The Great Commission

Matthew 10:5-8  

"These twelve Jesus sent forth, and commanded them, saying, Go not 

into the way of the Gentiles, and into any city of the Samaritans 

enter ye not: But go rather to the lost sheep of the house of 

Israel.  And as ye go, preach, saying, The kingdom of 

heaven is at hand.  Heal the sick, cleanse the 

lepers, raise the dead, cast out devils: 

freely ye have received, freely give."   

    The Twelve Apostles were commission and given special instructions, that they were to focus their ministry on the "Jews."  What was said to these disciples here are not assumed applicable to those who are commissioned by The Lord at other times.  For instance, in Luke 22:36, the Lord sent His disciples on an extended mission to the Gentiles and gave them instructions that were directly 0pposite for the ones here in Matt. chap 10. This was The Great Commission, that sent the Disciples "into the world," given just before our Lord's ascension, and only certain of the general principles of the ministry that were given to Christ' disciples can be applied to the commissioning of believers of today.

   For instance, the gifts of healing and raising the dead (v. 8) were only given to some, 1 Cor. 12:28-29 not to all.    

   "So we, being many, are one body in Christ, and every one members one of another.  Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, whether prophecy, let us prophesy according to the proportion of faith;  Or ministry, let us wait on our ministering: or he that teacheth, on teaching; Or he that exhorteth, on exhortation: he that giveth, let him do it with simplicity; he that ruleth, with diligence; he that sheweth mercy, with cheerfulness," (Rom. 12:5-8). 

   This is not a complete list of the gifts of the Holy Spirit. These were specifically mentioned because they constituted a portion of questions in the Corinthians letter to Paul.  Paul revived a letter from the household of Chloe concerning the bad conduct of some of the church members.  Many had been converted from paganism to Christianity, and were having a hard time breaking their old habits of their former lifestyles. There were divisions among them, some were bringing lawsuits against each other and allowing unbelieving

judges to settle the disputes. 

   My Friends, What Paul is telling the Corinthians and all Believers is this "The Grace Of God is Given unto Those in Jesus Christ,"  so that the believer would not be lacking in any spiritual gift.  Since every Christian has been given the Holy Spirit, he has potential to demonstrate the particular gift which has been given to him. You Must Believe To Receive!!

Amen!!

Reading:  Matt. 10:1-42

                   1 Cor. 12:28-30

                  Rom. 12:1-8 

May God Bless You

And Your Family

Minister Robert A. Lail Sr.

The Cross Life Ministry

  

Christ Calms A Storm

 Isaiah 26:3-4.   

"Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed 

on thee: because he trusteth in thee. Trust ye in the 

LORD for ever: for in the LORD JEHOVAH 

is everlasting strength:"

    It is a comfort to those who travel by sea in ships, and are sometimes in danger, to reflect that they have a Savior to trust in and pray to. Who knows what it is to be on the water, and to be in storms.  All who are passing with Christ over the ocean of this world, must expect storms. 
    Christ' human nature, was like ours in every way "but sin."  He was wearied, and slept at this time to "try the faith of His disciples"  They, in their fear, came to their Master. It is the same in our soul; when lusts and temptations are swelling and raging, and we run to God. Will God be asleep to your call, if so this brings things to the brink of despair. Then you cry for a word from His mouth, Lord Jesus, Be not silent to me, or I am undone. Many that have true faith, are weak in it. Just as Christ disciples were during that raging storm on that ship.

    Christ' disciples are apt to be disquieted with fears in a stormy day; to torment themselves that things are bad with them, and with dismal thoughts that they will be worse. Great storms of doubt and fear in the soul, under the power of the spirit of bondage, sometimes end in a wonderful calm, created and spoken by the Spirit of adoption. They were astonished!      

    My Friends, They never saw and we never will see a storm such as this, turned at once into a perfect calm. He that can do this, can do anything which encourages confidence and comfort in Him during the most dangerous stormy day. 

Amen!

Reading: Matt. 8:23-27

Ref: HGSB

May God Bless You 

Ans Your Family

Minister Robert A. Lail Sr.

The Cross Life Ministry

.

Believe And Receive

 Matthew 8:13  

"And Jesus said unto the centurion, Go thy way; and 

as thou hast believed, so be it done unto thee.

