“I tell you I will not drink again of this fruit of the vine until that day when I drink it new with you in my Father’s kingdom.” Matthew 26:29 ESV
Verse 29 of Matthew 26 “came alive” during my communion this morning.
26 Now as they were eating, Jesus took bread, and after blessing it broke it and gave it to the disciples, and said, “Take, eat; this is my body.” 27 And he took a cup, and when he had given thanks he gave it to them, saying, “Drink of it, all of you,28 for this is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins.29 I tell you I will not drink again of this fruit of the vine until that day when I drink it new with you in my Father’s kingdom.” Matthew 26:26-29 ESV
It is hard to put into words, but I had a surge of joy and a strong impression the first communion with Jesus will happen very soon!
Mind above! Try to imagine the first communion with Jesus Himself, being able to thank Him face to face!
If then you were raised with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ is, sitting at the right hand of God. 2 Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth. 3 For you died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. 4 When Christ who is our life appears, then you also will appear with Him in glory. Colossians 3:1-4 NKJV
Jesus is coming very, very soon. Be ready!
4 But you, brethren, are not in darkness, so that this Day should overtake you as a thief. 5 You are all sons of light and sons of the day. We are not of the night nor of darkness. 6 Therefore let us not sleep, as others do, but let us watch and be sober. 1 Thessalonians 5:4-6 NKJV
32 “Now learnthis parable from the fig tree: When its branch has already become tender and puts forth leaves, you know that summer is near.33 So you also, when you see all these things, knowthatit is near—at the doors!34 Assuredly, I say to you,this generation will by no means pass away till all these things take place.35 Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will by no means pass away.” Matthew 24:32-35 NKJV
34 “Buttake heed to yourselves, lest your hearts be weighed down withcarousing, drunkenness, andcares of this life, and that Day come on you unexpectedly.35 For it will come as a snare on all those who dwell on the face of the whole earth. 36 Watch therefore, andpray always that you maybe countedworthy to escape all these things that will come to pass, andto stand before the Son of Man.” Luke 21:34-36 NKJV
Your lamb must be an unblemished year-old male, and you may take it from the sheep or the goats. Exodus 12:5 BSB
The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him and said, “Look! The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!” John 1:29 NLT
He did not enter by means of the blood of goats and calves; but he entered the Most Holy Place once for all by his own blood, thus obtaining eternal redemption. Hebrews 9:12 NIV
18 For you know that God paid a ransom to save you from the empty life you inherited from your ancestors. And it was not paid with mere gold or silver, which lose their value. 19 It was the precious blood of Christ, the sinless, spotless Lamb of God. 20 God chose him as your ransom long before the world began, but now in these last days he has been revealed for your sake.
21 Through Christ you have come to trust in God. And you have placed your faith and hope in God because he raised Christ from the dead and gave him great glory. 1 Peter 1:18-21 NLT
In my recent taking of communion daily, I have been thinking about how Jesus took my punishment completely – which is something I could never do. First, I am not sinless and spotless apart from Jesus. My suffering in hell and later in the lake of fire could not pay the complete price for my sins. Second, evil thoughts are sin and no doubt I would continue to pile up sins of thoughts of blasphemy. My sin debt would continue to grow for all eternity!
The thoughts of the wicked are an abomination to the LORD, but gracious words are pure. Proverbs 15:26 ESV
27 “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall not commit adultery.’28 But I say to you that everyone who looks at a woman with lustful intent has already committed adultery with her in his heart.” Matthew 5:27-28 ESV
Jesus said this about completing the punishment for my sins; I never could. Jesus did for me what I could not do for myself!
28 After this, Jesus, knowing that all was now finished, said (to fulfill the Scripture), “I thirst.”29 A jar full of sour wine stood there, so they put a sponge full of the sour wine on a hyssop branch and held it to his mouth. 30 When Jesus had received the sour wine, he said, “It is finished,” and he bowed his head and gave up his spirit. John 19:28-30 ESV
Jesus died in my place because He wanted to redeem me. He was focused on His future joy of filling heaven with people who accepted His gift of eternal life. Eyes and hearts on Him!
Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us,2 looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God. Hebrews 12:1-2 ESV
I am greatly blessed by daily communion, and I recommend the practice to all believers in Jesus. If you are uncertain about taking communion all by yourself or with a few family and friends, please read this post: Have Communion All By Yourself
Jesus is coming very, very soon. Be ready!
