Benefits of reading the bible. Why should I read the bible? Why should I study?

Someone asked me: “Why do you read the bible?” I didn’t know how to respond, the question got me off guard.  I’ve never been asked a question like that.   They laughed and thought it was funny that I bothered reading the bible.  I was silent, but in my mind were millions of reasons I read the bible but I just couldn’t put it into words.
How can I explain the wonders, the joy, and the power of the Word of God?   I decided I would search the scriptures so I would be ready next time someone asks- why do you bother reading the bible?

 “ Then we will no longer be immature like children. We won’t be tossed and blown about by every wind of new teaching. We will not be influenced when people try to trick us with lies so clever they sound like the truth.” Eph 4:14

Why should we study the scriptures?
Why should we seek Him?

For I am always thinking of your laws. I meditate on them day and night. I write to you who are God’s children because you know the Father, I have written to you who are mature in the faith because you know Christ, who existed from the beginning. I have written to you whoa re young in the faith because you are strong. God’s word lives in your hearts and you have won your battle with the evil one. 1 John 2:14

 My Exhausting Study of why I study. 🙂

Taken from Scripture, here are just a few of the benefits of continuing to study, obey, and meditate on the Word of God

1. Revives me Ps 119:50-52, Ps 19:7-11
2. Brings me joy Ps 119:50-52
3. Comforts me in my distress Isaiah 51:12, Ps 23. Ps 119
4. Gives me Hope Luke 10:22
5. Refines me Ps 52
6. Gives me life Ps 119:28,  Job 4:3-6
7. Teaches me tPs 119:36
8. Encourages me he Lord’s will Eph 3
9. It is the mirror to my life 1 James 23-25
10. Keeps me standing firm and unshakable in my trials Luke 46:46, Jer 17:7. prov 1:33
11. Blesses me as I live according to it (obedience) James 1:22
12. Power to save my soul James 1:21
13. Teaches me the fear of the Lord- which is the beginning of all wisdom Is66:2. Pr. 9:10. Pr. 111:10 Deut 17:19
14. Leads me along the path that is true and right Hosea 14:9. Ps119:101
15. shows me my sins- pierces my heart Act 2:37
16. Always brings forth fruit and produces a great harvest in our life when we cling to His Word Luke 8:15, Is 55:10
17. keeps me from stumbling Ps 119:65, Prov 6:21
18. Helps us teach what is true 2 Tim 3:16, Hebrews 4:12
19. Shows me all the great and precious promises He has given us. 2Peter 2:1-3
20. Helps me escape the world’s corruption through His Promises which enable me to share His divine nature  2 Peter 1:4
21. Shows me what is wrong in my life 2 Tim 3:15
22. Corrects me when I am wrong and teaches me to do right 2 Tim 3:16
23. Prepares and equips God’s people to every good work 2 Tim 3:17
24. Keeps me from drifting away, keeps me from backsliding Heb 2:1
25. keeps me from sinning ps119:11-15
26. helps me stay pure Ps 119:8
27. It exposes our innermost thoughts and desires.Romans 1:16,
28. Teaches me wisdom and understanding
29. Reminds me how I should live – forgiving others, loving, getting rid of bitterness,
30. Rids me of my shameful ways – like a sword piercing through bone and marrow Hebrews 4:12
31. Brings success, prosperity  Joshua 1:8,Ps 1:2-3, Jer 17:7-8
32. We live by every word from the mouth of God Matthew 4:4
33. Helps me stand firm in my trials Ps 1:2-3,Luke 6:46, Jer 17:7-8 Rom 5:3-4, Js 1
34. His gracious hand is upon those who study, obey and teach the Word Ezra 7:0
35. Reminds me to repent
36. Gives understanding: the more we study and read, the more understanding He gives us Mat 13:12, Eph 3:3-5
37. Discernment between right and wrong teachings and knowing the difference between truth and those who teach from their false imaginations–so I won’t be tossed to and fro by the waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by human cunning, by craftiness in deceitful schemes Eph 4;14, Ez 13:17 “Now, son of man, speak out against the women who prophesy from their own imaginations. Ephesians 4:14
38. My Sword: Helps me in spiritual warfare, it is my sword of truth in battle, my weapon- the sword, which is the Word of God. Eph 6:17
39. It is the Power of God at work, it is alive and powerful and never comes back void, it burns like a fire in my heart Is 55:10-11, R. 1:16, Heb. 4:12, Jer 20:9
40. His Word accomplishes everything He wants it to Is 55:10-11
41. Shows me how the Lord wants me to live and obey His Words Rev 22:7
42. Source of understanding as I keep searching to understand Him and know Him
43. Increases Faith : Builds my faith Romans 10:17
44. Makes me wiser than my enemies Ps 119:98-99
45. Gives me more insight than my teachers Ps 119:98-99
46. Helps me abandon my shameful ways Ps 119:38
47. Stirs my Spirit
48. Teaches me how to live
49. Opens my eyes to what I need to know
50. Reminds me to teach my children Deut 6:5-9, Deut 32:46, prov 4:4
51. Tells me where I have gone wrong
52. God speaks to me through His Word
53. To know and understand the Warnings He’s given us Malachi 2:2
54. Helps me in prayer! “ if you remain in me and my words remain in you, you may ask for anything you want, and it will be granted!” Claim His Promises
55. Lifts me up when I am discouraged Job 4;3-6
56. Reminds me to be strong and courageous for Him Joshua 1
57. Warns me to stay on the right path and listen Heb 12:25
58. Instructs me
59. Teaches me how to live a holy life John 17:17
60. Salvation-The Power of God at word, saving everyone who believes the Good News about Christ- the Jew first and also the Gentile Romans 1:16, 1 Peter1:23, Phil 2:16, Acts 7:38 John 6:68
61. Gives me life, they are not empty words- they are life! John 6:68, Matt 13:22, Deut 32:47, Prov 4:4
62. How we get faith – from hearing the Word- need more faith? Read His Word Rom 10:17
63. His Words bless me Rev 1:3
64. Teaches me the truth and the truth sets me free John 8:31
65. Warns me of times ahead
66. Prepares me for persecution and rejection from others
67. Keeps my heart strong for Him while battling adversity
68. Fills our heart and mind with Godly wisdom and knowledge.
69. It is what the Lord expects us to do- “Haven’t you read the Scriptures” the Lord Jesus asked this 6x in Mathew and 3x in Mark
70. Sets me free James 1:22-25
71. keeps me from being proud Deut 17:20
72. Prevents me from turning away from his commands, even in the smallest way Deut 17:21
73. Teaches me to live a blameless life so I may worship in His Sanctuary Ps 15:1

