A Look at the Book #447

A Look at the Book #447

by Jesse Abel

Daily Devotional – A Look at the Book #447

A Thought for today by Papa “J”

Ever feel as if you have been surrounded by lions, or maybe fallen into a pit? If you are honest this moment you will say yes! But if you are being dishonest, you may be one of the lions or be holding the shovel.

A PLAN FOR THE DAY

Volkswagen Beetles were just gaining popularity in the U.S. as 1960 rolled in. The Captain of the ship brought a new Beetle and he made it a point to park away from the rest of the cars and also did not use his parking spot on the pier since it was too close to the salt water. A few blocks from the ship was an abandoned storage building so the C.O. decided to park next to the loading dock of the building. About a half dozen sailors coming back to the ship from the Enlisted Men’s Club (a nice name for a bar) decided to see if they could pick up the Volkswagen and place it on the dock. After a couple of tries they succeeded, of course when the Captain decided to go home later in the day, he was so surprised that he took away the liberty (time off) for the whole crew of the ship, including his officers until the two things happened. One: The VW was placed harmlessly back from whence it was taken, and Two: That the men who did this dastardly deed owned up to it! Immediately, the car was placed back from where it had been taken, but nearly a week went by before us sailors came forward and as a punishment we were restricted to the ship for the remainder of our stay in port; about 3 weeks. The weight of sin in a person’s life is far heavier that any man made object. When that weight is lifted you will find joy through the Blood of Christ resulting in God’s forgiveness. Psalm 32:1-11

James 3

James 3:6 – Some of us make good investigators; we listen, we search and we walk to and fro. In the midst of this behavior, there is little wrong as there is nothing wrong to investigate, to hear, to search or to walk about. However; when this is done in a motive of ungodliness it is a flame of burning desire from an evil heart. Solomon says that the lips open and the tongue wags and that the best of friends are separated forever. Do not use your tongue to destroy, since it is more destructive than a bullet in the heart. Proverbs 16:27-28.

James 3:7 – As humans we do very well in controlling animals and other beasts of the wild, and yet no one seems interested in controlling the tongue! It never fails too; that whatever I build up with my hands or in conversation, someone always comes from behind with another view and sets it on fire with their tongue. We put out burning buildings at the local fire department and while the blasé is being quenched, you can hear the critical voice of some ignorant firefighter’s tongue. Really, so who is the one who will put out that fire from the evil tongue?

I like what the writer of Hebrews has to say about Christ who was offered to bear the sins of many in Hebrews 9:28. But it is the verse before, which will stop the tongue of those who like to use it as an arsenal of uncontrollable fire. This judgment is coming and no one will escape it. Hebrews 9:27.

A Look at the Book #446

A Look at the Book #446

by Jesse Abel

Daily Devotional – A Look at the Book #446

A Thought for today by Papa “J”

We should do well to know that God; His Son and His Spirit are not a concept of mankind. “Come near to Me, hear this: I have not spoken in secret from the beginning; from the time that it was, I was there. And now the LORD God and His Spirit have sent Me”. Isaiah 48:16 and Hebrews 10:5-10

A PLAN FOR THE DAY

Sea stories; some people like to read from a sailor’s point of view with all the salt. You will not read the salt here; but here is the story. After a few months on board the Searcher; all of my shoes were riddled with paint, even my so called, dress shoes. The leading Boatswain Mate who held his own clothing inspection most every morning decided to have us wear our dress shoes for inspection. All of the sailors around me had nice shinning shoes. Mine were shinny but had grey and white poke-a-dots here and there. When the Boatswain looked down at my shoes I watched his jaundiced face turn red and when his normally yellow eyes became narrow and piercing, I feared the worst. With a long discourse of words that only make sense to a sailor he said a few understandable words that went something like this. “I ain’t throwing you in jail sailor! If you don’t get a better pair of shoes on, I’m throwing you under the jail. Now get below decks and put on some better shoes” Some day soon we will be presenting our soul to the LORD for a final inspection. God is not a Boatswain and He will not curse the cursed, but is long suffering, in that you and I should repent. 1 Peter 3:9. Another interesting verse in Matthew 25:41 tells me that it would be better if God were a Boatswain Mate. Under this jail would be a better place to dwell in; rather than the eternal state of everlasting fire prepared for the devil and his angels. Better explained in 2 Peter 3:9-13.

James 3

James 3:3 – One of the ways that I am encouraged by the Holy Spirit’s use of the writers of the Holy Bible is the way they explain the absolute truth of God to their readers. Truth is literal and should relate to you and me examples that are understandable to our everyday exposure to God. If we are cowboys or cowgirls and know how to ride a horse; then from that point of knowledge we should be able to understand the stewardship of living a life under the blessings of godly living.

James 3:4 – Of course if we have more understanding about ships, rudders, winds and oceans and while the literal truth of godly stewardship does not change; since God remains immutable. Thus in His wisdom, He can use men and women of all walks of life and all nationalities to communicate His message of love, hope, joy and forgiveness. It is said, that Jesus is the best story teller the world has ever had the blessing to hear speak and just reading the epistle of James, makes me understand that some of this rubbed off on His half-brother.

James 3:5 – Ever notice that the tongue bleeds into the pen and that the pen bleeds onto the paper below it. If there is fire in the tongue, it will find the way to the paper. One small spark from an evil tongue will burn up several reams of paper. You might want to think that this is just a game with words, sort of a gimmick one might use to sell car. But look; look at the volumes of literature that seeks to destroy God, yet the Holy Bible IS; and does not change and God IS; the Rock that will not fail. Isaiah 44:6-8

A Look at the Book #445

A Look at the Book #445

by Jesse Abel

Daily Devotional – A Look at the Book #445

A Thought for today by Papa “J”

If you really want to create a dead moron instead of a living genius; just set the child on a chair and give him or her something to do with their fingers. Then when they are old enough, give them the keys to your car! Proverbs 22:6

A PLAN FOR THE DAY

I was able to obtain a copy from the web of the Christmas Day; December 25, 1959. Friday: Plan of the Day for the USS Searcher – AGR 4. I tried to copy and paste it to this section of the devotional, but that did not work. I reported on board in September 1959, this was my first trip at sea and my first Christmas away from home; I was nineteen years old and unmarried. Also was a copy of the ships Christmas Menu that contained the following: Cream of Tomato Soup; Virginia Baked Ham; Roast Turkey; Candied Sweet Potatoes; Mashed Potatoes; Buttered Peas; Buttered Corn; Raisin Sauce; Giblet Gravy; Lettuce Wedges; Sliced Tomatoes; French Dressing; Mayonnaise Dressing; Assorted Olives and Pickles; Mixed Nuts; Fruit Cake (leftover from WWII); Coffee; Milk; Tea; Cigars and Cigarettes. Why should you be interested in this? This was sixteen years before Jesus got my attention and saved me. Truly I could wish that I had known Him then since that Christmas would have had more meaning than just making sure that I got my share of cigars and cigarettes that day fifty two years ago. It seems to me that if you do not know your Creator personally that you will burn a path to your grave and leave no evidence of ever having lived. The evil counsel of life in the world leads away from God. Proverbs 1:8-19.

