Hi Brian!
The word for this week is "eternal". We see it in John 3:15-16:
15 In order that everyone who believes in Him [who cleaves to Him, trusts Him, and relies on Him] may not perish, but have eternal life and [actually] live forever! 16 For God so greatly loved and dearly prized the world that He [even] gave up His only begotten (unique) Son, so that whoever believes in (trusts in, clings to, relies on) Him shall not perish (come to destruction, be lost) but have eternal (everlasting) life.
This is the Greek word "aionios". Strong's Concordance says: perpetual; eternal; for ever; everlasting. Thayer's Greek Lexicon says: without beginning or end; that which always has been and always will be; without beginning; without end (never to cease). The "life" (zoe, which we covered earlier) that He wants to give to us is never ending! We also see this in 1 John 5:11-13:
11 And this is the record, that God has given us eternal life, and this life is in His Son. 12 He that has the Son has life, and he that has not the Son of God has not life. 13 These things have I written unto you that believe on the Name of the Son of God; that you may know that you have eternal life, and that you may believe on the Name of the Son of God.
We also see this word used with death, condemnation and damnation where it means the same thing: forever, continuing without end! That refers to those who DO NOT have the Son of God as Lord and Savior! We are so very glad that you do! Another place where we see this word is in 2 Corinthians 4:17-18:
17 For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, works for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory. 18 While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal.
Everything we can see with our physical eyes right now will have an end to it. The things we cannot see, which are things in the spiritual realm, including our human spirit, have no end! When we understand this, then we are in a position to enjoy all of the "things" that bless our lives without allowing them to become too important! Here is a more worshipful song from Hillsong called "Hosanna"
Love and Shalom from the Swoveys!
Sunday, December 18, 2011
Hi Brian!
The word for this week is "satisfied". Psalm 63:4-6 says this:
4 So will I bless You while I live; I will lift up my hands in Your Name. 5 My whole being shall be satisfied as with marrow and fatness; my mouth shall praise You with joyful lips. 6 When I remember You upon my bed and meditate on You in the night watches.
This is the Hebrew word "saba`", which means (according to Strong's Exhaustive Concordance): to sate; to fill to satisfaction; have enough; be full of; have plenty of. Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew Lexicon says: to be satisfied; to be fulfilled; to have one's fill; to have in excess. "Marrow" is the Hebrew word "cheleb", which in this passage means (according to Brown-Driver-Briggs): choicest part; best part; abundance. Blessing the Lord, praising Him, meditating on Him and His Word are all things that will get us in position to be blessed! Then Psalm 65:4 says this:
4 Blessed (happy, fortunate, to be envied) is the man whom You choose and cause to come near, that he may dwell in Your courts! We shall be satisfied with the goodness of Your house, Your holy temple.
Proverbs 12:14 says this:
14 From the fruit of his words a man shall be satisfied with good, and the work of a man's hands shall come back to him [as a harvest].
When we speak God's Word over our lives and family, we will have good things happen! Proverbs 18:20 warns of this:
20 A man's self shall be filled with the fruit of his mouth; and with the consequences of his words he must be satisfied [whether for good or evil].
The words that we speak over ourselves and our family are powerful! Speaking God's good Word will always result in good and Godly things! I love spending time with your family! There is such a positive atmosphere in your home and it is reflected in the smiling faces of your family! They are loved and they know it!
Here is an older song from Hillsong called "Blessed":
Love and Shalom from the Swoveys!
The word for this week is "satisfied". Psalm 63:4-6 says this:
4 So will I bless You while I live; I will lift up my hands in Your Name. 5 My whole being shall be satisfied as with marrow and fatness; my mouth shall praise You with joyful lips. 6 When I remember You upon my bed and meditate on You in the night watches.
This is the Hebrew word "saba`", which means (according to Strong's Exhaustive Concordance): to sate; to fill to satisfaction; have enough; be full of; have plenty of. Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew Lexicon says: to be satisfied; to be fulfilled; to have one's fill; to have in excess. "Marrow" is the Hebrew word "cheleb", which in this passage means (according to Brown-Driver-Briggs): choicest part; best part; abundance. Blessing the Lord, praising Him, meditating on Him and His Word are all things that will get us in position to be blessed! Then Psalm 65:4 says this:
4 Blessed (happy, fortunate, to be envied) is the man whom You choose and cause to come near, that he may dwell in Your courts! We shall be satisfied with the goodness of Your house, Your holy temple.
Proverbs 12:14 says this:
14 From the fruit of his words a man shall be satisfied with good, and the work of a man's hands shall come back to him [as a harvest].
When we speak God's Word over our lives and family, we will have good things happen! Proverbs 18:20 warns of this:
20 A man's self shall be filled with the fruit of his mouth; and with the consequences of his words he must be satisfied [whether for good or evil].
The words that we speak over ourselves and our family are powerful! Speaking God's good Word will always result in good and Godly things! I love spending time with your family! There is such a positive atmosphere in your home and it is reflected in the smiling faces of your family! They are loved and they know it!
Here is an older song from Hillsong called "Blessed":
Here is an older, shorter version featuring Hillsong Kids:
Love and Shalom from the Swoveys!
Sunday, December 11, 2011
Hi Brian!
The word for this week is "lead". There are two different Hebrew words that we will look at. The first is found in Psalms 5:8:
8 Lead me, O LORD, in Your righteousness because of my enemies; make Your way level (straight and right) before my face.
The is the Hebrew word "nachah". Strong's Concordance and Brown-Driver-Briggs Lexicon both say: lead, guide. The Theological Wordbook of the Old Testament says: the conducting of one along the right path. God will lead and guide and direct us every moment by His Word and by His Spirit. We need to stay in fellowship with Him and aware of His presence in order to receive and act on that leading. Having children puts us in position to understand the heart of God, and to be able to respond properly to HIS leading! As He leads you, then you lead Avery, guiding her to make the right choices!
The other word for lead is found in Psalms 25:5:
5 Lead me in Your truth, and teach me: for You are the God of my salvation; on You do I wait all the day.
The Amplified Bible says:
5 Guide me in Your truth and faithfulness and teach me, for You are the God of my salvation; for You [You only and altogether] do I wait [expectantly] all the day long.
I like to pray this as I study the Word because I know that He hears and answers that one! He strongly desires that we know Him by knowing His Word! This is the Hebrew word "darak". Strong's Concordance says: to tread, to walk, to guide. Brown-Driver-Briggs says: to tread, to lead, to march, to cause to go. The Theological Wordbook of the Old Testament says: "The basic concept behind darak has to do with setting foot on territory or objects" It also says: "In Deuteronomy and Joshua the verb is used of taking possession of the promised land." Also: " A frequent idiom is 'treading upon the high places of the earth', indicating control of the enemy." This word involves more action! We must take the Word that we see and understand and act on it, becoming a "doer" of the Word and not just a hearer (James 1:23-25). When we follow His leading and direction and act on it in obedience, then we don't "march" alone, but He walks every step of the way with us! That is like when you don't just tell Avery to do something, but you do it right along with her, showing her how it's done and giving her the support she needs to keep at it and not quit!
It is such a blessing to see you and Kristine training Avery in the way she should go, and seeing her respond to your loving instruction and encouragement! You are more like your heavenly Father than you even realize! We are so blessed to be a part of your lives! Here is Hillsong Live with "Born Is The King (It's Christmas)", because we know how much you love Christmas!
Love and Shalom from the Swoveys!
The word for this week is "lead". There are two different Hebrew words that we will look at. The first is found in Psalms 5:8:
8 Lead me, O LORD, in Your righteousness because of my enemies; make Your way level (straight and right) before my face.
The is the Hebrew word "nachah". Strong's Concordance and Brown-Driver-Briggs Lexicon both say: lead, guide. The Theological Wordbook of the Old Testament says: the conducting of one along the right path. God will lead and guide and direct us every moment by His Word and by His Spirit. We need to stay in fellowship with Him and aware of His presence in order to receive and act on that leading. Having children puts us in position to understand the heart of God, and to be able to respond properly to HIS leading! As He leads you, then you lead Avery, guiding her to make the right choices!
The other word for lead is found in Psalms 25:5:
5 Lead me in Your truth, and teach me: for You are the God of my salvation; on You do I wait all the day.
The Amplified Bible says:
5 Guide me in Your truth and faithfulness and teach me, for You are the God of my salvation; for You [You only and altogether] do I wait [expectantly] all the day long.
I like to pray this as I study the Word because I know that He hears and answers that one! He strongly desires that we know Him by knowing His Word! This is the Hebrew word "darak". Strong's Concordance says: to tread, to walk, to guide. Brown-Driver-Briggs says: to tread, to lead, to march, to cause to go. The Theological Wordbook of the Old Testament says: "The basic concept behind darak has to do with setting foot on territory or objects" It also says: "In Deuteronomy and Joshua the verb is used of taking possession of the promised land." Also: " A frequent idiom is 'treading upon the high places of the earth', indicating control of the enemy." This word involves more action! We must take the Word that we see and understand and act on it, becoming a "doer" of the Word and not just a hearer (James 1:23-25). When we follow His leading and direction and act on it in obedience, then we don't "march" alone, but He walks every step of the way with us! That is like when you don't just tell Avery to do something, but you do it right along with her, showing her how it's done and giving her the support she needs to keep at it and not quit!
