Something is wrong with my Christian forum. Everything seems to be working normally (i.e., the articles are there, and the links work), but for some reason, the forum's format has changed slightly, and I am currently unable to post anything new.

I'm really sorry for the inconvenience. Hopefully, the problem is only temporay and will be fixed soon.

MARCH 31

This was the apostle Paul's advice to Christians:

Ephesians 4:28: "Let him [or her] that stole steal no more: but rather let him [or her] labour [labor, be employed, get a job, make an honest living], working with his [or her] hands [doing] the thing which is good [or that will benefit others], [so] that he [or she--the Christian] may have [enough money left over after buying food, clothing, shelter, and other basic necessities, paying bills, etc.] to give [money, gifts, or assistance] to him [or her] that needeth [or is in need]."
Donald C. Flemming summed up this verse as follows:

"… Instead of stealing, Christians should work honestly, both to help others and to look after themselves …"

(Source; https://www.studylight.org/commentary/ephesians/4-28.html, "Bridgeway Bible Commentary")

Commenting on the above verse, Albert Barnes said:

"Let him that stole steal no more - Theft, like lying, was, and is, almost a universal vice among the pagan [non-Christian person]. The practice of pilfering [stealing] prevails [is common or widespread] in, probably, every pagan community, and no property is safe which is not guarded, or so locked up as to be inaccessible [unreachable]. Hence, as the Christian converts at Ephesus had been long addicted to it, there was danger that they would fall into it again; and hence the necessity of special cautions on that head. We are not to suppose that 'pilfering' was a common vice [bad behavior] in the church, but the cautions on this point proceed on the principle that, where a man has been long in the habit of a particular sin, he is in great danger of falling into it again. Hence, we caution the man who has been intemperate [uncontrolled] against the least indulgence in [partaking of] intoxicating drinks; we exhort [urge] him not to touch that which would be so strong a temptation to him. The object of the apostle [Paul] was to show that the gospel requires holy living in all its friends, and to entreat [try to convince] Christians at Ephesus in a special manner to avoid the vices of the surrounding pagan.

"But rather let him labour - Let him seek the means of living in an honest manner, by his own industry [hard work], rather than by wronging others.

"Working with his hands - Pursuing some honest employment. Paul was not ashamed to labor with 'his own hands' … and no man is dishonored by labor. God made man for toil [hard work] … and employment is essential to the happiness of the race. No man, who is 'able' to support himself, has a 'right' to depend on others …

"That he may have to give to him that needeth - … Not merely that may have the means of support, but that he may have it in his power to aid [help] others. The reason and propriety [appropriateness] of this is obvious. The human race is one great brotherhood. A considerable part 'cannot' labor to support themselves. They are too old, or too young; or they are crippled, or feeble [weak], or laid on beds of sickness. If others do not divide with them the avails [benefits, fruits] of their labors, they will perish [die]. We are required to laboar [labor] in order that we may have the privilege of contributing to their comfort. Learn from this verse:

"(1) That every Christian should have some calling, business, or profession, by which he may support himself. The Saviour [Jesus] was carpenter; [the apostle] Paul a tentmaker; and no man is disgraced by being able to build a house or to construct a tent.

"(2) Christianity promotes industry. It is rare that an idle [a lazy] man becomes a Christian; but if he does, religion makes him industrious [hard-working] just in proportion as it has influence over his mind. To talk of a 'lazy Christian,' is about the same as to talk of burning water or freezing fire.

"(3) Christians should have some 'useful' and 'honest' employment. They should work 'that which is good.' They should not pursue an employment [go after a job] which will necessarily injure [harm] others. No man has a right to place a nuisance [something annoying] under the window of his neighbor; nor has he any 'more' right to pursue an employment that shall lead his neighbor into sin or ruin him. An honest employment benefits everybody. A good farmer is a benefit to his neighborhood and country; and a good shoemaker, blacksmith, weaver, cabinetmaker, watchmaker, machinist, is a blessing to the community. He injures no one; he benefits all. How is it with the distiller [manufacturer of liquor], and the vender [vendor, seller] of alcoholic drinks? He benefits no one; he injures every body. Every quart of intoxicating drink that is taken from his house does evil somewhere - evil, and only evil, and that continually. No one is made better, or richer; no one is made more moral or industrious; no one is helped on the way to heaven by it. Thousands are helped on the way to hell by it, who are already in the path; and thousands are 'induced' [persuaded] to walk in the way to death who, but for that distillery, store, or tavern [pub, bar], might have walked in the way to heaven. Is this then 'working that which is good?' Would [the apostle] Paul have done it? Would Jesus do it? Strange, that by a professing Christian it was ever done! See a striking instance of the way in which the Ephesian Christians acted when they were first converted, in … Acts 19:19 [i.e., they burned their books about witchcraft]…

(4) The main business of a Christian is not to 'make money,' and to become rich. It is that he may have the means of benefiting others. Beyond what he needs for himself, his poor, and sick, and aged [old], and afflicted [troubled] brother and friend has a claim on his earnings - and they should be liberally bestowed [generously given].

(5) We should labor in 'order' that we may have the means of doing good to others. It should be just as much a matter of plan and purpose to do this, as it is to labor in order to buy a coat, or to build a house, or to live comfortably, or to have the means of a decent burial. Yet how few are those who have any such end in view, or who pursue their daily toil definitely, 'that they may have something to give away!' The world will be soon converted when all Christians make that the purpose of life …"

(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/bnb/ephesians-4.html,, "Verse 28")

MARCH 29-30

Biblical Prophecy: Mark of the Beast

This event will occur in the not-too-distant future--after the "rapture of the saints" (i.e., when all born-again Christians receive spiritual bodies and are taken to heaven, per 1 Corinthians 15:52) and during the seven-year tribulation that people who have been left behind on the earth will be forced to endure (suffer through).