 Hear the Word of the Lord:

             Your promise revives me; it comforts me in all my troubles. I meditate on your age-old regulations; O Lord, they comfort me. Don’t just listen to God’s word. You must do what it says. Otherwise, you are only fooling yourselves.  For if you listen to the word and don’t obey, it is like glancing at your face in a mirror.  You see yourself, walk away, and forget what you look like.  But if you look carefully into the perfect law that sets you free, and if you do what it says and don’t forget what you heard, then God will bless you for doing it. How can a young person stay pure? By obeying your word. I have tried hard to find you— don’t let me wander from your commands. I have hidden your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you. I praise you, O Lord; teach me your decrees. I have recited aloud all the regulations you have given us. I have rejoiced in your laws as much as in riches. I will study your commandments and reflect on your ways. I will delight in your decrees and not forget your word (Ps 119:7-16, Ps 119:50-52, James 1:22-25, Ps 119:2)

For the gracious hand of his God was on him. This was because Ezra had determined to study and obey the Law of the Lord and to teach those decrees and regulations to the people of Israel. Ezra 7:10

Instructions from Deuteronomy: He must always keep that copy with him and read it daily as long as he lives. That way he will learn to fear the Lord his God by obeying all the terms of these instructions and decrees.  This regular reading will prevent him from becoming proud and acting as if he is above his fellow citizens. It will also prevent him from turning away from these commands in the smallest way. And it will ensure that he and his descendants will reign for many generations in Israel. Deut. 17: 18-21

  Study this Book of Instruction continually. Meditate on it day and night so you will be sure to obey everything written in it. Only then will you prosper and succeed in all you do. This is my command—be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”

PROMISE: “The Lord your God will then make you successful in everything you do. He will give you many children and numerous livestock, and he will cause your fields to produce abundant harvests, for the Lord will again delight in being good to you as he was to your ancestors.  The Lord your God will delight in you if you obey his voice and keep the commands and decrees written in this Book of Instruction, and if you turn to the Lord your God with all your heart and soul.“This command I am giving you today is not too difficult for you to understand, and it is not beyond your reach. Duet 30: 9-11

Listen to Him

 Anyone who belongs to God listens gladly to the words of God. But you don’t listen because you don’t belong to God.” So we must listen very carefully to the truth we have heard, or we may drift away from it. Be careful that you do not refuse to listen to the One who is speaking. Seek the LORD while you can find him. Call on him now while he is near. To those who listen to my teaching, more understanding will be given, and they will have an abundance of knowledge. But for those who are not listening, even what little understanding they have will be taken away from them.  Matthew 13:11-13, John 8:47, Heb 2:1, Heb 12:25, Rev 1:3, is 55:6

Remain in His Word: But if you remain in me and my words remain in you, you may ask for anything you want, and it will be granted!  Ps 119:10, John 15:7, 1Peter1:25, Ps 119:28

Delight in the Law. Meditate on it Day and Night: But they delight in the law of the Lord, meditating on it day and night. They are like trees planted along the riverbank, bearing fruit each season. Their leaves never wither, and they prosper in all they do. Study this Book of Instruction continually. Meditate on it day and night so you will be sure to obey everything written in it. Only then will you prosper and succeed in all you do. The instructions of the Lord are perfect, reviving the soul.The decrees of the Lord are trustworthy, making wise the simple. The commandments of the Lord are right, bringing joy to the heart. The commands of the Lord are clear, giving insight for living. Reverence for the Lord is pure,lasting forever. The laws of the Lord are true; each one is fair. They are more desirable than gold, even the finest gold. They are sweeter than honey, even honey dripping from the comb. They are a warning to your servant, a great reward for those who obey them Joyful are those who obey his laws and search for him with all their hearts. Ps 119:2, Ps 1:1-3, Josh 1:8, Ps 19:7-11 

Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path. Those who love your instructions have great peace and do not stumble.119:65. 105

 ⁴ But Jesus told him, “No! The Scriptures say, People do not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.’ I will show you what it’s like when someone comes to me, listens to my teaching, and then follows it.  It is like a person building a house who digs deep and lays the foundation on solid rock. When the floodwaters rise and break against that house, it stands firm because it is well built. ⁴⁹ But anyone who hears and doesn’t obey is like a person who builds a house without a foundation. When the floods sweep down against that house, it will collapse into a heap of ruins.” Luke 6:46-49, matt 4:4

¹ Jesus said to the people who believed in him, “You are truly my disciples if you remain faithful to my teachings. ³² And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” But if you remain in me and my words remain in you, you may ask for anything you want, and it will be granted! John 15:7, John 8:31

 ¹⁶ All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. ¹God uses it to prepare and equip his people to do every good work. For I am not ashamed of this Good News about Christ. It is the power of God at work, saving everyone who believes—the Jew first and also the Gentile. Put on salvation as your helmet, and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. For the word of God is alive and powerful. It is sharper than the sharpest two-edged sword, cutting between soul and spirit, between joint and marrow. It exposes our innermost thoughts and desires.Romans 1:16, Eph 6:17, Heb 4:122 Tim 3:16

 He must always keep that copy with him and read it daily as long as he lives. That way he will learn to fear the Lord his God by obeying all the terms of these instructions and decrees. D 17:9

My heart is broken because of the false prophets, and my bones tremble. I stagger like a drunkard, like someone overcome by wine, because of the holy words the Lord has spoken against them.