It is such a blessing to see you and Kristine training Avery in the way she should go, and seeing her respond to your loving instruction and encouragement! You are more like your heavenly Father than you even realize! We are so blessed to be a part of your lives! Here is Hillsong Live with "Born Is The King (It's Christmas)", because we know how much you love Christmas!
Love and Shalom from the Swoveys!
Sunday, December 4, 2011
Hi Brian!
The word for this week is "wisdom". Proverbs 3:13-14:
13 Happy (blessed, fortunate, enviable) is the man who finds skillful and godly Wisdom, and the man who gets understanding [drawing it forth from God's Word and life's experiences], 14 For the gaining of it is better than the gaining of silver, and the profit of it better than fine gold.
"Wisdom" here is the Hebrew word "chokmah". Vine's Expository Dictionary says that it means: wisdom, experience, shrewdness. It also says "Chokmah is the knowledge and the ability to make the right choices at the opportune time. The consistency of making the right choice is an indication of maturity and development. The prerequisite for "wisdom" is the fear of the LORD. Proverbs 1:7:
7 The reverent and worshipful fear of the LORD is the beginning and the principal and choice part of knowledge [its starting point and its essence]; but fools despise skillful and godly Wisdom, instruction, and discipline.
The fear of the LORD is having reverence, respect, and awe in His presence. We grow in that by getting to know HIM more. (See Philippians 3:10 AMP) Proverbs 4:7-8:
7 The beginning of Wisdom is: get Wisdom (skillful and godly Wisdom)! [For skillful and godly Wisdom is the principal thing.] And with all you have gotten, get understanding (discernment, comprehension, and interpretation). 8 Prize Wisdom highly and exalt her, and she will exalt and promote you; she will bring you to honor when you embrace her.
Operating in Wisdom will make us successful in every area of life! You are already very successful. You will know even greater success as you get to know HIM more, for He IS Wisdom! Here is an older song from Darlene Zschech and Hillsong called "To You":
Love and Shalom from the Swoveys!
The word for this week is "wisdom". Proverbs 3:13-14:
13 Happy (blessed, fortunate, enviable) is the man who finds skillful and godly Wisdom, and the man who gets understanding [drawing it forth from God's Word and life's experiences], 14 For the gaining of it is better than the gaining of silver, and the profit of it better than fine gold.
"Wisdom" here is the Hebrew word "chokmah". Vine's Expository Dictionary says that it means: wisdom, experience, shrewdness. It also says "Chokmah is the knowledge and the ability to make the right choices at the opportune time. The consistency of making the right choice is an indication of maturity and development. The prerequisite for "wisdom" is the fear of the LORD. Proverbs 1:7:
7 The reverent and worshipful fear of the LORD is the beginning and the principal and choice part of knowledge [its starting point and its essence]; but fools despise skillful and godly Wisdom, instruction, and discipline.
The fear of the LORD is having reverence, respect, and awe in His presence. We grow in that by getting to know HIM more. (See Philippians 3:10 AMP) Proverbs 4:7-8:
7 The beginning of Wisdom is: get Wisdom (skillful and godly Wisdom)! [For skillful and godly Wisdom is the principal thing.] And with all you have gotten, get understanding (discernment, comprehension, and interpretation). 8 Prize Wisdom highly and exalt her, and she will exalt and promote you; she will bring you to honor when you embrace her.
Operating in Wisdom will make us successful in every area of life! You are already very successful. You will know even greater success as you get to know HIM more, for He IS Wisdom! Here is an older song from Darlene Zschech and Hillsong called "To You":
Love and Shalom from the Swoveys!
Sunday, November 27, 2011
Hi Brian!
The word for this week is "Christ". This Greek word is found only is the New Testament. Here is an example from Luke 2:11:
11 For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord.
According to Strong's Exhaustive Concordance, this means: anointed; the Messiah. It comes from another Greek word, "chrio", which can mean: to consecrate to an office. Jesus WAS, and IS, THE Christ! He is the Messiah of Israel, (whether they recognize Him or not!) and the Savior of the world! The Amplified Bible says this:
11 For to you is born this day in the town of David a Savior, Who is Christ (the Messiah) the Lord!
The Complete Jewish Bible says this:
11 This very day, in the town of David, there was born for you a Deliverer Who is the Messiah, the Lord.
The Message Bible says this:
11 A Savior has just been born in David's town, a Savior Who is Messiah and Master.
Jesus of Nazareth was, and is, The Christ, The Messiah, the Anointed One (with His anointing)! He is the ONLY Way to the Father (John 14:6) and there would be no Christmas without HIM! We thought you would appreciate this because Christmas is so special to you! We can't wait to see your home! Here is an old Christmas Rap song by ETW called "You Can't Spell Christmas Without Christ":
Love and Shalom from the Swoveys!
The word for this week is "Christ". This Greek word is found only is the New Testament. Here is an example from Luke 2:11:
11 For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord.
According to Strong's Exhaustive Concordance, this means: anointed; the Messiah. It comes from another Greek word, "chrio", which can mean: to consecrate to an office. Jesus WAS, and IS, THE Christ! He is the Messiah of Israel, (whether they recognize Him or not!) and the Savior of the world! The Amplified Bible says this:
11 For to you is born this day in the town of David a Savior, Who is Christ (the Messiah) the Lord!
The Complete Jewish Bible says this:
11 This very day, in the town of David, there was born for you a Deliverer Who is the Messiah, the Lord.
The Message Bible says this:
11 A Savior has just been born in David's town, a Savior Who is Messiah and Master.
Jesus of Nazareth was, and is, The Christ, The Messiah, the Anointed One (with His anointing)! He is the ONLY Way to the Father (John 14:6) and there would be no Christmas without HIM! We thought you would appreciate this because Christmas is so special to you! We can't wait to see your home! Here is an old Christmas Rap song by ETW called "You Can't Spell Christmas Without Christ":
Love and Shalom from the Swoveys!
Sunday, November 20, 2011
Hi Brian!
The word for this week is "desire"! 1 Peter 2:2 says this:
2 As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the Word, that you may grow thereby:
This is the Greek word "epipotheo", which means: to dote upon; intensely crave possession of; according to Strong's Exhaustive Concordance. Thayer's Greek Lexicon says: to long for, desire. Vine's Expository Dictionary says: to long for greatly. We are to long for and even crave the simple teaching of the Word of God. When we do that, then we grow up toward spiritual maturity. The more we understand and act on the Word of God, the more that desire for it grows! You could say that we become addicted to it! We find that we can't live well without it! THAT is a great position to be in and a great attitude to have because He is ALWAYS watching over His Word to perform if in our lives (Jeremiah 1:12 AMP)!
Here is Hillsong United with Lord of Lords:
The word for this week is "desire"! 1 Peter 2:2 says this:
2 As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the Word, that you may grow thereby:
This is the Greek word "epipotheo", which means: to dote upon; intensely crave possession of; according to Strong's Exhaustive Concordance. Thayer's Greek Lexicon says: to long for, desire. Vine's Expository Dictionary says: to long for greatly. We are to long for and even crave the simple teaching of the Word of God. When we do that, then we grow up toward spiritual maturity. The more we understand and act on the Word of God, the more that desire for it grows! You could say that we become addicted to it! We find that we can't live well without it! THAT is a great position to be in and a great attitude to have because He is ALWAYS watching over His Word to perform if in our lives (Jeremiah 1:12 AMP)!
Here is Hillsong United with Lord of Lords:
Love and Shalom from the Swoveys!
Sunday, November 13, 2011
Hi Brian!
The word for this week is "lovingkindness". This is the Hebrew word "checed". Strong's Concordance lists kindness, favor and mercy as meanings. Brown-Drive-Briggs Lexicon lists goodness, kindness and faithfulness. Vine's Expository Dictionary says this:
checed OT:2617, "loving-kindness; steadfast love; grace; mercy; faithfulness; goodness; devotion." This word is used 240 times in the Old Testament, and is especially frequent in the Psalter. The term is one of the most important in the vocabulary of Old Testament theology and ethics.
Here are five passages of Scripture that contain "checed":
Psalm 63:3 Because Your loving-kindness is better than life, my lips shall praise You.
Psalm 103:4-5 Who redeems your life from the pit and corruption, Who beautifies, dignifies, and crowns you with loving-kindness and tender mercy; 5 Who satisfies your mouth [your necessity and desire at your personal age and situation] with good so that your youth, renewed, is like the eagle's [strong, overcoming, soaring]!
Psalm 138:2 I will worship toward Your holy temple and praise Your name for Your loving-kindness and for Your truth and faithfulness; for You have exalted above all else Your Name and Your Word and You have magnified Your Word above all Your Name!
Jeremiah 9:24 But let him who glories glory in this: that he understands and knows Me [personally and practically, directly discerning and recognizing My character], that I am the LORD, Who practices loving-kindness, judgment, and righteousness in the earth, for in these things I delight, says the LORD.
Jeremiah 31:3 The LORD appeared from of old to me [Israel], saying, Yes, I have loved you with an everlasting love; therefore with loving-kindness have I drawn you and continued My faithfulness to you.
