TUESDAY November 29, 2022

Christ’s Government of Peace

Isaiah 9:7

Governments have failed to maintain world peace. There are so many corrupt politicians and elected representatives in power. We are living in a dangerous time because of merciless, power hungry leaders who rule their people with utter tyranny. They have even been known to eliminate any person who they consider a threat to their power. Democracy is

dead––the people have no voice. Russia has mercilessly attacked Ukraine. North Korea is a threat to South Korea. China has subdued Hong Kong and is making ready to invade Taiwan, and on all sides, Israel is surrounded by her enemies.

The prophet Isaiah’s prophetic words give us all great comfort. Who is the Person he referred to who would sit on the throne of King David? This prophecy refers to Jesus Christ––the Messiah––the Prince of Peace. He will govern His kingdom with judgment and justice. In the future, and under His authority, there is going to be lasting peace––peace without end.

When Jesus came the first time, He was a humble Servant King: Behold! My Servant whom I have chosen, My Beloved in whom My soul is well pleased! I will put My Spirit upon Him, and He will declare justice to the Gentiles (Matthew 12:18). When Jesus returns, He will be King to rule and reign over the kingdoms of this world: “The kingdoms of this world have become the kingdoms of our Lord and of His Christ, and He shall reign forever and ever!” (Revelation 11:15). Jesus will establish His government and everlasting peace.

Perhaps you find yourself overwhelmed with anxiety because of the corrupt governments of this world. Take comfort in Isaiah’s prophecy. Jesus is coming again, and He will set things right.

To enjoy peace, our unbelieving thoughts must be stilled,
and we must learn that the Lord reigns.
~C.H. Spurgeon~

MONDAY November 28, 2022

The Wonderful Names of Christ

Isaiah 9:6

An incredible prophecy given by the prophet Isaiah paints a perfect picture of Christ by using His names. Isaiah tells us of His birth. He was given to us––for us! The divine Child is God’s Only Son. He is Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, and Prince of Peace. Charles Spurgeon captures the wonder of His Wonderful name perfectly when He said:

“Jesus Christ the Son of God, was born of the Virgin Mary, and became a man. Is he not rightly called Wonderful? Infinite, and an infant—eternal, and yet born of a woman—Almighty, and yet hanging on a woman's breast—supporting the universe, and yet needing to be carried in a mother's arms—king of angels, and yet the reputed son of Joseph—heir of all things, and yet the carpenter's despised son. Wonderful art thou O Jesus, and that shall be thy name forever.”

As our Counselor, Jesus in there for us in difficult times. It is important to seek Him for His counsel. Our lives need His direction and wisdom for any problem or situation. The psalmist sought God’s counsel and was instructed in the night: I will bless the Lord who has given me counsel; my heart also instructs me in the night seasons (Psalm 16:7).

Isaiah expresses the deity of Jesus Christ. He is our Mighty God! Spurgeon questioned, “Is this child, then, to us the mighty God?” Yes! Unto us, Jesus is not just a Man, but His nature is holy divine. That being so, He is able to save the worst of sinners. Everlasting Father reveals to us His eternal existence. He is our Father, who art in heaven (Matthew 6:9).

Prince of Peace is His exalted name––the Ruler of rulers. As such, He seeks our welfare, mediates for us as sinners to restore our relationship with God, the Father, and gives to us His peace.

Christ is called Wonderful, because he is so. God the Father never gave his Son a name which he did not deserve. 
~C.H. Spurgeon~

SUNDAY November 27, 2022

Immanuel, God With Us

Isaiah 7:14

Even before Jesus was born, Isaiah the prophet gave a prophecy of His virgin, birth. The name Immanuel means “God with us.” This is the prophetical name of the Messiah, the Christ––the One to be born of a virgin, Mary. It is Jesus who would be God with us. Matthew Henry brings these thoughts of Him being with us to light:

The Messiah shall be introduced on a glorious errand, wrapped up in his glorious name: They shall call his name Immanuel––God with us, God in our nature, God at peace with us, in covenant with us. This was fulfilled in their calling him Jesus––a Savior (Matthew 1:21-25), for if he has not been Immanuel––God with us, he could not have been Jesus––a Savior.

Have you ever felt alone at Christmas? So many people feel alone and abandoned at this time of year. The holiday season can be very difficult, especially for those who have lost loved ones. Yet be reminded of this comforting message wrapped up in the name Immanuel––God with us. Are you in need of God’s comfort this Christmas season?

Look to the Christ-Child born of a virgin and laid in a manger. He left heaven to be with you––you are not alone in this world. The angels in heaven brought tidings of comfort and joy to the shepherds in the fields. Consider the reason: “For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord” (Luke 2:11). What comfort and joy is there to be found in Christ?

As Savior, as deity, as Christ the Lord––be assured of His love. He came to die so you can have eternal life. He defeated death itself. His joy can be yours, not only in this life, but in the life to come. He is your Savior, and He has promised––“I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Amen. May the reality of Immanuel, God with us, be yours today.