 

“Let God’s curse fall on anyone, including us or even an angel from heaven, who preaches a different kind of Good News than the one we preached to you.” Galations 1

Those who have ears….listen

Let God’s curse fall on anyone, including us or even an angel from heaven, who preaches a different kind of Good News than the one we preached to you.  I say again what we have said before: If anyone preaches any other Good News than the one you welcomed, let that person be cursed (Gal1:6-10)

Dear friends, do not believe everyone who claims to speak by the Spirit. You must test them to see if the spirit they have comes from God. For there are many false prophets in the world.1j4;1

         I am shocked that you are turning away so soon from God, who called you to himself through the loving mercy of Christ. You are following a different way that pretends to be the Good News  but is not the Good News at all. You are being fooled by those who deliberately twist the truth concerning Christ.

 Let God’s curse fall on anyone, including us or even an angel from heaven, who preaches a different kind of Good News than the one we preached to you.  I say again what we have said before: If anyone preaches any other Good News than the one you welcomed, let that person be cursed.   Obviously, I’m not trying to win the approval of people, but of God. If pleasing people were my goal, I would not be Christ’s servant.

 I am surprised and astonished that you are so quickly turning renegade and deserting Him Who invited and called you by the grace of Christ and that you are transferring your allegiance to a different [even an opposition] gospel.  Not that there is or could be any other genuine Gospel, but there are some who are troubling and disturbing and bewildering you with a different kind of teaching which they offer as a gospel and want to pervert and distort the Gospel of Christ into something which it absolutely is not. But even if we or an angel from heaven should preach to you a gospel contrary to and different from that which we preached to you, let him be accursed.  As we said before, so I now say again: If anyone is preaching to you a gospel different from or contrary to that which you received [from us], let him be accursed  Now am I trying to win the favor of men, or of God? Do I seek to please men? If I were still seeking popularity with men, I should not be a bond servant of Christ (AMPLIFIED)

DO NOT HAPPILY PUT UP WITH WHATEVER ANYONE TELLS YOU-EVEN IF THEY PREACH A DIFFERENT JESUS ….

    You happily put up with whatever anyone tells you, even if they preach a different Jesus than the one we preach, or a different kind of Spirit than the one you received, or a different kind of gospel than the one you believed. 

          I hope you will put up with a little more of my foolishness. Please bear with me. For I am jealous for you with the jealousy of God himself. I promised you as a pure bride to one husband—Christ. But I fear that somehow your pure and undivided devotion to Christ will be corrupted, just as Eve was deceived by the cunning ways of the serpent.  You happily put up with whatever anyone tells you, even if they preach a different Jesus than the one we preach, or a different kind of Spirit than the one you received, or a different kind of gospel than the one you believed. 2 Corinthians 11:4-

   DON’T ALLOW OTHER TEACHINGS TO CONFUSE YOU

This false teaching is like a little yeast that spreads through the whole batch of dough!  I am trusting the Lord to keep you from believing false teachings. God will judge that person, whoever he is, who has been confusing you. Gal 5:9-10

  WATCH OUT THAT YOU DO NOT LOSE WHAT HAS BEEN WORKED FOR….. 

 I say this because many deceivers, who do not acknowledge Jesus Christ as coming in the flesh, have gone out into the world. Any such person is the deceiver and the antichrist. Watch out that you do not lose what we have worked for, but that you may be rewarded fully. Anyone who runs ahead and does not continue in the teaching of Christ does not have God; whoever continues in the teaching has both the Father and the Son. If anyone comes to you and does not bring this teaching, do not take them into your house or welcome them.  Anyone who welcomes them shares in their wicked work. 2 john 1:7-11

THERE ARE FALSE TEACHERS AMONG US

But there were false prophets also among the people, even as there shall be false teachers among you, who privily shall bring in damnable heresies, even denying the Lord that bought them, and bring upon themselves swift destruction. And many shall follow their pernicious ways; by reason of whom the way of truth shall be evil spoken of.  And through covetousness shall they with feigned words make merchandise of you ( In their greed they will make up clever lies to get hold of your money): whose judgment now of a long time lingereth not, and their damnation slumbereth not.2 peter 2:1-3

DO NOT ADD OR SUBTRACT ANYTHING FROM HIS COMMANDS

    And now, Israel, listen carefully to these decrees and regulations that I am about to teach you. Obey them so that you may live, so you may enter and occupy the land that the Lord, the God of your ancestors, is giving you.  Do not add to or subtract from these commands I am giving you. Just obey the commands of the Lord your God that I am giving you.“So be careful to obey all the commands I give you. You must not add anything to them or subtract anything from them. Deut 4:1-2,12:32

 AGAIN WE ARE TOLD- DO NOT TOLERATE FALSE TEACHING

“I know that you live in the city where Satan has his throne, yet you have remained loyal to me. You refused to deny me even when Antipas, my faithful witness, was martyred among you there in Satan’s city.  “But I have a few complaints against you. You tolerate some among you whose teaching is like that of Balaam, who showed Balak how to trip up the people of Israel. He taught them to sin by eating food offered to idols and by committing sexual sin.  In a similar way, you have some Nicolaitans among you who follow the same teaching.  Repent of your sin, or I will come to you suddenly and fight against them with the sword of my mouth.

 “Anyone with ears to hear must listen to the Spirit and understand what he is saying to the churches. Rev 2:13-17

LOOK! HE IS COMING SOON

 Let the one who is doing harm continue to do harm; let the one who is vile continue to be vile; let the one who is righteous continue to live righteously; let the one who is holy continue to be holy.”

