Monday, November 30, 2009

Psalm 5:11-12

But let all who take refuge in you be glad, let them ever sing for joy. Spread your protection over them, that those who love your name may rejoice in you. For surely, O LORD, you bless the righteous; you surround them with your favor as with a shield.

let them ever sing for joy
Psalm 33:1 Sing joyfully to the LORD, you righteous; it is fitting for the upright to praise him.
Psalm 81:1 Sing for joy to God our strength; shout aloud to the God of Jacob!
Psalm 90:14 Satisfy us in the morning with your unfailing love, that we may sing for joy and be glad all our days.
Psalm 92:4 For you make me glad by your deeds, O LORD; I sing for joy at the works of your hands.
Psalm 95:1 Come, let us sing for joy to the LORD; let us shout aloud to the Rock of our salvation.
Psalm 145:7 They will celebrate your abundant goodness and joyfully sing of your righteousness.

that those who love your name
Psalm 69:35-36 ... for God will save Zion and rebuild the cities of Judah. Then people will settle there and possess it; the children of his servants will inherit it, and those who love his name will dwell there.
Psalm 119:132 Turn to me and have mercy on me, as you always do to those who love your name.

you bless the righteous
Psalm 112:2 His children will be mighty in the land; the generation of the upright will be blessed.

you surround them
Psalm 32:7 You are my hiding place; you will protect me from trouble and surround me with songs of deliverance.

with your favor as a shield
Genesis 15:1 After this, the word of the LORD came to Abram in a vision: "Do not be afraid, Abram. I am your shield, your very great reward."

Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version® NIV®, Copyright© 1973, 1978, 1984 by International Bible Society. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

Sunday, November 29, 2009

Psalm 136:1

Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good. His love endures forever.

Give thanks
Psalm 105:1 Give thanks to the LORD, call upon his name; make known among the nations what he has done.

for he is good
Psalm 100:5 For the LORD is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations.
Psalm 106:1 Praise the LORD. Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; his love endures forever.
Psalm 145:9 The LORD is good to all; he has compassion on all he has made.
Jeremiah 33:11 "'... the sounds of joy and gladness, the voices of bride and bridegroom, and the voices of those who bring thank offerings to the house of the LORD, saying, "Give thanks to the LORD Almighty, for the LORD is good; his love endures forever." For I will restore the fortunes of the land as they were before,' says the LORD."
Nahum 1:7 The LORD is good, a refuge in times of trouble.

His love endures forever
2 Chronicles 5:13-14 The trumpeters and singers joined in unison, as with one voice, to give praise and thanks to the LORD. Accompanied by trumpets, cymbals, and other instruments, they raised their voices in praise to the LORD and sang: "He is good; his love endures forever." Then the temple of the LORD was filled with a cloud, and the priests could not perform their service because of the cloud, for the glory of the LORD filled the temple of God.
Ezra 3:11 With praise and thanksgiving they sang to the LORD: "He is good; his love for Israel endures forever." And all the people gave a great shout of praise to the LORD, because the foundation of the house of the LORD was laid.
Psalm 118:1-4 Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; his love endures forever. Let Israel say, "His love endures forever." Let the house of Aaron say, "His love endures forever." Let those who fear the LORD say, "His love endures forever."

NOTES:
Psalm 136

Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version® NIV®, Copyright© 1973, 1978, 1984 by International Bible Society. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

Saturday, November 28, 2009

Psalm 118:28-29

You are my God, and I will give you thanks; you are my God, and I will exalt you. Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; his love endures forever.

you are my God
Genesis 28:20-22 Then Jacob made a vow, saying, "If God will be with me and will watch over me on this journey I am taking and will give me food to eat and clothes to wear so that I return safely to my father's house, then the LORD will be my God and this stone that I have set up as a pillar will be God's house, and of all that you give me I will give you a tenth."
Psalm 16:2 I said to the LORD, "You are my LORD; apart from you I have no good thing."
Psalm 63:1 O God, you are my God, earnestly I seek you; my soul thirsts for you, my body longs for you, in a dry and weary land where there is no water.
Isaiah 25:1 O LORD, you are my God; I will exalt you and praise your name, for in perfect faithfulness you have done marvelous things, things planned long ago.

and I will exalt you
Exodus 15:2 "The LORD is my strength and my song; he has become my salvation. He is my God, and I will praise him, my father's God, and I will exalt him."

Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version® NIV®, Copyright© 1973, 1978, 1984 by International Bible Society. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

Friday, November 27, 2009

Psalm 107:1

Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; his love endures forever.

Give thanks to the LORD
1 Chronicles 16:8 Give thanks to the LORD, call on his name; make known among the nations what he has done.
2 Chronicles 5:13-14 The trumpeters and singers joined in unison, as with one voice, to give praise and thanks to the LORD. Accompanied by trumpets, cymbals and other instruments, they raised their voices in praise to the LORD and sang, "He is good; his love endures forever." Then the temple of the LORD was filled with a cloud, and the priests could not perform their service because of the cloud, for the glory of the LORD filled the temple of God.
Psalm 106:1 Praise the LORD. Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; his love endures forever.
Jeremiah 33:10-11 "This is what the LORD says: 'You say about this place, "It is a desolate waste, without men or animals." Yet in the towns of Judah and the streets of Jerusalem that are deserted, inhabited by neither men nor animals, there will be heard once more the sounds of joy and gladness, the voices of bride and bridegroom, and the voices of those who bring thank offerings to the house of the LORD, saying, "Give thanks to the LORD Almighty, for the LORD is good; his love endures forever." For I will restore the fortunes of the land as they were before,' says the LORD."

for he is good
2 Chronicles 7:3 When all the Israelites saw the fire coming down and the glory of the LORD above the temple, they knelt on the pavement with their faces to the ground, and they worshiped and gave thanks to the LORD, saying, "He is good; his love endures forever."

