NEW SCHEDULE for A Promise to Ponder

    I want to thank everyone that has made comments on "A Promise to Ponder". I also want thank everyone for reading and sharing the post with others. Due to my VERY busy schedule and possible opportunities I will be writing "A Promise to Ponder" on a weekly basis. Please feel free to contact me via facebook, my ministry account on Plaxo.com (connect with Caleb and Holly), or directly post a comment on my posts @ miriclemorningministries.blogspot.com. God Bless. I will post on EVERY Monday. God Bless and I look forward to hearing from you all soon.

A Promise to Ponder Volume 1 Issue 17

2 Corinthians 1:20 - For all the promises of God in him are yea, and in him Amen, unto the glory of God by us.

Yea – 1) yea, verily, truly, assuredly, even so

Amen – 1) firm, a) metaph. Faithful, 2) verily, amen, a) at the beginning of a discourse - surely, truly, of a truth, b) at the end - so it is, so be it, may it be fulfilled.

   Have you ever had someone make a promise to you then broke it? It hurts doesn’t it? Promises are made by people all the time without really thinking, we just say “O.k. I promise I’ll…” and then sometimes, if anyone is like me, we forget to do what we promised. We as the human race may forget to do all we say, however, according to our verse today ALL the promises that God makes will be kept. We can read through God’s word and see many promises that He has made and we can rest assured that God will do what He says.

   If you have ANY questions about God’s faithfulness to fulfill all His promises all you have to do is read the Bible and you see for yourself the promises God made and kept all through the Bible. The Bible reinforces itself by not only making an argument, but backing it up. Look at the words at the top and see their definitions. These words tell us that the promises made by God will assuredly happen and we can stand firm on what He says. Why would God make sure He keeps His promises? His “reputation” is on the line, “unto the glory of God”. Every time God keeps a promise He has made His glory is seen and He receives the glory as well. When God promises something He lays it all on the line. When God lays everything on the line you can be sure He will not let you down.

   Simply put this verse promises that because of Who God is He will keep all the promises made by Him. He will NOT disappoint. HE will come through every time. Now that’s a Promise to Ponder.

A Promise to Ponder Volume 1 Issue 16

2 Corinthians 1: 5 - For as the sufferings of Christ abound in us, so our consolation also aboundeth by Christ.

the sufferings – 1) that which one suffers or has suffered, a) externally, a suffering, misfortune, calamity, evil, affliction, 1) of the sufferings of Christ 2) also the afflictions which Christians must undergo in behalf of the same cause which Christ patiently endured, b) of an inward state, an affliction, passion, 2) an enduring, undergoing, suffering

Abound/aboundeth – 1) to exceed a fixed number of measure, to be left over and above a certain number or measure, a) to be over, to remain, b) to exist or be at hand in abundance, 1) to be great (abundant), 2) a thing which comes in abundance, or overflows unto one, something falls to the lot of one in large measure

Consolation – 1) a calling near, summons, (esp. for help), 2) importation, supplication, entreaty, 3) exhortation, admonition, encouragement, 4) consolation, comfort, solace; that which affords comfort or refreshment, a) thus of the Messianic salvation (so the Rabbis call the Messiah the consoler, the comforter)

   The life of a Christian is a difficult one. The Christian is called by God to be separate from the world (Romans 12:1-2, 2 Corinthians 6:17). God tells us that the Christian life will be difficult (Matthew 5:11-12, John 15:18-19). I understand you are not saying “WOW I love this promise!” right now, but hold on. In this life trials will come as the Bible states in many places such as: Romans 5:3, Romans 12:12, 2 Corinthians 1:4, just to name a few. You see our verse today tells us that we must suffer in this life as Christ suffered in this life. As a matter of fact the verse says that “the sufferings of Christ abound in us”. Make no mistake about it if you are living a separated, holy life for the Lord suffering WILL come.