 “Look, I am coming soon, bringing my reward with me to repay all people according to their deeds.  I am the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last, the Beginning and the End.”  Blessed are those who wash their robes. They will be permitted to enter through the gates of the city and eat the fruit from the tree of life.  Outside the city are the dogs—the sorcerers, the sexually immoral, the murderers, the idol worshipers, and all who love to live a lie.

 “I, Jesus, have sent my angel to give you this message for the churches. I am both the source of David and the heir to his throne. I am the bright morning star.”

BE CAREFUL WITH THE TEACHINGS YOU HEAR AND TEST THEM WITH SCRIPTURE

 The Spirit and the bride say, “Come.” Let anyone who hears this say, “Come.” Let anyone who is thirsty come. Let anyone who desires drink freely from the water of life.  And I solemnly declare to everyone who hears the words of prophecy written in this book: If anyone adds anything to what is written here, God will add to that person the plagues described in this book.  And if anyone removes any of the words from this book of prophecy, God will remove that person’s share in the tree of life and in the holy city that are described in this book.

He who is the faithful witness to all these things says, “Yes, I am coming soon!”
Amen! Come, Lord Jesus!
May the grace of the Lord Jesus be with God’s holy people
 If anyone does not love the Lord, that person is cursed. Our Lord, come!
May the grace of the Lord Jesus be with you.
My love to all of you in Christ Jesus 1 cor 16:22-24, Rev 22,1john 4

REMEMBER YOUR FIRST LOVE

²⁶ Dear friends, if we deliberately continue sinning after we have received knowledge of the truth, there is no longer any sacrifice that will cover these sins. ²⁷ There is only the terrible expectation of God’s judgment and the raging fire that will consume his enemies. ²⁸ For anyone who refused to obey the law of Moses was put to death without mercy on the testimony of two or three witnesses. ²⁹ Just think how much worse the punishment will be for those who have trampled on the Son of God, and have treated the blood of the covenant, which made us holy, as if it were common and unholy, and have insulted and disdained the Holy Spirit who brings God’s mercy to us. ³⁰ For we know the one who said,

“I will take revenge. I will pay them back.” He also said, “The Lord will judge his own people.”

³¹ It is a terrible thing to fall into the hands of the living God.  Think back on those early days when you first learned about Christ.^[j] Remember how you remained faithful even though it meant terrible suffering. ³³ Sometimes you were exposed to public ridicule and were beaten, and sometimes you helped others who were suffering the same things. ³⁴ You suffered along with those who were thrown into jail, and when all you owned was taken from you, you accepted it with joy. You knew there were better things waiting for you that will last forever.

³⁵ So do not throw away this confident trust in the Lord. Remember the great reward it brings you! ³⁶ Patient endurance is what you need now, so that you will continue to do God’s will. Then you will receive all that he has promised.

³⁷ “For in just a little while, the Coming One will come and not delay. And my righteous ones will live by faith. But I will take no pleasure in anyone who turns away.”  But we are not like those who turn away from God to their own destruction. We are the faithful ones, whose souls will be saved. Heb 10:24-29

1 John 4

He who is the faithful witness to all these things says, “Yes, I am coming soon!”
Amen! Come, Lord Jesus!
May the grace of the Lord Jesus be with God’s holy people
 If anyone does not love the Lord, that person is cursed. Our Lord, come!
May the grace of the Lord Jesus be with you.
My love to all of you in Christ Jesus

Put on the Shoes of Peace. Ephesians 6:13 : Weapons of warfare

Put on your shoes of Peace –Your armor….And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace. For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News so that you will be fully prepared.Eph 6:15

 Protect yourself against the schemes, traps and wiles of the enemy

    Before I show you what the Lord showed me about our armor, I have a message for some of you : You have been anointed, now act like it…if this speaks to you, here is more: The enemy is after you and has laid out many traps ahead.  Stay focused on the Lord and cling to Him, do not depart.

 Okay, on to the shoes of peace. To be honest, when I studied this armor stuff I didn’t quite understand it, okay the basic teaching maybe, but I had a lot of questions, and I asked..continually.and one by one the Lord began to teach me. I’d say–shoes? How does that relate to the preparation of the gospel? I thought this had something to do with this verse:

 Isaiah 52:7  How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of the messenger who brings good news, the good news of peace and salvation, the news that the God of Israel reigns! And having shod your feet in preparation [to face the enemy with the firm-footed stability, the promptness, and the readiness produced by the good news] of the Gospel of peace (amplified)

    So I kind of disregarded the shoes, I figured, I’m not on a mountain, and I’m not a missionary – so maybe it’s not for me…. until one day in church, the Holy Spirit spoke to me.  I was standing next to someone who really annoyed me. I remember standing there mad as those around me sang their praise, I stood and told the Lord how annoyed I was (and it was because I wasn’t getting my own way). I immediately heard “put on your shoes of peace”. I knew instantly that I was to make peace, control myself, change my attitude and be quiet. I just knew, however, I really didn’t want to do that, I would have much rather done something else.  I obeyed, and I regret that I didn’t obey with a good attitude. The Lord supernaturally blessed me that day with many blessings as I walked in obedience. I understood that the shoes of peace are so much more than we can imagine. 

“How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of the messenger who brings good news, the good news of peace and salvation, the news that the God of Israel reigns”  Maybe I now understand that my life is my testimony and the way I behave sends out a message of the good news of Jesus Christ, my Lord and Savior.

The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life; and he that wins souls is wise Prov 11:30

     I am so excited about this new key to protection I have discovered as I studied our armor and warfare… it seems so simple, yet it is so powerful. And this is what I have discovered: Peace is a protector, Peace protects us, (and this peace if from the Lord) it closes a door to the enemy. There is a supernatural link and key between peace and righteousness (right living) that protects those who fear the Lord.