4 But you, brethren, are not in darkness, so that this Day should overtake you as a thief. 5 You are all sons of light and sons of the day. We are not of the night nor of darkness. 6 Therefore let us not sleep, as others do, but let us watch and be sober. 1 Thessalonians 5:4-6 NKJV
32 “Now learnthis parable from the fig tree: When its branch has already become tender and puts forth leaves, you know that summer is near.33 So you also, when you see all these things, knowthatit is near—at the doors!34 Assuredly, I say to you,this generation will by no means pass away till all these things take place.35 Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will by no means pass away.” Matthew 24:32-35 NKJV
34 “Buttake heed to yourselves, lest your hearts be weighed down withcarousing, drunkenness, andcares of this life, and that Day come on you unexpectedly.35 For it will come as a snare on all those who dwell on the face of the whole earth. 36 Watch therefore, andpray always that you maybe countedworthy to escape all these things that will come to pass, andto stand before the Son of Man.” Luke 21:34-36 NKJV
14 “I am the good shepherd. I know my own and my own know me,15 just as the Father knows me and I know the Father; and I lay down my life for the sheep.16 And I have other sheep that are not of this fold. I must bring them also, and they will listen to my voice. So there will be one flock, one shepherd.17 For this reason the Father loves me, because I lay down my life that I may take it up again.18 No one takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord. I have authority to lay it down, and I have authority to take it up again. This charge I have received from my Father.” John 10:14-18 ESV
I have communion every day when I get up. Though this is a habit, I try hard to make sure it is not just a habit. Some days I need to “press in” to make sure I am communing with God, not just doing some ritual. For example, this morning I spent some extra time thinking about and thanking Jesus for the squeaky-clean conscience I have because of His blood.
6 These preparations having thus been made, the priests go regularly into the first section, performing their ritual duties,7 but into the second only the high priest goes, and he but once a year, and not without taking blood, which he offers for himself and for the unintentional sins of the people.8 By this the Holy Spirit indicates that the way into the holy places is not yet opened as long as the first section is still standing9 (which is symbolic for the present age). According to this arrangement, gifts and sacrifices are offered that cannot perfect the conscience of the worshiper, 10 but deal only with food and drink and various washings, regulations for the body imposed until the time of reformation.
11 But when Christ appeared as a high priest of the good things that have come, then through the greater and more perfect tent (not made with hands, that is, not of this creation)12 he entered once for all into the holy places, not by means of the blood of goats and calves but by means of his own blood, thus securing an eternal redemption. 13 For if the blood of goats and bulls, and the sprinkling of defiled persons with the ashes of a heifer, sanctify for the purification of the flesh, 14 how much more will the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without blemish to God, purify our conscience from dead works to serve the living God. Hebrews 9:6-14 ESV
(Not that my conscience always feels squeaky-clean, mind you, but I’m letting the Word renew my mind.)
I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. 2 Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect. Romans 12:1-2 ESV
If you are not sure it is alright to have communion all by yourself, please read this post.
I highly recommend the practice of daily communion. Whenever it seems to become rote, or a ritual, I take the opportunity to meditate on something specific Jesus did for me. It’s a blessing! 😊 💕
Jesus is coming very, very soon. Be ready!
4 But you, brethren, are not in darkness, so that this Day should overtake you as a thief. 5 You are all sons of light and sons of the day. We are not of the night nor of darkness. 6 Therefore let us not sleep, as others do, but let us watch and be sober. 1 Thessalonians 5:4-6 NKJV
32 “Now learnthis parable from the fig tree: When its branch has already become tender and puts forth leaves, you know that summer is near.33 So you also, when you see all these things, knowthatit is near—at the doors!34 Assuredly, I say to you,this generation will by no means pass away till all these things take place.35 Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will by no means pass away.” Matthew 24:32-35 NKJV
34 “Buttake heed to yourselves, lest your hearts be weighed down withcarousing, drunkenness, andcares of this life, and that Day come on you unexpectedly.35 For it will come as a snare on all those who dwell on the face of the whole earth. 36 Watch therefore, andpray always that you maybe countedworthy to escape all these things that will come to pass, andto stand before the Son of Man.” Luke 21:34-36 NKJV
And as they were eating, Jesus took bread, blessed and broke it, and gave it to them and said, “Take,eat; this is Mybody.” Mark 14:22 NKJV
During recent daily communion a recurring thought is Jesus laid down His life for me because He wanted to.
17 “Therefore My Fatherloves Me,because I lay down My life that I may take it again.18 No one takes it from Me, but I lay it down of Myself. Ihave power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again.This command I have received from My Father.” John 10:17-18 NKJV
He did it for the joy of saving me.
Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, 2 looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Hebrews 12:1-2 NKJV
Therefore the God of hope is increasing my joy!
Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. Romans 15:13 NKJV
If you are not sure about having communion all by yourself, please read this post.