Revelation 13:16: "And he [the second beast, or false prophet] causeth [causes] all [people in the world, or makes everyone], both small and great [young and old, short and tall, humble and powerful, etc.], rich and poor, free and bond [referring to people who enjoy freedom and to those who are in bondage (e.g., imprisoned, enslaved) and have no freedom], to receive a mark [to have a mark (perhaps a tattoo--see note below*) stamped or imprinted] in their right hand, or in their foreheads:"

Revelation 13:17: "And that no man [or woman or child] might [be allowed to] buy or sell, save [except] he [or she] that had the mark, or the name of the beast [the Antichrist], or the number of his [the Antichrist's] name [imprinted on his (or her) body]."

Revelation 13:18: "Here is wisdom [required]. Let him [or her] that hath [has] understanding [of the meaning of numbers in the Bible] count the number of the beast [the Antichrist]: for it is the number of a man; and his [the Antichrist's] number is Six hundred threescore and six [666--see note below*]."
*For more information on biblical prophecy, especially the mark of the beast and 666, read one or more of the following articles:

-- "What is the image of the beast?"
     https://www.gotquestions.org/image-of-the-beast.html

-- "What is the mark of the beast?"
     https://www.gotquestions.org/mark-beast.html

-- "What is the meaning of 666"?
     https://www.gotquestions.org/meaning-of-666.html

-- "Is it possible for a person to get the mark of the beast today?"
     https://www.gotquestions.org/mark-of-the-beast-today.html

-- "Will there be a second chance for salvation after the Rapture?"
     https://www.gotquestions.org/second-chance-rapture.html

-- "What are tribulation saints?"
     https://www.gotquestions.org/tribulation-saints.html

As is explained in the above articles, if you don't get saved before the rapture takes place and before you die, you'll be faced with the choice of receiving the mark of the beast (and ending up in hell for eternity) or refusing the mark of the beast and either starving to death or losing your head--literally. That's why it's so important to be saved as soon as possible.

According to the Bible, it's easy to be born again, or saved.

Basically, if you believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God and Messiah, that he died on the cross to pay for your sins, and that he was buried and rose again, all you need to do is sincerely ask him (through prayer, either silently or out loud) to come into your heart and save you so you can go to heaven when you die.

Please do it now!

Note: Detailed instructions on the plan of salvation can be found in the "Printable Gospel Tracts" section of my website. Here's a direct link to that page: https://www.mansioninheaven.com/PrintableGospelTracts.html.

MARCH 27-28

The Apostle John's Advice for Christians

In these verses, we're told how to recognize and avoid false teachers:

1 John 4:1: "Beloved [a term of endearment], believe not every spirit [don't believe or trust everyone who claims to be sent from God and led (influenced, guided) by the Holy Spirit], but try [examine, test] the spirits [to see] whether they are of [from] God [in other words, examine the person's religious doctrines (beliefs) and 'works' or 'fruit' (things that he or she has done because of those doctrines) to see if they conform to (agree with, follow) the Bible]: [the reason you must 'try the spirits' is] because many false prophets [false teachers and preachers--see note below*] are gone out [from the devil, or Satan,] into the world."

1 John 4:2: "Hereby know ye [this is how you can recognize] the [Holy] Spirit of God: Every spirit that confesseth [encourages a person to confess or proclaim] that Jesus Christ [the Son of God] is come [to earth] in the flesh [as a human being, which means that he is both God and man--see note below**] is of [from] God:"

1 John 4:3: "And every spirit that confesseth not [does not want people to confess or proclaim] that Jesus Christ is come [to earth] in the flesh is not of God: and this is that spirit of antichrist [the spirit of error that exists in false teachers, who are forerunners of (or who come before) the real antichrist, who will be revealed after the rapture (the taking away to heaven) of born-again Christians], whereof [of which] ye [you] have heard that it [the anti-Christian spirit, or 'the spirit of antichrist'] should come [to earth]; and even now [in New Testament times, when these verses were written] already is it [it is] in the world."
According to Albert Barnes, we can try the spirits by comparing "… the doctrines which they [preachers and other religious teachers] professed to hold with what was revealed, and by the fruits of their doctrines in their lives. If they taught what God had taught in his word [i.e., the Bible], and if their lives corresponded with his requirements, and if their doctrines agreed with what had been inculcated [repeatedly taught] by those who were admitted to be true apostles …, they [the Christians] were to receive them [the preachers and teachers] as what they professed to be. If not, they were to reject them, and hold them to be impostors."

(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/bnb/1-john-4.html, "Verse 1")

In a different Bible commentary, John Gill points out that "… whoever owns and declares this system of truth [referring to the person and office of Jesus Christ; i.e., that he is the Son of God (with a human nature), Messiah, Savior of mankind, prophet, priest, King, etc.], 'is of God'; not that everyone that assents unto [agrees with] this [truth], or preaches it, is born of God [meaning born again, or saved]; a man [or woman or child] may believe, and confess all this, as the devils themselves do, and yet be destitute of [not have] the grace of God; but the spirit, or doctrine, which contains these things in it, is certainly of God, or comes from him; or whoever brings these truths with him [or her], and preaches them, he [or she] is, so far as he [or she] does so, on the side of God and truth, and [is] to be regarded [listened to, believed]."

(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentary/1-john/4-2.html, "John Gill's Exposition of the Whole Bible")

*For more information about false prophets, read "How can I recognize a false teacher / false prophet?" Here's the link: https://www.gotquestions.org/false-teachers.html.