  If you want protection from your enemy and his traps, you must live your life in obedience. Always searching and working hard to maintain a peaceful life in all circumstances and living a life of righteousness and right living. This peace is a gift and a blessing given to you from the Lord God and His Son Jesus.

     ( fyi: There are many messages with truth about the shoes- however, I am specifically focusing on the power and protection of the blessing of the shoes of Peace the Lord gives. AND there is a difference between the peace the world offers and peace the Lord gives us.  Living in peace that the Lord Jesus has given us doesn’t give us an excuse not to stand up for truth or fight for righteousness- this we must do. Speak up for justice and righteousness,  in love. Peace the Lord gives is real and true peace, it is our protection and much more.)

 Righteousness + Peace = Supernatural Protection
Right living in obedience + being a peacemaker = God’s supernatural protection  for us from enemy attacks

      Its true! Righteousness and Peace have kissed each other:   Mercy and truth are met together; righteousness and peace have kissed each other. Truth shall spring out of the earth; and righteousness shall look down from heaven. Righteousness shall go before him; and shall set us in the way of his steps. Ps 85:10-13

  Do you see the connection between peace and right living –and it’s all intertwined like a puzzle as we study our armor. Peace (shoes) and Righteousness (breastplate) need to be worn at all times, we can’t have one without the other. Notice the righteousness in the verse above goes before him AND SHALL SET US IN THE WAY OF HIS STEPS. Righteousness and peace protect us, keep us on God’s path and set us in the way of His steps. Okay, can you tell I’m so excited about this!  For right now, I want to dive deeper into peace and then righteousness another time because there is much to learn about this peace- our shoes we put on with the preparation of the gospel of peace.

What happens when we listen to His commands? We will have peace and righteousness!  Isaiah 48:18Oh, that you had listened to my commands! Then you would have had peace flowing like a gentle river and righteousness rolling over you like waves in the sea.

How can we reap a harvest of righteousness? By being peacemakers James 3:18And those who are peacemakers will plant seeds of peace and reap a harvest of righteousness

What does righteousness bring?  Isaiah 32:17And this righteousness will bring peace. Yes, it will bring quietness and confidence forever.

More on Peace and Righteousness:  For this Melchizedek, king of Salem, priest of the Most High God, met Abraham returning from the slaughter of the kings and blessed him, ² and to him Abraham apportioned a tenth part of everything. He is first, by translation of his name, king of righteousness, and then he is also king of Salem, that is, king of peace.  He is without father or mother or genealogy, having neither beginning of days nor end of life, but resembling the Son of God he continues a priest forever Heb 7:1-3

Am I making sense? You see, if we live right, obey God and work hard for peace- this gives us protection. Think about it this way. Imagine you are really upset or angry with someone. If you obey God’s word and work at peace and forgive as the Lord has told us to, the enemy has no open door to come in and bother you. However, if you lose control and say things you don’t want to – watch out because sin is waiting at the door for an opportunity to take over and master you.  Obedience pays off, the Lord’s words don’t fail, surely we reap what we sow.

Be prepared. You’re up against far more than you can handle on your own. Truth, righteousness, peace, faith, and salvation are more than words. Learn how to apply them. You’ll need them throughout your life. God’s Word is an indispensable weapon. In the same way, prayer is essential in this ongoing warfare. Pray hard and long. Pray for your brothers and sisters. Keep your eyes open. Keep each other’s spirits up so that no one falls behind or drops out. Message version of Eph 6:13-18

Rewards of Peace:
Proof! Peace protects us.

1. Protection and Peace come from the Lord Jeremiah 16:5
2. Following God’s commands gives you the ability to endure the pressures and go in peace Exodus 18:23
3. God’s peace protects us on every side 1 Kings 5:4
4. Submit to God and you will have peace, then things will go well for you Job 22:21 (Submit to God and the enemy will flee)
5. He brings me to His rest, it is not on my own power Psalm 23:2
6. Want peace?  Search for it and work to maintain it. Keep your tongue from speaking evil and your lips from telling lies. Ps 29
7. Peace is a blessing from the Lord.The Lord watches over all who do right and he hears their cries  Psalm 29:11The LORD gives his people strength. The LORD blesses them with peace. Come, my children, and listen to me, and I will teach you to fear the Lord. Does anyone want to live a life that is long and prosperous? Then keep your tongue from speaking evil and your lips from telling lies!
8.  Peace takes effort on your part- you have to search for it and maintain it . Turn away from evil and do good. Search for peace, and work to maintain it. The eyes of the Lord watch over those who do right; his ears are open to their cries for help. But the Lord turns his face against those who do evil; he will erase their memory from the earth. The Lord hears his people when they call to him for help. He rescues them from all their troubles. The Lord is close to the brokenhearted; he rescues those whose spirits are crushed. The righteous person faces many troubles, but the Lord comes to the rescue each time. For the Lord protects the bones of the righteous; not one of them is broken! Calamity will surely overtake the wicked, and those who hate the righteous will be punished.²² But the Lord will redeem those who serve him. No one who takes refuge in him will be condemned.
9. A wonderful future awaits those who love Peace. Psalm 37:37 Look at those who are honest and good, for a wonderful future awaits those who love peace I listen carefully to what God the Lord is saying,  for he speaks peace to his faithful people. But let them not return to their foolish ways. Surely his salvation is near to those who fear him,  so our land will be filled with his glory. Ps 85
10. Fear of the Lord + Right living + Peace = Supernatural protection Ps 85
11. Righteousness + Peace = staying on God’s path Ps 85
12. Unfailing love and truth have met together.  Righteousness and peace have kissed! Ps 85
13. Peace is given to those who love the Lord’s instructions and it will keep them from stumbling. Psalm 119:165
14. Planning peace fills a heart with joy, plotting evil fills a heart with deceit Pr 12:20
15. Peace brings health: Proverbs 14:30A peaceful heart leads to a healthy body; jealousy is like cancer in the bones.
16. You can have peace with your enemies when you live your life to please the Lord:Proverbs 16:7When people’s lives please the LORD, even their enemies are at peace with them.
17. The Lord’s teaching brings Peace upon our childrenIsaiah 54:13I will teach all your children, and they will enjoy great peace.
18. If you work for peace and do your best to maintain peace, the Lord will bless you and you will be called children of God.Matthew 5:9
19. Jesus has left us with this gift:John 14:27“I am leaving you with a gift—peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don’t be troubled or afraid.
20. Peace protects our mind and heart and keeps us from being troubled or afraid.
21. You can have peace in storms and sorrowsJohn 16:33 I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.”
22. Peace with the Fear of the Lord is a powerful combinationActs 9:31 The church then had peace throughout Judea, Galilee, and Samaria, and it became stronger as the believers lived in the fear of the Lord. And with the encouragement of the Holy Spirit, it also grew in numbers.
23. For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace rom 8:6
24. We are to live a life of peace and Joy in the Holy spirit Romans 14:17 For the Kingdom of God is not a matter of what we eat or drink, but of living a life of goodness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.
25. Only God can fill us with peace because we trust in Him and this joy and peace will produce and overflow of confident hope the power of the Holy Spirit.Romans 15:13
26. Gal 5:22 But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, ²³ gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against these things!
27. Discipline results in a peaceful harvest of right living Hebrews 12:11 No discipline is enjoyable while it is happening—it’s painful! But afterward there will be a peaceful harvest of right living for those who are trained in this way.
28. Peacemakers reap a harvest of righteousness!James 3:18And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace of them that make peace.
29. His peace guards us: Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God;  and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus Phil 4:6-7
30. Being a peacemaker takes work and you have to maintain this peace. Search for it. 1 Peter3 10-13
31. Peace (grace and mercy) comes from God the Father and from Jesus the Son of the Father 1 J 1:3
32. The work of righteousness shall be peace and the effect of righteousness is -quietness and assurance forever! Is 32:17-20

