Bible Verses and Inspirational Christian Quotes Friendship Quotes Motivational Quotes Life Quotes Love Quotes Peace Quotes Salvation Quotes And More !

Foreword

To some people the Bible is nothing more than a book filled with stories and rules; stories some people don’t even believe and rules some feel are too strict and old-fashioned. The truth, however, is that the Bible is the number one selling book of all time and continues to be so year after year after year. So what is the Bible? The Bible is a book of promises—the very word ‘Testament’ means covenant or contract. This covenant is between God and you and me. Yes, there are instructions and guidelines as to how we are supposed to live, but the blessings and rewards for our obedience are incomparable to anything and serve only to benefit us rather than hold us back. The Bible is a book of history. Every single one of the stories in there is an historical account that actually took place exactly how they are described. The Bible is also a book filled with encouragement, hope, and comfort. The words within its pages are the most valuable source of counsel you will ever receive. The purpose of this book is to provide you with a portion of the strength, wisdom, encouragement and hope of the Bible. We’ve provided you with references that address some of life’s most common problems and concerns as well as simple, yet literal explanations to these verses. These explanations are not man’s interpretations, but explanations based upon the original text (language). One thing this book is not, however, is a substitute for God’s Word, the Bible. As a Christian, it is your privilege and responsibility to spend time each day reading and studying the Bible. This book, and others similar to it, are merely meant to assist you in your understanding and personal application of the Bible.

How to Use this Book

Each topic of concern is addressed by listing pertinent verses from the Bible. Below each verse is a brief explanation of the verse which will allow you to see how applicable it is to your life and to allow you to benefit from the wisdom of God Almighty.

Table of Contents

Assurance Baptism Death Despair Encouragement Faith Friendship Funeral God Hope Lifestyle Love and Marriage Peace Prayer Salvation Scripture Strength Temptation

ASSURANCE The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children. ~Romans 8:16 When you accept Christ as their Savior as instructed in the Bible (see SALVATION and BAPTISM), the Holy Spirit comes to live within you. The Holy Spirit does not take away your conscience or your freedom to make your own choices. The Holy Spirit lives within you to guide your heart, soul, and mind to the extent that you allow the Spirit to do so. This verse is the assurance that when you accept the gift of salvation the Holy Spirit is there to lead and guide rather than leaving you to your own devices. This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us. ~1st John 5:14 God is real. He is all-knowing, all-seeing, all-hearing, and ever-present. It is impossible for him not to hear and listen to us. And because he is God, the creator and ruler of all, knowing we have the assurance of his listening ear is life-changing. Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him. ~James 1:12 Life is neither fair nor easy. God never promised it would be. What he does promise, however, is that those who remain faithful and obedient to him, rather than letting life pull them away from him, will have the assurance of spending all eternity in heaven with him. The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake. Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely your goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever. ~Psalm 23 It is no wonder that the 23rd Psalm is one of the most popular passages in the Bible. This psalm is filled with assurances. The words of this Psalm assure us that when we put our faith and trust in him, he leads us, he protects us, paves the way for us, provides for us, sustains us, blesses us, and has prepared a forever home for us. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. ~Philippians 4:6-7