O come, Thou Dayspring, from on high;
And cheer us by Thy drawing night;
Disperse the gloomy clouds of night,
And death’s dark shadows put to flight.
~John Mason Neale~?

 SATURDAY November 26, 2022

A Name Above All Names

Philippians 2:9-11

Christmas is right around the corner, and for believers in Christ, our focus turns to Jesus and the celebration of His birth. God has placed the name of His Son in such a high, exalted position. Jesus is …the name above all other names.

Christians herald the good news of God’s Only Begotten Son who came into this sinful world. Christmas Carols are sung by congregations in churches across the world. The resounding Gospel message proclaims the name of Jesus and the reason for His birth:

All hail the power of Jesus' name!

?Let angels prostrate fall;

?Bring forth the royal diadem,

And Crown him Lord of all!

The wonderful name of Jesus reveals His mission. He came for this one solitary purpose––the salvation of mankind. In the Hebrew language, the name Jesus is Joshua, which means “Yahweh saves” or “Yahweh is salvation.” Jesus came to save sinners. Christmas is the perfect time to tell others there is no need to despair. Jesus came to forgive their sin and to rescue them from Satan’s power, as this 16th Century Carol proclaims:

God rest ye merry gentlemen?

Let nothing you dismay?

Remember Christ our Savior

?Was born on Christmas Day

?To save us all from Satan's pow'r

?When we were gone astray….?

Jesus desires to be your Savior. Why not bend your knees and say a humble prayer of repentance? Express your need for God’s salvation and allow Jesus to come into your heart this Christmas season.

[Jesus] It’s the name that causes our hearts to rejoice
and our lips to sing his praise.?~Warren W. Wiersbe~

FRIDAY November 25, 2022

Power in the Name of Jesus

Acts 3:13-16

Peter used the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth when he healed the crippled man. There is power in the name of Jesus! Demons tremble and fear the name of Jesus. I believe we should always use the name of Jesus when we begin and end our prayers.

God desires that His name be honored and reverenced: “You shall not take the name of the LORD your God in vain, for the LORD will not hold him guiltless who takes His name in vain (Exodus 20:7). Many people use the name of the Lord in vain.” These people are ignorant. The name of God is holy. In the Old Testament, scribes would write the Law of God on scrolls. They would not speak His name because it was so holy. When they finished writing His name, they washed the pen, took a bath, and put on clean clothes. Every time they wrote God’s name they would have to do that!

In the Old Testament, each of God’s different names revealed something about His divine character. El Shaddai means “Lord God Almighty.” Jehovah Rapha means “the Lord who heals.” Jehovah Jireh means “the Lord will provide,” and Jehovah Shalom means “the Lord is peace.” What name of God do you need to call upon for help today?

We worship One God in three persons: the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. As believers, we bear the name of God––Christians. Again, we have His power when we pray for people in the name of Jesus. Those who have the gift of healings have the power to lay hands on a person, and that person can be healed according to God’s sovereignty and will.

When we profess God’s name, but do not
live answerably to it, we take it in vain.
~Thomas Watson~

THURSDAY November 24, 2022

Thanksgiving Blessings

Psalm 105:1

As the summer season changes, and we watch the beautiful colors of fall transform the scenery before us, we are reminded, especially at Thanksgiving, of all that we have been given––God’s abundant blessings. Consider the psalmist’s first words: Oh, give thanks to the Lord! During Thanksgiving dinner this year, I believe it is a wonderful tradition for each family member to openly say the reason for why they are thankful. It is a good time to express our gratitude to God Almighty.

What are some of the things you are thankful for? I am sure you are thankful for your loved ones––your families and your friends. Although times are difficult financially, and many families are struggling to put food on the table, I am sure you can be thankful for God’s divine provision as He meets your daily needs. Praise God for His eternal faithfulness!

America is a country blessed by God’s grace. Are you thankful that you live in a free country where the Gospel is freely preached? You are able to worship God without constraint. What does the Psalmist declare next? Call upon His name. People from every nation can call upon the name of the Lord for salvation.

Lastly, the psalmist implores us to make known His deeds among the peoples! As friends and family gather from across the country for this year’s Thanksgiving feast, be open to share what God has done in your life. As God opens the doors, share your testimony with them.

When others see your transformation and your heartfelt thankfulness to God, they will be drawn to Him. In this season of Thanksgiving, may your loved ones come to know Christ as they call on His name to receive salvation.

May you remember this Thanksgiving not only the obvious gifts that God has given you, but His spiritual blessings, as well. The greatest gift of all is Jesus Christ, and the salvation God offers us in Him.
~Billy Graham~

WEDNESDAY November 23, 2022

Giving God the Glory

Acts 3:11-12

As the healed man held on to Peter and John, people ran into Solomon’s porch to see what was going on. They were filled with wonder and amazement, knowing a miracle had taken place. They turned their eyes toward Peter as if he had healed the man. Imagine, they gave men the glory and not God. Perhaps they said to Peter, “You are such a wonderful, godly young man. Can you start healing everybody else here?”