When we think of the Truth that God loves us, we can now understand that it isn't just an emotion or even just a decision on His part, but He has put all of Himself into showing forth that love in any and every way that is necessary to care for, provide for and protect us! The more we understand His nature and His attitude toward us, the better we can be at loving our families, friends, relatives, and all of the people that God has placed in our lives! YOUR loving-kindness is continually evident in the way you treat your family, including your extended family! Here is "Loving Kindess" by Miriam Webster and Darlene Zschech:
Love and Shalom from the Swoveys!
The word for this week is "lovingkindness". This is the Hebrew word "checed". Strong's Concordance lists kindness, favor and mercy as meanings. Brown-Drive-Briggs Lexicon lists goodness, kindness and faithfulness. Vine's Expository Dictionary says this:
checed OT:2617, "loving-kindness; steadfast love; grace; mercy; faithfulness; goodness; devotion." This word is used 240 times in the Old Testament, and is especially frequent in the Psalter. The term is one of the most important in the vocabulary of Old Testament theology and ethics.
Psalm 103:4-5 Who redeems your life from the pit and corruption, Who beautifies, dignifies, and crowns you with loving-kindness and tender mercy; 5 Who satisfies your mouth [your necessity and desire at your personal age and situation] with good so that your youth, renewed, is like the eagle's [strong, overcoming, soaring]!
Psalm 138:2 I will worship toward Your holy temple and praise Your name for Your loving-kindness and for Your truth and faithfulness; for You have exalted above all else Your Name and Your Word and You have magnified Your Word above all Your Name!
Jeremiah 9:24 But let him who glories glory in this: that he understands and knows Me [personally and practically, directly discerning and recognizing My character], that I am the LORD, Who practices loving-kindness, judgment, and righteousness in the earth, for in these things I delight, says the LORD.
Jeremiah 31:3 The LORD appeared from of old to me [Israel], saying, Yes, I have loved you with an everlasting love; therefore with loving-kindness have I drawn you and continued My faithfulness to you.
Love and Shalom from the Swoveys!
Sunday, November 6, 2011
Hi Brian!
The word for this week is "savour"! It appears a four times in 2 Corinthians 2:14-16a. It is the Greek word "osme" and means, according to Strong's Concordance: fragrance, odor. Louw and Nida Greek-English Lexicon says: the scent or odor of a substance, whether agreeable or disagreeable; smell or scent.
14 But thanks be to God, Who in Christ always leads us in triumph [as trophies of Christ's victory] and through us spreads and makes evident the fragrance of the knowledge of God everywhere, 15 For we are the sweet fragrance of Christ [which exhales] unto God, [discernible alike] among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing. 16a To the latter it is an aroma [wafted] from death to death [a fatal odor, the smell of doom]; to the former it is an aroma from life to life [a vital fragrance, living and fresh].
Those who are hungry for God will enjoy being around us, but those who are lost and don't wan't anything to do with the things of God will hate our presence. This is one of the reasons why! What should we do then? Ephesians 5:1-2:
1 THEREFORE BE imitators of God [copy Him and follow His example], as well-beloved children [imitate their father]. 2 And walk in love, [esteeming and delighting in one another] as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a slain offering and sacrifice to God [for you, so that it became] a sweet fragrance.
HE "smells" great to us and WE "smell" great to those who want to know HIM! The more evidence of His goodness that is displayed in our lives, the more people will be attracted to the ONE Who blesses us so much! You, Kristine, and Avery are a very great blessing to many more people than just your families and the Swoveys! You "smell" good! Here is a song by Gwen Smith called "Something Beautiful". You have to click through to You Tube to get the lyrics! Have a week full of great favor and blessings!
Love and Shalom from the Swoveys!
The word for this week is "savour"! It appears a four times in 2 Corinthians 2:14-16a. It is the Greek word "osme" and means, according to Strong's Concordance: fragrance, odor. Louw and Nida Greek-English Lexicon says: the scent or odor of a substance, whether agreeable or disagreeable; smell or scent.
14 But thanks be to God, Who in Christ always leads us in triumph [as trophies of Christ's victory] and through us spreads and makes evident the fragrance of the knowledge of God everywhere, 15 For we are the sweet fragrance of Christ [which exhales] unto God, [discernible alike] among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing. 16a To the latter it is an aroma [wafted] from death to death [a fatal odor, the smell of doom]; to the former it is an aroma from life to life [a vital fragrance, living and fresh].
Those who are hungry for God will enjoy being around us, but those who are lost and don't wan't anything to do with the things of God will hate our presence. This is one of the reasons why! What should we do then? Ephesians 5:1-2:
1 THEREFORE BE imitators of God [copy Him and follow His example], as well-beloved children [imitate their father]. 2 And walk in love, [esteeming and delighting in one another] as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a slain offering and sacrifice to God [for you, so that it became] a sweet fragrance.
HE "smells" great to us and WE "smell" great to those who want to know HIM! The more evidence of His goodness that is displayed in our lives, the more people will be attracted to the ONE Who blesses us so much! You, Kristine, and Avery are a very great blessing to many more people than just your families and the Swoveys! You "smell" good! Here is a song by Gwen Smith called "Something Beautiful". You have to click through to You Tube to get the lyrics! Have a week full of great favor and blessings!
Love and Shalom from the Swoveys!
Sunday, October 30, 2011
Hi Brian!
Your word for this week is "fruit"! John 15:8 says this:
8 Herein is My Father glorified, that you bear much fruit; so shall you be My disciples.
"Fruit" here, according to Thayer's Greek Lexicon, means:
Your word for this week is "fruit"! John 15:8 says this:
8 Herein is My Father glorified, that you bear much fruit; so shall you be My disciples.
"Fruit" here, according to Thayer's Greek Lexicon, means:
- the fruit of trees
- (Metaphorically) that which originates or comes from something; an effect or result
- a. work, act, deed
- b. advantage, profit, utility
- c. praises which are presented to God as a thank-offering
- d. to gather fruit
John 15:16 (AMP) says this:
16 You have not chosen Me, but I have chosen you and I have appointed you [I have planted you], that you might go and bear fruit and keep on bearing, and that your fruit may be lasting [that it may remain, abide], so that whatever you ask the Father in My Name [as representing all that I AM], He may give it to you.
Then we see result or effect of having the Holy Spirit living in us in Galatians 5:22-23 (AMP):
22 But the fruit of the [Holy] Spirit [the work which His presence within accomplishes] is love, joy (gladness), peace, patience (an even temper, forbearance), kindness, goodness (benevolence), faithfulness, 23 Gentleness (meekness, humility), self-control (self-restraint, continence). Against such things there is no law [that can bring a charge].
And finally Hebrews 13:15 (AMP):
15 Through Him, therefore, let us constantly and at all times offer up to God a sacrifice of praise, which is the fruit of lips that thankfully acknowledge and confess and glorify His Name.
The "fruit" of having Jesus as Lord in your life is very evident! And the fruit of having YOU for a husband and father is very evident in the smiles of Kristine and Avery! Keep up the great "fruit-bearing"! You are a blessing! Here is Hillsong with The Difference (We've used this song before, but it seems appropriate!):
Love and Shalom from the Swoveys!
Sunday, October 23, 2011
Hi Brian!
The word for this week is "strength"! There are a few words translated "strength" in the Bible, but we are looking at only one of them today! This is found in Mark 12:30:
30 And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind, and with all your strength: this is the first commandment.
The word "strength" here is the Greek word "ischus", which means force, ability, might, power, strength, according to Strong's Concordance, Thayer's Greek Lexicon and Vine's Expository Dictionary. This love for the Lord is much more than just emotion! We are to put all of ourselves into keeping Him as our #1 priority. I like the Message Bible for this verse:
30 So love the Lord your God with all your passion and prayer and intelligence and energy.
I have found it to be so true that when I do put Jesus first in my life, there is more than enough time, energy, love and anything else that is needed to love my "loved ones" more, and better, than ever before! What we give to Him, He gives back in abundance! You will find that you will have so much more ability, might, power, and strength to accomplish whatever you lay your hands to! HE has an abundant supply of everything we may need! Revelation 5:12 contains the same word for strength!
12 Saying with a loud voice, Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power, and riches, and wisdom, and strength, and honour and glory, and blessing.
Here is another song from Hillsong United called "You Are My Strength":
Love and Shalom from the Swoveys!
The word for this week is "strength"! There are a few words translated "strength" in the Bible, but we are looking at only one of them today! This is found in Mark 12:30:
30 And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind, and with all your strength: this is the first commandment.
The word "strength" here is the Greek word "ischus", which means force, ability, might, power, strength, according to Strong's Concordance, Thayer's Greek Lexicon and Vine's Expository Dictionary. This love for the Lord is much more than just emotion! We are to put all of ourselves into keeping Him as our #1 priority. I like the Message Bible for this verse:
30 So love the Lord your God with all your passion and prayer and intelligence and energy.
I have found it to be so true that when I do put Jesus first in my life, there is more than enough time, energy, love and anything else that is needed to love my "loved ones" more, and better, than ever before! What we give to Him, He gives back in abundance! You will find that you will have so much more ability, might, power, and strength to accomplish whatever you lay your hands to! HE has an abundant supply of everything we may need! Revelation 5:12 contains the same word for strength!