   Now that I have you completely depressed about living for the Lord, let me say that this verse does not end there. Can I hear a PRAISE GOD!! I know that’s what I’m saying. The “bad news” is done let’s move on to the “good news”. “Our consolation also aboundeth by Christ.” God says that He will NEVER leave you nor forsake you. He also tells us to cast our burdens on Him because He cares for us. God tells us time and time again throughout the Bible how valuable we are to Him. Sin stained sinners are important enough to God that He would send Jesus, His only begotten son, to Calvary to die a shameful, bloody death. Those who receive Christ as personal Lord and Savior are important enough to God that He lifts them out of the miry pit of sin, sets them on a solid rock and makes them a child of the King. He does not stop there He makes us joint-heirs with Christ, builds a whole new city, actually a whole new world, to live in and that is only the tip of the iceberg. This verse in particular says that “Our consolation aboundeth by Christ.” You see when we go through a trial, which will come, we can summons Christ for help and He will come to our side. He will exhort, admonish, encourage, console, comfort, and refresh us. In Christ we can find solace. “Why?” It is His nature He is “the Comforter”. He has sent the Holy Spirit also “the Comforter” to live in us, therefore we are NEVER comfortless. When you’re going through a tough spot remember 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 “3. Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort; 4 Who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God.” Now that’s A Promise to Ponder.

A Promise to Ponder Vol. 1, Issue 15

1 Corinthians 13: 13 - And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these is charity.

Faith – This is best defined in Hebrews 11:1- “Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.”

Hope – 2) expectation of good, hope, a) in the Christian sense, 1) joyful and confident expectation of eternal salvation, 3) on hope, in hope, having hope a) the author of hope, or he who is its foundation, b) the thing hoped for

Charity – 1) affection, good will, love, benevolence, brotherly love

   1 Corinthians 13:13 is the last verse in a very eye opening chapter. Throughout this chapter Paul makes it very evident that the Christian life is ALL about one thing, CHARITY/LOVE. Paul basically tells us that a Christian life lived only through “tradition”, or only “Going through the motions” is not a Christian, separated life. 1 Corinthians 13:1-3 tells us 1 Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal. 2 And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity, I am nothing. 3 And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, and have not charity, it profiteth me nothing. Paul then goes on to define love in the next few verses “4 Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up, 5 Doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil; 6 Rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth; 7 Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things. 8 Charity never faileth: but whether there be prophecies, they shall fail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away.” Then he tells us that many things will pass away “9 For we know in part, and we prophesy in part. 10 But when that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away. 11 When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but when I became a man, I put away childish things. 12 For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known.” Paul has now weeded out things that will vanish and he finishes with our verse for today. “13 And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these is charity.” While many things will change through this life there are three things that will not change faith, hope, and charity.

   Of these things Charity is the greatest. Why? Because without love we would not have anything to put our Faith in, nor would we have Hope. Look at these few verses. Romans 5:8 “But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” Ephesians 2:4 “But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us,” 1 John 4:7 “Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God.” 1 John 4:10 “He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love.” You see without God’s love we would not be capable of selfless love. Our Christian life is based wholly on love. We are to be like Christ so we are to LOVE others.

   What is the promise? It’s this; God will stop loving when God ceases to exist, our Hope is solid and our Faith is sure. Though things in this life change three constants you can depend on, Faith, Hope, and Love. Faith will comfort you through a trial, Hope gives you something to place your Faith in, and Love will get you through the trial because it is the greatest of the three.

A Promise to Ponder Vol. 1, Issue 14

1 Corinthians 13: 12 - For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known.

a glass – 1) a mirror, a) the mirrors of the ancients were made, not of glass, but steel

darkly – 1) an obscure saying, enigma, riddle, 2) an obscure thing

   Have you ever looked in a foggy mirror? How well were you able to see to comb your hair or, for girls, put make up on? My guess is that you probably couldn’t see very well. This is a picture of what this verse is saying. Right now, in this life, we cannot tell what will happen. We cannot say for certain that we will be somewhere at a certain time. Why? Because we don’t know 100% that we will not become ill, receive a call, or message that will drastically change our plans, get into a wreck, or be admitted into the hospital, or for that matter die. The Bible says in James 4:13 - 15 “13. Go to now, ye that say, To day or to morrow we will go into such a city, and continue there a year, and buy and sell, and get gain: 14. Whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away. 15. For that ye ought to say, If the Lord will, we shall live, and do this, or that.” You see this life is uncertain, it is like a foggy mirror while you may be able to see an outline you cannot see the details. There is only One who can see all the details and that’s Christ. This is why we must learn to depend on Him and trust Him in this life.