Immediately, Peter and John responded with a rebuke. They did not allow people to give them the glory. This was not the work of man; it was the work of God! The people needed to get their eyes off Peter and John and place them on God! He is the One who heals through His sovereignty and in His timing. He heals whomever He wants. Some people are healed, and some others are not. They go home sick. It is all according to His will.

When people start to praise you, the right thing to do is give God the glory. Never take the glory away from Jesus Christ. Whatever gifts and talents you possess, give all the glory to God and not to yourself. Every gift and talent God has given to you came from Him. Again, never take the glory.

God is our Healer. He heals both physically and spiritually. When a person is born again (John 3), their life is sealed with His Spirit: In Him you also trusted, after you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation; in whom also, having believed, you were sealed with the Holy Spirit of promise (Ephesians 1:13). God’s Spirit is given as a guarantee of the redemption price of your soul––paid by the blood of Christ.

Therefore, keep your eyes on Jesus. He loves you and works in you and through you to do His will!

Our high and privileged calling is to do the will of God
in the power of God for the glory of God.
~J.I. Packer~

TUESDAY November 22, 2022

Miracles and Wonders

Acts 3:9-10

The people recognized the crippled beggar who was now walking and praising God, and they wanted to find out how this miracle had happened?

When you see a miracle or wonder, do you doubt the Word of God? Over the years, I have seen the power of God at work through prayer. Although I have never seen someone rise from the dead, I have known sick people who were completely healed. I have seen people healed of Leukemia, cancer, a tumor, or an aneurysm. God does do miracles and wonders today!

After an evening service, at times we ask people seeking the Lord for healing or other needs to come forward for prayer. Different pastors will pray for them so that not one man among them can be attributed for their healing. The Lord gets all the glory and the honor. When God does the supernatural, we do not want any one person with a gift of healings to become like a super star. Satan can tempt him to take the glory and destroy his life. That is why the elders of the church pray collectively for people. Again, God alone gets the glory.

When I was in China and Thailand, God moved in miraculous ways. He healed many people supernaturally from their skin diseases. Healings and wonders have not stopped since the days of the Apostles. The problem is there has been an abuse of these spiritual gifts in the Church. People are afraid of them. God works decently and in order, and when we give Him the glory and honor, He can manifest Himself to us.

Listen, whether you have a financial, physical, or emotional need, whatever your need may be, God can meet that need. Understand, sometimes God takes a person home to be with Him in heaven. I believe, He heals them permanently!

Miracles are not meant to be understood, they are meant to be believed.
~D. Martyn Lloyd-Jones~

MONDAY November 21, 2022

Praising God!

Acts 3:7-8

The Apostle Peter saw the need of this pitiful, crippled man. He, being a man of faith, lifted him up. Literally, he snatched him up, saying, “Now walk!” His feet and ankle bones received strength, and he knew he was healed. Think about this man walking around for the first time in his life!

Notice the healed man’s reaction. He was not only walking, he was leaping and praising God! The attention was clearly not on himself; he gave all the glory to the Lord. He did not praise Peter; he praised the mighty Healer!

The man had walked right into the Temple. Can you imagine the expression on people’s faces? He was a well-known cripple. He had begged in the streets for years––all the days of his life. He still had his beggar’s clothing on while leaping about in joy.

People must have curiously asked, “What happened to him?” Did they not know? God had healed this crippled man! Peter was used of the Lord. He was obedient to His voice, and the miraculous happened!

God wants to use your life. He desires for you to be His instrument through which His divine power can flow. Look around you. Is there a human need? Is there something impossible that God has placed on your heart to do? Be obedient and let God do the impossible through you!

Often people who have the gift of healing get all the attention. They believe they are the healers. It is a trap of the enemy to think men have the power within themselves to heal people. Only God can do that!

God is looking for those with whom He can do the impossible – what a pity that we plan only the things that we can do by ourselves.
~A.W. Tozer~

SUNDAY November 20, 2022

Fix Your Eyes Upon Jesus

Acts 3:4-6

Peter fixed his eyes on the crippled man. He steadfastly looked at him and said: “Look at us.”  Excited, the man must have thought, Alright, I am going to get some coins. Peter first told him, “Silver and gold I do not have.” The man must have been very disappointed when he heard these words. He may have thought to himself, Forget it, I will try and get money from someone else.

Then Peter, a man of God, energized by the power of the Holy Spirit, said something unexpected. Exercising the gift of faith, Peter lifted the crippled man up, saying, “In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk.” A crippled man from birth, was instantly healed. Imagine, for the first time in his life, he walked! God did something beautiful at the gate named Beautiful––a miracle happened.

Interestingly, before Jesus was killed, He had gone up to the Temple many times. This crippled man would have seen Jesus. Why did Christ not heal him then? It was not the right time. God chose to use Peter as His instrument. Peter used the name Jesus Christ of Nazareth when he told the man, “Rise up and walk!” Jesus miraculously healed him.