12 Saying with a loud voice, Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power, and riches, and wisdom, and strength, and honour and glory, and blessing.
Here is another song from Hillsong United called "You Are My Strength":
Love and Shalom from the Swoveys!
Sunday, October 16, 2011
Hi Brian!
The word for this week is "precious"! There are a couple of words translated precious in the New Testament, but we will be looking at just one of them. We find it first in James 5:7:
7 Be patient therefore, brethren, unto the coming of the Lord. Behold, the husbandman waits for the precious fruit of the earth, and has long patience for it, until he receives the early and latter rain.
Then 1 Peter 1:18-19:
18 You must know (recognize) that you were redeemed (ransomed) from the useless (fruitless) way of living inherited by tradition from [your] forefathers, not with corruptible things [such as] silver and gold, 19 But [you were purchased] with the precious blood of Christ (the Messiah), like that of a [sacrificial] lamb without blemish or spot.
Then 1 Peter 2:7:
7 Unto you therefore which believe He is precious: but unto them which be disobedient, the stone which the builders disallowed, the same is made the head of the corner.
2 Peter 1:3-4 says this:
3 For His divine power has bestowed upon us all things that [are requisite and suited] to life and godliness, through the [full, personal] knowledge of Him Who called us by and to His own glory and excellence (virtue). 4 By means of these He has bestowed on us His precious and exceedingly great promises, so that through them you may escape [by flight] from the moral decay (rottenness and corruption) that is in the world because of covetousness (lust and greed), and become sharers (partakers) of the divine nature.
"Precious" in these verses is the Greek word "timios". Strong's Concordance says: valuable, costly, honored, esteemed, beloved, dear. Thayer's Greek Lexicon says: held as of great price, precious, held in honor. He is precious to us, His Word is precious to us, His blood is precious, the blessings we have received from Him are precious! You have been blessed with a precious wife and a precious daughter! You see them as precious and it shows! That makes YOU precious, too!
Here is a song by Hillsong that speaks of the precious blood of Jesus! It is called "To Know Your Name"
Love and Shalom from the Swoveys!
The word for this week is "precious"! There are a couple of words translated precious in the New Testament, but we will be looking at just one of them. We find it first in James 5:7:
7 Be patient therefore, brethren, unto the coming of the Lord. Behold, the husbandman waits for the precious fruit of the earth, and has long patience for it, until he receives the early and latter rain.
Then 1 Peter 1:18-19:
18 You must know (recognize) that you were redeemed (ransomed) from the useless (fruitless) way of living inherited by tradition from [your] forefathers, not with corruptible things [such as] silver and gold, 19 But [you were purchased] with the precious blood of Christ (the Messiah), like that of a [sacrificial] lamb without blemish or spot.
Then 1 Peter 2:7:
7 Unto you therefore which believe He is precious: but unto them which be disobedient, the stone which the builders disallowed, the same is made the head of the corner.
2 Peter 1:3-4 says this:
3 For His divine power has bestowed upon us all things that [are requisite and suited] to life and godliness, through the [full, personal] knowledge of Him Who called us by and to His own glory and excellence (virtue). 4 By means of these He has bestowed on us His precious and exceedingly great promises, so that through them you may escape [by flight] from the moral decay (rottenness and corruption) that is in the world because of covetousness (lust and greed), and become sharers (partakers) of the divine nature.
"Precious" in these verses is the Greek word "timios". Strong's Concordance says: valuable, costly, honored, esteemed, beloved, dear. Thayer's Greek Lexicon says: held as of great price, precious, held in honor. He is precious to us, His Word is precious to us, His blood is precious, the blessings we have received from Him are precious! You have been blessed with a precious wife and a precious daughter! You see them as precious and it shows! That makes YOU precious, too!
Here is a song by Hillsong that speaks of the precious blood of Jesus! It is called "To Know Your Name"
Love and Shalom from the Swoveys!
Sunday, October 9, 2011
Hi Brian!
Your word for this week is "victory"! How appropriate is that after the game today! 1 John 5:4:
4 For whatsoever is born of God overcomes the world: and this is the victory that overcomes the world, even our faith.
"Victory" here is the Greek word, "nike". Strong's Exhaustive Concordance says that this is a primary word meaning conquest, the means of success, victory. The word "overcomes" is found twice in this verse and is the Greek word "nikao", which is taken from "nike". According to Strong's it means: to subdue, conquer, overcome, prevail, get the victory. Thayer's Greek Lexicon says: to conquer, to carry off the victory, to come off victorious. What a great word! Then verse 5 says this:
5 Who is he that overcomes the world, but he that believes that Jesus is the Son of God.
Every born again believer has the potential to be victorious in every situation in life. We need to develop the faith that gives us the victory by hearing the Word of God (Romans 10:17) and by praying in the Spirit (Jude 20). When that faith, trust and confidence rises up inside of us, we will speak God's Word into situations and see them change for our benefit! I LOVE the Word! Here is Hillsong Live with God Is Able:
Love and Shalom from the Swoveys!
Your word for this week is "victory"! How appropriate is that after the game today! 1 John 5:4:
4 For whatsoever is born of God overcomes the world: and this is the victory that overcomes the world, even our faith.
"Victory" here is the Greek word, "nike". Strong's Exhaustive Concordance says that this is a primary word meaning conquest, the means of success, victory. The word "overcomes" is found twice in this verse and is the Greek word "nikao", which is taken from "nike". According to Strong's it means: to subdue, conquer, overcome, prevail, get the victory. Thayer's Greek Lexicon says: to conquer, to carry off the victory, to come off victorious. What a great word! Then verse 5 says this:
5 Who is he that overcomes the world, but he that believes that Jesus is the Son of God.
Every born again believer has the potential to be victorious in every situation in life. We need to develop the faith that gives us the victory by hearing the Word of God (Romans 10:17) and by praying in the Spirit (Jude 20). When that faith, trust and confidence rises up inside of us, we will speak God's Word into situations and see them change for our benefit! I LOVE the Word! Here is Hillsong Live with God Is Able:
Here is a link for the lyrics if you would like them:
Love and Shalom from the Swoveys!
Sunday, October 2, 2011
Hi Brian!
The word for this week is "patience". There are two words translated "patience" in the New Testament. One of them is found in James 5:7:
7 Be patient therefore, brethren, unto the coming of the Lord. Behold, the husbandman waits for the precious fruit of the earth, and has long patience of it, until he receive the early and latter rain.
This is the Greek word "makrothumeo", which means: to be long-spirited, to persevere patiently and bravely, to not lose heart, according to Thayer's Greek Lexicon. The other word can be found in Hebrews 10:36:
36 For you have need of patience, that after you have done the will of God, you might receive the promise.
This is the Greek word "hupomone", which means: cheerful or hopeful endurance, constancy, patient continuance, according to Strong's Exhaustive Concordance; and steadfastness, constancy, endurance, according to Thayer's Greek Lexicon.
Both of these words give the idea of never giving up, no matter how things may look. Anyone can "believe" when things are going good; but it takes faith (trust and confidence in God and His Word) and patience to endure, never giving up, when we face tests or trials. I know that you haven't advanced to this point in your career without having developed patience! James 1:4 is for you!
4 But let patience have her perfect work, that you may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing.
That sounds like a great promise to me! Here is "Stronger" by Hillsong United:
Love and Shalom from the Swoveys!
The word for this week is "patience". There are two words translated "patience" in the New Testament. One of them is found in James 5:7:
7 Be patient therefore, brethren, unto the coming of the Lord. Behold, the husbandman waits for the precious fruit of the earth, and has long patience of it, until he receive the early and latter rain.
This is the Greek word "makrothumeo", which means: to be long-spirited, to persevere patiently and bravely, to not lose heart, according to Thayer's Greek Lexicon. The other word can be found in Hebrews 10:36:
36 For you have need of patience, that after you have done the will of God, you might receive the promise.
This is the Greek word "hupomone", which means: cheerful or hopeful endurance, constancy, patient continuance, according to Strong's Exhaustive Concordance; and steadfastness, constancy, endurance, according to Thayer's Greek Lexicon.
Both of these words give the idea of never giving up, no matter how things may look. Anyone can "believe" when things are going good; but it takes faith (trust and confidence in God and His Word) and patience to endure, never giving up, when we face tests or trials. I know that you haven't advanced to this point in your career without having developed patience! James 1:4 is for you!
4 But let patience have her perfect work, that you may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing.
That sounds like a great promise to me! Here is "Stronger" by Hillsong United:
Love and Shalom from the Swoveys!
Sunday, September 25, 2011
Hi Brian!
The word for this week is "fine". I thought I misheard this one when every verse that had fine in it was actually speaking of the linen, or the flour, or the gold that was fine. But 2 Chronicles 3:5 & 8 both use the word fine referring to the gold, but the word also stands alone. It is the Hebrew word "towb". According to Brown-Driver-Briggs Greek Lexicon, this word means: good, pleasant, agreeable, excellent, rich, valuable, appropriate, becoming, prosperous, welfare, happiness, bounty. It is only found 3 times as "fine", but many, many times as "good"! Here are a few:
Genesis 1:31 And God saw every thing that He had made, and, behold, it was very good. And the evening and the morning were the sixth day.
