SEEK Zephaniah 2:3

Seek the LORD, all you humble of the land, you who do what he commands. Seek righteousness, seek humility; perhaps you will be sheltered on the day of the LORD's anger.

Seek the LORD 
Amos 5:4-6  This is what the LORD says to Israel: "Seek me and live; do not seek Bethel, do not go to Gilgal, do not journey to Beersheba. For Gilgal will surely go into exile, and Bethel will be reduced to nothing. Seek the LORD and live, or he will sweep through the tribes of Joseph like a fire; it will  devour them and Bethel will have no one to quench it."

Seek righteousness 
Isaiah 1:17  Learn to do right; seek justice. Defend the oppressed. Take up the cause of the fatherless; plead the case of the widow.

seek humility 
Psalm 45:4  In your majesty ride forth victoriously in the cause of truth, humility and justice; let your right hand achieve awesome deeds.

perhaps you will be sheltered on the day of the LORD's anger 
Psalm 57:1  Have mercy on me, my God, have mercy on me, for in you I take refuge. I will take refuge in the shadow of your wings until the disaster has passed.

Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version® NIV®, Copyright© 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. 
Limited to 15 verses per post.

GRACE Romans 11:5-6

So too, at the present time there is a remnant chosen by grace. And if by grace, then it cannot be based on works; if it were, grace would no longer be grace.

So too, at the present time there is a remnant 
Romans 9:27-28  Isaiah cries out concerning Israel: "Though the number of the Israelites be like the sand by the sea, only a remnant will be saved. For the Lord will carry out his sentence on earth with speed and finality." (Isaiah 10:22-23)

chosen by grace 
Romans 3:21-24  But now apart from the law the righteousness of God has been made known to which the Law and the Prophets testify. This righteousness is given through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe. There is no difference between Jew and Gentile, for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and all are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.

And if by grace, then it cannot be based on works 
Romans 4:4  Now to the one who works, wages are not credited as a gift but as an obligation.
Romans 9:30-33  What then shall we say? That the Gentiles, who did not pursue righteousness, have obtained it, a righteousness that is by faith; but the people of Israel, who pursued the law as the way of righteousness, have not attained their goal. Why not? Because they pursued it not by faith but as if it were by works. They stumbled over the stumbling stone. As it is written: "See, I lay in Zion a stone that causes people to stumble and a rock that makes them fall, and the one who believes in him will never be put to shame." (Isaiah 8:14; 28:16)

(parentheses are mine)

Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version® NIV®, Copyright© 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. 
Limited to 15 verses per post.

SEEK Amos 5:4

This is what the LORD says to Israel: "Seek me and live; ..."

Deuteronomy 4:29  But if from there you seek the LORD your God, you will find him if you seek him with all your heart and with all your soul.
Deuteronomy 32:45-47  When Moses finished reciting all these words to all Israel, he said to them, "Take to heart all the words I have solemnly declared to you this day, so that you may command your children to obey carefully all the words of this law. 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."
Isaiah 55:3  "Give ear and come to me; listen that you may live. I will make an everlasting covenant with you, my faithful love promised to David."
Jeremiah 29:13  "You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart."
Ezekiel 18:9  "He follows my decrees and faithfully keeps my laws. That man is righteous; he will surely live, declares the Sovereign LORD."

Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version® NIV®, Copyright© 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. 
Limited to 15 verses per post.

GRACE Romans 6:14-15

For sin shall no longer be your master, because you are not under the law, but under grace. What then? Shall we sin because we are not under the law but under grace? My no means!

For sin shall no longer be your master 
Romans 6:16  Don't you know that when you offer yourselves to someone as obedient slaves, you are slaves of the one you obey--whether you are slaves to sin, which leads to death, or to obedience which leads to righteousness?

because you are not under the law 
Romans 2:12  For all who sin apart from the law will also perish apart from the law, and all who sin under the law will be judged by the law. 

but under grace 
Romans 3:24  ... and all are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.

Shall we sin because we are not under the law but under grace 
Romans 6:1-2  What shall we say, then? Shall we go on sinning so that grace may increase? By no means! We are those who have died to sin; how can we live in it any longer? 

Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version® NIV®, Copyright© 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. 
Limited to 15 verses per post.

SEEK Hosea 10:12

Sow righteousness for yourselves, reap the fruit of unfailing love, and break up your unplowed ground; for it is time to seek the LORD, until he comes and showers his righteousness on you.