The greater miracle in a person’s life is regeneration––rebirth. It is described so simply for us in Ephesians 2:4-5: But God, who is rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us,  even when we were dead in trespasses, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved).

God is still in the business of healing people, both physically and spiritually, as well. What is your need today? Fix your eyes upon Jesus. In His name, according to His will and His perfected timing, may He touch your life.

But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed.
~Isaiah 53:5 NIV~

SATURDAY November 19, 2022

Miracles Do Happen

Acts 3:1-3

The secret to a healthy church is found in Acts 2:42, where we find believers continuing steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in prayers. People were being saved daily as God added to the Church. This was a powerful Church in which miracles and wonders become strong witnesses of how God was continuing to move.

In Acts 3, we witness the first miracle that happened after Pentecost, although we are unsure of how long after the Holy Spirit came that this miracle happened. Peter and John went to the Temple at the hour of prayer––the ninth hour. Interestingly, the ninth hour was when Jesus cried out from the Cross, “My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me?” (Matthew 27:46). God had not forsaken the crippled man.

The Jews worshiped the Lord in the Temple. There was an outer court––a place for women and Gentiles. In Israel, poor beggars would often sit at the gate of the Temple with their hands extended out for money to buy bread.

This is exactly what the crippled man was doing. He was crippled from birth, but spiritually he was crippled, too. He was dead in his sin, and he needed Jesus. When he begged for money, God spoke to Peter, and he was moved by faith to do the miraculous. With God, miracles do happen.

When you encounter a person asking for money, I believe, before you give them anything, first minister to their spiritual needs. Give them the Gospel of Jesus Christ with your tokens of love. Many are bound by addictions to alcohol or drugs; it is wise to buy food for them rather than give them money, because they will spend it on their sinful habits.

To be spiritually dead is to be diabolically alive.
~R.C. Sproul~

FRIDAY November 18, 2022

The Power of Prayer

Acts 3:1

Christ’s disciples were gathered together for ten days in the upper room praying––in one mind, and revival broke through. There is power in prayer when you come to pray to Jesus Christ. It does not matter what your circumstance or problem is––there is power in prayer!

After Pentecost, even though they were born again of the Holy Spirit, Peter and John still continued to go up to the temple for prayer. Remember, there were no churches. Christians met in homes. So it is very interesting that they went there to keep this traditional time of prayer. I am sure they sought the opportunity to be a witness for Christ.

The customary times for Jews to pray in a Jewish synagogue were 9:00am in the morning, 12:00 noon, and 3:00pm in the afternoon. Not only does daily prayer happen among the Jews, but you will find that Muslims pray five times a day to their god––Allah. They pray at dawn, noon, mid-afternoon, sunset and evening. Also, it is recommended that Hindus faithfully pray to their gods twice––every sunrise and sunset.

As a Christian, do you have a consistent prayer life? We are not held by tradition to pray, instead, we have a personal love relationship with Jesus Christ. Still, there needs to be an urgency and constancy to our prayer time. Make an appointment with God and keep it! It seems that we can read the Bible without any issues, but when it comes to prayer, the phone rings, there is a knock on the door or some other distraction happens.

Some people pray selfishly. They keep their prayers short and to the point, “Lord I want, I need, thank you, Amen.” Jesus taught His disciples to pray, but it was never intended to be repetitious (Matthew 6:9-13).

In 1 Thessalonians 5:17, we are encouraged to pray without ceasing. How do we do that? In your mind, you can lift up a prayer to God throughout the day. Praying may be one of the hardest things you do, but never stop praying!

The Word of God represents all the possibilities of God
as at the disposal of true prayer.
~A.T. Pierson~

THURSDAY November 17, 2022

Breaking of Bread and Prayer

Acts 2:46-47

The early church broke bread together. They had a time of communion in remembrance of Christ’s sacrifice. The bread represents His broken body and the cup is symbolic of His blood shed on the Cross. Before His death, Jesus instituted communion with His disciples. He explained the meaning of the bread and the cup. Interestingly, it also points to His return:

…the Lord Jesus on the same night in which He was betrayed took bread;  and when He had given thanks, He broke it and said, “Take, eat; this is My body which is broken for you; do this in remembrance of Me.” In the same manner He also took the cup after supper, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in My blood. This do, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of Me.”  For as often as you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death till He comes (1 Corinthians 11:23-26).

Here at Calvary Chapel Golden Springs, we take communion once a month. During the communion service––breaking of the bread, partaking of the cup together––brings oneness. Before partaking of communion, every person examines their lives before the Lord––to make sure things are right before Him. Communion should never be taken in an unworthy manner (1 Corinthians 11:27-32). With a clean and open heart, be ready to receive all that God desires to bestow upon your life.

Know this: when we diligently study the Word of God, and are consistent in prayer, then communion and fellowship will naturally become a part of our Christian walk.

