This Present World

 Titus 2:12

Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world.

The grace of God (Jesus)through His death and resurrection saved us from eternal death. His teachings were taught among us. His teachings are relevant for this day, for this culture in this present world. We live in a world that seeks the pleasures of self gratification. Immoral and temporal desires that are forbidden in His Word. Temptation is real and Christian are not exempt. By the grace of God, we deny those things that are ungodly and draw us away from God. We have but one life to live and give, we should not live it frivolously and flippantly, but soberly, guarding our action and behavior to always please Him. A godly life is possible in this present world, Jesus made this possible if we cast our cares on Him, trust Him to give us the strength in the time of need.

For Those Who Are Thirsty

 Rev.21:6

And he said unto me, It is done. I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. I will give unto him that is a thirst of the fountain of the water of life freely.

The old world has passed away and a new world has been created. It is done! The end of the world as we know it has come to an end. Those who have searched for eternal life will be given the water of life. Those who have lived for self and refused to submit to Christ will be cast into the lake of fire. Such are those who have lived sinful and wicked lives. Consuming the deeds of the flesh in ways that God’s word has forbidden. The promise is given today, to forsake the ways of the flesh, take the living water, and believe in the Alpha and Omega. He who is timeless. For in Him, all things consist, for He is in all things. The day is coming. We do not know the time or day, but Jesus said, “Write: for these words are true and faithful.” For those who thirst and hunger after righteousness shall be filled.

Not By Faith Alone

 Jame 2:20,24, 26

 But wilt thou know, O vain man, that faith without works is dead?...Ye see then how by works a man is justified, and not by faith only… For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also.

 

It would appear that James had something to say about getting saved or being justified before God. Paul is pretty clear that we are saved by grace, through faith, and that it is not by works or by any merit in ourselves. James is not saying that works will save you, but if you have faith that God has saved you, this faith will be demonstrated in the way you live your life. How can a person be delivered from sin, receive God’s gift of salvation and not love your neighbors by spreading works of love and kindness. A person who is hateful and selfish must examine their heart to see if they have truly believed. It could be that their faith, or belief was an intellectual acceptance to truth and not a faith that submitted to the practice of that truth. James points out that even devils could believe, and that does not save them. He who commits works of evil is of the devil, the father of deception. John was clear when he said, “He that commits sin is of the devil.” It was for this purpose that Christ came, to destroy the works of the devil. Faith in Christ will destroy the works of sin in our lives and allow us to manifest the works of godly living, doing what is right and good in the world we live in.

Letter of Recommendation

 1 Corinth 3:2
Ye are our epistle written in our hearts, known and read of all men:
 
I often write letters of recommendation for students who are applying to colleges or jobs. The letter is an insight to the character of the person, it speaks to the person’s integrity, work ethic, and ambitions. As Christians, our lives should reflect the Spirit of Christ. His law is written in our hearts to be seen by all men. We need to live in a way that our lives recommend the life of Christ. We may be the only Bible that others will read. Therefore our lives should be in harmony with its teaching.  What do people read when they observe your life? Does your life reflect a life that glorifies God, and reflects the image of Christ? Your actions and reactions determine your influence for Christ. Let it be known to all men, that you live a life that is consistent with God’s word.