NOTES:
Psalm 107:8, 15, 21, 31, 43; 118:1, 29; 136:1

Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version® NIV®, Copyright© 1973, 1978, 1984 by International Bible Society. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

Thursday, November 26, 2009

Psalm 100:4-5

Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name. For the LORD is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations.

Enter his gates with thanksgiving
Psalm 42:4 These things I remember as I pour out my soul: how I used to go with the multitude, leading the procession to the house of God, with shouts of joy and thanksgiving among the festive throng.

and his courts with praise
Psalm 96:8 Ascribe to the LORD the glory due his name; bring an offering and come into his courts.

give thanks to him and praise his name
Psalm 116:17 I will sacrifice a thank offering to you and call on the name of the LORD.

For the LORD is good
1 Chronicles 16:34 Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; his love endures forever.

and his love endures forever
Ezra 3:11 With praise and thanksgiving they sang to the LORD: "He is good; his love to Israel endures forever." And all the people gave a great shout of praise to the LORD, because the foundation of the house of the LORD was laid.
Psalm 106:1 Praise the LORD. Give thanks to the LORD for he is good; his love endures forever.

his faithfulness continues through all generations
Psalm 108:4 For great is your love, higher than the heavens; your faithfulness reaches to the skies.
Psalm 119:90 Your faithfulness continues through all generations; you established the earth, and it endures.

NOTES:
his gates: Psalm 24:7
courts: Psalm 84:2, 10; 2 Kings 21:5; 23:11-12

Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version® NIV®, Copyright© 1973, 1978, 1984 by International Bible Society. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

Wednesday, November 25, 2009

Psalm 95:1-2

Come, let us sing for joy to the LORD; let us shout aloud to the Rock of our salvation. Let us come before him with thanksgiving and extol him with music and song.

Come
Psalm 34:11 Come, my children, listen to me; I will teach you the fear of the LORD.

let us sing for joy
Psalm 5:11 But let us who take refuge in you be glad; let them ever sing for joy. Spread your protection over them, that those who love your name may rejoice in you.

let us shout aloud
Psalm 81:1 Sing for joy to God our strength; shout aloud to the God of Jacob!
Isaiah 44:23 Sing for joy, O heavens, for the LORD has done this; shout aloud O earth beneath. Burst into song, you mountains, you forests and all your trees, for the LORD has redeemed Jacob, he displays his glory in Israel.
Zephaniah 3:14 Sing O Daughter of Zion; shout aloud, O Israel! Be glad and rejoice with all your heart, O Daughter of Jerusalem!

to the Rock of our salvation
2 Samuel 22:47 "The LORD lives! Praise be to my Rock! Exalted be God, the Rock, my Savior!"

Let us come before him
Psalm 100:2 Worship the LORD with gladness; come before him with joyful songs.
Micah 6:6 With what shall I come before the LORD and bow down before the exalted God? Shall I come before him with burnt offerings, with calves a year old?

with thanksgiving
Psalm 42:4 These things I remember as I pour out my soul: how I used to go with the multitude, leading the procession to the house of God, with shouts of joy and thanksgiving among the festive throng.

and extol him with music and song
Psalm 81:2 Begin the music, strike the tambourine, play the melodious harp and lyre.
Ephesians 5:19-20 Speak to one another with psalms, hymns and spiritual songs. Sing and make music in your heart to the Lord, always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version® NIV®, Copyright© 1973, 1978, 1984 by International Bible Society. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

Tuesday, November 24, 2009

Psalm 75:1

We give thanks to you, O God, we give thanks, for your name is near; men tell of your wonderful deeds.

we give thanks, for your name is near
Psalm 145:18 The LORD is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth.
Psalm 7:17 I will give thanks to the LORD because of his righteousness and will sing praise to the name of the LORD Most High.
Psalm 28:7 The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and I am helped. My heart leaps for joy and I will give thanks to him in song.
Psalm 30:12 ... that my heart may sing to you and not be silent, O LORD my God. I will give you thanks forever.
Psalm 35:18 I will give you thanks in the great assembly; among throngs of people I will praise you.

men tell of your wonderful deeds
Joshua 3:5 Joshua told the people, "Consecrate yourselves, for tomorrow the LORD will do amazing things among you."
Psalm 44:1 We have heard with our ears, O God; our fathers have told us what you did in their days, in days long ago.
Psalm 71:16 I will come and proclaim your mighty acts, O Sovereign LORD; I will proclaim your righteousness, yours alone.
Psalm 77:12 I will meditate on all your works and consider all your mighty deeds.
Psalm 105:2 Sing to him, sing praise to him; tell of all his wonderful acts.
Psalm 107:8, 15 Let them give thanks to the LORD for his unfailing love and his wonderful deeds for men, ...
Psalm 145:5 They will speak of the glorious splendor of your majesty, and I will meditate on your wonderful works.
Psalm 145: 11-12 They will tell of the glory of your kingdom and speak of your might, so that all men may know of your mighty acts and the glorious splendor of your kingdom.

Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version® NIV®, Copyright© 1973, 1978, 1984 by International Bible Society. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

Monday, November 23, 2009

Psalm 30:11-12

You turned my wailing into dancing; you removed my sackcloth and clothed me with joy, that my heart may sing to you and not be silent. O LORD my God, I will give you thanks forever.

You turned my wailing
Esther 4:1 When Mordecai learned of all that had been done, he tore his clothes, put on sackcloth and ashes, and went out into the city, wailing loudly and bitterly.

into dancing
Exodus 15:20 Then Miriam the prophetess, Aaron's sister, took a tambourine in her hand, and all the women followed her, with tambourines and dancing.

you removed my sackcloth
Genesis 37:34 Then Jacob tore his clothes, put on sackcloth and mourned for his son many days.
2 Samuel 3:31 Then David said to Joab and all the people with him, "Tear your clothes and put on sackcloth and walk in mourning in front of Abner." King David himself walked behind the bier.

and clothed me with joy
Deuteronomy 16:15 For seven days celebrate the Feast to the LORD your God at the place the LORD will choose. For the LORD your God will bless you in all your harvest and in all the work of your hands, and your joy will be complete.
Psalm 16:9 Therefore my heart is glad and my tongue rejoices; my body also will rest secure, ...

O LORD my God, I will give you thanks
Psalm 35:18 I will give you thanks in the great assembly; among throngs of people I will praise you.
Psalm 75:1 We give thanks to you, O God, we give thanks for your name is near; men tell of your wonderful deeds.
Psalm 118:21 I will give you thanks, for you answered me; you have become my salvation.
Revelation 11:17 ... saying: "We give thanks to you, Lord God Almighty, the One who is and who was, because you have taken your great power and have begun to reign."

forever
Psalm 44:8 In God we make our boast all day long, and we will praise your name forever.
Psalm 52:9 I will praise you forever for what you have done; in your name I will hope, for your name is good. I will praise you in the presence of your saints.

Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version® NIV®, Copyright© 1973, 1978, 1984 by International Bible Society. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

Sunday, November 22, 2009

Colossians 2:8

See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the basic principles of this world rather than on Christ.

See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy
1 Timothy 6:20-21 Timothy, guard what has been entrusted to your care. Turn away from godless chatter and the opposing ideas of what is falsely called knowledge, which some have professed and in so doing have wandered from the faith. Grace be with you.

which depends on human tradition and the basic principles of this world rather than on Christ.
Colossians 2:20-23 Since you died with Christ to the basic principles of this world, why, as though you still belonged to it, do you submit to its rules: "Do not handle! Do not taste! Do not touch!"? These are all destined to perish with use, because they are based on human commands and teachings. Such regulations indeed have an appearance of wisdom, with their self-imposed worship, their false humility and their harsh treatment of the body, but they lack any value in restraining sensual indulgence.
Galatians 4:3 So also, when we were children, we were in slavery under the basic principles of the world.
Galatians 4:9 But now that you know God--or rather are known by God--how is it that you are turning back to those weak and miserable principles? Do you wish to be enslaved by them all over again?

Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version® NIV®, Copyright© 1973, 1978, 1984 by International Bible Society. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

Saturday, November 21, 2009

Colossians 2:6-7

So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness.

just as you received Jesus Christ as Lord
John 13:13 "You call me 'Teacher' and 'Lord', and rightly so, for that is what I am."
Colossians 1:10-12 And we pray this in order that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and may please him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God, being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience, and joyfully giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints in the kingdom of light.

continue to live in him, rooted and built up in him
Ephesians 3:16-19 I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge--that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.

strengthened in the faith as you were taught
Ephesians 4:21 Surely you heard of him and were taught in him in accordance with the truth that is in Jesus.

NOTES:
Live in him: Colossians 1:2, 27-28; 2:10-13, 20; 3:1, 3

Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version® NIV®, Copyright© 1973, 1978, 1984 by International Bible Society. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

Friday, November 20, 2009

Colossians 1:25-27

I have become its servant by the commission God gave me to present to you the word of God in its fullness--the mystery that has been kept hidden for ages and generations, but is now disclosed to the saints. To them God has chosen to make known among the Gentiles the glorious riches of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.

I have become a servant
Colossians 1:23 --if you continue in your faith, established and firm, not moved from the hope held out in the gospel. This is the gospel that you heard and that has been proclaimed to every creature under heaven, and of which I, Paul, have become a servant.
1 Corinthians 3:5 What, after all, is Apollos? And what is Paul? Only servants through whom you came to believe--so the Lord has assigned to each his task.

by the commission God gave me to present to you the word of God in its fullness
Hebrews 4:12 For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.

the mystery that has been kept hidden for ages and generations
Romans 16:25-26 Now to him who is able to establish you by my gospel and the proclamation of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery hidden for long ages past, but now revealed and made known through the prophetic writings by the command of the eternal God, so that all nations might believe and obey him--

To them God has chosen to make known among the Gentiles
Matthew 13:11 He replied, "The knowledge of the secrets of the kingdom of heaven has been given to you, but not to them."

the glorious riches of this mystery
Romans 2:4 Or do you show contempt for the riches of his kindness, tolerance and patience, not realizing that God's kindness leads you toward repentance?

which is Christ in you, the hope of glory
Romans 8:10 But if Christ is in you, your body is dead because of sin, yet your spirit is alive because of righteousness.