**Another GotQuestions.org article answers the following question: "How can Jesus be both God and man at the same time?" You can read that article here: https://www.gotquestions.org/Jesus-God-man.html.

MARCH 26

In this psalm, King David wrote:

Psalm 37:4: "Delight thyself [yourself] also in the LORD [God]; and he shall give thee [you] the desires of thine [your] heart."
In his commentary on this verse, Albert Barnes compares the relationship of a Christian and God to that of a child and his father, and he says, in part:

"(a) the fact that you seek your happiness in him [God] will regulate your desires, so that you will be 'disposed' [inclined] to ask only those things which it will be proper for him to grant; and

"(b) the fact that you do find your happiness in him [God] will be a reason why he will grant your desires [give you what you want].

"The fact that a child loves his father, and finds his happiness in doing his [father's] will, will do much to regulate his own 'wishes' or 'desires,' and will at the same thee [sic--he probably meant time] be a reason why the father will be disposed to comply with [or grant] his [child's] requests."

(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/bnb/psalms-37.html, "Verse 4")

In another commentary, John Gill gave some examples of how we can "delight in the LORD":

"Delight thyself also in the Lord,.... In the persons in God [i.e.], Father, Son, and [Holy] Spirit; in the perfections of God, his power, goodness, faithfulness, wisdom, love, grace, and mercy; in his works of creation, providence [guidance and care], and redemption [salvation]; in his word [as recorded in the Bible], his Gospel, the truths and ordinances [laws] of it; in his house [place of worship, such as a church] … and in his people [Christians] … [;] each of these afford a field of delight and pleasure, to attend unto, contemplate [think about], and meditate upon;"

(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentary/psalms/37-4.html, "Gill's Exposition of the Whole Bible")

MARCH 25

During the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus said to his disciples (followers):

Matthew 6:34: "Take therefore no thought for the morrow [don't be anxious about tomorrow]: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself [in other words, don't worry about bad things that might happen tomorrow, or in the future, because it's useless for you to worry about things that you can't change]. Sufficient unto the day is the evil [or trouble] thereof [which means that each day has its own problems]."
We can only live one day at a time.

Naturally, like everyone else, Christians should plan ahead for normal future events, such as saving for retirement; however, we shouldn't worry needlessly about problems that may occur someday, because we are assured by the Bible that when we trust God for guidance, protection, and help, he will take care of our daily needs. We must learn to stop worrying and leave the future in God's hands.

GotQuestions.org has an article about today's verse. It's entitled "'Do not worry about tomorrow'--is that even possible (Matthew 6:34)?" and can be found here: https://www.gotquestions.org/do-not-worry-about-tomorrow.html.


MARCH 24

Duties of Angels

Hebrews 1:13: "But to which of the angels said he [God] at any time, Sit on [at] my right hand, until I make thine [your] enemies thy [your] footstool [or 'until your enemies are conquered, vanquished, brought under control or subjection']? [Answer: God said it to none of the angels, but to his Son, Jesus--see note below*]

Hebrews 1:14: Are they [the good angels] not all ministering spirits [see note below**], sent forth [by God] to minister for [serve, help, care for, and protect] them who shall be heirs of salvation [i.e., those who will someday inherit (be given, receive) eternal life, referring to born-again Christians, who have become children of God through adoption into the family of God]?"
*The promise the apostle Paul mentioned in verse 13 above, as recorded in Psalm 110:1 in the Bible, was made by God to his Son, Jesus Christ (the Messiah), not to the angels.

**According to Matthew Henry, angels "… are spirits, without bodies or inclination to bodies, and yet they can assume bodies, and appear in them, when God pleases …"

(Source: https://www.biblestudytools.com/commentaries/matthew-henry-complete/hebrews/1.html, "v. 13, 14")

In his commentary on Hebrews 1:14, Albert Barnes lists some of the things that angels do:

"(1) They feel a deep interest in man [mankind, human beings] …

"(2) They feel a special interest in all that relates to the redemption [salvation] of man …

"(3) They appear for the defense and protection of the people of God [i.e., Christians] …

"(4) Angels are sent to give us strength to resist temptation …

"(5) They support us in affliction …

"(6) They attend dying saints [i.e., born-again Christians], and conduct them to glory [accompany them to heaven] …"

The above points, including references to many specific Bible verses, are discussed in Mr. Barnes' commentary on verse 14. If you want to read it, here's the link: https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/bnb/hebrews-1.html.

MARCH 23

Christianity, Assurance of Salvation, and Prayer

In a letter to born-again Christians, the apostle John wrote:

1 John 3:19: "And hereby [by this, referring to the fact that we have a genuine love for others and are willing to help them if necessary,] we know that we are of the truth [we are true Christians], and shall assure [persuade, make certain, reassure] our hearts [or convince ourselves] [that we are acceptable] before him [God]."

1 John 3:20: "For if our heart [conscience] condemn us [accuses us--of being hypocrites (as when we pretend to love others) or of hiding secret sins], God is greater than our heart, and knoweth [knows] all things [that are in our heart; in other words, he knows the truth]."

1 John 3:21: "Beloved, if our heart condemn us not [does not condemn us, or does not confirm the fact that we are not really saved and are not living a life that is pleasing to God], then have we [or 'we have'] confidence toward God [meaning we know that our sins have been pardoned and we have been accepted by God--see note below*]."
*Regarding the phrase then have we confidence towards God in 1 John 3:21, John Gill said:

"… those that love the brethren [i.e., other Christians] have confidence of their relation to God; by this they know … that they are the children of God; and can therefore draw nigh [near] to God as their Father, and call him so; they can … tell him [God] all [that is on] their mind, pour out their souls unto him, and lay before him their case and wants [desires]; they have confidence of his power, faithfulness, and willingness to supply their need, and fulfil all his promises to them, and that their prayers will be heard, answered, and regarded by him [God] in his own time."