  Shoes protect us and so does peace. When I don’t wear shoes and walk outside I’m always concerned about what I might step on-broken glass, hot asphalt, thorns, red ants, wasp stingers,etc… but if I wear my shoes I don’t have to worry about anything I might step on. I can walk on burning sidewalks, over broken glass and nothing will hurt me. So it is with the sh0es of peace- you can walk through stormy waters and burning coals, but nothing can touch you- because you are covered and protected by the Peace of the Lord Jesus.

 
For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost. “Do you think I have come to bring peace to the earth? No, I have come to divide people against each other”  But as he came closer to Jerusalem and saw the city ahead, he began to weep.  “How I wish today that you of all people would understand the way to peace. But now it is too late, and peace is hidden from your eyes. Romans 14:17, Luke 12:51, Luke 19

What can I learn?

Peace protects us, fills us with joy, keeps us healthy, guarantees us a wonderful future, keeps us from stumbling, brings blessings, protects our mind and heart and keeps us from being troubled or afraid, brings righteousness, fills your heart with joy.

Peace is attained through the Lord by our obedience, our searching for it, Peace is given to those who love the Lord’s instructions and Fear Him.

So here’s the final question: What part of your life do you need to work on in order for God’s peace to reign? How can you be a peacemaker and please the Lord your God and Maker?

And the God of peace will crush Satan under your feet shortly.The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you.  Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God;  and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Do not enter the path of the wicked, and do not walk in the way of evil avoid it, do not travel on it;
Turn away from it and pass on Keep your heart with all diligence,For out of it spring the issues of life. 
Put away from you a deceitful mouth,
And put perverse lips far from you.
 Ponder the path of your feet, and let all your ways be established.
 Do not turn to the right or the left;Remove your foot from evil.
May God give you more and more grace and peace as you grow in your knowledge of God and Jesus our Lord.
Amen.

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Benefits of reading the bible. Why should I read the bible? Why should I study?

      “Why do you read the bible?” . 
          How can I explain the wonders, the joy and the power of the Word of God?   I decided I would search the scriptures so I would be ready next time someone asks- why do you bother reading the bible? 

 “ Then we will no longer be immature like children. We won’t be tossed and blown about by every wind of new teaching. We will not be influenced when people try to trick us with lies so clever they sound like the truth.” Eph 4:14

Why should we study the scriptures?
Why should we seek Him?

For I am always thinking of your laws. I meditate on them day and night. I write to you who are God’s children because you know the Father, I have written to you who are mature in the faith because you know Christ, who existed from the beginning. I have written to you whoa re young in the faith because you are strong. God’s word lives in your hearts and you have won your battle with the evil one. 1 John 2:14

 My Exhausting Study of why I study. 🙂

Taken from Scripture,here are just a few of the benefits of continuing to study, obey, and meditate on the Word of God