No Spiritual Discipline is more important than the intake of God’s Word. Nothing can substitute for it. There simply is no healthy Christian life apart from a diet of the milk and meat of Scripture.
~Donald S. Whitney~

WEDNESDAY November 16, 2022

A Unified Church

Acts 2:43-45

In the early Church, we see unity. There was no gossip or divisions among them. Believers remained one in Christ. They gathered together to fellowship, be in the Word of God, pray and enjoy each other’s company which in turn, established the Church. As a unified Church, they exhibited all the fruits of the Spirit––love, peace and joy (Galatians 5:22-23).

Christians are to walk in the love of Jesus Christ. Why? So God can use our lives––fully and completely. Imagine, God loves us and chose us so we can influence other people around the world––South America, Mexico, Japan. We can infiltrate the whole world with the Gospel of Jesus Christ, but only if we stay in one heart and mind.

Something else we see in the Church is that they had a common faith, common fellowship, and a common community of goods. They sold everything they had and divided it among all. However, God does not ask you to sell your house and give it to the church. We do not want anything unless God has told you to give it to the church. Ministries are not to enrich themselves. Be very careful of churches that beg for money––that is a false teaching. God is not poor, He is rich! He holds the universe in His hands!

Churches are to minister to the needs of the people. I believe we must take care of our own. How is this done? Be sensitive to a person in need in the body of Christ. If you can help them financially, or in whatever way you can from what you have––that is a beautiful thing.

All Christians enjoy a unity of mission in which we have one Lord, one faith, and one baptism (Ephesians 4:4-5). There is surely disunity in the visible church, but that is not as important as the reality of the unity that we enjoy by virtue of our shared communion in Christ.
~R.C. Sproul~

TUESDAY November 15, 2022

The Fear of God

Acts 2:43-45

As people heard the doctrine of God, and learned about the establishment of the Church, it had great effect––it caused them to fear. The word fear means “to be in awe” or “to be in reverence of God.” The Lord was moving among them doing great signs and wonders. This was a holy Church!

It is incredible for me to see what God is doing in our church. After a Sunday service, a person once approached me saying, “Raul, God healed me!” I urged him to check with his doctor, who confirmed he was well. This healing was the work of the Holy Spirit. I know God is at work touching people’s lives during any service. Sometimes, a husband will ask, “Did my wife talk to you?” I respond “No.” I do not know what is going on in his marriage, but the Lord knows. When listening to a sermon, it is the Holy Spirit who reveals secrets and convicts people.

Our church has become well-known throughout America and the world. Even persecuted Christians in China pray for us! I meet people all the time; they easily recognize my voice and say, “I know who you are, I hear you on the radio!” It happens all the time! A lady in a restaurant, a man in the airport or a policeman I meet, will say, “I go to Calvary Chapel.” It puts a godly fear in my heart. I feel responsible as a pastor.

Seriously, at times I am concerned that people place their eyes on me. Please, do not put your eyes on me, I will fail you. Have your eyes on the Lord. I am just His representative. Like Peter, I teach doctrine and I know I will have a stricter judgment if I misrepresent the Lord (James 3:1).

As you become a doer of the Word, and not a hearer only, you become a part of God’s great work. Look around, see and hear what God is doing. Have a godly fear in your life––stand in awe of what God is doing. People in our church are being saved––amazing, amazing!

The fear of God is the beginning of wisdom, and they that lack the beginning have neither middle nor end.
~John Bunyan~

MONDAY November 14, 2022

The Importance of Prayer

James 5:16

Prayer is extremely important in the body of Christ. On occasion, it is good to break up into different small groups to pray. As we do, who can we pray for? We can pray for the men and women who lead in any capacity, and for all those working in our government. The Apostle Paul directed us to pray for those in positions of authority:

…I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence (1 Timothy 2:1-3).

Also, it is our Christian duty to pray for the sick and the weak. In the Scriptures, further instruction is given to those who are sick. They are to have the elders in the church pray for them:

Is anyone among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer of faith will save the sick, and the Lord will raise him up. And if he has committed sins, he will be forgiven (James 5:14-15).

Always pray earnestly for those in church leadership. Especially that Satan does not draw them away, and that they can stand strong in the faith as they remain set apart to God. Most importantly, pray for America and that God would spiritually revive us. In 2 Chronicles 7:14, God calls us to pray:

…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.

I believe, most Christians have a heart for prayer, but many others do not. Understand, prayer is not just one way––communicating with God. It is also a time of listening to Him. Have your Bible open in times of prayer so God can speak to you through His Word.

To be a Christian without prayer is no more possible
than to be alive without breathing.
~Martin Luther~

SUNDAY November 13, 2022

Members of One Another

Romans 12:5

Some people wonder about church membership. The Bible teaches that we are all members of each other. There is no need for a membership or to have a certificate given to you saying you are members of Calvary Chapel Golden Springs. In Jesus Christ, we are members of each other, and as we fellowship together, we have a common communion.

