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25
Oct '24

Resurrection of the Saints

Posted on Oct 25, 2024 in Devotions |

25
Oct '24

Introduction: Guess how old the CHRISTians were in the Church of Thessalonica when Paul, under the inspiration of the Holy Ghost, wrote his letter? You say, ten years? Twenty? Thirty? Wrong. Try THREE weeks old!! What is the “big deal”? If you read the five chapters, you will discover every one has the doctrine (teaching) of Jesus Christ’s return.

For instance,

1. From Idolatry to Expectancy! (1 Thess 1:9,10) – “….and how ye turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God; and to wait for his Son from heaven, whom he raised from the dead, even Jesus, which delivered us from the wrath to come.”
 
The word “wait” is ἀναμένω (an-am-en’-o), which means to await. It has to do with one whose coming is expected. This writer remembers “waiting” for our grandparents to come for Christmas. We anticipated they would be there. We kept looking for them. When they didn’t show up in the morning, we looked forward to seeing them later that day. The feeling was fabulous! Today we are looking for Jesus in the same way!!
 
2. See You Now and See You Later! (1 Thess 2:19) – “For what is our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing? Are not even ye in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at his coming?”
 
This crown of rejoicing will be rewarded at the Judgment Seat of Christ. Chronologically speaking, that will take place after we “meet Him in the air” with the saints that have gone on before us.
 

3. Love Outward, Looking Upward! (1 Thess 3:12,13) – “And the Lord make you to increase and abound in love one toward another, and toward all men, even as we do toward you: 13 To the end he may stablish your hearts unblameable in holiness before God, even our Father, at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ with all his saints.”

Love is the key; it is the hallmark of the believer. First, we experience love upward, and then we have the capacity to love outward. Do you love the saints?
 
4. Down from Heaven, Going Up to Heaven! (1 Thess 4:16-18) – “For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord. Wherefore comfort one another with these words.”
 
This famous, often quoted passage refers to the rapture of the Church. The phrase “caught up” is translated as meaning “snatched away.” Jesus Christ will come and sweep His bride away only to take her to His Father’s house (John 14:1-3). While there—in heaven—the consummation of the marriage will take place, followed by the marriage supper.
 

5. Suddenly and Unexpectedly, the Day of the Lord! (1 Thess 5:2) – “For yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night.”

Actually, the Day of the Lord will follow the rapture of the Church. A pseudo “peace plan” will be put in place, led by the Antichrist. Pretending to be Israel’s keeper/protector, his true colors will come out midway through the tribulation.
 
Conclusion: As we have revealed, this epistle is loaded with eschatological (end-time) teaching. Some of it is for here and now, while some of it is for the hereafter. Both need to be taught, but more specifically applied to our life until we see Jesus.
 

Love y’all,
Pastor Randy Reese

 

24
Oct '24

Midnight Jailhouse Rock

Posted on Oct 24, 2024 in Devotions |

24
Oct '24

Introduction: Imagine getting beaten with rods for obeying God! Obedience often comes with a price tag. But in the grand scheme of things, serving the One who gave His all for us makes it well worth it. Remember, there is a high cost for low living.

Follow with this writer the narrative found in the founding of the Church of Philippi.
 
1. The perpetrated lies of greedy thieves lit the fires of persecution! (Acts 16:19-21) – “19 And when her masters saw that the hope of their gains was gone, they caught Paul and Silas, and drew them into the marketplace unto the rulers, 20 And brought them to the magistrates, saying, These men, being Jews, do exceedingly trouble our city, 21 And teach customs, which are not lawful for us to receive, neither to observe, being Romans.”
 
Did you catch that? These wicked men were more concerned with money than a human life. Sound familiar? We can expect more of that as sin abounds, but at the same time, that makes our mission field more desperate. Go and tell.
 
2. The Word of God was being fulfilled! Jesus told Paul that he would suffer. (Acts 9:16) – “For I will shew him how great things he must suffer for my name’s sake.”
 
Suffering with Jesus Christ comes with the territory (see 1 Pet 2:21-24). (Acts 16:22-24) – “And the multitude rose up together against them: and the magistrates rent off their clothes, and commanded to beat them. 23 And when they had laid many stripes upon them, they cast them into prison, charging the jailor to keep them safely: 24 Who, having received such a charge, thrust them into the inner prison, and made their feet fast in the stocks.”
 