(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentary/1-john/3-21.html, "John Gill's Exposition of the Whole Bible")

MARCH 22

The Importance of Teaching Children About the Bible

In a letter to Timothy, a minister of the gospel, the apostle Paul wrote:

2 Timothy 3:14: "But continue thou in the things which thou hast [you have] learned and hast been assured of [i.e., hold fast to the doctrines (truths) contained in the Bible], knowing of whom thou hast learned them [knowing that you have learned them not only from me (Paul) but also from your mother and grandmother];"

2 Timothy 3:15: "And that from a child [ever since you were a very young child] thou hast known the holy scriptures [in Timothy's case, referring to verses in the Old Testament, as the New Testament had not yet been written], which are able to make thee [you] wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus."
Among many other things, the Bible teaches about sin, salvation, heaven, hell, and the gift of eternal life. According to the Bible, Jesus Christ, the sinless Son of God, willingly came to earth, died on the cross to pay for our sins, and then rose from the dead (came back to life). The only way that we can go to heaven someday is by believing those facts about Jesus and trusting him as our personal Savior [see note below*].

Like Timothy's mother, we need to introduce our children to the Bible at an early age.

*Are you wondering, "What does it mean to accept Jesus as your personal Savior?" If so, GotQuestions.org has the answer. Click here: https://www.gotquestions.org/personal-Savior.html.

MARCH 20-21

Proverbs 20:18: "Every purpose [intention or plan to do something] is established [decided] by counsel [advice, guidance]: and with good advice make war."
Salem Bible Church has an excellent commentary on this verse, including many examples of why we should always seek good advice and direction (from people, the Bible, and God himself), not only before going to war but before making any major (big, important) life decisions, such as moving, building an addition to the house, going back to school, changing careers, getting married, buying a home or a car, having surgery, etc.

In the section of the commentary entitled "Every purpose is established by counsel," we are cautioned: "Be aware that sometimes friends with the best of intentions give BAD advice… and terrible counsel … Therefore, compare every word of advice you receive from men with the Word of God [i.e., the Bible]."

We are also told that:

"c. Wise counsel from people who have expertise in that area might mean the difference between success or failure. (established)

"d. It may be a good idea that you have:
"• But you may be using a wrong method to accomplish it.
"• It may be a good idea, but the wrong time… wrong place…
"• It may be a good idea, but needs a few minor adjustments.
"• It may be a good idea but you're not the person to do it.
"• A counselor may have a much easier, more efficient, more cost effective way of accomplishing your goal.
"• A counselor may have some other idea to enhance your good idea and make it even better.
"• It may be a good idea, but you need to be warned about some potential pitfalls.

"e. It may be a terrible idea.
"• It may be obvious to others that it won't work.
"• Sometimes people get crazy ideas in their heads… and they just have to be told!
"• Perhaps others have tried it before you and consistently failed miserably.
"• A good, honest counselor who is out for your best interest will tell you so--and in doing so, save you a lot of time, grief, and money!"

And in regard to "making war," the commentary says:

"3. Note that he [King Solomon, the author of the this proverb] says to get 'good advice.'

"a. Prov. 24:6 -- There is safety in a multitude [large number] of counselors.
"• If you are considering war, safety ought to be paramount [most important] in your thinking.
"• Getting a multitude of counselors is what we would call getting a second opinion… and a third!
"• You are unlikely to be called upon to make plans for a war, but we may have to make war plans in dealing with our health.
"• If one doctor gives you a diagnosis and suggests a serious operation, get another doctor's advice before you subject yourself to the knife!
"• What you want is not just advice, but GOOD advice.
"• Luke 14:31 -- This king needs to sit down and CONSULT with wise men… with his army leaders… to see if it is advisable to go to war…
"» Do I have enough troops to win?
"» Do we have enough weapons?
"» Do we have a winning strategy?
"» Will the people be behind us?
"» Is this the right time?
"» There are lots of things to consider before going to war.
"» And you NEED to consult with experts before engaging in such a BIG decision.
"» When it comes to making big decisions, don't act rashly [hastily, without thinking it over]!
"• Don't operate merely by impulse… or go by gut feelings.
"• When making big decisions, it's much wiser to use your ears and your head rather than relying on your gut [or 'trusting your instincts'].
"• Don't make ignorant assumptions. Get good advice.
"• Look before you leap… get good advice before you leap.
"• Count the cost."

If you want to read the rest of the commentary, here's the link: https://www.salembible.org/proverbs-index/proverbs-20-index/proverbs-20_18/.

MARCH 19

During his prayer to God concerning the nation of Israel, the prophet Isaiah said:

Isaiah 64:8: "But now, O LORD, thou art [you are] our father; we are the clay, and thou [you] [are] our potter; and we all are the work of thy [your] hand."
God has created the Jewish people and everyone else in the world, and he is able to shape us as he sees fit (like a potter does with a lump of clay while creating a beautiful vase). This is especially true after we get saved, or become born-again Christians.

MARCH 18

While answering a question from his disciples, Jesus placed a little child in the middle of the group (as an example) and said:

Matthew 18:10: "Take heed [pay attention to my warning] that ye [you] despise not [don't hate] one of these little ones [i.e., young children, like the one in front of him, but actually referring to born-again Christians, who are similar to children in a spiritual way--see note below*]; for I [Jesus] say unto you, That in heaven their angels [or ministering spirits, thought to be 'guardian angels' by some people--see note below**] do always behold [look upon, see] the face of my Father [God] which is in heaven."
*The phrase one of these little ones in the above verse refers to what Jesus said in Matthew 18:2-3: "And Jesus called a little child unto him, and set him in the midst of them, And said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted [in your thinking], and become [humble and believing,] as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven."