4 But you, brethren, are not in darkness, so that this Day should overtake you as a thief. 5 You are all sons of light and sons of the day. We are not of the night nor of darkness. 6 Therefore let us not sleep, as others do, but let us watch and be sober. 1 Thessalonians 5:4-6 NKJV
32 “Now learnthis parable from the fig tree: When its branch has already become tender and puts forth leaves, you know that summer is near.33 So you also, when you see all these things, knowthatit is near—at the doors!34 Assuredly, I say to you,this generation will by no means pass away till all these things take place.35 Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will by no means pass away.” Matthew 24:32-35 NKJV
34 “Buttake heed to yourselves, lest your hearts be weighed down withcarousing, drunkenness, andcares of this life, and that Day come on you unexpectedly.35 For it will come as a snare on all those who dwell on the face of the whole earth. 36 Watch therefore, andpray always that you maybe countedworthy to escape all these things that will come to pass, andto stand before the Son of Man.” Luke 21:34-36 NKJV
“Butseek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness,and all these things shall be added to you.” Matthew 6:33 NKJV
We had communion at church last Sunday. It was my second, as I had had communion by myself early in the morning. Communion at church was good, it was fine, but I noticed my personal communion with the Father and Jesus had been more intimate.
It has taken a long time, with stops and restarts, but taking communion daily has become both very special and very normal. I highly recommend it. See this post for applicable Scripture.
Every day I seek His righteousness, on purpose, by having communion.
Jesus is coming very soon. Be ready!
4 But you, brethren, are not in darkness, so that this Day should overtake you as a thief. 5 You are all sons of light and sons of the day. We are not of the night nor of darkness. 6 Therefore let us not sleep, as others do, but let us watch and be sober. 1 Thessalonians 5:4-6 NKJV
32 “Now learnthis parable from the fig tree: When its branch has already become tender and puts forth leaves, you know that summer is near.33 So you also, when you see all these things, knowthatit is near—at the doors!34 Assuredly, I say to you,this generation will by no means pass away till all these things take place.35 Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will by no means pass away.” Matthew 24:32-35 NKJV
34 “Buttake heed to yourselves, lest your hearts be weighed down withcarousing, drunkenness, andcares of this life, and that Day come on you unexpectedly.35 For it will come as a snare on all those who dwell on the face of the whole earth. 36 Watch therefore, andpray always that you maybe countedworthy to escape all these things that will come to pass, andto stand before the Son of Man.” Luke 21:34-36 NKJV
But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; Matthew 6:33 KJV
The Bible speaks of terrible times to come, and I believe they will start very soon.
“And unless those days were shortened, no flesh would be saved;but for theelect’s sake those days will be shortened.” Matthew 24:22 NKJV
Behold, the LORD lays waste the earth and leaves it in ruins. He will twist its surface and scatter its inhabitants— Isaiah 24:1 BSB
Then the second angel poured out his bowl on the sea, and it became blood as of a dead man; and every living creature in the sea died. Revelation 16:3 NKJV
Every day I pray to be counted worthy to escape, to be raptured before the horrible times begin.
“Watch therefore, andpray always that you maybe countedworthy to escape all these things that will come to pass, andto stand before the Son of Man.” Luke 21:36 NKJV
10 “Because you have keptMy command to persevere,I also will keep you from the hour of trial which shall come uponthe whole world, to test those who dwellon the earth.11 Behold,I am coming quickly!Hold fast what you have, that no one may takeyour crown.” Revelation 3:10-11 NKJV
I take communion daily, and I believe it is also a part of getting and keeping me ready to go in the rapture. During communion I think about and thank God for His gift to me of right-standing with Him. My own righteousness is not good enough. I need His righteousness!
30 But it is due to Him that you are in Christ Jesus, who became to us wisdom from God, and righteousness and sanctification, and redemption,31 so that, just as it is written: “Let the one who boasts, boast in the Lord.” 1 Corinthians 1:30-31 NASB
For if, by the trespass of the one man, death reigned through that one man, how much more will those who receive an abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness reign in life through the one man, Jesus Christ! Romans 5:17 BSB
I thank God for a clean conscience to serve Him because of Jesus’ blood.
13 For if the blood of bulls and goats and the ashes of a heifer, sprinkling the unclean, sanctifies for the purifying of the flesh, 14 how much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered Himself without spot to God, cleanse your conscience from dead works to serve the living God? Hebrews 9:13-14 NKJV
I think about how I don’t belong to me anymore, but to Him.
17 And if you call on the Father, who without partiality judges according to each one’s work, conduct yourselves throughout the time of your stay here in fear; 18 knowing that you were not redeemed with corruptible things, like silver or gold, from your aimless conduct received by tradition from your fathers, 19 but with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot. 1 Peter 1:17-19 NKJV
For you were bought at a price; therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God’s. 1 Corinthians 6:20 NKJV
I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service. 2 And do not be 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. Romans 12:1-2 NKJV
My daily communion is precious to me, and I highly recommend all Jesus’ followers take communion often. If you are not sure how to get started, or if you wonder if you are authorized, please see this post. Have Communion All By Yourself
Jesus is coming very soon. Be ready!
