December 2009 Heavenly Bread Devotional

HEAVENLY BREAD Volume 1 Issue 12 2009

A monthly devotional with inspiring words for daily living

HEAVENLY BREAD VOLUME 1Issue 12 2009


The Birth of Christ

© All right subsists 2008



HEAVENLY BREAD

MISSION AND GOALS

eavenly Bread’s mission is to provide inspirational devotional reading for all believers

in our efforts to uplift the name of Jesus while spreading the gospel message of Christ throughout the world. Our meditation scriptures are designed to encourage more Bible reading, study and meditation as it is our sword used in our spiritual warfare with Satan.

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It is our goal to obey Christ’s command as recorded in Matthew 28:19-20 by going into the entire world beginning in our Jerusalem, proceeding onto Judea, Samaria, and to continuing throughout the entire world until every man, woman and child have been taught Christ.


Tuesday December 1

Be vigilant: Mark 13:32 -34

Take ye heed, watch and pray: for ye know not when the time is.

oday’s discussion deals with the return of Christ as our scripture verse encourages us to watch

and pray for ye know not the time of Christ’s return will occur.

T Verses 24-31 give warning signs of events that will

precede Christ’s return after the great tribulation; tribulation believers will not be taken by surprise providing they heed the Word of God and the cosmic signs as they relate to the sun, moon, stars and the powers of the heavens that will be shaking. When Christ returns He will be coming in power to judge the wicked and deliver His faithful people and He will establish His righteousness here on earth. John in Revelation 19:14 speak about seeing heaven opening up and Christ coming as King of King and Lord of lords a Warrior-Messiah to establish truth and justice where He will judge all nation and wage war against all evil.

Therefore, in our scripture text believers are to be vigilant (watchful) as well as pray because no man, or angels does not know the exact day or hour when Christ will return, but it is certain that He will return.

Closing thoughts, believers are encouraged to be vigilant for Christ’s return as He likened His return to a man taking a long journey and giving everyone his/her assignments. Therefore, it behooves all believers to obey Christ’s commandments; when He does return Christ can say good and faithful servant “job well done.”

HEAVENLY BREAD VOLUME 1Issue 12 2009 Wednesday December 2

What is Grace? I Corinthians 1:4

I thank my God always on your behalf, for the grace of God which is given you by Jesus Christ.

ur subject question requires and answer from a different prospective which is by looking at

Grace from an analytical point of view as follows: O

G is for God the Father who knew from the creation of the world that man would require a Savior, which He provided, His name is Jesus Christ. Nevertheless, God created man in His likened and image to have fellowship with Him. Man was God’s last creation in His creative process and was created out of much love and care. Man is so loved that God made provision for all man’s needs.

R is for righteousness, which is the righteousness of God as there is none other than His. God’s righteousness is what the world and all other creations will be judge. God’s righteousness is fair and just and His truth will last forever.

A is for at; meaning who paid the price for man’s salvation. Humanity’s salvation may be free to all who believe, but someone paid the price. Man lacked the ability to die for his sins.

C is for Christ who paid the penalty of sin for humanity. Christ became mankind’s human sacrifice to remove the need for yearly atonement for sin. What a price to pay?

E is for the expense it cost God the Father and Jesus Christ the Son. It cost God His Son and Christ His life. Man’s expense account is cleared. GRACE is God’s free gift to man

HEAVENLY BREAD VOLUME 1Issue 12 2009 Thursday December 3

Christ Our Redeemer: Isaiah 63:16b

Doubtless thou art our father, though Abraham be ignorant of us, and Israel acknowledge us not: thou, O LORD, art our father, our redeemer; thy name is from everlasting.

he word redeems means to buy back, or to pay a price for or free from something. The redeemer is

the person who does the purchasing, freeing someone or something from something. Jesus Christ is our redeemer and He redeemed man from the clutches of sin as man lacked the ability to pay his/her sin debt. With Christ paying the penalty for our sins and our acceptance we then are made free from sin. Thus all believers became the redeemed and Christ our redeemer.

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If the question were raised, why couldn’t man pay his/her sin debt? Mankind lacked the ability to pay his sin debt because man is sinful by nature and sin entered humanity through Adam. Animal sacrifices were inadequate to remove sin, they covered over sin. The requirement to remove sin was a sin-free person—Jesus, and He met all requirements as He was holy, sinless and a God-man.

What does this mean for humanity? Humanity is to accept the gift of being set free from the bondage that led to eternal separation from our creator and through our redeemer all believers have the opportunity to spend eternal life with God.

What a price to pay for someone all out of love! Christ our redeemer paid it all.

HEAVENLY BREAD VOLUME 1Issue 12 2009 Friday December 4

Come Lord: Isaiah 64:1

O that thou wouldest rend the heavens, that thou wouldest come down, that the mountains might flow down at the presence.

he word rend or rent means to rip, tear or split (Genesis 37:29; Mark 15:38) and is usually

associated with the tearing of garment as a symbol of mourning or repentance. In our scripture text, Isaiah was making intercessory prayer to God for the people and was asking for a holy visitation from God to make His mighty name known for both God’s people and the other nations as well.

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Verse 4 explains why Isaiah made such request to God, because since the beginning of time man has failed to recognize who God is and the mighty wonders He has done for all humanity. Isaiah felt that the people needed some spectular display from God to get their attention. Also, Isaiah recognized that there were none other beside God and who He was, but Isaiah knew God had the power to intervene in events in human history as well as God promises to do great things for His faithful believers.