NOTES:
Isaiah 55:11; Romans 15:19; Ephesians 1:9; 3:6, 9

Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version® NIV®, Copyright© 1973, 1978, 1984 by International Bible Society. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

Thursday, November 19, 2009

Hebrews 13:20-21 part 2

May the God of peace, who through the blood of the eternal covenant brought back from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great Shepherd of the sheep, equip you with everything good for doing his will, and may he work in us what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.

brought back from the dead our Lord Jesus
Acts 2:24 But God raised him from the dead, freeing him from the agony of death, because it was impossible for death to keep its hold on him.

that great Shepherd of the sheep
John 10:11 "I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep."
Isaiah 40:11 He tends his flock like a shepherd: He gathers the lambs in his arms and carries them close to his heart; he gently leads those that have young.
Ezekiel 34:11 "'For this is what the Sovereign LORD says: I myself will search for my sheep and look after them.'"
John 10:2-3 "The man who enters by the gate is the shepherd of his sheep. The watchman opens the gate for him, and the sheep listen to his voice. He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out."
John 10:14 "I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me--"
John 10:27 "My sheep listen to my voice; I know them and they follow me."
1 Peter 2:25 For you were like sheep going astray, but now you have returned to the Shepherd and Overseer of your souls.
1 Peter 5:4 And when the Chief Shepherd appears you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away.

equip you with everything good for doing his will
2 Corinthians 9:8 And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.

and may he work in us what is pleasing to him
Philippians 2:13
... for it is God who works in you to will and to act according to his good pleasure.
1 John 3:22 ... and receive from him anything we ask, because we obey his commands and do what pleases him.

through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.
Romans 11:36 For from him and through him and to him are all things. To him be the glory forever! Amen.

NOTES:
Great Shepherd: Psalm 23; Ezekiel 34:11-16, 23; 37:24

Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version® NIV®, Copyright© 1973, 1978, 1984 by International Bible Society. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

Wednesday, November 18, 2009

Hebrews 13:20-21 part 1

May the God of peace, who through the blood of the eternal covenant brought back from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great Shepherd of the sheep, equip you with everything good for doing his will, and may he work in us what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.

May the God of peace
Romans 15:33 The God of peace be with you all. Amen.
Romans 16:20 The God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet. The grace of our Lord Jesus be with you.
Philippians 4:9 Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me--put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.
1 Thessalonians 5:23 May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.

the eternal covenant
Genesis 9:16 "Whenever the rainbow appears in the clouds, I will see it and remember the everlasting covenant between God and all living creatures of every kind on the earth."
Genesis 17:7 "I will establish my covenant as an everlasting covenant between me and you and your descendants after you for the generations to come, to be your God and the God of your descendants after you."
Isaiah 55:3 "Give ear and come to me; hear me that your soul may live. I will make an everlasting covenant with you, my faithful love promised to David."
Isaiah 61:8 "For I, the LORD, love justice; I hate robbery and iniquity. In my faithfulness I will reward them and make an everlasting covenant with them.
Jeremiah 31:31 "The time is coming," declares the LORD, "when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel and with the house of Judah."
Jeremiah 32:40 "I will make an everlasting covenant wih them: I will never stop doing good to them, and I will inspire them to fear me, so that they will never turn away from me."
Ezekiel 37:26 "'I will make a covenant of peace with them; it will be an everlasting covenant. I will establish them and increase their numbers, and I will put my sanctuary among them forever.'"
Matthew 26:28 "This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins."

NOTES:
Genesis 17:13, 19

Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version® NIV®, Copyright© 1973, 1978, 1984 by International Bible Society. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

Tuesday, November 17, 2009

Hebrews 13:5

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."

Keep your lives free from the love of money
Luke 12:15 Then he said to them, "Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; a man's life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions."
1 Timothy 3:3 ... not given to drunkenness, not violent but gentle, not quarrelsome, not a lover of money.
1 Timothy 6:10 For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs.
1 Timothy 6:17-19 Command those who are rich in their present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share. In this way they will lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life.

be content with what you have
Philippians 4:11-12 I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well-fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want.
1 Timothy 6:6-8 But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that.

Never will I leave you, never will I forsake you
Deuteronomy 31:6 "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 31:8 "The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged."
Joshua 1:5 "No one will be able to stand up against you all the days of your life. As I was with Moses, so I will be with you; I will never leave you nor forsake you."

NOTES:
Love of money: Luke 12:16-21; Philippians 4:10-13; 1 Timothy 6:6-10

Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version® NIV®, Copyright© 1973, 1978, 1984 by International Bible Society. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

Monday, November 16, 2009

Hebrews 12:1-2

Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of God.

let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us
1 Corinthians 9:24 Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize.
Galatians 5:7 You were running a good race. Who cut in on you and kept you from obeying the truth?
Hebrews 10:36 You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what he has promised.