4 But you, brethren, are not in darkness, so that this Day should overtake you as a thief. 5 You are all sons of light and sons of the day. We are not of the night nor of darkness. 6 Therefore let us not sleep, as others do, but let us watch and be sober. 1 Thessalonians 5:4-6 NKJV
32 “Now learnthis parable from the fig tree: When its branch has already become tender and puts forth leaves, you know that summer is near.33 So you also, when you see all these things, knowthatit is near—at the doors!34 Assuredly, I say to you,this generation will by no means pass away till all these things take place.35 Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will by no means pass away.” Matthew 24:32-35 NKJV
34 “Buttake heed to yourselves, lest your hearts be weighed down withcarousing, drunkenness, andcares of this life, and that Day come on you unexpectedly.35 For it will come as a snare on all those who dwell on the face of the whole earth. 36 Watch therefore, andpray always that you maybe countedworthy to escape all these things that will come to pass, andto stand before the Son of Man.” Luke 21:34-36 NKJV
In The Sermon on the Mount Jesus promises God’s provision for those seeing first God’s kingdom and His righteousness.
31 “Therefore do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’32 For after all these things the Gentiles seek. For your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things.33 Butseek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.34 Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about its own things. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.” Matthew 6:31-34 NKJV
I’m back in the beneficial habit I had earlier this year. I take communion twice a day, both when I get up and just before I go to bed. It is a wonderful way to remind myself twice a day that my salvation completely depends on Jesus’ righteousness, and not my works and righteousness. My righteousness is like filthy rags.
But we are all like an unclean thing, And all our righteousnesses are like filthy rags; We all fade as a leaf, And our iniquities, like the wind, Have taken us away. Isaiah 64:6 NKJV
God has given me the gift of righteousness because of Jesus. I make my boast in Him!
30 And because of him you are in Christ Jesus, who became to us wisdom from God, righteousness and sanctification and redemption,31 so that, as it is written, “Let the one who boasts, boast in the Lord.” 1 Corinthians 1:30-31 ESV
I will bless the Lord at all times; His praise shall continually be in my mouth. 2 My soul shall make its boast in the Lord; The humble shall hear of it and be glad. 3 Oh, magnify the Lord with me, And let us exalt His name together. Psalms 34:1-3 NKJV
It bothered me a little to take communion by myself when I started doing it. But not anymore. I firmly believe Jesus made me an ordained minister.
9 But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light; 10 who once were not a people but are now the people of God, who had not obtained mercy but now have obtained mercy. 1 Peter 2:9-10 NKJV
Grace to you and peace from Him who is and who was and who is to come, and from the seven Spirits who are before His throne, 5 and from Jesus Christ, the faithful witness, the firstborn from the dead, and the ruler over the kings of the earth.
To Him who loved us and washed us from our sins in His own blood, 6 and has made us kings and priests to His God and Father, to Him be glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen. Revelation 1:4b-6 NKJV
Before taking communion I make sure my heart is right.
27 Therefore whoever eats this bread or drinks this cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be guilty of the body and blood of the Lord. 28 But let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of the bread and drink of the cup. 29 For he who eats and drinks in an unworthy manner eats and drinks judgment to himself, not discerning the Lord’s body. 30 For this reason many are weak and sick among you, and many sleep. 31 For if we would judge ourselves, we would not be judged. 32 But when we are judged, we are chastened by the Lord, that we may not be condemned with the world. 1 Corinthians 11:27-32 NKJV
Then I take communion.
26 And as they were eating, Jesus took bread, blessed and broke it, and gave it to the disciples and said, “Take, eat;this is My body.”
27 Then He took the cup, and gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, “Drink from it, all of you.28 Forthis is My bloodof thenew covenant, which is shedfor many for theremission of sins.29 ButI say to you, I will not drink of this fruit of the vine from now onuntil that day when I drink it new with you in My Father’s kingdom.” Matthew 26:26-29 NKJV
I believe taking communion is one way of seeking first His righteousness. It reminds me my salvation is God’s gift to me, and it really blesses me!
Jesus is coming very soon. Be ready!