James 3

James 3:1 – If you are a teacher of the Living Word of God this verse of scripture is like thunder in you mind. It is a stern warning from this disciple and half-brother of Jesus. Jesus who did not stumble, who was obedient even to His death was sinless. The observation of James is first hand and his awareness of his own failures will unfold here in these two verses. Remember when Jesus was ridiculed by His half-brothers; James and Jude during the Feast of Tabernacles John 7:1-9

James 3:2 – Teachers must fully comprehend that the doctrine we share with others is not our own. Even Jesus obeyed and taught the Father’s Will, under the Father’s Authority. Notice the following passages in John 7:16-19. Of course you know that in reading the whole seventh chapter of the gospel of John will explain even more about our Savior’s teaching ministry; remember too He is the LORD. Many leaders in our so called realm of Christendom teach the Holy Word of God with a humanistic agenda. This is madness and it is evil.

A Look at the Book #444

A Look at the Book #444

by Jesse Abel

Daily Devotional – A Look at the Book #444

A Thought for today by Papa “J”

The necklace symbol hanging from the neck gives outward evidence of what might be going on in the heart even when the one wearing the necklace denies it. Evidence; that will one day, demand a verdict. Lamentations 1:14.

MORE THOUGHTS

The USS Searcher was one of about twelve ships that were purchased by the Navy and redesigned to accommodate large radar and detection equipment. The historical record of the these ships is interesting in that the average length of time to build one before the war was 230 days from the time the keel was laid. About 7.6 months. During World War Two the ships were produced and outfitted at one every 42 days. The ships were called “Liberty Ships”. The ships were built by various shipyards within the United States; eighteen in fact and over 2,500 of these ships were produced. During the war, these vessels were used to send military cargo to the war front in Europe, the idea was to build a ship that could make one trip and if it made it across the ocean and was not sunk by German U-Boats then it was a success story. About 850 of these ships were lost to the U-Boats. Another interesting fact is that most of the engine room scenes of the 1997 film Titanic were shot aboard the museum Liberty Ship SS Jeremiah O'Brien in San Francisco Bay. Scott Sigler's book Nocturnal also has several scenes that take place on the Jeremiah O'Brien. Now why do I explain all of this to you? History has interesting events that present one object in various phases of use and development. When mankind uses his wisdom and talents for good; good things happen and history never fails to tell the truth. If my people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land. 2 Chronicles 7:14

James 2

James 2:24 – We teach and preach that in order for one to stand before God as JUSTIFIED that he or she must believe in Jesus Christ (John 1:11-13; Acts 16:30-31 and Romans 10:9-10). True justification then has historical evidence of various works. You know; like taking a fisherman who does not depart from this basic talent to catch fish. Yet by the grace of God will learn or reshape that trade to include the spiritual talent of fishing for man. Matthew 4:18-22. Justification does not accommodate the works of man; justification glorifies God who redeems life.

James 2:25 – Well, do we say once a mere fisherman always a fisherman and once a harlot always a harlot? History again does not change a ship of the sea into an airplane in the sky, but history does reveal that an object of disrespect or of lower rank can be made into an object of glory. Even as a marriage between what one might be titled as common to another who might be titled royalty. God has taken the common sinner and by working justification presents him or her to His Son; Jesus. Resulting in a royal wedding called the Marriage supper of the LAMB. Revelation 19:1-10

James 2:26 – What if your vile body has no spirit for this kind of historical process, oh friend; my heart cries for you to repent. This tells me that you are dead to life. Not the life that you are living, which is empty and without the truth that history reveals, but like the idols of your idolatrous nature. You have eyes but you do not see, ears but you do not hear and a mouth but you do not speak. This is simply but profoundly dead works and you do not need me to tell you, because in your heart of hearts – you know this is true since it is your historical moment! Isaiah 44:9-20.



A Look at the Book #443

A Look at the Book #443

by Jesse Abel

Daily Devotional – A Look at the Book #443

A Thought for today by Papa “J”

The body language of the sinning person is a communication of walking, sitting or standing in a conversation of scorn. The chatter within a room full of scorners cannot be understood, but are like chaff in the wind. Psalm 1:1; 1:4.

MORE THOUGHTS

My first ship in the Navy was like a huge bowl in the water that barely had enough power to get out of its own way. Eleven point six knots was the top speed. For you land acquainted folks (lubbers) that is eighteen point five miles per hour. So when the ship would be off duty and heading for home it was always nice to have a patrol pattern that was near to Newport, RI. Most of the patrols were in the North Atlantic, but some were in the South. Those southern trips were nice and warm but usually a thousand or more miles from home and at full speed which could not be maintained all the time, it would take at least ten days of travel to get home. As sailors we would complain; “we will never get home at this speed, let us throw stuff overboard and make the ship lighter. Of course a sailor would have no problem adding a little spice to his comments. If we are to know wisdom, the wisdom that comes from God, then it would be very important to ask God to teach us how to number our days (Psalm 90:12) rather than to burn the days up with a tongue of scorn. The thief of life stands at the door and with little warning he will rob you of your rewarding countenance toward God; Genesis 4:1-15. And there is a coming of the Day of the LORD, that some say it will never come. These are complainers and slackers of faith and the apostle Peter explains that these folks have willfully forgot that the promises of God are “YES” and “SO BE IT” (yea and amen). 2 Peter 3:1-13.

James 2

James 2:19 – Religion, or the expression biblical faith is the theme of this epistle. The outward expression of faith in God is considered by most of the world to be proof of faith. James is putting it bluntly here in this verse. It is useless to say that you believe that God is One God, even the devils believe this and they tremble.

James 2:20-21 – He says that this faith is foolishly empty, a reference to the power of this sort of faith. The faith that God is looking for in us is the same faith found in Abraham and Jesus Christ. A sacrificial faith, the faith that allows God the Father to present His Son to us as the LAMB and a father like Abraham who was willing to present his son Isaac to God as a sacrifice. “My son, God will provide for Himself a sacrifice… Genesis 22:8.

James 2:23 – Faith in God goes beyond the personal effort of one to make themselves pleasing to God. Faith is a two way communication. First, in that God proves Himself to be faithful through His work of creation; Psalm 19:1-6; the assurance of His Word; Psalm 19:7-11; and by His total forgiveness of our lack of faith; Psalm 19:12. Our work of faith then; which is very small but sufficient if found in Psalm 19:13-14. In other words, we must be willing to see that God is faithful, before we can produce works of faith pleasing to God.

A Look at the Book #442

A Look at the Book #442


by Jesse Abel

Daily Devotional – A Look at the Book #442

A Thought for today by Papa “J”

Something that is disagreeable from the past! Have you ever had this experience? Well if you are a consumer of alcohol you would call this experience a, “hangover”! Yet there are many of us today that carry disagreeable experiences which are called, “guilt”. While not one in the same; both destroy relationships!

MORE THOUGHTS

The very first ship that I was stationed on was the USS Searcher (YAGR-4). It was a radar picket ship, now most people younger than 55 would not have a clue about these ships that played an important role in the North American Early Warning System. This was in place to warn the U.S. of possible invasion during the cold war period. The picture below brings back many memories for this old salt. If the LORD tarries I may have a tale or two to tell about this wonderful ship and others like her. I will with this devotional shut down until the Monday following the Celebration Day that the LORD is Risen, He has indeed Risen from the dead for you, for me and for as many who has ears to hear. Let them hear and be saved from this adulterous generation. Matthew 11:11-19.

