Hi Brian! 

We have three words for this week.  These are "harvest", "labourers" and "few" . We'll be looking at Matthew 9: 37-38:

37 Then saith he unto his disciples, The harvest truly is plenteous, but the labourers are few. Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he will send forth labourers into his harvest. KJV

"Harvest" is  the Greek word "therismos: Strong's Concordance says: reaping, the crop. "Labourers" is the Greek word "ergates", which Strong's Concordance says means a toiler, a teacher. Thayer's Greek Lexicon adds: one who does. The Theological Dictionary says: denotes action or active zeal. "Few" is the Greek word "oligos", which Strong's Concordance says means: puny (in extent, degree, number). Thayer's Greek Lexicon says: little, small. Vine's Expository Dictionary says: few, little, small, slight. The main focus in the verse above is the gathering of people into the kingdom of God! There are SO many people who have yet to call on JESUS to be their Lord and Saviour, yet the number of people who are actively involved with reaching them is PUNY, in comparison. So, our job is to pray, asking the Father for more labourers, and to be about our Father's business of seeking and saving the lost! I'm keeping it simple this week so that we can focus on God's priority! I plan on amping up my prayer life as it pertains to praying for others, and to keep myself available to Him in to be of use in winning these to Himself! Here is Hillsong with "No Reason To Hide":

Love and Shalom from the Swoveys!

Hi Brian!

I am going to do something this week that I haven't ever done yet. I am going to repost a blog that we had before. It's the word "Saviour", and it has kept coming up as I listen to Christmas music this last week. So, I believe a review is in order going into 2019 so that we can continue to operate at a very high level through all of the exciting things happening for your family! 

[GREAT game today! The word for this week is "Saviour". I couldn't believe we hadn't used that one yet! It's found in 24 verses in the New Testament, all of them referring to Jesus! Here are a few:

Luke 2:11 For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord KJV

2 Timothy 1:10 But is now made manifest by the appearing of our Saviour Jesus Christ, who hath abolished death, and hath brought life and immortality to light through the gospel: KJV

Titus 1:4 To Titus, mine own son after the common faith: Grace, mercy, and peace, from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ our Saviour. KJV

Titus 2:13 Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ; KJV

1 John 4:14 And we have seen and do testify that the Father sent the Son to be the Saviour of the world. KJV

Jude 25 To the only wise God our Saviour, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and ever. Amen. KJV

This is the Greek word "soter". Strong's Concordance says: a deliverer, i.e. God or Christ. Thayer's Greek Lexicon adds: preserver. "Soter" comes from the Greek word "sozo", which means, according to Strong's, to save, deliver, protect. Thayer's adds: to keep safe, to rescue, to make well, heal, restore to health. What Jesus accomplished through His death, burial and resurrection covers so much more than us simply escaping an eternity in hell and the lake of fire! What He accomplished, and what we receive when we accept Him as our personal Saviour, affects our entire being, spirit, soul and body! We are made new creatures, with our spirits being recreated in the image of God. We are made members of God's very own family, with all of the authority of Heaven backing us up. We have the full use of His Name as though it was our own, and it IS! Our identity is now found in HIM! The Weber name that you inherited from your parents meant something when it was given to you! What you have accomplished, along with your character, your work ethic, your attitudes and actions toward other people, have increased the value of that name! In JESUS we have been given the Name that is higher than any other name that has ever been given! One day, every person who has ever lived will bow to that Name! And HE is OUR Saviour! What a wonderful and powerful TRUTH that is!]

The song I want to share this week is a Hillsong Christmas song called "We Have A Saviour". 

Love and Shalom from the Swoveys!

Hi Brian! 

What a GREAT game that was! Renewed HOPE! The word for this week is "promise". We'll be looking at quite a few verses, all with the same Greek word translated 'promise'. 

Luke 24:49 And, behold, I send the promise of my Father upon you: but tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be endued with power from on high. KJV

Acts 2:39 For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call. KJV

Romans 4:19 And being not weak in faith, he considered not his own body now dead, when he was about an hundred years old, neither yet the deadness of Sara's womb: 20 He staggered not at the promise of God through unbelief; but was strong in faith, giving glory to God; 21 And being fully persuaded that, what he had promised, he was able also to perform. KJV

Galatians 3:29 And if ye be Christ's, then are ye Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise. KJV

Hebrews 6:13 For when God made promise to Abraham, because he could swear by no greater, he sware by himself, KJV

2 Peter 3:9 The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance. KJV

1 John 2:25 And this is the promise that he hath promised us, even eternal life. KJV

These are the Greek word "epaggelia". Strong's Concordance says: an announcement (for information, assent, or pledge, especially a divine assurance of good). Thayer's Greek Lexicon says: a promised good or blessing. Vine's Expository Dictionary says: primarily a law term, an undertaking to do or give something. It is used only of the promises of God. It signifies a gift graciously bestowed and not a pledge secured by negotiation. So the promises of God that we find in the Word are sure and certain, because they are HIS! When we find a promise in the Word, it is there for us to grab by faith and fully expect that He will fulfill it! (I love the line in the song 'Oceans' that says: "You've never failed, and You won't start now!") In Romans 4:19-21 above we see that Abraham took a promise from God that seemed to the natural eye to be completely impossible and stood on it until he saw it! He waffled some in his belief, but God is well able to help our unbelief! (Check out Mark 9:23-25) I also love that 2 Peter 3:9 tells us that when there is a delay, it is not because God is 'slack', but that He is patiently working for the very BEST opportunity for US! So, we meditate on the promises with expectant hope and eager anticipation of just HOW He is going to do it, because we KNOW that He WILL! Here is another new song from Hillsong Kids called "Voices of Freedom":

Love and Shalom from the Swoveys!

Hi Brian!