4 But you, brethren, are not in darkness, so that this Day should overtake you as a thief. 5 You are all sons of light and sons of the day. We are not of the night nor of darkness. 6 Therefore let us not sleep, as others do, but let us watch and be sober. 1 Thessalonians 5:4-6 NKJV
32 “Now learnthis parable from the fig tree: When its branch has already become tender and puts forth leaves, you know that summer is near.33 So you also, when you see all these things, knowthatit is near—at the doors!34 Assuredly, I say to you,this generation will by no means pass away till all these things take place.35 Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will by no means pass away.” Matthew 24:32-35 NKJV
34 “Buttake heed to yourselves, lest your hearts be weighed down withcarousing, drunkenness, andcares of this life, and that Day come on you unexpectedly.35 For it will come as a snare on all those who dwell on the face of the whole earth. 36 Watch therefore, andpray always that you maybe countedworthy to escape all these things that will come to pass, andto stand before the Son of Man.” Luke 21:34-36 NKJV
My high school band teacher said a lot of good habits are like an overweight person losing 1/16th of a pound a day. Day to day doesn’t seem to make much difference, but when you look back over months and years you can really see the change!
So it is with my habit of having communion regularly, all by myself if necessary. Daily changes over the past year seemed small, yet the total change is profound. Meditating on Jesus’ love for me, that He would allow His body to be broken and His blood to be shed for me, has brought me much understanding and fellowship. There is no way I want to stop the habit!
If you are not having communion regularly, I urge you to start. This post has much applicable Scripture.
4 But you, brethren, are not in darkness, so that this Day should overtake you as a thief. 5 You are all sons of light and sons of the day. We are not of the night nor of darkness. 6 Therefore let us not sleep, as others do, but let us watch and be sober. 1 Thessalonians 5:4-6 NKJV
32 “Now learnthis parable from the fig tree: When its branch has already become tender and puts forth leaves, you know that summer is near.33 So you also, when you see all these things, knowthatit is near—at the doors!34 Assuredly, I say to you,this generation will by no means pass away till all these things take place.35 Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will by no means pass away.” Matthew 24:32-35 NKJV
34 “Buttake heed to yourselves, lest your hearts be weighed down withcarousing, drunkenness, andcares of this life, and that Day come on you unexpectedly.35 For it will come as a snare on all those who dwell on the face of the whole earth. 36 Watch therefore, andpray always that you maybe countedworthy to escape all these things that will come to pass, andto stand before the Son of Man.” Luke 21:34-36 NKJV
I read the book of Hebrews last night, and am adding these Scriptures to my post of December 16, 2020. There is much in Hebrews that gives understanding on the power of Jesus’ blood. I especially like the cleansing of the conscience!
14 Inasmuch then as the children have partaken of flesh and blood, He Himself likewise shared in the same, that through death He might destroy him who had the power of death, that is, the devil,15 and release those who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage. Hebrews 2:14-15 NKJV
14 Seeing then that we have a great High Priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession. 15 For we do not have a High Priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but was in all points tempted as we are,yet without sin. 16 Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need. Hebrews 4:14-16 NKJV
23 Also there were many priests, because they were prevented by death from continuing. 24 But He, because He continues forever, has an unchangeable priesthood. 25Therefore He is also able to save to the uttermost those who come to God through Him, since He always lives to make intercession for them.
26 For such a High Priest was fitting for us, who is holy, harmless, undefiled, separate from sinners, and has become higher than the heavens; 27 who does not need daily, as those high priests, to offer up sacrifices, first for His own sins and then for the people’s, for this He did once for all when He offered up Himself. 28 For the law appoints as high priests men who have weakness, but the word of the oath, which came after the law, appoints the Son who has been perfected forever. Hebrews 7:23-28 NKJV
11 But Christ came as High Priest of the good things to come, with the greater and more perfect tabernacle not made with hands, that is, not of this creation. 12 Not with the blood of goats and calves, but with His own blood He entered the Most Holy Place once for all, having obtained eternal redemption. 13 For if the blood of bulls and goats and the ashes of a heifer, sprinkling the unclean, sanctifies for the purifying of the flesh, 14 how much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered Himself without spot to God, cleanse your conscience from dead works to serve the living God? 15 And for this reason He is the Mediator of the new covenant, by means of death, for the redemption of the transgressions under the first covenant, that those who are called may receive the promise of the eternal inheritance. Hebrews 9:11-15 NKJV
23 Therefore it was necessary that the copies of the things in the heavens should be purified with these, but the heavenly things themselves with better sacrifices than these. 24 For Christ has not entered the holy places made with hands, which are copies of the true, but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God for us; 25 not that He should offer Himself often, as the high priest enters the Most Holy Place every year with blood of another— 26 He then would have had to suffer often since the foundation of the world; but now, once at the end of the ages, He has appeared to put away sin by the sacrifice of Himself.27 And as it is appointed for men to die once, but after this the judgment, 28 so Christ was offered once to bear the sins of many. To those who eagerly wait for Him He will appear a second time, apart from sin, for salvation. Hebrews 9:23-28 NKJV
8 Previously saying, “Sacrifice and offering, burnt offerings, andofferingsfor sin You did not desire, nor had pleasurein them” (which are offered according to the law), 9 then He said, “Behold, I have come to do Your will,O God.” He takes away the first that He may establish the second. 10 By that will we have been sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.
