to give us these directions, don't you?

I sincerely hope this message on staying in the Word is a source of strength and hope for you. It is good to know there is spiritual help for us in our daily struggles. God's Word is quick and powerful to point out to us what is in our heart, good or bad. Please turn to Heb. 4:12.

"For the Word of God is quick and powerful and sharper than any two edged sword, piercing even unto the dividing asunder of soul and spirit. And of the joints and marrow and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart."

My translation: God's Word cuts us to the quick. Take heed and follow His Word to victory in your life. Can you now see how important it is to not only read, but to study the Word of God?

Well, now that we have learned how important it is to study and learn God's Word, what do we do with it? The answer, my friends, is in James 1:22-24. Please read with me:

"But, be ye doers of the Word and not hearers only, deceiving your ownselves. For, if any be a hearer of the Word, and not a doer, he is like a man beholding his natural face in a glass; for he beholdeth himself, and goeth his way, and straightway forgetteth what manner of man he was."

See how important being a doer of the Word is? If you study the Word, read the Word, talk the Word, but are not a doer of the Word, you will eventually walk away from God and forget the Godly person you had become. Please, I implore you, do not do that!! Become and stay a doer of the Word.

So, who is this Jesus, and why is the Word of God so important? Please turn to Rev. 19:11-13, 16. This is the vision God, our heavenly Father, gave John and he now relates it to us regarding Jesus. I would suggest reading the entire chapter of Revelations 19, but we will now read Rev. 19:11-13, 16. Get ready to shout everyone! This is John speaking:

"And I saw heaven opened, and behold a white horse; and He that sat upon him was called Faithful and True, and in righteousness He doth judge and make war. His eyes were as a flame of fire, and on His head were many crowns; and He had a name written, that no man knew, but He Himself. And He was clothed with a vesture dipped in blood; and His name is called the Word of God." (This is Jesus)

16: "And He hath on his vesture and on his thigh a name written King of Kings and Lord of Lords."

Yes, my brothers and sisters, Jesus is the King of Kings and the Lord of Lords and He is the Word of God. Glory to God, hallelujah and Amen!!

Conclusion: When you study the Word of God, you are reading Jesus Christ, King of Kings and Lord of Lords. On your mark - get set - ready? GO! Study the Word now and by all means stay in the Word and you will stay in Jesus.

God bless you!

Bro. Bob

Staying in the Word [Part 1]

Welcome to all that enters into this place. This is your online church, and as I always say, everyone is welcome here.

We welcome the Holy Spirit in this place. We ask for Gods anointing on all that transpires in this church service. We pray this will be a safe haven from all the insecurities, fears and burdens that you are facing in this world. We pray life and blessing in this place.

Do you need salvation from the burden of sin? Do you need healing in your body or your mind? Do you need peace in your mind, body, or spirit? Do you need the power to live a righteous life that is pleasing to God? Are you discouraged about life, the economy, bills, your job, your family life, your relationships or lack thereof?

My friends, we preach the answer to all these things. We preach Jesus Christ!!! We preach Jesus died on the cross as a substitute for us. We preach Jesus was buried (in a tomb) for three days. We preach that Jesus defeated the devil, and we preach that Jesus rose again from the dead to redeem our souls. We preach Jesus ascended back to Heaven where He sits at the right hand of the Father making intercession for us. We preach that by accepting Gods sacrifice for us (Jesus) that man can be saved, and become an adopted Son of God. We preach God will give us (His kids) Spiritual eyes to see and ears to hear. The Word of God will become alive to us and all the solutions to our problems of life can be understood and given over to God for a good resolution.

The Bible is God's direction book for life. This church teaches the "Word of God" and nothing else. Join with us, my friends, if you have not accepted Jesus Christ as your Lord and Saviour, do so today. If you have been born again but have lost the faith and walked away from God, turn around and come back home.


Today is the day to:

1. Acknowledge your sin
2. Turn from your sin
3. Turn to God for mercy and forgiveness
   

(That is repentance.)