**For information on guardian angels, read the article entitled "Do we have guardian angels?" Here's the link: https://www.gotquestions.org/guardian-angels.html.

MARCH 17

Psalm 127:3: "Lo [look, or notice this fact:], children are an heritage of [an inheritance from] the LORD: and the fruit of the womb [referring to one or more babies, who are conceived in, nourished (fed, or provided with food and nutrients to promote growth) in, and delivered from a woman's uterus] is his [God's] reward [gift--to the parents]."
Children are a gift from God.

MARCH 16

1 Corinthians 3:19: "For the wisdom of this world [in this case, referring to wisdom regarding philosophy and religion] is foolishness with [to] God. For it is written [in Job 5:13], He [God] taketh [takes] the wise [people] in their own craftiness [dishonesty, deceitfulness] [which means that God catches these people 'in their own nets,' foils their plans (prevents their plans from succeeding), etc.]."

MARCH 15

King David prayed to God:

Psalm 119:29: "Remove from me the way of lying [i.e., anything that may tempt me to lie or believe a lie]: and grant me thy [your] law graciously [or 'help me, Lord, to know, love, and obey your word, as recorded in the Bible']."
That should be our prayer, too.

MARCH 13-14

Ephesians 5:20: "Giving thanks always for all things [see note below*] unto God and the Father [which means that we should give thanks 'specially to God the Father,' who is one of the three persons (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit) who comprise (make up) the Godhead, or Trinity] [and we should do this (give thanks) through written and spoken words, songs, prayers, etc.] in the name of [and by the authority of] our Lord Jesus Christ [because Jesus Christ is the Son of God (or 'God the Son'), Messiah, Savior of mankind (the human race, all human beings), and mediator between God the Father and us (see note below**)];"
Christians should be grateful to God for everything that we have, and we should remember to thank and praise him for it--frequently.

*Regarding the phrase "Giving thanks always for all things" in the above verse, James Burton Coffman wrote:

"… This cannot mean that a Christian should give thanks because illness, suffering, loss and adversity [troubles] of many kinds may have fallen upon him, but that he should give thanks for 'all things' in every situation that may afford a proper ground of gratitude [thankfulness] to God. Thus: When one is young, let him thank God for youth; when he is old, let him thank God that he has been permitted so long to live; in health, for strength and joy; in sickness, for the ministry of physician, nurse, loved ones and friends; in poverty, for the privilege of living 'like Jesus'; in wealth, for God's endowments [blessings]; in death itself, for the hope of eternal life, etc., etc."

(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentary/ephesians/5-20.html, "Coffman's Commentaries on the Bible")

**The word mediator is defined in an article entitled "What does it mean that Jesus is our mediator?" If you want to read it, here's the link: https://www.gotquestions.org/Jesus-mediator.html.

Regarding today's verse, one Bible commentator wrote:

"… Giving thanks always rather seems to be an indication that our thanksgiving is to be a normal part of our lives. This includes when we are down [unhappy, depressed], when we are poor, when we are rich, when we are sick and when we are healthy. I didn't say that it was an easy task, but it is the normal life of the believer [born-again Christian]. We can do this because we know that all that we go through is meant to allow us to honor God in every conceivable [possible] way. It is, of course our choice, we don"t have to be thankful, but that is the standard that God wishes us to follow …"

(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentary/ephesians/5-20.html, "Derickson's Notes on Selected Books," "Verse 20")

MARCH 11-12

In the Old Testament, God's prophet Ezekiel wrote:

Ezekiel 3:16-17: "And it came to pass at the end of seven days [during which time Ezekiel was taken by God's Spirit to Telabib, a city in Babylon, and was left there to observe the captives], that the word of the LORD [i.e., God] came unto me [Ezekiel], saying, Son of man, I have made thee [you] a watchman unto the house [the nation] of Israel: therefore hear the word at my mouth, and give them [the Israelites] warning from me [God]."

Ezekiel 3:18: "When I [God] say unto the wicked [person, referring to an unsaved sinner], Thou shalt [you shall] surely die [spiritually]; and thou [you (Ezekiel)] givest him not warning [do not give him (or her) a warning or tell him (or her) how to be saved], nor [do you] speakest [speak] to warn the wicked [person] [to depart] from his [or her] wicked way, to save his [or her] life; the same wicked man [or woman or child] shall die in his [or her] iniquity [sins]; but his [or her] blood will I require at thine [your] hand [which meant that Ezekiel would be held responsible for what happened to that 'wicked' person]."

Ezekiel 3:19: "Yet if thou [do] warn the wicked [person] [of his (or her) sin and danger], and he [or she] turn not [does not turn] from his [or her] wickedness, nor from his [or her] wicked way, he [or she--the 'wicked' person] shall die in his [or her] iniquity; but thou hast [you have] delivered thy [your] soul [from blame, which meant that Ezekiel would not be held responsible for what happened to that 'wicked' person]."
We should always try to warn people of danger. Some will listen, and some will not. Unfortunately, anyone who receives a warning but chooses to ignore (rather than obey) it should be prepared to suffer the consequences.

In the Bible, God chose Ezekiel to be a spiritual watchman for the Jewish people and told him to warn them to repent, be saved, and turn from their wicked ways. Likewise, Christians, especially church leaders (ministers, pastors, preachers, etc.) should warn sinners to do the same.