11 And every priest stands ministering daily and offering repeatedly the same sacrifices, which can never take away sins. 12 But this Man, after He had offered one sacrifice for sins forever, sat down at the right hand of God, 13 from that time waiting till His enemies are made His footstool. 14 For by one offering He has perfected forever those who are being sanctified. Hebrews 10:8-14 NKJV
19 Therefore, brethren, having boldness to enter the Holiest by the blood of Jesus, 20 by a new and living way which He consecrated for us, through the veil, that is, His flesh, 21 and having a 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. 23 Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful. 24 And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, 25 not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching. Hebrews 10:19-25 NKJV
That we are not saved by works but must have works is difficult to understand and live by.
8 For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, 9 not of works, lest anyone should boast. 10 For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them. Ephesians 2:8-10 NKJV
And if by grace, then it is no longer of works; otherwise grace is no longer grace. But if it is of works, it is no longer grace; otherwise work is no longer work. Romans 11:6 NKJV
For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also. James 2:26 NKJV
One thing that really helps me is my habit of taking communion daily. I begin by making sure I have repented.
27 Therefore whoever eats this bread or drinks this cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be guilty of the body and blood of the Lord. 28 But let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of the bread and drink of the cup. 29 For he who eats and drinks in an unworthy manner eats and drinks judgment to himself, not discerning the Lord’s body. 30 For this reason many are weak and sick among you, and many sleep. 31 For if we would judge ourselves, we would not be judged. 32 But when we are judged, we are chastened by the Lord, that we may not be condemned with the world. 1 Corinthians 11:27-32 NKJV
8 If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. 9 If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.10 If we say that we have not sinned, we make Him a liar, and His word is not in us. 1 John 1:8-10 NKJV
I think about Jesus’ body and blood being true food and true drink.
53 Then Jesus said to them, “Most assuredly, I say to you, unlessyou eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink His blood, you have no life in you.54 Whoever eats My flesh and drinks My blood has eternal life, and I will raise him up at the last day. 55For My flesh isfood indeed, and My blood isdrink indeed.56 He who eats My flesh and drinks My bloodabides in Me, and I in him.57 As the living Father sent Me, and I live because of the Father, so he who feeds on Me will live because of Me.58 This is the bread which came down from heaven—notas your fathers ate the manna, and are dead. He who eats this bread will live forever.” John 6:53-58 NKJV
I think about how my salvation depends on what Jesus did for me. I am not saved by my works, but by His. Slowly, I am learning more about His love for me.
For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. John 3:16 KJV
6 For when we were still without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly. 7 For scarcely for a righteous man will one die; yet perhaps for a good man someone would even dare to die. 8 But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. 9 Much more then, having now been justified by His blood, we shall be saved from wrath through Him. 10 For if when we were enemies we were reconciled to God through the death of His Son, much more, having been reconciled, we shall be saved by His life. 11 And not only that, but we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received the reconciliation. Romans 5:6-11 NKJV
These are Jesus’ words at the first communion.
26 And as they were eating, Jesus took bread, blessed and broke it, and gave it to the disciples and said, “Take, eat;this is My body.”
27 Then He took the cup, and gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, “Drink from it, all of you.28 Forthis is My blood of thenew covenant, which is shedfor many for theremission of sins.29 ButI say to you, I will not drink of this fruit of the vine from now onuntil that day when I drink it new with you in My Father’s kingdom.” Matthew 26:26-29 NKJV
22 And as they were eating, Jesus took bread, blessed and broke it, and gave it to them and said, “Take,eat; this is My body.”
23 Then He took the cup, and when He had given thanks He gave it to them, and they all drank from it. 24 And He said to them, “This is My blood of thenew covenant, which is shed for many.25 Assuredly, I say to you, I will no longer drink of the fruit of the vine until that day when I drink it new in the kingdom of God.” Mark 14:22-25 NKJV
14 When the hour had come, He sat down, and the twelve apostles with Him. 15 Then He said to them, “With fervent desire I have desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer;16 for I say to you, I will no longer eat of ituntil it is fulfilled in the kingdom of God.”
17 Then He took the cup, and gave thanks, and said, “Take this and divide it among yourselves;18 forI say to you,I will not drink of the fruit of the vine until the kingdom of God comes.”
19 And He took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to them, saying, “This is Mybody which is given for you;do this in remembrance of Me.”
20 Likewise He also took the cup after supper, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in My blood, which is shed for you.21 But behold, the hand of My betrayer is with Me on the table.22 And truly the Son of Man goesas it has been determined, but woe to that man by whom He is betrayed!” Luke 22:14-22 NKJV
Paul received this by revelation.
