Odis Crusterson’s Post

*RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL* *HE CLEANSES YOU FROM ALL SINS* Monday, December 9th . Pastor Chris _*In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins (Colossians 1:14).*_ Our opening verse says in Christ Jesus we have redemption (riddance) through His blood, and then in the concluding part, it says, _*"...even the forgiveness of sins."*_ That word "even" is in parenthesis, which means it wasn't in the original text. The translators inserted it by their own prerogative, but it was wrongly applied. The correct conjunction is the word "and": "In whom we have redemption through his blood, and the forgiveness of sins." To say "In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins" suggests that "we have redemption of sins through His blood, meaning the forgiveness of sins." But that's not true, because they are two different things: first, in Christ Jesus, we have our riddance or redemption, and secondly, we have our freedom from sins (forgiveness). We're free from sins. That means you don't have to sin. You don't have to keep watching to be sure that you don't sin; rather, just keep walking in righteousness; keep walking in the light in His Word—His Word is light (Psalm 119:105). 1 John 1:7 says, _*"But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin."*_ This happens automatically. As you walk in the light of God's Word, and in fellowship with other Christians, He automatically cleanses you from all sins. Sin is everywhere because man's world has been polluted. But the Lord cleanses you from all sins, including sins you didn't necessarily commit but rubbed off on you. This was the reason they had all kinds of ceremonial "washings" in the Old Testament. If they wanted to go into the presence of God, they'd wash their hands and their feet; they had to wash all the time. But it's not so today: the blood of Jesus Christ Himself cleanses us from all sin automatically. He takes care of any sin, whether from someone else, from the environment, etc., so that you can keep walking your way through life in victory, from glory to glory. Hallelujah! Then in John 15:3, He says, _*"Now ye are clean through the word which I have spoken unto you."*_ It's the ministry of the Word to cleanse you of sin, guilt, and all unrighteousness so you can walk in perfection and excellence, producing works and fruits of righteousness. *PRAYER* *Dear Father, I thank you for my new life in Christ, a life of righteousness with freedom from sin. Thank you for the continuous cleansing that comes from walking in the light of your Word. I walk in perfection and excellence, producing works and fruits of righteousness, in Jesus' Name. Amen.*

The Body of Christ Ephesians 4:16 says, “He makes the whole body fit together perfectly. As each part does its own special work, it helps the other parts grow, so that the whole body is healthy and growing and full of love.” If you are a Christian, then you are part of the body of Christ. Each part of that body has a different function just like every part of your own body has a function and serves a great purpose. Christ is the head of that body and holds the entire thing together. Just like this verse says, the body of Christ fits together perfectly. Think about that for a minute. God created a perfect puzzle to fit together. Are there people in the body of Christ that you do not get along with, or perhaps do not like? According to this verse, they have a purpose, and they fit together perfectly with you and the rest of the body. As Christians, we should want to strengthen all parts of the body. If there’s a part that maybe isn’t as strong, then we should want to encourage and support that part of the body. Just like if you hurt your arm or another part of your body, you would need help to strengthen it back to where it was before, maybe through physical therapy, or another means. If a part of the body of Christ is struggling, then it is our job to strengthen and encourage that person. Think about this the next time you get in an argument with someone, or get mad at someone who knows the Lord. Spend some time today, in prayer, asking God to help you love all members of the body and thanking him for Christ, the head of the body.

*RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL* *YOUR PRESENT AND PERMANENT PLACE OF DOMICILE* Thursday, December 5th . Pastor Chris _*Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son (Colossians 1:13).*_ Our opening scripture says God has transferred us from the domain of darkness into the Kingdom of His Love-Son. That's where you are now. The transfer wasn't a process; it's not something that happens from time to time; it's already been effectuated, and it was a permanent transfer. Your present and permanent place of domicile is the Kingdom of God's Love-Son. The question is: do you realize you're in His Kingdom? It's important to know this because it means you're not under the dominion of Satan. You're seated together with Christ, _*"Far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come"*_ (Ephesians 1:21). Recall what the Bible says about our Lord Jesus Christ in 1 Timothy 6:15-16: He's the _*"...blessed and only Potentate, the King of kings, and Lord of lords; Who only hath immortality, dwelling in the light which no man can approach unto...."*_ In other words, He only has immortality (life, "deathlessness") and dwells in unapproachable light. He is light, and in Him is no darkness at all (1 John 1:5), and you're in Him. That means in you, there's no darkness, no sickness, disease or infirmity, nothing of Satan because you were born into God's Kingdom of light—His marvellous light: _*"But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light"*_ (1 Peter 2:9). If this is true, and thank God it is, how can you have cancer? Where will diabetes, hypertension, heart condition, migraine headache, etc., come from since you presently and permanently dwell in the Kingdom of God's Love-Son where there's no darkness but light; where life and immortality reign? How can the devil oppress you when you're not under his jurisdiction? In Luke 10:19, the Lord said, _*"Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall by any means hurt you."*_ It's the reason you can say, "In the Name of Jesus, I refuse to accommodate Satan and anything from him; I belong in the Kingdom of God's Love-Son, Jesus Christ, with dominion over Satan, sickness, disease, death and the demons of darkness." Hallelujah! *CONFESSION* *I'm in the Kingdom of God's Love-Son, where there's no darkness, disease, failure or death. I'm seated with Christ, far above all principality, power, might, dominion and everything that's named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come. Amen.*