   The second portion of our verse states “but then face to face”. There is coming a day when all things will become clear. What do you do when you can’t see yourself in the foggy mirror? You wipe it off with a towel or a cloth of some type. When you do this all becomes clear and you now see yourself face to face, clearly. I’m sure you have heard the old saying “Hindsight is 20/20”, well when we reach Heaven we will understand the things of this life that we did not and will be able to focus completely on Christ. It is wonderful to me to know that though I don’t understand all that God is doing right now He knows exactly what is taking place and why. This means we don’t have to worry about the “why” to this life, only the “how”. We need not say “Why has this happened?” we can say “How can I serve God more effectively through this?” So, if there is something you have been trying to find out the “why” to, stop fretting and give it to God because He knows the “why”. “For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known.” Now that’s a Promise to Ponder.

A Promise to Ponder Vol. 1, Issue 13

1 Corinthians 12:13 - For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit.

   I will not give any definitions for this verse the words are easily understood. The concept in which I would like to bring out in this passage is that God is NOT racist, He has NO favorites, and He wants ALL to come to Him. It is a comfort to know that when a person comes to God He does not say “Oh, sorry you’re the wrong type of person.” The children’s song says it best “Jesus loves the little children all the children of the world, Red and Yellow, Black and White they are precious in His sight Jesus loves the little children of the world.” One type of person does not receive a partial portion of the Holy Spirit while the other gets all the Spirit. No, this is not true at all. The Bible, in this verse plainly teaches that it does not matter to God whether a person is Jew or Gentile, whether bond or free He makes us all the same. The Bible says in Colossians 3:11 “Where there is neither Greek nor Jew, circumcision nor uncircumcision, Barbarian, Scythian, bond nor free: but Christ is all, and in all.” Now that’s a Promise to Ponder!

A Promise to Ponder Vol. 1, Issue 12

Ephesians 2:10 - For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.

Workmanship - 1) that which has been made, 2) a work, a) of the works of God as creator

before ordained - 1) to prepare before, to make ready beforehand+

   In a society where everyone is all about, “What I think.” “What I’m doing.” “I am my own person.” And “With enough positive thinking I can do anything I want.” We hear a lot about self esteem, “IIII….” This is what the world is about. What is God about? Well…. We are told in the Bible in Phillipians 2:3 “3 Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves.” As we study the Bible we find two things are evident 1. Life is not about I, it’s about God. 2. Life is not about I it’s about others. Let’s focus on the first point; Life is not about I it’s about God.

   First we must see that we are God’s workmanship. We have not done anything on our own. Jesus said in John 15:5 that “…without me ye can do nothing.” Every breath is given by God to us. The strength we have to minister, work, and serve others is ALL given by God. Try as we may there is nothing in this life; including life itself; that God has not mercifully given us.

   Next we see that according to this verse we as Christians are created in Christ Jesus unto good works. While good works will not save you, it is part of God’s plan that we Christians serve others. Are we to act in our own interest? NO. This life is not at all about what I can gain, but what can I give. God will bless as we serve others first.

   Finally we can see in this verse that this has ALWAYS been God’s plan. It was before ordained that we should walk in them (good works). Why is good works so important to God if they do not take anyone to heaven? Because God knew from before time that it is good works that will bring glory to God. Jesus said in Matthew 5:16 “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” Good works are so important because it is by our works that others will see Christ in us. Because it is the nature of this flesh to do what is “best” for self, it truly makes people stop and consider what is different when a person does good works simply to help others. I have had people tell me before that everyone does nice things for others only because they want something in return. It was then I was able to point them to Christ. So, go out in the power of God and do good works, after all you as a Christian have been created for that purpose. Now there’s a promise to ponder.

