seasons of the heart: Sufficient by ric Gustafson
According to II Corinthians 12:9, the Apostle Paul says that my grace is sufficient for you for power is perfected in weakness. In verses 7-9, Paul is talking about a thorn in his flesh. Jesus does not remove the thorn from us. Jesus's uses this thorn in our flesh for our good. He also uses this thorn in our flesh for his glory. Today's thorn will be tomorrow's rose. Praise God.
research help: ' Gracelaced' by Ruth Chou Simons
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Friday, August 31, 2018
grace Aug 31
grace Aug 31 by ric Gustafson
As our frail human bodies go down hill, it is easy to worry and doubt about the future. Jesus tells us not to worry about our outer self. Jesus wants us to concentrate on our inner self. Jesus will send the Holy Spirit to renew and refresh us. Jesus is always the same. He has and will always love us with every fiber of his being. Jesus loves me this I know. Praise God.
research help: Simple Grace Aug 2018
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
As our frail human bodies go down hill, it is easy to worry and doubt about the future. Jesus tells us not to worry about our outer self. Jesus wants us to concentrate on our inner self. Jesus will send the Holy Spirit to renew and refresh us. Jesus is always the same. He has and will always love us with every fiber of his being. Jesus loves me this I know. Praise God.
research help: Simple Grace Aug 2018
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Thursday, August 30, 2018
grace Aug 30
grace Aug 30 by ric Gustafson
There are many tarot card, fortune telling and palm reading people out there. Jesus tells us to stay away from them. When we spend time with other spirits, things can get dangerous. Jesus tells us to stay away from these people. Instead, Jesus says always abide in me. Jesus will give us the strength to stay away from these people. Jesus loves us and will protect us always. Praise God.
research help: Simple Grace Aug 2018
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
There are many tarot card, fortune telling and palm reading people out there. Jesus tells us to stay away from them. When we spend time with other spirits, things can get dangerous. Jesus tells us to stay away from these people. Instead, Jesus says always abide in me. Jesus will give us the strength to stay away from these people. Jesus loves us and will protect us always. Praise God.
research help: Simple Grace Aug 2018
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Wednesday, August 29, 2018
seasons of the heart: Lean
seasons of the heart: Lean by ric Gustafson
Proverbs 3: 5-6 says trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding. It is easy to doubt when we can't see what's around the next bend. We can rest in God's faithfulness. We have choices to make every day. We must make decisions all the time. Will we trust God and lean on him?. God says trust in him. He will not disappoint us.
research help: ' Gracelaced' by Ruth Chou Simons
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Proverbs 3: 5-6 says trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding. It is easy to doubt when we can't see what's around the next bend. We can rest in God's faithfulness. We have choices to make every day. We must make decisions all the time. Will we trust God and lean on him?. God says trust in him. He will not disappoint us.
research help: ' Gracelaced' by Ruth Chou Simons
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
grace Aug 29
grace Aug 29 by ric Gustafson
Sometimes we dwell on the past or worry about the future. Jesus asks us to concentrate on the present. We cannot control what happens in the present. Our mind has no control over the present. Jesus simply asks us to totally trust in him. He asks us to have faith in him. Jesus simply asks us to love him and he will hold us forever in his loving arms. Praise God.
research help: Simple Grace Aug 2018
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Sometimes we dwell on the past or worry about the future. Jesus asks us to concentrate on the present. We cannot control what happens in the present. Our mind has no control over the present. Jesus simply asks us to totally trust in him. He asks us to have faith in him. Jesus simply asks us to love him and he will hold us forever in his loving arms. Praise God.
research help: Simple Grace Aug 2018
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Monday, August 27, 2018
seasons of the heart: Dwell
seasons of the heart: Dwell by ric Gustafson
Psalm 91: 1-2 talks about dwelling in the shelter of the Most High. The psalmist talks about a shelter, refuge and forest. This shelter of the Most High will protect us from the storms of life. Jesus Christ is our rock and refuge. With Jesus as our Rock, we can dwell in his arms. Our physical environment is not our refuge. Our refuge is in Jesus our Rock and Dwelling place. Praise God.
research help: ' Gracelaced' by Ruth Chou Simons
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Psalm 91: 1-2 talks about dwelling in the shelter of the Most High. The psalmist talks about a shelter, refuge and forest. This shelter of the Most High will protect us from the storms of life. Jesus Christ is our rock and refuge. With Jesus as our Rock, we can dwell in his arms. Our physical environment is not our refuge. Our refuge is in Jesus our Rock and Dwelling place. Praise God.
research help: ' Gracelaced' by Ruth Chou Simons
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
grace Aug 27
grace Aug 27 by ric Gustafson
When someone we trust does something to us behind our back, it's easy to get angry and out of control. Instead of anger, Jesus wants us to love and forgive those who hurt us. Jesus wants us to love others because he loves us. The more our heart is bitter and angry, the less Jesus can fill it with joy. The more we love Jesus, the more love and joy will fill our hearts. Praise God.
research help: Simple Grace Aug 2018
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
When someone we trust does something to us behind our back, it's easy to get angry and out of control. Instead of anger, Jesus wants us to love and forgive those who hurt us. Jesus wants us to love others because he loves us. The more our heart is bitter and angry, the less Jesus can fill it with joy. The more we love Jesus, the more love and joy will fill our hearts. Praise God.