Jesus Found Him 'Jesus heard that they had cast him out; and when he had found him, he said unto him, Dost thou believe on the Son of God?' -John 9:35 It is one thing to seek God; it is quite another thing to have God seek you. Jesus sought this man out when others had forsaken him. The acceptance of Jesus is worth more than everything this world has to offer This is what enables the believer to endure and even leap for joy amidst persecution. When our sufferings in Christ abound, then the consolation of Christ abounds much more. Notice that this man's parents, who knew the truth, but refused to share it for fear of persecution, did not have Jesus seeking them out (Jn. 9:22). They chose the company of the hypocritical scribes and Pharisees, which is exactly what they got. Even though the believer is redeemed and delivered from many afflictions that were a result of sin and its power, we are still called to partake in what the scriptures call the 'sufferings or afflictions of Christ' (2 Cor. 1:5; Col. 1:24). However, these afflictions are not sickness and poverty as some religious teachings suggest. These afflictions are described as the 'fellowship of sufferings' that the believer will encounter for doing the will of God, or the sufferings brought on by one's allegiance to Christ. Persecution for righteousness' sake is not something that we can rebuke (2 Tim. 3:12). We must remember that as we live godly lives, suffering will follow. The Apostle Peter reminds us that these trials of our faith will result in praise, honor and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ (1 Pet. 1:7). Jesus' comfort, strength, help, and love are ready to 'overflow' into every 'trial' that we face if we will only look to Him (Heb. 12:2).

Luke 23:45 "and the veil of the temple was torn in two." This is a significant event that symbolizes Jesus Christ's work on the cross. The temple had three parts: 1. The courts for all the people 2. The Holy Place - where only priests could enter 3. The Most Holy Place - where the high priest alone could enter once a year to atone for the sins of the people. It was in the Most Holy Place that the ark of the covenant, and God's presence with it, rested. The veil (curtain) that was torn, was the one that closed off the Most Holy Place from view. When Jesus Christ died on the cross, the barrier between God and man, was torn (split) in two. Now all people can approach God directly through Jesus Christ: Hebrews 9:1-15 "Then indeed, even the first covenant had ordinances of divine service and the earthly sanctuary. For a tabernacle was prepared: the first part, in which was the lampstand, the table, and the showbread, which is called the sanctuary; and behind the second veil, the part of the tabernacle which is called the Holiest of All, which had the golden censer and the ark of the covenant overlaid on all sides with gold, in which were the golden pot that had the manna, Aaron’s rod that budded, and the tablets of the covenant; and above it were the cherubim of glory overshadowing the mercy seat. Of these things we cannot now speak in detail. Now when these things had been thus prepared, the priests always went into the first part of the tabernacle, performing the services. But into the second part the high priest went alone once a year, not without blood, which he offered for himself and for the people’s sins committed in ignorance; the Holy Spirit indicating this, that the way into the Holiest of All was not yet made manifest while the first tabernacle was still standing. It was symbolic for the present time in which both gifts and sacrifices are offered which cannot make him who performed the service perfect in regard to the conscience— concerned only with foods and drinks, various washings, and fleshly ordinances imposed until the time of reformation. But Christ came as High Priest of the good things to come, with the greater and more perfect tabernacle not made with hands, that is, not of this creation. Not with the blood of goats and calves, but with His own blood He entered the Most Holy Place once for all, having obtained eternal redemption. For if the blood of bulls and goats and the ashes of a heifer, sprinkling the unclean, sanctifies for the purifying of the flesh, how much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered Himself without spot to God, cleanse your conscience from dead works to serve the living God? And for this reason He is the Mediator of the new covenant, by means of death, for the redemption of the transgressions under the first covenant, that those who are called may receive the promise of the eternal inheritance." #Created_To_Worship_Ministries_SA

