December 2020

THE SOULWINNER'S REWARD

12/31/20

General Booth told of a man leaving Australia who had been working in the gold fields, and had acquired a fortune. He was on a ship, when a leak was sprung. The life-boats were lost, and the people were without hope. This strong man thought he could fight through the waves to the island, and he was about to spring into the water when a little girl, whose mother had been lost in the storm, asked him, “Sir, can you save me?” He looked at his belt of gold, and then at the child, and then at the belt, and then at the child again. He threw the belt of gold away, took her on his back, and threw himself into the sea. He struggled through the waves and with life almost gone he reached the land. The next day, when he regained consciousness the little girl put her arms around his neck, and her lips to his cheek, and said, “I am so glad you saved me.” That was worth more than all the gold in Australia.

That is the soul-winner’s reward. It is for some man whom you have won for Christ to meet you on the streets of gold and say, “I am so glad you preached that sermon, or sang that song; it saved me.”

Source: Present Day Parables, J. Wilbur Chapman

Submitted by the homiletics class of West Coast Baptist College

“For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost.”

Luke 19:10

That is what Jesus said after saving Zacchaeus!

The ministry of reaching people with the Gospel and seeking to bring them to salvation in Jesus Christ has been given to us as well. Are you obeying the Lord Jesus in this matter?

If you are not one of His, come to the Lord Jesus NOW!

“He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life.”

1 John 5:12

Pastor Fred Johnson, Editor of Daily Insights

LOVE & LIVE PASSIONATELY FOR CHRIST!

THE SURPRISED PASTOR

12/29/20

A lady’s husband had heart surgery, and she received a letter saying her husband inherited one million dollars. She was worried about her husband’s health, so she called their pastor and asked him to tell the good news to her husband. The pastor said to the husband, “Joe, if you were to have one million dollars, what would you do?”

Joe responded, “Why Pastor, I’d give it to you!” The pastor died of a heart attack.

Source: Unknown

“For the Lord God is a sun and shield: the Lord will give grace and glory: no good thing will he withhold from them that walk uprightly.”

Psalm 84:11

Ah, we who belong to the Lord Jesus and love Him with our entire being, do not have to worry about anything, because He has promised to supply all our needs (Philippians 4:19). Besides that, He blesses us far beyond our needs!

If Jesus Christ is not your Lord and Savior, come to Him NOW!

“For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.”

Romans 6:23

Pastor Fred Johnson, Editor of Daily Insights

LOVE & LIVE PASSIONATELY FOR CHRIST

WANTING MORE

12/28/20

Two friends met each other on the street one day. One looked forlorn, almost on the verge of tears. His friend asked, “What has the world done to you, my old friend?” The sad fellow said, “Let me tell you: three weeks ago, my uncle died and left me forty thousand dollars.”

“That’s a lot of money.”

“But you see, two weeks ago, a cousin I never even knew died, and left me eighty-five thousand dollars, free and clear.

“Sounds to me that you’ve been very blessed.”

“You don’t understand!” he interrupted. “Last week my great-aunt passed away. I inherited almost a quarter of a million from her.”

Now the man’s friend was really confused. “Then, why do you look so glum?”

“This week—nothing!”

We can often come to the point where we expect to get certain blessings that God never promised us, and when they do not come, it is easy to get bitter. - Source Unknown

8 O taste and see that the Lord is good: blessed is the man that trusteth in him.

9 O fear the Lord, ye his saints: for there is no want to them that fear him.

10 The young lions do lack, and suffer hunger: but they that seek the Lord shall not want any good thing. - Psalm 34

When we walk humbly with our Lord, loving Him with our entire being (Matthew 22;37), knowing that He will not withhold from us any good thing, we will be satisfied with the blessings He gives and know that what He withholds is best for us as well.

If you do not belong to the Lord Jesus, come to Him NOW!

“He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life.” - 1 John 5:12

Pastor Fred Johnson, Editor of Daily Insights

LOVE & LIVE PASSIONATELY FOR CHRIST!

PROVING GOD

12/27/20

Brother Kuykendal was a pastor in Texas when H. Z. Duke, founder of Duke and Ayers Nickel Stores, asked him if he believed in tithing to which he replied that he did. Mr. Duke then asked him if he practiced tithing. He answered, “No, I do not. I believe in tithing, but I cannot practice it. You see, I have thirteen children at home. Every meal fifteen of us sit down at the table. I receive only $125 a month, $1500 a year, as salary. I have to maintain my own horse and buggy for constant traveling. It is just impossible to take care of all the needs of a family of fifteen out of $125 a month and have money left to tithe. So I believe in tithing, and I preach it, but I cannot practice it.”

Mr. Duke then said, “I want you to set out to give God at least $12.50 every month as soon as you get your salary. Then as you feel led, you may give more. I promise you that if you need help, I will give it. Simply write me a letter and say, ‘Brother Duke. I am giving a tithe, but I miss the money. I need it for my family. I have given this year so much.’ I promise you that I will send you a check by return mail. Are you willing to try tithing on that basis?”