Sow righteousness for yourselves 
Ecclesiastes 11:1-2  Ship your grain across the sea; after many days you may receive a return. Invest in seven ventures, yes, in eight; you do not know what disaster may come upon the land.
Proverbs 11:18  A wicked person earns deceptive wages, but the one who sows righteousness reaps a sure reward.
James 3:18  Peacemakers who sow peace reap a harvest of righteousness.

and break up your unplowed ground 
Jeremiah 4:3  This is what the LORD says to the people of Judah and to Jerusalem: "Break up your unplowed ground and do not sow among thorns."

for it is time to seek the LORD 
Isaiah 19:22  The LORD will strike Egypt with a plague; he will strike them and heal them. They will turn to the LORD, and he will respond to their pleas and heal them.
Hosea 12:6  But you must return to your God; maintain love and justice, and wait for your God always.

until he comes and showers his righteousness on you 
Isaiah 45:8-9a  This is what the LORD says: "In the time of my favor I will answer you, and in the day of salvation I will help you; I will keep you and will make you to be a covenant for the people, to restore the land and to reassign its desolate inheritances, to say to the captives, 'Come out,' and to those in darkness, 'Be free!' "

Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version® NIV®, Copyright© 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. 
Limited to 15 verses per post.

GRACE Romans 6:1-2 Part 2 of 2

What shall we say, then? Shall we go on sinning so that grace may increase? By no means! We are those who have died to sin; how can we live in it any longer?

 We are those who have died to sin 
Romans 6:6-7  For we know that our old self was crucified with him so that the body ruled by sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves to sin--because anyone who has died has been set free from sin.
Romans 6:10-11  The death he died, he died to sin once for all; but the life he lives, he lives to God. In the same way, count yourselves dead to sin but alive to God in Christ Jesus.
Romans 6:18  You have been set free from sin and have become slaves to righteousness.
Romans 8:13  For if you live according to the flesh, you will die; but if by the Spirit you put to death the misdeeds of the body, you will live.
Colossians 3:3  For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God.
Colossians 3:5  Put to death, therefore, whatever belongs to your earthly nature: sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires and greed, which is idolatry.
1 Peter 2:24  "He himself bore our sins" in his body on the cross, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; "by his wounds you have been healed." (Isaiah 53:4-5)

(parentheses are mine)

Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version® NIV®, Copyright© 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. 
Limited to 15 verses per post.

SEEK Jeremiah 29:13

"You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart."

You will seek me 
Matthew 7:7-8  "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."

and find me when you seek me with all your heart 
Deuteronomy 4:29  But if from there you seek the LORD your God, you will find him if you seek him with all your heart and with all your soul.
2 Chronicles 6:36-39  "When they sin against you--for there is no one who does not sin--and you become angry with them and give them over to the enemy, who takes them captive to a land far away or near; and if they have a change of heart in the land where they are held captive, and repent and plead with you in the land of their captivity and say, 'We have sinned, we have done wrong and acted wickedly'; and if they turn back to you with all their heart and soul in the land of their captivity where they were taken, and pray toward the land you gave their ancestors, toward the city you have chosen and toward the temple I have built for your Name; then from heaven, your dwelling place, hear their prayer and their pleas, and uphold their cause. And forgive your people, who have sinned against you."

Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version® NIV®, Copyright© 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. 
Limited to 15 verses per post.

GRACE Romans 6:1-2 Part 1 of 2

What shall we say, then? Shall we go on sinning so that grace may increase? By no means! We are those who have died to sin; how can we live in it any longer? 

What shall we say, then 
Romans 8:31  What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?

Shall we go on sinning so that grace may increase 
Romans 6:15  What then? Shall we sin because we are not under the law but under grace? By no means!
Romans 3:5-8  But if our unrighteousness brings out God's righteousness more clearly, what shall we say? That God is unjust in bringing his wrath on us? (I am using a human argument.) Certainly not! If that were so, how could God judge the world? Someone might argue, "If my falsehood enhances God's truthfulness and so increases his glory, why am I still condemned as a sinner?" Why not say--as some slanderously claim that we say--"Let us do evil that good may result"? Their condemnation is just!

Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version® NIV®, Copyright© 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. 
Limited to 15 verses per post.

SEEK Isaiah 65:1 Part 2 of 2

"I revealed myself to those who did not ask for me; I was found by those who did not seek me. To a nation that did not call on my name, I said, 'Here am I, here am I.' "  

To a nation 
Romans 9:30-33  What then shall we say? That the Gentiles, who did not pursue righteousness, have obtained it, a righteousness that is by faith; but the people of Israel who pursued the law as a way of righteousness, have not attained their goal. Why not? Because they pursued it not by faith but as if it were by works. They stumbled over the stumbling stone. As it is written: "See, I lay in Zion a stone that causes people to stumble and a rock that makes them fall and the one who believes in him will never be put to shame." (Isaiah 8:14; 28:16)
Ephesians 2:12  ... remember that at that time you were separate from Christ, excluded from citizenship in Israel and foreigners to the covenants of the promise, without hope and without God in the world.

that did not call on my name 
Psalm 14:4  Do all these evildoers know nothing? They devour my people as though eating bread; they never call on the LORD.
Isaiah 43:6b-7  "Bring my sons from afar and my daughters from the ends of the earth--everyone who is called by my name, whom I created for my glory, whom I formed and made."

