MESSAGES OF COMFORT AND ENCOURAGEMENT TO THE SUFFERING
*******************************************************
MESSAGE-1
DIFFICULT SEASONS IN THE LIFE OF A CHRISTIAN
OUTLINE
1.SEASONS OF SORROW
2.SEASONS OF SHAME
3.SEASONS OF SUFFERING
4.SEASONS OF SHAKING
5.SEASONS OF SEARCHING
6.SEASONS OF SCARCITY
7.SEASONS OF SECRECY
DIFFICULT SEASONS IN THE LIFE OF A CHRISTIAN
1.SEASONS OF SORROW
John 16;20
A christian sometimes goes through a season of sorrow. Sorrow is also part of the christian life.Sorrow may be due to loss of a loved one or dissapointment of some fond expectation. But it is only a passing season. God does not want us to get drowned in our sorrows.He wants to turn our sorrows into joy.
2.SEASONS OF SHAME
Isaiah 61;7 Philippians 2;6-11
A christian sometimes goes through a season of shame.Shame and
humiliation may be due to mockery by unbeleiving friends and relatives or hostile enemies of the gospel.Shame can also occur due to a humbling process allowed by God.But we should not despair as though there is no hope.God honours those who serve him.The season of shame will be followed by a season of honour.
3.SEASONS OF SUFFERING
Exodus 3;7-9 Job 42;10-13
A christian sometimes goes through a season of suffering. Suffering is part of the christian life.We are strangers and pilgrims in a hostile world. Jesus said ’ if the world hated me it will also hate you. But we are promised great reward for our suffering. The lord who delivered the people of Israel from their suffering in the land of Egypt will also deliver us.
4.SEASONS OF SHAKING
Hebrews 12;26
A christian sometimes goes through a season of shaking. When God’s children become careless and inattentive , God shakes them from their slumber by some shocking experiences .This is not to destroy them but to awaken them. When people begin to rely on something or someone more than God it becomes a snare to them and God allows these false foundations to crumble in order to make his people put their trust in Him only.
5.SEASONS OF SEARCHING
Psalms 11;5 Job 23;10
A christian sometimes goes through a season of searching. Searching is a good cleansing experience. When God searches our heart to reveal all those things that are displeasing to Him it is a great preventive medicine to our soul. A periodic medical examination is good for our body . In the same way a regular soul searching experience is good for our spiritual life.
6.SEASONS OF SCARCITY
Phillippians 4;12
A christian sometimes goes through a season of scarcity.Sometimes before God can bring us to a place of abundance He has to allow us to go through a season of scarcity. This wilderness experience is a place of testing for us. When we pass the test the abundance of God is waiting for us.
7.SEASONS OF SECRECY
I Peter 5;6
A christian sometimes goes through a season of secrecy. This is a period where God keeps them in the shaddow.This is a period of submission and silence. This is a period of preparation and training in secret before God sends them in the public arena .This period should be completed before a christian comes out publicly. Otherwise it will be like a premature birth where the baby is not even fully formed. Therefore every christian would do well to go through a complete period of preparation before coming out of the season of secrecy
*******************************************************
MESSAGE-2
GOD’S COMPENSATION : GOD IS NOT A DEBTOR TO ANY MAN
OUTLINE
1.REJOICING
2.REDEMPTION
3.REWARD
4.RECOMPENSE
5.RESTORATION
6.REVENGE
7.RENOWN
THE MESSAGE
GOD’S COMPENSATION : GOD IS NOT A DEBTOR TO ANY MAN
1.REJOICING
Psalms 126:4-6
God gives us rejoicing for all our tears. He turns our sorrows into joy. Whatever we sow in tears we will reap with joy. Our tears are not wasted in the sight of God. He will replace them with abundant joy and happiness.Let us give our sorrows and tears to God and receive His joy in return.
2.REDEMPTION
Job 42:12 Psalms 66:11
God gives us deliverance and redemption from our difficulties . Job experienced terrible loss and tragedy in his life.But God blessed his latter end more than his beginning.God compensated everything that Job suffered for his faithfulness to God.We may go through fire and water. People may ride over our heads. But God will bring us into a wealthy place.
3.REWARD
Romans 8:17-18 Matthew 5:10-12
God gives us great reward for everything we suffer for his sake.Our present suffering cannot be compared with the glory that will be revealed.God is not a debtor to any man. His compensation will be infinitely greater than all our sufferings.There is great reward for all the persecution and false accusations that we endure.
4.RECOMPENSE
Mark 10:28-30
God gives us a hundredfold recompense for all that we sacrifice for His sake.All who have left houses and land and relationships for God’s sake can expect a hundred fold recompense from God.
5.RESTORATION
Joel 2:25-26
God gives us a restoration of all the years that have been wasted.Whatever we lost during wasted years can be restored by God even in a short time.He will give us His abundance to enjoy.