You don’t have to worry…about anything. No, seriously, you don’t. All you have to do is go to God in prayer; pouring your heart out to him. You can tell him the good, bad, and the everything in between with the assurance that he listens, cares, and will act accordingly. Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit who gives life has set you free from the law of sin and death. ~Romans 8:1-2 Jesus’ death on the cross was a payment or punishment for our sins. When we acknowledge what a precious gift this was, and accept Christ as our Savior, we have the assurance that we are saved. Saved from what? Saved from an eternity in hell. My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever. ~Psalm 73:26 Life on earth is temporary, but those who have been saved have the assurance of God’s love and care for all eternity. “Very truly I tell you, whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life and will not be judged but has crossed over from death to life. ~John 5:24 Everyone who accepts Jesus as their Lord and Savior and lives for him has the assurance of spending eternity in heaven. We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed. We always carry around in our body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be revealed in our body. ~2nd Corinthians 4:8-10 When we allow the Holy Spirit to actively live in us, nothing this world throws our way can break us or destroy us. Surely God is my salvation; I will trust and not be afraid. The Lord, the Lord himself, is my strength and my defense; he has become my salvation.” ~Isaiah 12:2 God created us in his image. He loves us and wants nothing more than to care for us, protect us, and provide for us. When we accept the gift of salvation and put our faith in him, we have no reason to fear anything. The Lord will rescue me from every evil attack and will bring me safely to his heavenly kingdom. To him be glory for ever and ever. Amen. ~2nd Timothy 4:18 As Christians, we have the assurance that God can and will bring something good out of even the worst situations we face and that heaven will be worth any pain and suffering we might endure here on earth.

BAPTISM NOTE: The Greek word in the original text for ALL of these verses is baptizo or baptisma. Both words mean to submerge or to dip under—they are simply different cases or tenses of the word. This fact, along with the accompanying text solidifies the truth that baptism by immersion is essential for salvation. Then Jesus came from Galilee to the Jordan to be baptized by John…. As soon as Jesus was baptized, he went up out of the water. At that moment heaven was opened, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and alighting on him. And a voice from heaven said, “This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased.” ~Matthew 3:13, 16-17 God calls us to be like Jesus; to be his obedient children. Jesus’ baptism in the Jordan River was the starting point for Jesus’ ministry. It is, therefore, our starting point in being one of God’s children. Now John also was baptizing at Aenon near Salim, because there was plenty of water, and people were coming and being baptized. ~John 3:23 This verse verifies the fact that baptism is through immersion. Why else would there need to be plenty of water? “Therefore let all Israel be assured of this: God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Messiah.” When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and the other apostles, “Brothers, what shall we do?” Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. ~Acts 2:36-38 The infamous sermon on the Day of Pentecost is the day the Church (post-resurrection) began. The Holy Spirit gave these words to Peter—the words of instruction for all who want to be saved by the blood of Jesus Christ. Jesus answered, “Very truly I tell you, no one can enter the kingdom of God unless they are born of water and the Spirit. ~John 3:5 Just as an infant must come from the bag of water to be born into this world, we must come from out of the water to be born into the family of God. And now what are you waiting for? Get up, be baptized and wash your sins away, calling on his name. ~Acts 22:16 Being immersed is the physical act of submission to God’s will and accepting his gift of forgiveness of sins.

...to those who were disobedient long ago when God waited patiently in the days of Noah while the ark was being built. In it only a few people, eight in all, were saved through water, and this water symbolizes baptism that now saves you also—not the removal of dirt from the body but the pledge of a clear conscience toward God. ~1st Peter 3:20-21 There is nothing magical or spiritual about the water in which you are baptized. It is the symbolic act of obedience and cleansing that allows God to forgive sins and give the gift of the Holy Spirit. Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned. ~Mark 16:16 Believing and baptism are essential for salvation and eternity with God in heaven. Not just believing and not just baptism—the two go hand in hand. If you believe you will be baptized as well as being faithful and obedient. We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life. ~Romans 6:4 Our baptism symbolizes our burial into death—a temporary burial and death, just as Jesus’ death and burial were temporary. In baptism, we are acknowledging our faith and belief in the power of the cross for our salvation and eternal life in heaven. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit ~Matthew 28:19 Not only are we to be baptized in order to become part of God’s family, we have been commanded by Jesus Christ to take the message of the Gospel of salvation to everyone around us. There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called; one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all. ~Ephesians 4:4-6 There is only one true God; God the father, Jesus the son, and the Holy Spirit. There is only one way to salvation and that is through Jesus Christ and the commands he gave for us to be baptized for the forgiveness of our sins.