(parentheses are mine)

Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version® NIV®, Copyright© 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. 
Limited to 15 verses per post.

GRACE Romans 5:20-21

The law was brought in so that the trespass might increase. But where sin increased, grace increased all the more, so that, just as sin reigned in death, so also grace might reign through righteousness to bring eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. 

The law was brought in so that the trespass might increase 
Romans 3:20  Therefore no one will be declared righteous in God's sight by the works of the law; rather, through the law we become conscious of our sin.
Romans 7:7-8  What shall we say, then? Is the law sinful? Certainly not! Nevertheless, I would not have known what sin was had it not been for the law. For I would not have known what coveting really was if the law had not said, "You shall not covet." But sin, seizing the opportunity afforded by the commandment, produced in me every kind of coveting. For apart from the law, sin was dead.
Galatians 3:19  Why, then, was the law given at all? It was added because of transgressions until the Seed to whom the promise referred had come. The law was given through angels and entrusted to a mediator.

But where sin increased, grace increased all the more 
Romans 6:1  What shall we say, then? Shall we go on sinning so that grace may increase?
1 Timothy 1:13-14  Even though I was once a blasphemer and a persecutor and a violent man, I was shown mercy because I acted in ignorance and unbelief. The grace of our Lord was poured out on me abundantly, along with the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus.

so that, just as sin reigned in death 
Romans 5:12-14  Therefore, just as sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin, and in this way death came to all people, because all sinned--To be sure, sin was in the world before the law was given, but sin is not charged against anyone's account where there is no law. Nevertheless, death reigned from the time of Adam to the time of Moses, even over those who did not sin by breaking a command, as did Adam, who is a pattern of the one to come.
Romans 6:16  Don't you know that when you offer yourselves to someone as obedient slaves, you are slaves of the one you obey--whether you are slaves to sin, which leads to death, or to obedience, which leads to righteousness?

so also grace might reign 
Romans 3:24  ... and all are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.

through righteousness to bring eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord 
Matthew 25:46  "Then they will go away to eternal punishment, but the righteous to eternal life."

Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version® NIV®, Copyright© 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. 
Limited to 15 verses per post.

SEEK Isaiah 65:1 Part 1 of 2

"I revealed myself to those who did not ask for me; I was found by those who did not seek me. To a nation that did not call on my name, I said, 'Here am I, here am I.' "

I was found by those who did not seek me 
Hosea 1:10  "Yet the Israelites will be like the sand on the seashore, which cannot be measured or counted. In the place where it was said to them, 'You are not my people,' they will be called 'children of the living God.' "
Romans 9:22-26  What if God, although choosing to show his wrath and make his power known, bore with great patience the objects of his wrath--prepared for destruction? What if he did this to make the riches of his glory known to the objects of his mercy, whom he prepared in advance for glory--even us, whom he also called, not only from the Jews but also from the Gentiles? As he says in Hosea: "I will call them 'my people' who are not my people; and I will call her 'my loved one' who is not my loved one,"... (Hosea 2:23)
Romans 10:20-21  And Isaiah boldly says, "I was found by those who did not seek me; I revealed myself to those who did not ask for me." (Isaiah 65:1) But concerning Israel he says, "All day long I have held out my hands to a disobedient and obstinate people." (Isaiah 65:2)

(parentheses are mine)

Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version® NIV®, Copyright© 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. 
Limited to 15 verses per post.

GRACE Romans 5:15-17

But the gift is not like the trespass. For if the many died by the trespass of the one man (Adam), how much more did God's grace and the gift that came by the grace of the one man, Jesus Christ, overflow to the many! Nor can the gift of God be compared with the result of one man's sin: The judgment followed one sin and brought condemnation, but the gift followed many trespasses and brought justification. For if, by the trespass of the one man, death reigned through that one man, how much more will those who receive God's abundant provision of grace and of the gift of righteousness reign in life through the one man, Jesus Christ! 