When you come to church, do not just sit through the service and immediately leave. Take the time to get to know someone. When we just come and go, people will begin to feel like a number. We are a family in Christ. We have all kinds of people in the congregation from all walks of life and from all different ethnic backgrounds. Yet we are one body––all sons and daughters of God.

Sometimes people begin to build friendships in church that become cliques. Those in cliques only hang out with certain people they like. That is not good. Why? What often develops among their select group is spiritual pride. They begin to look down on others who are not a part of their group. People are made to feel like they do not belong because they are not spiritual enough. That causes division. God help us! Seriously, there should be no respecter of persons in the body of Christ. We are all the same in God’s eyes.

In fact, I believe it is good, once in a while, to invite other people from our congregation to our homes to fellowship. On occasion, ask another believer to go out to eat. We all have a responsibility to get to know each other. Go out of your way and be sensitive to others.

We are one unit–-brothers and sisters in Christ. Open your heart to be of one mind and one spirit with others. When we are one, God will bring revival. I challenge you, take time to fellowship, and you will be blessed with the new friendships you will make.

The physical presence of other Christians is a source of incomparable joy and strength to the believer.
~Dietrich Bonhoeffer~

SATURDAY November 12, 2022

Word, Fellowship and Prayer

Acts 2:42

The early church continued steadfastly in the study of God’s Word, fellowship and prayer. An important part of the apostles’ work was the basic teaching of the Word of God.

At this particular time in church history, the disciples of Christ had the Word of God written on scrolls. They did not have Bibles. Imagine, the book of Acts was not even written by Luke. Paul had not been converted, and so, his 14 letters were not written either. Yet believers were able to study the Old Testament Scriptures as they were now translated into the Greek language and in wide use. From what they had of God’s Word, they studied and believed by faith in it.

I have heard that persecuted Christians in China may only have one page of the Bible, but they have faith and believe. We all have a Bible with 66 books written. It is the precious Word of God, but do we take the time to read it? God wants us to be a true seeker of His Word, and to diligently study the Scriptures: Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth (2 Timothy 2:15). We need to hunger and thirst for the Word of God.

Fellowship among believers in the body of Christ is essential. The word fellowship in the Greek language is koinonia. It means “the intimate bond of fellowship which unites Christians, oneness.” Christians participate with other believers and enjoy a sense of community. Fellowshipping with other believers helps us get to know one another. Then we can pray for each other’s needs. Take into account, prayer to the Christian is as oxygen to the body. Without it you will not survive!

As a Christian, in which area are you lacking? Do you need to be more disciplined in reading the Word of God, make a better effort to fellowship and not be so isolated or are you neglecting prayer?

We will never become truly spiritual by sitting down
and wishing to become so.
~Philips Brooks~

FRIDAY November 11, 2022

Veterans Day

Psalm 144:1

Veterans Day was formerly called Armistice Day. November 11 marks the end of World War 1, which happened on November 11, 1918. However, Veterans Day celebrates the service of all U.S. Military veterans and should not be confused with Memorial Day, which remembers those who have died in serving our great country.

The high cost of our freedom should never be forgotten. Veterans Day reminds us to pause and remember to honor those men and women from all branches of the military who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces. They have fought courageously to keep America free!

As a former Marine, we lived and died by this one important motto: “Until they are home, no man left behind.” We took our dead and wounded with us––no one would be forgotten on the battlefield. Each Marine loyally took care of the man next to him. It was ingrained in us to look out for the welfare of other Marines. We were brothers in arms.

This world in which we live is unstable. We are shocked by the unthinkable evil of Russia’s attack against the innocent people of Ukraine. Iran is supplying Russia with suicide drones, and Israel has been warned by Russia not to help Ukraine. There are threats of nuclear weapons being used. Europe has become unstable. The war has caused an energy crisis. Third world countries are lacking grain that is usually shipped from Ukraine. It will cause many men, women and children to face starvation this spring.

This year, China is still threatening to invade Taiwan, and North Korea has sent missiles flying over Japan. Some question, “Are these events leading up to World War III?” We know we are living in the Last Days, as we await our Lord’s return. However, men and women are still fighting for freedom, and they need our constant intercession.

Freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction. We didn’t pass it to our children in the bloodstream. It must be fought for, protected, and handed on for them to do the same.
~Ronald Regan~

THURSDAY November 10, 2022

Church Growth

Acts 2:46-47

How did the Apostles continue to teach 3,000 people? At this time, they did not have any church buildings, so Christians, in small cell groups, gathered in homes to study the Word of God.

These 3,000 converts all had one mind, had all things in common, and all fellowshipped together without any divisions. They had one goal, and that was to learn about God’s Word. There were no gossip sessions; instead, they had prayer meetings. These Christians truly cared for one another and took the initiative to pray and seek the Lord on behalf of each other. This Church had thousands of people, and yet they all got along very well.

Some people complain our church is too big, but it is no different from the early church. They all got along, and we should follow that good example. One thing I pray for is that we continue to keep the same principle goal of being a Bible teaching ministry––a Church that teaches solid doctrine. It is vitally important to teach through the Bible from Genesis to Revelation. Remember, there is nothing new under the sun.