DEATH …and the dust returns to the ground it came from, and the spirit returns to God who gave it. ~Ecclesiastes 12:7 You’ve heard it said that the only sure things in life are death and taxes. But the death of our physical bodies is not the end for any of us. Our spirit will live on. It is the spirit God gave us when he created us. The only question is where that spirit will spend eternity—in heaven or in hell. The choice is ours to make. For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. ~John 3:16 For all who accept salvation through Jesus’ death on the cross through complete obedience and faith, death is only the beginning of the wonderful blessings God has in store for us. For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. ~Romans 6:23 This life is not the only life, and for those who fail to accept Jesus Christ as their Savior, the penalty is what the book of Revelation refers to as the ‘second death’—eternity in hell. A good name is better than fine perfume, and the day of death better than the day of birth. ~Ecclesiastes 7:1 We are all born into this life the very same way. We are born pure and sinless—a clean slate, you might say. It’s what we do with the life we are given that really matters. On the day of our physical death, the life we’ve lived is what is going to matter to God. We will be judged by how we have lived. Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die… ~John 11:25 Salvation through Jesus Christ is the only way to gain eternity in heaven. The only way. But the cowardly, the unbelieving, the vile, the murderers, the sexually immoral, those who practice magic arts, the idolaters and all liars—they will be consigned to the fiery lake of burning sulfur. This is the second death.” ~Revelation 21:8 Everyone likes to talk about heaven and going to a better place. No one likes to talk about the reality of hell, but it is a very real place that will be filled with very real people who have ignored the message of the Gospel.

For we know that if the earthly tent we live in is destroyed, we have a building from God, an eternal house in heaven, not built by human hands…. Now the one who has fashioned us for this very purpose is God, who has given us the Spirit as a deposit, guaranteeing what is to come. ~2nd Corinthians 5:1, 5 The spirit God has given us is our reassurance and hope that there is life after death here on earth. We know our bodies are not meant to last forever, but that’s more than okay for those who are in Christ, because our new bodies and our new home are going to be more than we can imagine.

DESPAIR The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears them; he delivers them from all their troubles. The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. ~Psalm 34:17-18 While God doesn’t promise a life free from pain and difficulties, he does promise to be there to help us work through our problems and to protect us from Satan’s power. He can only do this, however, when we trust him enough to do so. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you. ~1st Peter 5:7 No one loves or cares for you more that your creator. The fact that he is the one true God; allpowerful and all-knowing makes it possible for him to take care of us in every way. But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong. ~2nd Corinthians 12:9-10 When we allow God to work in us instead of trying to do everything on our own and in our own way, God’s power, glory, and perfect plan for us are allowed to be seen and experienced by us and by those around us. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. ~Philippians 4:6-7 When we trust in God and give him our hearts, he never lets us down. Even in difficult times, he will give us a peace and comfort nothing in the world can match…nothing. He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds. ~Psalm 147:3 Jesus is sometimes called the Great Physician. This is because he is the healer of broken hearts. His love for us is so deep that he wants nothing more than to comfort us when we are sad and hurting. When I said, “My foot is slipping,” your unfailing love, Lord, supported me. When anxiety was great within me, your consolation brought me joy. ~Psalm 94:18-19 All we have to do is ask and God is ready, willing, and more than able to help us. Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus ~Romans 8:1 No matter what happens in this life, if we belong to Jesus, we have the hope of eternity with him.

