The House You're Building

[1] Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. [2] For by it the people of old received their commendation. [3] By faith we understand that the universe was created by the word of God, so that what is seen was not made out of things that are visible. [4] By faith Abel offered to God a more acceptable sacrifice than Cain, through which he was commended as righteous, God commending him by accepting his gifts. And through his faith, though he died, he still speaks. [5] By faith Enoch was taken up so that he should not see death, and he was not found, because God had taken him. Now before he was taken he was commended as having pleased God. [6] And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him. [7] By faith Noah, being warned by God concerning events as yet unseen, in reverent fear constructed an ark for the saving of his household. By this he condem...

[12] Not that I have already obtained this or am already perfect, but I press on to make it my own, because Christ Jesus has made me his own. [13] Brothers, I do not consider that I have made it my own. But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, [14] I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. [15] Let those of us who are mature think this way, and if in anything you think otherwise, God will reveal that also to you. [16] Only let us hold true to what we have attained. Philippians 3:12–16  (ESV) Human reality is in constant flux.  No state in our present experience is ever permanent.  In the good times, this is a negative characteristic.  Contrastingly, in hard times it is often a benefit to realize that your current circumstances aren’t always going to stay the same.  This has led to a saying “this too shall pass.”   This truism does not come from Scripture, though the...

Lord Jesus you are coming quickly! Your reward is with you, and You will give to everyone according to what he has done.   You are the Alpha and Omega, the First and the Last, the Beginning and the End.   Yes, You are coming quickly.   Amen.   Come, Lord Jesus! Revelation 22:12-13, 20 As I was praying this morning, God led me to a passage of Scripture and a thought shamefully I don’t have often.   His returning and His coming.   It struck me that as I interceded for those God has put into my life—those that know Him and those that don’t, I pray often for earthy things.   For circumstances to change, for provision, for wisdom and grace in this life. But let us not forget to long for heaven.   For an end to the injustice of this world.   With all that we are, to dwell with Him forever.   Seeking His kingdom of heaven; a place free from pain or need.   Where all relationships are made right.   To be without sin an...