Now: Believe in your heart and confess with your mouth, "Jesus is Lord." If you have done that, you are saved, and my returning Christian, you are back home in Gods loving arms, cleansed and set free. I am praising God for the new babe in Christ and for the one that has returned to serve and love God with all their might.

Let's turn to God's direction book for life (the Bible), Gods Word.

In case you haven't noticed....

The Service has begun!

The title of the message is... "Staying in the Word." One night while working a part time security job, I was watching T.V. I decided to turn the T.V. off and read the Bible. As I reached for my Bible, I said aloud to myself, (yes, sometimes I talk aloud to myself, don't you?) "Staying in the Word." I no sooner said that when the Spirit of God spoke to my spirit (not audible) "yes, that is right!! Stay in the Word." I was taken aback but I knew that was from God.

Why should we stay in the Word of God? Please turn to Matthew 4:4. This could also be found in Luke 4:4. Jesus was in the wilderness and had fasted for forty days and forty nights and I am sure he was very hungry. Satan (the tempter) came to him and said, "if thou be the Son of God command these stones be made bread. Jesus responded to him, in the scripture by saying:

"It is written man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God."
(Matthew 4:4)

What God is saying here is, His Word is more important than anything else in this world. It will provide everything we need to live for God. The Word of God provides power to us to overcome any obstacle. In Luke 4:32 (you don't need to turn there), it tells the story of how the people were astonished at His doctrine for His Word was with power. Yes, my friends!! God's Word is always full of power, and just think, God has given us His Word (the Bible) to read, use, and apply to today's problems in life.

It is very important we hold fast to the faithful Word of God, otherwise we could be led astray by the things of this world. We could even be deceived by the smooth-talking preachers that are preaching a false gospel for their own personal reputation or money, rather than preaching about the saving of souls, through the saving grace of Jesus, the Son of the living God.
You can refer to Titus 1:9-11 to back this statement up.

In the previous messages, I have preached about eternal life or death. Your choice, right?? Jesus was once talking to the multitudes (lots of people). He was very popular with them when He was preforming miracles, but this time He was preaching about who He was, and how the only way to the Father (God) was through Him. Almost all of the crowd was shocked at this and left Him alone with His disciples, even though what He told them was the truth. Many of the people that now turn their back on Jesus had once claimed belief in Him. Jesus turned to His twelve disciples and asked them, "will you also go away?" Please turn to John 7:67 and 7:68 for the answer Peter gave to him.

(v67)
"Then said Jesus unto the twelve 'will you also go away?'"

In other words, Jesus was asking them, "are you deserting me too?"

(v68)
"Then Simon Peter answered Him, Lord, to whom shall we go? Thou hast the words of eternal life."

There is the answer, my good people. Jesus has the words to eternal life. Where else can we go? The Bible is the Word of God. The words to eternal life is in the book (the Bible).

This concludes part 1 of "Staying in the Word." We will pick up with part 2 next week. You have my guarantee, you will be shocked and amazed at what is to be revealed!

God bless you,

Bro. Bob

IMPORTANT!!! The Spirit of God is impressing on me, that someone (a believer) will enter our church this week. You have walked away from God. Your situation in life is defeating you. You keep asking yourself, "where's God? I can't take this anymore! I feel like giving up, throwing in the towel, what is the use?" My brother or sister, God has instructed me to tell you that He loves you.

There is something that is not of God in your life. Fear, bitterness, unforgiveness (Spiritual Poison). I am not sure what it is, but you are, and so is God. Give it up, my brother or sister, return to the foot of the cross. Ask God to forgive you, to cleanse you, and to show you the solution to your problems. I know that He will!
Email me with your praise report. That will lift my burden for you and I will praise and thank God with you.

Dead Men Walking

Welcome to your online church service for this week. Everyone is welcome in this church. I emphasize everyone!!!

When Jesus died on that cross and rose again from the dead so that men could be saved and have eternal life with Him, it was without condition. Race, gender, poor, rich, sinner, and non-believer; Jesus paid the price for us all.