The word for this week is "troubled". We'll be looking at the Greek word found in these verses:

John 12:27 Now is my soul troubled; and what shall I say? Father, save me from this hour: but for this cause came I unto this hour. KJV

John 14:1 Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. KJV

John 14:27 Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world gives, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid. KJV

These are all the Greek word "tarasso". Strong's Concordance says to stir or agitate. Thayer's Greek Lexicon says: to cause one inward commotion, take away his calmness of mind, disturb his equanimity, to disquiet, to make restless, to render anxious or distressed, to perplex the mind. This is a state that it is NOT the will of God for our hearts and minds to be in! We are to cast all of our care over on Him (1 Peter 5:7) so that WE are free to be led by Holy Spirit to minister His LIFE to those in our realm of influence! If satan can keep us 'troubled' by situations and circumstances, then he has won a great victory over us and will be able to hinder our gaining Wisdom from God's Word. I choose to refuse! I will not allow my heart to become troubled! Once we know his tactics, then we are well able to exercise our God-given authority over him and to reinforce God's plan for our lives! As you go into the building of your new home, you and Kristine will have many will opportunities to become 'troubled'. We are praying and agreeing with you both that everything will progress smoothly, efficiently, in a timely fashion and be exactly as you desire it to be. In JESUS' Name! AMEN! Here is a new song from Hillsong UNITED that I really LOVE! It is actually like an anthem, to stir up the LIFE that is in us because of JESUS! This song is called: "Good Grace"!

Love and Shalom from the Swoveys!

Hi Brian!

The word for this week is "reaching". It's found only one time in the New Testament, but it is one of my favorite verses! Philippians 3:13:

13 Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, KJV

This is the Greek word "epekteinomai". Strong's Concordance says: to stretch oneself forward. Thayer's  Greek Lexicon says: to stretch out or forward. This is a compound word with the first part being "epi", which Strong's Concordance says is a primary preposition which can mean a superimposition of time, place, order and has to do with direction. Vine's Expository Dictionary says: this word contains an intensive form of "epi". So the focus in this verse is one of refusing to be hindered by dwelling on the past, which could refer to failures OR successes, and instead focusing on what we have ahead of us to accomplish. Here, for a little more context, are verses 12-14 from the Amplified Bible:

12 Not that I have now attained [this ideal], or have already been made perfect, but I press on to lay hold of (grasp) and make my own, that for which Christ Jesus (the Messiah) has laid hold of me and made me His own. 13 I do not consider, brethren, that I have captured and made it my own [yet]; but one thing I do [it is my one aspiration]: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, 14 I press on toward the goal to win the [supreme and heavenly] prize to which God in Christ Jesus is calling us upward. AMP

Everything that God has promised us in His Word belongs to us, but can only be attained by reaching, stretching, growing, changing and seizing them by faith! It takes patience, diligence, persistence, and a refusal to give up or quit. With that kind of commitment, NOTHING is impossible! All of the wonderful blessings, promotions, favor, riches and rewards that you and your family have experienced, just in this last year alone, are a result of just that attitude! We are praying and believing with you all for even more and better things in the coming year! Here are Hillsong Kids again with "We Came To Meet With You":

Love and Shalom from the Swoveys!

Hi Brian! 

The word for this week is "mind". There are several words translated "mind" in the Bible. We'll be looking at two of them this week and maybe tackle the others another time! We'll be looking at theses verses:

Matthew 22:37 Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. KJV

Mark 12:30 And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength: this is the first commandment. KJV

Romans 12:2 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God. KJV

Romans 14:5 One man esteems one day above another: another esteems every day alike. Let every man be fully persuaded in his own mind. KJV

In the first two verses we're looking at the Greek word "dianoia". Strong's Concordance says: deep thought, the faculty and it's exercise. Thayer's Greek Lexicon adds: the understanding or thought. Vine's Expository Dictionary says: a thinking through or over, a meditation, a reflecting, the faculty of knowing, This is actually a compound word. The first part is "dia", which Strong's Concordance says means: the channel of an act. Thayer's Greek Lexicon adds: through. The second part of this compound word is actually the Greek word used in the last two verses above. "Nous". Strong's concordance says: The intellect. Thayer's Greek Lexicon adds: the intellective faculty, the understanding, the faculty of perceiving, of recognizing, the power of considering and judging soberly, calmly and impartially. We know that we are spirit beings. When we receive JESUS as Lord and Saviour, our previously dead spirit is reborn, made new and in the image of God. A new creation that never existed before. While we ARE spirit beings, we also possess souls, which consist of our mind, emotions and will. THIS is where all of the decisions and choices are made! In order to make the right choices, we must do what Romans 12:2 above says and renew those minds with the Word of God! By meditating on God's Word as we are instructed in Joshua 1:8, the Word comes alive IN us so that we can obey that Word and then stand upon it in faith! Controlling our thought life by recognizing where the thoughts are originating from, and then either rejecting those thoughts and replacing them with the right thoughts, or accepting them and continuing to meditate on them, will cause us to grow in faith and in knowledge and understanding of God's Word! I love to learn the Word through music. That's one of the reasons that I like to post songs with all of my blogs. Here, for you today, is another kids song from Hillsong Kids' new album Can You Believe It? called "You Know Me":

Love and Shalom from the Swoveys!

Hi Brian!

The word for this week is "plenteous". We find it in these two verses in the Old Testament and in one verse in the New Testament. 

Psalm 86:5 For thou, Lord, art good, and ready to forgive; and plenteous in mercy unto all them that call upon thee. KJV

Psalm 103:8 The Lord is merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and plenteous in mercy. KJV

Matthew 9:36-38 But when he saw the multitudes, he was moved with compassion on them, because they fainted, and were scattered abroad, as sheep having no shepherd. 37 Then saith he unto his disciples, The harvest truly is plenteous, but the labourers are few; 38 Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he will send forth labourers into his harvest. KJV

In the two verses in Psalms we have the Hebrew word "rab", which, according to Strong's Concordance and the Theological Dictionary, means: abundant in quantity, size, age, number, rank or quality. Then in Matthew we have the Greek word "polus", which Strong's Concordance says means: much, many, largely, and Thayer's Greek Lexicon says means: great , strong, intense, large. Thayer's also says that this word denotes an emotion, a state, which can be said to have measure, weight, force, intensity, size or continuance. So in any and every instance, this word seems to indicate a sense of something more. His mercy is without end and is ever available whenever each of us needs it. (Thank You, JESUS, for that wonderful Truth!) And the harvest, or those needing, and wanting, JESUS as Saviour, is also ever changing as more and more people realize their need for the Saviour. Actually, even as I have been looking into this word, it has become one of my favorite new words! Plenteous just has such a nice, quietly powerful ring to it! I think I will start speaking this word over every area of my life, and those I love! That will definitely include you and Kristine and my four beautiful and unique God-granddaughters! This study also brought to mind this song from Hillsong Young and Free's Youth Revival album called "This Is Real Love":

Love and Shalom from the Swoveys!