In his commentary on Chapter 3 of Ezekiel, regarding the meaning of verses 18-19, Pastor Chuck Smith said:

"Now, look, I've set you as a watchman, and you are responsible to hear My word and to speak My word. And if I say to the wicked, 'You're going to die,' if you warn them and they listen, great, they will live. If they don't listen, at least you've delivered your soul. If you don't warn them and they die, then you're responsible. The blood is on your hands.

"What does it mean to have the blood on my hands? What does it mean to fail in my service to God? If God is saying to the wicked, 'Hey, you better turn,' and God uses or calls me to be the spokesman to warn those people that they better turn from their wickedness or God's judgment is coming, and if I fail to do it and God's judgment comes and they're destroyed, what does that mean that their blood is on my hands? It means that God holds me responsible, and that the reward [in heaven] that I would have for faithful service [on earth] will not be given to me.

"Now, notice he [Ezekiel] wasn't told to convince the wicked to turn. He wasn't told to argue with them. He was only told to declare to them the warning of God. That's all. We so often in our Christian experience make the mistake of thinking that we've got to somehow convert people to Jesus Christ. You can't convert them to Jesus Christ [i.e., make them be born-again Christians]. God doesn't call you to convert people to Jesus Christ. He calls you to warn people. And therein is the calling of God. 'I've called you, ' He [God] said, 'to warn them.' You've got to obey it [i.e., the call from God]. You've got to be responsible."

(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentary/ezekiel/3-16.html, "Smith's Bible Commentary")

The article entitled "What are watchmen in the Bible?" explains who watchmen are and what they do. If you want to read it, here's the link: https://www.gotquestions.org/watchmen-in-the-Bible.html.

MARCH 9-10

Apostasy and Revenge

This was written by the apostle Paul to the Jewish people as a warning against apostasy (abandonment or renunciation of their Christian faith), but it also applies to Christians today:

Hebrews 10:28: "[In the Old Testament,] He [or she] that despised [disregarded, rejected, refused to obey] Moses' law died without mercy [pity, compassion] under [based upon the testimony of] two or three witnesses:"

Hebrews 10:29: "Of how much sorer [more severe] punishment [than physical death, which 'he that despised Moses' law' received in Old Testament times], suppose ye [do you think], shall he [or she, referring to a born-again Christian,] be thought worthy [of receiving] [i.e., what worse punishment is deserved by a professing Christian], who hath trodden under foot [has trampled on, disrespected, treated with contempt] [the Lord Jesus Christ, who is] the Son of God, and [who] hath counted [has considered] the blood of the covenant [referring to the New Testament agreement between God and mankind, which is based on the blood that was shed (poured out) by Jesus when he died on the cross to pay for our sins], wherewith [by which--referring to Jesus' blood] he [or she--the saved person] was sanctified [cleansed from sin, purified, set apart for service to God], an unholy [common, ordinary] thing [referring to 'the blood of the covenant,' which the apostatizing person considers to be 'an unholy thing'], and hath done despite unto [has insulted] the Spirit of grace [i.e., the Holy Spirit]?"

Hebrews 10:30-31: "For we [born-again Christians] [personally] know him [God] that hath said [who has said, in Deuteronomy 32:35,36], Vengeance [revenge, punishment of offenders] belongeth unto [belongs to] me, I will recompense [repay], saith [says] the Lord. And again, The Lord shall judge his people [both the Jewish nation and born-again Christians]. It is a fearful [terrible, frightening] thing to fall into the hands of the living God [when he is punishing sin]."
In these verses, we learn that salvation is a serious thing and must be treated with respect. When Christians sin or backslide, they can repent and be forgiven by God, but people who willfully reject Jesus and renounce (give up, abandon) their Christian faith after being 'born again' can't be saved a second time, which means that they'll eventually end up in hell and the lake of fire. This is explained by Charles Spurgeon in the note below.*

In addition to avoiding apostasy, we shouldn't seek revenge. When someone "does you wrong," forget about getting even or paying that person back. Instead, let God decide what to do.

*Here's a good explanation of the consequences of apostasy, quoted from "Spurgeon's Verse Expositions of the Bible" (https://www.truthaccordingtoscripture.com/commentaries/spe/hebrews-10.php#.YijX4nzMJaQ, "Verses 1-39"):

"Hebrews 10:26-27. For if we sin wilfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins, but a certain fearful looking for of judgment and fiery indignation, which shall devour the adversaries.

"Here the truth taught is that, if a Christian apostatizes, if he renounces his faith, and goes back to the world, it is impossible to reclaim him. A backslider may be restored, but anyone who should wilfully, after receiving the truth, reject it, has rejected the only Saviour [i.e., the Lord Jesus Christ]; he has rejected the only regeneration; and, consequently, he is without the pale of [or 'is beyond'] the possibilities of restoration. The question is, 'Will any true child of God so apostatize?' That question is answered in this very chapter [of Hebrews; see https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Hebrews%2010&version=KJV]; but the truth here taught is that, if he does [apostatize], he goes into a state of absolute hopelessness."

In another section of the same commentary (labeled "Verses 19-39"), Mr. Spurgeon goes on to say this regarding Hebrews 10:26-27:

"… No man was ever born again twice; no man was ever washed twice in the precious blood of Jesus. The one washing makes us so clean that 'he that is washed needeth not [does not need to] [wash again] save [except] to wash his feet,' for which Jesus provides by daily cleansing; but the one grand atoning act never fails. If it did fail, there would remain 'no more sacrifice for sins.'"