THE PICTURE DID NOT TAKE TO THIS BLOG!

If you do a search for the ship, you can see the it in Wikipedia. Thanks.

James 2

James 2:18 – A friend and pastor who is now with the LORD would say that life in Christ is like breathing. We breathe in the Word of God and exhale the results. A person inhales and exhales without much thought or effort. A medical person would understand that the muscles that control the heart and lungs are “involuntary muscles” and not a voluntary or “skeletal” muscle; one that is controlled by conscious effort.

Now we can take a look at faith, the faith that James is sharing with his readers. Also, we need to know that all of the Word of God is alive and under the control of God the Holy Spirit. John 14:25-31 and if you desire peace in your mind regarding faith and works then you need to rely on God the Holy Spirit to bring you that peace.

If I have to show you that I have faith by doing a good work, then what I do is not involuntary, it is skeletal, maybe I will do a good work or maybe I will not. Faith, by sanctification through the Word of God will produce a good work out of the Spiritual will of God the Holy Spirit, or we can say the involuntary reaction of the grace of God in our life to produce the Will of God in any moment of our life in Christ. This is endurance of restful or labored expressions of faith in practice.

BE JOYFUL THIS WEEKEND – HE IS RISEN

A Look at the Book #441

A Look at the Book #441


by Jesse Abel

Daily Devotional – A Look at the Book #441

A Thought for today by Papa “J”

We have no doubt forgotten the prairie schooner. Our wagons of cross-country travel today are very much different except that the generated power is still measured in the power of the horse. If you are a thinker the potential is dynamic!

MORE THOUGHTS

Getusetavit! (Get use to it!) When I first heard that phrase I was listening to my wife talking about some critical thing she was explaining to her children. As the years past and those children grew, married and had children of their own. “Getusetavit” sort of faded out of her vocabulary. Actually, I forgot the phrase. But, just about two months ago, the family was all sitting together after a Sunday meal and out of the youngest daughter's mouth as she was talking to her son, I heard her say; “Getusetavit”. My first subconscious reaction was “I heard that before”! I was reminded that life takes the child out of the family, but also that life cannot take the family out of the child no matter how old the child is. This made me think too that when we come to know Jesus personally, He makes us a part of His Family and He challenges us as children growing up that His grace is sufficient for our everyday walk with Him. And, He as the loving Father that He always is says to us. “My grace is sufficient for you – Getusetavit”!

James 2

James 2:14 – Do we really practice what we preach? This is a serious question isn’t it? We identify ourselves with Jesus Christ, or as another scripture says that we put on the LORD Jesus Christ and we are to make no opportunity for the flesh. Romans 13:14 (Para). So James says that there is profit in true biblical faith, but should this profit be measured as saving faith? The answer is NO, but it does fit the picture. The faith in view here is sanctification faith, or faith that produces good works. Matthew 7:21-23. In other words; if you do not have evidence of sanctification faith in your life, you may not have experienced justification by faith. Ephesians 2:1-10.

James 2:15-16 – People, all people including you and me have needs; some of these needs are minor while others are overwhelmingly impossible to deal with. In our world today there are para-church organizations and other not for profit groups that want us to give to them to feed the poor, rescue the orphan and medicate the helpless. This is not the mandate of these two verses of scripture. This is simply the tactics generated by a profit and loss statement belonging to the greed and corruption of the world around us.

James 2:17 – But notice; James says that sanctifying faith does not stand alone; it is supported by production, or works. Again you begin to see the seriousness of faith and works. How does faith work if we seek to be justified by faith alone without any involvement of works? There are not two faiths are there? Of course not; but faith in and of itself is useless if it is not willing to meet the need of others. Faith is the substance of things hope for and the evidence of things unseen, this faith produces a good testimony. Hebrews 11:1-2 (Para).

A Look at the Book #440

A Look at the Book #440


by Jesse Abel

Daily Devotional – A Look at the Book #440

A Thought for today by Papa “J”

Ever reach out in a dream for a loved one who has passed away only to find that just as you reach them they seem to disappear? Ever reach out for God in a time of need and witness His Comfort and Deliverance. Big difference; huh! Jeremiah 33:3

MORE THOUGHTS

Down through the corridors of time; man has used shoes, shields, horses, chariots, swords, helmets, spears, arrows, darts, tanks, trucks, planes, bombs, guns, rifles, canons, ships, submarines, pots, pans, jars and candles to fight his wars. The battle still rages and man still dreams of the ultimate weapon; like the rocket, missile, and the intelligent weapons of the future. But war, the rumor of war and the harsh reality of the death of liberty remains in the face of every individual in the world of which we live. Why? Because; mankind has a problem with SIN and did you expect something more dynamic? Well if you did then shame on you! Why? Because there is nothing that mankind does that is more forceful than sinning against His Creator. You say that I have to do better then that to get this message across, well at first; I thought so too, but NO! No, I do not. Sin is why we fight, why we have greed in our heart and why we steal another person’s possessions. It is why our ability to love one another is tainted with selfish motivations. Sin is reason that we cry out… Crucify, crucify, crucify! Sin is enmity (hostility) toward God and played out in the lives of the people and nations around us. In spite of our sinful nature; there is hope for such a people as us. God does not forget His benefits toward us. He forgives our sins, heals our diseases, He also delivers us out of harms way, He is merciful, gracious, slow to anger and has not dealt with us according to our sins. We are murderers; yet God has not punished us according to our iniquities. Psalm 103:1-22. The slaughtered LAMB is RAISED from the dead. He is seated at the Right Hand of the Throne of God and is victorious over ALL SIN. His name is Jesus Christ. Worthy is the LAMB; Revelation 5:8-14. Yes, our sins are forgiven so stop rejecting God and begin believing in Him.

Soon the LORD Jesus Himself will appear in the skies and with a shout, the voice of an archangel and the sound of the trumpet of God, raise up His Church. Those who have died and those that still live will go to be with the LORD. The church and the message, along with the Power of God the Holy Spirit will be moved from earth to heaven. According to scripture, this will happen in a moment of time. Now if you dislike the word rapture, or if you do not believe that there will be a rapture; then sin is crouched at the door and you just might trip into the abyss as you cross the threshold of transgression against the Word of God. Try then to us the words; “caught up together with the LORD in the clouds of glory” This is the comfort of the rapture, we are even commanded to be comforting “one another” with this truth. 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18

There is in scripture a vivid picture of this truth. It is found in the book of Revelation. Revelation 4:1-4. John the apostle was hearing what the LORD had to say about the condition of His universal and local churches. As Jesus concluded His dictation of letters to the seven churches that John would write. John looked up toward heaven and noticed an open door. 1 Thessalonians 4:16 and Revelation 4:1. The apostle heard a command, “Come up hear and the voice was like that of a trumpet”. Immediately John was in the Spirit and immediately he was in the Throne Room of God. 1 Thessalonians 4:17; also see 1 Corinthians 15:50-52 and Revelation 4:2.

So here is the point; if you are not looking up for that “open door” into heaven, and with the Holy Spirit gone, you will be deceived, according to the working plans of Satan. 2 Thessalonians 2:1-14. So keep looking up, our redemption is drawing nearer with each moment in time. Have a blessed day and keep looking up!