Hi Brian!

The word for this week is "assurance". We find it in these four portions of Scripture in the New Testament:

Colossians 2:2 That their hearts might be comforted, being knit together in love, and unto all riches of the full assurance of understanding, to the acknowledgement of the mystery of God, and of the Father, and of Christ; 3 In whom are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. KJV

1 Thessalonians 1:5 For our gospel came not unto you in word only, but also in power, and in the Holy Ghost, and in much assurance; as ye know what manner of men we were among you for your sake. KJV

Hebrews 6:11 And we desire that every one of you do shew the same diligence to the full assurance of hope unto the end: 12 That ye be not slothful, but followers of them who through faith and patience inherit the promises. KJV

Hebrews 10:21 And having an high priest over the house of God; 22 Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water. KJV

In each instance the Greek word used is "plerophoria". Strong's Concordance says: entire confidence. Thayer's Greek Lexicon adds: Fullness, abundance. Vine's Expository Dictionary says: A full carrying, full fruitfulness. The Theological Dictionary says: supreme  fullness, certainty. Our Father's plan is to have us SO aware of His presence that we never lack confidence in doing the things that He instructs us to do! In all of these verses we find that there truly is NOTHING that can ever separate us from God and His Love.When we have that firmly established in our hearts, then we can operate in a level of faith that can 'see' the answer as clearly inside as our eyes will see when we have the manifestation of what we believe. That's when we can, by standing on the Word of God, be "fully persuaded", which is also another form of this same Greek word: plerophoreo. We find that in these two verses:

Romans 4:21 And being fully persuaded that, what he had promised, he was able also to perform. KJV

Romans 14:5 One man esteems one day above another: another esteems every day alike. Let every man be fully persuaded in his own mind. KJV

I am in agreement with you, Kristine and your family for everything that you are believing God for! I am expecting that this next year will be the very BEST and most BLESSED of your lives so far! And THIS is only the beginning! Be assured! Here is Hillsong Kids with "Made In Your Image":

Love and Shalom from the Swoveys!

Hi Brian!

What a great win! Especially that DEFENSE! The word for this week is "friend". We'll be looking at these verses:

John 3:29 He that hath the bride is the bridegroom: but the friend of the bridegroom, which standeth and heareth him, rejoices greatly because of the bridegroom's voice: this my joy therefore is fulfilled. KJV

James 2:23 And [so] the Scripture was fulfilled that says, Abraham believed in (adhered to, trusted in, and relied on) God, and this was accounted to him as righteousness (as conformity to God's will in thought and deed), and he was called God's friend.  AMP

James 4:4 You [are like] unfaithful wives [having illicit love affairs with the world and breaking your marriage vow to God]! Do you not know that being the world's friend is being God's enemy? So whoever chooses to be a friend of the world takes his stand as an enemy of God. AMP

These are all the Greek word "philios". Strong's Concordance says: a friend, actively fond, friendly. The Theological Dictionary says: friend, loved one. If we are truly the friend  of God, then we will LOVE what God loves and HATE what God hates! In John 3 we are told that the proper attitude all believers should have is the"attitude of gratitude", rejoicing with all who rejoice. That unselfish response will increase out capacity to receive even more! Abraham was called the friend of God because he dared to BELIEVE what God had said about him, and acted on it And then James is showing us that we cannot have the same attitude toward the world that we have toward God. We must love the lost, but never be too attached to the world's way of doing things. And also, good friends are valuable gifts from God into our lives, but there is NO better FRIEND that JESUS, Who can be counted on NO MATTER WHAT! ! I LOVE that! Here is another new song from Hillsong KIds new album, Can You Believe It, called "Ask Seek Knock":

Love and Shalom from the Swoveys!

Hi Brian!

I am very excited for the Weber family's new adventure! Such a wonderful blessing and perfect timing! God is GOOD! SO, in honor of the building of your new home, the word for this week is going to be "builder". It is only found once in the New Testament. Hebrews 11:8-10:

8 By faith Abraham, when he was called to go out into a place which he should after receive for an inheritance, obeyed; and he went out, not knowing whither he went. 9 By faith he sojourned in the land of promise, as in a strange country, dwelling in tabernacles with Isaac and Jacob, the heirs with him of the same promise:10 For he looked for a city which hath foundations, whose builder and maker is God. KJV

"Builder" here is the Greek word "technites", pronounced (tekh - nee`-tace). Strong's concordance says: an artisan, a founder. Thayer's Greek Lexicon says: an artificer, craftsman. Vine's Expository Dictionary adds: one who does a thing by rules of art, architect. These verses from the 'faith' chapter, or, as some call it, the Hall of Faith, are very appropriate for your new situation! We will be praying up the 'builders' of your home, and everyone they will have working with them. Everyone who has any part to play in the building of your home will be covered with prayer for Wisdom, Anointing, skill, honesty, meticulousness, thoroughness, creativity, artistry and FAVOR! Your new  home will be all that you and Kristine and your beautiful girls can dream of, and so much more! Thank You, JESUS! Here is Hillsong Kids with another song from their new album called "Heaven Is Our Home":

Love and Shalom from the Swoveys!

Hi Brian!

The word for this week is "shake". The particular Greek word we'll be looking at is found in these two portions of Scripture. 

Matthew 28:2 And, behold, there was a great earthquake: for the angel of the Lord descended from heaven, and came and rolled back the stone from the door, and sat upon it. 3 His countenance was like lightning, and his raiment white as snow: 4 And for fear of him the keepers did shake, and became as dead men. KJV

Hebrews 12:26 Whose voice then shook the earth: but now he hath promised, saying, Yet once more I shake not the earth only, but also heaven. 27 And this word, Yet once more, signifieth the removing of those things that are shaken, as of things that are made, that those things which cannot be shaken may remain. 28 Wherefore we receiving a kingdom which cannot be moved, let us have grace, whereby we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear: 29 For our God is a consuming fire. KJV

These are both the Greek word "seio". Strong's Concordance says: a primary verb; to rock (vibrate sideways or to and fro), to agitate in any direction, to cause to tremble, to throw into a tremor of fear or concern. Those watching over the tomb were trembling in fear as they saw the angel of the Lord! They were in such fear that they fainted! In Hebrews we see that the Lord's voice causes things to shake, both in the spiritual realm and in the natural. When this shaking happens, we who are in fellowship with the Lord, in the Word of God and in prayer, praise and worship, will NOT be 'shaken', but all those things that are not important will fall away. Only what is real and true will remain at the forefront of our lives. In that place is where we will have full confidence that we are on a firm foundation that cannot be moved! As we see people tremble in fear all around us for the things that are happening on the earth, we will be the stable ones to whom they can come for help! And I fully expect that your beautiful, sweet, funny, smart, loving little ladies will be strong 'rocks' that their friends will turn to, also! You and Kristine have done to well in training them! That is one reason that I like this song from the new Hillsong Kids album called "As The World Shakes".