All that He asks of us is to accept his gift of salvation by believing on Him. By accepting His Son, Jesus into our hearts and lives, Gods desires will become our desires and life will take on a new and glorious meaning.

Refer once again to John 3:16 in your Bible.

"For God so loved the world He gave his only begotten Son that whosover beleiveth in Him should not perish but have everlasting life."

You get it?? God loves us and guess what? All He wants is for us to know Him, through His Son, Jesus, and to return that love back to Him. Please understand, you don't have to, but why wouldn't you?

WOW, that was not the way I was going to start today, but God definitely wants to reach someone through this week-long church service.......... is it you???

I do want to thank you for the great response to our online church. Thanks for praying for Vanessa. Let's believe together for a healing touch from God. We pray the brain tumor will shrink and dissipate completely......... Amen! Thank you Lord!!

NOW!! A point of clarification. Last week, I began the service by sharing that "Sometimes I have to ask God what exactly He wants me to share with you." My good and trusted friend, Pastor Harold Hamlin, in MI, and my wife Vicki, both pointed out, correctly I might add, we should always seek God before putting forth His Word, lest it be us sharing out of our "flesh" and not the Word of God. I agree with them. I should have been more clear in the point I was trying to make. I should have pointed out, there are times when you know exactly what God wants you to say. There are also times when you know God has something for you to share, but for whatever reason, you aren't exactly sure how to express it, or even what it really means. Therefore, you ask God for specifics and to help your understanding.

My desire is to always speak to you in truth and Spirit. That way, only "Words of Life" will be preached in this place.

Let the service begin!

Please turn in your Bibles (yes, you should have your Bibles with you!) to Mathew 22:31, 32.

"(v31) But as touching the resurrection of the dead, have ye not read that which was spoken unto you by God, saying (v32) I am the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob? God is not the God of the dead, but of the living."

I am so glad the Lord, by His Spirit, has just dropped the scripture that needs to be brought out here so the contrast between being alive spiritually and dead spiritually, that I am presenting, can be understood. Please turn with me to 2nd Cor. 5:14. Paul is talking to the believers at Corinth and made this statement:

"For the love of Christ constraineth us: because we thus judge that if one died for all, then were all dead."

The truth is, we were all dead spiritually after the fall of Adam and Eve but thank God He sent his Son to redeem us. Please turn to Ephesians 2:1-6. Paul was talking to the believers at Ephesus (by letter).

"(v1) And you have he quickened who were dead in trespasses and sins; (v2) wherein in time past ye walked, according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience. (v3) Among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lust of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh, and of the mind; and were by nature, the children of wrath, even as others. (v4) But God, who is rich in mercy, for His great love where-with He loved us. (v5) Even when we were dead in sins, has quickened us together with Christ, (by grace are ye saved;) (v6) And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus."

Do you see the contrast? ..... God is not the God of the dead but of the living, those that have accepted Christ as illustrated above.

Believers, this puts a high urgency of responsibility on us. We must understand we are walking among the living dead (Spiritually speaking). All around us, we see persons of high esteem and low esteem. Doctors, Lawyers, Actors, Engineers, TV Anchor Persons, men and women that are attractive in our eyes. Husbands, Wives, Children, all races and cultures and faiths, and they are dead Spiritually. I told you!! We are walking among the living dead.

There was a movie titled, "Dead Men Walking." A true story of a man on death row. When they were walking to the gas chamber, the guards would shout out, "dead man walking." All around us today, there are, "dead men and women walking," (Spiritually). We may be their last hope. God has commissioned us to be His witnesses on the Earth. How many of us remember the witness that led us to the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ, and brought us out of death unto the light? I remember a young hippie that got converted back in the "70's" that would not let me go. God put me on this young man's heart and mind and when I wouldn't listen to him talk to me about God anymore, he gave me a New Testament Bible. That gift was a part of my, eventually, coming to Christ. I remember a young lady telling me she didn't care what was in my Scientology book. It meant nothing!!! There were many others that told me the story of redemption. I was a dead man walking but because of their being faithful, I am now alive in Christ and sharing with you.