A Look at the Book #439

A Look at the Book #439


by Jesse Abel

Daily Devotional – A Look at the Book #439

A Thought for today by Papa “J”

Our world is full of harshness, the result is bad news. Far too many of us blame God or the government. This is a serious offense of the one standing across from you in the mirror; a crime punishable by DEATH! The government is simply a tool of; we the people. However; with God we need to own up and be men! Isaiah 46:8-10

MORE THOUGHTS

This year marks roughly one thousand nine hundred eight four years since Jesus died on the cross for the sins of the world. Today, if you walk through a city you will find on almost every corner a church or a place of worship. Also, if you drive through the country side you will see church steeples or other evidence of worship centers. This is not isolated to just these United States of America, but in most parts of the civilized world you will find evidence of some form of worship or religion. The apostle Paul was keenly aware of this in his travels and he would look for this evidence in order to start up a conversation. In Acts 17:16-34 while traveling through Athens he noticed a local area called Mars Hill and saw various objects of worship. Even there was an altar with the words; “To The Unknown God”. Here is the point! If you do not know God, you cannot talk to Him, know Him or feel His presence. To you He is; The Unknown God. And being surrounded by all the objects of worship on most every street corner, how would one know which one is true? NONE of those buildings or objects contains the presence of God. However, God can be on the outside knocking to come in; Revelation 3:20. If you do what to know God, then do this – Believe that God who made the world and everything in it… gives assurance of His love for you by raising the dead. If you read the Acts account referenced above you will see that when these folks heard of the resurrection of the dead, some mocked, some said we will hear you again and some joined the apostle in belief. Now it is your turn, you may mock, you may listen again, or you may be wise and join us in believing.

The Epistle of James

James 2:10 – With less that a week to live we find Jesus giving counsel to a young man who says to Him. I have done all that the commandments of God from my youth. What do I still lack? Also in the Psalm of David, David says; “who can understand his errors? Cleanse me from secret faults. It really matters not if you are rich are poor in this world, what matters is the last two words of Matthew 19:21. “Follow Me!” it is not about me or my possessions. It is about Christ and His Resurrection.

James 2:11 – Today we do not need to look around the neighborhood for adultery and murder. There is evidence in almost every household that this activity goes on. Families are torn apart by the conduct of parents, children and other relatives. We are transgressors of the Law, remember in James 1:8, James calls the Law “royalty”. Could it be that if you transgress this law you are tossing reward out the window and replacing that reward with the harsh poverty of a worldly life?

James 2:12 – So you who are saved, you who are standing on the promises of God; how do you judge the law breaker? Do you condemn the household of the unjust and wish for them to burn in hell, or do you point them to the Noble One. James 1:7. It is impossible for anyone to completely obey the commandments of God, but there is Jesus who has in His obedience fulfilled the law and each one of us need to personally Follow Him. Show mercy to those who are in need of mercy, since mercy triumphs over judgment. James 2:13.

A Look at the Book #438

A Look at the Book #438


by Jesse Abel

Daily Devotional – A Look at the Book #438

A Thought for today by Papa “J”

In a world where everything decays with time it is great news to know that there is a truth, a Word even; that lives and abides forever. Do you want to live forever like this truth challenges us? Then do this: Believe it! The seed of the world is perishable with time. The Seed of eternity is non-perishable! 1 Peter 1:22-25.

MORE THOUGHTS

Here in New England and speaking from the longevity of living nearly three quarters of a century. I see that time and failed opportunity has taken a toll on life, liberty and the pursuit of the American Way. What do I mean should not surprise anyone since it matters not if you take it what is said personally or view it nationally, since the subject works both ways. I like the way Jesus puts it in this passage of scripture. “Enter by the narrow gate for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction and there are many who go in by it. Because narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it.” Matthew 7:13-14. At times in our Land the way through the narrow gate can be very visible; like this coming week. But in these days of our lives (not a dying soap opera) the gospel of God is neglected. The gospel is neglected in the souls of the saved and in the pulpits of churches all across this land. THERE IS A FAMINE in the Land, not of religion but of Truth. Religion this up coming week will speak of Palm Sunday, Holy Week and the passion of Christ. Some of you are saying; “so what is wrong with that?” If you throw in the word Easter (which is a rejection of the Resurrection) and speak of a feel good gospel; then you have made narrow the gate and made it difficult for those who are not saved to enter in through the only gate. Down through the corridor of time, if you care to look, you will see that religion is the “Broadway” that leads astray. Religion makes the gate narrow for the unsaved to see the LAMB of God “WHO” takes away the sin of the world. John 1:29-34. Jesus the Savior is now the Risen LORD. Matthew 28:1-20

The Epistle of James

James 2:7 – It will never be said enough through these lips of my. “I love the Word of the Living God”. If you cringe when you hear the noble name of Jesus spoken of in a blasphemous way, then you too love the Word and here is the reason. You have a spiritual state of mind. Notice what the apostle John has to say about this mindset in 1 John 2:12-17. Now you need to read this; otherwise what I write means nothing other than to tickle an emotion, maybe?

James 2:8 – Notice too that James says that the Name of Jesus is noble and in the next breath he says that the law of God is royalty. I cannot account for your feelings about this, but for me it sends this message to my soul that Jesus Christ in His nobility fulfilled the royal law of God. Wow! I can hardly contain myself that through the grace of God; I have believed in Jesus who fulfills the law of God, who also forgives me of my sin and who will one day allow me to enter in to HIS noble and royal kingdom. Tears of great joy run down my face, I just cannot contain the joy that overflows from these wonderful thoughts. You would do well to love your neighbor!

James 2:9 – Why is it important to get rid of partiality? Partiality is SIN. Some will say; BIG DEAL, I will just confess it and move on. Is this not just another way for you and me to blaspheme the noble name of Jesus and reject the royal law that He alone fulfills? Does this kind if thinking cut into the joy of knowing that your sins are forgiven? Don’t be foolish, the faith that James is talking about is the faith that endures to the ultimate DELIVERENCE of your SOUL and SPIRITUAL mindedness. Not the hearers but the doers; James 1:21-22.

A Look at the Book #437

A Look at the Book #437


by Jesse Abel

Daily Devotional – A Look at the Book #437

A Thought for today by Papa “J”

Want to be better at what you do today than you were yesterday? Someone might say no! But to those of you who seek understanding; not I but the LORD says to treasure His Words in your heart and apply your ear to His wisdom. Proverbs 2:1 and Proverbs 3:1. You do like length of days, do you not? Proverbs 3:2

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Warren Wiersbe writes in his book; “The Strategy of Satan” a simple but profound outline for understanding the work of the deceiver, better known to us as Satan. Mr. Wiersbe uses the well known passages of the fall of mankind in Genesis 3:1-24 as the foundational base of this outline. ONE: Satan has one target – your mind. TWO: Satan has only one weapon – the sword of lies. THREE: Satan has only one purpose – to make you ignorant of God’s Will and Purpose. These three attacks may not seem to us as a very important strategy, but one look around in your mind will tell you more about the devil’s success then looking at your neighbor! Jesus puts it this way in Matthew 7:1-6. So then the strategy of Satan is threefold and if you go to a church that teaches from the Word of God (The Holy Bible) you have heard of this threefold strategy from passages like this one found in 1 John 2:15-17. This threefold offensive attack of Satan is defeated since the beginning of time; even before the fall of Eve, so you might want to say; “so what is the problem”? The world (with you in it) is made ignorant of God’s Will and it would seem that Satan’s strategy is successful. Note the will and plan of God in these passages: Colossians 1:9-18 and Hebrews 10:5-10. Our defense against the strategy of Satan is to believe the Inspired Word of the Living God. Satan’s sword of lies is inferior to the Sword of the Spirit of God and to be victorious over the wiles of the devil you must be willing to use God’s Sword and wear the armor of God. Ephesians 6:10-20 or Romans 13:11-14. Apply your heart to the Word of God and live in victory over the devil’s strategy.