research help: Simple Grace Aug 2018
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Saturday, August 25, 2018
Heavenly Joy: joy through community
Heavenly Joy: joy through community by ric Gustafson
In Philippians 1: 1-11, the Apostle Paul writes to the small but growing church in Philippi. Paul had started the church ten years earlier. When he wrote the letter, Paul was in prison in Rome. He called himself a bond slave to Jesus Christ. Paul referred to believers as a community of saints. Paul stressed joy through a community of saints. Paul reminds us to love everyone the same. Paul stressed the fellowship in the gospel. Paul hoped that this growing church would grow in spiritual devotion. He hoped that the small church would grow in spiritual development. Paul also hoped that the growing church would grow in spiritual deportment.
research help: ' Turning toward Joy' by Dr David Jeremiah
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
In Philippians 1: 1-11, the Apostle Paul writes to the small but growing church in Philippi. Paul had started the church ten years earlier. When he wrote the letter, Paul was in prison in Rome. He called himself a bond slave to Jesus Christ. Paul referred to believers as a community of saints. Paul stressed joy through a community of saints. Paul reminds us to love everyone the same. Paul stressed the fellowship in the gospel. Paul hoped that this growing church would grow in spiritual devotion. He hoped that the small church would grow in spiritual development. Paul also hoped that the growing church would grow in spiritual deportment.
research help: ' Turning toward Joy' by Dr David Jeremiah
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
grace Aug 25
grace Aug 25 by ric Gustafson
It is easy to want to be in control. Some people want to be in charge of everything for everybody. Jesus warns us not to be that way. When we want to be greater than others, that can become an idol. Jesus says surrender yourself totally to me. Jesus says send your heart to me. He will lift our spirit. Instead of us being in control, Let's have Jesus be in control instead. Praise God.
research help: Simple Grace Aug 2018
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
It is easy to want to be in control. Some people want to be in charge of everything for everybody. Jesus warns us not to be that way. When we want to be greater than others, that can become an idol. Jesus says surrender yourself totally to me. Jesus says send your heart to me. He will lift our spirit. Instead of us being in control, Let's have Jesus be in control instead. Praise God.
research help: Simple Grace Aug 2018
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Friday, August 24, 2018
Heavenly Joy: joy through adversity
Heavenly Joy: joy through adversity by ric Gustafson
The Apostle Paul in Philippians 1: 12-26 proclaims that Christ is preached and in this I rejoice. Paul wrote to the young church in Philippi while he was in prison. The church there was concerned about his welfare. Paul was now a prisoner in Rome. Afflictions came to Paul. He almost died at sea. He was spared from being beaten because of his Roman citizenship.
Paul was more concerned about the gospel instead of his own problems. According to Philippians 1:13, he was able to witness to his guards. Paul knew that his friends were praying for him. Paul was sustained in prison by the Holy Spirit. Paul was determined despite his adversity to maintain a Christ centered focus. Paul's adversity purified his motives. His adversities propelled Paul to see life and death in perspective.
research help: ' Turning toward Joy' by Dr David Jeremiah
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
The Apostle Paul in Philippians 1: 12-26 proclaims that Christ is preached and in this I rejoice. Paul wrote to the young church in Philippi while he was in prison. The church there was concerned about his welfare. Paul was now a prisoner in Rome. Afflictions came to Paul. He almost died at sea. He was spared from being beaten because of his Roman citizenship.
Paul was more concerned about the gospel instead of his own problems. According to Philippians 1:13, he was able to witness to his guards. Paul knew that his friends were praying for him. Paul was sustained in prison by the Holy Spirit. Paul was determined despite his adversity to maintain a Christ centered focus. Paul's adversity purified his motives. His adversities propelled Paul to see life and death in perspective.
research help: ' Turning toward Joy' by Dr David Jeremiah
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
grace Aug 24
grace Aug 24 by ric Gustafson
When someone does something to you, it's easy to judge. Jesus tells us not to do that. Instead of judging others, Jesus wants us to examine our hearts. Jesus will give us the Holy Spirit to bring truth to our hearts. Where are our hearts are closed, the Holy Spirit will open. Praise God.
research help: Simple Grace Aug 2018
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
When someone does something to you, it's easy to judge. Jesus tells us not to do that. Instead of judging others, Jesus wants us to examine our hearts. Jesus will give us the Holy Spirit to bring truth to our hearts. Where are our hearts are closed, the Holy Spirit will open. Praise God.
research help: Simple Grace Aug 2018
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Thursday, August 23, 2018
grace Aug 23
grace Aug 23 by ric Gustafson
Sometimes when things are going great in life, we seek Jesus less. When we do this for a long period of time, our heart and spirit will begin to feel empty. But Jesus says do not do this. We need to always talk to Jesus and pray to him. He will pour out his love to us through the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit will cleanse our spirit and replace our hurts with joy and peace. He will do that for us. Praise God.
research help: Simple Grace Aug 2018
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Sometimes when things are going great in life, we seek Jesus less. When we do this for a long period of time, our heart and spirit will begin to feel empty. But Jesus says do not do this. We need to always talk to Jesus and pray to him. He will pour out his love to us through the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit will cleanse our spirit and replace our hurts with joy and peace. He will do that for us. Praise God.
research help: Simple Grace Aug 2018
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
heavenly crowns: The Crown of Righteousness
heavenly crowns: The Crown of Righteousness by ric Gustafson
According to II Timothy 4:8, Jesus is waiting to make his appearance here. The Crown of Righteousness is given to those who love Jesus's appearing. Christians are eagerly waiting for the return of Jesus. When our works on earth are judged, some people will be given this crown. Then these crowns will be placed at the feet of Jesus our Lord.