Love and Shalom from the Swoveys!

Hi Brian!

That was a great win and a fun game! So glad you are having a fun time with your lovely ladies! The word for this week is "ashamed". We'll be looking at just one of the Greek words translated 'ashamed' this time. It is found in these verses:

Luke 9:26 For whosoever shall be ashamed of me and of my words, of him shall the Son of man be ashamed, when he shall come in his own glory, and in his Father's, and of the holy angels. KJV

Romans 1:16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek. KJV

Hebrews 2:11 For both he that sanctifieth and they who are sanctified are all of one: for which cause he is not ashamed to call them brethren, 12 Saying, I will declare thy name unto my brethren, in the midst of the church will I sing praise unto thee. KJV

Hebrews 11:16 But now they desire a better country, that is, an heavenly: wherefore God is not ashamed to be called their God: for he hath prepared for them a city. KJV

These are all the Greek word "epaischunomai". Strong's Concordance says: this is a compound word from 'epi' which is a preposition relating to direction, in this case towards, and 'aischos', which means to feel shame. Thayer's Greek Lexicon says of 'aischos': to disfigure, dishonor, make ashamed. Vine's Expository Dictionary says: to have a feeling of fear or shame which prevents a person from doing a thing, the feeling of shame arising from something that has been done, the possibility of being ashamed. The dictionary definition of 'ashamed' is: feeling embarrassed, guilty or distressed because of something said or done. Luke is saying that if we allow ourselves to be ashamed of the Lord, His Word or His ways, then He will also be ashamed of us. But then Hebrews says that He is not ashamed to be our God or to call us His brethren! The other side of that is that He is PROUD to call us His own! And then we have the verse in Romans that WE declare! We are NOT ashamed of the Gospel, because that Gospel contains the power for our Salvation in every area of life! (Salvation here being the Greek word "soteria", which we've covered before and is deliverance, preservation, safety). The more that we learn and know about the Lord, His Word and His ways, the more real and logical it becomes! Instead of being embarrassed or distressed about that, I find myself being more distressed and sad for the condition of those who don't know Him and don't want to! They have no idea what they are missing out on! Such a blessed and favored life! It has been such a blessing to watch God's favor and blessing on your family because you and Kristine have chosen to put Him first and to TRUST!  And now your girls are doing the same! Well done! We love you all! Here is Hillsong UNITED with an older song called "I'm Not Ashamed":

Love and Shalom from the Swoveys!

Hi Brian!

The word for this week is "authority". We'll be looking at these verses:

Luke 4:36 And they were all amazed, and spake among themselves, saying, What a word is this! for with authority and power he commandeth the unclean spirits, and they come out. KJV

Luke 9:1 Then he called his twelve disciples together, and gave them power and authority over all devils, and to cure diseases. KJV

The first two verses are the Greek word "exousia". Strong's Concordance says: privilege, force, capacity, competency, freedom, mastery, delegated influence. Thayer's Greek Lexicon says: power of choice, liberty of doing as one pleases, physical and mental power, ability and strength with which one is endued, the power of rule of government. The Theological Dictionary says ability, then the right, authority or permission. So authority involves not only the permission or freedom to use delegated power, given from one with the higher authority, but also all of the capability to exercise that power. That includes all of the ability, intelligence, wisdom, strength, competence and intuitiveness to carry it out well! This is what JESUS was saying in Matthew 28:18-20, where "exousia" is translated "power":

18 And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. 19 Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: 20 Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen. KJV

All power was given to JESUS as He conquered satan, and HE gave that to US as His body, His church and His bride! We have His ability and His permission to use it! When we find what the Word of God says is ours and we declare it to be so, then He confirms what WE say, as though He had said it Himself. We are believing for a most blessed, favored, protected, fun and thoroughly enjoyable vacation for you and all of your beautiful ladies! Have a wonderful time! We can't wait to see the pictures! Here is Hillsong Kids again with "This Is Living". I especially like this verse as we think about Disney World! 

You lift me up fill my eyes with wonder
Forever young in Your love
This freedom’s untainted with You
No moment is wasted

Love and Shalom from the Swoveys!

Hi Brian!

The word for this week is "hallelujah". This is actually the Hebrew word. Found in Psalm 111:1 and 112:1, Psalm 104 and 105 at the end, Psalm 106 and 135 both beginning and end, and Psalm 146-150. Here are a few of those:

Psalm 111:1 Praise ye the Lord. I will praise the Lord with my whole heart, in the assembly of the upright, and in the congregation. KJV

Psalm 112:1 Praise ye the Lord. Blessed is the man that feareth the Lord, that delighteth greatly in his commandments. KJV

Psalm 104:35 Let the sinners be consumed out of the earth, and let the wicked be no more. Bless thou the Lord, O my soul. Praise ye the Lord. KJV

Psalm 105:45 That they might observe his statutes, and keep his laws. Praise ye the Lord. KJV

Psalm 106:1 Praise ye the Lord. O give thanks unto the Lord; for he is good: for his mercy endureth forever. KJV

Psalm 106:48 Blessed be the Lord God of Israel from everlasting to everlasting: and let all the people say, Amen. Praise ye the Lord. KJV

Psalm 135:1 Praise ye the Lord. Praise ye the name of the Lord; praise him, O ye servants of the Lord.
KJV

Psalm 135:21 Blessed be the Lord out of Zion, which dwelleth at Jerusalem. Praise ye the Lord. KJV

"Praise ye the Lord" in all of these verses is "halal", from which we get the English word "hallelujah"  and which according to Strong's Concordance, means: To be clear, to shine, to make a show, to boast, to be clamorously foolish, to rave, to celebrate, also to 'stultify' (cause to appear foolish). We SHOULD be having a great celebration every time we praise HIM! Every good thing in our lives came from and through HIM! The new Hillsong Kids album has a fun song called "I Give You My Hallelujah", so I'm using that one today! 