The Epistle of James

James 2:3 – When is the last time a new person walked into church and you did not size them up? Of course if you did not notice them there would be no “size up” but if you are honest with yourself you would need to agree with James here in these passages regarding partiality. You may literally ask the person to sit or stand in some unique spot in the church and think you are doing them a favor. I know just as you do that experience in congregational seating has positional preference. Even to the point of saying to the new person or persons; could you scoot over a couple of seats, brother soandso always sit here and then our politeness gets in the way because we fail to say – Thank you when they move.

James 2:4 – James goes on to say that any form of partiality is evil, so how is this true since it would seem in our way of thinking that we are only seeking to help and not hinder. In the processes of your mind while forming a request for the people to take up seating elsewhere is a judging factor. “The kid’s faces are dirty; or squeaky clean. The husband looks as though he would rather be fishing, and he needs to comb his hair, etc; etc! Matthew 7:1-6 quickly comes into play. It is another lie of Satan that you willing believe in order to get your way.

James 2:5 – It is God who chooses His Saints and not we ourselves, look around in the attic of your mind. Maybe there is a picture or two of you when you were unsaved and living the life of a dirty faced brat, or a squeaky clean nerd. Maybe you enjoyed combing your hair with an air compressor. Or maybe your servant made your day easy by placing everything at your fingertips. None of this matters, it is all vanity. The only truth is to be rich in faith and heirs to the kingdom of God, which God promises to those who love Him. Do you love God? Then do not dishonor the poor man who will be offended, or the rich one who will profit from your ignorance. James 2:6

A Look at the Book #436

A Look at the Book #436


by Jesse Abel

Daily Devotional – A Look at the Book #436

A Thought for today by Papa “J”

There is such a disagreeable odor within our nation, have you noticed? The idle conversation of the ignorant and the flattering lips of the lofty; is nothing more than a lot of bad breath. Do not be inconsistent with your speech; refresh your tongue and purify your heart by the Word of the LORD. Psalm 12:1-8.

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Against the backdrop of world population, there are not many people alive at any given time that has seen an iceberg. We hear stories of those who sail on the oceans, that do see these mammoth chucks of ice, and we have heard of the dangers associated with coming to close to one; like the RMS Titanic. About five percent of an iceberg is visible; the remaining volume of ice is beneath the surface. It is said; that what you cannot see will not hurt you, but in fact; that is a lie, the ninety-five percent of the iceberg that is unseen is a bone chilling destroyer. Using the iceberg as a parallel, let’s take a look at the national debt of the United States of America. What we Americans see; like the iceberg is a visible national debt of 12 to 20 trillion dollars. (Forty-five thousand dollars per citizen). That by itself is so alarming that we want to avoid it rather than look at it so we bury our head in our hands. What we do not see is far more serious since below the radar the U.S. national debt is 118 to 125 trillion dollars of hidden debt, or more understandable ($385,000.00 to $400,000.00 dollars per citizen in debt). Over fifty percent of this debt is owed to China and Japan each having about fifty percent. The other countries, the United Kingdom; Oil exporting countries; Caribbean Banking Centers; Brazil; Hong Kong and Russia. When you put all of this together the soil that you and I call our own, is NOT our own. Notice what king Solomon has to say about borrowing money. Proverbs 22:7-8 we have sown iniquity therefore we will reap sorrow. Should we conclude that there is no hope? For if our hope fails so will the nation. 2 Chronicles 7:14 so repent while there is time and while there is HOPE.

The Epistle of James

James 2:1 – There is only one LORD, one faith and one baptism. This is not hard for us to disagree about since the written Word even tells us that this in true; Ephesians 4:1-6. So also is the object of faith; One God. Religion can and does lose sight of this truth and the reason why is because religion uses the “cut and paste” method of applying faith to the wrong object. As James reveals here in chapter two; partiality faith will neutralize the glory of the LORD.

James does not say that we should be irresponsible stewards of the grace of God. It does not require faith to set in place checks and balances that protect the tangible and intangible assets of our local churches. We should always be good stewards; especially in the days we live in and be purposeful in our effort to protect the men, women and children who are considered the congregation.

James 2:2 – The rich and famous, the poor and the needy come to church and all these make up the congregation and we think nothing of it because the common faith we have in Christ does not always reveal this to us, nor should it. They are the regular folks, who by faith share in the grace of God, the also mingle and fellowship with us. When a new person shows up some churches will go all out to show some form of partiality. This is the wrong approach, it does not promote faith in God, but it does promote faith in a religion. If the LORD tarries, we will see more tomorrow, in the meantime; Beware of personal favoritism that destroys faith in God.

A Look at the Book #435

A Look at the Book #435


by Jesse Abel

Daily Devotional – A Look at the Book #435

A Thought for today by Papa “J”

Not all; but many professional and educated men and women in the medical and legal field make crime a way of life. They condemn the unborn to death and enact laws that prevent the elderly their final years of life. These same people will throw you in jail if you beat your dog. Is this a problem? Ecclesiastes 10:1-2

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Once the local ambulance was called to the scene of a party where two young girls had wandered into the street and one was sitting in the street while the other was laying down with her face resting on the pavement. Both were acting as though they were under the influence of some substance; but as an EMT you cannot be sure unless they tell you or someone else affirms it. I asked the one girl who was lying on the pavement to sit up and she told me that she did not want too because the pavement on her cheek was nice and warm and that she was cold. We got blankets for her and she was happy to have them and sat up. I asked her if she had been drinking and she told me that she had, that her and her friend were invited to a party and that both were being given drinks by the host. The girls were under age, they below eighteen years of age. Legally we could not take them to the hospital unless we had parental consent. So you guessed it, we obtained their parents telephone numbers with the help of the State Police who also arrested the host of the party who was a middle-aged man. Why do I tell you this since you may already be cognizant of this kind of activity? I tell you because it is not a condition of disease, or some other epidemic of life. It is a spiritual condition of a nation that falls from faith in God. It is the socialistic system of a nation whose god is their idols that enforce evil over good, instead of good over evil. Yet this system would be the first to say that it has religion and I would say, yes I do not deny this but this religion is described in. Psalm 115:1-8

The Epistle of James

This would not make headlines in Ripley’s believe it or not, but I do not look at this section of the devotional until I finish the two top sections, but lately it seems that God the Holy Spirit pulls the three sections together to get His point across. This is so amazing to me that I sometimes get all emotional inside. There is nothing like the joy of the LORD which makes headlines in the epistle of 1 Peter 1:8

James 1:25 – The psalmist David, in Psalm 19:7 says that the Law of the LORD is perfect, converting the soul. This should speak volumes to each of us; it is the word of the Living God who loves us, who writes to us words of Life. A life that refreshes the soul by providing liberty and freedom from the bondages from sin. Full and purposeful words; like Jesus died for sin, all sin. And He rose again from death to life, not some life but all life; to as many who will receive Him. The invitation is open, not closed as some might think. Hebrews 9:27-28

James 1:26-27 – There is a useless religion that most of the world practices, it is a self-condemning religion full of ritualistic lies that murder the orphan before breaching the womb and denies the right of passage of the widowed. But there is the pure of heart, the religion that is washed in the Blood of the LAMB and baptized in suffering of Christ. This religion in the eyes of God who approves the SON is pure and undefiled. This religion reaches out to the orphan and widow rescues them from the counterfeit and condemned religions and systems of the world.