ENCOURAGEMENT Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart. ~Psalm 37:4 When our hearts are seeking God’s will for our life he will give us the desires of our heart because the desires of our heart will be the desires of his heart for us, too. I lift up my eyes to the mountains—where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth. ~Psalm 121:1-2 The one who made you is the most qualified to help you, and he always will. Every word of God is flawless; he is a shield to those who take refuge in him. ~Proverbs 30:5 God doesn’t lie or break promises. God is always there to help and guide us when we let him. For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. ~Jeremiah 29:11-13 God has a plan for each of us. His plan for us will give us a peace, comfort, and fulfillment like none other. He does not force himself on us, however, so if we want to live a blessed and purposeful life, we must go to him and surrender our hearts and lives to him. Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity. ~1st Timothy 4:12 While age and experience do have much to offer, age does not always equal maturity and wisdom. Be the hands, heart, and feet of Jesus to everyone you come in contact with. Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy— think about such things. ~Philippians 4:8 There’s enough negativity in this world, don’t you agree? Follow Paul’s instructions and you’ll find yourself smiling, feeling more confident, and seeing the good in people and situations instead of always dwelling on what’s wrong in the world and in your life. For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. ~John 3:16 Accepting Jesus Christ as Savior with our whole heart assures us of eternity in heaven with him.

FAITH Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see. ~Hebrews 11:1 Faith is knowing in your heart and in your head that something is—even though you may not be able to touch, see, or hear it. Having faith in God’s existence and power must come from your heart, soul, and mind even though you’ve never seen him. Faith is knowing the works of God are just that…from the hand of God. And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him. ~Hebrews 11:6 If you don’t have faith, the things you do to serve God and others in his name are nothing more than good deeds. For no word from God will ever fail. ~Luke 1:37 It is impossible for God to be anything less than perfect. His words are true yesterday, today, and tomorrow. What good is it, my brothers and sisters, if someone claims to have faith but has no deeds? Can such faith save them? Suppose a brother or a sister is without clothes and daily food. If one of you says to them, “Go in peace; keep warm and well fed,” but does nothing about their physical needs, what good is it? In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead. ~James 2:14-17 Faith is believing in God completely and totally without reservation. When you do, it is only natural to act upon that faith by serving both God and others. If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you. But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. That person should not expect to receive anything from the Lord. ~James 1:5-7 You can’t have an “I think I believe” kind of faith—not if you want to experience God’s blessings, anyway. Mature faith is a process, though—one that grows best when used. Jesus replied, “What is impossible with man is possible with God.” ~Luke 18:27 Nothing is too big or too difficult for God. His ways are always perfect.

I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. ~Galatians 2:20 Faith is an undying gratitude for the gift of salvation and causes you to live your life making decisions and choices based upon this gratitude.

FRIENDSHIP Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up. ~Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 God created Eve because he knew Adam needed someone. We are relational beings. We need friends. Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. ~John 15:13 Loyalty is one of, if not the most essential quality of friendship. As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another. ~Proverbs 27:17 We all need at least one friend who will hold us accountable and encourage growth in our relationship with God. Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. ~1st Peter 4:8-9 God is calling us to accept our friends for who they are, to be forgiving, and to be sincere. Do to others as you would have them do to you. ~Luke 6:31 The Golden Rule—it doesn’t get any simpler than that. I thank my God every time I remember you. ~Philippians 1:3 Be thankful for your friends and pray for them often. They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. ~Acts 2:42 The fellowship of Christian friends is essential for spiritual growth and remaining true to God. Better a dry crust with peace and quiet than a house full of feasting, with strife. ~Proverbs 17:1 Do not choose your friends for what they do, how much money they make, or the house they live in. Choose your friends based upon their integrity and sincerity.

FUNERAL Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; 26 and whoever lives by believing in me will never die. Do you believe this?” ~John 11:25-26 A funeral is a ritual of mourning and grieving the loss of a loved one, but for those who have surrendered their life to Christ, it is a celebration of the beginning of eternity in heaven with God. For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. ~Philippians 1:21 For Christians, dying is the beginning of an indescribably joyous eternity with the Savior. Whoever acknowledges me before others, I will also acknowledge before my Father in heaven. But whoever disowns me before others, I will disown before my Father in heaven. ~Matthew 10:32-33 Death is the beginning of eternity for everyone, but not everyone will spend eternity in heaven with God. Only those who accept Christ as their Savoir and who live a life of faithful obedience will spend eternity with God. A good name is better than fine perfume, and the day of death better than the day of birth. ~Ecclesiastes 7:1 The day of your death (and the days immediately following) tell the story of your life; how you were perceived by others, how you were loved by others and how well you loved others.