A Promise to Ponder Vol. 1, Issue 11

Ephesians 2:9 - Not of works, lest any man should boast.

   Once again no definitions are needed for this verse. I do not know of a more clear verse in the Bible. I hear people all the time say that they have been good people and that they should make it to heaven. This verse states that there is NOTHING we can do to earn our way to heaven.

   The first three words of this verse tell what he is saying, the last five tell us why. We cannot work our way to heaven because it would give cause to say, “Look at what I did! I’m such a good person.” or it would give cause to say, “Wow! that’s all you did. Man I was much better than you I bet I’ll have a bigger mansion.” This is called boasting. Boasting is a sin, God is sinless and will not, nor can He by His nature, allow sin in His presence. So this fact alone makes it impossible to earn our way to Heaven where God lives. Think about it for a second, we work our way to heaven and are able to boast; which is sin remember; about all we have done to get there, God comes over and says “I’m sorry but I cannot allow sin into Heaven and because you have sinned you must be forever thrown into Hell. You were good on Earth but now you messed up.”

   So what’s the promise? We don’t have to bear the burden of earning our way to Heaven, it’s paid. WOW! A free trip to live with Almighty God in Heaven and all we have to do is place our faith in Jesus to take us there. I must admit I definitely like God’s plan better than my own. Here God puts it in black and white we are not responsible for Heaven God is, and guess what, He is and has been faithful enough to hold up His end of the bargain. Now that’s a Promise to Ponder!

Promise to Ponder Vol. 1 Issue 10

Ephesians 2:8 - For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God:

   I will not put any “Definitions” today because we have already looked at grace. As for Faith it is defined for us in Hebrews 11:1 - Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.

  

   This verse has caused some misunderstandings among some Christians. I have personally heard this verse taught two different ways. 1. I have heard that Faith is not of ourselves, it is a gift from God. Therefore one can only be saved if God gives that person the needed faith for salvation. 2. I have also heard that Grace is not of ourselves, it is a gift from God. Therefore we must place our faith in Christ and His grace, which is not of ourselves, but a gift from God is given to us. I will tell you that I personally adhere to the second way of thinking. I will not go into that discussion in length I only want you to know where I stand and where I am coming from. That being said let’s take a look at this verse.

 

   Does anyone deserve to be saved? Does anyone deserve Heaven? The answer to these questions is, no. We do deserve death because of our sin. We do deserve hell because we have all sinned. It has always amazed me how people get upset at God because something didn’t happen the way they wanted or they didn’t get what they felt they deserved. When this happens many people will become bitter and say God is not just or loving how could a just and loving God let….happen. (You fill in the blank) The fact is, because of God’s justice sin must be paid for. Rom 6:23 says “The wages of sin is death…” Death is the only payment acceptable for our sin. This is hell/ separation from God. This is just. However God stepped in and shows His love, Romans 6:23 finishes by saying “…But the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.” This is God’s love and grace. Grace – Receiving what we don’t deserve. We DON’T deserve eternal Life, yet God’s grace says here take it, it is a gift to you. A murderer does not deserve to be let go, but grace is when the victim’s father comes to the murder, pays his penalty, then dresses him in the finest linen and takes him to be his son, adopts him and makes him part of the family. That is grace. WHAT!? It’s unthinkable that someone would do something like that. I know, however the truth is, it has been done already. We are the murderer, our sin is the reason that Jesus Christ died on the cross. Our sins murdered Him. ( yet He laid down His own life) God’s grace steps in and says in Rom 8:15-17 – “15 … but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father. 16 The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God: 17 And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together.” Now that’s grace, not of ourselves. It is not possible for anyone to show grace to themselves grace is only shown to others. All we have to do to receive this gift is place our faith in the finished work of Christ. Now that’s a Promise to Ponder!