6.REVENGE
Romans 12:19 I Peter 2:23
God gives us an assurance of justice and revenge for all the evil and injustice we have endured.We should not avenge ourselves but practise love and forgiveness even to our enemies.Jesus did not avenge
Himself but commited all things to the one who judges righteously.He prayed for forgiveness for his enemies on the cross.But the history of the Jewish people can reveal the judgement of God.Let us commit our unjust sufferings to the God who ensures justice.
7.RENOWN
Isaiah 61:7
God gives us honour and renown for all the humiliation and shame we have endured.We can see how God compensated Joseph , Daniel ,David and many others for all the humiliation they faced in their lives. He
brought great glory and honour to them.Hannah who faced humiliation because she was barren became the proud mother of prophet Samuel.God is not a debtor to any man. He will compensate abundantly for all the
shame and humilation we face in our life.Let us receive God’s compensation in every area of our life for our God is not a debtor to any man.
*******************************************************
MESSAGE-3
THE SOVEREIGNITY OF GOD IN THE AFFAIRS OF MEN : PROVERBS 16:33
OUTLINE
1.PROMOTION
2.PLAN OF GOD
3.PROPHECY
4.PRIDE OF MAN
5.PROMISE OF GOD
6.POWER OF GOD
7.PRAISE UNTO GOD
THE MESSAGE
THE SOVEREIGNITY OF GOD IN THE AFFAIRS OF MEN
1.PROMOTION
Psalms 75:6-7 Isaiah 51:2
The sovereignity of God is revealed in the promotion of man.God lifts up one and puts down another.We must look to Him for our promotion.He chose ordinary people like Abraham and David and made them into great men.Inspite of all human efforts the sovereignity of God is involved in the promotion of man.
2.PLAN OF GOD
Acts 4:27-28
The sovereignity of God is revealed in enforcing His plan . We can see clearly that King Herod and Pilate and all the priests could only fulfill the plan of God in the life of Jesus. All their plots and plans against Jesus could only succeed in fulfilling what God had predetermined. Thus when our life is committed to God even the best strategies formed against us will only fulfill the sovereign plan of God for our life.
3.PROPHECY
Luke 2:1-4 Micah 5:2
The sovereignity of God is revealed in fulfilling His prophecies against all odds. According to the prophecy of Micah the Messiah would be born in Bethlehem.However Joseph and Mary were in Nazareth with Mary about to give birth to the Messiah .At that time there came a decree from Caesar Augustus that everyone should go to their native place to be taxed.This resulted in Mary and Joseph going to Bethlehem where Jesus was born thus fufilling the prophecy of Micah. Thus the sovereignity of God is seen even in the decrees of Human Governments to fulfill His Word.Let us trust God to fulfill His promises to us even if it requires supernatural intervention.
4.PRIDE OF MAN
Daniel 4:29-35 Acts 12:21-23
The sovereignity of God is revealed in crushing the pride of man when he forgets that God is on the throne.King Nebuchadnezzar learnt a bitter lesson when he forgot that God is the sovereign authority over Human Governments.He lost his kingdom and glory until he realised that God rules over the nations.King Herod lost his life when he failed to give God the glory.Thus the pride of man is crushed when he fails to recognize the sovereignity of God.
5.PROMISE OF GOD
Genesis 15:13-16 Exodus 1:9-12
The sovereignity of God is revealed in fulfilling His promises.God promised Abraham that his descendants would be in bondage in a strange land for a period but would come out with great substance. The brothers of Joseph sold him as a slave to Egypt which ultimately caused the people of Israel to live in Egypt.Joseph realising the purpose of God told his brothers ’it was not you who sent me to Egypt but God’.The sovereignity of God is seen in the life of Joseph to fulfill His promises.The Egyptians feared the progress of the Israelites and oppressed them but it only caused them to multiply and increase. Let us recognize the sovereignity of God in our lives in fulfilling His promises.
6.POWER OF GOD
Job 42:2
The sovereignity of God is revealed through His power to fulfill His purposes.Job learnt at the end of his period of suffering that the Sovereign God is all powerful and none could stop what He wants to do. There were many confusing and conflicting arguments and explanations given by people during the suffering of Job.But finally he learnt and understood the fundamental secret of the sovereignity of God in his life.Let us understand the power of God to fulfill His sovereign will in our lives.
7.PRAISE UNTO GOD
Psalm 46:10
The sovereignity of God is revealed in His intervention in the affairs of men for His praise and glory.He can cause even difficult situations to bring glory and praise unto Him.When Lazarus was sick Jesus said that it was for the glory of God.However it appeared impossible when Lazarus died.But Jesus raised him from the dead which brought great glory to God. The sovereignity of God can cause even impossible and difficult situations to bring glory and praise unto Him.God wants us to be still and know that He is the Sovereign God.He will be exalted in our life even through difficult situations.