For if the many died by the trespass of the one man 
Romans 5:12  Therefore, just as sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin, and in this way death came to all people, because all sinned--...
Romans 5:18-19  Consequently, just as one trespass resulted in condemnation for all people, so also one righteous act resulted in justification and life for all people. For just as through the disobedience of the one man the many were made sinners, so also through the obedience of the one man the many will be made righteous.

how much more did God's grace and the gift that came by the grace of the one man, Jesus Christ, overflow to the many 
Acts 15:11  Not only is this so, but we also boast in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation.

For if, by the trespass of the one man, death reigned through that one man 
Romans 5:12  Therefore, just as sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin, and in this way death came to all people, because all sinned--...

how much more will those who receive God's abundant provision of grace and of the gift of righteousness reign in life through the one man, Jesus Christ 
John 10:10  "The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full."

(parentheses are mine)

Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version® NIV®, Copyright© 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. 
Limited to 15 verses per post.

SEEK Isaiah 55:6

Seek the LORD while he may be found; call on him while he is near.

Seek the LORD 
Deuteronomy 4:29  But if from there you seek the LORD your God, you will find him if you seek him with all your heart and with all your soul.
2 Chronicles 15:2  He went out to meet Asa and said to him, "Listen to me Asa and all Judah and Benjamin. The LORD is with you when you are with him. If you seek him, he will be found by you, but if you forsake him, he will forsake you."
Isaiah 9:13  But the people have not returned to him who struck them, nor have they sought the LORD Almighty.

while he may be found 
Psalm 32:6  Therefore let all the faithful pray to you while you may be found; surely the rising of the mighty waters will not reach them.
Isaiah 49:8  This is what the LORD says: "In the time of my favor I will answer you, and in the day of salvation I will help you; I will keep you and will make you to be a covenant for the people, to restore the land and to reassign its desolate inheritances, ..."
Acts 17:27  "God did this so that they would seek him and perhaps reach out for him and find him, though he is not far from any one of us."
2 Corinthians 6:1-2  As God's co-workers we urge you not to receive God's grace in vain. For he says, "In the time of my favor I heard you, and in the day of salvation I helped you." (Isaiah 49:8) I tell you, now is the time of God's favor, now is the day of salvation.

call on him while he is near 
Psalm 50:15  "... and call on me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you will honor me."
Isaiah 65:24  "Before they call I will answer; while they are still speaking I will hear." 
Jeremiah 29:12  "Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you."
Jeremiah 33:3  " 'Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know.' "

(parentheses are mine)

Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version® NIV®, Copyright© 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. 
Limited to 15 verses per post.

GRACE Romans 5:1-2

Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. And we boast in the hope of the glory of God.

Therefore, since we have bee justified 
Romans 4:25  He was delivered over to death for our sins and was raised to life for our justification.

through faith 
Romans 3:28  For we maintain that a person is justified by faith apart from the works of the law.

we have peace with God 
Luke 2:14  "Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests."

through our Lord Jesus Christ 
Romans 5:10  For if, while 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!

through whom we have gained access by faithb
Ephesians 2:18  For through him we both have access to the Father by one Spirit.
Ephesians 3:12  In him and through faith in him we may approach God with freedom and confidence.

into this grace in which we now stand 
1 Corinthians 15:1  Now, brothers and sisters, I want to remind you of the gospel I preached to you, which you received and on which you have taken your stand.

And we boast in the hope of the glory of God 
Hebrews 3:6  But Christ is faithful as the Son over God's house. And we are his house, if indeed we hold firmly to our confidence and the hope in which we glory.

Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version® NIV®, Copyright© 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. 
Limited to 15 verses per post.

SEEK Proverbs 20:18

Plans are established by seeking advice; so if you wage war, obtain guidance.

Proverbs 11:14  For lack of guidance a nation falls, but victory is won through many advisers.
Proverbs 24:5-6  The wise prevail through great power, and those who have knowledge muster their strength. Surely you need guidance to wage war, and victory is won through many advisers.
Proverbs 15:22  Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.
Luke 14:31-32  "Or suppose a king is about to go to war against another king. Won't he first sit down and consider whether he is able with ten thousand men to oppose the one coming against him with twenty thousand? If he is not able, he will send a delegation while the other is still a long way off and will ask for terms of peace.

Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version® NIV®, Copyright© 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. 
Limited to 15 verses per post.

GRACE Romans 4:16

Therefore, the promise comes by faith, so that it may be by grace and may be guaranteed to all Abraham's offspring--not only to those who are of the law but also to those who have the faith of Abraham. He is the father of us all. 

Therefore, the promise comes by faith, so that it may be by grace 
Romans 3:24  ... and all are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.

and may be guaranteed to all Abraham's offspring 
Romans 15:8-9a  For I tell you that Christ has become a servant of the Jews on behalf of God's truth, so that the promises made to the patriarchs might be confirmed and, moreover, that the Gentiles might glorify God for his mercy.