And his servant was healed 

in the selfsame hour." 

  This centurion was a heathen, a Roman soldier. Though he was a soldier, yet he was a godly man. No man's calling or place will be an excuse for unbelief and sin. "See how he states his servant's case" (Matt. 8:5-10). We should concern ourselves for the souls of our children and others, who are spiritually sick, and don't feel the spiritual evils, and don't know that which is spiritually good; and we should bring them to Christ by faith and prayers. Humble souls are made more humble by Christ's gracious dealings with them.  

  Observe his faith. The more defiant we are of ourselves, the stronger our confidence in Christ. We all should serve God in that manner; we must go and come, according to the directions of His word. But when the Son of man comes and He finds little faith, He will also find little fruit.  Now outward profession may cause us to be called children of the kingdom; but if we rest in that, and have nothing else to show, we shall be cast out. 

  My Friends, The servant got a cure of his disease, and the master got the approval of his faith. What was said to him, is said to all, Believe, and ye shall receive; only believe. See the power of Christ, and the power of faith. The healing of our souls is at once the effect and evidence of our interest in the blood of Christ.

Amen!

Reading: Matt. 8:5-13

Ref: HGSB

May God Bless You

And Your Family

Minister Robert A. Lail Sr.

The Cross Life Ministry

   

The Gift Is Salvation

Matthew 8:3-4 

"And Jesus put forth his hand, and touched him, saying, I will; 

be thou clean. And immediately his leprosy was cleansed. 

And Jesus saith unto him, See thou tell no man; but 

go thy way, shew thyself to the priest, and offer 

the gift that Moses commanded, for 

a testimony unto them."

 

    Christ's cleansed a leper, who came and worshipped Him, as one clothed with Divine power. This cleansing directs us, not only to believe in Christ, who has power over bodily diseases, for the cure of them, but it also teaches us in what manner to  come to Jesus and celebrate the gift of Salvation, now that our sins has been washed away by His blood.  No guilt is so great, but there is that in Christ's blood which atones for it; no corruption so strong, but there is that in His grace which can subdue it. 

   To be made clean we must commend ourselves to Him; we cannot demand it as a debt, but we must humbly request it for our sins. Those who by faith come to Christ for mercy and grace, may be sure that He is freely willing to wash your sins away, and send The Holy Spirit as your Comforter.

   My Friends, You may not be sick or have any kind of disease, but if you don't know  Jesus Christ as your Saviour, you need to seek Jesus Christ, just like the leper that came and worshipped him.  

Amen!

Reading: Matt. 8:1-4                  

Ref. HG SB

May God Bless You

And Your Family

Minister Robert A. Lail Sr.

The Cross Life Ministry

Does Christ Know You

 Matthew 7:21 

"Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter

into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the 

will of my Father which is in heaven" 

   Christ tells us here that it will not be enough to call Him our Saviour, only by word of mouth. It is necessary that we believe in Christ, that we repent of sin, that we live a Holy life, and that we love one another. This is the will of God. Let us take heed in our outward privileges and doings, lest we deceive ourselves, and perish eternally, as multitudes do, with a lie in our right hand.  Let everyone that names the name of Christ, depart from all sin. 

   There are others, whose religion rests in just hearing, and it goes no further, and their heads are filled with empty notions. These two types of hearers are represented as two kinds of builders.  The builders that builds his house on sand, and the builder that builds his house on rock. 

   My Friends, This parable teaches us to hear and do the sayings of the Lord Jesus Christ. Many may say it's hard to do because we are only flesh and blood, but they must be done. If you are going to follow Jesus Christ, you must first believe and let Him in your heart, which is the Holy Spirit that will comfort and guide you on your path. 

Amen!

Reading: Matt. 7:21-23

Ref: HG SB

May God Bless You

And Your Family

Minister Robert A. Lail Sr.

The Cross Life Ministry

The Cross Roads

 Matthew 7:14  

"Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which 

leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it." 

    Christ came to teach us, not only what we are to know and believe, but what we are to do; not only toward God, but toward men; not only toward those of our party and persuasion, but toward men in general; However,  As my wife reminded me this morning while watching Fox News, we all seem to forget at times in our lives that we should pray for all people no matter what party or persuasion. 