What hope do believers have in the face of unrighteousness? Believers have the assurances of God will and He rewards faithfulness and believers are to persevere in faith, hope, love and all good works that God’s grace make possible. Lastly, believers are to refrain from society’s ills because in all of our righteousness (best efforts) are “as filthy rags before God.” Believers are made right through the blood of Jesus. The Lord came in the form of Jesus Christ and He is coming back again.

HEAVENLY BREAD VOLUME 1Issue 12 2009 Saturday December 5

Walk In Love: 11 John 6a

And this is love; the we walk after his commandments. This is the commandment. That, as ye have heard from the beginning, ye should walk in it.

uch have been written and taught on love and yet there are many who counsel and warn believers to

walk in love as this is a commandment given by Christ Himself. Regardless of the many teaching to love one another while encouraging all to walk (show) love there are some who profess to love but fail to walk in love; John calls such deceivers. Deceivers have been present since the beginning of the church and they are persistent in persuading others to accept their views.

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The question now becomes, how can believers know if one truly loves them in the spirit of Christ? Believers are encouraged to try the spirit by the spirit and if it is of God then love can and will be seen by their actions which will support their teachings. Another point is that true love emulates Jesus Christ as He loved all to the point of death. During Jesus’ earthly ministry He performed many good deeds with care and compassion regardless of condition or situation. Lastly, believers are to love in obedience to the commandment to “love thy neighbor as thyself.”

It can be concluded that believers are to show love by their walk (lifestyle), and then the world will know that we are living in accordance to God’s commandment to love. He is love!

HEAVENLY BREAD VOLUME 1Issue 12 2009 Sunday December 6

John The Forerunner of Jesus: Mark 1:1-8

I indeed have baptized you with water: but he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost.

ho is John the Baptist? John the Baptist is the cousin of Jesus Christ the forerunner of Jesus.

John the Baptist was prophesied by OT prophets as one who would come making straight the way for the Messiah. John the Baptist preached repentance and he baptized believers with water but promised all who listened that the Messiah was coming and would baptize them with the Holy Ghost. John the Baptist was a strange fellow by our standards as he ate locusts and wild honey; even his dress was different. Nevertheless John was filled with the Holy Spirit.

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What else do we know about John the Baptist? John the Baptist was one of Jesus’ disciples and was much loved by Jesus. John the Baptist wrote the book of Revelation as it depicts the events to come. John presents Jesus as the Word of God who was with the God of creation. Also, John presents Jesus as the ultimate expression of God. God in the OT had spoken to man the prophets and was now speaking to all humanity through His Son-Jesus. In presenting Jesus as the Word, John makes references to Christ as he relates Him to the Father, the world, and humanity. Christ was to be the human sacrifice thus He was to have a human birth. It is note worthy to say that John is the only disciple to present Jesus and His deity, while the other gospel writers presented Jesus’ ministry to different segments of the Christian community.

John presents Jesus as the light of the world who shineth in darkness to dispel the world of its darkness. Christ

HEAVENLY BREAD VOLUME 1Issue 12 2009 is light for all who would hear and accept God’s grace. John 1:2; 14 John makes a profound statement regarding Christ and His deity, who was eternal from the beginning and for all who believe He would give them power to become sons of God. The Phrase “only begotten” in verse 14 solidifies Jesus as being part of the Godhead while authenticating Jesus’ sonship to the Father.

Now that we have looked at John, let’s look at what he preached, John preached repentance as he was calling sinners to change their ways which had them destined for eternal separation from God. In repentance, John was asking sinners to admit to their sins, confess their sins and turn from their sins. Also, John preached that he was not the promised Messiah but his mission was to prepare the way for the coming Messiah; meaning John was cultivating the hearts and minds of all who would hear and believe. John told his followers that his baptism was with water, but the Messiah’s baptism would be with the Holy Ghost which involved receiving power to live and boldly witness Christ. When believers are baptized by Jesus in the Holy Ghost, the Holy Spirit (Ghost) would be poured out upon them so they could continue the saving work of Christ.

John preached repentance before Christ came and since Christ’s death believers are commissioned to continue His saving works which is His death, burial and resurrection—Christ our Savior. Let’s proclaim Christ and repentance as John.

HEAVENLY BREAD VOLUME 1Issue 12 2009 Monday December 7

Harmony in God’s Kingdom: Isaiah 11:1-6

And there shall come forth a rod out of the stem of Jesse, and a Branch shall grow out of his roots….The wolf also shall dwell with the lamb, and the leopard shall lie down with the kid; and the calf with the young lion and the fatling together; and a little child shall lead them.

saiah gives us a glimpse into the future in a world governed by the righteous Branch—Jesus Christ

Himself. Isaiah also talks about Jesus being from the root of Jesse, which is the lineage of David as prophesied. Isaiah is speaking of a time when Jesus will become the ruler of a restored new world one where peace, righteousness and goodness will reign. Isaiah’s initial prophecy was fulfilled some 700 years later when Christ was born and the remainder of this prophecy will be realized when Christ returns.

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Verse 5 speak of the righteousness and faithfulness that will be the essential component of Christ’s reign as these two elements are requirements for all who will be leaders in Christ’s church as the moral qualifications are set forth in 1 Timothy 3:1-8. Leaders in the church are to set godly standards for laity to follow.