The End.
research help: ' Escape the coming night' by Dr David Jeremiah
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
According to II Timothy 4:8, Jesus is waiting to make his appearance here. The Crown of Righteousness is given to those who love Jesus's appearing. Christians are eagerly waiting for the return of Jesus. When our works on earth are judged, some people will be given this crown. Then these crowns will be placed at the feet of Jesus our Lord.
The End.
research help: ' Escape the coming night' by Dr David Jeremiah
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Wednesday, August 22, 2018
loving Jesus: to be humble
loving Jesus: to be humble by ric Gustafson
God wants to honor the humble. In Luke 18, we see two people. One is a tax collector and the other a Pharisee. The tax collector showed humility and told God that he was a sinner. The Pharisee was full of pride and told God that. The Pharisee showed self righteousness and was full of himself. So who do you think God blessed?. It was the tax collector of course. When we think of others over ourselves God will bless us. Praise God
research help: ' Completely Blessed' by Shannon Ethridge
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
God wants to honor the humble. In Luke 18, we see two people. One is a tax collector and the other a Pharisee. The tax collector showed humility and told God that he was a sinner. The Pharisee was full of pride and told God that. The Pharisee showed self righteousness and was full of himself. So who do you think God blessed?. It was the tax collector of course. When we think of others over ourselves God will bless us. Praise God
research help: ' Completely Blessed' by Shannon Ethridge
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
grace Aug 22
grace Aug 22 by ric Gustafson
God's grace and mercy is a free gift. We do not earn it. We do not qualify for it. We are simply given it. God gives us simple grace. When we judge ourselves as unworthy, we condemn ourselves. When we do this, we cheapen God's gift. Jesus says do not do this. Jesus says do not self judge. Jesus says come to me. He says rest in him. We are redeemed eternally in Jesus. Praise God.
research help: Simple Grace Aug 2018
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
God's grace and mercy is a free gift. We do not earn it. We do not qualify for it. We are simply given it. God gives us simple grace. When we judge ourselves as unworthy, we condemn ourselves. When we do this, we cheapen God's gift. Jesus says do not do this. Jesus says do not self judge. Jesus says come to me. He says rest in him. We are redeemed eternally in Jesus. Praise God.
research help: Simple Grace Aug 2018
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Tuesday, August 21, 2018
heavenly crowns: The Crown of Glory
heavenly crowns: The Crown of Glory by ric Gustafson
In I Peter 5: 1-4, the Apostle Peter talks about those who shepherd God's flock. He talks to those who are in charge of watching over God's flock on this earth. The Crown of Glory is given to those who administer God's Word on this earth. This includes Pastors and other lay people. Peter in these verses are encouraging those who are eager to serve and be an example to God's flock. When our works on earth are judged, this crown will be handed out. Then these crowns will be placed at the feet of Jesus.
research help: ' Escape the coming night' by Dr David Jeremiah
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
In I Peter 5: 1-4, the Apostle Peter talks about those who shepherd God's flock. He talks to those who are in charge of watching over God's flock on this earth. The Crown of Glory is given to those who administer God's Word on this earth. This includes Pastors and other lay people. Peter in these verses are encouraging those who are eager to serve and be an example to God's flock. When our works on earth are judged, this crown will be handed out. Then these crowns will be placed at the feet of Jesus.
research help: ' Escape the coming night' by Dr David Jeremiah
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
grace Aug 21
grace Aug 21 by ric Gustafson
When someone does something to us, it is easy to retaliate and try to even the score. Jesus warns us not to do that. Jesus says to love them instead. Jesus wants us to love others and keep our hearts pure. When we feel like getting revenge on someone, Jesus says give those feelings to me. Jesus will send the Holy Spirit to heal our hearts. Instead of revenge, we should love them instead.
research help: Simple Grace Aug 2018
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
When someone does something to us, it is easy to retaliate and try to even the score. Jesus warns us not to do that. Jesus says to love them instead. Jesus wants us to love others and keep our hearts pure. When we feel like getting revenge on someone, Jesus says give those feelings to me. Jesus will send the Holy Spirit to heal our hearts. Instead of revenge, we should love them instead.
research help: Simple Grace Aug 2018
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Sunday, August 19, 2018
heavenly crowns: The Crown of Rejoicing
heavenly crowns: The Crown of Rejoicing by ric Gustafson
According to I Thessalonians 2: 19-20, the Crown of Rejoicing is given to those who have joyously expressed their faith. Jesus wants us to have the joy of knowing him. Jesus also wants us to have the joy of leading someone to him. Those who are soul winners for Jesus will wear this crown. When our works on earth are judged, this crown will be handed out. Then those who receive it, will lay them at Jesus's feet.