Let us fix our eyes on Jesus
Psalm 25:15 My eyes are ever on the LORD, for only he will release my feet from the snare.

who for the joy set before him endured the cross
Philippians 2:8-9 And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself and became obedient to death--even death on a cross! Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, ...
Hebrews 1:3 The Son is the radiance of God's glory and the exact representation of his being, sustaining all things by his powerful word. After he had provided purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty in heaven.
Hebrews 2:9 But we see Jesus, who was made a little lower than the angels, now crowned with glory and honor because he suffered death, so that by the grace of God he might taste death for everyone.

scorning its shame
Hebrews 13:13 Let us, then, go to him outside the camp, bearing the disgrace he bore.
1 Peter 4:13 But rejoice that you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed.

and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God
Mark 16:19 After the Lord Jesus had spoken to them, he was taken up into heaven and he sat at the right hand of God.
Matthew 26:64 "Yes, it is as you say," Jesus replied. "But I say to all of you: In the future you will see the Son of Man sitting at the right hand of the Mighty One and coming on the clouds of heaven."
Acts 2:33 "Exalted to the right hand of God, he has received from the Father the promised Holy Spirit and has poured out what you now see and hear."

NOTES:
Run with perseverance: Acts 20:24; 1 Corinthians 9:24-26; Galatians 2:2; Philippians 2:16; 2 Timothy 4:7;
Fix our eyes on Jesus: Philippians 3:13-14
For the joy set before him: Isaiah 53:10-12
Endured the cross: Philippians 2:5-8
Scorning its shame: Hebrews 11:26; Matthew 5:10-12; Romans 8:18; 2 Corinthians 4:17; 1 Peter 5:1, 10

Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version® NIV®, Copyright© 1973, 1978, 1984 by International Bible Society. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

Sunday, November 15, 2009

Hebrews 4:15

For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are--yet was without sin.

a high priest
Hebrews 2:17 For this reason he had to be made like his brothers in every way, in order that he might become a merciful and faithful high priest in service to God, and that he might make atonement for the sins of the people.

who has been tempted in every way, just as we are
Hebrews 2:18 Because he himself suffered when he was tempted, he is able to help those who are being tempted.

yet was without sin
2 Corinthians 5:21 God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.

NOTES:
His temptations never led to sin
Matthew 4:1-11 Then Jesus was led by the Spirit into the desert to be tempted by the devil. After fasting forty days and forty nights, he was hungry. The tempter came to him and said, "If you are the Son of God, tell these stones to become bread." Jesus answered, "It is written: 'Man does not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.'" (Deuteronomy 8:3) Then the devil took him to the holy city and had him stand on the highest point of the temple. "If you are the Son of God," he said, "throw yourself down. For it is written: 'He will command his angels concerning you, and they will lift you up in their hands, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone.'" (Psalm 91:11-12) Jesus answered him, "It is also written: 'Do not put the Lord your God to the test.'" (Deuteronomy 6:16) Again, the devil took him to a very high mountain and showed him all the kingdoms of the world and their splendor. "All this I will give you," he said, "if you will bow down and worship me." Jesus said to him, "Away from me, Satan! For it is written: 'Worship the Lord your God, and serve him only.'" (Deuteronomy 6:13) Then the devil left him, and angels came and attended him.

(parentheses are mine)

Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version® NIV®, Copyright© 1973, 1978, 1984 by International Bible Society. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

Saturday, November 14, 2009

Hebrews 4:12

For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.

the word of God
Isaiah 40:8 The grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of our God stands forever.
Luke 11:28 He replied, "Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and obey it."
Acts 12:24 But the word of God continued to increase and spread.
1 Thessalonians 2:13 And we also thank God continually because, when you received the word of God, which you heard from us, you accepted it not as the word of men, but as it actually is, the word of God, which is at work in you who believe.
2 Timothy 2:9 ... for which I am suffering even to the point of being chained like a criminal. But God's word is not chained.
1 Peter 1:23 For you have been born again, not of perishable seed, but of imperishable, through the living and enduring word of God.
1 John 2:14 I write to you, fathers, because you have known him who is from the beginning. I write to you, young men, because you are strong, and the word of God lives in you, and you have overcome the evil one.
Revelation 1:2 ... who testifies to everything he saw--that is, the word of God and the testimony of Jesus Christ.

is living and active
Acts 7:38 He was in the assembly in the desert, with the angel who spoke to him on Mount Sinai, and with our fathers; and he received living words to pass on to us.
Isaiah 55:11 ... so is my word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it.
Jeremiah 23:29 "Is not my word like fire," declares the LORD, "and like a hammer that breaks a rock in pieces?"

Sharper than any double-edged sword
1 Corinthians 14:24-25 But if an unbeliever or someone who does not understand comes in while everybody is prophesying, he will be convinced by all that he is a sinner and will be judged by all, and the secrets of his heart will be laid bare. So he will fall down and worship God, exclaiming, "God is really among you!"

Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version® NIV®, Copyright© 1973, 1978, 1984 by International Bible Society. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

Friday, November 13, 2009

Philippians 2:3-4

Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others.

Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit
Philippians 1:17 The former preach Christ out of selfish ambition, not sincerely, supposing that they can stir up trouble for me while I am in chains.
Galatians 5:19-21 The acts of the sinful nature are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God.
Galatians 5:26 Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other.

but in humility consider others better than yourselves
Romans 12:10 Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves.
1 Peter 5:5 Young men, in the same way be submissive to those who are older. All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because, "God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble." (Proverbs 3:34)
Galatians 5:13 You, my brothers, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the sinful nature; rather, serve one another in love.
Ephesians 5:21 Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ.

but also to the interests of others
1 Corinthians 10:24 Nobody should seek his own good, but the good of others.
Romans 15:1-2 We who are strong ought to bear with the failings of the weak and not to please ourselves. Each of us should please his neighbor for his good, to build him up.