23 For I received from the Lord that which I also delivered to you: that the Lord Jesus on the same night in which He was betrayed took bread; 24 and when He had given thanks, He broke it and said, “Take, eat; this is My body which isbroken for you; do this in remembrance of Me.”25 In the same manner He also took the cup after supper, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in My blood. This do, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of Me.”
26 For as often as you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death till He comes. 1 Corinthians 11:23-26 NKJV
Yes, believers are qualified to give communion.
9 But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light; 10 who once were not a people but are now the people of God, who had not obtained mercy but now have obtained mercy. 1 Peter 2:9-10 NKJV
Grace to you and peace from Him who is and who was and who is to come, and from the seven Spirits who are before His throne, 5 and from Jesus Christ, the faithful witness, the firstborn from the dead, and the ruler over the kings of the earth.
To Him who loved us and washed us from our sins in His own blood, 6 and has made us kings and priests to His God and Father, to Him be glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen. Revelation 1:4b-6 NKJV
My daily communion is not a ritual, but it’s a growing relationship. I am being rooted and grounded in His love for me.
14 For this reason I bow my knees to the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, 15 from whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named, 16 that He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with might through His Spirit in the inner man, 17 that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith; that you, being rooted and grounded in love, 18 may be able to comprehend with all the saints what is the width and length and depth and height— 19 to know the love of Christ which passes knowledge; that you may be filled with all the fullness of God. Ephesians 3:14-19 NKJV
17 Love has been perfected among us in this: that we may have boldness in the day of judgment; because as He is, so are we in this world. 18 There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear, because fear involves torment. But he who fears has not been made perfect in love. 19 We love Him because He first loved us. 1 John 4:17-19 NKJV
Jesus is coming very soon. Be ready!
4 But you, brethren, are not in darkness, so that this Day should overtake you as a thief. 5 You are all sons of light and sons of the day. We are not of the night nor of darkness. 6 Therefore let us not sleep, as others do, but let us watch and be sober. 1 Thessalonians 5:4-6 NKJV
32 “Now learnthis parable from the fig tree: When its branch has already become tender and puts forth leaves, you know that summer is near.33 So you also, when you see all these things, knowthatit is near—at the doors!34 Assuredly, I say to you,this generation will by no means pass away till all these things take place.35 Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will by no means pass away.” Matthew 24:32-35 NKJV
34 “Buttake heed to yourselves, lest your hearts be weighed down withcarousing, drunkenness, andcares of this life, and that Day come on you unexpectedly.35 For it will come as a snare on all those who dwell on the face of the whole earth. 36 Watch therefore, andpray always that you maybe countedworthy to escape all these things that will come to pass, andto stand before the Son of Man.” Luke 21:34-36 NKJV
That we are not saved by works but must have works is difficult to understand and live by.
8 For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, 9 not of works, lest anyone should boast. 10 For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them. Ephesians 2:8-10 NKJV
And if by grace, then it is no longer of works; otherwise grace is no longer grace. But if it is of works, it is no longer grace; otherwise work is no longer work. Romans 11:6 NKJV
For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also. James 2:26 NKJV
One thing that really helps me is my habit of taking communion daily. I begin by making sure I have repented.
27 Therefore whoever eats this bread or drinks this cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be guilty of the body and blood of the Lord. 28 But let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of the bread and drink of the cup. 29 For he who eats and drinks in an unworthy manner eats and drinks judgment to himself, not discerning the Lord’s body. 30 For this reason many are weak and sick among you, and many sleep. 31 For if we would judge ourselves, we would not be judged. 32 But when we are judged, we are chastened by the Lord, that we may not be condemned with the world. 1 Corinthians 11:27-32 NKJV
8 If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. 9 If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.10 If we say that we have not sinned, we make Him a liar, and His word is not in us. 1 John 1:8-10 NKJV
I think about Jesus’ body and blood being true food and true drink.
53 Then Jesus said to them, “Most assuredly, I say to you, unlessyou eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink His blood, you have no life in you.54 Whoever eats My flesh and drinks My blood has eternal life, and I will raise him up at the last day. 55For My flesh isfood indeed, and My blood isdrink indeed.56 He who eats My flesh and drinks My bloodabides in Me, and I in him.57 As the living Father sent Me, and I live because of the Father, so he who feeds on Me will live because of Me.58 This is the bread which came down from heaven—notas your fathers ate the manna, and are dead. He who eats this bread will live forever.” John 6:53-58 NKJV
I think about how my salvation depends on what Jesus did for me. I am not saved by my works, but by His. Slowly, I am learning more about His love for me.