research help: ' Escape the coming night' by Dr David Jeremiah
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
According to I Thessalonians 2: 19-20, the Crown of Rejoicing is given to those who have joyously expressed their faith. Jesus wants us to have the joy of knowing him. Jesus also wants us to have the joy of leading someone to him. Those who are soul winners for Jesus will wear this crown. When our works on earth are judged, this crown will be handed out. Then those who receive it, will lay them at Jesus's feet.
research help: ' Escape the coming night' by Dr David Jeremiah
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
grace Aug 19
grace Aug 19 by ric Gustafson
It is hard when we mourn for loved ones. We miss them and our hearts become empty. Jesus understands a grieving heart. According to John 16:20, our grief will be turned to joy. Jesus says bring your mourning to me. Jesus will send the Holy Spirit to lift our spirits and fill them with joy. Our loved ones are in joy with Jesus. He wants us to feel the same right now.
research help: Simple Grace Aug 2018
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
It is hard when we mourn for loved ones. We miss them and our hearts become empty. Jesus understands a grieving heart. According to John 16:20, our grief will be turned to joy. Jesus says bring your mourning to me. Jesus will send the Holy Spirit to lift our spirits and fill them with joy. Our loved ones are in joy with Jesus. He wants us to feel the same right now.
research help: Simple Grace Aug 2018
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Saturday, August 18, 2018
heavenly crowns: The Crown of Life
heavenly crowns: The Crown of Life by ric Gustafson
The Crown of Life is given to those who with patience endure trials. According to James 1:12, blessed is the one who perseveres under trial. The person who stands this test will receive the Crown of Life. Jesus has promised this crown to those who love him. When our works on earth are judged, this crown will be given. Then they will be put at the feet of Jesus. Praise God.
research help: ' Escape the coming night' by Dr David Jeremiah
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
The Crown of Life is given to those who with patience endure trials. According to James 1:12, blessed is the one who perseveres under trial. The person who stands this test will receive the Crown of Life. Jesus has promised this crown to those who love him. When our works on earth are judged, this crown will be given. Then they will be put at the feet of Jesus. Praise God.
research help: ' Escape the coming night' by Dr David Jeremiah
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
grace Aug 18
grace Aug 18 by ric Gustafson
God wants us to care for others. Doing this can be emotionally exhausting. At this point, Jesus says come into my arms. He will restore joy and strength to our weary souls. Jesus simply says seek me. Jesus says spend quality time with me every day. Our spirit will be happier with joy. Spending time with Jesus will make our hearts and souls happier with joy and peace.
research help: Simple Grace Aug 2018
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
God wants us to care for others. Doing this can be emotionally exhausting. At this point, Jesus says come into my arms. He will restore joy and strength to our weary souls. Jesus simply says seek me. Jesus says spend quality time with me every day. Our spirit will be happier with joy. Spending time with Jesus will make our hearts and souls happier with joy and peace.
research help: Simple Grace Aug 2018
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Friday, August 17, 2018
loving Jesus: the power to pardon
loving Jesus: the power to pardon by ric Gustafson
With our sinful hearts, it is hard to forgive someone. In Matthew 18, Peter asks Jesus how many times he should forgive someone?. Jesus tells Peter there is no limit to the mercy we should show someone. Jesus wants us to always forgive those who hurt us. Unforgiveness can fester and grow in us. Jesus says give it to me and let it go. Praise God.
research help: ' Completely Blessed' by Shannon Ethridge
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
With our sinful hearts, it is hard to forgive someone. In Matthew 18, Peter asks Jesus how many times he should forgive someone?. Jesus tells Peter there is no limit to the mercy we should show someone. Jesus wants us to always forgive those who hurt us. Unforgiveness can fester and grow in us. Jesus says give it to me and let it go. Praise God.
research help: ' Completely Blessed' by Shannon Ethridge
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
heavenly crowns: The Crown of Incorruption
heavenly crowns: The Crown of Incorruption by ric Gustafson
The Crown of Incorruption is given to those who live a disciplined life. According to I Corinthians 9:26, winners in the game of life do not run like someone running aimlessly. The winner in the game of life has a purpose. This person has a goal in life. If we receive this crown at the time our works on earth will be judged, we will lay it at the feet of Jesus. Praise God.
research help: ' Escape the coming night' by Dr David Jeremaih
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
The Crown of Incorruption is given to those who live a disciplined life. According to I Corinthians 9:26, winners in the game of life do not run like someone running aimlessly. The winner in the game of life has a purpose. This person has a goal in life. If we receive this crown at the time our works on earth will be judged, we will lay it at the feet of Jesus. Praise God.
research help: ' Escape the coming night' by Dr David Jeremaih
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
grace Aug 17
grace Aug 17 by ric Gustafson
When we have trouble financially or otherwise in this life, it is easy to worry and lose sleep. In Matthew 6, Jesus says to the crowd seek first the kingdom of God and all these things shall be added to you. Jesus says lose yourself in me. Instead of worry and doubt, Jesus will put love and joy in our hearts. Peace will flood our hearts and our fears will leave. The Holy Spirit will cleanse our hearts.