(parentheses are mine)

Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version® NIV®, Copyright© 1973, 1978, 1984 by International Bible Society. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

Thursday, November 12, 2009

Philippians 2:2

... then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and purpose.

make my joy complete
John 3:29 "The bride belongs to the bridegroom. The friend who attends the bridegroom waits and listens for him, and is full of joy when he hears the bridegroom's voice. That joy is mine, and it is now complete." (John the Baptist)

by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and purpose
Philippians 4:2 I plead with Euodia and I plead with Syntyche to agree with each other in the Lord.
Philippians 2:5 Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus: ...
Romans 12:16 Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited.
Romans 15:5-6 May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you a spirit of unity among yourselves as you follow Christ Jesus, so that with one heart and mouth you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.
2 Corinthians 13:11 Finally, brothers, good-by. Aim for perfection, listen to my appeal, be of one mind, live in peace. And the God of love and peace will be with you.

(parentheses are mine)

Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version® NIV®, Copyright© 1973, 1978, 1984 by International Bible Society. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

Wednesday, November 11, 2009

Philippians 2:1

If you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any fellowship with the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, ...

If you have any encouragement from being united with Christ
Romans 8:1 Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, ...
2 Corinthians 5:17 Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come.
Galatians 2:20 I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.

if any comfort from his love
John 3:16 "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."
Romans 5:8 But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.
Romans 8:38-39 For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
1 John 3:16 This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers.
1 John 4:9-10 This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him. This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins.
1 John 4:16 And so we know and rely on the love God has for us. God is love. Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in him.

if any fellowship with the Spirit
2 Corinthians 13:14 May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all.

if any tenderness and compassion
Philippians 1:8 God can testify how I long for all of you with the affection of Christ Jesus.
Colossians 3:12 Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.

Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version® NIV®, Copyright© 1973, 1978, 1984 by International Bible Society. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

Tuesday, November 10, 2009

Isaiah 33:6

He will be the sure foundation for your times, a rich store of salvation and wisdom and knowledge; the fear of the LORD is the key to this treasure.

a rich store of salvation and wisdom and knowledge
Isaiah 12:2 "Surely God is my salvation; I will trust and not be afraid. The LORD, the LORD, is my strength and my song; he has become my salvation."
Isaiah 26:1 In that day this song will be sung in the land of Judah: We have a strong city; God makes salvation its walls and ramparts.
Isaiah 51:6 "Lift up your eyes to the heavens, look at the earth beneath; the heavens will vanish like smoke, the earth will wear out like a garment and its inhabitants die like flies. But my salvation will last forever, my righteousness will never fail."
Isaiah 60:18 "No longer will violence be heard in your land, nor ruin or destruction within your borders, but you will call your walls Salvation and your gates Praise."

the fear of the LORD
Proverbs 1:7 The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and discipline.
Isaiah 9:6 For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
Isaiah 11:2-3 The Spirit of the LORD will rest on him--the Spirit of wisdom and understanding, the Spirit of counsel and power, the Spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the LORD--and he will delight in the fear of the LORD.
Matthew 6:33 "But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well."

is the key to this treasure
Genesis 39:3-4
When his master saw that the LORD was with him and that the LORD gave him success in everything he did, Joseph found favor in his eyes and became his attendant. Potiphar put him in charge of his household, and he entrusted to his care everything he owned.
Job 22:25 "... then the Almighty will be your gold, the choicest silver for you."

Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version® NIV®, Copyright© 1973, 1978, 1984 by International Bible Society. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

Monday, November 9, 2009

Proverbs 1:7

The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and discipline.

The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge
Exodus 20:20 Moses said to the people, "Do not be afraid. God has come to test you, so that the fear of God will be with you to keep you from sinning."
Job 23:15 "That is why I am terrified before him; when I think of all this, I fear him."
Psalm 112:1 Praise the LORD. Blessed is the man who fears the LORD, who finds great delight in his commands.
Proverbs 9:10 "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding."
Proverbs 15:33 The fear of the LORD teaches a man wisdom, and humility comes before honor.
Isaiah 33:6 He will be the sure foundation for your times, a rich store of salvation and wisdom and knowledge; the fear of the LORD is the key to this treasure.

but fools despise wisdom

Deuteronomy 4:6 Observe them carefully, for this will show your wisdom and understanding to the nations, who will hear about all these decrees and say, "Surely this great nation is a wise and understanding people."
Jeremiah 8:9 "'The wise will be put to shame; they will be dismayed and trapped. Since they have rejected the word of the LORD, what kind of wisdom do they have?'"

and discipline
Proverbs 9:7-9 "Whoever corrects a mocker invites insult; whoever rebukes a wicked man incurs abuse. Do not rebuke a mocker or he will hate you; rebuke a wise man and he will love you. Instruct a wise man and he will be wiser still; teach a righteous man and he will add to his learning."
Proverbs 12:1 Whoever loves discipline loves knowledge, but he who hates correction is stupid.
Proverbs 13:18 He who ignores discipline comes to poverty and shame, but whoever heeds correction is honored.
Proverbs 15:32 He who ignores discipline despises himself, but whoever heeds correction gains understanding.