Love and Shalon from the Swoveys!

Hi Brian!

The word for this week is "Saviour". We'll be looking at these verses:

Titus 2:11-14 For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men,12 Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world;13 Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ;14 Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works.  KJV

Jude 24 Now unto him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy, 25 To the only wise God our Saviour, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and ever. Amen. KJV

These are both the Greek word "soter". Strong's Concordance says: a deliverer, God or Christ. Thayer's Greek Lexicon adds: preserver.  It comes from the Greek word "sozo". Strong's Concordance says: to save, to deliver, to protect. Thayer's Greek Lexicon adds: to save, to keep safe and sound, to rescue from danger and destruction, to save a suffering one. JESUS not only took our sin upon Himself, He also BECAME all that we will ever need! He is our BEST Friend! And, He lives IN us! There is SO much more to what JESUS has done for us and in us, and it will take us eternity to find it all out! Here is Hillsong Kids with a new take on an old song called "My Best Friend": \

Love and Shalom from the Swoveys!

Hi Brian!

The word for this week is "haughty". We find it in these verses in the New Testament:

Luke 1:51 He has shown strength and made might with His arm; He has scattered the proud and haughty in and by the imagination and purpose and designs of their hearts. AMP

Rom 1:28 And since they did not see fit to acknowledge God, God gave them up to a debased mind to do what ought not to be done. 29 They were filled with all manner of unrighteousness, evil, covetousness, malice. They are full of envy, murder, strife, deceit, maliciousness. They are gossips, 30 slanderers, haters of God, insolent, haughty, boastful, inventors of evil, disobedient to parents, 31 foolish, faithless, heartless, ruthless. 32 Though they know God's decree that those who practice such things deserve to die, they not only do them but give approval to those who practice them. ESV

2 Tim 3:1 But know this, that in the last days grievous times shall come. 2 For men shall be lovers of self, lovers of money, boastful, haughty, railers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, 3 without natural affection, implacable, slanderers, without self-control, fierce, no lovers of good, 4 traitors, headstrong, puffed up, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God; 5 holding a form of godliness, but having denied the power therefore. From these also turn away. ASV

James 4:6 But He gives us more and more grace (power of the Holy Spirit, to meet this evil tendency and all others fully). That is why He says, God sets Himself against the proud and haughty, but gives grace [continually] to the lowly (those who are humble enough to receive it).  AMP

These are all the Greek word "huperephanos". Strong's Concordance says: to show oneself above others, is always used in the NT in the evil sense of 'arrogant, disdainful, haughty', also rendered proud. Thayer's Greek Lexicon says: with an overweening estimate of one's means and merits, despising others or even treating them with contempt. The Theological Dictionary says: insolent, arrogant and boastful. It seems as though most of these are referring to the character of people without God during the 'last days', the time just before JESUS returns for the church.  We see so much evidence of this in almost every realm of life these days! It seems especially evident on social media sites. I believe that the very best way to avoid ever coming off as haughty is to continually remember that everything good in our lives comes from God! We simply add diligence to the Wisdom, knowledge, understanding, gifts and talents, abilities, favor and godly connections that He has provided. When we maintain a thankful and grateful attitude, the thought of looking down on someone never enters in! Also, realizing that HE sees every person as precious and valuable helps, too! And love never fails, so we will continue to walk in His blessing! Here is Hillsong with an older song called "One Way":

Love and Shalom from the Swoveys!

Hi Brian!

Great win! The word for this week is 'hypocrite(s)'. Jesus used this word when he spoke to the religious leaders of His day who should have known and spoken the Truth, but they did not! We'll be looking at these verses:

Matthew 6:2 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.  AMP

Matthew 6:5 Also when you pray, you must not be like the hypocrites, for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the corners of the streets, that they may be seen by people. Truly I tell you, they have their reward in full already.  AMP

Matthew 6:16 And whenever you are fasting, do not look gloomy and sour and dreary like the hypocrites, for they put on a dismal countenance, that their fasting may be apparent to and seen by men. Truly I say to you, they have their reward in full already.  [Isa 58:5.] 17 But when you fast, perfume your head and wash your face, 18 So that your fasting may not be noticed by men but by your Father, Who sees in secret; and your Father, Who sees in secret, will reward you in the open. AMP

Matthew 15:6-8 So for the sake of your tradition (the rules handed down by your forefathers), you have set aside the Word of God [depriving it of force and authority and making it of no effect]. 7 You pretenders (hypocrites)! Admirably and truly did Isaiah prophesy of you when he said:  8 These people draw near Me with their mouths and honor Me with their lips, but their hearts hold off and are far away from Me.  AMP

Matthew 23:13 But woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, pretenders (hypocrites)! For you shut the kingdom of heaven in men's faces; for you neither enter yourselves, nor do you allow those who are about to go in to do so. AMP

Mark 7:6 But He said to them, Excellently and truly [so that there will be no room for blame] did Isaiah prophesy of you, the pretenders and hypocrites, as it stands written: These people [constantly] honor Me with their lips, but their hearts hold off and are far distant from Me. AMP

These are all the Greek word "hupokrites". Strong's Concordance says: an actor under an assumed character (stage player), a dissembler. Thayer's Greek Lexicon says:  one who answers, an interpreter. An actor, stage-player. In  Vine's Expository Dictionary we see this: primarily denotes one who answers. The Theological Dictionary of the New Testament says: the term conveys the sense of evildoer or apostate. The sayings of the false teachers are deceitful, for they contradict the Truth of God! 

There will always be those who are NOT sincere and who pretend to be something that they are not. Their hypocrisy does not change the Truth! God's Word is TRUTH (John 17:17)! The Spirit of God within gives us the ability to discern the difference. There is such a difference in the lives of those who are taught, and believe, God’s Word! It is such a blessing to know that you and Kristine, and now your beautiful daughters, treasure and trust the Word of God! There IS no higher authority! Here is Hillsong with "Forever Reign":

Love and Shalom from the Swoveys!

Hi Brian!