Psalm 84:11 For the LORD God is a sun and shield: the LORD will give grace and glory: no good thing will He withhold fro them that walk uprightly.
Psalm 92:1 It is a good thing to give thanks unto the LORD, and to sing praises unto Thy Name , O most High.
Psalm 100:5 For the LORD is good; His mercy endures to all generations.
Psalm 106:1, Psalm 107:1, Psalm 118:1, Psalm 118:29 all say, in some form, For the LORD is good, His mercy endures forever!
So God is good to US! Here is Hillsong Live with "Forever Reign":
Love and Shalom from the Swoveys!
The word for this week is "fine". I thought I misheard this one when every verse that had fine in it was actually speaking of the linen, or the flour, or the gold that was fine. But 2 Chronicles 3:5 & 8 both use the word fine referring to the gold, but the word also stands alone. It is the Hebrew word "towb". According to Brown-Driver-Briggs Greek Lexicon, this word means: good, pleasant, agreeable, excellent, rich, valuable, appropriate, becoming, prosperous, welfare, happiness, bounty. It is only found 3 times as "fine", but many, many times as "good"! Here are a few:
Genesis 1:31 And God saw every thing that He had made, and, behold, it was very good. And the evening and the morning were the sixth day.
Psalm 84:11 For the LORD God is a sun and shield: the LORD will give grace and glory: no good thing will He withhold fro them that walk uprightly.
Psalm 92:1 It is a good thing to give thanks unto the LORD, and to sing praises unto Thy Name , O most High.
Psalm 100:5 For the LORD is good; His mercy endures to all generations.
Psalm 106:1, Psalm 107:1, Psalm 118:1, Psalm 118:29 all say, in some form, For the LORD is good, His mercy endures forever!
So God is good to US! Here is Hillsong Live with "Forever Reign":
Love and Shalom from the Swoveys!
Sunday, September 18, 2011
Hi Brian!
I hope you enjoyed your concerts! The word for this week is "abundance". Luke 6:45 :
45 The good person out of the good treasure of his heart produces good, and the evil person out of his evil treasure produces evil, for out of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaks.
This is the Greek word "perisseuma", which means: a surplus; or superabundance; over and above, according to Strong's Exhaustive Concordance. What we take into our lives by what we see, hear and meditate on, will affect our lives! We will either speak positive, faith-filled words that produce a great harvest of good things, or we will speak doubt, fear, unbelief, guilt, worry, or any number of negative things, which will produce a harvest we would rather NOT have!
Another verse containing the word "abundance" is found in Romans 5:17:
17 If, because of one man's trespass, death reigned through that one man, much more will those who receive the abundance of grace and the free gift of righteousness reign in life though the one man Jesus Christ.
This is the Greek word "perisseia", which means: surplusage, superabundance, according to Strong's Exhaustive Concordance. Vine's Expository Dictionary of New Testament Words says: exceeding measure, something above the ordinary. We received this great, abundant grace the moment we were born again! His grace is his favor, kindness, and blessing.
One more verse! This is one of my very favorite verses! John 10:10:
10 The thief comes not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.
This is the Greek word "perissos", which means: over and above, more than is necessary, superadded, superior, extraordinary, surpassing, uncommon, according to Thayer's Greek Lexicon. I REALLY like the Amplified Bible for this verse!
10 The thief comes only in order to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have and enjoy life, and have it in abundance (to the full, till it overflows).
I am praying for great abundance of all good things for you and your family! here is a new song from Hillsong called "My Heart Is Overwhelmed":
Here is a link for the lyrics:
http://www.newreleasetuesday.com/lyricsdetail.php?lyrics_id=69559
Love and Shalom from the Swoveys!
I hope you enjoyed your concerts! The word for this week is "abundance". Luke 6:45 :
45 The good person out of the good treasure of his heart produces good, and the evil person out of his evil treasure produces evil, for out of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaks.
This is the Greek word "perisseuma", which means: a surplus; or superabundance; over and above, according to Strong's Exhaustive Concordance. What we take into our lives by what we see, hear and meditate on, will affect our lives! We will either speak positive, faith-filled words that produce a great harvest of good things, or we will speak doubt, fear, unbelief, guilt, worry, or any number of negative things, which will produce a harvest we would rather NOT have!
Another verse containing the word "abundance" is found in Romans 5:17:
17 If, because of one man's trespass, death reigned through that one man, much more will those who receive the abundance of grace and the free gift of righteousness reign in life though the one man Jesus Christ.
This is the Greek word "perisseia", which means: surplusage, superabundance, according to Strong's Exhaustive Concordance. Vine's Expository Dictionary of New Testament Words says: exceeding measure, something above the ordinary. We received this great, abundant grace the moment we were born again! His grace is his favor, kindness, and blessing.
One more verse! This is one of my very favorite verses! John 10:10:
10 The thief comes not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.
This is the Greek word "perissos", which means: over and above, more than is necessary, superadded, superior, extraordinary, surpassing, uncommon, according to Thayer's Greek Lexicon. I REALLY like the Amplified Bible for this verse!
10 The thief comes only in order to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have and enjoy life, and have it in abundance (to the full, till it overflows).
I am praying for great abundance of all good things for you and your family! here is a new song from Hillsong called "My Heart Is Overwhelmed":
Here is a link for the lyrics:
http://www.newreleasetuesday.com/lyricsdetail.php?lyrics_id=69559
Love and Shalom from the Swoveys!
Sunday, September 11, 2011
Hi Brian!
The word for this week is "love"! There are basically two words used for "love" in the New Testament. One is the Greek word "agapao" (verb) or "agape" (noun). I will share what I found in Vine's Expository Dictionary concerning this word:
"Agape and agapao are used in the NT (a) to describe the attitude of God toward His Son, John 17:26; the human race, generally, John 3:16; Rom 5:8, and to such as believe on the Lord Jesus Christ particularly John 14:21; (b) to convey His will to His children concerning their attitude one toward another, John 13:34, and toward all men, 1 Thess 3:12; 1 Cor 16:14; 2 Peter 1:7; (c) to express the essential nature of God, 1 John 4:8.
"Love can be known only from the actions it prompts. God's love is seen in the gift of His Son, 1 John 4:9,10. But obviously this is not the love of complacency, or affection, that is, it was not drawn out by any excellency in its objects, Rom 5:8. It was an exercise of the divine will in deliberate choice, made without assignable cause save that which lies in the nature of God Himself, Cf. Deut 7:7,8.
"Love had its perfect expression among men in the Lord Jesus Christ, 2 Cor 5:14; Eph 2:4; 3:19; 5:2; Christian love is the fruit of His Spirit in the Christian, Gal 5:22.
"Christian love has God for its primary object, and expresses itself first of all in implicit obedience to His commandments, John 14:15,21,23; 15:10; 1 John 2:5; 5:3; 2 John 6. Selfwill, that is, self-pleasing, is the negation of love to God.
"Christian love, whether exercised toward the brethren, or toward men generally, is not an impulse from the feelings, it does not always run with the natural inclinations, nor does it spend itself only upon those for whom some affinity is discovered. Love seeks the welfare of all, Rom 15:2, and works no ill to any, 13:8,9,10; love seeks opportunity to do good to 'all men, and especially toward them that are of the household of the faith,' Gal 6:10. See further 1 Cor 13 and Col 3:12-14."
Love and Shalom from the Swoveys!
The word for this week is "love"! There are basically two words used for "love" in the New Testament. One is the Greek word "agapao" (verb) or "agape" (noun). I will share what I found in Vine's Expository Dictionary concerning this word:
"Love can be known only from the actions it prompts. God's love is seen in the gift of His Son, 1 John 4:9,10. But obviously this is not the love of complacency, or affection, that is, it was not drawn out by any excellency in its objects, Rom 5:8. It was an exercise of the divine will in deliberate choice, made without assignable cause save that which lies in the nature of God Himself, Cf. Deut 7:7,8.
"Love had its perfect expression among men in the Lord Jesus Christ, 2 Cor 5:14; Eph 2:4; 3:19; 5:2; Christian love is the fruit of His Spirit in the Christian, Gal 5:22.
"Christian love has God for its primary object, and expresses itself first of all in implicit obedience to His commandments, John 14:15,21,23; 15:10; 1 John 2:5; 5:3; 2 John 6. Selfwill, that is, self-pleasing, is the negation of love to God.
"Christian love, whether exercised toward the brethren, or toward men generally, is not an impulse from the feelings, it does not always run with the natural inclinations, nor does it spend itself only upon those for whom some affinity is discovered. Love seeks the welfare of all, Rom 15:2, and works no ill to any, 13:8,9,10; love seeks opportunity to do good to 'all men, and especially toward them that are of the household of the faith,' Gal 6:10. See further 1 Cor 13 and Col 3:12-14."