Praise God.
research help: Simple Grace Aug 2018
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
When we have trouble financially or otherwise in this life, it is easy to worry and lose sleep. In Matthew 6, Jesus says to the crowd seek first the kingdom of God and all these things shall be added to you. Jesus says lose yourself in me. Instead of worry and doubt, Jesus will put love and joy in our hearts. Peace will flood our hearts and our fears will leave. The Holy Spirit will cleanse our hearts.
Praise God.
research help: Simple Grace Aug 2018
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Thursday, August 16, 2018
grace Aug 16
grace Aug 16 by ric Gustafson
As followers of Jesus, we will always feel that we do not do enough for him. We begin to feel unworthy, guilty and that we have failed him. Jesus tells us that this is not true. Jesus wants us to love him and his Father more than anything else. Jesus says surrender to me in love. When we surrender to Jesus, our heart will be cleansed. Then we are new to Jesus. Then the Holy Spirit can act in us. Then we can do what God has planned for us. Praise God.
research help: Simple Grace Aug 2018
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
As followers of Jesus, we will always feel that we do not do enough for him. We begin to feel unworthy, guilty and that we have failed him. Jesus tells us that this is not true. Jesus wants us to love him and his Father more than anything else. Jesus says surrender to me in love. When we surrender to Jesus, our heart will be cleansed. Then we are new to Jesus. Then the Holy Spirit can act in us. Then we can do what God has planned for us. Praise God.
research help: Simple Grace Aug 2018
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
7 churches: Laodicea
7 churches: Laodicea by ric Gustafson
There was a reason why Jesus wrote a letter to this church. This church was lukewarm. This church had trappings of wealth. This church was rich in material goods. This church was spiritually poor. Jesus had nothing good to say about this church. Jesus hates lukewarm. This church was half hearted. Jesus accused this church of being spiritually blind.
The End
research help: ' Escape the coming night' by Dr David Jeremiah
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
There was a reason why Jesus wrote a letter to this church. This church was lukewarm. This church had trappings of wealth. This church was rich in material goods. This church was spiritually poor. Jesus had nothing good to say about this church. Jesus hates lukewarm. This church was half hearted. Jesus accused this church of being spiritually blind.
The End
research help: ' Escape the coming night' by Dr David Jeremiah
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Tuesday, August 14, 2018
7 churches: Philadelphia
7 churches: Philadelphia by ric Gustafson
Jesus wrote a letter to this congregation. This young church had a lot going for it. It had a right doctrine and right living. Jesus promised to open doors for this church. What was unique about this promise was that it involved prophecy.
God promised to open doors for this church. God wanted this young church to reach out to a lost world. According to Revelation 3:10, this church was to be spared from the Great Tribulation. God was happy because of the great things this church was doing. Praise God.
research help: ' Escape the coming night' by Dr David Jeremiah
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Jesus wrote a letter to this congregation. This young church had a lot going for it. It had a right doctrine and right living. Jesus promised to open doors for this church. What was unique about this promise was that it involved prophecy.
God promised to open doors for this church. God wanted this young church to reach out to a lost world. According to Revelation 3:10, this church was to be spared from the Great Tribulation. God was happy because of the great things this church was doing. Praise God.
research help: ' Escape the coming night' by Dr David Jeremiah
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Monday, August 13, 2018
7 churches: Sardis
7 churches: Sardis by ric Gustafson
Jesus wrote a letter to the congregation in Sardis. He was not happy. The city was wealthy but degenerate. They were nominal Christians which Jesus disliked greatly. In Revelation 3:1, Jesus proclaims that the church is alive yet dead. Jesus tells this church to wake up.
In Revelation 3:3, Jesus tells them that he will be coming to them like a thief. The church relied on their past successes. The church allowed sin to creep into it's membership. The church had a reputation for lax moral standards. Basically, the church walked away from God. Jesus told the church " wake up". This church had become cold and dead.
research help: ' Escape the coming night" by Dr David Jeremiah
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Jesus wrote a letter to the congregation in Sardis. He was not happy. The city was wealthy but degenerate. They were nominal Christians which Jesus disliked greatly. In Revelation 3:1, Jesus proclaims that the church is alive yet dead. Jesus tells this church to wake up.
In Revelation 3:3, Jesus tells them that he will be coming to them like a thief. The church relied on their past successes. The church allowed sin to creep into it's membership. The church had a reputation for lax moral standards. Basically, the church walked away from God. Jesus told the church " wake up". This church had become cold and dead.
research help: ' Escape the coming night" by Dr David Jeremiah
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
loving Jesus: a rich reward
loving Jesus: a rich reward by ric Gustafson
If you knew Jesus was coming, what would you do?. Would you work on unimportant things you had to do?. Or would you work on things that would matter in heaven?. As a believer, you would focus on your relationships with Jesus and others. Jesus wants our life to have a purpose. He also wants our death here to have a purpose. We know where we are going. We can relax knowing that.
Praise God.
research help: ' Completely Blessed' by Shannon Ethridge
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
If you knew Jesus was coming, what would you do?. Would you work on unimportant things you had to do?. Or would you work on things that would matter in heaven?. As a believer, you would focus on your relationships with Jesus and others. Jesus wants our life to have a purpose. He also wants our death here to have a purpose. We know where we are going. We can relax knowing that.