For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. John 3:16 KJV
6 For when we were still without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly. 7 For scarcely for a righteous man will one die; yet perhaps for a good man someone would even dare to die. 8 But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. 9 Much more then, having now been justified by His blood, we shall be saved from wrath through Him. 10 For if when we were enemies we were reconciled to God through the death of His Son, much more, having been reconciled, we shall be saved by His life. 11 And not only that, but we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received the reconciliation. Romans 5:6-11 NKJV
These are Jesus’ words at the first communion.
26 And as they were eating, Jesus took bread, blessed and broke it, and gave it to the disciples and said, “Take, eat;this is My body.”
27 Then He took the cup, and gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, “Drink from it, all of you.28 Forthis is My blood of thenew covenant, which is shedfor many for theremission of sins.29 ButI say to you, I will not drink of this fruit of the vine from now onuntil that day when I drink it new with you in My Father’s kingdom.” Matthew 26:26-29 NKJV
22 And as they were eating, Jesus took bread, blessed and broke it, and gave it to them and said, “Take,eat; this is My body.”
23 Then He took the cup, and when He had given thanks He gave it to them, and they all drank from it. 24 And He said to them, “This is My blood of thenew covenant, which is shed for many.25 Assuredly, I say to you, I will no longer drink of the fruit of the vine until that day when I drink it new in the kingdom of God.” Mark 14:22-25 NKJV
14 When the hour had come, He sat down, and the twelve apostles with Him. 15 Then He said to them, “With fervent desire I have desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer;16 for I say to you, I will no longer eat of ituntil it is fulfilled in the kingdom of God.”
17 Then He took the cup, and gave thanks, and said, “Take this and divide it among yourselves;18 forI say to you,I will not drink of the fruit of the vine until the kingdom of God comes.”
19 And He took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to them, saying, “This is Mybody which is given for you;do this in remembrance of Me.”
20 Likewise He also took the cup after supper, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in My blood, which is shed for you.21 But behold, the hand of My betrayer is with Me on the table.22 And truly the Son of Man goesas it has been determined, but woe to that man by whom He is betrayed!” Luke 22:14-22 NKJV
Paul received this by revelation.
23 For I received from the Lord that which I also delivered to you: that the Lord Jesus on the same night in which He was betrayed took bread; 24 and when He had given thanks, He broke it and said, “Take, eat; this is My body which isbroken for you; do this in remembrance of Me.”25 In the same manner He also took the cup after supper, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in My blood. This do, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of Me.”
26 For as often as you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death till He comes. 1 Corinthians 11:23-26 NKJV
Yes, believers are qualified to give communion.
9 But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light; 10 who once were not a people but are now the people of God, who had not obtained mercy but now have obtained mercy. 1 Peter 2:9-10 NKJV
Grace to you and peace from Him who is and who was and who is to come, and from the seven Spirits who are before His throne, 5 and from Jesus Christ, the faithful witness, the firstborn from the dead, and the ruler over the kings of the earth.
To Him who loved us and washed us from our sins in His own blood, 6 and has made us kings and priests to His God and Father, to Him be glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen. Revelation 1:4b-6 NKJV
My daily communion is not a ritual, but it’s a growing relationship. I am being rooted and grounded in His love for me.
14 For this reason I bow my knees to the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, 15 from whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named, 16 that He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with might through His Spirit in the inner man, 17 that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith; that you, being rooted and grounded in love, 18 may be able to comprehend with all the saints what is the width and length and depth and height— 19 to know the love of Christ which passes knowledge; that you may be filled with all the fullness of God. Ephesians 3:14-19 NKJV
17 Love has been perfected among us in this: that we may have boldness in the day of judgment; because as He is, so are we in this world. 18 There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear, because fear involves torment. But he who fears has not been made perfect in love. 19 We love Him because He first loved us. 1 John 4:17-19 NKJV
Jesus is coming very soon. Be ready!
4 But you, brethren, are not in darkness, so that this Day should overtake you as a thief. 5 You are all sons of light and sons of the day. We are not of the night nor of darkness. 6 Therefore let us not sleep, as others do, but let us watch and be sober. 1 Thessalonians 5:4-6 NKJV
32 “Now learnthis parable from the fig tree: When its branch has already become tender and puts forth leaves, you know that summer is near.33 So you also, when you see all these things, knowthatit is near—at the doors!34 Assuredly, I say to you,this generation will by no means pass away till all these things take place.35 Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will by no means pass away.” Matthew 24:32-35 NKJV
34 “Buttake heed to yourselves, lest your hearts be weighed down withcarousing, drunkenness, andcares of this life, and that Day come on you unexpectedly.35 For it will come as a snare on all those who dwell on the face of the whole earth. 36 Watch therefore, andpray always that you maybe countedworthy to escape all these things that will come to pass, andto stand before the Son of Man.” Luke 21:34-36 NKJV
Lift Up Your Eyes! 