This is the love that GOD has for US and the love that HE expects US to give to others! It's a decision; a choice that doesn't change no matter WHAT the other person says or does! It's THAT love that we CANNOT be separated from (Romans 8:35 and 39). It is found in many spots in the New Testament and is in contrast to the other Greek word "phileo", which means: tender affection. The best place to find both, along with their distinctly different meanings, is in John 21:15-17 and in the Amplified Bible:
15 When they had eaten, Jesus said to Simon Peter, Simon, son of John, do you love Me more than these [others do - with reasoning, intentional, spiritual devotional, as one loves the Father? He said to Him, Yes, Lord, You know that I love You [that i have deep, instinctive, personal affection for You, as for a close friend]. He said to him, Feed My Lambs. 16 Again he said to him the second time, Simon, son of John, do you love Me [with reasoning, intentional, spiritual devotion, as one loves the Father]? He said to Him, Yes, Lord, You know that I love You [that I have a deep, instinctive, personal affection for You, as for a close friend]. He said to him, Shepherd (tend) My sheep. 17 He said to him the third time, Simon, son of John, do you love Me [with deep, instinctive, personal affection for Me, as for a close friend? Peter was grieved (was saddened and hurt) that He should ask him the third time, Do you love Me? And he said to Him, Lord, You know everything; You know that I love You [that I have a deep, instinctive, personal affection for You, as a close friend]. Jesus said to Him, Feed my sheep.
Peter was not ABLE to love with that God kind of love (agape) at this time! Once Jesus rose from the dead and ascended to heaven, He sent the Holy Spirit to live IN us and bring THAT love (Romans 5:5)! Now we have the choice to obey the Word of God and love others as we love ourselves (Mark 12:33). It is also "agape" love which never fails (1 Corinthians 13:8)! That makes the choice easy, don't you think? Here is Darlene Zschech and the Hillsong team with "It's Your Love":
Love and Shalom from the Swoveys!
Sunday, September 4, 2011
Hi Brian!
I hope you enjoyed your concerts! The word for this week is "life"! We will look at four passages of Scripture. The first is John 1:4:
4 In Him was Life, and the Life was the Light of men.
The word "light" here is the Greek word "phos". Strong's Exhaustive Concordance says: to shine or make manifest. Thayer's Greek Lexicon has as one of the meanings: truth and its knowledge, together with the spiritual purity congruous with it; reason, mind, the power of understanding. So the Life that is in Jesus leads to knowledge and understanding for mankind. We also see Life in John 3:16:
16 For God so greatly loved and dearly prized the world that He [even] gave up His only begotten (unique) Son, so that whoever believes in (trusts in, clings to, relies on) Him shall not perish (come to destruction, be lost) but have eternal (everlasting) life.
God's purpose in sending Jesus is so that every individual person would have the opportunity to have that same life! "Life" is the Greek word "zoe". Thayer's Greek Lexicon says: used emphatically of the absolute fullness of life, both essential and ethical, which belongs to God; life real and genuine. Vine's Expository Dictionary says: used in the New Testament of life as a principle, life in the absolute sense, life as God has it, that which the Father has in Himself, and which He gave to the Incarnate Son to have in Himself. Jesus said this in John 10:10:
10 The thief comes only in order to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have and enjoy life, and have it in abundance (to the full, till it overflows).
He desires that we all have that abundance of life. 1 John 5:11-13 says this:
11 And this is that testimony (that evidence): God gave us eternal life, and this life is in His Son. 12 He who possesses the Son has that life; he who does not possess the Son of God does not have that life. 13 I write this to you who believe in (adhere to, trust in, and rely on) the name of the Son of God, so that you may know [with settled and absolute knowledge] that you [already] have life, yes, eternal life.
Everyone who has received Jesus of Nazareth as Lord and personal Savior, has already received Zoe, life as God has it in Himself! We have HIS life in us! When we follow His leading and direction and get to know Him through His Word, we will be able to operate in this world in the same way that Jesus did during His earthly ministry! Life in abundance, to the full, till it overflows! I like that!
Here is an older Hillsong United song called "One Way"
Love and Shalom from the Swoveys!
I hope you enjoyed your concerts! The word for this week is "life"! We will look at four passages of Scripture. The first is John 1:4:
4 In Him was Life, and the Life was the Light of men.
The word "light" here is the Greek word "phos". Strong's Exhaustive Concordance says: to shine or make manifest. Thayer's Greek Lexicon has as one of the meanings: truth and its knowledge, together with the spiritual purity congruous with it; reason, mind, the power of understanding. So the Life that is in Jesus leads to knowledge and understanding for mankind. We also see Life in John 3:16:
16 For God so greatly loved and dearly prized the world that He [even] gave up His only begotten (unique) Son, so that whoever believes in (trusts in, clings to, relies on) Him shall not perish (come to destruction, be lost) but have eternal (everlasting) life.
God's purpose in sending Jesus is so that every individual person would have the opportunity to have that same life! "Life" is the Greek word "zoe". Thayer's Greek Lexicon says: used emphatically of the absolute fullness of life, both essential and ethical, which belongs to God; life real and genuine. Vine's Expository Dictionary says: used in the New Testament of life as a principle, life in the absolute sense, life as God has it, that which the Father has in Himself, and which He gave to the Incarnate Son to have in Himself. Jesus said this in John 10:10:
10 The thief comes only in order to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have and enjoy life, and have it in abundance (to the full, till it overflows).
He desires that we all have that abundance of life. 1 John 5:11-13 says this:
11 And this is that testimony (that evidence): God gave us eternal life, and this life is in His Son. 12 He who possesses the Son has that life; he who does not possess the Son of God does not have that life. 13 I write this to you who believe in (adhere to, trust in, and rely on) the name of the Son of God, so that you may know [with settled and absolute knowledge] that you [already] have life, yes, eternal life.
Everyone who has received Jesus of Nazareth as Lord and personal Savior, has already received Zoe, life as God has it in Himself! We have HIS life in us! When we follow His leading and direction and get to know Him through His Word, we will be able to operate in this world in the same way that Jesus did during His earthly ministry! Life in abundance, to the full, till it overflows! I like that!
Here is an older Hillsong United song called "One Way"
Love and Shalom from the Swoveys!
Sunday, August 28, 2011
Hi Brian!
The word for this week is "abide". We'll be looking at two verses in John. First is John 15:4:
4 Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine, no more can ye, except ye abide in me.
"Abide" here is the Greek word "meno". Strong's Exhaustive Concordance says: to stay (in a given place, state, relation or expectancy), abide, continue, dwell, endure, be present, remain, stand, tarry. Thayer's Greek Lexicon says: not to depart; not to leave; to continue to be present; to be held or kept continually. John 15:7 (Amplified) says this:
7 If you live in Me [abide vitally united to Me] and My words remain in you and continue to live in your hearts, ask whatever you will, and it shall be done for you.
We "bear fruit" as effective ministers of the Gospel when we continue "in Him". That means spending enough time in fellowship with Him that we remain aware of His presence! As we continue to be aware of His presence inside of us AND continue feeding daily on His Word, we will get in the position where we are thinking like Him, speaking like Him, and then we WILL have HIS results! That's a promise, and God keeps His promises! Thank You, Jesus! The song I was going to use wouldn't load, so here is Hillsong United singing To Know Your Name:
Love and Shalom from the Swoveys!
The word for this week is "abide". We'll be looking at two verses in John. First is John 15:4:
4 Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine, no more can ye, except ye abide in me.
"Abide" here is the Greek word "meno". Strong's Exhaustive Concordance says: to stay (in a given place, state, relation or expectancy), abide, continue, dwell, endure, be present, remain, stand, tarry. Thayer's Greek Lexicon says: not to depart; not to leave; to continue to be present; to be held or kept continually. John 15:7 (Amplified) says this:
7 If you live in Me [abide vitally united to Me] and My words remain in you and continue to live in your hearts, ask whatever you will, and it shall be done for you.
We "bear fruit" as effective ministers of the Gospel when we continue "in Him". That means spending enough time in fellowship with Him that we remain aware of His presence! As we continue to be aware of His presence inside of us AND continue feeding daily on His Word, we will get in the position where we are thinking like Him, speaking like Him, and then we WILL have HIS results! That's a promise, and God keeps His promises! Thank You, Jesus! The song I was going to use wouldn't load, so here is Hillsong United singing To Know Your Name:
Love and Shalom from the Swoveys!
Sunday, August 21, 2011
Hi Brian!
The word for this week is "reward". The Greek word for the Scriptures we'll be looking at is "misthos". Strong's Exhaustive Concordance says: pay for services, good or bad; hire, reward, wages. Thayer's Greek Lexicon says: dues paid for work; wager, hire (in both senses - rewards and punishments). We see this in Matthew 6:2-4 concerning our giving:
2 Thus, whenever you give to the poor, do not blow a trumpet before you, as the hypocrites in the synagogues and in the streets like to do, that they may be recognized and honored and praised by men. Truly I tell you, they have their reward in full already. 3 But when you give to charity, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, 4 So that your deeds of charity may be in secret; and your Father Who sees in secret will reward you openly.
Matthew 6:6 is speaking about our praying:
6 But when you pray, go into your [most] private room, and, closing the door, pray to your Father, Who is in secret; and your Father, Who sees in secret, will reward you in the open.