After beating (whipping) them, they threw them into prison. Interesting to note, the word “stocks” is ξύλον (xoo’-lon), which is wood, a club, or staff; it can even mean the trunk of a tree. When was the last time you were beaten and fastened in wooden shackles? It wasn’t a party. But God was at work—a cross turned into a crown.
 
3. The Testimony of followers of Jesus facing undeserved hardships! (Acts 16:25-30) – “And at midnight Paul and Silas prayed, and sang praises unto God: and the prisoners heard them. 26 And suddenly there was a great earthquake, so that the foundations of the prison were shaken: and immediately all the doors were opened, and every one’s bands were loosed. 27 And the keeper of the prison awaking out of his sleep, and seeing the prison doors open, he drew out his sword, and would have killed himself, supposing that the prisoners had been fled. 28 But Paul cried with a loud voice, saying, Do thyself no harm: for we are all here. 29 Then he called for a light, and sprang in, and came trembling, and fell down before Paul and Silas, 30 And brought them out, and said, Sirs, what must I do to be saved?”
 
Instead of WHINING, Paul and Silas were SHINING! Holy Ghost Conviction fell, and a hell-bound sinner who was a prison guard was gloriously saved by the grace of God.
 
Conclusion:(Acts 16:31-34) – “And they said, Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved, and thy house. 32 And they spake unto him the word of the Lord, and to all that were in his house. 33 And he took them the same hour of the night, and washed their stripes; and was baptized, he and all his, straightway. 34 And when he had brought them into his house, he set meat before them, and rejoiced, believing in God with all his house.”
 
What a great outcome of a bad situation! Our Lord works in mysterious ways!!
 
Love y’all,
Pastor Randy Reese

23
Oct '24

Charter Members of the Philippian Church

Posted on Oct 23, 2024 in Devotions |

23
Oct '24

Introduction: A business lady and her family all became some of the first converts of Philippi. Quite an interesting variety, isn’t it? But that is the way Jesus Christ builds His Church—humble servants instead of proud Pharisees.

A closer investigation reveals this unique situation.

1. Lydia (Acts 16:13) – “And on the sabbath we went out of the city by a riverside, where prayer was wont to be made; and we sat down, and spake unto the women which resorted thither.”
 
Perhaps the prayer burden on the women’s hearts was really their concern for their families—more than likely. Or maybe it was the great spiritual needs in that city. At any rate, our Lord heard their cry. He led Paul and his mission team to their place of worship. Someone has rightfully stated that when God is up to a work, He puts His people to praying. Are you praying?
 

2. Lydia and her household (Acts 16:14, 15) – “And a certain woman named Lydia, a seller of purple, of the city of Thyatira, which worshipped God, heard us: whose heart the Lord opened, that she attended unto the things which were spoken of Paul. And when she was baptized, and her household, she besought us, saying, If ye have judged me to be faithful to the Lord, come into my house, and abide there. And she constrained us.”

Did you notice that first she heard the Word of God? And faith in Jesus was the result as God the Holy Spirit opened her heart. Plus, she was obedient in following through with her baptism along with her household. That is what you call “Household Salvation”! Have you been baptized after your true conversion?

Conclusion: Are you willing to obey the Lord’s prompting? Will you be led by His Spirit? Are you prepared to share Jesus with those who are searching? If so, we can expect to see “Great & Mighty Things” in numerous families—all for His Glory!

Love y’all,
Pastor Randy Reese


22
Oct '24

Time to Wake Up

Posted on Oct 22, 2024 in Devotions |

22
Oct '24
Introduction: Do you get sleepy? How about spiritually sleepy? It is hard to stay AWAKE in a sleepy world. So how can we?
 
First, consider what the Scriptures teach concerning staying AWAKE.
 
1. It is a Late Hour! (Rom 13:11) – “And that, knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep: for now is our salvation nearer than when we believed.”
 
Even the scientists who are secularists recognize that the world is about to strike midnight—the doomsday clock. Compared to 10, 20, or 30 years ago, it is a late hour. Look at what is happening in America! Stay AWAKE!! Where are we headed?
 