He is the father of us all 
Romans 4:11-12  And he received circumcision as a sign, a seal of righteousness that he had by faith while he was still uncircumcised. So then, he is the father of all who believe but have not been circumcised, in order that righteousness might be credited to them. and he is then also the father of the circumcised who not only are circumcised but who also follow in the footsteps of the faith that our father Abraham had before he was circumcised.
Luke 3:8-9  "Produce fruit in keeping with repentance. And do not begin to say to yourselves, 'We have Abraham as our father.' For I tell you that out of these stones God can raise up children for Abraham."
Galatians 3:16  The promises were spoken to Abraham and to his seed. Scripture does not say "and to seeds," meaning many people, but "and to your seed," meaning one person, who is Christ.

Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version® NIV®, Copyright© 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. 
Limited to 15 verses per post.

SEEK Proverbs 18:15

The heart of the discerning acquires knowledge, for the ears of the wise seek it out.

Proverbs 15:14  The discerning heart seeks knowledge, but the mouth of a fool feeds on folly.

Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version® NIV®, Copyright© 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. 
Limited to 15 verses per post.

GRACE Romans 3:24 Part 2 of 2

 ... and all are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus. 

by his grace 
Titus 2:11  For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people.
Hebrews 4:16  Let us then approach God's throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.

through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus 
Psalm 130:7-8  Israel, put your hope in the LORD, for with the LORD is unfailing love and with him is full redemption. He himself will redeem Israel from all their sins.
1 Corinthians 1:30  It is because of him that you are in Christ Jesus, who has become for us wisdom from God--that is, our righteousness, holiness and redemption.
Galatians 4:4-5  But when the set time had fully come, God sent his son, born of a woman, born under the law, to redeem those under the law, that we might receive adoption to sonship.
Ephesians 1:7-8a  In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God's grace that he lavished on us.
Ephesians 1:13-14  And you also were included in Christ when you heard the message of truth, the gospel of your salvation. When you believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God's possession--to the praise of his glory.
Colossians 1:13-14  For he has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.
Hebrews 9:12  He did not enter by means of the blood of goats and calves; but he entered the Most Holy Place once for all by his own blood, thus obtaining eternal redemption.

Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version® NIV®, Copyright© 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. 
 Limited to 15 verses per post.

SEEK Proverbs 11:27

Whoever seeks good finds favor, but evil comes to one who searches for it. 

Whoever seeks good finds favor 
Proverbs 11:25  A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.
Matthew 7:12  "So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets."

but evil comes to one who searches for it 
Psalm 7:14 -16  Whoever is pregnant with evil conceives trouble and gives birth to disillusionment. Whoever digs a hole and scoops it out falls into the pit they have made. The trouble they cause recoils on them; their violence comes down on their own heads.
Proverbs 11:8  The righteous person is rescued from trouble, and it falls on the wicked instead.
Proverbs 1:18  These men lie in wait for their own blood; they ambush only themselves.

Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version® NIV®, Copyright© 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. 
Limited to 15 verses per post.

GRACE Romans 3:24 Part 1 of 2

... and all are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus. 

and all are justified freely 
Romans 4:25  He was delivered over to death for our sins and was raised to life for our justification.

by his grace 
John 1 :14-17  The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth. (John testified concerning him. He cried out, saying, "This is the one I spoke about when I said, 'He who comes after me has surpassed me because he was before me.' ") Out of his fullness we have all received grace in place of grace already given. For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ.
Romans 4:16  Therefore, the promise comes by faith, so that it may be by grace and may be guaranteed to all Abraham's offspring--not only to those who are of the law but also to those who have the faith of Abraham. He is the father of us all.
Romans 5:20-21  The law was brought in so that the trespass might increase. But where sin increased, grace increased all the more, so that, just as sin reigned in death, so also grace might reign through righteousness to bring eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.
Romans 6:14  For sin shall no longer be your master, because you are not under the law, but under grace.
Romans 11:5  So too, at the present time there is a remnant chosen by grace.
2 Corinthians 12:9  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.
Ephesians 2:8-9  For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith--and this is not from yourselves, it is a gift of God--not by works, so that no one can boast.
Ephesians 4:7  But to each one of us grace has been given as Christ apportioned it.

Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version® NIV®, Copyright© 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. 
Limited to 15 verses per post.