The word for this week is "marvel". We'll be looking at these verses:

Mark 5:20 And he departed, and began to publish in Decapolis how great things Jesus had done for him: and all men did marvel. KJV

John 3:7 Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again. KJV

John 5:20 For the Father loveth the Son, and sheweth him all things that himself doeth: and he will shew him greater works than these, that ye may marvel. KJV

These are all the Greek word "thaumazo". Strong's concordance says: to admire. Thayer's Greek Lexicon says: to wonder, to be admired. People were astounded by what they saw manifest in the lives of ordinary people when they came in contact with JESUS! The Amplified Bible is great for these verses:

Mark 5:20 And he departed and began to publicly proclaim in Decapolis [the region of the ten cities] how much Jesus had done for him, and all the people were astonished and marveled. AMP

John 3:7 Marvel not [do not be surprised, astonished] at My telling you, You must all be born anew (from above).  AMP

John 5:20 The Father dearly loves the Son and discloses to (shows) Him everything that He Himself does. And He will disclose to Him (let Him see) greater things yet than these, so that you may marvel and be full of wonder and astonishment. AMP

We will, and should, always be in awe of the presence of the Lord, and of His Word, His ways and His plans and purposes. But the more time that we spend in His presence and doing the Word that we know, the more real His presence will become. At that time we won't have to be astonished and surprised by what He does, but WE will be able to walk in the same power! Jesus said that we would do the works that He had done, and even greater works! John 14:12:

John 14:12 I assure you, most solemnly I tell you, if anyone steadfastly believes in Me, he will himself be able to do the things that I do; and he will do even greater things than these, because I go to the Father.  AMP

We have the most exciting life to look forward to! Not just in Heaven, but in the here and now as we continue to DO what HE has given us to do! Here is Hillsong Young and Free with another new song called "First Love":

Love and Shalom from the Swoveys!

Hi Brian!

The word for this week is repentance. We'll be looking at two different Greek words here. The first is found in 2 Corinthians 7:9-10:

9 Now I rejoice, not that ye were made sorry, but that ye sorrowed to repentance: for ye were made sorry after a godly manner, that ye might receive damage by us in nothing. 10 For godly sorrow worketh repentance to salvation not to be repented of: but the sorrow of the world worketh death. KJV

This is the Greek word "metanoia". Strong's Concordance says: reversal of decision. Thayer's Greek Lexicon says: a change of mind. Vine's Expository Dictionary says: 'In the New Testament the subject chiefly has reference to repentance from, and this change of mind involves both a turning from sin and a turning to God.' So, even though repentance under the Old Covenant showed up in a tearing of clothes and a showing of emotional sorrow, the New Covenant gives us the promise of continual forgiveness for sin as we confess (acknowledge) the sin and then turn away from it! The second Greek word is found in Romans 11:29:

29 For the gifts and calling of God are without repentance. KJV

This is the Greek Word "ametameletos". Strong's Concordance says: irrevocable. Vine's Expository Dictionary says: unregretted, without a change of purpose. So, where we CAN change our thinking to agree with God and get on the right track, God is ALWAYS on the right track and will NEVER change the His Word or His ways! What He has promised us does not change with our attitudes and behaviour because it was never based on us, but on Him and out of His great love! When WE get back on track when we've missed it, God, His Word, His promises, His gifts and His calling on our lives is right where we left them! Such a wonderful confidence that gives me! I desire to get 'off track' less and less and to take more advantage of this blessed life He's given. But, WHEN I do, I 'repent' quickly and get right back!  Here is Hillsong Young and Free with another song from their new album called "Heart of God":

Love and Shalom from the Swoveys!

Hi Brian! 

It looks like you and your family are having a great time in Chicago! The word for this week is "advocate". It's found only one time in the New Testament. 1 John 2:1:

My little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous: KJV

This is the Greek word "parakletos". Strong's Concordance says: an intercessor, consoler. Thayer's Greek Lexicon adds: summoned, called to one's side, called to one's aid, one who pleads another's case before a judge, a pleader, counsel for the defense, legal assistant. Also a helper, succorer. This is reassurance for us that if/when we sin after the new birth, when our spirits are made new and the sin nature is gone, HE is still pleading our case before the Father so that His blood will continually cleanse us from ALL sin! When we meditate on this Truth so that it becomes real to us, then the enemy will no longer be able to get us to accept condemnation for our shortcomings and failures. The goal is to no longer have consciousness of sin, but one of righteousness. To know who we are as children of the Most High God who are seated IN HIM in those heavenly places (Ephesians 2:6)! This is one of the most freeing Truths that I have ever learned! That I am not defined by my limitations, but by HIS work in me! I AM who HE says I am, whether I look like it or not! Children raised with this reality will truly believe that they CAN DO ANYTHING (Philippians 4:13 AMP)! Here is Hillsong Young and Free with "Every Little Thing":

VERSE 1: Your favour waits within the future My dreams are small compared to Yours Why should I worry about tomorrow when I know That all I gotta do is trust You Lord CHORUS: Every little thing is gonna be alright Every little thing is gonna be just fine Whether I can see it now I know You will work it out for good Every little thing Everything will be alright VERSE 2: Behind the scenes and in the details You plan the perfect way for me Why would I dwell upon the road’s uncertainties When all I gotta do is look to You

Love and Shalom from the Swoveys!

Hi Brian! 

The word for this week is "arise". We'll be looking at two verses in particular, both from the Old Testament. 

Psalm 68:1 Let God arise, let his enemies be scattered: let them also that hate him flee before him. KJV

Micah 7:8 Rejoice not against me, O mine enemy: when I fall, I shall arise; when I sit in darkness, the Lord shall be a light unto me. KJV

These are both the Hebrew word "quwm" (koom). Strong's Concordance says: a primitive root: to rise (in various applications, literal, figurative, intensive and causative). Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew Lexicon says: to rise, to stand, to stand up, to become powerful, to be established, to endure, to persist. Vine's Expository Dictionary adds this: Sometimes used in an intensive mood to signify empowering or strengthening. In a military context, it may mean to engage in battle. When we put our trust in God as our Protector and Defender, we are trusting the the ONE Who has never failed and Who has the Name at which every other name bows down! His enemies scatter in all directions when HE comes on the scene. I love Romans 8:31:

31 What then shall we say to [all] this? If God is for us, who [can be] against us? [Who can be our foe, if God is on our side?] AMP 

I also like this paraphrase of that verse:

If God is for us, then it doesn't do anyone, any good to be against us! Why? Because they will ultimately fail! No one can defeat GOD! Then in Micah we see the attitude that a born again believer should have if they know their authority! We will all face situations, circumstances, tests, trials, temptations and problems, but we never have to give in to them! 1 Corinthians 10:13 tells us this:

13 For no temptation (no trial regarded as enticing to sin), [no matter how it comes or where it 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. AMP

So, the warning to the enemy is, 'don't ever think you've won over me, because I will just get back up and see YOU defeated'! Besides, we know the end of the book and what his future holds! WE can always get back up, but he cannot! Knowing these things should cause us to operate in all things without fear! Here is Hillsong Worship again with a song that I have really taken a liking to! "Who You Say I Am":

Love and Shalom from the Swoveys!