Verse 6 provides a vivid picture of the harmony that will exist when Christ rule this earth. This verse depicts the absence of brutality, hostility, and enmity that exist in this world as there will be complete harmony and tranquility among the animals. The peace that Christ will bring will be the final product of redemption (Isaiah 35:9; 65:20-25; Ezekiel 34:25-29). What a peaceful time that will be?

HEAVENLY BREAD VOLUME 1Issue 12 2009 Tuesday December 8

A Godly Deliverance: II Peter 2:4-9

The Lord knoweth how to deliver the godly out of temptations, and to reserve the unjust unto the Day of Judgment to be punished.

n Peter’s writing to the believers in Asia Minor, he was encouraging them to remain steadfast in the

Lord for He would deliver them as there is no deliverer like God Himself. Peter paints a vivid picture of false leaders who was denying the Lord who had saved them from the very sins they were now committing. Also, Peter outlines some of the wrong doings that these false leaders were committing against God’s people as they were using “feigned words” to enhance their affluent lifestyles. Peter warned unsuspecting and sincere believers to be cognizant of such behaviors as the unwary believer can be exploited. Peter continues his encouragement by saying that God in His time will deliver His people from such unrighteousness.

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Verses 4-9 gives true believers hope by stating that if God didn’t spare the angels who sinned, but cast them out of heaven into hell He will surely punish all unrighteous leaders. Peter reminds the Asia Minor believers by reflecting on Noah and his family and how were spared the wrath of God during the time of the flood. Peter highlights Lot as an example of the righteous being delivered (vv 7-8) and makes a profound statement in verse 9 by stating that “the Lord knoweth how to deliver the godly out of temptation.”

There is no deliverance like God’s deliverance. Remain faithful to the Lord for His deliverance is sure.


A New heaven and New Earth: II Peter 3:13

Nevertheless we, according to his promise, look for new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness.

hapter 3 of II Peter talks about the day of the Lord; verses 8-19 speak about the events that

will occur leading up to that day, “The day of the Lord” when Christ return to consummate the ages. The present earth and heaven will be destroyed by God’s judgment and will be replaced with this newly created heaven and earth (Revelation 21-22; Joel; 14; Zephaniah 1:7; I Thessalonians 5:2).

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The uncertainty of the Lord’s returns brings a question to mind, what must the church and all believers do while waiting? The church and all believers must be in holy conversation and godly living while waiting for the Lord’s return. Holy conversation and godly living are the standards by which all believers will be judged. Also, the church and all believers must obey the great commission given by Christ in Matthew 28:19-20 in spreading the gospel message worldwide, which is to be done in boldness as the Holy Spirit gives us power.

Lastly, the church and all believers must remain steadfast in faith while trusting in God’s Word as His Word will remain forever.

A new heaven and earth is a promise from God and it will happen.


Holy Living: II Peter 3:14

Wherefore, beloved, seeing that ye look for such things, be diligent that ye may be found of him in peace, without spot, and blameless.

his is the second in a series of discussion regarding the events leading to the coming day of

the Lord and believers’ conduct. As stated in an earlier discussion the exact day and time of Christ’s return is unknown to man. Believers are encouraged to be diligent in anticipating Christ’s return while remaining spiritually separated from the world and its corrupt systems.

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Believers are a holy nation (people) royal priesthood and a set aside people holy unto God. Believers’ attitudes toward sin and all unrighteousness is one of hatred as sin and unrighteousness is in opposition to God and His standards. Another point to be made is that believers are to persevere in faith and love God with an undivided heart as believers are a new generation of people called in God’s righteousness. This separation is necessary because believers are light in a sin darkened and unbelieving world and believers cannot witness the true gospel of Christ while living unholy lives. Un-separated believers will miss God’s blessings and rewards.

Believers, live holy for ye are holy as God our Father is holy. We have been sanctified (set aside) by God. The closer we get to God the more like Him we become. Live holy!


Grow in the Knowledge of Christ: II Peter 3:18

But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and for ever.

et’s consider the word grow and its meaning, which is to increase whether physically or

spiritually. This will give a clearer understanding of why our scripture text is encouraging all believers to grow in the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Believers are to grow beyond infancy toward adulthood in our spiritual walk with Christ.

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If the question were raised, how do we grow in the knowledge of God? First, one must admit that God is the creator of all creations and Jesus Christ is His Son and our Lord and Savior because of what Christ did for all humanity. His sacrificial death makes Him worthy of all praise, honor and glory. Second, we grow in the knowledge of God by studying His Word, the Bible, meditating on His Word and asking for divine interpretation of His Word as well as being in constant communication with God through prayer. Third, believers can and will grow in the knowledge of God by understanding that God’s grace is humanity’s free gift as it was undeserved by man. God’s love never quits and His free gift is eternal life that comes through Jesus Christ. Lastly, believers will grow in the knowledge of God as well as know His Will and respond to His Will. Knowledge is power that results in growth.