Brother Kuykendal was very excited at the offer and began tithing. That year God took care of his needs in unexpected ways so that he never had to send that letter to Mr. Duke. Near the end of the year he realized that he had trusted Mr. Duke’s promise to provide for him more than he had trusted God’s promise. He said, “I had taken the word of a man when I did not take the promise of God! Now I had proven God’s promises and found that He took care of me and my big family on a small salary. I found that $112.50 per month took care of our family better, with God’s blessing, than $125 did without being under the blessed covenant which He has made with those who seek first the kingdom of God and who tithe.”

Source: Steps for New Converts, Dr. John R. Rice

“But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.”

Philippians 4:19

Do you trust the promise of man more than the promise of the Lord who bought you with His precious blood?

If Jesus Christ is not your Lord and Savior, com to Him today!

“Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.”

Acts 4:12

Pastor Fred Johnson, Editor of daily Insights

LOVE & LIVE PASSIONATELY FOR CHRIST!

OBSTACLES ARE OPPORTUNITIES IN DISGUISE

12/26/20

In ancient times, a king had a boulder placed on a roadway. Then he hid himself and watched to see if anyone would remove the huge rock. Some of the king's wealthiest merchants and courtiers came by and simply walked around it. Many loudly blamed the king for not keeping the roads clear, but none did anything about getting the stone out of the way. Then a peasant came along carrying a load of vegetables. Upon reaching the boulder, the peasant laid down his burden and tried to move the stone to the side of the road. After much pushing and straining, he finally succeeded. After the peasant picked up his load of vegetables, he noticed a purse lying in the road where the boulder had been. The purse contained many gold coins and a note from the king indicating that the gold was for the person who removed the boulder from the roadway. The peasant learned what many of us never understand, every obstacle is really an opportunity in disguise.

Source: Unknown

“I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.”

Philippians 4:13

The Apostle Paul faced many obstacles in his service for the Lord but recognized they were opportunities in disguise to make a difference in many lives and to glorify the Lord. May we do the same and enjoy our Lord’s richest blessings!

If He is not your Lord and Savior, come to the Lord Jesus NOW! Repent of all your sin (Luke 13:3,5) and trust Him and Him alone to be your Lord and Savior!

“For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.”

Romans 6:23

Pastor Fred Johnson, Editor of Daily Insights

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A SAVIOUR WHO MADE US RICH

12/25/20

In January of 1956, Jim Elliot and four other missionaries gave their lives in Ecuador in their effort to reach the Waodani (Auca) Indians. This fierce group was known to attack any outsiders, but the vision for reaching them with the gospel compelled these young men to take the risk. Not long after they set up camp near the Waodani village they were attacked by warriors. Refusing to defend their lives with force, the missionaries were killed. The news flashed around the world, and the story of courage and sacrifice challenged many to take up the missionary cause. Even today Elliot’s words live on: “He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain what he cannot lose.”

In a very real sense, Jim Elliot and his missionary friends were living the spirit of Christmas. They were willing to give up the comforts of home and promising careers and to ultimately lay down their lives to take the gospel to those who had never heard. They could have fought back to defend themselves, but they chose not to.

This is what Jesus did for us in coming to Earth. Paul wrote, “For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, that ye through his poverty might be rich” (2 Corinthians 8:9).

Nothing of lasting significance and importance for God is ever accomplished without great sacrifice. Whether it is our time, our talent, our treasure, or even our lives, we must be willing to give up what is temporary for the sake of what is eternal. When we do, we are following the example and pattern of Christ and walking in His steps.

Source: Jim Elliot, Kathleen White

Do you belong to the Lord Jesus and follow His example and pattern to reach lost souls for Christ and disciple fellow believers by the power of the power of the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 5:18; Galatians 5:22-23)?

If Jesus Christ is not your Lord and Savior, come to Him NOW!

“He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life.”

1 John 5:12

Pastor Fred Johnson, Editor of Daily Insights

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MERRY CHRISTMAS!

GRATEFUL HEARTS

12/24/20

After World War II, two families were waiting in line after a church service to greet the pastor. The church was preparing to build a building at that time.

The first family in line said, “Pastor, as you know, our son was killed in the war—we would like to give $200.00 as a memorial gift.”

The second family said, “Pastor we were going to give $200.00, but our son came home—we’ll give $500.00.”

Source: Unknown

“O give thanks unto the Lord; for he is good; for his mercy (steadfast, loyal love) endureth for ever.” - 1 Chronicles 16:34

On this Christmas Eve and every day, we should have grateful hearts that the Lord came into this world to pay the penalty for all sin, rise triumphant over sin, death and Hell to provide the gift of eternal life for us and all who will come to Him. We should show our gratitude by obeying Him in every area of our lives and seeking in every way possible to lead unsaved people to salvation in Him.