A Look at the Book #434

A Look at the Book #434


by Jesse Abel

Daily Devotional – A Look at the Book #434

A Thought for today by Papa “J”

I wonder if you might share with me the joy of knowing that God is TRUE. Even in the simplest of things; men think that baldness is beautiful… have you noticed? But God says it is a sign of the times. Not good times but bad. Isaiah 3:24; even the whole chapter as Isaiah says that it is oppressive; the luxury of the Condemned.

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Have you been tempted to sin lately? I know that some who read this are not tempted to sin because these have not been justified (made alive in Christ), they are dead in sin; they are relatives of this death; Ephesians 2:1-2. But for those of us who are justified (made alive in Christ), we are being sanctified; we are being made relatives of Christ; and because of this process, temptation to sin becomes a real issue. One command of several surfaces in my mind and is found in Romans 13:14. Put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh, to fulfill its lusts. Yesterday, one of the brothers filled in for our pastor who in Thailand for a couple of weeks of ministry. Truth is TRUTH and in a teaching moment God the Holy Spirit will open to you the joy of scripture if you have an ear to hear what the Spirit is saying to the churches. The brother’s message was about the love of God; it was also about our love for God and our love for the people of God. Don’t miss this teaching moment! Jesus says, in John 13:31-35; “A new commandment I give you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another.” When Jesus says, “A new commandment I give you” He did not change the commandment, He simply added; “as I have loved you” to it. If we do not love one another as Christ loves us, then we have not put on the LORD (The Christ like appearance of sanctification) a spiritual growth condition that separates religion (legalism and liberalism) from relationship (children of God). 1 John 2:28 through 1 John 3:1-3

The Epistle of James

James 1:22 – Now doesn’t this verse fit so well with the Sunday message of my brother in Christ. Oh how we need to have brothers and sisters in the LORD who are doers of the Word. If you are going to church and been just a little observant you have no doubt noticed a physical condition that affects many people. I call it the “nod to God reflex”. Whenever the pastor says something that sounds good these folks simply nod to God their agreement but it is quickly forgotten, even before the next nod occurs. Sort of reminds me of acid reflux, maybe a shot of Pepto-Bismo would help?

James 1:23 – I would like to think that James is injecting a little humor here too. Why do we come to church in the first place? Do we not come for the purpose of putting off the old-man and putting on the new? 2 Corinthians 4:16-18, or Ephesians 4:22-24. If we are not going to church to learn to put on Jesus Christ, then why bother to go? If you go and cannot remember why you go; why cause yourself the heartburn of trying to remember what you ought to look like in His presence or the presence of your neighbor. In other words… STOP being phony!

James 1:24 – As quickly as the mirror dismisses the object when it moves out of view is as quickly the heart of the forgetful hearer removes truth. If you are interested in looking like Christ to your neighbor, just remember that if your neighbor already knows what you look like. He or she is not looking for a “new you” but they are looking for a reason to believe in Christ. You may be the only likeness of Christ they will ever see. We as believers in Christ must stop deceiving ourselves by being hearers – ONLY!

A Look at the Book #433

A Look at the Book #433


by Jesse Abel

Daily Devotional – A Look at the Book #433

A Thought for today by Papa “J”

The strong will to love and be loved is in the heart of every human being. How unfortunate it is to see men and women abuse this will with the evil intentions of selfish desire. Most of us have been the victim or the perpetrator, or both; but there is forgiveness for both! Jesus is the chosen Servant who heals. Matthew 12:1-8

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In days gone by; when computers did not do what is capable of today, the hard copy was a real factor to contend with. Buildings were built with storerooms that would contain boxes and volumes of hard copy files to be searched out by others for a history that the paper trail might reveal. What is unique about these storage vaults are the people who filed and filled those rooms. They are not infallible; but just ask them where the note is that was written by Mr. Whodoneit thirty years ago on the subject of; whatsit, and see how fast they retrieve it. Humanly speaking God does not have a fallible system or even a computer to know the past, the present or the future. In 1 Corinthians 1:18-31 through 1 Corinthians 2:1-16 the apostle Paul explains that the Living Word of God which he speaks of and writes about is a mystery. A mystery that was predetermined (in place) before time. Now this is important to grasp so pay attention. Everything in time is marred, tainted, abused and crushed by sin. Before time where eternity is everything is pure, perfect and without blemish. There is only One God, One Book about God and One way to God. God’s file cabinet for the earth (if you will?) is the; LAMB of God who carries or stores away the sin of the world. Everything humans do in the world is classified by God as; FRAUD, WASTE AND ABUSE (SIN). Isaiah 53:1-12. You see with sin filed away (neutralized) God can focus on the faith that produces endurance to accomplish the Will of God on the earth (time) as it is being accomplished in heaven (eternity). Matthew 6:9-15.

The Epistle of James

James 1:21 –We may not get past this verse today, but that is okay. What are you willing to lay aside, not just today but moment by moment as you make your way; and as John Bunyan might say in the journey of Life in Christ in that book titled; Pilgrims Progress. If you’ve not read this book, I do recommend it!

It is not an option as some might argue; we must be willing to lay aside the entire overflow of wickedness that spills out of our heart even though we are saved. (Haven’t you heard people say? Oh yes I am saved, but I am a sinner by nature and that is what 1 John 1:9 is all about). This mindset is not the endurance (work) of faith that God blesses. Endurance means to humbly, or with meekness to receive the implanted Word of God. I like that word implanted, I hope that God will help you to like it too. It is the Greek word emphutos an extension of the Greek verb phuo meaning to germinate or grow. The word in James 1:21 is used only once in the New Testament and notice what it means.

God the Holy Spirit implants the Living Word of God in our soul as we by diligent study to set aside our filthy works. Also there are two other Greek words to look at here. First the word sozo translated save in the English meaning to deliver, to heal, to preserve or protect. What is being protected, the next Greek word is; psuche and our English word is soul, and this should be most important to you. Only reconciled people will inherit the kingdom of God. Will that inheritance include your flesh and blood? Or; will it included only your soul? 1 Corinthians 15:50 will tell you the answer. So here is the point of the matter. If you are not involved with the endurance of faith as explained by James in this epistle then you are retaining wickedness in your heart., God’s will for you is to replace this sinful obesity with the Word which is able to deliver your lean soul into His kingdom, full and spiritually fit with the knowledge and wisdom of God.