A Promise to Ponder Vol. 1, Issue 9

Ephesians 2:7- That in the ages to come he might shew the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus.

ages to come - 1) for ever, an unbroken age, perpetuity of time, eternity, 2) the worlds, universe, 3) period of time, age

Exceeding - 1) to surpass in throwing, to throw over or beyond anything, 2) to transcend, surpass, exceed, excel, 3) excelling, exceeding

    If you were to look closely at Ephesians 2:1-7 you would notice that it is two sentences, according to the punctuation. The 1st sentence takes place in verses 1- 3. This sentence describes who we were before we were made alive to God. Verses 4-6 make up the second sentence which describes what GOD has done for us. At this point we are left asking “Why would God show us such kindness?” God answers this question in today’s verse. He wants to show His grace throughout eternity! He wants to show us off for all eternity and say “Look what I can do and behold my grace.” You may think this sounds selfish of God, however I will tell you that I never have minded when put on a pedestal, and if you’re honest you probably haven’t either. We become God’s “prized possession”, His trophy of grace. As God's trophy you be sure that God will take very good care of you. He keeps His trophies polished and shiny. How great is that!

    God quickens us so He can show His EXCEEDING riches of His grace. We are told that God is rich in mercy in verse 4 and here we are told He is exceedingly rich in grace. Isn’t it good to know that the God you serve, as a Christian, is rich in more than money? He is rich in mercy and grace. Has God not been good to us? He took us as we were, filthy, unclean, servants of the Devil, and were the children of wrath(vss1-3), then He bestowed His great Mercy and grace with which He is rich in both, cleaned us off through the blood of Jesus Christ, and has put us on “display” before all the universe and spiritual world for all eternity. What a great God!

A Promise to Ponder Volume 1, issue 8

Ephesians 2:6- And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus:


raised us up together – 1) to raise together, to cause to raise together, 2) to raise up together from mortal death to a new and blessed life dedicated to God

made us sit together - 1) to cause to sit down together, place together, 2) to sit down together

heavenly - 1) existing in heaven, a) things that take place in heaven, b) the heavenly regions , 1) heaven itself, the abode of God and angels, 2) the lower heavens, of the stars, 3) the heavens, of the clouds, c) the heavenly temple or sanctuary, 2) of heavenly origin or nature

    When I was growing up there was a word that made me either feel happy or sad, depending on how it was used. That word is used in this verse as well. The word? And. I know… I can hear you asking, WHAT ARE YOU TALKING ABOUT? When I was child I had to do chores. MY mom would say “Caleb, you need to clean your room and wash the dishes and sweep the floor and mop the kitchen floor and when you’re done with that, don’t forget to do your homework.” Yes the word AND could make me feel sad. At times my mom could take the same word and make me very happy sometimes she would say “When you get done with your work we will go to the store and then we will go to the park and cook out and we will play games.”

Ah, yes the little word and gets ignored so many times, yet it is very important. The same is true in this verse as well as in verses 1and 5. Let’s take a look at this word and see what all God has done for us. We will start in verse 1 of this chapter.

• you hath he quickened vs. 1

• hath quickened us together with Christ vs. 5

• (by grace ye are saved;) vs. 5

• And hath raised us up together vs.6

• and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus: vs.6

Why did God do this for us? No other reason than He is rich in mercy (vs. 4), He has great love (vs.4), and He has great grace (vs.5).

I just cannot get over the fact that, though we were in sin running from God; He STILL did all this for us! He has taken us and set us WITH Christ in Heavenly places! In other words our seats are forever reserved for us by Christ. We’re as good as there in Heaven. Our seat with Christ in Heaven has already been paid for and reserved for us, Christ is simply “keeping it warm” for us. If you are a Christian your name is written down and “the card” reads reserved forever, paid for in blood, and signed by the King of kings. Now that’s a Promise to Ponder.