SEEK Proverbs 8:17 Part 2 of 2

"I love those who love me, and those who seek me find me."

and those who seek me find me 
Proverbs 3:13-18  Blessed are those who find wisdom, those who gain understanding, for she is more profitable than silver and yields better returns than gold. She is more precious than rubies; nothing you desire can compare with her. Long life is in her right hand; in her left hand are riches and honor. Her ways are pleasant ways, and all her paths are peace. She is a tree of life to those who take hold of her; those who hold her fast will be blessed.
Matthew 7:7-11  "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. Which of you, if your son asks for bread, will give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake? If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him!"

Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version® NIV®, Copyright© 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. 
Limited to 15 verses per post.

GRACE Romans 1:5

Through him we received grace and apostleship to call all the Gentiles to the obedience that comes from faith for his name's sake. 

Through him we received grace and apostleship 
1 Timothy 1:14  The grace of our Lord was poured out on me abundantly, along with the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus.

to call all the Gentiles to the obedience 
Acts 9:15-16  But the Lord said to Ananias, "Go! This man is my chosen instrument to proclaim my name to the Gentiles and their kings and to the people of Israel. I will show him how much he must suffer for my name."

that comes from faith for his name's sake 
Acts 6:7  So the word of God spread. The number of disciples in Jerusalem increased rapidly, and a large number of priests became obedient to the faith.
Romans 16:25-27  Now to him who is able to establish you in accordance with my gospel, the message I proclaim about Jesus Christ, in keeping with 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 the Gentiles might come to the obedience that comes from faith--to the only wise God be glory forever through Jesus Christ! Amen.

Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version® NIV®, Copyright© 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. 
Limited to 15 verses per post.

SEEK Proverbs 8:17 Part 1 of 2

"I love those who love me, and those who seek me find me."

I love those who love me 
1 Samuel 2:30  "Therefore the LORD, the God of Israel, declares: 'I promised that members of your family would minister before me forever.' But now the LORD declares: 'Far be it from me! Those who honor me I will honor, but those who despise me will be disdained.' "
John 14:21-24  "Whoever has my commands and keeps them is the one who loves me. The one who loves me will be loved by my Father, and I too will love them and show myself to them." Then Judas (not Judas Iscariot) said, "But, Lord, why do you intend to show yourself to us and not to the world?" Jesus replied, "Anyone who loves me will obey my teaching. My Father will love them, and we will come to them and make our home with them. Anyone who does not love me will not obey my teaching. These words you hear are not my own; they belong to the Father who sent me."

and those who seek me find me 
1 Chronicles 16:11  Look to the LORD and his strength; seek his face always.
Proverbs 1:28-29  "Then they will call to me but I will not answer; they will look for me but will not find me, since they hated knowledge and did not choose to fear the LORD."

Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version® NIV®, Copyright© 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. 
Limited to 15 verses per post.

GRACE 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."

Now I commit you to God and to the word of his grace 
Acts 14:23  Paul and Barnabas appointed elders for them in each church and with prayer and fasting, committed them to the Lord, in whom they had put their trust.

which can build you up and give you an inheritance 
Ephesians 1:13-14  And you also were included in Christ when you heard the message of truth, the gospel of your salvation. When you believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God's possession--to the praise of his glory. 
Matthew 25:34  "Then the King will say to those on his right, 'Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world.' "
Colossians 3:23-24  Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.
Hebrews 9:15  For this reason Christ is the mediator of a new covenant, that those who are called may receive the promised eternal inheritance--now that he has died as a ransom to set them free from the sins committed under the first covenant.
1 Peter 1:3-5  Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade. This inheritance is kept in heaven for you, who through faith are shielded by God's power until the coming of the salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time.

among all those who are sanctified 
Acts 26:16-18  " 'Now get up and stand on your feet. I have appeared to you to appoint you as a servant and as a witness of what you have seen and will see of me. I will rescue you from your own people and from the Gentiles. 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.' "

Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version® NIV®, Copyright© 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. 
Limited to 15 verses per post.

SEEK Psalm 119:176

I have strayed like a lost sheep. Seek your servant, for I have not forgotten your commands. 

I have strayed like a lost sheep 
Psalm 119:10  I seek you with all my heart; do not let me stray from your commands.
Psalm 95:10  "For forty years I was angry with that generation; I said, 'They are a people whose hearts go astray, and they have not known my ways.' "
Jeremiah 50:17  "Israel is a scattered flock that lions have chased away. The first to devour them was the king of Assyria; the last to crush their bones was Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon."
Ezekiel 34:11-12  " 'For this is what the Sovereign LORD says: I myself will search for my sheep and look after them. As a shepherd looks after his scattered flock when he is with them. so will I look after my sheep. I will rescue them from all the places where they were scattered on a day of clouds and darkness.' "
Luke 15:3-7  Then Jesus told them this parable: "Suppose one of you has a hundred sheep and loses one of them. Doesn't he leave the ninety-nine in the open country and go after the lost sheep until he finds it? And when he finds it, he joyfully puts it on his shoulders and goes home. Then he calls his friends and neighbors together and says, 'Rejoice with me; I have found my lost sheep.' I tell you that in the same way there will be more rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who do not need to repent."