Praise God.
research help: ' Completely Blessed' by Shannon Ethridge
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Sunday, August 12, 2018
loving Jesus: a greener pasture
loving Jesus: a greener pasture by ric Gustafson
Do we enjoy our own green pasture where we do whatever we wish whenever we wish?. Or do we enjoy the green pasture Jesus offers us?. Jesus is the great Shepherd and tends to our every need. When we stray away, Jesus will come find us and bring us back. Jesus's green pasture is a safe place where we can go. Jesus provides us with eternal security. Praise God.
research help: ' Completely Blessed' by Shannon Ethridge
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Do we enjoy our own green pasture where we do whatever we wish whenever we wish?. Or do we enjoy the green pasture Jesus offers us?. Jesus is the great Shepherd and tends to our every need. When we stray away, Jesus will come find us and bring us back. Jesus's green pasture is a safe place where we can go. Jesus provides us with eternal security. Praise God.
research help: ' Completely Blessed' by Shannon Ethridge
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Friday, August 10, 2018
7 churches: Pergamum
7 churches: Pergamum by ric Gustafson
Pergamum was the capital of Asia. The city was built on a rocky hill. The city was a cultural center with a huge library. Jesus wrote a letter to this church to try to help them with their struggling faith. The city worshipped other gods.
In Revelation 2:14, Jesus warns them about weird teaching. Some were listening to Balaam. Jesus warned this congregation not to worship Balaam.
In the early part of the third century, a man named Constantine became a Christian Emperor. The bad news is that this church had fallen prey to pagan culture.
research help: ' Escape the coming night' by Dr David Jeremiah
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Pergamum was the capital of Asia. The city was built on a rocky hill. The city was a cultural center with a huge library. Jesus wrote a letter to this church to try to help them with their struggling faith. The city worshipped other gods.
In Revelation 2:14, Jesus warns them about weird teaching. Some were listening to Balaam. Jesus warned this congregation not to worship Balaam.
In the early part of the third century, a man named Constantine became a Christian Emperor. The bad news is that this church had fallen prey to pagan culture.
research help: ' Escape the coming night' by Dr David Jeremiah
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
grace Aug 10
grace Aug 10 by ric Gustafson
When we tell others that we are right and they are not, we get into trouble. First of all, the people that we do it to will not like us. Second, Jesus does not want us to do it. When we feel like we are right above others, this is a false idol. Jesus wants us to love others equally. Instead, Jesus says come to me and he will have the Holy Spirit fill our heart with joy and love. Praise God.
research help: Simple Grace Aug 2018
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
When we tell others that we are right and they are not, we get into trouble. First of all, the people that we do it to will not like us. Second, Jesus does not want us to do it. When we feel like we are right above others, this is a false idol. Jesus wants us to love others equally. Instead, Jesus says come to me and he will have the Holy Spirit fill our heart with joy and love. Praise God.
research help: Simple Grace Aug 2018
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Thursday, August 9, 2018
loving Jesus: spiritual gifts
loving Jesus: spiritual gifts by ric Gustafson
When God created us, we were all given unique abilities. These spiritual gifts have two purposes. First, they strengthen us spiritually. Second, they strengthen the church. Some people do not believe that they have any gifts. Some people do not know what those gifts are. We were created for a purpose. We are a one of a kind. God planned us that way. Praise God.
research help: ' Completely Blessed' by Shannon Ethridge
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
When God created us, we were all given unique abilities. These spiritual gifts have two purposes. First, they strengthen us spiritually. Second, they strengthen the church. Some people do not believe that they have any gifts. Some people do not know what those gifts are. We were created for a purpose. We are a one of a kind. God planned us that way. Praise God.
research help: ' Completely Blessed' by Shannon Ethridge
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
7 churches: Thyatira
7 churches: Thyatira by ric Gustafson
Jesus wrote a letter to the growing congregation at Thyatira. The fledging church had growing love. The people worked patiently, faithfully and hard. But according to Revelation 2: 19-20, moral anger burned in Jesus. Jesus knew that a cancer was growing in the young church.
Jesus knew that a prophetess named Jezebel was in the midst of the congregation. He warned the church to stay away from this evil woman. In Revelation 2:22, he warns the church to stay away from this evil woman. Some obeyed and some did not. This church became part of her evil cult.
research help: ' Escape the coming night' by Dr David Jeremiah
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Jesus wrote a letter to the growing congregation at Thyatira. The fledging church had growing love. The people worked patiently, faithfully and hard. But according to Revelation 2: 19-20, moral anger burned in Jesus. Jesus knew that a cancer was growing in the young church.