If you are not one of His, come to the Lord Jesus NOW, before it is too late!

Pastor Fred Johnson, Editor of Daily Insights

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BE THANKFUL FOR LIFE

12/23/20

Even though I clutch my blankets and groan when the alarm rings each morning, thank you, Lord, that I can hear. There are those who are deaf.

Even though I keep my eyes tightly closed against the morning light as long as possible, thank you, Lord, that I can see. There are many who are blind.

Even though I huddle in my bed and put off the physical effort of rising, thank you, Lord, that I have the strength to rise. There are many who are bedfast.

Even though the first hour of my day is hectic, when socks are lost, toast is burned, tempers are short, thank you, Lord, for my family. There are many who are lonely.

Even though our table never looks like the pictures in the magazines and the menu is at times unbalanced. Thank you, Lord, for the food we have. There are many who are hungry.

Even though the routine of my job is often monotonous, thank you, Lord, for the opportunity to work. There are many who have no work.

Thank you, Lord, for the gift of life. - Source Unknown

“Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ;” - Ephesians 5:20

Giving thanks is an evidence of being filled (controlled) by the Holy Spirit! Are you daily allowing Him to control you in all areas of your life?

If you do not belong to the Lord Jesus, come to Him NOW!

“For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.” - Romans 6:23

Pastor Fred Johnson, Editor of Daily Insights

LOVE & LIVE PASSIONATELY FOR CHRIST!

HIS HAND IS BIGGER THAN MINE

12/22/20

A young boy went to the local store with his mother. The shop owner, a kindly man, passed him a large jar of suckers and invited him to help himself to a handful. Uncharacteristically, the boy held back. So the shop owner pulled out a handful for him. When outside, the boy’s mother asked why he had suddenly been so shy and wouldn’t take a handful of suckers when offered. The boy replied, “Because his hand is much bigger than mine!”

Source: Unknown

“For the Lord God is a sun and shield;

The Lord will give grace and glory;

No good thing will He withhold

From those who walk uprightly.” - Psalm 84:11

When we rely on ourselves and others to meet our needs instead of the Lord, we rob ourselves of so many blessings! It is so much better and wiser to trust Him to supply all our needs in the ways He chooses!

If Jesus Christ is not your Lord and Savior, come to him NOW!

“For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.”

Romans 10:13

Pastor Fred Johnson, Editor of Daily Insights

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AFRAID OF THE MASTER’S TOUCH

12/21/20

Mendelssohn once visited the cathedral at Fribourg, and having heard the great organ, went into the organ loft and asked to be allowed to play it. The old organist, in jealousy for his instrument, at first refused, but was afterward prevailed on to allow the great German composer to try the colossal “thunderer” of the cathedral. After standing by in an ecstasy of delight and amazement for a few moments, he suddenly laid his hands on the shoulders of the musician and exclaimed: “Who are you? What is your name?”

“Mendelssohn,” replied the player.

“And can it be that I had so nearly refused to let Mendelssohn touch this organ!”

Christians often refuse to let God have His way in their life because they are afraid of the outcome. Little do they know that if they would let God do as He sees fit the outcome would be much greater than anything they could dream of.

Source: The Homiletic Review, Volume 31, I. K. Funk and D. S. Gregory

“8 O taste and see that the Lord is good: blessed is the man that trusteth in him.

9 O fear the Lord, ye his saints: for there is no want to them that fear him.

10 The young lions do lack, and suffer hunger: but they that seek the Lord shall not want any good thing. - Psalm 34

Ah, yes, you can trust the Lover of your soul regarding every area of your life!

If you are not one of His, come to the Lord Jesus NOW!

“I tell you, no; but unless you repent you will all likewise perish.”

(Jesus – Luke 13:3, 5

“He who has the Son has life; he who does not have the Son of God does not have life.” - 1 John 5:12

Pastor Fred Johnson, Editor Daily Insights

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THIS IS THE TIME TO GIVE

12/20/20

Marquis de Lafayette was a French officer who provided invaluable assistance to George Washington and the struggling American army. After the war was over, he returned to France and resumed his life as a farmer of many estates. In 1783, the harvest was a terrible one, and there were many who suffered as a result. Lafayette’s farms were unaffected by the devastating crop failures. One of his workers offered what seemed to be good advice to Lafayette, “The bad harvest has raised the price of wheat. This is the time to sell.” After thinking about the hungry peasants in the surrounding villages, Lafayette disagreed and said, “No, this is the time to give.”

God blesses us not just for our own benefit, but also so that we can be a blessing to others in need. The tendency to hoard and try to build up more and more is a dangerous one, and the best antidote to greed is to be a generous giver. There is certainly no shortage of people in need today, and while we cannot meet every need, if we do what we can, God will multiply resources so that it is enough.