1. Revives me Ps 119:50-52, Ps 19:7-11
2. Brings me joy Ps 119:50-52
3. Comforts me in my distress Isaiah 51:12, Ps 23. Ps 119
4. Gives me Hope Luke 10:22
5. Refines me Ps 52
6. Gives me life Ps 119:28,  Job 4:3-6
7. Teaches me tPs 119:36
8. Encourages me he Lord’s will Eph 3
9. It is the mirror to my life 1 James 23-25
10. Keeps me standing firm and unshakable in my trials Luke 46:46, Jer 17:7. prov 1:33
11. Blesses me as I live according to it (obedience) James 1:22
12. Power to save my soul James 1:21
13. Teaches me the fear of the Lord- which is the beginning of all wisdom Is66:2. Pr. 9:10. Pr. 111:10 Deut 17:19
14. Leads me along the path that is true and right Hosea 14:9. Ps119:101
15. shows me my sins- pierces my heart Act 2:37
16. Always brings forth fruit and produces a great harvest in our life when we cling to His Word Luke 8:15, Is 55:10
17. keeps me from stumbling Ps 119:65, Prov 6:21
18. Helps us teach what is true 2 Tim 3:16, Hebrews 4:12
19. Shows me all the great and precious promises He has given us. 2Peter 2:1-3
20. Helps me escape the world’s corruption through His Promises which enable me to share His divine nature  2 Peter 1:4
21. Shows me what is wrong in my life 2 Tim 3:15
22. Corrects me when I am wrong and teaches me to do right 2 Tim 3:16
23. Prepares and equips God’s people to every good work 2 Tim 3:17
24. Keeps me from drifting away, keeps me from backsliding Heb 2:1
25. keeps me from sinning ps119:11-15
26. helps me stay pure Ps 119:8
27. It exposes our innermost thoughts and desires.Romans 1:16, 
28. Teaches me wisdom and understanding
29. Reminds me how I should live – forgiving others, loving, getting rid of bitterness,
30. Rids me of my shameful ways – like a sword piercing through bone and marrow Hebrews 4:12
31. Brings success, prosperity  Joshua 1:8,Ps 1:2-3, Jer 17:7-8
32. We live by every word from the mouth of God Matthew 4:4
33. Helps me stand firm in my trials Ps 1:2-3,Luke 6:46, Jer 17:7-8 Rom 5:3-4, Js 1
34. His gracious hand is upon those who study, obey and teach the Word Ezra 7:0
35. Reminds me to repent
36. Gives understanding: the more we study and read, the more understanding He gives us Mat 13:12, Eph 3:3-5
37. Discernment  between right and wrong teachings and knowing the difference between truth and those who teach from their false imaginations–so I won’t be tossed to and fro by the waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by human cunning, by craftiness in deceitful schemes Eph 4;14, Ez 13:17 “Now, son of man, speak out against the women who prophesy from their own imaginations. Ephesians 4:14
38. My Sword: Helps me in spiritual warfare, it is my sword of truth in battle, my weapon- the sword, which is the Word of God. Eph 6:17
39. It is the Power of God at work, it is alive and powerful and never comes back void, it burns like a fire in my heart Is 55:10-11, R. 1:16, Heb. 4:12, Jer 20:9
40. His Word accomplishes everything He wants it to Is 55:10-11
41. Shows me how the Lord wants me to live and obey His Words Rev 22:7
42. Source of understanding as I keep searching to understand Him and know Him
43. Increases Faith : Builds my faith Romans 10:17
44. Makes me wiser than my enemies Ps 119:98-99
45. Gives me more insight than my teachers Ps 119:98-99
46. Helps me abandon my shameful ways Ps 119:38
47. Stirs my Spirit
48. Teaches me how to live
49. Opens my eyes to what I need to know
50. Reminds me to teach my children Deut 6:5-9, Deut 32:46, prov 4:4
51. Tells me where I have gone wrong
52. God speaks to me through His Word
53. To know and understand the Warnings He’s given us Malachi 2:2
54. Helps me in prayer! “ if you remain in me and my words remain in you, you may ask for anything you want, and it will be granted!” Claim His Promises
55. Lifts me up when I am discouraged Job 4;3-6
56. Reminds me to be strong and courageous for Him Joshua 1
57. Warns me to stay on the right path and listen Heb 12:25
58. Instructs me
59. Teaches me how to live a holy life John 17:17
60. Salvation-The Power of God at word, saving everyone who believes the Good News about Christ- the Jew first and also the Gentile Romans 1:16, 1 Peter1:23, Phil 2:16, Acts 7:38 John 6:68
61. Gives me life, they are not empty words- they are life! John 6:68, Matt 13:22, Deut 32:47, Prov 4:4
62. How we get faith – from hearing the Word- need more faith? Read His Word Rom 10:17
63. His Words bless me Rev 1:3
64. Teaches me the truth and the truth sets me free John 8:31
65. Warns me of times ahead
66. Prepares me for persecution and rejection from others
67. Keeps my heart strong for Him while battling adversity
68. Fills our heart and mind with Godly wisdom and knowledge.
69. It is what the Lord expects us to do- “Haven’t you read the Scriptures” the Lord Jesus asked this 6x in Mathew and 3x in Mark
70. Sets me free James 1:22-25
71. keeps me from being proud Deut 17:20
72. Prevents me from turning away from his commands, even in the smallest way Deut 17:21
73. Teaches me to live a blameless life so I may worship in His Sanctuary Ps 15:1

 Hear the Word of the Lord:

             Your promise revives me; it comforts me in all my troubles. I meditate on your age-old regulations; O Lord, they comfort me. Don’t just listen to God’s word. You must do what it says. Otherwise, you are only fooling yourselves.  For if you listen to the word and don’t obey, it is like glancing at your face in a mirror.  You see yourself, walk away, and forget what you look like.  But if you look carefully into the perfect law that sets you free, and if you do what it says and don’t forget what you heard, then God will bless you for doing it. How can a young person stay pure? By obeying your word. I have tried hard to find you— don’t let me wander from your commands. I have hidden your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you. I praise you, O Lord; teach me your decrees. I have recited aloud all the regulations you have given us. I have rejoiced in your laws as much as in riches. I will study your commandments and reflect on your ways. I will delight in your decrees and not forget your word (Ps 119:7-16, Ps 119:50-52, James 1:22-25, Ps 119:2)

For the gracious hand of his God was on him. This was because Ezra had determined to study and obey the Law of the Lord and to teach those decrees and regulations to the people of Israel. Ezra 7:10

He must always keep that copy with him and read it daily as long as he lives. That way he will learn to fear the Lord his God by obeying all the terms of these instructions and decrees.  This regular reading will prevent him from becoming proud and acting as if he is above his fellow citizens. It will also prevent him from turning away from these commands in the smallest way. And it will ensure that he and his descendants will reign for many generations in Israel. Deut. 17: 18-21