Jesus knew that a prophetess named Jezebel was in the midst of the congregation. He warned the church to stay away from this evil woman. In Revelation 2:22, he warns the church to stay away from this evil woman. Some obeyed and some did not. This church became part of her evil cult.
research help: ' Escape the coming night' by Dr David Jeremiah
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
grace Aug 9
grace Aug 9 by ric Gustafson
It is easy in this world to judge others. But Jesus says don't do it. God loves everyone the same. When Jesus was on earth, he loved everyone the same. Jesus showed his Father's true and radical forgiveness and acceptance. When we feel the sting of others judgment, we need to reach out to Jesus. Jesus loves all of us equally more than anything else in the world.
research help: Simple Grace Aug 2018
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
It is easy in this world to judge others. But Jesus says don't do it. God loves everyone the same. When Jesus was on earth, he loved everyone the same. Jesus showed his Father's true and radical forgiveness and acceptance. When we feel the sting of others judgment, we need to reach out to Jesus. Jesus loves all of us equally more than anything else in the world.
research help: Simple Grace Aug 2018
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Wednesday, August 8, 2018
7 churches: Smyrna
7 churches: Smyrna by ric Gustafson
Jesus wrote a letter to the church in Smyrna. This was the proudest and most beautiful city in Asia. The city was built by the Greeks. The growing congregation was under pressure by the Romans. Christians were being killed for not worshiping Caesar. The young congregation was under pressure, persecution and poverty.
Jesus gave this fearful congregation two commands. He told them to be fearless. He also told them to be faithful. In Revelation 2:9, Jesus tells them that he knows their afflictions. A student and disciple of John came to be their pastor. His name was Polycarp. Later, this man of God became a martyr for Jesus. This church suffered for it's faith in God and Jesus.
research help: ' Escape the coming night' by Dr David Jeremiah
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Jesus wrote a letter to the church in Smyrna. This was the proudest and most beautiful city in Asia. The city was built by the Greeks. The growing congregation was under pressure by the Romans. Christians were being killed for not worshiping Caesar. The young congregation was under pressure, persecution and poverty.
Jesus gave this fearful congregation two commands. He told them to be fearless. He also told them to be faithful. In Revelation 2:9, Jesus tells them that he knows their afflictions. A student and disciple of John came to be their pastor. His name was Polycarp. Later, this man of God became a martyr for Jesus. This church suffered for it's faith in God and Jesus.
research help: ' Escape the coming night' by Dr David Jeremiah
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Monday, August 6, 2018
7 churches: Ephesus
7 churches: Ephesus by ric Gustafson
Ephesus was an urban center in a cosmopolitan city. The Apostle Paul spent three years here and the church flourished at that time. After Paul left, possibly Timothy or even John may have become it's pastor. The Ephesian congregation was dynamic. This fledging church persevered through times of trouble. Even with success, this church had problems.
According to Revelation 2:4, this growing church lost it's love for Jesus. This young church stopped loving Jesus and each other. In Revelation 2:5, Jesus warns this church in a letter to change it's ways or face ruin. It did not listen. It declined as a city. It became uninhabited. The church started out strong but lost it's love for Jesus.
research help: ' Escape the coming night' by Dr David Jeremiah
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Ephesus was an urban center in a cosmopolitan city. The Apostle Paul spent three years here and the church flourished at that time. After Paul left, possibly Timothy or even John may have become it's pastor. The Ephesian congregation was dynamic. This fledging church persevered through times of trouble. Even with success, this church had problems.
According to Revelation 2:4, this growing church lost it's love for Jesus. This young church stopped loving Jesus and each other. In Revelation 2:5, Jesus warns this church in a letter to change it's ways or face ruin. It did not listen. It declined as a city. It became uninhabited. The church started out strong but lost it's love for Jesus.
research help: ' Escape the coming night' by Dr David Jeremiah
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
loving Jesus: the gift of the Holy Spirit
loving Jesus: the gift of the Holy Spirit by ric Gustafson
In John 14, Jesus makes a promise to his disciples. Then on Pentecost, the promise was fulfilled. God sent the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit has been sent for all people for all time. The Holy Spirit dwells in our heart and mind. The Holy Spirit reminds us of God's truths. The Holy Spirit lets us have a personal relationship with God. The Holy Spirit helps us in times of trouble. The Holy Spirit helps us discern godly things from ungodly things. Jesus keeps his promises.
research help: ' Completely Blessed' by Shannon Ethridge
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
In John 14, Jesus makes a promise to his disciples. Then on Pentecost, the promise was fulfilled. God sent the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit has been sent for all people for all time. The Holy Spirit dwells in our heart and mind. The Holy Spirit reminds us of God's truths. The Holy Spirit lets us have a personal relationship with God. The Holy Spirit helps us in times of trouble. The Holy Spirit helps us discern godly things from ungodly things. Jesus keeps his promises.
research help: ' Completely Blessed' by Shannon Ethridge
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
grace Aug 6
grace Aug 6 by ric Gustafson
Sometimes we can be nice or kind. Kindness is seeing the best in someone. We can be nice and firm at the same time. Jesus wants us to be kind and help our neighbors. We can help them be the best they can be. Seeing us might lead someone to Jesus. Hopefully, people will not take advantage of us. We need to say no and let Jesus take over.
research help: Simple Grace Aug 2018
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Sometimes we can be nice or kind. Kindness is seeing the best in someone. We can be nice and firm at the same time. Jesus wants us to be kind and help our neighbors. We can help them be the best they can be. Seeing us might lead someone to Jesus. Hopefully, people will not take advantage of us. We need to say no and let Jesus take over.
research help: Simple Grace Aug 2018
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Friday, August 3, 2018
loving Jesus: a transformation
loving Jesus: a transformation by ric Gustafson
Jesus was in the business of transformation. He traveled from town to town transforming sinners into saints. Just like changing water into wine at Cana, Jesus changed the ordinary into something extraordinary. Jesus will be returning as the heavenly Bridegroom and all of us believers will be going to heaven as his bride. I pray we will be at the wedding feast. Praise God.