Matthew 5:11-12 is speaking of times when we endure persecution for our faith:
11 Blessed (happy, to be envied, and spiritually prosperous - with life-joy and satisfaction in God's favor and salvation, regardless of your outward conditions) are you when people revile you and persecute you and say all kinds of evil things against you falsely on My account. 17 Be glad and supremely joyful, for your reward in heaven is great (strong and intense), for in this way people persecuted the prophets who were before you.
And then Luke 6:35 speaks about walking in love:
35 But love your enemies and be kind and do good [doing favors so that someone derives benefit from them] and lend, expecting and hoping for nothing in return but considering nothing as lost and despairing of no one; and then your recompense (your reward) will be great (rich, strong, intense, and abundant) and you will be sons of the Most High, for He is kind and charitable and good to the ungrateful and the selfish and wicked
Our salvation from sin is a free gift, and not a reward or a wage for anything we have ever done! But, everything that we DO once we are born again WILL reap a reward, whether for good or evil, depending on the choices we have made! I KNOW you'll continue making the right ones, and have a great reward for it; in this life AND the next! Here is a song that is new to me! Aaron Keyes singing "Psalm 62 Song":
Love and Shalom from the Swoveys!
The word for this week is "reward". The Greek word for the Scriptures we'll be looking at is "misthos". Strong's Exhaustive Concordance says: pay for services, good or bad; hire, reward, wages. Thayer's Greek Lexicon says: dues paid for work; wager, hire (in both senses - rewards and punishments). We see this in Matthew 6:2-4 concerning our giving:
2 Thus, whenever you give to the poor, do not blow a trumpet before you, as the hypocrites in the synagogues and in the streets like to do, that they may be recognized and honored and praised by men. Truly I tell you, they have their reward in full already. 3 But when you give to charity, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, 4 So that your deeds of charity may be in secret; and your Father Who sees in secret will reward you openly.
Matthew 6:6 is speaking about our praying:
6 But when you pray, go into your [most] private room, and, closing the door, pray to your Father, Who is in secret; and your Father, Who sees in secret, will reward you in the open.
Matthew 5:11-12 is speaking of times when we endure persecution for our faith:
11 Blessed (happy, to be envied, and spiritually prosperous - with life-joy and satisfaction in God's favor and salvation, regardless of your outward conditions) are you when people revile you and persecute you and say all kinds of evil things against you falsely on My account. 17 Be glad and supremely joyful, for your reward in heaven is great (strong and intense), for in this way people persecuted the prophets who were before you.
And then Luke 6:35 speaks about walking in love:
35 But love your enemies and be kind and do good [doing favors so that someone derives benefit from them] and lend, expecting and hoping for nothing in return but considering nothing as lost and despairing of no one; and then your recompense (your reward) will be great (rich, strong, intense, and abundant) and you will be sons of the Most High, for He is kind and charitable and good to the ungrateful and the selfish and wicked
Our salvation from sin is a free gift, and not a reward or a wage for anything we have ever done! But, everything that we DO once we are born again WILL reap a reward, whether for good or evil, depending on the choices we have made! I KNOW you'll continue making the right ones, and have a great reward for it; in this life AND the next! Here is a song that is new to me! Aaron Keyes singing "Psalm 62 Song":
Love and Shalom from the Swoveys!
Sunday, August 14, 2011
Hi Brian!
The word for this week is "crave"! I really did some inside checking when that word came up! I couldn't find it in the KJV, but when I tried the Amplified Bible, I found this verse in 1 Peter 2:2-3:
2 Like newborn babies you should crave (thirst for, earnestly desire) the pure (unadulterated) spiritual milk, that by it you may be nurtured and grow unto [completed] salvation, 3 Since you have [already] tasted the goodness and kindness of the Lord.
In the KJV the word is "desire". It is the Greek word "epipotheo", which means; to dote upon, intensely crave possession, long (according to Strong's Exhaustive Concordance) and to long for greatly (according to Vine's Expository Dictionary. The Free (online) Dictionary says: to have intense desire for, to need urgently, require. To have an eager or intense desire for. I have found, in the 31 years since I received Jesus as Lord and personal Saviour, that the more I read and study the Word of God, the more sense it makes to me! At the same time, the error and wrong-thinking of the world stands out so clear! But for the intense desire for more of the Word, it has taken obedience to the Word I have already heard and understood. When, at times, I would hesitate or hold off from putting the Word to practice, I would find it easier to stay away and harder to WANT to be in the Word. Obedience is the key, and obedience is what pleases the Lord (1 Samuel 15:22)! When we truly understand that everything we are instructed to do in the Word of God has it's source in His great love for us, then it will be easier to make whatever adjustments may be necessary! Here is an older song from Hillsong called "One Thing". I hope that it will be a blessing to you!
Love and Shalom from the Swoveys
The word for this week is "crave"! I really did some inside checking when that word came up! I couldn't find it in the KJV, but when I tried the Amplified Bible, I found this verse in 1 Peter 2:2-3:
2 Like newborn babies you should crave (thirst for, earnestly desire) the pure (unadulterated) spiritual milk, that by it you may be nurtured and grow unto [completed] salvation, 3 Since you have [already] tasted the goodness and kindness of the Lord.
In the KJV the word is "desire". It is the Greek word "epipotheo", which means; to dote upon, intensely crave possession, long (according to Strong's Exhaustive Concordance) and to long for greatly (according to Vine's Expository Dictionary. The Free (online) Dictionary says: to have intense desire for, to need urgently, require. To have an eager or intense desire for. I have found, in the 31 years since I received Jesus as Lord and personal Saviour, that the more I read and study the Word of God, the more sense it makes to me! At the same time, the error and wrong-thinking of the world stands out so clear! But for the intense desire for more of the Word, it has taken obedience to the Word I have already heard and understood. When, at times, I would hesitate or hold off from putting the Word to practice, I would find it easier to stay away and harder to WANT to be in the Word. Obedience is the key, and obedience is what pleases the Lord (1 Samuel 15:22)! When we truly understand that everything we are instructed to do in the Word of God has it's source in His great love for us, then it will be easier to make whatever adjustments may be necessary! Here is an older song from Hillsong called "One Thing". I hope that it will be a blessing to you!
Love and Shalom from the Swoveys
Sunday, August 7, 2011
Hi Brian!
The word for this week is "renewing". Titus 3:5 says this:
5 Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy He saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost.
This is the Greek word "anakainoosis", which means: a renewal, renovation, complete change for the better; according Thayer's Greek Lexicon. At the New Birth, the Spirit of God instantly changes our previously dead human spirit, making us a new creation (2 Corinthians 5:17). Our soul (mind, emotions and will) is NOT instantly "renewed". Romans 12:2 says this:
2 And be not conformed to this world: But be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.
This "complete change for the better" of our soul is a process! This is the work of the Word of God (James 1:21). With the combination of our born again spirit and our "continually being renewed" soul, we begin to think, speak and act more like Jesus every day! I know that YOU are well on your way! Here is Hillsong's "We The Redeemed":
5 Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy He saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost.
This is the Greek word "anakainoosis", which means: a renewal, renovation, complete change for the better; according Thayer's Greek Lexicon. At the New Birth, the Spirit of God instantly changes our previously dead human spirit, making us a new creation (2 Corinthians 5:17). Our soul (mind, emotions and will) is NOT instantly "renewed". Romans 12:2 says this:
2 And be not conformed to this world: But be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.
This "complete change for the better" of our soul is a process! This is the work of the Word of God (James 1:21). With the combination of our born again spirit and our "continually being renewed" soul, we begin to think, speak and act more like Jesus every day! I know that YOU are well on your way! Here is Hillsong's "We The Redeemed":
Love and Shalom from the Swoveys!
Sunday, July 31, 2011
Hi Brian!
The word for this week is "escape"! We will look at two different passages of Scripture; one from the Old Testament and one from the New. First we'll look at the Hebrew word "palat", which means: to escape, to save, to deliver, to slip away, to bring into security, to deliver, to bring to safety according to Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew Lexicon. This is found in Psalm 71:1-3:
1 IN YOU, O LORD, do I trust and confidently take refuge; let me never be put to shame or confusion! 2 Deliver me in Your righteousness and cause me to escape; bow down Your ear to me and save me! 3 Be to me a rock of refuge in which to dwell, and a sheltering stronghold to which I may continually resort, which You have appointed to save me, for You are my Rock and my Fortress.
Next is the Greek word "ekbasis", which means: to go out, an exit (literally or figuratively), end, way to escape according to Strong's Exhaustive Concordance. This is found in 1 Corinthians 10:13-14:
13 For no temptation (no trial regarded as enticing to sin), [no matter how it comes or where is leads] has overtaken you and laid hold on you that is not common to man [that is, no temptation or trial has come to you that is beyond human resistance and that is not adjusted and adapted and belonging to human experience, and such as man can bear] But God is faithful [to His Word and to His compassionate nature], and He [can be trusted] not to let you be tempted and tried and assayed beyond your ability and strength of resistance and power to endure, but with the temptation He will [always] also provide the way out (the means of escape to a landing place), that you may be capable and strong and powerful to bear up under it patiently. 14 Therefore, my dearly beloved, shun (keep clear away from, avoid by flight if need be) any sort of idolatry (of loving or venerating anything more than God).