NOTES:
Psalm 34:4-22; Isaiah 50:10; Isaiah 59:19; Proverbs 8:33-36

Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version® NIV®, Copyright© 1973, 1978, 1984 by International Bible Society. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

Sunday, November 8, 2009

Colossians 3:8-10

But now you must rid yourselves of all such things as these: anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language from your lips. Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self with its practices and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator.

now you must rid yourselves
Ephesians 4:22 You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; ...

of all such things as these: anger, rage, malice, slander
Ephesians 4:31 Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice.

and filthy language from your lips
Ephesians 4:29 Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.

Do not lie to each other
Ephesians 4:25 Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to his neighbor, for we are all members of one body.

since you have taken off your old self
Romans 6:6 For we know that our old self was crucified with him so that the body of sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves to sin--

and have put on the new self
Romans 6:4 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 13:14 Rather, clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ, and do not think about how to gratify the desires of the sinful nature.

which is being renewed in knowledge
Romans 12:2 Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is--his good, pleasing and perfect will.
2 Corinthians 4:16 Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day.
Ephesians 4:23-24 ... to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.

in the image of its Creator
Ephesians 2:10 For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.

NOTES:
2 Corinthians 5:17; Colossians 1:10; 2:2-3

Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version® NIV®, Copyright© 1973, 1978, 1984 by International Bible Society. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

Saturday, November 7, 2009

Ecclesiastes 3:10-13

I have seen the burden God has placed on men. He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the hearts of men; yet they cannot fathom what God has done from beginning to end. I know that there is nothing better for men than to be happy and do good while they live. That everyone may eat and drink and find satisfaction in all his toil--this is the gift of God.

I have seen the burden God has laid on men
Ecclesiastes 1:13 I devoted myself to study and to explore by wisdom all that is done under heaven. What a heavy burden God has laid on men!

He has made everything beautiful in its time
Ecclesiastes 3:1 There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven:

yet they cannot fathom what God has done
Job 11:7 "Can you fathom the mysteries of God? Can you probe the limits of the Almighty?

from beginning to end
Job 28:23-24 "God understands the way to it (wisdom) and he alone knows where it dwells, for he views the ends of the earth and sees everything under the heavens."
Romans 11:33 Oh, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable his judgments, and his paths beyond tracing out!

That everyone may eat and drink
Ecclesiastes 2:3 I tried cheering myself with wine, and embracing folly--my mind still guiding me with wisdom. I wanted to see what was worthwhile for men to do under heaven during the few days of their lives.

and find satisfaction in all his toil--this is the gift of God
Psalm 34:12 Whoever of you loves life and desires to see many good days, ...
Deuteronomy 12:7 There, in the presence of the LORD your God, you and your families shall eat and shall rejoice in everything you have put your hand to, because the LORD your God has blessed you.
Ecclesiastes 2:24-25 A man can do nothing better than to eat and drink and find satisfaction in his work. This too, I see, is from the hand of God, for without him, who can eat or find enjoyment?

(parentheses are mine)

Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version® NIV®, Copyright© 1973, 1978, 1984 by International Bible Society. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

Friday, November 6, 2009

Colossians 3:1-2

Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.

Since, then you have been raised with Christ
Romans 6:5 If we have been united with him like this in his death, we will certainly also be united with him in his resurrection.

where Christ is seated at the right hand of God
Mark 16:19 After the Lord Jesus had spoken to them, he was taken up into heaven and he sat at the right hand of God.

Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things
Matthew 6:33 "But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well."
Philippians 3:18-21 For, as I have often told you before and now say again even with tears, many live as enemies of the cross of Christ. Their destiny is destruction, their god is their stomach, and their glory is in their shame. Their mind is on earthly things. But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ, who, by the power that enables him to bring everything under his control, will transform our lowly bodies so that they will be like his glorious body.
Philippians 4:8 Finally, brothers, 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.

Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version® NIV®, Copyright© 1973, 1978, 1984 by International Bible Society. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

Thursday, November 5, 2009

Colossians 2:13-14

When you were dead in your sins and in the uncircumcision of your sinful nature, God made you alive with Christ. He forgave us all our sins, having canceled the written code, with its regulations, that was against us; he took it away, nailing it to the cross.

When you were dead in your sins
Ephesians 2:1 As for you, you were dead in your transgressions and sins.

God made you alive with Christ
Ephesians 2:4-5 But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions--it is by grace you have been saved.

He forgave us all our sins
Ephesians 4:32
Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.

canceled the written code, with its regulations

Ephesians 2:14-18 For he himself is our peace, who has made the two (Jew and Gentile) one and has destroyed the barrier, the dividing wall of hostility, by abolishing in his flesh the law with its commandments and regulations. His purpose was to create in himself one new man out of the two, thus making peace, and in this one body to reconcile both of them to God through the cross, by which he put to death their hostility. He came and preached peace to you who were far away and peace to those who were near. For through him we both have access to the Father by one Spirit.

nailing it to the cross
1 Peter 2:24 He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; by his wounds you have been healed.

(parentheses are mine)

Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version® NIV®, Copyright© 1973, 1978, 1984 by International Bible Society. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

Wednesday, November 4, 2009

Colossians 1:19-20

For God was pleased to have all his fullness dwell in him, and through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether things on earth or things in heaven, by making peace through his blood, shed on the cross.