Everlasting Life In Jesus Christ: John 3:36

He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him.

hat is everlasting life? It is a life that never ends that Jesus Christ provides. Daniel 12:2 speak of

the resurrection of the righteous and wicked while indicating the destination of the two, those who believe in Jesus Christ will spend eternity with Him and the wicked will spend their eternity separated from God where there will be unending torment. John 4:14 refers to Jesus Christ of living water that leads to eternal life which is life everlasting. The living water that is spoken of is spiritual water as water is one of the symbols for the Holy Spirit and He dwells in each believer to guide, teach and protect each believer while on this earthly journey to heaven.

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Jesus Christ is the everlasting life as He was slain from the foundation of the world and came to earth in human form as the provider of salvation for all who accept Him as their Savior. Ones final resting place (destination) depends on ones relationship with God. Everlasting (eternal) life has its rewards, which are living forever in the presence of God in peace, love and joy. Which do you chose?


What was John’s Testimony: John 1:19-31

And this is the record of John, when the Jews sent priests and Levites from Jerusalem to ask him, Who art thou?

ur scripture text begins with John being questioned by the religious leaders to ask him

who was he? John being the forerunner of Jesus Christ was preaching repentance as he was preparing the way for the Messiah—Jesus Christ. See! John’s fame had spread as he preached and baptized with water and stated that the one coming after him would baptize with the Holy Ghost; this was the promised Messiah. These religious leaders wanted everything to remain status quo and with John’s preaching repentance was upsetting their status quo.

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During John’s questioning by the Jewish leaders, John denied being the Christ, which he weren’t. The next question was asked, “Art thou Elias” again the answer was no, and when asked was he that prophet, again the answer was no. Verse 23 John provides the answer as to who he was, which states, “I am the voice of one crying in the wilderness, Make straight the way of the Lord.” The Pharisees questioning didn’t stop there, but questioned John as to why he was “baptizing if he weren’t the Christ, Elias or that prophet.” John answered his critics in this fashion, I baptize with water but there is one among you who you don’t even know as He was preferred before me and I am not worthy to untie His shoe laces (paraphrased conversation).

These questions come to mind, if questioned about our identity what would we say? Can and will we say that I am a disciple of Christ and testify that Jesus is the Christ? Can we say with conviction that Jesus will return someday

HEAVENLY BREAD VOLUME 1Issue 12 2009 for His elect and will you be counted as one of His elect? Do we proclaim Christ without regard for reputation or fear of retribution? At Jesus’ baptism, God the Father and the Holy Spirit authenticated Jesus’ deity as Son of God, can the world identify you as adopted sons of God?

In today’s society, Christianity is being challenged from many different directions, and believers are being asked to stand firm on what they believe and in whom they believe. John’s testimony say a lot about his character and that of believers everywhere, which is to know who you are and what your mission is. Also, all believers have the assurances that Christ will never leave or forsake His own and if we as believers are not ashamed to own Jesus Christ before men He will own you before His Father. The question now becomes, how can one deny the one who provided salvation or the only person who give everlasting life?

Let’s close this discussion by saying John gave a powerful testimony of himself and Christ’s identity. Can we say like John, I am not the Christ, but I know the Christ who is mightier than I, who can save anybody only if you repent of your sins? What a testimony!


Rejoicing In Salvation: Isaiah 61:10

I will greatly rejoice in the LORD, my soul shall be joyful in my God for he hath clothed with the garments of salvation, he hath covered me with the robe of righteousness, as a bridegroom decketh himself with ornaments, and as a bride adorneth herself with her jewels.

oday’s discussion is the first of a three-day discussion on the joy all believers will have when Christ returns.

Therefore, let’s begin our discussion by looking at the word rejoice and it’s meaning. Rejoice is derived from the word joy which means gladness or the act of rejoicing. Discussing joy or rejoicing from a spiritual perspective it is viewed as a life filled with the Holy Spirit (Galatians 5:22). Psalm 16:11 speak of the joy that is felt from being shown the path of life while in the presence of the one who provides this guidance. Matthew 2:10 talk about the rejoicing that took place when the shepherds saw the star they rejoiced because they knew prophecy had been fulfilled, the Christ child was born.

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What did Jesus’ birth represent? His birth meant salvation had come to earth whereby all humanity’s could be saved from the bondage of sin. Therefore, in order for believers to rejoice in Christ’s return His first coming was necessary in the salvation process. The salvation process will be complete at His second coming.

What a time of rejoicing at His birth and return for His people. Rejoice in God’s salvation!


Clothed in God’s Salvation: Isaiah 61:11a

For as the earth bringeth forth her bud, and as the garden causeth the things that are sown in it to spring forth…

n today’s discussion we will focus on being clothed in the garments of salvation and the results

from such dress. In our society we are to wear clothing as a covering for the body because God sanction the wearing of garments after the fall of Adam and Eve. When Adam and Eve sinned in the Garden they sewed fig leaves to cover their nakedness. Nakedness represents sin and the fallen depraved conditions of mankind and because of the nakedness that evil would cause in the world God Himself made garments for Adam and Eve to wear and from that day forward mankind is to cover his/her bare skin.

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Because of the depraved conditions of humanity caused by sin resulted in Jesus coming as humanity’s deliverer providing salvation as a covering for man’s sins. Salvation is the garment of righteousness. All who accepts God’s free gift is in the company of His redeemed. When Christ returns all the redeemed will be clothed in their salvation robes that have been washed in the blood of the Lamb. The redeemed will be adorned as a bride–the church dressed to meet her husband Jesus, for they will have endured the test of time and is deemed worthy of salvation’s garment.