*******************************************************
MESSAGE-4
ALL THINGS WORK TOGETHER FOR GOOD
1.TRAINING
Hebrews 12:5-11
The Lord trains us to do the work He wants us to do.This training process involves discipline,correction and development.He chastens us in order to develop us.The training process will be according to work He wants us to do. Easy work requires easy training but difficult tasks require difficult,intensive and elaborate training. But let us remember that even the training process and chastening will work only for our good.
2.TRANSIENCE
Psalms 30:5 Isaiah 54:7-8
The Lord allows some periods of pain and difficulty in our life.But it is only transient and temporary.His love towards us is permanent.Weeping may endure for a night but joy comes in the morning.Let us remember that the mercy of God is permanent in our lives.These transient periods of pain will be followed by good times.
3.TRANSFORMATION
John 16:20
The Lord turns our sorrow into joy. He can turn the very source of sorrow into a source of joy.Saul in the New Testament was a source of sorrow and pain to the church causing great persecution to the church.But God turned Saul into Paul and made him a great source of joy and blessing to the church.Whatever is a source of sorrow to us ,God can turn that very thing into a source of joy for us.Thus even our source of sorrow works for good in our life.
4.TEARS
Psalms 84:6 II Corinthians 1:3
The Lord helps us to make our tears into a source of blessing.We can pass through the valley of tears and make it into a well.He comforts us and makes us a source to comfort to those in sorrow. We should not drown in our sorrows but make it a well where others who go through similar sorrowful experiences can come and receive comfort and guidance and strength.Thus even our tears can make us a source of blessing and ultimately work for our good.
5.TURNAROUND
Genesis 50:20
The Lord takes the evil intended against us and turns it into good.Every evil intended against Joseph ultimately turned into good .His brothers act of selling him as a slave helped him to reach Egypt.Potiphar’s wife’s false accusation helped him reach the prison where he interpreted the cup bearer’s dream.This in turn caused the cup bearer to remember Joseph when the King had a dream which nobody could interpret.Thus Joseph was brought before the Pharoh who put him in charge of the whole country.Therefore every evil act against Joseph actually brought him closer and closer to his destiny and blessing.Thus even the evil intended against us turns into good.
6.TRIUMPH
Daniel 6:28 Daniel 3:30
The Lord causes us to triumph when we go through fearful experiences.Daniel was thrown into the lion’s den.Shadrach, Meshach and Abed Nego were thrown into the fire. These were fearful and dangerous experiences but there was a great triumph and honour waiting for them after these experiences.If they had not gone through these experiences they probably would have led very ordinary lives in obscurity.But these experiences brought great triumph and blessing into their lives.The King promoted them and honoured them greatly after these experiences.Thus even fearful experiences work for our good.
7.TESTING
Genesis 22:16-18
The Lord tests us and proves us.These trials and testings can be very painful.But a great blessing is awaiting us when we come out victoriously.God tested Abraham by asking him to sacrifice his son Isaac.When Abraham proved his obedience God showered great blessings on him and his descendents.Whenever an examination is passed victoriously there is always a promotion to the next higher level.No one can remain in the same level after coming out victoriously in the examination.God has great blessings for us when we come out successfully in the tests that He has for us.Thus even painful testings work for our good.
*******************************************************
MESSAGE-5
UNTO THE UPRIGHT THERE ARISES LIGHT IN THE DARKNESS: Psalms 112:4
OUTLINE
1.CONVERSION
2.CLARITY
3.COUNSEL
4.CHEER
5.CONFIDENCE
6.COURAGE
7.CLEANSING
THE MESSAGE
UNTO THE UPRIGHT THERE ARISES LIGHT IN THE DARKNESS: Psalms 112:4
1.CONVERSION
II Corinthians 4:6 John 1:9 John 12:46 Acts 10:1-6
Unto the upright there arises the light of Salvation in the darkness of sin. Cornelius was an upright man who lived in the darkness of ignorance of truth. But his prayers and alms reached God and an angel was sent to Cornelius to tell him to contact Peter to know the way of Salvation through Jesus Christ. To Cornelius there arose a light in the darkness.God reveals Himself to those who seek Him with their whole heart.The light of Jesus Christ shines in the hearts of sinners to convert them into salvation.
2.CLARITY
Psalms 119:130 Matthew 1:18-20 Matthew 14:23-27
Unto the upright there arises the light of clarity and understanding in the darkness of confusion and perplexity.In the New Testament Joseph an upright man was confused and perplexed when he learnt about the pregnancy of Mary.But God sent an Angel to Joseph to clarify the whole situation and help him to understand the mystery.There arose a light in the darkness for Joseph.The disciples of Jesus were sailing in a boat at night and were facing rough weather. And Jesus came to their rescue by walking on the water.But the disciples could not recognise Jesus and were terrified thinking it was a ghost.But Jesus immediately reassured them by revealing Himself. God reveals the truth to the upright when they are confused and perplexed by imaginary fears.