God was pleased
Ephesians 1:5 ... he predestined us to be adopted as his sons through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and will--

to have all his fullness dwell in him
John 1:16 From the fullness of his grace we have all received one blessing after another.
Colossians 2:9 For in Christ all the fullness of the Deity lives in bodily form.

to reconcile to himself all things
Romans 5:10 For if, when we were God's enemies, we were reconciled to him through the death of his Son, how much more, having been reconciled, shall we be saved through his life!
Romans 8:19-22 The creation waits in eager expectation for the sons of God to be revealed. For the creation was subjected to frustration, not by its own choice, but by the will of the one who subjected it, in hope that the creation itself will be liberated from its bondage to decay and brought into the glorious freedom of the children of God. We know that the whole creation has been groaning as in the pains of childbirth right up to the present time.

whether things on earth or things in heaven
Ephesians 1:10 ... to be put into effect when the times will have reached their fulfillment--to bring all things in heaven and on earth together under one head, even Christ.

by making peace
Luke 2:14 "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests."

through his blood, shed on the cross
Ephesians 2:13 But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near through the blood of Christ.

NOTES:
Genesis 3:15, 17-19

Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version® NIV®, Copyright© 1973, 1978, 1984 by International Bible Society. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

Tuesday, November 3, 2009

Colossians 1:9-12

For this reason, since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you and asking God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all spiritual wisdom and understanding. And we pray this in order that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and may please him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God, being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience, and joyfully giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints in the kingdom of light.

since the day we heard about you
Colossians 1:4 ... because we have heard of your faith in Christ Jesus and of the love you have for all the saints--

asking God to fill you with the knowledge of his will
Ephesians 5:17 Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord's will is.

through all spiritual wisdom and understanding
Ephesians 1:17 I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better.

And we pray this in order that you may live a life worthy of the Lord
Ephesians 4:1 As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received.

and may please him in every way
2 Corinthians 5:9 So we make it our goal to please him, whether we are at home in the body or away from it.

growing in the knowledge of God
Colossians 1:6 ... the gospel that has come to you. All over the world this gospel is bearing fruit and growing, just as it has been doing since the day you heard it and understood God's grace in all its truth.

being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might
Philippians 4:13 I can do everything through him who gives me strength.

so that you may have great endurance and patience
Ephesians 4:2 Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.

and joyfully giving thanks to the Father
Ephesians 5:20 ... always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.

who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints
Acts 20:32 "Now I commit you to God and to the word of his grace, which can build you up and give you an inheritance among all those who are sanctified."

in the kingdom of light
Acts 26:17b-18 "I am sending you to them to open their eyes and turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan to God, so that they may receive forgiveness of sins and a place among those who are sanctified by faith in me."

NOTES:
Light symbolizes holiness - Matthew 5:14; 6:23; Acts 26:18; 1 John 1:5
Light symbolizes truth - Psalm 36:9; 119:105, 130; 2 Corinthians 4:6
Light symbolizes love - James 1:17; 1 John 2:9-10
Light symbolizes glory - Isaiah 60:1-3; 1 Timothy 6:16
Light symbolizes life - John 1:4
God is characterized by light - 1 John 1:5
Christ is characterized by light - John 8:12
The Christian is characterized by light - Ephesians 5:8
The kingdom of light as the opposite of the dominion of darkness - Colossians 1:13

Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version® NIV®, Copyright© 1973, 1978, 1984 by International Bible Society. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

Monday, November 2, 2009

Philippians 4:12-13

I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well-fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through him who gives me strength.

whether well-fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want
1 Corinthians 4:11 To this very hour we go hungry and thirsty, we are in rags, we are brutally treated, we are homeless.

I can do everything through him who gives me strength
John 15:5 "I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing."
2 Corinthians 12:9-10 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.
Ephesians 3:16-19 I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge--that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.
Colossians 1:9-12 For this reason, since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you and asking God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all spiritual wisdom and understanding. And we pray this in order that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and may please him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God, being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience, and joyfully giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints in the kingdom of light.
2 Timothy 4:17 But the Lord stood at my side and gave me strength, so that through me the message might be fully proclaimed and all the Gentiles might hear it. And I was delivered from the lion's mouth.

NOTES:
1 Corinthians 4:11-13; 2 Corinthians 11:9; 1 Timothy 1:12

Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version® NIV®, Copyright© 1973, 1978, 1984 by International Bible Society. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

Sunday, November 1, 2009

John 17:3

"Now this is eternal life: that they may know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent."

that they may know you
Philippians 3:8 What is more, I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them rubbish, that I may gain Christ ...

Jesus Christ, whom you have sent
John 17:8 "For I gave them the words you gave me and they accepted them. They knew with certainty that I came from you, and they believed that you sent me."
John 17:18 "As you sent me into the world, I have sent them into the world."
John 17:20-26 "My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me. I have given them the glory that you gave me, that they may be one as we are one: I in them and you in me. May they be brought to complete unity to let the world know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me. Father, I want those you have given me to be with me where I am, and to see my glory, the glory you have given me because you loved me before the creation of the world. Righteous Father, though the world does not know you, I know you, and they know that you have sent me. I have made you known to them, and will continue to make you known in order that the love you have for me may be in them and that I myself may be in them."
John 3:17 "For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him."

Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version® NIV®, Copyright© 1973, 1978, 1984 by International Bible Society. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.