Source: Lesson Commentary, September 2008-August 2009, Daniel Lioy

“Distributing (contributing) to the necessity of saints; given to hospitality.” - Romans 12:13

“Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.” - Galatians 6:7

Every born-again child of God ought to be a generous person, showing forth the generous character of their Lord and Savior. If we are generous, the Lord will meet all our needs!

We need to meet needs of those who do not belong to the Lord Jesus, as He leads, so that we can show and share the love of Christ with them.

If you are not one of His, come to the Lord Jesus NOW!

“Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.” - Acts 4:12

Pastor Fred Johnson, Editor of Daily Insights

LOVE & LIVE PASSIONATELY FOR CHRIST!

THE RIGHT REFLECTION

12/19/20

Somewhere in the beginning of each day, you probably find yourself looking at your reflection in the mirror. Many of us never give a second thought as to how that reflection is produced. All surfaces reflect some light, but only a special type of surface reflects light in such a way that it can form a mirror. In 1835 German chemist Justis von Liebig devised a process for coating plates of glass with metallic silver. This was the beginning of the mirror as we know it today and helped it become a common household item. The mirrors in our homes are made in similar fashion by evaporating a very thin layer of silver onto glass.

We see that God likens His Word to a mirror in James 1:22-25, “For if any be a hearer of the word, and not a doer, he is like unto a man beholding his natural face in a glass: For he beholdeth himself, and goeth his way, and straightway forgetteth what manner of man he was. But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed.” As we look into God’s Word, it reveals who we really are in light of His holiness.

God also teaches us that He wants our hearts and lives to be mirrors that reflect His glory and grace. Paul wrote in 1 Corinthians 15:49, “And as we have borne the image of the earthy, we shall also bear the image of the heavenly.” He expressed it this way in his second letter to the believers at Corinth, “For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ” (2 Corinthians 4:6).

Are you the mirror that God wants you to be? Just as it takes that right material (silver, which is a precious metal) to make the best mirrors, God desires for our hearts to be filled with His Spirit so that we can be a clear reflection of His glory. The Apostle Paul states this truth in Second Corinthians 3:18 when he wrote, “But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord.” As we allow the Holy Spirit of God to control our lives, He can make us the right reflections He has purposed for us to be.

Submitted by Clark Graham

Are you daily submitting to the Lordship of Christ and the control; of the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 5:18) so that you reflect the Lord Jesus in all areas of your life?

Pastor Fred Johnson, Editor of Daily Insights

THE BIBLE CHANGES OUR PERSPECTIVE

12/18/20

A certain missionary society, in order to gain access for a missionary to work in some of the African tribes, sent down trinkets to be bartered with the natives. Among them was a package of little hand mirrors, such as ladies use.

The natives had never seen their own faces except in the waters of some lake or stream. So the news of this wonderful instrument by which people could see their features was spread abroad. The missionary was invited by the tribe after tribe to visit them with his hand glass.

In the interior was a princess in one of the tribes who had been told that she was the most beautiful woman on earth. When she heard of this instrument in which she might see what a beautiful creature she was, she bade the missionary bring one of the mirrors. (The truth was, the princess was the least attractive woman in the tribe.)

She took the mirror into the hut to take a good, long look at her beauty. When she held up the glass and saw what she really looked like she lifted her royal fist, dashed the glass to pieces, banished the missionary, and made a law that no looking glass should ever be brought into the tribe again.

Why did the princess hate the glass? Because it told her the truth about herself—that she was an ugly woman—and she did not like it.

For some reason people turn away from the Bible. It tells man that all of his righteousnesses are as filthy rags in God’s sight.

Source: The Gold Mine, Lee Roberson

Submitted by the homiletics class of West Coast Baptist College

“But we are all as an unclean thing, and all our righteousnesses are as filthy rags; and we all do fade as a leaf; and our iniquities, like the wind, have taken us away.” - Isaiah 64:6

God’s Word will change our perspective regarding ourselves, others, our desires and plans, what is important, etc. Adjust your life with the mirror of His Word!

If Jesus Christ is not your Lord and Savior, surrender your life to Him NOW!

“For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.” - Romans 6:23

Pastor Fred Johnson, Editor of Daily Insights

WORDS THAT PAINT A PORTRAIT

12/17/20

It was 1898 and Ben had left the East 8 years ago to head out West in hopes of making his fortune. Well he wasn't rich, but he had accumulated over 300 acres of good land and built a comfortable farm house on it. He raised wheat, corn, and all of his vegetables. He had managed to build his herd of cattle to over 200 head. Having accomplished all of this in only 8 years, he decided that it was now time.

The ad that he placed in the New York newspaper said, “Wanted: A good woman willing to be a pen pal. Marriage is a possibility for the right woman.”