   There are two ways right and wrong, good and evil; the way to heaven and the way to hell; there is no other way but walking: there is no middle place hereafter, no middle way now. You are saints or sinners, godly or ungodly. Now concerning the way of sin and sinners, that gate is strait and wide, and stands open and it leads to destruction. Now concerning saints, "strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life and few there be that find it." 

   The way to eternal life is narrow. We are not in heaven as soon as we get through the strait gate. Self must be denied, the body (The Temple kept Holy) and corruptions mortified. Daily temptations must be resisted; duties must be done. We must watch in all things, and walk with care; and we must go through some tribulation. 

   My Friends, This way should invite us all; it leads to life, to present comfort in the favor of God, which is the life of the soul. It's Eternal blessedness, for the hope of which at the end of our walk, should make all the difficulties of the road we chose. 

Amen!

Reading: Matt. 7:13-14

Ref: HG SB

May God Bless You

And Your Family

Minister Robert A. Lail Sr.

The Cross Life Ministry

Storehouse Tithing

 Malachi 3:10  

"Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be 

meat in mine house, and prove me now herewith, saith the 

LORD of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of 

heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there

 shall not be room enough to receive it." 

    This passage is often used by those who advocate "storehouse tithing;"  which means bringing the "tithe" into God's storehouse (the local church), rather than giving it anywhere else. They say that gifts to ministries other than the local church should be above the "tithe." We know that the "storehouse" in  Malachi represents the temple or a building on the temple grounds.  However, The Old Testament "tithe" or "tenth" cannot be reasonably equated with ten percent of gross salary of wages which most people earn today.

   My Friends, Above all, giving should be a matter between The Holy Spirit and the Beliver, not a regulation. Now the "tithe" may be an adequate guide for determining how much some people could give. I will say this; "For many in a prosperous society, it is probably an inadequate amount, but the amount of giving must be a personal decision. Apostle Paul wrote that God examines the motives for the giving, not the amount.  "Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver," (2Cor. 9:7).   

Amen!

Reading: Mal. 3:7-15

Ref: HG SB

May God Bless You

And Your Family

Minister Robert A. Lail Sr.

The Cross Life Ministry

The Lord Be Magnified

 Malachi 1:2-3  

"I have loved you, saith the LORD. Yet ye say, Wherein hast thou loved us? 

Was not Esau Jacob's brother? saith the LORD: yet I loved Jacob, 

Mal 1:3  And I hated Esau, and laid his mountains and his 

heritage waste for the dragons of the wilderness." 

    All things, whether from outward circumstances, or spiritual privileges, come from the free love of God, who makes one to different from another.  All the evils that sinners feel and fear, are the just recompense of their crimes, while all their hopes and comforts are from the unmerited mercy of the Lord.  He chose His people that they might be holy.  If we love Him, it is because He has first loved us; yet we all are prone to undervalue the mercies of God, and to excuse our own offenses.  

   My Friends, God will have honor from His professing people.  God's goodness being His glory, when He does us good we must proclaim Him great, for that is magnifying Him.  It is an instance of His goodness that He has pleasure in the prosperity of His servants, and for this those that love His salvation say, The Lord be magnified! "Let them shout for joy, and be glad, that favour my righteous cause: yea, let them say continually, Let the LORD be magnified, which hath pleasure in the prosperity of his servant.  And my tongue shall speak of thy righteousness and of thy praise all the day long,"  (Ps. 35:27-28). 

Amen!

Reading: Mal. 1:1-5 

Ref: HG SB

May God Bless You

And Your Family

Minister Robert A Lail Sr.

The Cross Life Ministry

The Lord Is My God

 Zechariah 13:9  

"And I will bring the third part through the fire, and will

 refine them as silver is refined, and will try them as 

gold is tried: they shall call on my name, and I 

will hear them: I will say, It is my people: 

and they shall say, The LORD is my God"  

   Christ and the Father are one. He is the Shepherd who was to lay down His life for the sheep. As a Sacrifice, He was slain, for without shedding of the life blood there was no remission and, yet He had no sin of His own to answer for. This is the whole of Christ's sufferings, especially His agonies in the garden and on the cross, when He endured unspeakable anguish till Divine justice was fully satisfied. "Smite the Shepherd, and the sheep shall be scattered." 