3.COUNSEL
Psalms 119:105 John 12 :35 John 21:3-6
Unto the upright there arises the light of counsel and guidance in the darkness of doubt and indecision.The word of God is a lamp unto our feet and a light unto our path when we walk surrounded by darkness .The light of God shows us the way to walk and the direction to go. The disciples of Jesus went fishing.But after fishing all night they caught nothing. In the morning Jesus appeared on the shore and gave them counsel to cast the net on the right side of the boat and immediately they caught an abundance of fish.God gives the light of His counsel and guidance to the upright when they face the darkness of doubt and failure.
4.CHEER
Psalm 30:5 Psalm 97:11 John 20:19-20
Unto the upright there arises the light of cheer and gladness in the darkness of sorrow and tears.Weeping may endure for a night but Joy comes in the morning. The disciples of Jesus were in fear and sorrow after His crucifixion.But Jesus appeared to them in a closed room after His resurrection. Then the disciples were filled with joy when they saw the Lord Jesus Christ. God gives the light of His Joy and gladness to the upright when they face the darkness of tears and sorrow.
5.CONFIDENCE
Isaiah 9:2 Psalm 36:9 II Kings 6:15-17
Unto the upright there arises the light of confidence and hope in the darkness of fear and danger and hopelessness. The servant of Elisha woke up in the morning to see the vast host of the Syrian army surrounding them.It appeared a hopeless situation to him as they were totally outnumbered.But Elisha prayed that God should open the eyes of the servant.And Behold the servant could see the vast armies of God surrounding them with chariots of fire.God gives the light of His hope and confidence to the upright when they face hopeless situations.
6.COURAGE
Isaiah 60:1-2 Job 29:3 Matthew 26:69-75 Acts 2:14
Unto the upright there arises the light of courage and action in the darkness of fear and inaction. Peter denied the Lord Jesus three times but it was not a preplanned and deliberate act like that of Judas.Peter failed momentarily because of fear.But the same Peter was empowered and emboldened on the day of Pentecost to witness for Jesus. The light of courage arose for Peter in the darkness of fear and enabled Him to shine for God.God gives the light of His courage to the upright to shine boldly for Him even in the midst of dark situations.
7.CLEANSING
Romans 13:12 Ephesians 5:8 Matthew 5:6
Unto the upright there arises the light of cleansing and purification in the darkness of sin and uncleaness.God promises to satisfy the longing of those who hunger and thirst after righteousness. He gives the light of His holiness to shine in the hearts of the upright who sincerely desire to live in holiness and righteousness.
*******************************************************
MESSAGE-6
21 THOUGHTS FOR MEDITATION ON THE CRUCIFIXION OF JESUS CHRIST
1)JESUS SUFFERED FOR THE BENEFIT OF OTHERS:Isaiah 53:4-6
Often we are willing to suffer for our own benefit but let us learn to suffer for the benefit of others.
2)JESUS SUFFERED EVEN THOUGH HE WAS RIGHTEOUS AND INNOCENT:Luke 23:14-16
Often we complain that we face suffering unjustly even though we are faithful and godly but let us remember that Jesus also faced it.
3)JESUS WAS HATED WITHOUT CAUSE:John 15:24-25
Often we wonder what evil we have done to face so much hatred but let us remember that Jesus who did so much good was also hated thus.
4)JESUS SUFFERED BECAUSE OF HIS OWN PEOPLE THE JEWS:John 18:35
Often our suffering can be caused by our own people and not by strangers.Jesus was persecuted not by the Romans but by the Jews.
5)JESUS FACED FALSE ACCUSATIONS AND FALSE WITNESSES:Matthew 26:59-60
Often we may face false accusations and false witnesses but we are only following in the footsteps of Jesus.
6)JESUS WAS SILENT BEFORE THE FALSE ACCUSATIONS: Matthew 27:12-14
Often when we face false accusations we may want to defend ourselves vehemently but Jesus was silent and committed it to God.
7)JESUS WAS TREATED LIKE A CRIMINAL :Matthew 26:55-56
Often we may feel that we are treated like criminals and not like God’s children .Remember Jesus was crucified between thieves.
8)’HE SAVED OTHERS HIMSELF HE COULD NOT SAVE’:Matthew 27:42
Often we may be mocked like Jesus.We help others and solve their problems but sometimes we are unable to solve our own problems.
9)’MY GOD ,MY GOD, WHY HAVE YOU FORSAKEN ME?’ :Matthew 27:46
Often we may cry out in the same way but let us remember that the crucifixion was followed by the resurrection.
10)JESUS WAS BETRAYED BY HIS OWN DISCIPLE: Matthew:26:21
Often we may be betrayed by those close to us and who have benefitted much from us .Jesus was betrayed by one whom He had trained.
11)JESUS WAS PLOTTED AGAINST BY RELIGIOUS LEADERS:Matthew 26:3-5
Often we may face attacks from those who are supposed to lead people in the ways of God.It was the priests who wanted to kill Jesus.