GOD “I am the Alpha and the Omega,” says the Lord God, “who is, and who was, and who is to come, the Almighty.” Revelation 1:8 God was, is, and always will be. This is a difficult concept for some to grasp, but without accepting this truth in faith, we cannot belong to God. We cannot be saved. He made the earth by his power; he founded the world by his wisdom and stretched out the heavens by his understanding. When he thunders, the waters in the heavens roar; he makes clouds rise from the ends of the earth. He sends lightning with the rain and brings out the wind from his storehouses. ~Jeremiah 51:15-16 God is the creator and master of the universe. Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows. ~James 1:17 God is constant, consistent, and desires to bless us with the life he has planned for us. For the Lord is our judge, the Lord is our lawgiver, the Lord is our king; it is he who will save us. ~Isaiah 33:22 There is no hope for eternity outside of giving our whole heart and life to God through Jesus Christ. Moses said to God, “Suppose I go to the Israelites and say to them, ‘The God of your fathers has sent me to you,’ and they ask me, ‘What is his name?’ Then what shall I tell them?” God said to Moses, “I am who I am. This is what you are to say to the Israelites: ‘I am has sent me to you.’” ~Exodus 3:13-14 God’s answer of “I AM” tells Moses that he was, is, and always will be the one true God. Then Job replied to the Lord: “I know that you can do all things; no purpose of yours can be thwarted. ~Job 42:1-2 God is master of the universe. He can do anything he wants to do. God’s purpose for the universe will be fulfilled. …one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all. ~Ephesians 4:6 There is only one God. There has never been another God. There never will be another God.

HOPE Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. ~Romans 12: 12 The hope we have of spending eternity with Christ is what gives us the strength to remain faithful. It is because of our hope in Christ that we continue to pray for comfort, wisdom, and guidance. It is because of our hope in Christ that we know he will make something good out of even the worst of situations. Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. ~Deuteronomy 31:6 God promises to never leave us to our own devices—especially when it comes to fighting off Satan and everything he tempts us with and throws our way. But blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him. ~Jeremiah 17:7 God’s love is unconditional no matter where you are, no matter what you do, and no matter how you feel about him. BUT God cannot bless you if you are not close enough to God to receive his blessings and acknowledge them for what they are. Therefore, since we have such a hope, we are very bold. ~2nd Corinthians 3:12 You do not have to be afraid to live a life of faith and obedience to God. Yes, people are dying every day for no other reason than they are Christians, but they aren’t afraid to be bold for Christ because they have the hope of heaven. You, too, can be bold in sharing your faith, because no matter what happens, you ‘win’.

LIFESTYLE For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. ~Romans 6:23 God created us to be his children. But because God is holy and perfect, he cannot be in the presence of sin. Therefore, anyone who lives a sinful lifestyle cannot spend eternity in heaven. For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will find it. ~Matthew 16:25 The life this verse is talking about is your eternal life. Anyone desiring to spend eternity with God must lose their selfish, do-it-on-my-own attitude and surrender their heart, soul, and mind to God. Or do you not know that wrongdoers will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: Neither the sexually immoral nor idolaters nor adulterers nor men who have sex with men nor thieves nor the greedy nor drunkards nor slanderers nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God. ~1st Corinthians 6:9-10 The Bible is very clear on what God calls sin. To be faithful and obedient to God is to live as he instructs us to. To believe otherwise is to defy God and to risk salvation through Jesus. Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. ~Ephesians 6:10-17 God’s expectations for us are clear and direct, but he knows we cannot do it on our own. He doesn’t even expect or want us to. Instead, he provides us with everything we need to be one with him. We are never alone when we join ourselves to God. But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. ~Galatians 5:22-23 These are the character attributes God desires for his children. We cannot go wrong when we live a life that reflects the fruit of the spirit.