Remain steadfast in the Lord as your righteous garment of salvation waits you.


All Nations Will Praise God: Isaiah 61:11b

…..So the Lord God will cause righteousness and praise to spring forth before all the nations.

oday is the last in a series of a three-day discussion on the completeness of salvation

when Christ returns for His bride the church. Today’s discussion focuses on the assurances that all nations will praise God for His righteousness and they will recognize who He is and what He has done for all humanity. Believers recognize God and His righteousness and give Him His due praise. There are many who has yet to acknowledge God and His righteousness, but when He returns to establish His kingdom here on earth many non-believers will be converted and live according to His holy standards.

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Scripture states that one day every tongue shall confess and every knee shall bow before the Lord. If scripture say it, then believe it for it will happen.

Another school of thought is when Christ returns there will be great joy and rejoicing because there will complete peace and harmony among all creations as evil will have been removed from the world. In other words the world we know today will no longer exist; it will be one as experienced by Adam and Eve before sin entered the world.

What joy there will when all nations praise and worship God?


A Prayer Of Deliverance: Jonah 2:1-7

When my soul fainted within me I remembered the LORD: and my prayer came in unto thee, into thine holy temple.

hat does it mean to “remember” the Lord? The very nature of remembering is to say that

something or someone was forgotten. In this scenario Jonah remembered the Lord God and who He was and that God had the ability to save him if it was God’s Will. Another point is that when someone is at his/her lowest ebb and recognizes that only God can reach down and lift them up out of their vanities. It is at this point the person in this condition forsake his/her own mercy realizing they cannot save themselves. Also, it is at this point the person call on God with sincerity, in faith and with an assured hope their prayers reach God and He does answer.

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Verses 9-10 highlights the sincerity of Jonah’s prayer to God and the results as this is a teachable moment for all regarding our prayer lives and obedience to God. It was Jonah’s disobedience for him being in this situation. See! God told Jonah to go preach one place but instead Jonah refused and felt that he could escape the presence of God. How foolish!

The moral is if God said preach then preach, if God said teach then teach to whomever and go wherever God said because He always has a way to get His plan accomplished. Obey God!


God’s Protection: Jonah 4:6-10

And the Lord God prepared a gourd, and made to come up over Jonah, that it might be a shadow over his head, to deliver him from his grief. So Jonah was exceeding glad of the gourd.

he story of Jonah is one where he felt that the people of Nineveh were not good enough for

God’s grace and mercy. This type of attitude is evidenced by many in our society today. Didn’t God send His Son Jesus Christ to die for all humanity regardless of ethnic background and past sins; who are we (believers) to say who can be saved and who cannot experience God’s mercy?

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When Jonah preached to the Ninevites, they believed God and this angered Jonah because he didn’t want God to spare them because they were enemies of Israel. Questions that come to mind are what was Jonah’s problem? Was Jonah truly committed to God’s Will or was he more concerned for Israel’s physical safety? Jonah’s first concern should have been doing the Will of God and left Israel’s safety to God because God provided for his protection in spite of his disobedience and attempting to flee God’s presence; even during Jonah’s anger God protected and provided for him. Verse 11 makes a profound point of God’s love for all humanity as it brings into focus John 3:16 and Matthew 28:18-20 as it commission believers to preach the gospel to all nations. God’s protection is everywhere and for everyone.


Remember The Law And its Meaning: Malachi 4:4

Remember ye the Law of Moses my servant, which I commanded unto him at Horeb for all Israel, with the statues and judgments.

hat was the Law that God gave to Moses? The Law that God gave to Moses was the Ten

Commandments as they were statues by which the nation of Israel were to live. Those morals and statues are applicable for all humanity today as they depict our relationship to God and to our fellowman. The first commandment is to have no other god before the true and living God, second we are to love our neighbor as one self. These two laws are the greatest of the Ten Commandments, and if obeyed reflects our obedient faith in God and His righteous standards. In the OT times, the nation of Israel were to obey God’s covenant in faith which were to begin in the heart while in the NT all who believe in Christ are called into an obedient faith as it relates to God’s “moral” Law (Romans 8:4).

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Matthew 5:17 records Jesus’ statement regarding His fulfilling the OT Law and how NT believers are to view the Law as it must not be seen as a system of legal commandments, but as moral codes for those who are saved and have an obedient relationship with God. Believers who have accepted Christ in faith by God’s grace and have the indwelling Holy Spirit now have the power to fulfill the Law of God and live according to His Will. The Law is worth remembering.


God Establishes His Dynasty Through David: II Samuel

7:1-16 And it came to pass that night, that the word of the Lord came unto Nathan, saying, Go and tell my servant David, Thus saith the Lord, Shalt thou build me a house for me to dwell in?...He shall build a house for my name, and I will stablish the throne of his kingdom for ever…And thine house and thy kingdom shall be stablished for ever before thee: thy throne shall be stablished for ever...

ur scripture verses highlights a conversation between the Lord and His prophet Nathan who

was a very close friend of King David. The Ark of the Covenant has been in the presence of the nation of Israel during their wilderness journey and beyond, but there were no permanent place for the Ark of the Covenant to reside. At this time the Ark of the Covenant was residing “within curtains” (v 2). The conversation continues with God reminding His prophet Nathan the last time He dwelt in a house was when “He brought the children of Israel out of Egypt and walked with them in a tent and in a tabernacle.” What the Lord was saying that He had taken care of His chosen people; He had given them the Promised Land as promised, fought and won battles for them and gave them peace when they obeyed His commands; now it was time for them to reverence Him by building Him a house. This can be seen as a respectable place of worship, a display of reverence and gratitude for His love, grace, mercy and kindness. What a merciful God!