2. It is a Sinful world! (1 Cor 15:34) – “Awake to righteousness, and sin not; for some have not the knowledge of God: I speak this to your shame.”

It seems like more and more people are following the devil. Millions are duped and deceived. As a Christian, you have the light! Jesus is the Light (John 8:12)!! With His light, we can light up the world with the truth of His Word. Go light your world!
 
3. It is a Sleepy time of False Peace & Safety! (1 Thess 5:2-6) – “For yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night. For when they shall say, Peace and safety; then sudden destruction cometh upon them, as travail upon a woman with child; and they shall not escape. But ye, brethren, are not in darkness, that that day should overtake you as a thief. Ye are all the children of light, and the children of the day: we are not of the night, nor of darkness. Therefore let us not sleep, as do others; but let us watch and be sober.”
 
Writing concerning the “day of the Lord,” Paul reminds the Church that we should not be in darkness. Instead, we are to Stay AWAKE! Why? Because the “day of the Lord” has not arrived but is coming very soon. While others are asleep, we are to remain vigilant. Are you AWAKE?
 
Conclusion: It is time to WAKE UP! Many need Jesus. Time is running out.
 
Love y’all,
Pastor Randy Reese

21
Oct '24

Something out of Nothing

Posted on Oct 21, 2024 in Devotions |

21
Oct '24
Introduction: Gen 1:1 explains it all! God “created” something out of nothing: TIME, SPACE, MATTER… Throughout the centuries, scientists have tried to figure out how God did it, but to no avail.
 
Why? Take a look at the book.
 

1. When? In Eternity Past! (Gen 1:1) – “In the beginning…”

Before time began, God was there. He is eternal; that is one of His attributes. He has no beginning and no ending. The word for God is אלהים (el-o-heem’), which means supreme being. There’s no God like our God!
 
2. How? “Created”! (Gen 1:1) – “In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth.”
 
The word “created” is בָּרָה (baw-raw’), which means to shape or create. Literally, this word indicates to take nothing and bring into being something.
 

3. Why? For His Glory! (Gen 1:1) – “In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth.”

Paul wrote (Col 1:16) – “For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him.”
 
Therefore, God wants to have a relationship with His creation. That is why Jesus Christ came to live without sin and die for our sins, that we might be forgiven and reconciled to Him. Furthermore, after rising from the grave, He went to prepare a place for us in heaven.
 
Conclusion: This tells us that our God in whom we worship (Jesus Christ) not only created it all, but He holds it all together. Bottom line: Since that is true, it means we can TRUST Him with our eternal future as well as our present circumstances. Are you trusting Him?
 

Love y’all,
Pastor Randy Reese


18
Oct '24

In the Midst of the Storm

Posted on Oct 18, 2024 in Devotions |

18
Oct '24

Introduction: Jesus is there. In the midst of the storms, Jesus appears. Are you going through a storm? Where do you turn when you are afraid? When things get out of our control, we panic! But really, what should our response be?

Let’s see.

1. Jesus shows up at the right time! (Matt 14:24, 25) – “But the ship was now in the midst of the sea, tossed with waves: for the wind was contrary…. And in the fourth watch of the night, Jesus went unto them, walking on the sea.”

Did you notice in the text that not only did Jesus instruct His disciples to get in a boat and to go to the other side, but also, after praying, He shows up by walking on the water? He who made the water (Gen 1, 2) ought to be able to walk on it as well as control the wind and waves. He will do that for you!

2. Sometimes in a storm, we do not recognize Jesus! (Matt 14:26) – “And when the disciples saw him walking on the sea, they were troubled, saying, It is a spirit; and they cried out for fear.”
 
Our human emotions kick in when we are afraid. Often we think the worst. What about you? Are you facing fear? Remember: fight your fear, but feed your faith.
 
3. When we are in a storm, Jesus reassures us not to be afraid! (Matt 14:27) – “But straightway Jesus spake unto them, saying, Be of good cheer; it is I; be not afraid.”

Since Jesus Christ walks with us in the storm, then be of good cheer. Why? Because He said so!

Conclusion: After our Lord walks with us through the storms of life, our faith in Him is strengthened, and our testimony because of Him is built to share… all for His glory.