12)JESUS FACED INTENSE EMOTIONAL AND MENTAL AGONY:Luke 22:44
Often we may face agonising periods of great suffering but no one has faced the agony of Jesus whose sweat came out as blood.
13)JESUS SUFFERED BECAUSE OF THE JEALOUSY OF PEOPLE:Mark 15:10
Often we may face suffering purely because of the jealousy of people.Pilate discerned that the Jewish leaders were jealous of Jesus.
14)JESUS WAS DESERTED BY EVERYONE WHEN HE FACED DANGER:Mark14:50
Often we may feel left alone when we are in danger.Jesus was deserted by everyone when he was arrested and faced his enemies alone.
15)JESUS WAS SPAT UPON AND BUFFETED: Matthew 26:67-68
Often we may face abuse and pain but remember Jesus the Son of God was spat upon and buffeted.
16)JESUS WAS MOCKED AND RIDICULED:Matthew 27:29-31
Often we may be mocked and humiliated and we may be unable to stop it.Jesus was mocked and ridiculed by the soldiers.
17)JESUS WAS REVILED EVEN BY THOSE WHO PASSED BY: Matthew 27:39-43
Often we may be reviled even by irrelevant people who are not connected with us in any way.Even those who passed by reviled Jesus.
18)JESUS WAS REJECTED AND BARABAS WAS CHOSEN:Matthew 27:20-23
Often we may face rejection and someone with dubious credentials may be preferred.A murderer was chosen instead of Jesus.
19)JESUS HAD A PAINFUL AND AGONISING DEATH:John 19:16-17
Often we wish for peaceful end without any suffering but let us remember that Jesus died in great agony and suffering.
20)’IF THEY DO THIS TO THE GREEN TREE WHAT ABOUT THE DRY TREE’Luke 23:31
Often we may wonder why we face so much suffering but Jesus already predicted that this would happen to His followers also.
21)’FATHER FORGIVE THEM FOR THEY KNOW NOT WHAT THEY DO’:Matthew 27:34
Often we may be tempted to retaliate when attacked but Jesus wants us to forgive those who persecute us in their ignorance.
*******************************************************
MESSAGE-7
THE ETERNAL GOD IN A CHANGING WORLD : DEUTRONOMY 33:27
OUTLINE
1.ETERNAL PARDON
2.ETERNAL PASSION
3.ETERNAL PRESENCE
4.ETERNAL PROMISES
5.ETERNAL POWER
6.ETERNAL PURPOSE
7.ETERNAL PURITY
THE MESSAGE
THE ETERNAL GOD IN A CHANGING WORLD : DEUTRONOMY 33:27
1.ETERNAL PARDON
Romans 6:23 I John 5:11
In a changing world God’s pardon is eternal. Man faces sudden changes in life through natural calamities, loss,ill health, disappointments etc. In the midst of sweeping and sometimes painful changes the eternal God is a refuge. God offers eternal pardon of all of man’s sins through the blood of Jesus Christ. This pardon and forgiveness also gives eternal life and salvation to man. Humanity tormented by guilt and restlessness can receive the eternal pardon and eternal life offered by God through Jesus Christ.
2.ETERNAL PASSION
Jeremiah 31:3
In a changing world God’s passion and love for us is eternal. So many people are heartbroken because of unreliable human love. The love of man may have many hidden strings attached .People may love because of money ,position,popularity, etc.This love will change when the circumstances change. The only reliable love is God’s love which is unconditonal and eternal.His love will continue for ever inspite of changing circumstances in our life.
3.ETERNAL PRESENCE
Psalms 16:11 Isaiah 54:8
In a changing world God’s presence is eternal.No one can be with us all the time.Parents,friends, neighbours,relatives or colleagues can be with us only at certain times and for a certain period. Only God can be with us all the time. If we depend on people we will be disappointed when they cannot be with us. We must depend on the eternal presence of God who will never leave us nor forsake us.
4.ETERNAL PROMISES
Isaiah 55:3
In a changing world God’s promises are eternal. People may forget their promises or even deny them. They may be unable to fulfill their promises becauses of their own difficulties. So many people are dissapointed because of failed promises. In the midst of these failures God’s promises are a strong foundation for our lives.The promises of God are unfailing and eternal. His promises to Abraham were fulfilled even though the circumstances appeared impossible. Let us trust the eternal promises of God .
5.ETERNAL POWER
I Timothy 6:16
In a changing world God’s power is eternal.Human power and authority is changing all the time. But God is always on the throne. He will rule forever and His power never changes. Depending on the power of man and other earthly resources can fail us anytime.But the eternal power of God will always be available to work for us. Let us depend on the eternal power of God.
6.ETERNAL PURPOSE
Ephesians 3:11
In a changing world God’s purposes and plans are eternal. Even before the foundation of the world God’s eternal plans and purposes were established.We must discover the eternal plan of God for our lives. Human plans are always short sighted when compared to God’s plans. God’s plans and ways are higher than ours.Let us depend on God’s plans and fulfill our destiny in life.