Make every effort to live in peace with everyone and to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord. ~Hebrews 12:14 Oh, this is a hard one, but it is something we must do if we are to be one with Christ. Keeping the peace doesn’t mean being walked on, abused, or taken advantage of. Keeping the peace means to do what is right and good at all times and to not lose your temper even when you are angry. For God did not call us to be impure, but to live a holy life. ~1st Thessalonians 4:7 We are created to be God’s children. It isn’t God’s intent or desire that we live sinful lives. Instead, we have been created to live holy lives—lives that are pleasing to God. Remember, though, holy doesn’t mean perfect—that is impossible. Holy means consciously striving to please God in all we do. Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy— think about such things. ~Philippians 4:8 To be a person of Godly character, integrity, and honor—this is who we have been crated to be.

LOVE & MARRIAGE Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. ~1st Corinthians 13:4-7 The world is always searching for the meaning of love. They’re simply looking in all the wrong places. This is the definition of love. Wives, submit yourselves to your own husbands as you do to the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife as Christ is the head of the church, his body, of which he is the Savior. ~Ephesians 5:22-23 The women’s movement and the cry for equal rights has given submission a bad name. This, however, is the world’s view of submission—not God’s view. When a marriage is built on a Godly foundation, submission is a good thing because a husband would never ask anything of his wife that would be displeasing to God. Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her. ~Ephesians 5:25 A Godly husband has a responsibility of being the leader of his home—and to lead with a love as intense as Christ’s love for the church. That is why a man leaves his father and mother and is united to his wife, and they become one flesh. ~Genesis 2:24 Marriage is the beginning of a new family. This is not to say extended family is not important, but a new home is to be established. Marriage should be honored by all, and the marriage bed kept pure, for God will judge the adulterer and all the sexually immoral. Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.” Hebrews 13:4-5 Marriage is to be between a man and a woman. God directs us to be sexually pure on our wedding night and to live with our spouse ‘til death do us part’. Do not be yoked together with unbelievers. For what do righteousness and wickedness have in common? Or what fellowship can light have with darkness? ~2nd Corinthians 6:14

This verse plainly tells us that as Christians, we are not to marry non-Christians. If you are married to a non-Christian, this does not mean you should divorce your spouse. Pray diligently and work toward winning them to Christ. Keep on loving one another as brothers and sisters. Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it. ~Hebrews 13:1-2 This verse is further instruction for us to love others as we love ourselves and to do to others as we wish them to do to us. Anyone who divorces his wife and marries another woman commits adultery, and the man who marries a divorced woman commits adultery. ~Luke 16:18 Divorce is rampant in our society; accepted and even expected. This is not God’s desire for his people.

PEACE Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with all of you. ~2nd Thessalonians 3:16 Peace is a state of mind. Like happiness, we can be at peace anywhere and in any situation if we decide to be. This kind of peace is the knowledge of the presence of God in our lives always and forever no matter what. I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world. ~John 16:33 No matter what happens in this world, God is in control and in the end he will be victorious. This is the peace and assurance he wants us to hold on to as we live in a sinful world. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you. ~1st Peter 5:7 We truly do not have to worry. When we are one with Christ, he can and will take care of everything and it will always work to our good. In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, Lord, make me dwell in safety. ~Psalm 4:8 Worry is unnecessary when we are one with Christ. We can sleep knowing God is in control at all times in every way. Great peace have those who love your law, and nothing can make them stumble. ~Psalm 119:165 When we live faithfully and obediently, God will always bless us for it. No, this doesn’t mean we won’t go through pain and suffering, but it does mean we have God on our side when we do, and if God is on our side, things will always turn out just as they should. Turn from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it. ~Psalm 34:14 Isn’t peace what we all want? So what better place to start in your ‘own backyard’.