Love y’all,
Pastor Randy Reese


17
Oct '24

1 + 1 = 2

Posted on Oct 17, 2024 in Devotions |

17
Oct '24
Introduction: Since 1 + 1 = 2, our POSITION in Jesus + our CONDITION in Jesus = our PROTECTION in Jesus! This is the book of Ephesians in a nutshell.
 
Please read all the Scriptures.
 
1. Check out Our POSITION in Jesus! (Eph 1:3–6) – “3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ; 4 According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love. Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will, 6 To the praise of the glory of his grace, wherein he hath made us accepted in the beloved….”
 
Did you notice the key words? “Blessed, Chosen, Predestined, Adopted, Accepted,” etc.
 
(Eph 1:7–14) – “In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace; 8 Wherein he hath abounded toward us in all wisdom and prudence. Having made known unto us the mystery of his will, according to his good pleasure which he hath purposed in himself; 10 That in the dispensation of the fulness of times he might gather together in one all things in Christ, both which are in heaven, and which are on earth; even in him; 11 In whom also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestinated according to the purpose of him who worketh all things after the counsel of his own will.”
 
Did you notice the words in verse 11? “Inheritance, counsel, His will”? All of these speak of our POSITION in Jesus Christ.
 

2. Check out our CONDITION in Jesus! (Eph 2–5)

For time and space, let’s summarize:

  • Raised from being dead spiritually
  • Quickened – made alive – in Jesus
  • Good works should result because of our POSITION
  • As Gentiles, brought into the family of God – Jesus the chief cornerstone
  • Unified by the Spirit
  • Forgiven and forgiving
  • Walking in love
  • Turning from evil
  • Making a difference in our family
 

Conclusion: Finally, our POSITION affects our CONDITION, which brings us PROTECTION in Jesus.

  • Clothed with all the armor of God (Eph 6:10–18)
  • Praying and serving
 
Do you agree 1 + 1 = Jesus?
 
Love y’all,
Pastor Randy Reese
 

16
Oct '24

Is Jesus in Control?

Posted on Oct 16, 2024 in Devotions |

16
Oct '24
Introduction: Floods, hurricanes, and tornadoes are leaving devastation in Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, and Tennessee, ravaging homes and businesses and taking human lives as they go. Meanwhile, wars in the Middle East, Ukraine, and other countries abroad are leaving much bloodshed and destruction. One research survey indicated that 70% of Americans believe that we are on the brink of WWIII. In fact, the Speaker of the House, Mike Johnson, declared the same. Since all of this is happening, is Jesus really in control? During a time of political instability and economic uncertainty, where can we find PEACE and SECURITY?
 
While the world is changing, the Lord Jesus Christ, along with the Word of God, stays the same; that is an anchor for the soul!
 
1. Is the World Coming to an End? (2 Pet 3:10-14) – Peter was an old man when he was inspired to write about a “more sure word of prophecy” (2 Pet 1:16-19). Next, he gives some insight as to how this world is going to end; i.e., it’s going up in fire! (2 Pet 3:10) – “But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat; the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up.”

However, according to John’s writing in the book of Revelation, God is going to recreate a NEW EARTH. (Rev 21:1) – “And I saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away; and there was no more sea.”

Keep in mind this is not the NEW JERUSALEM, which will be approximately 1500 miles x 1500 miles in a cube shape. Can you imagine? So, man is not going to end the world; instead, Jesus Christ is going to bring His will and Word to pass.

2. Are these the “SIGNS of the TIME”? (Luke 21:24) – Remember what Jesus said in the Olivet Discourse concerning the “SIGNS of the TIME”? Technically speaking, this will be during the tribulation, which will last seven years, according to Daniel’s writing (Dan 9:27). Note, while some of these SIGNS are going on today; i.e., wars and rumors of wars, pestilences, earthquakes, false Christs, and deception, all of these are PRECURSORS for what is yet to come. Jesus said, “And there shall be signs in the sun, and in the moon, and in the stars; and upon the earth distress of nations, with perplexity; the sea and the waves roaring.” (Luke 21:25) His next statement is shocking. (Luke 21:26) – “Men’s hearts failing them for fear, and for looking after those things which are coming on the earth: for the powers of heaven shall be shaken.”

The word “failing” pictures a person bent over, gasping for air. Do you feel hopeless? Does our world seem like it’s heading for a crash? In spite of our feelings, Jesus is still on His THRONE! Will you trust Him?
 