The wisdom of the fathers THE FULL BLESSING OF PENTECOST Part 4 HOW IT IS TO BE TAUGHT To lead believers to the Holy Spirit, the great lack in their life must be pointed out to them. This was manifestly the intention in Paul s question: "Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you believed ?" Just as only those that are thirsty will drink water with eagerness and only those that are sick will desire a physician, so it is only when believers are prepared to acknowledge the defective and sinful character of their spiritual condition, that the preaching of the full blessing of Pentecost will find an entrance into their hearts. So long as Christians imagine that the only thing lacking in their life is more earnestness, or more importunity, or more strength, and that if they only obtain these benefits they themselves will become all they ought to be, the preaching of a full salvation will be of little avail. It is only when the discovery is made that they are not standing in a right attitude towards the Holy Spirit, that they have only His preparatory operations, but do not yet know and honour Him in His indwelling, that the way to something higher will ever be open or even be desired. For this discovery, it is indispensable that the question should be put to each, man by man, as pointedly and as personally as may be: "Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you believed ? " When the answer shall take the shape of a deeply felt and utterly sincere Alas! the time of revival is not far off. Believers must receive help to appropriate this blessing in faith. In the Acts of the Apostles we read often about laying on of hands and prayer. Even a man like Paul whose conversion was due to the direct interposition of the Lord and had to receive the Spirit through laying on of hands and prayer on the part of Ananias. This implies that there must be amongst ministers of the gospel and believers generally a power of the Spirit which makes them the channel of faith and courage to others. Those who are weak must be helped to appropriate the blessing for themselves. But those who have and bring this blessing, as well as those who desire to have it, must realise and acknowledge their absolute dependence on the Lord and expect all from Him. The gift of the Spirit is imparted only by God Himself. Every fresh bestowment of the Spirit comes from above. There must be frequent personal dealing with God. The minister of the Spirit whom God is to use for communicating the blessing, as well as the believer who is to receive it, must meet with God in immediate and closest intercourse. (from "The Full Blessing of Pentecost" by Andrew Murray)

Day 26: Be filled with the Holy Spirit challenge. 1 Corinthians 12:4-6 (NIV) "There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit distributes them. There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord. There are different kinds of working, but in all of them and in everyone it is the same God at work." Reflection: In the body of Christ, diversity is not only celebrated but essential. The Apostle Paul, in his letter to the Corinthians, emphasizes that the Holy Spirit bestows various gifts upon believers, yet all these gifts originate from the same Spirit. This diversity in gifting reflects the multifaceted nature of God’s work in the world and His church. Each of us has been uniquely crafted by God, equipped with particular talents, skills, and spiritual gifts. Some are called to teach, others to serve, some to prophesy, and others to administer. Despite these differences, we are united under one Spirit, one Lord, and one God. This unity in diversity is a testament to God’s creative and purposeful design. As we engage in this "Be Filled with the Holy Spirit" challenge, it's crucial to recognize and appreciate the various gifts within our community. By doing so, we can foster an environment where each person's contributions are valued and where the collective body can function effectively. Application: Identify Your Gifts: Spend time in prayer and self-reflection to discern the gifts God has given you. Consider taking a spiritual gifts inventory if you need guidance. Appreciate Others’ Gifts: Acknowledge and celebrate the gifts you see in others. Encourage them in their calling and find ways to collaborate in ministry. Serve Together: Seek opportunities to serve alongside others with different gifts. This collaboration can enhance the ministry’s effectiveness and demonstrate the unity of the Spirit. Pray for Unity: Pray that God would continue to knit His church together, celebrating the diversity of gifts and using them to advance His kingdom. Prayer: Heavenly Father, we thank You for the rich diversity of gifts You have bestowed upon Your people. Help us to recognize and celebrate these gifts, knowing that they all come from Your Spirit. Teach us to serve together in unity, using our diverse gifts to build up Your church and glorify Your name. May we be ever filled with Your Spirit, working in harmony for Your kingdom. In Jesus' name, we pray.