Seek your servant, for I have not forgotten your commands 
Deuteronomy 32:18  You deserted the Rock, who fathered you; you forgot the God who gave you birth.
Psalm 119:153  Look on my suffering and deliver me, for I have not forgotten your law.
Proverbs 3:1-2  My son, do not forget my teaching, but keep my commands in your heart, for they will prolong your life many years and bring you peace and prosperity.

Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version® NIV®, Copyright© 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. 
Limited to 15 verses per post.

GRACE Acts 20:24

 "However, I consider my life worth nothing to me; my only aim is to finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me--the task of testifying to the good news of God's grace."

However, I consider my life worth nothing to me 
Acts 21:13  Then Paul answered, "Why are you weeping and breaking my heart? I am ready not only to be bound, but also to die in Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus."

my only aim is to finish the race 
2 Timothy 4:7  I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.

and complete the task 
2 Corinthians 4:1  Therefore, since through God's mercy we have this ministry, we do not lose heart.

the Lord has given me 
Galatians 1:1  Paul, an apostle--sent not from men nor by a man, but by Jesus Christ and God the Father, who raised him from the dead--...
Titus 1:1-4  Paul, a servant of God and an apostle of Jesus Christ to further the faith of God's elect and their knowledge of the truth that leads to godliness--in the hope of eternal life, which God, who does not lie, promised before the beginning of time, and which now at his appointed season he has brought to light through the preaching entrusted to me by the command of God our Savior, To Titus, my true son in our common faith: Grace and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Savior.

the task of testifying to the good news of God's grace 
Acts 11:23  When he arrived and saw what the grace of God had done, he was glad and encouraged them all to remain true to the Lord with all their hearts.

Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version® NIV®, Copyright© 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. 
 Limited to 15 verses per post.

SEEK Psalm 119:9-10

How can a young person stay on the path of purity? By living according to your word. I seek you with all my heart; do not let me stray from your commands.

How can a young person stay on the path of purity? 
Psalm 39:1  I said, "I will watch my ways and keep my tongue from sin; I will put a muzzle on my mouth while in the presence of the wicked."
Psalm 119:59  I have considered my ways and have turned my steps to your statutes.
Proverbs 20:11  Even small children are known by their actions, so is their conduct really pure and upright?

By living according to your word 
Psalm 119:65  Do good to your servant according to your word, LORD.
Psalm 119:169  May my cry come before you, LORD; give me understanding according to your word.

I seek you with all my heart 
Psalm 9:1  I will give thanks to you, LORD, with all my heart; I will tell of all your wonderful deeds.
Psalm 86:12  I will praise you, Lord my God, with all my heart; I will glorify your name forever.
Psalm 111:1  Praise the LORD. I will extol the LORD with all my heart in the council of the upright and in the assembly.
Psalm 119:2  Blessed are those who keep his statutes and seek him with all their heart--...
Psalm 119:45  I will walk about in freedom, for I have sought out your precepts.
Psalm 138:1  I will praise you, LORD, with all my heart; before the "gods" I will sing your praise.

do not let me stray from your commands 
Psalm 119:21  You rebuke the arrogant, who are accursed, those who stray from your commands.
Psalm 119:118  You reject all who stray from your decrees, for their delusions come to nothing.

Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version® NIV®, Copyright© 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. 
Limited to 15 verses per post.

GRACE Acts 18:27-28

When Apollos wanted to go to Achaia, the brothers and sisters encouraged him and wrote to the disciples there to welcome him. When he arrived, he was a great help to those who by grace had believed. For he vigorously refuted his Jewish opponents in public debate, proving from the Scriptures that Jesus was the Messiah.

When Apollos wanted to go to Achaia 
Acts 18:12  While Gallio was proconsul of Achaia, the Jews of Corinth made a united attack on Paul and brought him to the place of judgment.

the brothers and sisters encouraged him 
Acts 18:18  Paul stayed on in Corinth for some time. Then he left the brothers and sisters and sailed for Syria, accompanied by Priscilla and Aquila. Before he sailed, he had his hair cut off at Cenchreae because of a vow he had taken.
Acts 1:15-17  In those days Peter stood up among the believers (a group numbering about a hundred and twenty) and said, "Brothers and sisters, the Scripture had to be fulfilled in which the Holy Spirit spoke long ago through David concerning Judas, who served as guide for those who arrested Jesus. He was one of our number and shared in our ministry."