3. Is God the Holy Spirit speaking during these days? (Heb 12:26, 27) Honestly, there is no doubt that things are being SHAKEN! Yet, the Bible is continually being fulfilled. Listen to the Word: “Whose voice then shook the earth: but now he hath promised, saying, Yet once more I shake not the earth only, but also heaven. And this word, Yet once more, signifieth the removing of those things that are shaken, as of things that are made, that those things which cannot be shaken may remain.”
 
In other words, Jesus is going to SHAKE both the heavens and earth. People are losing it. Between anxiety and fear, as well as more uncertainty and instability, things will escalate out of control like we are seeing. That is all the more reason to get anchored in a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Have you ever really repented (change of mind) of your sins and asked Jesus to forgive you? You see, He lived without sin, and therefore He could take our place to die but ultimately rise again. But that is not all. He has PROMISED to be with us through this life until we see Him in heaven.
 
Conclusion: What PEACE and COMFORT that brings to our hearts in a troubled world! With this world spinning out of control, it is great to have that ASSURANCE that Jesus Christ is in CONTROL! Why not let Him take CONTROL?
 
Love y’all,
Pastor Randy Reese

15
Oct '24

Settled from being Shaken

Posted on Oct 15, 2024 in Devotions |

15
Oct '24
Introduction: It seems like people are on edge right now with the hurricanes heading to our shores, wars raging abroad and instability in the election upcoming. So how can we as God’s people remain unshaken? Although we cannot stop the upheaval events from happening, we can stand steadfast in our FAITH in Jesus!
 
Here is a wonderful passage relating to how to do that.
 
1. Where is our CONFIDENCE ? (Heb 10:35,36) – “Cast not away therefore your confidence, which hath great recompence of reward. For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise.”
 
That’s it! When we lose our confidence in the sovereignty of a living God we are destined to be shaken. Are you being shaken?
 
2. What is it that we desperately need? (Heb 10:35,36) – “Cast not away therefore your confidence, which hath great recompence of reward. For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise.”
 
Did you notice the little word “patience”? So easy to say, and yet it is so hard to exercise.
 
3. How can we be shaken? (Heb 12:26-28) – “Whose voice then shook the earth: but now he hath promised, saying, Yet once more I shake not the earth only, but also heaven. And this word, Yet once more, signifieth the removing of those things that are shaken, as of things that are made, that those things which cannot be shaken may remain. Wherefore we receiving a kingdom which cannot be moved, let us have grace, whereby we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear.”
 
When a strong wind blows, leaves fly off the tree. But unless it’s hurricane winds the root system of the tree will remain. Do you think that our Lord is allowing the strong winds (figuratively & literally) to blow to reveal that which is unshakable? Look what is unshakable in your life?
 
Conclusion: While we cannot escape from being shaken, we can stand securely in our trust in the Word
of God, our power from the Holy Spirit and hope in the coming of Jesus Christ.
 
Love y’all,
Pastor Randy Reese

14
Oct '24

Lies vs. Truth

Posted on Oct 14, 2024 in Devotions |

14
Oct '24
Introduction: Do you ever tell lies? Gossip? Jesus made it clear that what comes out of our mouth comes from our hearts. Other Scripture makes mention of speaking truth instead of lies. For instance, in this devotion today, Paul inspired by God reminds the believers in Ephesus as well as us today about the importance of taming the terrible tongue.
 
1. Stop lying! (Eph 4:25) – “Wherefore putting away lying, speak every man truth with his neighbour: for we are members one of another… Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers.”
 
Remember, the devil is “the father of lies” (John 8:44). Also don’t forget that the Antichrist will rise with all lies and deceitfulness – deceiving many. Honestly, today it is difficult to tell who is lying and who is telling the truth. However, for believers, we are to test the spirits (1John 4:1).
 
2. Start speaking the Truth! (Eph 4:25-29) – “Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers.”
 
Have you heard the statement: ‘If you can’t say anything good, then don’t say anything at all’? It is well worth remembering.
 
Conclusion: Do you need to stop right now and evaluate your conversations? Put away lying, but speak the truth.
 
Love y’all,
Pastor Randy Reese

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