Some people have left churches that teach the Word of God for emotional experiences, miracles and wonders. Churches whose focus is on these things will have to try every week to do something even more miraculous to keep people entertained––sad. I believe in healing and all 21 gifts of the Holy Spirit, but I do not like people misusing God’s gifts. They over- emphasize these things. As a child of God, make sure you go home and study what was said from the pulpit. If you are not doing that, you are a candidate to become deceived.

Whatever means you use to get people into church is precisely what you must use to keep them. If you get them with a ‘religious circus,’ then you must keep the circus going––keep up the entertainment. If you get them with biblical preaching and teaching, then that will keep them and you will not need entertainment.
~Ernest Reisinger~

WEDNESDAY November 9, 2022

Remain a Steadfast Disciple

Acts 2:42-45

In the early church, a key principle to notice was the importance placed on the Apostles teaching the Word of God. This was the main emphasis. The very first thing the Apostles did was to make sure there was a healthy, systematic teaching throughout the entire Word of God.

The word steadfastly in Greek means “persevering or enduring, in the Apostles doctrine.” They word doctrine in Greek means “a particular principle or position taught.” Some people will complain about sitting for an hour listening to God’s Word on Sunday mornings. I wish I could teach two hours! I love teaching God’s Word.

Notice, there was not a big out-of-control Holy Spirit revival. There was order in the Church. If there is a lot of emotion and entertainment in any church, what happens when all the emotions and the hype is gone? If there is only a five to twenty minute devotional taught from the Word of God, what will happen? People will not become grounded in God’s Word. The Word of God is the most important part of our Christian growth. Be in the Book! The Word of God needs to abide in our hearts. Everything else will fade away, but the Word of God abides––forever (1 Peter 1:25).

The Word of God must sink way down in our hearts and take root. My concern as a pastor is that every believer is growing in God’s grace and knowledge. How are you developing and overcoming temptation? How are you being victorious during the week? John Bunyan had written on the inside of his Bible: “Either, this book will keep you from sin, or sin will keep you from this book.” What statement correctly describes your life?

It is an undoubted truth that every doctrine that comes from God, leads to God; and that which doth not tend to promote holiness is not of God.
~George Whitefield~

TUESDAY November 8, 2022

The Sin of Gossip

Proverbs 20:19 NASB

We are a family. We should not be talking or backbiting about any of our brothers and sisters in Christ. When someone comes to you, saying, “I want you to pray for a certain brother,” and you respond, “Why?” They may continue to say, “Well, you see, I am not sure I should tell you, but if you just keep this confidential, just between you and me, in prayer, it’s because he is having all these problems.” That is gossip!

If God told you to pray for your brother, then you should pray and keep your mouth closed. Put a lock around your lips. People love to hear stories. Once you begin to gossip, they become even more curious and say, “Tell me more!” When someone is hurting, and they have a real need, you are to pray for them in confidence. Keep it secret between you and them. That is what God wants you to do.

As you read these Scriptures, think about the character and consequences of a gossip:

Proverbs 10:18: ...whoever spreads slander is a fool.

Proverbs 11:9: The hypocrite with his mouth destroys his neighbor....

Proverbs 11:13: A talebearer reveals secrets....

Proverbs 16:28: A perverse person stirs up conflict, and a gossip separates close friends. (NIV)

Proverbs 18:8: The words of a gossip are like choice morsels; they go down to the inmost parts. (NIV)?

Proverbs 20:19: A gossip betrays a confidence; so avoid anyone who talks too much. (NIV)

If you have a problem with gossip, ask the Lord to help you hate this sin. Gossip destroys people’s lives. Use your lips to encourage and uplift others instead.

Set a guard, O Lord, over my mouth; keep watch
over the door of my lips.
~Psalm 141:3~

MONDAY November 7, 2022

Be Saved From This Perverse Generation

Acts 2:40-41

Notice the work of the Holy Spirit in the beginning of the church. Those who heard Peter’s powerful Sermon responded and were baptized. Three thousand souls were saved. In the book of Acts, Christ’s disciples did not have to go out knocking on doors to bring people to church. They did not set up church programs or offer rewards for bringing people to church each week. Peter, in the power of the Holy Spirit, exhorted people to “be saved from this perverse generation.”

Look at what is happening around us today. We live in a perverse, crooked and self-centered generation. People watch out only for themselves. Look at the destructive sins of homosexuality, drunkenness, adultery and fornication that are prevalent in this generation. Notice the consequences victims have suffered from engaging in sexual sin. The result of adultery is broken marriages. Fornication has led to the increase of single mothers, as fathers, unwilling to do the right thing, abandon them.

When teaching a message, at times I exhort the congregation, but the people still come. This is God’s church! He speaks to each person individually. He convicts us all by His Holy Spirit, because through the power of His Word, He wants to bring about a true change in our lives. D. L. Moody rightly said, “The Bible was not given to increase our knowledge but to change our lives.” I love that.