A Look at the Book #432

A Look at the Book #432


by Jesse Abel

Daily Devotional – A Look at the Book #432

A Thought for today by Papa “J”

Encumbered means to be pinned down, like a wrestler who is down for the count of three. The arms and legs may look as though there is activity, strength or a possible escape; yet all this movement simply wears out the one trapped. We are a nation that stands on the threshold of repentance or replacement. Luke 13:1-5

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I knew my dad as a warrior and not a father and it is very hard for me to formulate good words about him. As a family man he was a drunk, he was abusive and he was not faithful to his wife of sixty years. This is not a good report about a man, but none the less; he was a man; a warrior who stood tall in the Second World War. And with all these traits of unworthiness, it can truly be said that my brothers and I; loved him. As a family we suffered bondages that kept us in the dark and not all of us have escaped. Were it not for God’s love and grace, I would have perished! As a nation! One day in the future it is a good possibility that our grand children and great grand children will say as this small family has said. We loved our father! Yet our fathers were drunk with greed and abusive with selfish ambitions. Their traits in life were aimed at dishonoring God and they were unfaithful to our nation in their prosperous years. Now we suffer the bondages of loss of freedom, loss of liberty and loss of justice. We have not escaped because we did not seek God when He could have been found. Isaiah 55:6. The ONLY reason this nation finds it necessary to FUND Planned Parenthood is because the fathers of this nation have lost their worthiness to be called DAD! FATHERS you must change or there will not be enough “change” in your pocket to buy your child a piece of bread for the coming day!

The Epistle of James

James 1:19 – Did you know that the only breed of dog identified in the Bible is the Greyhound? Proverbs 30:31; we have a greyhound and yes! She is the fastest thing on four legs that we’ve ever owned. There is another quality about her that is seldom brought to light about these dogs. She like other greyhounds is swift to hear and slow to speak. Notice Proverbs 30: 32-33, maybe as parents we should have the perceptive qualities of a greyhound, rather than their physical ones? We run our mouth with hot air and spoil the milk, producing children of wrath. Ephesians 6:4

James 1:20 – Ever stop to think, we seem to run our mouth as if we know it all. We command and promise and we promise and command. We must sound like the drone of construction equipment in the neighborhood all the day long. Those annoyed cannot get away from the noise, so they learn to endure it by ignoring it. This does not produce righteous faithful works living. This is not the endurance that receives God’s blessing and reward.

So the qualities needed to endure the trials of life are available to all who will look to nature and man for solutions? Absolutely NOT! The quality of life that most of us look for but fail to find can only be found in the Word of the Living God, who will use what He has created to prove that He alone fulfills Life. You need only to read Psalm 19:1-14 to know that it is far better to be swift to hear and slow to speak. This is the only way to understand our errors and secret faults. Of course if you say that you have no errors or faults, you might have an excuse because you are deaf and dumb, but don’t count on it since I know some very smart, but classified as deaf and dumb relatives.

A Look at the Book #431

A Look at the Book #431


by Jesse Abel

Daily Devotional – A Look at the Book #431

A Thought for today by Papa “J”

It is said that people with doctorate degrees are practicing their profession. Don’t make light of this thought since good practice in this context; means to build good character and good discipline. In our homes we need to be good masters of integrity! Proverbs 22:6

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One of the best career changes while serving in the Navy was accepting orders to my first submarine. Also this change would never have happened if God did not step into my life and take charge of it. The change from surface ships to submarines is very different and the Navy is unique that way, for example; a West coast sailor operates differently than the East coast sailor, the Airman in the Navy operates in different ways from the Submarine sailor and the Surface sailor. Each branch of this one Navy has unique operating procedures that separate one from the other, even the jargon of these branches differ, making communication within the Navy, confusing. So, just what is the point? All wear the same uniform, all enlist with the same opportunities and all practice the Uniform Code of Military Justice, so just what is the point? People on this earth are similar in many ways; all have commonality belonging to one nation, but within the nation these people differ in performance. All practice some form of national law common to their nation. All wear the clothing of their culture and all speak the language of their culture, but some dialects make for confusing conversations. The bottom line: In this pile of words is a change that really makes the difference that all should come to know. “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.” John 3:16. “When God steps into your life”.

The Epistle of James

James 1:17 – Have you ever planned for a birthday party or some event that would give good things to another person? Of course you have. Bridal showers, baby showers, anniversaries and other events that promise to encourage the heart of another. God is planning such an event. It is called the marriage supper of the LAMB. Revelation 19:1-7. Before this event happens thought God in His grace gives to His children gifts that lead the way. What are these gifts? Longsuffering, mercy, grace, peace and everlasting life, these gifts are perfect and these gifts are from above. These gifts light the path as He is not willing that any should perish. Psalm 119:105

James 1:18 – The foundation of Truth does not stand on this disciple of God. This is what James is saying here, the foundation of Truth stands on the Will of God alone by the Word of Truth alone. The proof that this is God’s will and not man’s is these men who stand on this foundation are still standing, still witnessing and are still pillars of Truth from the beginning, “first fruits” of truth that carry the gospel message down through the centuries. Who are they? They are; James, John, Paul, Luther, Chafer, Graham and others too numerous to mention. But these men are not the truth. They all spoke of the Truth, who is Jesus Christ the Son of the LIVING God. John 14:1-6.

Faith without works is dead, James in his epistle is not talking about helping little old ladies find an open seat to sit in on Sunday mornings at church (although this is needed). James is talking about living faith. Faith that is produced by endurance and shaped by the promise that God does not lie. Titus 1:2.

A Look at the Book #430

A Look at the Book #430


by Jesse Abel

Daily Devotional – A Look at the Book #430

A Thought for today by Papa “J”

The world around every individual is a harsh place. One way to overcome the harsh world is too delete the “L” out of “world” then you have the WORD, who is none other than the LORD who is the fullness of joy! 1 John 1:1-4. I love to play with words, notice this; from the world, I come to the word and learn that He is the LORD. With God there is ORDer!

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Back in my office I was going over the duty roster, eliminating people who were not there and adding people who were. I was building my list to go and follow up or apologize; as needed when the phone rang. It was the XO; “Chief, I want you to come up to my stateroom, now!” “Yes sir, I will be right up”. Outside his stateroom door I prayed for strength, I knocked and the door immediately opened and his hand came out. From inside his room I heard him say, “I apologize; chief for the way I acted earlier, please accept my apology.” Again, the Holy Spirit spoke for me; “No sir, I will not accept your apology until I talk with you about Jesus Christ!” In his best controlled voice, he responded with; “okay, come in and have a seat!” He allowed me to talk at length about the LORD and he said that he would consider the things I said, but his main purpose was to reconcile our professional standing, in the end he said that my beliefs in God were personal and that he would not make a personal issue of my religion again. So I shook his hand and left his stateroom. The XO would soon be transferred to another duty station. Later in the following year I had heard as the rest of ship’s crew did that the XO had died. I can only hope that he considered salvation as his only option that day in his stateroom.

The Epistle of James

We need to be reminded that James is talking to the children of God; saints! Oh, let’s make it a little more personal. If you are “born again” he is talking to YOU! Do saints sin? “If I say, you bet your bippie they do” and I cause you to bet it, then I have sinned, by causing you to sin, by gambling away your bippie! Got it?