A Promise to Ponder Vol. 1, Issue 7

Ephesians 2:5 - Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;)

dead - 2) metaph. a) spiritually dead 1) destitute of a life that recognises and is devoted to God, because given up to trespasses and sins 2) inactive as respects doing right b) destitute of force or power, inactive, inoperative.

hath quickened us together with Christ - 1) to make one alive together, a) of Christians, with Christ

by grace - 2) good will, loving-kindness, favour a) of the merciful kindness by which God, exerting his holy influence upon souls, turns them to Christ, keeps, strengthens, increases them in Christian faith, knowledge, affection, and kindles them to the exercise of the Christian virtues

      I would like to take verses 4 - 5 and break them down the following way:

Ephesians 2:4 – 5

But God, who is rich in mercy, - We have already discussed God’s rich mercies, but it is still good to see it again in black and white isn’t it?

for his great love wherewith he loved us, Even when we were dead in sins, - Not only does He have love for us, He has GREAT love for us. He has so much love for us that He loved us even though we were dead to God in our sins. Here’s another great verse for this, Romans 5:8 - But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.

hath quickened us together with Christ, - God has made us ALIVE to Him and DEAD to sin. We are made alive TOGETHER WITH CHRIST. Praise God we are alive just as Christ is alive…FOREVER!!!

(by grace ye are saved;) – We cannot work for our salvation it is given to us through God’s great Mercy and Grace.

        I have noticed one thing in these verses. God’s Great Love, Mercy, and Grace all go hand in hand. Because God has great love he shows mercy , not giving us what we Do deserve…Hell, and in turn by extending His mercy He then bestows His grace, giving us what we DO NOT deserve…Salvation, Eternal Life, Heaven, Christ, and too much more to mention here. Now there’s a Promise to Ponder!

A Promise to Ponder Volume 1 Issue 6

Ephesians 2:4 - But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us,


If you had to choose your favorite phrase in this verse, what would it be? My favorite phrase in this verse would have to be…. But God. Why? Because look according to Ephesians 2:2-3 in times PAST we

• walked according to the course of this world,

• walked according to the prince of the power of the air (SATAN), the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience:

• we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh

• fulfilling the desires of the flesh

• fulfilling the desires of the mind

• were by nature the children of wrath

This is NOT a pretty picture. When we read this we see the true state of a lost person. Which, if you are a Christian you were. I must admit that I am very grateful that these verses are not the end. BUT GOD… We were reprobates…. BUT GOD; We were helpless…. BUT GOD; We were hopeless…. BUT GOD; We were destined to spend eternity in a real literal place called Hell, where there is fire and brimstone, the worm dieth not, eternal darkness, eternal suffering…. BUT GOD!!! Stepped in the picture, flooded us with His bountiful mercies, and shared His great love.

I am very comforted to know that God is RICH in mercies. God will not run out of mercy any time soon. God told us in the psalms 136 that his mercy endureth for ever. The fact is that this one chapter repeats this phrase in the King James 26 times, don’t trust me read it for yourself it’s amazing. A simple definition of Mercy is not getting what we do deserve. We deserve Hell, but because of God’s richness in mercy we don’t have to go there. We deserve death, but because of God’s richness in mercy He gives us life. I good news for us, God’s mercy, though being bestowed on mankind for thousands of years, is not even close to being drained. Unlike our economy God has NO deficit in Mercy. Ponder on that Promise today and be blessed.

A Promise to Ponder Vol1 Issue 5

Ephesians 2:1 - And you [hath he quickened], who were dead in trespasses and sins;


Quickened - to revive; restore life to (from Dictionary.com)

   I believe that the word quickened is the key word in this verse. Everything else in this verse either relates to this word or is affected by the word. What makes this word great in this verse is the meaning- to revive; restore life to. Mankind, while in the Garden of Eden before the fall, was alive to God. Once sin entered into the world through the act of the willing disobedience of man, we became DEAD to God. This verse proclaims that it is no longer necessary to remain dead. He CAN and WILL quicken you. Those who are believers HAVE BEEN quickened.

   If there were a word that would overshadow quicken it would be; he. While quicken certainly is a focal point in the verse what’s more important is who does the quickening. He, God Almighty, does the quickening. The Bible tells us In John 15:5 “…without me ye can do nothing.” We are helpless. We, in our sin, are dead. A dead person is unresponsive, cold, hard, only moved by the power of an outside force, and cannot do ANYTHING on his/her own. This is the state that we as sinners are in. However….. “But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” Romans 5:8. Christ died so we can live!!! What a Savoir, what a God. He rose from the dead so we can live eternalyy! He has conquored DEATH therefore He has the power to quicken us. Go ahead and shout a little……. Ponder THAT Promise and rejoice because you, if a Christian, are ALIVE!!!