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Questions that come to mind are if the nation of Israel had built them fine cedar homes shouldn’t the Lord have something better than curtains? Doesn’t the Lord

HEAVENLY BREAD VOLUME 1Issue 12 2009 deserve our best considering all that He has done for Israel and humanity in general?

In verse 13 God make His promise to David of establishing His kingdom one that would last forever and history bares record of Jesus Christ being from the lineage of David. It is note worthy to say that God kept His promise to David and for the next four centuries; the lineage of David remained unbroken on Judah’s throne until the rebellious kings, particularly King Manasseh and all the kings that reigned after Josiah when God removed them from the kingship. After allowing His people to be in captivity for 700 years God reestablished His kingdom with the birth of Jesus Christ. Christ came out of the City of Bethlehem and His rule will extend to the ends of the earth (Zechariah 9:10) as Mary being a daughter from the lineage of David (Luke 1:30; Acts 2:29-35).

Some fulfilled promises of the covenant made with David that was fulfilled with Christ is that it involved His (Christ) resurrection from the dead and being exalted to the right hand of the Father where Christ now rules as King of kings and Lord of Lords and Christ sent the Holy Spirit as promised (Acts 2:29-33; Acts 1:8; 2:4, 33). Another point of God’s fulfilling His promise through Jesus Christ is Christ’s rule is a call to all people to repent of their sin and accept Him as Lord and Savior. Lastly, His eternal kingship includes (a) Him as our present ruler over God’s kingdom, (b) Him being the head of the church-His bride, (c) His future millennial rule of all nations (Revelation 2:26-27, 20:4), and (d) His everlasting kingdom in the new heaven and new earth (Revelation 21-22).

God established His dynasty as King, will you be under His rule? Jesus Christ is our last king.


Favor With God: Luke 1:30

And the angel said unto her, Fear not, Mary; for thou hast found favor with God.

ur lesson setting take place as prophecy is being fulfilled which was prophesied 42 generation

earlier that a virgin shall bring forth a son who would bear the sins of the world. Mary is the virgin espoused (engaged) to be married to Joseph, but this virgin was visited by the angel Gabriel informing Mary of her favor with God—she was highly favored. Favor with God is grace in His eyesight as this is due to one humility and godly lifestyle to be chosen by God for an important task. Noah comes to mind when he found grace with God during his generation as all manner of wickedness was throughout the land. The same can be said of Mary as her favor with God would earn her high ranking among other women of her day. The task for Mary was to give birth to the promised Savior of the world and this task would bring her much joy and sorrow. Mary’s son Jesus was to bring salvation to all mankind, but He must suffer the horrible pain of death on the cross.

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Being called by God brings blessing and suffering, joy and sadness, success and disappointments. Christ in obedience to the Father experienced all as do believers today, but our hope rests in knowing and doing the Will of God. Humility and godliness brings favor with God.


His Name Is Jesus: Luke 1:31

And behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and shall call his name JESUS.

ontinuing the conversation between Mary and the angel Gabriel, he informs Mary of the baby’s

name; as all aspects of prophecy is being fulfilled with the birth of Jesus. His name means the anointed Son of God, the Messiah, the Savior of the world (Mark 14:61-62; Matthew 16:16; 27:43; Acts 10:38). Believers know Him as the Christ, the Savior of the world and through Him believers have everlasting life (John 3:16).

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John 17:3 records that Christ was Jesus’ title but also became the personal name of Jesus. Jesus is the name most often used in His earthly ministry while Christ is His eternal name and Christ is the Greek word for the Hebrew word meaning Messiah.

There are many names that are associated with Jesus and they are: (a) John 14:6 calls Him “The Way, The Truth, and The Life.” (b) John 10:11 call Him the Good Shepherd, (c) John 1:7 call Him Light, (d) in John 6:35 He is known as the Bread of Life, (e) in Isaiah 7:14 He is called Immanuel, (f) II Peter 3:18 call Him Savior, (g) Isaiah, 9:6 refers to Jesus as Wonderful Counselor, Prince of Peace, Mighty God and Everlasting Father, (h) John 1:1 call Him “The Word”, (i) John 11:25 call Him “The Resurrection”, (j) Matthew 8:8 call Him Lord, and (k) Mark 2:28 call Him the Son of Man. Whatever title you use for Jesus He is the Savior!


God Can Do All Things: Luke 1:37

For with God nothing shall be impossible.

hat does the phrase “nothing shall be impossible with God” mean? This scripture

speak of the omnipresent omnipotent and omniscient God, who knows all, sees all, is everywhere and can do all as He is the creator and sustainer of all that exist. Our scripture verse give credence to a forever existing God one who has no beginning or end. The question becomes who wouldn’t serve a God like the true and living God of all creations.