Are you feeling anxious, hopeless and fearful in this corrupt world? If you do not know Jesus Christ, heed Peter’s exhortation today: “Be saved from this perverse generation”––come to Jesus for salvation!

Our salvation includes more than pardon from sin, deliverance from hell and a ticket to heaven. It includes all that we
shall need on our journey.
~Vance Havner~

SUNDAY November 6, 2022

True Worship

Psalm 29:2

What is true worship? Do we cheerlead people into worship and make them say, “Amen and thank you Jesus?” No! Worship is not pumped-up entertainment. People can do that at a football game or at the Dodger Stadium. Everyone joins in with the crowd to do the wave.

As a Christian grows and establishes their relationship with Jesus Christ, they worship Him in Spirit and in truth. They worship God and glorify Him for all He has done. Jesus becomes a reality in their lives. This truth was captured in a hymn written by Fanny Jane Crosby, published in 1875:

To God be the glory, great things He hath done,?

So loved He the world that He gave us His Son,?

Who yielded His life our redemption to win,?

And opened the life-gate that all may go in. 

Praise the Lord, praise the Lord,?

Let the earth hear His voice;

?Praise the Lord, praise the Lord,?

Let the people rejoice;

Oh, come to the Father, through Jesus the Son,?

And give Him the glory; great things He hath done.

We worship God from our hearts. In doing so, we should not care about those sitting next to us. We raise our hands up to God in complete surrender because He is worthy. Even throughout our day, we can utter a prayer of thanksgiving or worship the Lord as we listen to worship music.

True worship is found among Christ’s Church––believers. I will say this: anyone who comes into this church building and sits among believers seeking God will find Him. He has promised in His Word to make Himself known to those who seek Him (Jeremiah 29:13). I believe a person cannot be truly happy unless they surrender their lives to Jesus Christ. They need to know the Person they are worshiping.

Worship is giving to the Lord the glory that is due in response to what he has revealed to us and done to us in Jesus Christ his Son.
~Oswald B. Milligan~

 SATURDAY November 5, 2022

Days of Revival

Acts 2:38-39

When Peter preached his sermon, in one day three thousand people were moved by the Holy Spirit to come to Christ and be saved. This is not a myth; it really happened. The Holy Spirit was poured out, and a revival broke forth! Where were they going to place three thousand people to teach them God’s Word? What a good problem to have!

What is revival? How can we identify a revival in the body of Jesus Christ? We can see the evidence of a revival when we witness people getting saved, whether there are one, two, or a thousand people coming forward to be saved. People are moved by God’s Spirit to come to Christ. Know this: God is still moving, and He has not stopped moving. Revival still happens today!

We are all part of a revival. Be aware of what God is doing in the midst of people’s lives in the Church. God is adding to the church and reviving His people. There is a spiritual awakening as people move away from the darkness and come to the light found only in Jesus Christ. He declared Himself to be the Light of the world: “I am the light of the world. He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life” (John 8:12). Those who accept Jesus as Savior are saved and receive eternal life!

The promise of the Holy Spirit is not only for those we have read about in the book of Acts. It is for us and for our children––for all who are afar off––as many as the Lord our God has called. Think about it: God has called you and me, and we are a long way off from what happened in the book of Acts, and yet, here we are––a part of this prophecy. I thank God for it!

You cannot stop a revival any more than you can start it.
It is altogether in the hands of God.
~D. Martyn Lloyd-Jones~

FRIDAY November 4, 2022

Baptized in the Faith

Acts 2:40-42

Peter was an incredible exhorter––an encourager who sought to help believers mature in Christ. Those Jews who had just repented and accepted Christ by faith were encouraged to separate themselves from a perverse generation. They were to live a holy life, set apart to God.

Incredibly, Peter witnessed the response of three thousand men who readily gave their lives to Christ. It was a dynamic move of the Holy Spirit at work in the hearts of these men. Those who accepted Christ were baptized. The word baptize means “to immerse.”

Understand that baptism does not save a person, it is not for salvation. The water does not wash away anyone’s sin. Some churches teach that in order to receive salvation you have to be baptized, only then are you saved and eternally secure. That is not biblical.

Baptism is symbolic. As your body is submerged all the way under water, it represents the death of your old man––your sinful life. Then, coming up out of the water, you rise in newness of life. You become a brand new person in Christ. Water baptism is the outward sign of the glorious transformation that has happened inwardly in a believer’s life.

As a Christian, you need to be baptized, as it is a biblical doctrine. If you were baptized as a child or sprinkled with water, that is according to manmade tradition. Children are dedicated to the Lord; they are not baptized (1 Samuel 1:19-28). Those who are young need to reach an age of accountability; this is when they can make up their own minds about receiving Jesus as their Savior. It is important for them to understand what they are doing.

Remember, according to biblical doctrine, a person is to repent of their sin and place their faith in Jesus Christ for salvation.

You can contribute nothing to your salvation
except the sin that made it necessary.
~Jonathan Edwards~