GotQuestions.org has an article on the subject of apostasy. It's entitled "If our salvation is eternally secure, why does the Bible warn so strongly against apostasy?" and can be found here: https://www.gotquestions.org/apostasy-salvation.html.

MARCH 7-8

Should Religious Leaders Have Titles?

Referring to religious leaders (in this case, the scribes and Pharisees), Jesus told his disciples:

Matthew 23:8: "But be not ye [do not be] called Rabbi [another word for master and teacher]: for one [person] is your Master, even Christ [Jesus] [himself]; and all ye [all of you] are brethren [fellow Christians, and children of God]."

Matthew 23:9: "And call no man [no religious leader] your [spiritual] father upon the earth: for one [person--God] is your Father, which is in heaven."

Matthew 23:10: "Neither be ye [or 'neither should you be'] called masters [leaders, guides]: for one is your Master, even Christ [Jesus]."
In his commentary on the above verses, Albert Barnes said:

-- "Jesus forbade [refused to allow] his disciples [followers] to seek such titles of distinction [i.e., Rabbi, father, and master] …"

-- "… This title ['Rabbi'--in verse 8] corresponds with the title 'Doctor of Divinity' as applied to ministers of the gospel; and, so far as I can see, the spirit of the Saviour's [i.e., Jesus'] command is violated by the reception of such a title, as really as it would have been by their [the disciples] being called 'Rabbi.' [That's because:] It [the title of 'Rabbi' or 'Doctor of Divinity'] makes a distinction among ministers. It tends to engender [produce] pride and a sense of superiority in those who obtain it, and [it tends to engender] envy and a sense of inferiority in those who do not [have that title]; and the whole spirit and tendency of it is contrary [opposite in nature or meaning] to the 'simplicity that is in Christ.'"

-- It's okay "… to apply the term ['father'] to our real [earthly] father …"

-- It's okay "… to give proper titles of civil office [any public office other than an office in the armed forces] to men, or to render [give] them the honor belonging to their station …"

(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/bnb/matthew-23.html, "Verse 8," "Verse 9," and "Verse 10")

Another Bible commentator said:

"… Jesus rebukes [disapproves of, criticizes] all who use religion as a means of gaining glory [honor and praise] for themselves …"

(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentary/matthew/23-8.html, "The Bible Study New Testament," "Verse 8")

MARCH 6

The Christian Life = Faith + Works

James 2:15-16: "If a brother or sister [if someone, especially a fellow Christian (referred to as 'a brother or sister in Christ')] be naked [without clothes, or dressed in 'rags'], and [is] destitute of [lacking, without enough] daily food, And one of you say unto them, Depart [go away, leave] in peace, be ye [you] warmed and filled [properly clothed and fed]; notwithstanding ye give them not [but you don't give them] those things which are needful to [necessary for] the body; what doth [does] it profit [or 'what good does it do']?

James 2:17: "Even so faith [in the Lord Jesus Christ for salvation], if it hath [has] not [or 'is not accompanied by'] works [good works, charitable acts], is dead, being alone."

James 2:18: "Yea [yes], a man [or woman or child] may say, Thou hast [you have] faith, and I have works: shew me [show me, give evidence of] thy [your] faith without thy works, and I will shew thee my faith by my works [see note below*]."
If we're truly saved, we should be glad to help out when people are in need.

*Meaning of verse 18, according to Albert Barnes:

"And I will show thee my faith by my works - I will furnish in this way the best and most certain proof of the existence of faith. It is implied here that true faith is adapted to lead to a holy life, and that such a life would be the appropriate evidence of the existence of faith. By their fruits the principles held by men are known …"

(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/bnb/james-2.html, "Verse 18")

GotQuestions.org has written an in-depth article that answers the question "What is the biblical understanding of faith vs. works?" It ends by stating: "The faith vs. works debate, then, is really no debate at all. Both faith and works are integral parts of the Christian life. Biblically, faith is the cause of salvation, while works are the evidence of it."

If you want to read more of the article, here's the link: https://www.gotquestions.org/faith-vs-works.html.

MARCH 5

The following warning from God was delivered to Jehoiakim, a king of Judah in Old Testament times, by the prophet Jeremiah:

Jeremiah 22:3: "Thus saith [says] the LORD; Execute ye judgment and righteousness [judge correctly], and deliver the spoiled [people, referring to those whose possessions have been stolen] out of the hand of the oppressor [i.e., rescue them from cruel and oppressive rulers (dictators, etc.)]: and do no wrong [to anyone], do no violence to the stranger [traveler, temporary resident], the fatherless [children (orphans)], nor the widow, neither shed innocent blood [and don't harm or murder innocent and defenseless people, including babies] in this place [in your kingdom]."
This is excellent advice for all world leaders, not just the king of Judah.

For Jehoiakim's background information, read "Who was King Jehoiakim in the Bible?" Here's the link: https://www.gotquestions.org/King-Jehoiakim.html.

MARCH 4

The Holy Spirit is the Christians' Comforter

To his disciples (apostles) during the Last Supper, Jesus said:

John 14:15-16: "If ye [you] love me [Jesus], keep [obey] my commandments [such as, that you love one another]. And [then] I will pray [to] the Father [in heaven--God], and he shall give you another Comforter [in place of me (Jesus, the Son of God, who had only been with them for a few years); Jesus was referring to the Holy Spirit (the third person of the Trinity), who would be sent to teach, guide, help, protect, and comfort the disciples after Jesus left this world], [so] that he [the Holy Spirit] may abide [remain] with you for ever;"

John 14:17: "Even the Spirit of truth [the Holy Spirit]; whom the [unsaved people in the] world cannot receive, because it ['the world' (or the unsaved people in it)] seeth him not [does not see him (the Holy Spirit)], neither [does it ('the world')] knoweth [know] him [the Holy Spirit] [personally]: but ye [you born-again Christians] know him [the Holy Spirit]; for he dwelleth [dwells, lives] with you, and shall be in you [i.e., in your heart]."
Jesus lived on earth for a very short time (he was baptized at age 30, according to Luke 3:23, and his public ministry only lasted about 3½ years--see note below*), but the Holy Spirit lives in the hearts of Christians forever.