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With that being establishes, let us look at some impossibilities for man to accomplish, and they are (a) man may invent, but he cannot create. (b) Man cannot remove sin, but it was through man Adam sin entered the word. (c) Man cannot save himself or free himself from the bondage of sin and eternal separation from God that sin brings. Therefore, man needed a Savior and Jesus is the Savior. (d) Man’s existence is limited, with God His existence is forever. (e) Man lacks the ability to provide for his every need; God and His provisional care is the ultimate source of all man’s needs.

The living God who can do all things is worthy of all praise, honor, worship and an intimate relationship with Him. Let’s serve a can do God and give thanks for all that He has done and continues to do for mankind. Believers, through Christ who strengthen us we can do extraordinary things.


Magnify The Lord: Luke 1:46

And Mary said, My soul doth magnify the Lord, And my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Savior.

he Virgin Mary accepted the task that God had given her; when she visited her cousin Elisabeth

who was with child, John the Baptist and upon greeting Elisabeth’s baby leaped in her womb authenticating that Mary and her baby was blessed for she was carrying the Savior.

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Our scripture text highlights faith in God for He is worthy of being magnified. Mary recognized that she was a sinner and in need of salvation that only Christ could provide. Because Mary gave birth to the Savior does not mean that her salvation was automatic, but required Mary to believe in Jesus Christ as required by all humankind. Another point to be made regarding our scripture verse is that Mary would magnify the Lord with her total being as He is worthy of all praise and honor. The questions now become, how do you magnify the Lord? Is He Lord of your life? Do you rejoice at His birth and His saving powers? However you magnify the Lord it should be with your every being?

Lastly, magnify the Lord as His name is great among the heavens and shall rein supreme among all nations. Let’s magnify the Lord!


Christ Is Born: Luke 2:1-20

And so it was that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered….For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord.

he birth of Christ is the most celebrated event in the history of mankind as it reflects on that great

day many years ago when the Virgin Mary brought forth her first born child who was the Savior of the world. Christ was born in a manager, He was wrapped in swaddling clothes, and there were no room for Mary to give birth to Jesus all as prophesied.

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Jesus Christ is King of kings, but He wasn’t born in kingly fashion neither did He live like a king. His birth was in total humility and He lived in the same fashion. What does this say about Christians? All God’s children are kings and priests, but all believers must live lives of humility in obedience to the Father. Believers’ lives must be one of simplicity as we emulate the simple life of Christ.

Other events that occurred on this day are the angels from heaven made the grand announcement to the shepherds who were abiding in the fields tending their flock. The angels joined the heavenly Choir (host) singing “peace on earth and good will toward men.” O! What a day of rejoicing that was?

The question now become, how will you celebrate this day?


Jesus The Word: John 1:14

And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.

hat does our topical discussion title say about Jesus? It say that Jesus Christ, the eternal God,

became human (Philippians 2:5-9) as deity and humanity came together in Christ. The phrase begotten of the Father authenticates Christ’s deity and He was born of the Virgin Mary and has God as His Father which makes Him God-man.

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John presenting Jesus as the Word shows His relationship to the Father as He existed with God the Father from the beginning of time nor was He created by God during the creation process. Jesus as the Word is the final revelation of God Himself who spoke to all humanity through His Son Jesus these last days. Prior to Jesus coming to earth, God spoke to humanity through the prophets. Another point on Jesus being the Word is that God the Father spoke during the creation process and Jesus carried out His Father’s command. Lastly, Jesus as the Word is that He took on humanity through His Virgin birth to be subjected to human limitations to experience all human conditions. Jesus being the Word of God spoke only truth as He is truth as He taught. Jesus healed as God in the second person through the Holy Spirit can do. Jesus the Word of God for He is God!


See The Salvation Of The Lord: Luke 2:25-35

And behold, there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon; and the same man was just and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel: and the Holy Ghost was upon him. And it was revealed unto him by the Holy Ghost, that he should not see death, before he had seen the Lord’s Christ…. For mine eyes have seen thy salvation, Which thou hast prepared before the face of all people; A light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of thy people Israel.

he setting for today’s discussion take place with Mary and Joseph taking Jesus to the temple

according to the Law that every male child that opens the womb should be called holy to the Lord and sacrifices were to be made. Mary and Joseph were being obedient to the law and while in the temple Simeon a devout man of God was performing his temple duties. Simeon’s heart was right with God and God promised Simeon he would not see death until he had seen the Savior of the world in the flesh--Jesus. When Simeon looked upon Jesus the Holy Spirit revealed to Simeon that this was the Savior of the world.

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The question that comes to mind is what were the conditions of Simeon’s day and how is it that Simeon was so devout to the Lord? Simeon lived at a time when spiritual conditions were lukewarm at best, but Simeon loved God with all his heart and was devoted to Him. Simeon had great faith and waited patiently for the coming Messiah as the Messiah was promised many generations earlier. Simeon was rewarded for his faithfulness with seeing the baby Jesus who was the Messiah. God’s longsuffering is not a sign of an unfulfilled promise but it is His desire for all to repent

HEAVENLY BREAD VOLUME 1Issue 12 2009 and be saved. Those who persevere in faith like Simeon will see the salvation of the Lord. Another question that comes is what will the conditions be like in the end times? There are lukewarm conditions now and there will be lukewarm conditions during the end times because many will lack the faith and patience to endure in faith until Christ’s return. Therefore, many will lose their blessing of seeing the Savior face to face, but true believers in Christ will persevere in faith as they realizes seeing Christ face to face is their greatest blessing and they will live with Him forever.