Before long, he began receiving letters from Molly. Their correspondence soon turned into love for each other. Now, here he stood in the Kansas City train station waiting to finally meet her. When the train arrived, there were a lot of women getting off. Suddenly, he yelled, “Molly, over here!” She looked his way, walked over to him, smiled and held out her hand. He took it for a moment, then let it go. She said, “How did you know who I was?”

He then reached into the back pocket of his overalls and said, “From these here letters.”

“But there are no pictures in them.”

He dropped his head a bit and said,

“Oh yes there are! There are lots of pictures in your words.” You see, he had spent hours reading every word—looking for every little clue that would tell him who Molly really was. He had fallen in love with her words—words that had painted her portrait.

God's precious Word paints a vivid portrait of who He is. We as His bride should fall in love with His Word so that we can then fall in love with its Author.

Source: Many a Tear Has to Fall, Wayne Hudson

Submitted by the homiletics class of West Coast Baptist College

“Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind.”

Matthew 22:37

Are you reading the Bible, the Lord’s love letter to you and seeing all the beauty of His character and loving Him with your entire being?

If He is not your Lord and Savior, come to Him NOW!

“Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.” - Acts 4:12

Pastor Fred Johnson, Editor of Daily Insights

LOVE & LIVE PASSIONATELY FOR CHRIST!

OBEDIENCE IS BETTER THAN SACRIFICE

12/16/20

A businessman well known for his ruthlessness once announced to writer Mark Twain, “Before I die I mean to make a pilgrimage to the Holy Land. I will climb Mount Sinai and read the Ten Commandments aloud at the top.”

”I have a better idea,” replied Twain. “You could stay in Boston and keep them.”

Source: Today in the Word, September 1991, Moody Bible Institute

Submitted by the homiletics class of West Coast Baptist College

“And Samuel said, Hath the Lord as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the Lord? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams.” - 1 Samuel 15:22

You can go to church, tithe, give beyond the tithe, do other acts of service but you cannot bribe the Lord. He commands obedience to His Word in all matters. If we fail to do so, we will not enjoy the results of our disobedience. Obedience proves our love for Him! “If ye love me, keep my commandments” (John 14:15).

If you do not belong to the Lord Jesus, surrender your life to Him NOW! Receive Him as your Lord and Savior, before it is too late!

“He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life.” - 1 John 5:12

Pastor Fred Johnson, Editor of Daily Insights

LOVE & LIVE PASSIONATELY FOR CHRIST!

MAN SWALLOWED BY A WHALE

12/15/20

In February 1891, the Star of the East was whale hunting off the Falkland Islands in the South Atlantic. While pursuing a large sperm whale, one of the two boats was capsized by the leviathan. The hunters went on to kill the whale but feared two of their men had drowned. James Bartley was one of the missing fishermen. The crew mourned their loss but also had a tremendous task of preparing this giant sea monster. They worked until midnight removing blubber from the eighty-foot long, eighty-ton fish. The next morning they hoisted the whale's stomach on deck. To their surprise, they saw faint movement.

M. de Parville, science editor of the Journal des Debats, investigated the incident. He verified that James Bartley was indeed the reason for the movement. When the stomach was cut open, Bartley was found unconscious. He was bathed in seawater and placed in the captain’s quarters for two weeks. He was confused and mentally disturbed. Yet, in four weeks he had fully recovered and was able to recount his experience. For the rest of his life he carried the scars of a bleached white face, neck, and hands from the whale’s gastric acid.

Source: Parables Etc, October, 1993

Submitted by the Homiletics class of West Coast Baptist College

“And the Lord spake unto the fish, and it vomited out Jonah upon the dry land.” Jonah 2:10

The Lord can use dramatic ways to get our attention and yield to His will in all areas of our lives or use calmer ways. It is best to develop a close, intimate relationship with Him and just spontaneously obey Him in all matters. Then we, will save ourselves a lot of hurt and enjoy His richest blessings!

If you are not one of His, come to the Lord Jesus NOW!

“Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.” - Acts 4:12

Pastor Fred Johnson, Editor of Daily Insights

LOVE & LIVE PASSIONATELY FOR CHRIST!

FINDING THE TEN COMMANDMENTS

12/14/20

Finding the Ten Commandments can be a challenge for many adults (Exodus 20). Imagine the looks a Sunday School teacher got when she inquired of their whereabouts in a class for five-year-olds. After a few moments of blank stares she asked again, “Can anybody tell me where to find the Ten Commandments?” Finally, a little kid offered, “Have you looked them up in the Yellow Pages?”

Source: King's Treasury of Dynamic Humor, King Duncan

Submitted by the homiletics class of West Coast Baptist College

“Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” - 2 Timothy 2:15

Such ignorance of God’s Word is horrible and, sadly, there is a lot of ignorance among adults, which leads to great devastation in personal, family lives and the condition of our nation.

Are you a true student of God’s Word?

If Jesus Christ is not your Lord and Savior, come to Him NOW!

“For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.”