Promise to Ponder Vol. 1 Issue 4

Ephesians 1:14 - Which is the earnest of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, unto the praise of his glory.

Earnest - a) money which in purchases is given as a pledge or down payment that the full amount will subsequently be paid

Inheritance - 1) an inheritance, property received (or to be received) by inheritance, 2) what is given to one as a possession, a) the eternal blessedness of the consummated kingdom of God which is to be expected after the visible return of Christ, b) the share which an individual will have in that eternal blessedness

    Earnest money deposits separate the men from the boys when it comes to evaluating potential buyers. In essence, this is where you see both how credible and serious the potential buyer is regarding your property. It is both a statement of their liquidity and their knowledge of the process.

   Once you have agreed on a percentage, the buyer should deposit the earnest money deposit with a third party. The party can be the escrow agent, an attorney or even a bank in certain states. If the transaction goes smoothly, the deposit is credited as part of the down payment on the home when the transaction closes. Ah, but what if it does not go smoothly?

   The earnest money deposit can be forfeited to the seller in certain situations. Ostensibly, the particular situations are governed by what the parties agree to in writing and state law. In general, the buyer will get their money back if the deal falls apart because of a seller issue such as massive termite problems that were not identified by the seller before the offer was made. In turn, the buyer can lose the deposit amount if they simply refuse to go forward with the transaction. In some real estate contracts, this process is known as liquidated damages automatically awarded to the seller given the fact you wasted time with the buyer and had your property off the market.

   All and all, earnest money deposits should be looked at as back up protection. (information from fsboamerica.org)

WOW!!! What do I say? 1. God is Serious about giving us our inheritance! 2. The Holy Spirit is the third party, He protects the investment. He lives in me! 3. Jesus has already gone all the way!!

What a promise that we are GUARENTEED an inheritance because the Holy Spirit dwells in us. We will NEVER lose that inheritance. The Holy Spirit guides us down the right path, toward home, so we can claim the inheritance God has given us as Christians.

Promise to Ponder Vol.1 Issue 3

Ephesians 1:13 - In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise,


sealed with - to set a seal upon, mark with a seal, to seal; for security: from Satan; since things sealed up are concealed (as the contents of a letter), to hide, keep in silence, keep secret; in order to mark a person or a thing; to set a mark upon by the impress of a seal or a stamp; in order to prove, confirm, or attest a thing; to confirm authenticate, place beyond doubt 1d; of a written document 1d; to prove one's testimony to a person that he is what he professes to be

Promise - Announcement; promise; the act of promising, a promise given or to be given; a promised good or blessing

       Let us take a quick look at the first part of the verse before we move to the promise I want to emphasize. The first thing we notice as we look at this verse is that it is AFTER the hearing of the Word that salvation comes. We cannot just live a good life and hope someone will ask us. We MUST tell/proclaim the Word so that others can HEAR. 1 Corinthians 1:18 says: For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God. Rom 10:14 says: How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher? We must be willing to tell others.

      The last portion of this verse teaches ETERNAL SECURITY. Praise God I’m sealed! The word sealed here means to seal; for security. When a person receives Christ as personal Lord and Savior Satan wants nothing more than to destroy that person. The problem Satan runs into is that we as Christians are sealed with that holy Spirit of promise. The question I ask is, “Who is more powerful God the Holy Spirit or Satan?” God is more powerful! Satan cannot touch my eternal destination. He can make me stumble and fall, but NEVER so far that I would need to be resaved otherwise Satan is more powerful than God. There is so much to say about this promise I dare not try to share everything, instead I will only say, “Rejoice, O Christian, you are saved, sealed, and secure in God’s arms. If you stumble use 1 John 1:9 and get back up, no need to stay defeated. You are sealed for security against Satan.” PRAISE GOD!!!!