*The question "How long was Jesus' ministry?" is answered by GotQuestions.org in an article with that same title. If you want to read it, here's the link: https://www.gotquestions.org/length-Jesus-ministry.html.

MARCH 3

In this verse, King Solomon was providing wise counsel (giving good advice) to his son:

Proverbs 3:1-2: "My son, forget not my law [don't forget the things that I have taught you and the guidance that I have given to you throughout your life]; but let thine [your] heart [mind] keep [obey] my commandments: For length of days, and long life, and peace, shall they add to thee [you]."
What Solomon said to his son regarding their father-son relationship is also true for born-again Christians, who are considered to be "children of God" because we have accepted the Lord Jesus Christ as our personal Savior (John 1:12-13). This means that if we want to have a long, happy, and peaceful life, we should try to memorize scripture and obey God's word, especially the Ten Commandments, which (for your convenience) are listed below:

I am the LORD thy God, which have brought thee out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of bondage.

[1] Thou shalt have no other gods before me.

[2] Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image, or any likeness of any thing that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth: Thou shalt not bow down thyself to them, nor serve them: for I the LORD thy God am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the third and fourth generation of them that hate me; And shewing mercy unto thousands of them that love me, and keep my commandments.

[3] Thou shalt not take the name of the LORD thy God in vain; for the LORD will not hold him guiltless that taketh his name in vain.

[4] Remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy. Six days shalt thou labour, and do all thy work: But the seventh day is the sabbath of the LORD thy God: in it thou shalt not do any work, thou, nor thy son, nor thy daughter, thy manservant, nor thy maidservant, nor thy cattle, nor thy stranger that is within thy gates: For in six days the LORD made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that in them is, and rested the seventh day: wherefore the LORD blessed the sabbath day, and hallowed it.

[5] Honour thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.

[6] Thou shalt not kill.

[7] Thou shalt not commit adultery.

[8] Thou shalt not steal.

[9] Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbour.

[10] Thou shalt not covet thy neighbour's house, thou shalt not covet thy neighbour's wife, nor his manservant, nor his maidservant, nor his ox, nor his ass, nor any thing that is thy neighbour's."

We should memorize Bible verses because:

-- Psalm 119:11 says: "Thy [your] word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee [you, God]."

The Bible is our best teacher because:

-- 2 Timothy 3:16 says: "All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:"

Salem Bible Church has a good commentary on today's verses. If you want to read it, here's the link: https://www.salembible.org/proverbs-index/proverbs-3-index/proverbs-3_1-2/.

MARCH 2

God Destroyed Sodom and Gomorrah -- Do You Know Why?

Genesis 18:20,21: "And the LORD [God, appearing in human form,] said [to Abraham], Because the cry of [the cities of] Sodom and Gomorrah is great [loud], and because their sin [primarily, homosexuality (see note below*), which involves sexual activity between two or more people of the same sex] is very grievous [serious]; I will go down [there] now, and see [confirm] whether they have done altogether according to the cry of it, which is come unto me [in other words, God said he would see for himself if what he had heard was true; i.e., that the people in Sodom and Gomorrah and three surrounding cities were doing those immoral things]; and if not, I will know."
What God had heard about the sin of Sodom and Gomorrah was indeed true, and he ended up destroying those two cities (and two other nearby cities as well, since Zoar was spared) with fire and brimstone because of it.

The story of Sodom and Gomorrah is told in the 19th chapter of Genesis. If you want to read it, here's the link: https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Genesis+19&version=KJV.

*According to the Bible, the "sin of Sodom" was homosexuality. This is explained in the following article: "What was the sin of Sodom and Gomorrah?" If you want to read it, here's the link: https://www.gotquestions.org/Sodom-and-Gomorrah.html.

MARCH 1

Romans 5:19: "For as by one man's [Adam's] disobedience [when he ate some fruit from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil after God specifically warned him not to do that,] many [people; i.e., everyone on earth, all of whom are (and were) Adam and Eve's descendants] were made sinners [at conception, when Adam's sin nature (see note below*) was passed on to them through inheritance], so [likewise, in a similar manner] by the obedience of one [person--Jesus, who died on the cross to pay for our sins] shall many [people] be made righteous [acceptable in God's sight--by being born again, as instructed in the Bible--see note below**]."
In summary, according to Matthew Henry:

"… The disobedience of the first Adam [the first person created by God] ruined us, the obedience of the second Adam [the Lord Jesus Christ] saves us …"

(Source: https://www.biblestudytools.com/commentaries/matthew-henry-complete/romans/5.html, "v. 18, 19")

*The sin nature is explained fully in the article entitled "What is the sin nature?" If you want to read it, here's the link: https://www.gotquestions.org/sin-nature.html.

**According to the Bible, it's easy to be born again, or saved.

Basically, if you believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God and Messiah, that he died on the cross to pay for your sins, and that he was buried and rose again, all you need to do is sincerely ask him (through prayer, either silently or out loud) to come into your heart and save you so you can go to heaven when you die.

Why not do it now?

Note: Detailed instructions on the plan of salvation can be found in the "Printable Gospel Tracts" section of my website. Here's a direct link to that page: https://www.mansioninheaven.com/PrintableGospelTracts.html.