Romans 6:23

Pastor Fred Johnson, Editor of Daily Insights

LOVE & LIVE PASSIONATELY FOR CHRIST!

BEING FILLED WITH THE SPIRIT

12/13/20

A walk in the Spirit will of necessity be a walk in accordance with the Word the Spirit has inspired. The parallel between Ephesians 5:18-21 and Colossians 3:15-17 is significant. The same results are said to flow from being filled with the Spirit in the first cast, and being filled with the Word in the second. To remain filled with the Spirit, and thus enjoy His continuing sanctifying work, will mean continuing to be filled with the Word. The relationship is obvious.

Source: Enjoying Intimacy With God, J.O. Sanders

Submitted by the homiletics class of West Coast Baptist College

“And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit;” - Ephesians 5:18

To be filled (controlled) by the Holy Spirit, you must know the Word of God and be willing to submit to its authority and, therefore, the Spirit’s authority for every area of your life. Then the Holy Spirit will glorify the Father and Lord Jesus in every area of your life.

If you do not belong to the Lord Jesus, come to Him NOW!

“Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.” - Acts 4:12

Pastor Fred Johnson, Editor of Daily Insights

LOVE & LIVE PASSIONATELY FOR CHRIST!

ABOUT THE BIBLE

12/12/20

An unknown writer said, “This Book is the mind of God, the state of man, the way of salvation, the doom of sinners, and the happiness of believers. Its doctrines are holy, its precepts are binding; its histories are true, and its decisions are immutable. Read it to be wise, believe it to be safe, practice it to be holy. It contains light to direct you, food to support you, and comfort to cheer you. It is the traveler’s map, the pilgrim’s staff, the pilot’s compass, the soldier’s sword, and the Christian’s character. Christ is its grand subject, our good its design, and the glory of God its end. It should fill the memory, rule the heart, and guide the feet. Read it slowly, frequently, prayerfully. It is a mine of wealth, a paradise of glory, and a river of pleasure.”

Submitted by the homiletics class of West Coast Baptist College

“For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart.” - Hebrews 4:12

If Jesus Christ is not your Lord and Savior, repent of all your sin (Luke 13:3,5) and surrender your life to Him NOW, while you can!

“Whoever has the Son has life; whoever does not have the Son of God does not have life.” - 1 John 5:12

Pastor Fred Johnson, Editor of Daily Insights

LOVE & LIVE PASSIONATELY FOR CHRIST!

FELIX VALUED HIS BIBLE MORE THAN HIS LIFE

12/11/20

In the year A.D. 303, the Roman Emperor Diocletian issued a decree which he hoped would extinguish the spreading flames of Christianity. One of his primary objectives was the seizure and destruction of the Bible. Later that year, officials enforced the decree in North Africa. One of the targets was Felix, Bishop of Tibjuca, a village near Carthage. The mayor of the town ordered Felix to hand over his Scriptures.

Though some judges were willing to accept scraps of parchment, Felix refused to surrender the Word of God at the insistence of mere men. Roman authorities finally shipped Felix to Italy where he paid for his stubbornness with his life. He laid down his life rather than surrender his Bible.

Source: The Awesome Power of Shared Beliefs, E. Glen Wagner

Submitted by the homiletics class of West Coast Baptist College

“O how love I thy law! it is my meditation all the day.”

Psalm 119:97

Every born-again child of God ought to passionately love the Word of God and the Incarnated Word, the Lord Jesus Christ, and live their life according to its directions to the praise and the glory of the Lord Jesus. Does that describe you?

If He is not your Lord and Savior, come to the Lord Jesus NOW, before it is too late!

“He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life.”

1 John 5:12

Pastor Fred Johnson, Editor of Daily Insights

LOVE & LIVE PASSIONATELY FOR CHRIST!

7 WONDERS OF THE BIBLE

12-10-20

1. The wonder of its formation—the way in which it grew is one of the mysteries of time.

2. The wonder of its unification—it is a library of 66 books, yet one book.

3. The wonder of its age—it is the most ancient of all books.

4. The wonder of its sale—it is the best-seller of all time.

5. The wonder of its interest—it is the only book in the world read by all classes of people.

6. The wonder of its language—it was written largely by uneducated men, yet it is the best book from a literary standpoint.

7. The wonder of its preservation—it is the most hated of all books, yet it continues to exist.

Source: Encyclopedia of 7700 Illustrations, Paul L. Tan

Submitted by the homiletics class of West Coast Baptist College

“Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever.” - 1 Peter 1:23

I am so thankful that the Lord has revealed Himself, his plans and purposes, His will, the way of salvation and how to please Him regarding every area of our lives in His Word!

If you are not one of His, come to the Lord Jesus NOW!

“For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved” - Romans 10:13.

Pastor Fred Johnson, Editor of Daily Insights

LOVE & LIVE PASSIONATELY FOR CHRIST!