Promise to Ponder Vol. 1 Issue 2

Ephesians 1:11-12 - …being predestinated according to the purpose of him who worketh all things after the counsel of his own will: 12 That we should be to the praise of his glory, who first trusted in Christ.

predestinated - to predetermine, decide beforehand, in the NT of God decreeing from eternity, to foreordain, appoint beforehand

purpose - a setting forth of a thing, placing of it in view

worketh - to be operative, be at work, put forth power - to work for one, aid one - to effect, to display one's activity, show one's self operative

counsel - counsel, purpose

will - what one wishes or has determined shall be done - of the purpose of God to bless mankind through Christ - of what God wishes to be done by us - commands, precepts - will, choice, inclination, desire, pleasure

praise - approbation, commendation, praise

approbation – 1. Approval; commendation 2. Official approval or sanction.

Glory - opinion, estimate, whether good or bad concerning someone; in the NT always a good opinion concerning one, resulting in praise, honour, and glory magnificence, excellence, preeminence, dignity, grace; majesty; a thing belonging to God; the kingly majesty which belongs to him as supreme ruler, majesty in the sense of the absolute perfection of the deity a thing belonging to Christ; the kingly majesty of the Messiah; the absolutely perfect inward or personal excellency of Christ; the majesty, a most glorious condition, most exalted state, of that condition with God the Father in heaven to which Christ was raised after he had achieved his work on earth

These verses are incredible! To put it simply, God determined, before there was time, that those who place their trust in Him, would be given strength from Him to live up to the name we were given; Christian. Jesus says if I be lifted up I will draw all men unto me. God made it the purpose of Christians to live like Christ, thus lifting Him up. If you tell someone you are a Christian then swear, drink, or participate in other sinful acts along with the world, what that tell them? It leaves the false impression that Christianity, Christians, and Christ are no different from other religions, instead of what it truly is, a relationship. The word praise in verse 11, according to the Strong’s Concordance, means approbation, commendation, praise. Our lives are to leave a GOOD taste of Christ in others! The word glory in the Strong’s Concordance means in the NT always a good opinion concerning one. We, as Christians are to leave a GOOD impression of Christ. A question to ponder, “Do I, as a Christian, when someone does something I don’t like on the road, in the store, or at the gas station, leave a good impression of Christ?” The promise in this verse is, we as Christians don’t have to try, in our own power to live up to our name. Instead it was predestined by Him who worketh meaning put forth power, to display one's activity, show one's self operative. Who exactly is He that worketh? It is Jesus Christ Himself and no one else. It is empowering to know that the God of the universe bestows upon us His name and gives us the necessary strength to carry out His predestinated will!!!

A Promise to Ponder Vol. 1 Issue 1

Ephesians 1:11 - In whom also we have obtained an inheritance…


Obtained – verb (used with object)

1. to come into possession of; get, acquire, or procure, as through an effort or by a request: to obtain permission; to obtain a better income.

Inheritance - a heritage, private possession.

         Take a close look at this promise, any particular word jump out? If any did it probably wasn’t “also” was it. This word, however, is actually very important. What does the word “also” mean? It is adding to a list, for example, when you tell your kids to do something you will often say “Take out the trash, clean your room and “also” don’t forget to clean the kitchen.” When you say the word “also” you have added to the list, so what does this mean to us in this verse? This means that this “obtained…inheritance” has been added to a list. You may not see the list at first glance, I didn’t. The list begins in verse seven of this same chapter which says “7. In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace;” This verse along with our verse for today is saying that in Christ we “have redemption through his blood…the forgiveness of sins…also we have obtained an inheritance.” What a list!!! All of this Christ has given us, the question becomes what have we given Him? We have given Him our sin, heartaches, and burdens just to name a few things that we have given Him. Is this a fair trade? No, and aren’t you glad! This promise of an inheritance, along with everything else, makes me want to serve Him better. Thank God that We can because He has also given us power! What a promise!

Miracle Morning Ministries

Miracle Morning Ministries was started in 2004. We strive to encourage church planters by coming along sidethem and help them bear some of the burdens they bear. We also hold evangelistic crusades for children, teens, and adults. We are currently asking God to fill our 2010 calander.