Monday, April 21, 2014

Pastor's Ponderings, April 21, 2014

Thank God For Our Heritage!

Recently I attended a sermon by Dr. Bill Winston who preached an inspiring message.  One of his points was about the heritage of those that love God.  I had been very familiar with the scripture that God owns the universe and everything in it (Psalm 24:1).  However, Dr. Winston reminded the listeners that God has already given the earth to mankind (Psalm 115:16).  It is ours; we do not have to make a deal to get what we deserve.

Stories you may hear about people successfully bargaining with the devil for a desired item or outcome are lies.  He does not have it to give.  He simply has a world system that he unsuccessfully tried to sell to Jesus (Luke 4:5-8). 

We have been given something unimaginably greater.  It is God’s pleasure to give the saints His kingdom (Luke 12:32).  Since we are heirs and joint heirs with Christ Jesus (Romans 8:17), we do not have to make side deals with the devil to get prosperity, fame, or fortune.

Today when you feel that you have been defeated in life, remember that God has given you the earth and His kingdom.  We have been everything that pertains to life and godliness (2 Peter 1:3).  We do not have to worship the devil to get temporary goodies, we have blessings now and in the world to come because we simply cannot be defeated by the devil, his lies, or his activities (Isaiah 54:17).  We have a great heritage in Christ.

Please comment below and tell how you decided to appreciate your heritage with Christ. It may help someone who needs to know what they have in Christ.

Psalm 24:1
New International Version (NIV)
The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it;

Psalm 115:16
New International Version (NIV)
16 The highest heavens belong to the Lord, but the earth he has given to mankind.

Luke 4:5-8
New International Version (NIV)
5 The devil led him up to a high place and showed him in an instant all the kingdoms of the world.
6 And he said to him, “I will give you all their authority and splendor; it has been given to me, and I can give it to anyone I want to.
7 If you worship me, it will all be yours.”
8 Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Worship the Lord your God and serve him only.’

Luke 12:32
King James Version (KJV)
32 Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom

Isaiah 54:17
New International Version (NIV)
17 no weapon forged against you will prevail, and you will refute every tongue that accuses you.
This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord,
and this is their vindication from me,”
declares the Lord.

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