  Study this Book of Instruction continually. Meditate on it day and night so you will be sure to obey everything written in it. Only then will you prosper and succeed in all you do. This is my command—be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”

 “The Lord your God will then make you successful in everything you do. He will give you many children and numerous livestock, and he will cause your fields to produce abundant harvests, for the Lord will again delight in being good to you as he was to your ancestors.  The Lord your God will delight in you if you obey his voice and keep the commands and decrees written in this Book of Instruction, and if you turn to the Lord your God with all your heart and soul.“This command I am giving you today is not too difficult for you to understand, and it is not beyond your reach. Duet 30: 9-11 

Listen to Him

 Anyone who belongs to God listens gladly to the words of God. But you don’t listen because you don’t belong to God.” So we must listen very carefully to the truth we have heard, or we may drift away from it. Be careful that you do not refuse to listen to the One who is speaking. Seek the LORD while you can find him. Call on him now while he is near. To those who listen to my teaching, more understanding will be given, and they will have an abundance of knowledge. But for those who are not listening, even what little understanding they have will be taken away from them.  Matthew 13:11-13, John 8:47, Heb 2:1, Heb 12:25, Rev 1:3, is 55:6

Remain in His Word: But if you remain in me and my words remain in you, you may ask for anything you want, and it will be granted!  Ps 119:10, John 15:7, 1Peter1:25, Ps 119:28

Delight in the Law. Meditate on it Day and Night: But they delight in the law of the Lord, meditating on it day and night. They are like trees planted along the riverbank, bearing fruit each season. Their leaves never wither, and they prosper in all they do. Study this Book of Instruction continually. Meditate on it day and night so you will be sure to obey everything written in it. Only then will you prosper and succeed in all you do. The instructions of the Lord are perfect, reviving the soul.The decrees of the Lord are trustworthy, making wise the simple. The commandments of the Lord are right, bringing joy to the heart. The commands of the Lord are clear, giving insight for living. Reverence for the Lord is pure,lasting forever. The laws of the Lord are true; each one is fair. They are more desirable than gold, even the finest gold. They are sweeter than honey, even honey dripping from the comb. They are a warning to your servant, a great reward for those who obey them Joyful are those who obey his laws and search for him with all their hearts. Ps 119:2, Ps 1:1-3, Josh 1:8, Ps 19:7-11 

Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path. Those who love your instructions have great peace and do not stumble.119:65. 105

 ⁴ But Jesus told him, “No! The Scriptures say, People do not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.’ I will show you what it’s like when someone comes to me, listens to my teaching, and then follows it.  It is like a person building a house who digs deep and lays the foundation on solid rock. When the floodwaters rise and break against that house, it stands firm because it is well built. ⁴⁹ But anyone who hears and doesn’t obey is like a person who builds a house without a foundation. When the floods sweep down against that house, it will collapse into a heap of ruins.” Luke 6:46-49, matt 4:4

¹ Jesus said to the people who believed in him, “You are truly my disciples if you remain faithful to my teachings. ³² And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” But if you remain in me and my words remain in you, you may ask for anything you want, and it will be granted! John 15:7, John 8:31

 ¹⁶ All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. ¹God uses it to prepare and equip his people to do every good work. For I am not ashamed of this Good News about Christ. It is the power of God at work, saving everyone who believes—the Jew first and also the Gentile. Put on salvation as your helmet, and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. For the word of God is alive and powerful. It is sharper than the sharpest two-edged sword, cutting between soul and spirit, between joint and marrow. It exposes our innermost thoughts and desires.Romans 1:16, Eph 6:17, Heb 4:122 Tim 3:16

 He must always keep that copy with him and read it daily as long as he lives. That way he will learn to fear the Lord his God by obeying all the terms of these instructions and decrees. D 17:9

 http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_detailpage&v=2SLHWFpSlq4

WARNING- VERY IMPORTANT:

The Lord has been showing and revealing things to me about the narrow path and the narrow gate that few will enter. So many will strive, expect, and work hard to enter – BUT will not. This saddens me and I cried out to God- Why? How? The Lord has been teaching me that people believe every doctrine they hear. False teachers are appearing everywhere with the truth mixed in their message, but their hearts are wicked and evil. You will only discover this and have discernment in these last days if you are reading, studying and obeying the Word. The Word of God will keep you from being tossed around like a wave with every new doctrine. You will know God’s warnings and commands and understand you are not of this World. If the truth is not in our hearts- we can be swayed to false doctrines – these, the Lord has shown me are the ones who will strive to get in, but will not.  We think of false teachers as some weird looking dude, but they look normal! Act normal! And know scripture! They are charismatic and tell you what you want to hear.  They are on our tv’s and if you listen closely-you will understand. Turn off the tv, radio and open the Word of God. Many of these wolves intertwine God’s word with their selfish teaching, corrupting themselves and those around them. So the Lord will give them up to their sinful ways. They worked hard, yet their hearts are full of arrogance, pride, aggressiveness, anger, they never stop to humble themselves before God. THIS IS SO IMPORTANT! SO MANY WILL NOT ENTER BECAUSE OF THIS. L The Lord wants the wicked to change their ways- each day is another chance to reach out and pray for the lost around us. Please pray because the Lord loves them dearly and does not want them to perish.

    He replied,“Work hard to enter the narrow door to God’s Kingdom, for many will try to enter but will fail. ²⁵ When the master of the house has locked the door, it will be too late. You will stand outside knocking and pleading, ‘Lord, open the door for us!’ But he will reply, ‘I don’t know you or where you come from.’  Then you will say, ‘But we ate and drank with you, and you taught in our streets.’ ²⁷ And he will reply, ‘I tell you, I don’t know you or where you come from. Get away from me, all you who do evil.’ Luke 13

My heart is broken because of the false prophets, and my bones tremble. I stagger like a drunkard, like someone overcome by wine, because of the holy words the Lord has spoken against them.

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