1 Peter 1 has a message to you who have been chosen of God and consecrated by the Spirit: Be free from fears, agitating passions and moral conflicts… 2 Who were chosen and foreknown by God the Father and consecrated (sanctified, made holy) by the Spirit to be obedient to Jesus Christ (the Messiah) and to be sprinkled with [His] blood: May grace (spiritual blessing) and peace be given you in increasing abundance [that spiritual peace to be [a]realized in and through Christ, [b]freedom from fears, agitating passions, and moral conflicts]. 3 Praised (honored, blessed) be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ (the Messiah)! By His boundless mercy we have been born again to an ever-living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, 4 [Born anew] into an inheritance which is beyond the reach of change and decay [imperishable], unsullied and unfading, reserved in heaven for you, 5 Who are being guarded (garrisoned) by God’s power through [your] faith [till you fully inherit that [c]final] salvation that is ready to be revealed [for you] in the last time. 6 [You should] be exceedingly glad on this account, though now for a little while you may be distressed by trials and suffer temptations, 7 So that [the genuineness] of your faith may be tested, [your faith] which is infinitely more precious than the perishable gold which is tested and purified by fire. [This proving of your faith is intended] to redound to [your] praise and glory and honor when Jesus Christ (the Messiah, the Anointed One) is revealed. 8 Without having seen Him, you love Him; though you do not [even] now see Him, you believe in Him and exult and thrill with inexpressible and glorious (triumphant, heavenly) joy. 9 [At the same time] you receive the result (outcome, consummation) of your faith, the salvation of your souls.

Knowing who you are ‘in Christ’ ‘‘I pray that the faith you share will make you understand every blessing we have in Christ.’’ Philemon 1:6 ERV If you’re struggling with self-worth, the answer is knowing what you have and who you are ‘in Christ’. Paul writes, ‘I pray that…you understand every blessing we have in Christ.’ Here are some practical steps you can take to increase your sense of confidence and self-worth: 1) Don’t speak negatively about yourself. Instead of focusing on your weaknesses and flaws, start acknowledging and verbalising every good thing you ‘have in Christ’. Peter writes: ‘By his divine power, God has given us everything we need for living a godly life. We have received all of this by coming to know him…he has given us great and precious promises. These are the promises that enable you to share his divine nature’ (2 Peter 1:3-4 NLT). 2) Avoid comparing yourself to others. One day Peter pointed to John and asked, ‘Lord, what about him?’ (John 21:21 NIV). Jesus corrected him by saying, ‘What is that to you? You must follow me’ (v. 22 NIV). Instead of comparing yourself with others, work on being conformed to the character qualities of Christ. 3) Let God determine your worth. As His redeemed child, God sees you clothed in the righteousness of Christ; therefore, you are always loved and accepted by Him (see 2 Corinthians 5:21). 4) Keep your flaws in perspective. It’s okay to see where you need to improve, but make sure you appreciate your progress. 5) Discover the true source of confidence. If you place your confidence in God, you can’t help but have a healthy attitude. So, do your best and leave the results to Him.

Divine Preparations: Time of Advent: From Christ in His Mysteries by Dom Columba Marmion, O.S.B. Part 2 . III . We ourselves have the happiness of believing in this Light "which enlighteneth every man that cometh into this world" (Jn 1:9). We live, moreover, in the blessed "fulness of time"; we are not deprived, like the Patriarchs, of seeing the reign of the Messias. If we are not of those who looked upon Christ in person and heard His words, those who beheld Him going about doing good everywhere, we have the signal happiness of belonging to those nations of which David sang that they should be Christ's inheritance. . And yet the Holy Spirit, Who governs the Church and is the first author of our sanctification, wills that each year the Church should consecrate four weeks in recalling to memory the long duration of the divine preparations, and that she should strive to place our souls in the interior dispositions in which the faithful Jews lived whilst awaiting the coming of the Messias. . You will perhaps immediately say: This preparation for Christ's coming, these longings, these expectations, all that was excellent for those living under the Old Covenant; but now that Christ has come, why this attitude which does not seem to be in accordance with the truth? . The reason for it is manifold. . To begin with, God wills to be praised and blessed in all His works. . All, indeed, are marked with His infinite wisdom: "Omnia in sapientia fecisti" (Ps 53:24); all are admirable both in their preparation and their realisation. This is above all true of those which have the glory of His Son for their direct end, for it is the will of the Father that this Son should be for ever exalted (Cf. Jn 12:25). God wills that we should admire His works, that we should return thanks to Him for having thus prepared, with so much wisdom and power, the kingdom of His Son amongst us: we enter into the divine thoughts when we recollect the prophecies and promises of the Old Covenant. . God wills also that in these preparations we should find confirmation of our faith. . If God gave so many different and precise signs, such numerous and clear prophecies, it was in order that we might recognise as His Son the One Who has fulfilled them in His person... https://lnkd.in/gH6pYUxS