Listen to the Spirit of God and tell others the story of your redemption. Be a witness to those that are lost. Folks, we have to take off our judgmental hats and put on the hat of compassion, mercy, and love, that Christ has shown us.

All I am asking believers, is for you to give everyone the same chance you had. Someone told you about Jesus, someone witnessed to you how to come alive Spiritually in Jesus. Return the favor, my friends! Today is the day of salvation. Tell somebody about Jesus. Be the witness you are meant to be and pay it forward, my friends. Pay it forward!

God bless you,

Bro. Bob

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Before we conclude the service, I must ask if anyone feels the tug of the Holy Spirit, to give your life to God, through His son Jesus. If so, please confess aloud with your mouth and believe in your heart that Jesus is Lord and you shall be saved. Just say and mean in your heart, "Father I come to you in the name of your Son, Jesus. I ask you to forgive my sins and I give my heart and life to you. I confess and believe in my heart that Jesus is my Lord and saviour. I accept you, Jesus with all thanks giving." (Refer to Romans 10:9)

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Brother Bob is glad to receive any prayer requests, praise reports, or any comments you want to make, at Brotherbob@thespiritofwisdom.org. You're feedback is greatly appreciated!

Check in daily for any updates, prayer requests, and/or announcements.

Stir it up! [ Week #2]

Welcome to week #2 of your "online church." Everyone is welcome in this place. May God enlighten, inspire, and bless you during your visit here.

Lord, we pray to you today, asking you to bless this week-long service. Please allow your Holy Spirit to touch all that enter in. We ask you to save the lost, heal the sick, and set the captives free. Thank you, Lord, in Jesus' name we pray... Amen.

Let the service begin:

There are so many things to share with you that sometimes I just have to ask God, "what exactly do you want the people to receive from you today?" God (Our heavenly Father), loves us so much and has so much to give us, to help us, to encourage us, that each week, I believe that He will give us just what we need for today, and the week ahead.

I encourage you to read the Word of God (The Bible) for yourselves. God can and will reveal Himself to you in His word. The revealed truth of God is in the Bible, and it is there for you.

God has given the believers, those that have asked and accepted his Son, Jesus Christ, as Lord and saviour, eyes to see, and ears to hear (spiritually speaking). All non-believers, listen to me carefully now: our heavenly Father will do the same to you. Accept Jesus as Lord and saviour of your life and God's Word (the Bible) will come alive to you. I promise!!

Today, I will be talking to believers, but I want any non-believer to eavesdrop. I am asking the question, Who are we (Christians) and why are we here? It's time to take heed, my brothers and sisters in Christ. I am going to reveal the answer to the above question for you.

Turn with me in your Bible to 2nd Cor. 5:20. Let's read it together:

"Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ stead be reconciled to God."

My friends and fellow ambassadors, it is our mission to represent Jesus Christ and the Kingdom of Heaven here on Earth. Our citizenship, since receiving Christ and being born again, is the Kingdom of God. We are on this Earth in an official capacity. We are to reconcile others to God by presenting his Son, Jesus Christ, to them, that they may be set free from their burden of sin by receiving Jesus as their Lord and saviour.

One of the pitfalls ambassadors face, when serving their country or kingdoms, while living in a strange land for a long time, is they forget what country they are representing. They begin to align themselves with the country they are there to influence, thereby rendering themselves useless and ineffective to the Kingdom they are supposed to represent. Is that the kind of ambassador you desire to be? Hopefully not!!!

Ladies and gentleman, I have often said, "there is NO such thing as 'dual citizenship' in the Kingdom of God." Either you are a citizen in the Kingdom of God or you are a citizen in this world's kingdom. Please stay true to God and represent Christ well. So, fellow ambassadors, let's shake off the dust, the cobwebs, and the apathy, off of ourselves and bring the joy of serving the great and loving God back to our heart and being.