7.ETERNAL PURITY
Isaiah 6:3
In a changing world God’s purity is eternal. The world’s standard of holiness keep changing all the time.Unacceptable lifestyle can become normal with the passage of time. But God’s holiness and purity never changes according to the world’s standards.His purity and holiness is eternal. He calls us to be holy even as He is holy.
*******************************************************
MESSAGE-8
THE LAST DAYS:DISCERNING THE SIGNS OF THE TIMES
OUTLINE
1.PERILS
2.PEOPLE
3.PERSECUTION
4.PROBLEMS
5.POWER
6.PROCLAMATION
7.PREPARATION
THE MESSAGE
THE LAST DAYS:DISCERNING THE SIGNS OF THE TIMES
1.PERILS
Luke 21:9-11,25-26
We can discern that we are living in the last days by perils that we can see in the world such as wars,great earthquakes, famines ,pestilences,fearful events, perplexity of the nations.All these perils were foretold by the Lord Jesus to help us discern the signs of the times.Truly we can discern that we are living in the last days as we look around the world today.
2.PEOPLE
II Timothy 3:1-5, I Timothy 4:1-3 , II Peter 3:3
We can discern that we are living in the last days by the kind of people who live in the world today .People who are selfish,coveteous, boastful , proud,abusive,disobedient to parents,ungrateful, unholy, without love, unforgiving, slanderous, without self-control ,brutal, not lovers of good, trecherous, rash, conceited, lovers of pleasures etc.As we observe the behaviour of the people of the world today surely we can discern that we are living in the last days.
3.PERSECUTION
Luke 21:12,16-17
We can discern that we are living in the last days by the persecution that God’s children are experiencing today all over the world.Even in countries where there used to be freedom for evangelism there is persecution today.As we observe the persecution of God’s children surely we can discern that we are living in the last days.
4.PROBLEMS
Luke 21:34 Luke 17:26-30
We can discern that we are living in the last days by the problems facing todays society such as surfeiting, drunkeness and cares and fears and worries .Jesus revealed such a condition will prevail during the last days and warned His children not to allow themselves to be drowned in the cares of this life lest the day of His coming come upon them unawares. As we see the problems facing today’s society surely we can discern that we are living in the last days.
5.POWER
Acts 2:17-18 Hebrews 12:26-27
We can discern that we are living in the last days by the power of God being manifested all over the world. God is pouring out his spirit upon all flesh.The Holy spirit is moving mightily all over the world and the church is being revived and empowered where even laymen are rising and shining for God.There is a great shaking taking place both in the church and in the world as God is intervening in a powerful way.Surely we can discern we are living in the last days.
6.PROCLAMATION
Matthew 24:14 Mark 13:10
We can discern that we are living in the last days by the rapid proclamation of the gospel all over the world. Modern media has made it possible for the gospel to be preached to millions through television , radio, print media etc. As we observe the rapid spread of the gospel surely we can discern that we are living in the last days.
7.PREPARATION
We can discern that we are living in the last days by the call to prepare for the coming of the Lord. All over the world God’s people are sensing the need for preparation and purification to meet the Lord when He comes. The Holy Spirit is preparing the bride of Christ to present it blameless in spirit, soul and body at the coming of the Lord.Surely we can discern tht we are living in the last days.
Let us prepare to meet the Lord when He comes and let us proclaim the gospel to every creature before He comes. May God bless you.
*******************************************************
MESSAGE-9
FOLLOWING CHRIST TILL THE END:JOHN 6:66-68
OUTLINE
1.PROMISE
2.PEACE
3.POWER
4.PRAYER
5.POSITIVE FAITH
6.PASSION
7.PERSON
THE MESSAGE
FOLLOWING CHRIST TILL THE END
1.PROMISE
Proverbs 23:18
To follow Christ till the end we must beleive His promises. Sometimes people give up following Christ because they lose hope about the solution of their problems.But God promises that surely there is a end and our expectation will not be cut off.
2.PEACE
Psalms 85:8
To follow Christ till the end we must experience His peace which passes all understanding.This is a peace which the world cannot give.Sometimes people give up following Christ because they do not enjoy the peace of God and are living miserable lives because of their problems.God wants us to experience His divine peace in the midst of all our difficulties.
3.POWER
II Corinthians 12:9
To follow Christ till the end we must experience His power resting upon us in our infirmities.Sometimes people give up following Christ because they do not experience God’s power to endure their difficulties. Apostle Paul experienced the Power of Christ in all his distresses.The Grace of God was sufficient in his life.He was able to endure the thorn in the flesh, a messenger of satan which was buffeting him which actually helped him to stay humble.
4.PRAYER
Luke 18:1-7
To follow Christ till the end we must learn to pray till we get an answer.Sometimes people give up following Christ because they do not get answers to their prayers as soon as they expect.God wants us to pray persistently till we get an answer.