PRAYER This, then, is how you should pray: “‘Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us today our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one. ~Matthew 6:9-13 The Lord’s Prayer is the model prayer. These are Jesus’ words to his disciples; telling them (and us) how to pray and what to pray for. And when you pray, do not be like the hypocrites, for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the street corners to be seen by others. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full. But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you. And when you pray, do not keep on babbling like pagans, for they think they will be heard because of their many words. Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask him. ~Matthew 6:5-8 Jesus instructed us on how to pray in the Lord’s Prayer, but he also instructs us in these verses as to how NOT to pray. Pray without ceasing. ~1st Thessalonians 5:17 We are to pray constantly. No, not 24/7, but each and every day and numerous times a day. No, this doesn’t mean we always have our heads bowed and our hands folded. Prayer can be whispered words, thoughts, and conversations as though Jesus is sitting in the seat next to us. I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people— for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. ~1st Timothy 2:1-2 We are to pray for our leaders—our political leaders. No matter how we feel about them or their politics, we are to pray for them and pray they seek God’s guidance. Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak. ~Matthew 26:41 Prayer is communication with God. This communication is essential in our relationship and to shield us from Satan and the temptations he throws at us. Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective. ~James 5:16

We are to confess our sins to God and to someone (or a few someones) we trust to hold us accountable and to encourage us. We are also to pray for each other, because God does hear our prayers and he does answer them. In the morning, Lord, you hear my voice; in the morning I lay my requests before you and wait expectantly. ~Psalm 5:3 When we pray, we should pray with the confidence that God is listening and he does answer our prayers. Sometimes his answer is yes, sometimes his answer is no, and sometimes his answer is not just yet. The Lord is far from the wicked, but he hears the prayer of the righteous. ~Proverbs 15:29 God will not answer the prayers of those who are living a sinful lifestyle. His blessings are for those who are faithful and obedient to him. 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 I will forgive their sin and will heal their land. ~2nd Chronicles 7:14 God’s love for us is unconditional, but his blessings are. They are conditional upon our obedience and on our acknowledgement of God’s holiness. Every great society has destroyed itself because of its lack of Godliness—they did not turn from their wicked ways and cry out to God for healing. Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name. ~Psalm 100:4 We are to pray prayers of thanks because all we have comes from God. Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened. ~Matthew 7:7-8 Jesus isn’t talking about BMWs, padded bank accounts, or a trouble-free life. Jesus is saying that when we are sincerely seeking God’s will and blessings for our life, he will give them.

SALVATION Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned. ~Mark 16:16 Baptism by immersion is essential for salvation. Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. ~Acts 2:38 Peter is relaying Jesus’ words in regards to what is required of us to be saved. Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved. ~Acts 4:12 Nothing will save us from our sin except to believe, accept, and faithfully obey Jesus. And now what are you waiting for? Get up, be baptized and wash your sins away, calling on his name. ~Acts 22:16 The act of baptism by immersion is essential for salvation. It is the act that symbolically washes away our sins and is the point at which we receive the Holy Spirit. Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. ~Matthew 7:21 Anyone can say they believe in God. Only those who live their lives doing God’s will, will be saved. Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. ~John 14:6 Jesus is the son of God. His death on the cross is the sacrifice for our sins. We are saved only when we accept this gift and live our life accordingly. For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. ~John 3:16 God sacrificed his only son, Jesus. Jesus died a painful and agonizing death for us. He was completely innocent and perfect. He died for our sins. When we accept this gift in its entirety, we are saved.