Another question that comes to mind is what must modern day believers do to be like Simeon? Believers today must seek the aid of the Holy Spirit for strength to endure these perilous times, and with His strength believers will and can remain steadfast in faith, love and submission to Christ until He returns. More importantly, modern day believers must be totally commitment to Christ and His message.

In conclusion, God rewards faithful believers as He did with Simeon. Wait on God, salvation is at hand.


What are Virtues: Colossians 3:12-13

Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering; Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any; even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye.

hat are virtues? Zondervan’s Pictorial Bible Dictionary (P. 884) defines virtues as “ones

ability, strength or a moral worth of a person or a thing.” Zondervan also states that virtue when referencing women as her ability or power. Both Mark 5:30 and Luke 6:19 refers to virtue as strength.

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Our scripture verses give a biblical definition of virtue as holy, beloved, having bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, and longsuffering while forbearing one another as well as being willing to forgive as Christ forgave all humanity because all are and were sinners. The question now becomes why is it befitting for believers to clothe themselves in virtues? Believers are encouraged to put on virtues because we are the elect of God and are to emulate Him in word and deed so the world will know who we are. The question now becomes how do believers clothe themselves in virtues? This can be accomplished by daily scripture reading and meditating on the Word of God while being in constant prayer to God and asking for the Holy Spirit’s help in our daily walk with Christ.

Therefore, put on virtues, wear them well for being clothed in virtues God will be glorified.


Put On Charity: Colossians 3:14

And above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness.

hen the apostle Paul was instructing the Colossians believers in Christian conduct and

had given the attributes for virtuous living he stated that above all things put on charity. Paul states charity is the perfectness as it emulates Christ Himself because He is love. When one speak of the bond of perfectness it can be viewed as being perfect in Christ because He loved all humanity and became human for the purpose of dying for man’s sins.

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Another school of thought on charity is that it is love because love supersedes all and conquerors all. Let’s explore love and it victories, it conquered death and the grave, it accomplished salvation for all who accept Jesus as their Lord and Savior while providing eternal life to the faithful. It is through love that all man’s needs are provided for and when man is experiencing trials and tribulations, love is there as a comforter. Love calms the troubled waters of man’s soul. Love provides spiritual nourishments in the form of living bread and water for all believers. Love is seen as extending the gift of grace and mercy from all eternity. If the question was raised what love has to do with it? The answer is a resounding everything, because love is the core of man’s existence from beginning to end. Charity is love and is witnessed in all that exist.


All In Jesus Name: Colossians 3:17

And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him.

ur scripture verse gives a profound declaration in that it encourages all believers what ever you

do whether in word, our speech or deed believers are to do it in the name of the Jesus. The reason for such declaration is that throughout scripture are the guiding principles of rightness and wrongness because all humanity has to give in account for each word or deed. It behooves each believer to consider our Lord and Savior Jesus and ask these questions, am I considering Jesus when speaking or embarking upon an activity? Do my words and or deeds glorify God (I Corinthians 10:31)? When speaking or doing in the name of Jesus will it please Him? Are my thanks sincere to God given what He has done for me? Is my activities Christ-like (I John 2:6)? Will my actions or words be a stumbling block to others? How will this activity and or words weaken my relationship with the Lord, His Word, and my prayer life (Luke 8:14)? How will my actions and words affect my witnessing Christ to others (Matthew 5:13-16)? Does my walk manifest Christ to the world?

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Our answers reflect our reverence for and relationship with Christ while recognizing there is power in the name of Jesus. All words and deeds are to be Christ focused—in His name.


God Saves: Isaiah 45:22

Look unto me, and be ye saved, all the ends of the earth: for I am God, and there is none else.

f the question were raised, what is meant by our scripture verse? It is an invitation by God to all

humanity and for all humanity to repent of their evil ways and be saved as He is the only one who saves all mankind. As this call went forth in the OT times, in the age of grace the same invitation is being extended by Christ as He has commissioned all believers (His church) to proclaim His message worldwide (Matthew 28:18-20). It is God’s desire that all repent and be saved; being an all-knowing God He knew that many will refuse salvation. Verse 23 gives a profound declaration that one day all will come before the Lord and bow before Him acknowledging that He is Lord.

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In obedience to the great commission, believers are to make disciples for Christ. Believers have the assurance of His presence because He promised to be with them to the ends of the earth. Christ is present with all believers as they have been baptized in the Holy Spirit who gives them power to boldly witness Christ world over. What better testimony than that of a spirit-filled believer who can boldly witness Christ’s saving power in his/her life? God saves—believe and be saved.


Author’s Comments Thank you for allowing me to share God’s Word with you.

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Bio WILLIE B. WHITE holds two Masters of Arts degree in Adult education (MA Ed, MA SED). Weekly articles in The Oakland press (religion subsection). A monthly article appears in Divine Inspiration Magazine at www.divineinspirationmagazine.com and frequent articles in The Informer magazine of the SSPB. First book, “The Lord is My Shepherd”, (2007) PublishAmerica. “Expose of the Holy Spirit”, released June 2009, “Heavenly Bread”, released July 2009, a monthly devotional. Works in progress, DVD Who is God? An inspirational video and Season of Inspiration book, release day December 2009. All material is available through www.goodshepherdwritingandpublishing.com



Documents

December 2009 Heavenly Bread Devotional