5.POSITIVE FAITH
Hebrews 10:35
To follow Christ till the end we must have a postive faith and confidence.Sometimes people give up following Christ because they allow fear and unbelief to overcome them. Peter walked on the water as long as he had faith.But He began to drown when he allowed fear into his heart.We must maintain our faith and confidence in Christ till the end.
6.PASSION
Romans 8:35-39
To follow Christ till the end we must have a passionate love for Christ.Sometimes people give up following Christ because they do not have a real strong love for Him. Hence they are unable to bear any suffering for His sake.Apostle Paul had such a strong love for Christ that he was sure that nothing can seperate him from the love of Christ.
7.PERSON
Psalm 34:5 Psalm 121:1-2 Hebrews 12:1-2
To follow Christ till the end we must focus our attention on the person of Christ. Sometimes people give up following Christ because they look to someone else as their model or source of help and end up getting disappointed and disillusioned .We must look to Christ alone as our example and source of help in order to follow Christ till the end.
*******************************************************
MESSAGE-10
KEEP THE LORD ALWAYS BEFORE YOU AND YOU SHALL NOT BE MOVED:Psalms 16:8
OUTLINE
1.SHEPHERD
2.SHIELD
3.SUN
4.STRENGTH
5.SALVATION
6.SONG
7.SATISFACTION
THE MESSAGE
KEEP THE LORD ALWAYS BEFORE YOU AND YOU SHALL NOT BE MOVED:Psalms 16:8
1.SHEPHERD
Psalm 23:1 Psalm 100:3
If we keep the Lord before us as our shepherd we shall not be moved.We must focus our attention on Him as our provider to meet our needs.We are the sheep of His pasture and the Lord will take care of us.When we keep the Lord before us we will not be moved by difficult circumstances and the needs we face in our life.
2.SHIELD
Psalm 3:3 Psalm 121:5-8
If we keep the Lord before us as our shield we shall not be moved.We must focus our attention on Him as our protection to protect us from all harm and danger.The Lord is our keeper and He will preserve us from all evil.When we keep the Lord before us we will not be moved by the dangers and threats we face in our life.
3.SUN
Psalm 84:11 Psalm 27:1-3
If we keep the Lord before us as our Sun we shall not be moved.We must focus our attention on Him as our Light to bring brightness into our life.The Lord is our Light and He will remove the darkness of fear and gloom and confusion from our life.When we keep the Lord before us we will not be moved by dark circumstances in our life.
4.STRENGTH
Psalm 27:1 Psalm 71:16
If we keep the Lord before us as our Strength we shall not be moved.We must focus our attention on Him as our Strength to help us face our responsibilities and difficulties.The Lord is our Strength and He will give us the strength to endure heavy responsibilities and trials.When we keep the Lord before us we will not be moved by any difficulty we face in our life.
5.SALVATION
Psalm 27:1 Psalm 37:39
If we keep the Lord before us as our Salvation we shall not be moved.We must focus our attention on Him as our Salvation to rescue us and deliver us.The Lord is our Salvation and He will save us from all entanglements.When we keep the Lord before us we shall not be moved by the complicated situations we find ourselves in.
6.SONG
Psalm 104:33-34 Hebrews 12:2 Matthew 5:11-12
If we keep the Lord before us as our Song we shall not be moved.We must focus our attention on Him as our Song and praise Him and thank Him from the bottom of our heart.Jesus endured the cross by focusing His attention on the joy that was set before Him.We must rejoice in persecution by focusing our attention on the great reward that is promised to us.When we keep the Lord before us we shall not be moved by the persecution and slander that we face in our life.
7.SATISFACTION
Psalm 63:5 Psalm 65:4 Psalm 17:15
If we keep the Lord before us as our Satisfaction we shall not be moved.We must focus our attention on Him as our Satisfaction who will satisfy the deepest longings of our heart.The Lord is our Satisfaction and He will satisfy us with Himself.We need not chase the vanities of life to find inner satisfaction.When we keep the Lord before us we shall not be moved by the worldly distractions that we face in our life.
*******************************************************
MESSAGE -11
STRONG FOUNDATIONS FOR FRUITFUL CHRISTIAN LIVING
OUTLINE
1.CASE-STUDY
2.CROSS
3.CONSOLATION
4.COMPARISON
5.CONFIDENCE
6.CHALLENGE
7.CHOICE
THE MESSAGE
STRONG FOUNDATIONS FOR FRUITFUL CHRISTIAN LIVING
1.CASE-STUDY
James 5:10 I Corinthians 10:1-12 II Peter 2:1-22 Jude 1:1-25
Numbers 12:1-15 Numbers 16:1-50
The Bible records the true life incidents of God’s dealing with men which serves as an example for us today. We must consider them as a case-study for our benefit .They are recorded in the Word of God to serve as a warning for us so that we could avoid making the same mistakes and thus avoid facing the same consequences.Thus these case studies would provide a strong foundation for our christian living.