UNOPENED LETTERS

12/09/20

Elizabeth Barrett’s father disapproved of her marriage to Robert browning so strongly that he never forgave her. She wrote letters to her father seeking reconciliation, but he returned them unopened. Had he opened them, and read the beautiful language she used, he may have forgiven her. The Bible is God’s letter to give us reconciliation, yet many people never read it.

Source: Encyclopedia Britannica, Hugh Chisholm

“All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:

That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.” - 2 Timothy 3:16-17

If we do not read and obey God’s Word, we will not live for His glory as we should, and we will miss out on His richest blessings in every area of our lives. So, be a diligent student of our Lord’s Word!

If Jesus Christ is not your Lord and Savior, come to Him NOW!

“Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.”

Acts 4:12

Pastor Fred Johnson, Editor of Daily Insights

LOVE & LIVE PASSIONATELY FOR CHRIST!

IMPROVING ON MILK

12/08/20

Two cows were grazing in a pasture when they saw a milk truck pass. On the side of the truck were the words, “Pasteurized, homogenized, standardized, vitamin A added.” One cow sighed and said to the other, “Makes you feel sort of inadequate, doesn’t it?”

People try to improve on milk, but one thing you will never be able to improve on is the Word of God. It does not need any pasteurizing, standardizing, or homogenizing.

Source: Unknown

“The law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple.

The statutes of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart: the commandment of the Lord is pure, enlightening the eyes.”

Psalm 19:7-8

Yes, the Word of God is perfect because the Author, God Himself, is perfect. His Word is right on every subject. If we submit to the authority of the Lord Jesus and His Word in every area of our lives, we will experience success and His richest blessings.

If you do not belong to the Lord Jesus, come to Him NOW!

“For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.” - Romans 6:23

Pastor Fred Johnson, Editor of Daily Insights

LOVE & LIVE PASSIONATELY FOR CHRIST!

HUNGER MAKES FOR A GOOD MEAL

12/07/20

The French have a proverb, which states, “A good meal ought to begin with hunger.” It is hard to enjoy a meal when you are not yet hungry. But, when you are hungry, anything tastes good.

If we approach the Word with a hunger to be satisfied, we will be satisfied every time. Effective worship begins with a hunger for God.

Source: The Facts on File, Martin Manser

“Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled.” - Matthew 5:6

“O God, thou art my God; early will I seek thee: my soul thirsteth for thee, my flesh longeth for thee in a dry and thirsty land, where no water is;” - Psalm 63:1

If we hunger for the Lord, His fellowship, His Word and His will, He will satisfy us with His power and richest blessings!

If Jesus Christ is not your Lord and Savior, come to Him NOW!

“Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.”

Acts 4:12

Pastor Fred Johnson, Editor of Daily Insights

LOVE & LIVE PASSIONATELY FOR CHRIST!

TOO BUSY NOT TO PRAY

12-06-20

George Mueller said: “I look upon it as a lost day when I have not had a good time over the Word of God. Friends often say, ‘I have so much to do, so many people to see, I cannot find time for Scripture study.’ Perhaps there are not many who have more to do than I. For more than half a century I have never known one day when I had not more business than I could get through. For 4 years I have had annually about 30,000 letters, and most of these have passed through my own hands.

“Then, as pastor of a church with 1,200 believers, great has been my care. Besides, I have had charge of 5 immense orphanages; also, at my publishing depot, the printing and circulating of millions of tracts, books, and Bibles; but I have always made it a rule never to begin work until I have had a good season with God and His Word. The blessing I have received has been wonderful.”

Source: A Journey to Victorious Praying, Bill Thrasher

“Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.”

2 Timothy 2:15

“Pray without ceasing.”

1 Thessalonians 5:17

If we fail to be in His Word and the fellowship of our Lord each day, we will miss out on His richest blessings and fail to experience His power for all our daily responsibilities. We will fail to bear superabundant fruit to the praise of His glory!

If Jesus Christ is not your Lord and Savior, come to Him NOW!

“He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life.”

1 John 5:12

Pastor Fred Johnson, Editor of Daily Insights

LOVE & LIVE PASSIONATELY FOR CHRIST!

FOLLOW THE INSTRUCTIONS

12/05/20

The story is told of an old man who was wandering in the desert looking for water. He approached an old shack and on the porch area he found a water pump. Next to the water pump he saw a one gallon jug. A note on the jug said, “Use all the water to prime the pump.” The man’s instincts said to drink the water and not trust the pump. Nevertheless he poured the water into the pump and began pumping until an abundance of cool water came to the top.

The Bible is like the note on that water jug. Sometimes the instructions contained in the Bible do not make sense to us, but it is always right.

Source: Unknown

“For the word of the LORD is right; and all his works are done in truth.” - Psalm 33:4

When we follow the instructions of God’s Word for every area of our lives, we will enjoy the results as the old man did regarding the water!