Hi Brian!

The word for this week is "separate". We'll be looking at Romans 8:35-39:

35 Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? 36 As it is written, For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter. 37 Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us. 38 For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, 39 Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. KJV

"Shall separate" is the Greek word "chorizo". Strong's Concordance says: to place room between, to part, to go away. Thayer's Greek Lexicon says: to divide, to put asunder, to go away. Vine's Expository Dictionary says: to separate oneself, to depart. Next to the Truth found in 2 Corinthians 5, that we are made completely new creations at the New Birth, this Truth is the most exciting and empowering! We really are who God says that we are, even though we sometimes don't look or act like it. We really can do what God says that we can, even when we make mistakes. Nothing that the enemy can do, no trick or trap or scheme or strategy, can ever actually harm us in any lasting way. Jesus always gives us a way of escape (1 Corinthians 10:13) and restores us right back to where we were before we stumbled! There is such freedom in knowing that we are in a permanent relationship with the God of the universe and that nothing can ever change that relationship. I will, for all of eternity, be a child of the living God! Nothing that I do or anyone else does can ever cause me to be 'unborn again'! All I ever have to do when I cause what seems to be a separation, by my choices, is to change my thinking to agree with God (repent). The deeper that we can get this Truth inside of us, the less time satan will ever be able to keep us out of 'fellowship' with the Lord! In His presence and in fellowship with Him is where we find the answers to every question and the solution to every problem! It's no wonder that the enemy tries to get us to believe the opposite! The very best thing that you and Kristine can instill in your beautiful little ladies, beside the Truth that they can do anything they set their hearts to, is that no one can ever take them out of God's hands and His heart! There is no greater LOVE and no greater freedom than this! Here is a new song by Hillsong Young and Free called "More of You":

Love and Shalom from the Swoveys!

Hi Brian!

The word for this week is "beckoning". It's found in these two verses:

Acts 12:17 But he, beckoning unto them with the hand to hold their peace, declared unto them how the Lord had brought him out of the prison. And he said, Go shew these things unto James, and to the brethren. And he departed, and went into another place. KJV

Acts 13:15 And after the reading of the law and the prophets the rulers of the synagogue sent unto them, saying, Ye men and brethren, if ye have any word of exhortation for the people, say on. 16 Then Paul stood up, and beckoning with his hand said, Men of Israel, and ye that fear God, give audience. KJV

This is the Greek word "kataseio". Strong's Concordance says: to sway downward; to make a signal. Vine's Expository Dictionary says: shaking the hand, expresses more vigorously the act of 'beckoning' (as compared to the Greek word 'neuo', which refers to a nod of the head). The dictionary definition of 'beckon' is to signal, summon or direct by a gesture of the hand or head. Though these verses speak of Peter and Paul gesturing to the people, it brings to mind a scene at the end of The Visual Bible: Matthew where Bruce Marchiano, as JESUS, is 'beckoning' with his hand to "Come,follow me"! I LOVE that DVD and that scene! There is such joy in his face and his invitation that I am confident is exactly how JESUS Himself would be. I think of this whenever I am tempted to get down on myself for something. I know that as much as I want to know Him, HE wants fellowship with me even more! His love for me is deeper than mine for Him! HE so loved each of us that He chose the cross to buy us back to Himself. There is a song on the new Hillsong Young and Free album "3" called "Let Go" that speaks of His "unrelenting chase" for us. 

VERSE 1

I close my eyes and colours fly

There’s no hiding from Your grace

I can’t deny Your heart for mine

And its unrelenting chase

PRE-CHORUS 1

I was on the edge of deception

Caught up in my own hesitation

Until Your love took over me

CHORUS

So I let go and I let love

Show me life like it’s supposed to be

An oasis here awaits us

All the freedom I’ll ever need

TAG

Now I’m alive

Oh la la Oh la la

When I let go then I find life

Oh la la Oh la la

La la la la la

VERSE 2

The higher way is calling me

To a life unlike before

The Father’s heart is beckoning

And I can resist no more

PRE-CHORUS 2

Lead me in the ways of devotion

I don’t want to get caught in the motions

My heart is only for You Lord

Love and Shalom from the Swoveys!

Hi Brian!

The word for this week is "eloquent". It's found in only one place in the New Testament. Acts 18:24:

24 And a certain Jew named Apollos, born at Alexandria, an eloquent man, and mighty in the scriptures, came to Ephesus. KJV

This is the Greek word "logios". Strong's Concordance says: fluent, i.e. an orator. Thayer's Greek Lexicon says: learned, a man of letters, skilled in speech. Vine's Expository Dictionary says: from 'logos: a word'. primarily meant a man skilled in literature. Much more frequently used among the Greeks of one who was erudite (having and displaying great knowledge) than one who was skilled in words. I really like the distinction that Vine's makes between the usual idea of one who 'has a way with words' and one who actually has a great knowledge of the Word. Which is much more important! Even in natural things I would rather speak to someone who has a 'working knowledge' of something I'm asking about than someone who just knows how to present it well. Verses 25-26 go on to say:

25 This man was instructed in the way of the Lord; and being fervent in the spirit, he spake and taught diligently the things of the Lord, knowing only the baptism of John. 26 And he began to speak boldly in the synagogue: whom when Aquila and Priscilla had heard, they took him unto them, and expounded unto him the way of God more perfectly. KJV

Apollos REALLY knew the Word that he knew, he just needed to know more of it. My desire is to do both! To know what I know so well that I can teach it to someone else, and to never stop learning more! That attitude where the Word of God is concerned will affect every area of life. That same attitude is necessary to excel in anything that we do! You did not excel in and reach the levels of promotion in your career that you have by simply knowing how to speak well. You had to know your stuff, and you have to keep learning more. God honors that attitude! Here is Hillsong with "To Know Your More":

Love and Shalom from the Swoveys!