2.CROSS
I Corinthians 1:18 Luke 14:27 I Peter 2:21 Philippians 3:18
The Cross is the basic foundation of our Christian life.Jesus carried His cross and every disciple of Jesus must carry his or her cross.The cross represents surrendering our will to the will of God and living with eternity in mind.The cross requires our repentance and submission and humility.Living in submission to the will of God is a strong foundation for our christian living.
3.CONSOLATION
II Corinthians 1 :3-7
The consolation of God in the midst of our trials and tribulations is a strong foundation for our christian life.We should not live in continous sorrow and sadness because of our suffering.As sufferings increase the consolation of God also increases. Thus we can be joyful in tribulation and we can comfort others who are in sorrow. Living in the comfort and consolation of God is a strong foundation for our Christian living.
4.COMPARISON
Romans 8:18 Mark 10:29-30
There must be a comparison of our present sufferings with the glory that is to be revealed.Often God’s children focus only on their present sufferings and forget the glorious reward that is waiting for them.This causes them to become gloomy and feel hopeless.But when we compare our present suffering with the glory that is waiting for us we will not get easily discouraged.God promises a hundred fold reward for everything we sacrifice for Him.
5.CONFIDENCE
Hebrews 10:35 Mark 11:22-24 Job 13:15
Confidence and faith in God is a strong foundation for our Christian living.We must pray in faith to receive answers from God.We should not lose confidence even in difficult times.This confidence has a great reward. we must trust in God even when we dont understand everything that He does in our life.This unshakeable confidence in God is a strong foundation for our Christian living.
6.CHALLENGE
Psalm 84:5-7 Esther 4:16
Taking trials and tragedies as a challenge is a strong foundation for our Christian life.Those whose strength is in God pass through the valley of tears and turn it into well.They do not drown in the valley of tears they pass through but convert it into a well where others could benefit through their experiences.Esther faced a terrible dilemma but she took it as a challenge and saved her whole nation from destruction.
7.CHOICE
James 1:5-8 Joshua 24:15 Deutronomy 30:19 I Kings 18:21
Making a choice and taking a decision is a strong foundation to our Christian living.Indecisive people will not receive anything from God.Our progress in our Christian life depends on taking strong and clear decisions.God does not want us to be wavering .He wants us to make a clear choice to serve Him whole heartedly which will bring abundant blessings into our lives.
*******************************************************
MESSAGE-12
HE LEADETH ME , O BLESSED THOUGHT !
OUTLINE
1.LEAD ME IN THE PATH OF RIGHTEOUSNESS
2.LEAD ME IN THE TRUTH
3.LEAD ME BESIDE STILL WATERS
4.LEAD ME TO THE ROCK THAT IS HIGHER THAN I
5.LEAD ME IN THE WAY EVERLASTING
6.LEAD ME IN THE WAY OF PROFIT
7.LEAD ME IN THE WILDERNESS
THE MESSAGE
HE LEADETH ME , O BLESSED THOUGHT !
1)LEAD ME IN THE PATH OF RIGHTEOUSNESS
Psalm 5:8 Psalm 23:3 Psalm 27:11
When we follow the Lord , He leads us in the path of righteousness. This is the path of safety especially when we are surrounded by dangers and snares which are ready to trap us.
2)LEAD ME IN THE TRUTH
Psalm 25:5
When we follow the Lord , He leads us in the truth.This is the path of truth that will keep us from going astray especially when we are surrounded by false teachings which are trying to deceive us.
3)LEAD ME BESIDE STILL WATERS
Psalm 23:2
When we follow the Lord , He leads us beside still waters.This is the path of rest and refreshing which will strengthen us especially when we are tired and weary of the burdens and pressures of life which tries to discourage and drown us in depression.
4)LEAD ME TO THE ROCK THAT IS HIGHER THAN I
Psalm 61:2
When we follow the Lord , He leads us to the rock that is higher than us. This is the path of elevation and refuge which will lift us higher than the waves which are trying to drown us especially when we are overwhelmed and think that our trials are beyond our ability to bear.
5)LEAD ME IN THE WAY EVERLASTING
Psalm 139:23-24 Luke 14:12-14 Matthew 6:1-6 Matthew 25:31-46
When we follow the Lord, He leads us in the way everlasting. This is the path of eternal benefit which will cause us to live our life in such a way that would bring us great reward in eternity especially when we are tempted to waste our efforts to get some earthly benefit.
6) LEAD ME IN THE WAY OF PROFIT
Isaiah 48:17
When we follow the Lord, He leads us in the way of profit. This is the path of fruitfulness and blessing which will prevent us from wasting our life in futile and barren efforts especially when we are tempted to rely on our wisdom instead of seeking the guidance of God.
7)LEAD ME IN THE WILDERNESS
Deutronomy 8:2-3
When we follow the Lord , He leads us in the wilderness.This is the path of trials and testings to prove our love and obedience to God as well as to help us to rely on His promises especially when we go through wilderness experiences where there is no earthly source of help.
*******************************************************