There is no situation we could ever face that would take God by surprise! He not only has the answer to every question and the solution to every problem, but He IS the Answer and the Solution! In order for us to walk in that Truth powerfully, we MUST keep HIM first place in our lives! He must be our "first love". When He is, then everyone else in our lives is loved far better by us than they were before! Kristine and Avery KNOW that you love them SO MUCH! As you get to know and love HIM more every day, your love for THEM will only grow deeper and more powerful! And THEY will recognize it! How awesome is that! Here is a new song from Hillsong called "The Difference":
Love and Shalom from the Swoveys!
The word for this week is "escape"! We will look at two different passages of Scripture; one from the Old Testament and one from the New. First we'll look at the Hebrew word "palat", which means: to escape, to save, to deliver, to slip away, to bring into security, to deliver, to bring to safety according to Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew Lexicon. This is found in Psalm 71:1-3:
1 IN YOU, O LORD, do I trust and confidently take refuge; let me never be put to shame or confusion! 2 Deliver me in Your righteousness and cause me to escape; bow down Your ear to me and save me! 3 Be to me a rock of refuge in which to dwell, and a sheltering stronghold to which I may continually resort, which You have appointed to save me, for You are my Rock and my Fortress.
Next is the Greek word "ekbasis", which means: to go out, an exit (literally or figuratively), end, way to escape according to Strong's Exhaustive Concordance. This is found in 1 Corinthians 10:13-14:
13 For no temptation (no trial regarded as enticing to sin), [no matter how it comes or where is leads] has overtaken you and laid hold on you that is not common to man [that is, no temptation or trial has come to you that is beyond human resistance and that is not adjusted and adapted and belonging to human experience, and such as man can bear] But God is faithful [to His Word and to His compassionate nature], and He [can be trusted] not to let you be tempted and tried and assayed beyond your ability and strength of resistance and power to endure, but with the temptation He will [always] also provide the way out (the means of escape to a landing place), that you may be capable and strong and powerful to bear up under it patiently. 14 Therefore, my dearly beloved, shun (keep clear away from, avoid by flight if need be) any sort of idolatry (of loving or venerating anything more than God).
There is no situation we could ever face that would take God by surprise! He not only has the answer to every question and the solution to every problem, but He IS the Answer and the Solution! In order for us to walk in that Truth powerfully, we MUST keep HIM first place in our lives! He must be our "first love". When He is, then everyone else in our lives is loved far better by us than they were before! Kristine and Avery KNOW that you love them SO MUCH! As you get to know and love HIM more every day, your love for THEM will only grow deeper and more powerful! And THEY will recognize it! How awesome is that! Here is a new song from Hillsong called "The Difference":
Love and Shalom from the Swoveys!
Sunday, July 24, 2011
Hi Brian,
The word for this week is "favor", or "favour" as the KJV Bible has it! There are a few different words translated favor in the Bible. The first one that we will be looking at is found in Genesis 39:21:
21 But the LORD was with Joseph, and shewed him mercy, and gave him favour in the sight of the keeper of the prison.
This is the Hebrew word "chen" which means: favor, grace, acceptance according to Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew Lexicon. Vine's Expository Dictionary says: favor, grace, to favor someone. The Dictionary definition for favor includes: an attitude of approval or liking, approving consideration or attention. God caused Joseph to find approval with the keeper of the prison so that He could bless him!
Another word is used in Psalm 5:12:
12 For You, LORD, will bless the righteous; with favour will You compass him as with a shield.
This is the Hebrew word "ratsown" which means: a pleasure, a delight, goodwill, acceptance, according to Brown-Driver-Briggs Lexicon. The righteous are those who have right standing with God, or the "right" to stand before Him as though we've never done anything wrong! We have the potential, as believers, to be received by the people who have influence in our lives with pleasure, delight and approval! That means on the job, in business, in friendships. What we DO with that favor will determine the results. Adding diligence, hard work, faith, consistency, creativity to what we do will assure us of positive results!
Then the last one that we'll look at is found in Luke 2:52:
52 And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and man.
This is the Greek word "charis" which means: graciousness, acceptance, favour, grace, liberality, pleasure, according to Strong's Exhaustive Concordance. Thayer's Greek Lexicon adds: good-will, loving-kindness. It is also translated grace in the New Testament. Jesus did this NOT because He was God, but because He obeyed God's Word, respected His parents, walked in love and meditated on the Word of God day and night (Joshua 1:8)! We CAN have the same results! Here is an old song from Hillsong called "One Day":
You ARE highly favored of the LORD! You have already done well with that favor. I am convinced that the best is yet to come!
Love and Shalom from the Swoveys!
The word for this week is "favor", or "favour" as the KJV Bible has it! There are a few different words translated favor in the Bible. The first one that we will be looking at is found in Genesis 39:21:
21 But the LORD was with Joseph, and shewed him mercy, and gave him favour in the sight of the keeper of the prison.
This is the Hebrew word "chen" which means: favor, grace, acceptance according to Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew Lexicon. Vine's Expository Dictionary says: favor, grace, to favor someone. The Dictionary definition for favor includes: an attitude of approval or liking, approving consideration or attention. God caused Joseph to find approval with the keeper of the prison so that He could bless him!
Another word is used in Psalm 5:12:
12 For You, LORD, will bless the righteous; with favour will You compass him as with a shield.
This is the Hebrew word "ratsown" which means: a pleasure, a delight, goodwill, acceptance, according to Brown-Driver-Briggs Lexicon. The righteous are those who have right standing with God, or the "right" to stand before Him as though we've never done anything wrong! We have the potential, as believers, to be received by the people who have influence in our lives with pleasure, delight and approval! That means on the job, in business, in friendships. What we DO with that favor will determine the results. Adding diligence, hard work, faith, consistency, creativity to what we do will assure us of positive results!
Then the last one that we'll look at is found in Luke 2:52:
52 And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and man.
This is the Greek word "charis" which means: graciousness, acceptance, favour, grace, liberality, pleasure, according to Strong's Exhaustive Concordance. Thayer's Greek Lexicon adds: good-will, loving-kindness. It is also translated grace in the New Testament. Jesus did this NOT because He was God, but because He obeyed God's Word, respected His parents, walked in love and meditated on the Word of God day and night (Joshua 1:8)! We CAN have the same results! Here is an old song from Hillsong called "One Day":
You ARE highly favored of the LORD! You have already done well with that favor. I am convinced that the best is yet to come!
Love and Shalom from the Swoveys!
Sunday, July 17, 2011
Hi Brian!
It was great to see you and your family this weekend! The word for this week is "adventure"! The only place the word is found in the KJV Bible is in Acts 19:31:
31 And certain of the chief of Asia, which were his friends, sent unto him, desiring him that he would not adventure himself into the theatre.
This is the Greek word "didomi", which, in general, means: to give something to someone, according to Thayer's Greek Lexicon. Vine's Expository Dictionary says: to give of oneself to go into a place, to adventure into. They were warning Paul NOT to go into the place because of what they feared might happen. I really believe that this life God has given us to live is meant to be a great adventure for us, as long as we are following HIS plan and purpose! Jesus DID say this in John 10:10:
10 The thief comes only in order to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have and enjoy life, and have it in abundance (to the full, till it overflows).
That sounds like a GREAT adventure to me! Here is Steven Curtis Chapman with an old song called "The Great Adventure"! I couldn't find one with lyrics, so I put them below!
[1 Cor 2:9-10, Eph 2:4-10]
Saddle up your horses
Started out this morning in the usual way
Chasing thoughts inside my head of all I had to do today
Another time around the circle try to make it better than the last
Chasing thoughts inside my head of all I had to do today
Another time around the circle try to make it better than the last
I opened up the Bible and I read about me
Said I'd been a prisoner and God's grace had set me free
And somewhere between the pages it hit me like a lightning bolt
I saw a big frontier in front of me and I heard somebody say "let's go"!
Said I'd been a prisoner and God's grace had set me free
And somewhere between the pages it hit me like a lightning bolt
I saw a big frontier in front of me and I heard somebody say "let's go"!
[Chorus:]
Saddle up your horses we've got a trail to blaze
Through the wild blue yonder of God's amazing grace
Let's follow our leader into the glorious unknown
This is a life like no other - this is The Great Adventure
Saddle up your horses we've got a trail to blaze
Through the wild blue yonder of God's amazing grace
Let's follow our leader into the glorious unknown
This is a life like no other - this is The Great Adventure
Come on get ready for the ride of your life
Gonna leave long faced religion in a cloud of dust behind
And discover all the new horizons just waiting to be explored
This is what we were created for
Gonna leave long faced religion in a cloud of dust behind
And discover all the new horizons just waiting to be explored
This is what we were created for
[Chorus]
[Bridge:]
We'll travel over, over mountains so high
We'll go through valleys below
Still through it all we'll find that
This is the greatest journey that the human heart will ever see
The love of God will take us far beyond our wildest dreams
We'll travel over, over mountains so high
We'll go through valleys below
Still through it all we'll find that
This is the greatest journey that the human heart will ever see
The love of God will take us far beyond our wildest dreams
Yeah... oh saddle up your horses... come on get ready to ride
[Chorus]
Love and Shalom from the Swoveys!
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