"Well, that sounds great, Brother Bob, but how do we do that?" I'm glad you asked!! Break up your fallow ground, my friends. Please refer to and read Jeremiah 4:3

"For thus saith the Lord to the men of Judah and the men of Jerusalem. Break up your fallow ground and sew not among thorns."

Fallow ground is portrayed as unattended land, thorns, thickets, and such. Sometimes, our spirit is like fallow ground: not used, thorny, and not willing to take in seed. The very seed that is sown to the Word of God, and yes, even right here at this online church every Sunday.

The way you clean up fallow ground is to rake it, like raking up grass, or brush. The Spirit of God is saying, "Rake up your Spirit." Stir up what God has put in you through His Word.

I say, by the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, stir it up!! We are waiting for God to stir something up in us, while the Spirit of God, is saying it is there already. Stir it up yourself! Plow up that fallow ground. Let God's Word grow up in your spirit, so you can be that witness (ambassador) you are meant to be.

When you have cleansed your spirit, you will not be ashamed of the gospel. (Refer to Romans 1:16)

"For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ; for it is the power of God unto salvation to EVERYONE that believeth, to the Jew first, and also to the Greek."

Then the Spirit of God will show you how to look past long hair, tattoos, piercings, drunkards, adulterers, gamblers, etc. Remember, God doesn't look on the outside, but upon the heart. The Gospel may be hid from them. What?? You don't think the Gospel could be hid??

Let's turn together to 2nd Cor. 4:3-4:

"But if our Gospel be hid, it is hid from the lost. And whom the god of this world has blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them."

Be a light! Reconcile them to God and watch them grow in freedom, love, and the mercy and grace of God, as will you, my good ambassador of Christ.

My unbelieving friends, if you have met an ambassador of Christ, it is because God loves you and wants you in His Kingdom. What is your answer to God today?

God bless you all,

Brother Bob

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Before we conclude the service, I must ask if anyone feels the tug of the Holy Spirit, to give your life to God, through His son Jesus. If so, please confess aloud with your mouth and believe in your heart that Jesus is Lord and you shall be saved. Just say and mean in your heart, "Father I come to you in the name of your Son, Jesus. I ask you to forgive my sins and I give my heart and life to you. I confess and believe in my heart that Jesus is my Lord and saviour. I accept you, Jesus with all thanks giving." (Refer to Romans 10:9)

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A very special prayer request

We have received a very special prayer request. I am asking each one who enters this site, to pray for Vanessa. She has a brain tumor and needs our prayers. Vanessa, I am praying and asking God to heal you. I am asking the Lord to give you peace in your mind, body, and spirit. I am asking all those that will pledge to pray for Vanessa everyday, for the next thirty days, to email me: brotherbob@thespirirofwisdom.org. This is what church is all about! Praying and asking God for his help for others. God bless you, Vanessa. Feel free to email Brother Bob at anytime for prayer or to answer any question you may have.

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A couple of personal notes from Brother Bob...

Congratulations to my beautiful niece in Gaylord, MI. Yesterday, she married Stephen Ching. I am very happy for both of them. Shawna, I love you very much. Aunt Vicki and myself pray for Gods' most abundant blessings on you and your husband, Stephen. Allow me to give you some "Uncle Bob" advice. Always make God the center piece of your marriage. Always keep loving each other and make this a commitment to each other, that this marriage and love will be forever, no matter what. Stay true and faithful to each other and enjoy your life together. We love you!

I also want to send out "Happy Birthday" wishes to my neice in Baton Rouge, LA. Amy, your Uncle Bob and Aunt Vicki love you very much. I am praying for Gods blessing on you, Amy. Enjoy the day and may this be the best year ever for you. Remember, everyone should have an Uncle Bob! LOL!

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Brother Bob is glad to receive any prayer requests, praise reports, or any comments you want to make, at Brotherbob@thespiritofwisdom.org. You're feedback is greatly appreciated!

Check in daily for any updates, prayer requests, and/or announcements.