Hi Brian!

The word for this week is "fame". We'll be looking at these verses:

Matthew 4:23 And Jesus went about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing all manner of sickness and all manner of disease among the people. 24 And his fame went throughout all Syria: and they brought unto him all sick people that were taken with divers diseases and torments, and those which were possessed with devils, and those which were lunatick, and those that had the palsy; and he healed them. KJV

Matthew 14:1 At that time Herod the tetrarch heard of the fame of Jesus, KJV

Mark 1:27 And they were all amazed, insomuch that they questioned among themselves, saying, What thing is this? what new doctrine is this? for with authority commandeth he even the unclean spirits, and they do obey him.28 And immediately his fame spread abroad throughout all the region round about Galilee. KJV

These are all from the Greek word "akoe". Strong's Concordance says: hearing (the act, the sense or the thing heard). Thayer's Greek Lexicon adds this: a thing heard, instruction (namely oral: the preaching of the Gospel), report, hearsay, rumor. Jesus never did anything FOR fame! He simply did what the Father desired as He (JESUS) was led by the Spirit. Fame came to JESUS as people were healed and set free during His ministry on earth! That IS the purpose for our giving testimonies of all of His "wondrous works"! When we brag on JESUS, the fame and attention goes to Him and people are drawn to Him. That IS our job here on earth, after all! But even more than our words, our lives reflect Him. When your diligence, faithfulness and hard work in your career results in success for your company, Jesus is glorified. When your love for your family is on display, Jesus is glorified! When your children’s unique personalities are allowed to shine through, Jesus is glorified! HE gets His fame THROUGH us, and it is as much by what people see in us as by what we say! I believe that you and Kristine and your beautiful daughters are continually making Jesus FAMOUS! Here is Hillsong Worship with another new song that mentions His fame. It’s called "Lettered Love":

Love and Shalom from the Swoveys!

Hi Brian!

The word for this week is "vessel". We see it used in these verses: 

Acts 9:15 But the Lord said unto him, Go thy way: for he is a chosen vessel unto me, to bear my name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel: 16 For I will shew him how great things he must suffer for my name's sake. KJV

2 Timothy 2:21 If a man therefore purge himself from these, he shall be a vessel unto honour, sanctified, and meet for the master's use, and prepared unto every good work. KJV

2 Corinthians 4:6 For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ. 7 But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us. KJV

These are all the Greek word "skeuos". Strong's Concordance says: a vessel, implement, equipment or apparatus. When JESUS breathed on His disciples in John 20:21-22, they became 'vessels' that carried the Spirit of God within them! 

John 20:21 Then Jesus said to them again, Peace to you! [Just] as the Father has sent Me forth, so I am sending you. 22 And having said this, He breathed on them and said to them, Receive the Holy Spirit! AMP

THIS is the "treasure" that we carry inside of our "earthen vessels"! When we were "endued with power from on high" (Luke 24:49 and Acts 1:8), we allowed the Spirit of God to have even more access to us, becoming better and more powerful "vessels"! As we consistently release our will to conform to His, we become those vessels of honor that show forth HIS glory and draw people to Him! From the time I was born again I have heard sermons on going about 'witnessing' to get people born again. What we are REALLY supposed to do is to be so filled with His presence in these earthen vessels that HE shines forth in everything that we do. Your life, your success, your love for your family and others, your care of other people, even sometimes just your presence, is where people see the JESUS that they need! You LIVE the Word so well! I believe that God has some powerful things planned for you and Kristine and your beautiful girls in this coming year that will be beyond your best dreams! I'm praying for that! In the meantime, here is a new song from Hillsong called "New Wine" that serves as a commitment of our "vessels" for the Master's use! 

Love and Shalom from the Swoveys!

Hi Brian!

The word for this week is "rudiments". It's found in two places in Colossians 2. Verses 8 and 20:

8 Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ.

20 Wherefore if ye be dead with Christ from the rudiments of the world, why, as though living in the world, are ye subject to ordinances, 21 (Touch not; taste not; handle not; 22 Which all are to perish with the using;) after the commandments and doctrines of men?

This is the Greek word "stoicheion". Strong's Concordance says: something orderly in arrangement, a serial (fundamental, basal, initial) constituent. Thayer's Greek Lexicon says: the elements, rudiments, primary and fundamental principles. The Theological Dictionary of the New Testament says that the word used in Colossians means: religious ordinances, which are inadequate as a basis for human existence. They also add this: "It is delusional for Christians to think that such things can sustain them. By dying and rising again with Christ they are free from this delusion and the bondage it entails." Religion has always been used as a way to control people or to bring them under subjection to the ideas of man instead of the Truths of God's Word. It takes diligence and commitment to dig into the Word the way that you do, rather than just follow some code or doctrine, but the rewards of that diligence is freedom and the real power that comes from the One Who lives inside of you! Paul said, in Philippians 3:10 (AMP) that as we get to know JESUS, we will also know the power that is available to us through Him! I really like The Passion Translation of these verses from Colossians:

8 Beware that no one distracts you or intimidates you in their attempt to lead you away from Christ’s fullness by pretending to be full of wisdom when they’re filled with endless arguments of human logic. For they operate with humanistic and clouded judgments based on the mindset of this world system, and not the anointed truths of the Anointed One.

20 For you were included in the death of Christ and have died with him to the religious system and powers of this world. Don’t retreat back to being bullied by the standards and opinions of religion— 21 for example, their strict requirements, “You can’t associate with that person!” or, “Don’t eat that!” or, “You can’t touch that!” 22 These are the doctrines of men and corrupt customs that are worthless to help you spiritually. 23 For though they may appear to possess the promise of wisdom in their submission to God through the deprivation of their physical bodies, it is actually nothing more than empty rules rooted in religious rituals

I am so glad that you and Kristine found a church that teaches the Word of God! I am excited to see what He is going to continue to do for and through you and your family! Here is another new song from Hillsong's "There Is More" album called "Touch of Heaven":

Love and Shalom from the Swoveys!