James 1:15 – There could be no clearer analogy than a pregnancy to explain the development of sin in the believer. First there is the influence from the flesh, then the desire of the flesh. As the fullness of the flesh grows there is the final stage of the pregnancy – BIRTH, but in this case it is not a daughter or son of joy, but a SIN of pleasure to gratify the flesh. As the sin matures it will bring forth spiritual death. Now, the sad thing is that most of us have experienced this death of the spirit and some who without repentance are still abiding in this death.

James 1:16 – This verse does not look like a strong command from James, but it is one of the strongest commands he will use in this epistle. Look at this verse and see the tough love of God that says with a strong commanding voice; DO NOT BE DECEIVED but with the same voice a commanding comfort; MY BELOVED brothers and sisters. The only abortion that God allows for in His word is when His saints abort sin before it is conceived.

Fall in love with the Word of God. It is the only love that brings peace to the soul, hope for the heart and healing for broken spirit. Proverbs 17:22 says this; A merry heart does good, like medicine, but a broken spirit dries the bones; Proverbs 12:25; 15:13 and 15:15. Let God fill your heart with good things, good things that only He can provide as we will see tomorrow in James 1:17-18; if the LORD tarries.

A Look at the Book #429

A Look at the Book #429


by Jesse Abel

Daily Devotional – A Look at the Book #428

A Thought for today by Papa “J”

Since January 20t, 2011 – I lost 52 “T’s” from the Devotionals and only one person noticed. Thanks for finding them Joe! See if you can find where it was left out and if you wish, let me know? This is why I love the One who fulfills the Law. Matthew 5:17-20, the missing “jot” is underlined for today only.

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I gathered myself to my office and prayed, asking God for help. I knew that the XO was mad, I had also seen his temper in action before. I was a little weak in the knees but there I was, standing outside the Wardroom door. I knocked and immediately the door opened, it was the XO. He grabbed me by the shirt and pulled me into the room. Several officers and chiefs were present. His face was full of rage. Had I had taken too long to come to the Wardroom? He said; “Chief, I ought to punch you square in the face for using my training time to preach about your Jesus.” My knees that were weak and my composure strengthened. In a very serious tone I heard myself say, “Sir, if it will make you feel better; please, take this opportunity to punch me in the face”. He let go of me and stepped back, gathering his composure he said. “Chief, this is what I want you to do, I want you to go to each person who was at that training session and apologize for using my time to preach a sermon, now get out!” I went out the door of the Wardroom rejoicing since the Holy Spirit allowed me to do two things that day: One to suffer for my Savior, and two; to follow up on my training message to each person who was present. Here is another point. I my mind I did not preach that day; I simply read from SOARM the regulation for Sunday Services on board the ship, then I quoted; 1 Timothy 2:1-6 but to the XO those verses were preaching. More tomorrow!

The Epistle of James

James 1:12 – Temptation is not sin and it seems that so many of us when faced with a temptation of any kind assume the worst. I think this is why the dessert at meal time is hidden out of view, for if it were in view, I might be tempted to eat the dessert first and ruin my health over the long haul. Every moment of life carries the potential of making the wrong choice and sinning against God. We do not have to learn how to sin, but we do have to learn how to avoid sin when temptation is present. Endurance is evidence of faith at work and a working faith is always rewarded by God.

James 1:13 – As believers in Christ, it is easy to blame God for our failure in temptation. To do so is a misapplication of scripture since God is the only One who can deliver us from temptation to victory. Matthew 6:13. The holiness of God prevents God from being tempted with evil, so in order for you and me to avoid the temptation of evil we must be willing to run to the only One capable of rescuing us. Do not be double minded, be endurance minded. Notice what Azariah said to Asa in 2 Chronicles 15:1-2.

James 1:14 – Each of us are tempted to sin against God. This is not a once a day event, it is a moment by moment event in everything we do. Temptation is the work of the carnal minded (fleshly); endurance is the work of the spiritually minded. We as believers in Christ are always in the battle of these two natures in us. One is the natural condition of our human carnal minds when temptation gives way to sin; the other is the supernatural condition of our spiritual endurance to draw near to God and His Holiness. Do not be drawn away from Him since each time you do, it is SIN.

A Look at the Book #428

A Look at the Book #428


by Jesse Abel

Daily Devotional – A Look at the Book #428

A Though for today by Papa “J”

The LORD blesses His own as a father blesses his family, but there is a difference to be aware of. The blessings of the LORD come without sorrow of heart. Think about it! Proverbs 10:22; just ask Him Matthew 7:7-12.

MORE THOUGHTS

The Executive Officer who is the second in command was walking toward me with a large book in his hand. Submarine sailors call this book the “sore arm” because it is so big and heavy. “Naw!” The acronym for the Ship’s Operational and Readiness Manual is (SOARM). As he came near he stopped me and said; “Chief I want you to give training out of the (SOARM) this evening to your duty section.” “Okay” I responded, “what would you like for me to train the section on?” “You pick it” he said; “since there are plenty of subjects to choose from.” Later when I had a few minutes to look the book over, I notice a regulation about Sunday Religious Services. “Wow” I thought, this will be just what we all need to hear, so I prepared about a half hours worth of material for the evening training. With my duty section in front of me and with the Executive Officer and a few of his officers and chiefs behind me, I began the training session. Normally the duty section sleeps during these sessions. What ever reason that comes to your mind for sleeping through training will work. Not so on this night, every eye was on me, or on the officers and chiefs behind me. Every ear heard what I had to say and if I had turned around to see the Executive Officer’s face I would have seen the venomous anger accumulating. At the end of the training, he tapped me boldly on the shoulder and said, “come to the wardroom, I have a few words for you.” Hold that thought till Monday please and think the about CRITICAL anger in the heart of man toward his Creator the LORD Jesus Christ. John 1:1-5 the word, Word here in these passages is reference to the person of Jesus Christ.

The Epistle of James

James 1:9 – In the boiling pot the water temperature can vary, at the bottom of the pot the temp is 212 degrees and as the water stirs from the boil the surface water cools a bit and so in comparison, some people boil with degrees of integrity and popularity, yet in God’s economy these are at the bottom of the pot. Others express the coolness found in drinkable coffee, at the top of the pot. Both of these conditions have their praise worthy attributes and James is exhorting both degrees of life to look at the positive attributes rather than the negatives, as we will see, both are equal in the eyes of the LORD.

James 1:10 – This humiliation of the exalted poor over the rich is simply to place all of mankind in the same playing field. Ever play in a field of spring and summer flowers? Surely you have! Spring flowers produce the same glorious beauty in those cool months as the summer ones do in the hotter months. What is most interesting is that the spring flower, just as the summer flower knows it’s proper season of time and both pass away, on time!

James 1:11 – I cannot say this enough! “I love the Word of God” The heat of life brings some of us to a boil, but it matters not where you and I are in the heat of living life. What matters is that we know there will be an end to this life. The rich or the poor cannot extend their life to pursue riches or poverty, both will fade away just as the spring and summer flower. What really matters is obedience to the Living Word of God, who is none other than the LORD Jesus Christ. John 6:27-29.