If Jesus Christ is not your Lord and Savior, ccome to Him NOW, whild you can!

“For whoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.”

Romans 10:13

Pastor Fred Johnson, Editor of Daily Insights

LOVE & LIVE PASSIONATELY FOR CHRIST!

THE BIBLE IS LIKE A TELESCOPE

12/04/20

The Bible is like a telescope. If a man looks through his telescope he sees worlds beyond; but if he looks at his telescope, he does not see anything but that. The Bible is a thing to be looked through to see that which is beyond; but most people only look at it and so they see only the letter of the law.

Source: One Thousand Gems, Henry Ward Beecher

“The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave unto him, to shew unto his servants things which must shortly come to pass; and he sent and signified it by his angel unto his servant John:” - Revelation 1:11

Those who don’t belong to the Lord Jesus and many Christians, who are not students of the Word of God, are ignorant regarding the future and the Lord’s plans. I am glad that He has given vital information in His Word, which produces great confidence for daily living.

Are you looking through the telescope of the Bible?

If you do not belong to the Lord Jesus, come to Him NOW!

“He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life.” - 1 John 5:12

Pastor Fred Johnson, Editor of Daily Insights

LOVE & LIVE PASSIONATELY FOR CHRIST!

HE WAS DETERMINED TO READ THE BIBLE

12/03/20

William McPherson was the superintendent for a stone quarry when a blast severely injured him. He lost his eyesight and both hands in the explosion. He was determined to read the Bible, and learned to read raised letters with the tip of his tongue. It is said that he read through the Bible four times in this manner.

Source: Annual Report of the American Bible Society, Volume 97

“More to be desired are they than gold, yea, than much fine gold: sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb.” - Psalm 19:10

(referring to the Word of God)

Unless we have the same love for the Lord and His Word as William McPherson, we will not know our Lord intimately, His joy, purposes, and power in our lives.

If Jesus Christ is not your Lord and Savior, come to Him NOW!

“For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.” - Romans 6:23

Pastor Fred Johnson, Editor of Daily Insights

LOVE & LIVE PASSIONATELY FOR CHRIST!

GRASPING A SHADOW

12/02/20

Henry Martyn, a Cambridge University student, was honored at only 20 years of age for his achievements in mathematics. In fact, he was given the highest recognition possible in that field. And yet he felt an emptiness inside. He said that instead of finding fulfillment in his achievements, he had, “Only grasped a shadow.”

After evaluating his life’s goals, Martyn sailed to India as a missionary at the age of 24. When he arrived, he prayed, “Lord, let me burn out for You.” In the next 7 years that preceded his death, he translated the New Testament into three difficult Eastern languages.

Source: Facing Loneliness, J. Oswald Sanders

Submitted by the homiletics class of West Coast Baptist College

“For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.” – Philippians 1:21

How would you describe your life? Do you feel that you have “only grasped a shadow” or are you experiencing satisfying fulfillment because you are doing the will of your Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ and are producing superabundant fruit to the praise of His glory?

If He is not your Lord and Savior, come to Him NOW!

“For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.”

Romans 10:13

Pastor Fred Johnson, Editor of Daily Insights

LOVE & LIVE PASSIONATELY FOR CHRIST!

DO YOU KNOW THE SHEPHERD?

12/01/20

May years ago, one of England’s leading actors was asked to recite for the pleasure of his fellow guests. He consented and asked if there was anything special that his audience would like to hear.

After a moment’s pause, an old clergyman present said: “Could you, sir, recite to us the Twenty-third Psalm?”

A strange look passed over the actor’s face; he paused for a moment, and then said: “I can, and I will, upon one condition; and that is that after I have recited it, you, my friend, will do the same.”

“I?” said the clergyman, in surprise. “But I am not an elocutionist. However, if you wish it, I will do so.”

Impressively, the great actor began the psalm. His voice and his intonation were perfect. He held his audience spell bound; and as he finished, a great burst of applause broke from the guests.

Then, as it died away, the old clergyman arose and began the psalm. His voice was not remarkable; his intonation was not faultless. When he had finished, no sound of applause broke the silence—but there was not a dry eye in the room, and many heads were bowed.

Then the actor rose to his feet again. His voice shook as he laid his hand upon the shoulder of the old clergyman and said: “I reached your eyes and ears, my friends; he reached your hearts.The difference is just this—I know the Twenty-third Psalm, but he knows the Shepherd.”

Source: The War Cry.

Submitted by the homiletics class of West Coast Baptist College

Read Psalm 23

“I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep.” - John 10:11

Are you daily submitting to the Lordship of Jesus Christ, the Good Shepherd, your Lord and Savior, letting Him lead and direct you in every area of your life?

If He is not your Lord and Savior, come to Him NOW!

“For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.” - Romans 6:23

Pastor Fred Johnson, Editor of Daily Insights

LOVE & LIVE PASSIONATELY FOR CHRIST!

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