SCRIPTURE All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work. ~2nd Timothy 3:16-17 ALL scripture is relevant to our lives. It is as relevant today as it was when it was written. It will be as relevant until God returns as it was when it was written. For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through the endurance taught in the Scriptures and the encouragement they provide we might have hope. ~Romans 15:4 The Bible is not just stories, rules, and feel-good poems. The Bible is our life-manual. It is our guidebook to spending eternity in heaven. They are not just idle words for you—they are your life. By them you will live long in the land you are crossing the Jordan to possess. ~Deuteronomy 32:47 Moses’ words (the Law given to him by God) served to protect the Israelites from physical harm, keep them healthy, and to reveal their imperfections and inadequacies. These words (and all scripture) are valuable and essential for living a Godly life. My son, pay attention to what I say; turn your ear to my words. Do not let them out of your sight, keep them within your heart; for they are life to those who find them and health to one’s whole body. ~Proverbs 4:20-22 Studying, knowing, and obeying God’s Word makes us physically, emotionally, mentally, and spiritually healthy. Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock. ~Matthew 7:24-25 Obeying God’s Word ensures a life of blessing, comfort, and protection from sin. Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path. ~Psalm 119:105 We cannot go wrong when we live life according to God’s Word.

STRENGTH Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. ~Deuteronomy 31:6 When you accept Christ as your Savior, God will never leave your side as long as you don’t push him away. He will give you the strength and courage you need to face anything. No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it. ~1st Corinthians 10:13 Satan tempts us each and every day of our lives, but God is mightier than Satan. He will always provide a way out; a way to reject the temptation. It’s up to us, however, to take the ‘escape route’ God offers…or not. Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. ~Matthew 11:28 God never leaves us to face life alone. As long as we want him, he is there. Counsel and sound judgment are mine; I have insight, I have power. ~Proverbs 8:14 Those who live faithful and obedient lives can make this claim, because God provides these things in abundance for everyone who trusts him to do so. Your servant has killed both the lion and the bear; this uncircumcised Philistine will be like one of them, because he has defied the armies of the living God. The Lord who rescued me from the paw of the lion and the paw of the bear will rescue me from the hand of this Philistine. ~1st Samuel 17:36-37 David spoke these words before he killed Goliath. David knew God was responsible for giving him the strength to defend his father’s sheep. He also knew that defending the Israelites was an even greater responsibility; one God would provide him the wisdom and strength to do. Like David, experiencing God’s strength in our life is dependent upon our faith in God to do so.

TEMPTATION No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it. ~1st Corinthians 10:13 Satan tempts us each and every day of our lives, but God is mightier than Satan. He will always provide a way out; a way to reject the temptation. It’s up to us, however, to take the ‘escape route’ God offers…or not. Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak. ~Matthew 26:41 On our own we are not strong enough to stand against Satan. We need to be constantly seeing things from God’s perspective and to be praying for God’s strength to be present in our lives so that we can fight against temptation…and win. Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. ~James 4:7 God is more powerful than Satan. Make sure you are on the right team. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. ~Ephesians 6:11 When you spend time in The Word, in prayer, worship, and fellowship, you will be equipped to fight the sin that tries to invade your life. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet he did not sin. ~Hebrews 4:15 God sent Jesus to live among us—to experience life as we do. Jesus was able to do so without sinning, but he does understand the temptation and the difficulties we face. This is why he is the perfect Savior. Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not in them. For everything in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—comes not from the Father but from the world. The world and its desires pass away, but whoever does the will of God lives forever. ~1st John 2:15-17 It isn’t easy to resist getting lured into the trappings of a sinful world. In fact, without God it is impossible for us to resist. That is why we must stay focused on what God’s will for our life is and to be obedient in all things. God also reminds us in these verses that the world is temporary

and that anything the world offers us will not truly satisfy our needs. But living faithfully does satisfy our needs and also brings the reward of spending eternity in heaven. When tempted, no one should say, “God is tempting me.” For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does he tempt anyone. ~James 1:13 God does NOT tempt us. Satan is the tempter. God allows us to make our own choices, though; meaning we have the choice to listen to God or to Satan. Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good. ~Romans 12:21 Choose good over evil. Choose right over wrong. Choose the positive over the negative. Choose God over the world.