For he vigorously refuted his Jewish opponents in public debate, proving from the Scriptures 
Acts 8:35  Then Philip began with that very passage of Scripture and told him the good news about Jesus.
Acts 17:2-3  As was his custom, Paul went into the synagogue, and on three Sabbath days, he reasoned with them from the Scriptures, explaining and proving that the Messiah had to suffer and rise from the dead. "This Jesus I am proclaiming to you is the Messiah," he said.

that Jesus was the Messiah 
Acts 18:5  When Silas and Timothy came from Macedonia, Paul devoted himself exclusively to preaching, testifying to the Jews that Jesus was the Messiah.
Acts 9:22  Yet Saul grew more and more powerful and baffled the Jews living in Damascus by proving that Jesus is the Messiah.

Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version® NIV®, Copyright© 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. 
Limited to 15 verses per post.

SEEK Psalm 119:2

Blessed are those who keep his statutes and seek him with all their heart--...

Blessed 
Psalm 112:1  Praise the LORD. Blessed are those who fear the LORD, who find great delight in his commands.
Isaiah 56:1-2  This is what the LORD says: "Maintain justice and do what is right, for my salvation is close at hand and my righteousness will soon be revealed. Blessed is the one who does this--the person who holds it fast, who keeps the Sabbath without desecrating it, and keeps their hands from doing any evil."

are those who keep his statutes 
Psalm 119:146  I call out to you; save me and I will keep your statutes.
Psalm 99:7  He spoke to them from the pillar of cloud; they kept his statutes and the decrees he gave them.

and seek him 
1 Chronicles 16:11  Look to the LORD and his strength; seek his face always.
Psalm 40:16  But may all who seek you rejoice and be glad in you; may those who long for your saving help always say, "The LORD is great!"

with all their heart 
Deuteronomy 10:12-13  And now, Israel, what does the LORD your God ask of you but to fear the LORD your God, to walk in obedience to him, to love him, to serve the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul, and to observe the LORD's commands and decrees that I am giving you today for your own good?

Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version® NIV®, Copyright© 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. 
Limited to 15 verses per post.

GRACE Acts 15:10-11

"Now then, why do you try to test God by putting on the necks of Gentiles a yoke that neither we nor our ancestors have been able to bear? No! We believe it is through the grace of our Lord Jesus that we are saved, just as they are."

Now then, why do you try to test God 
Acts 5:9  Peter said to her, "How could you conspire to test the Spirit of the Lord? Listen! The feet of the men who buried your husband are at the door, and they will carry you out also."

by putting on the necks of Gentiles a yoke that neither we nor our ancestors have been able to bear 
Matthew 23:4  "They tie up heavy, cumbersome loads and put them on other people's shoulders, but they themselves are not willing to lift a finger to move them."
Galatians 5:1  It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.

We believe it is through the grace of our Lord Jesus that we are saved 
Romans 3:24  ... and all are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.
Galatians 2:16  "We who are Jews by birth and not sinful Gentiles know that a person is not justified by the works of the law, but by faith in Jesus Christ. So we, too, have put our faith in Christ Jesus that we may be justified by faith in Christ and not by the works of the law, because by the works of the law no one will be justified."
Ephesians 2:4-9  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. And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus, in order that in the coming ages he might show the incomparable riches of his grace, expressed in his kindness to us in Christ Jesus. For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith--and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God--not by works, so that no one can boast.

Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version® NIV®, Copyright© 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. 
Limited to 15 verses per post.

SEEK Psalm 105:3-4

Glory in his holy name; let the hearts of those who seek the LORD rejoice. Look to the LORD and his strength; seek his face always.

Glory in his holy name 
Psalm 89:16  They rejoice in your name all day long; they celebrate your righteousness.
Psalm 30:4-5  Sing the praises of the LORD, you his faithful people; praise his holy name. For his anger lasts only a moment, but his favor lasts a lifetime; weeping may stay for the night, but rejoicing comes in the morning.

seek his face always 
Psalm 24:5-6  They will receive blessing from the LORD and vindication from God their Savior. Such is the generation of those who seek him, who seek your face, God of Jacob.
Psalm 27:8  My heart says of you, "Seek his face!" Your face, LORD, I will seek.
Psalm 119:58  I have sought your face with all my heart; be gracious to me according to your promise.
Hosea 5:14-15  "For I will be like a lion to Judah. I will tear them to pieces and go away; I will carry them off, with no one to rescue them. Then I will return to my lair until they have borne their guilt and seek my face--in their misery they will earnestly seek me."

Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version® NIV®, Copyright© 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. 
Limited to 15 verses per post.