research help: ' Completely Blessed' by Shannon Ethridge
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Jesus was in the business of transformation. He traveled from town to town transforming sinners into saints. Just like changing water into wine at Cana, Jesus changed the ordinary into something extraordinary. Jesus will be returning as the heavenly Bridegroom and all of us believers will be going to heaven as his bride. I pray we will be at the wedding feast. Praise God.
research help: ' Completely Blessed' by Shannon Ethridge
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
grace Aug 3
grace Aug 3 by ric Gustafson
It is painful to feel betrayed by people you trust. Jesus wants us in this situation to continue walking in the light. Jesus knows everything about us. He knows every thought in our heart. When our heart is hurting, Jesus will send the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit will ease our heart. The Holy Spirit will console us and we can rest in Jesus's arms.
research help: Simple Grace Aug 2018
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
It is painful to feel betrayed by people you trust. Jesus wants us in this situation to continue walking in the light. Jesus knows everything about us. He knows every thought in our heart. When our heart is hurting, Jesus will send the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit will ease our heart. The Holy Spirit will console us and we can rest in Jesus's arms.
research help: Simple Grace Aug 2018
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Thursday, August 2, 2018
loving Jesus: a light load
loving Jesus: a light load by ric Gustafson
Jesus says in Matthew 11 come to me all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens and I will give you rest. Jesus knows the heavy burdens we carry on our troubled shoulders. We carry financial, family and health issues on our shoulders. Our emotional back pack gets heavier and heavier. Jesus says take the back pack off and give it to him. He will wear it and give us rest. Praise God.
research help: ' Completely Blessed' by Shannon Ethridge
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Jesus says in Matthew 11 come to me all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens and I will give you rest. Jesus knows the heavy burdens we carry on our troubled shoulders. We carry financial, family and health issues on our shoulders. Our emotional back pack gets heavier and heavier. Jesus says take the back pack off and give it to him. He will wear it and give us rest. Praise God.
research help: ' Completely Blessed' by Shannon Ethridge
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
3 days page 18
3 days page 18 by ric Gustafson
The next morning, the family walked south to Bethlehem. Yosef wanted to spend some time with his nephew Ezekiel. Yeshua met some nephews he had never met before. The family spent two nights there. Yeshua showed his cousins his carvings.
After their visit, the family traveled back to the Mount of Olives. The next day, the family celebrated the Sabbath in the Temple. They celebrated with Elizabeth and John. There, the two cousins encountered Caiaphas. He was the son in law of the High Priest. John told his cousin that he was joining the Essenes. This was a devout Hebrew group that were zealots and rebels.
The family went back to the Mount of Olives. They had to prepare for the five day journey back to Nazareth.
research help: ' Three Days' by Chris Stepien
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
The next morning, the family walked south to Bethlehem. Yosef wanted to spend some time with his nephew Ezekiel. Yeshua met some nephews he had never met before. The family spent two nights there. Yeshua showed his cousins his carvings.
After their visit, the family traveled back to the Mount of Olives. The next day, the family celebrated the Sabbath in the Temple. They celebrated with Elizabeth and John. There, the two cousins encountered Caiaphas. He was the son in law of the High Priest. John told his cousin that he was joining the Essenes. This was a devout Hebrew group that were zealots and rebels.
The family went back to the Mount of Olives. They had to prepare for the five day journey back to Nazareth.
research help: ' Three Days' by Chris Stepien
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
grace Aug 2
grace Aug 2 by ric Gustafson
It is great to have goals. Jesus wants us to have goals. But these goals must be God directed and not ours. Our goals leave us disappointed. Our goals are false idols. When we focus on those, we feel disappointed and not happy. Jesus asks us to focus on his goals for our life. He will send the Holy Spirit into our heart to keep us on the right track. Jesus says stay focused on him. Good things will come our way. He promises us that. Praise God.
research help: Simple Grace Aug 2018
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
It is great to have goals. Jesus wants us to have goals. But these goals must be God directed and not ours. Our goals leave us disappointed. Our goals are false idols. When we focus on those, we feel disappointed and not happy. Jesus asks us to focus on his goals for our life. He will send the Holy Spirit into our heart to keep us on the right track. Jesus says stay focused on him. Good things will come our way. He promises us that. Praise God.
research help: Simple Grace Aug 2018
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Wednesday, August 1, 2018
grace Aug 1
grace Aug 1 by ric Gustafson
When we constantly help others, it is easy at some point to feel emotionally drained. When this happens, Jesus says rest in me. When we are emotionally run down, our prayer life suffers. Jesus says surrender to him in love. Give everything to him and he will refresh us. The Holy Spirit will renew and refresh our hearts. That is a promise from Jesus. Praise God.
research help: Simple Grace Aug 2018
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
When we constantly help others, it is easy at some point to feel emotionally drained. When this happens, Jesus says rest in me. When we are emotionally run down, our prayer life suffers. Jesus says surrender to him in love. Give everything to him and he will refresh us. The Holy Spirit will renew and refresh our hearts. That is a promise from Jesus. Praise God.
research help: Simple Grace Aug 2018
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
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