   This passage our Lord Jesus declares was fulfilled, when all His disciples, in the night that He was betrayed, forsook Him and fled. It has, and shall have its accomplishment, in the destruction of the corrupt and hypocritical part of the professed church. Because of the sin of the Jews in rejecting and crucifying Christ. 

   My Friends, If we are His people, we shall be refined as gold; He will be God, and the end of all our trials and sufferings will be praise, and honor, and glory, at the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ. The Lord Is My God!! I Pray He Is Yours!!  

Amen!

Reading: Zech: 13:7-9

Ref: HG SB

May God Bless You

And Your Family

Minister Robert A. Lail Sr.

The Cross Life Ministry

The Open Fountain

 Zechariah 13:1  

"In that day there shall be a fountain opened to 

the house of David and to the inhabitants of 

Jerusalem for sin and for uncleanness." 

    Atonement for iniquity would be made for all sin at Calvary; it applies to all individuals, not to the nation of Israel (cf. Zech, 12:10-13:1; 14:4-9. It had been closed to the unbelieving nation of Israel; but when the Spirit of grace shall humble and soften their hearts, he will open it to them also. This fountain opened is the pierced side of Christ. We have a fountain opened for us to wash in, and streams flowing to us from that fountain to uphold and maintain ourselves in union with God. The blood of Christ, and God's pardoning mercy in that blood, made known in the new covenant, is a fountain always flowing, that never can be emptied. It is opened for all believers, in Jesus Christ. Those who are washed in the fountain; as they are justified, they are also sanctified. Believers Souls are brought away from the world and the flesh, the two great idols of mankind, that they may cleave to God only. 

   My Friends, When convinced that we are gone out of the way of duty, we must show the truth of our repentance by returning to it again.  It is good to acknowledge those who are friends and who by severe discipline are instrumental in bringing us to see our own faults and errors; Faithful are the wounds of a friend; but the kisses of an enemy are deceitful," (Proverbs 27:6).  And it is always good for us to ponder on  the wounds of our Savior.  Christ was not guilty! We are!!

Amen!

Reading: Zech. 13:1-7

Ref: HG SB

May God Bless You

And Your Family

Minister Robert A. Lail Sr.

The Cross Life Ministry

"Beauty" And "Bands"

 Zechariah 11:7  

"And I will feed the flock of slaughter, even you, O poor of the flock. 

And I took unto me two staves; the one I called Beauty, 

and the other I called Bands; and I fed the flock." 

   

   These verses discuss Israel's rejection of the true Shepherd, Jesus Christ. When those who have power proudly abuse their power, and, instead of being shepherds, are as young lions, they may expect that the righteous God will humble their pride and break their power.  Now those that were being inflicted and abused by those in power has not changed today. In fact there are Groups being formed, that "they" say it is for a better way of life for "them," while at the same time they are destroying the way of life for everyone else.    

   Christ was first rejected in favor of rulers who did not care for the people which became a "flock of the slaughter."  How can we go to God to ask a blessing on unlawful methods of getting wealth, or to return thanks for success in them? There was a general decay of religion among them, just as it is among us today.  

   The prophet had taken two staffs; "Beauty," symbolized the privileges of the Jewish nation, in their national covenant;(millennial blessings) the other he called "Bands," symbolized the harmony which united them as "the flock of God."  But they chose to cleave to false teachers.  The cutting of the staffs shows that Israel has forfeited these blessings in their rejection of the Messiah.

   The carnal mind and the friendship of the world are enmity to God; and God hates all the workers of iniquity: it is easy to foresee what this will end in. The prophet demanded wages, or a reward, and received thirty pieces of silver. By Divine direction he cast it to the potter, as in contempt for the smallness of the amount. This foreshadowed the bargain of Judas to betray Christ, and the final method of applying it. 

   My Friends, Nothing ruins people so quickly, as weakening the brotherhood among men. When sin abounds, love waxes cold, and civil contests follow. No wonder if those fall out among themselves, who have provoked God to fall out with them. Willful contempt of Christ is the great cause of men's ruin. And if Believers rightly valued Christ, they would not contend about little matters. 

Amen! 

Reading: Zech. 11:4-14

HG SB

May God Bless You

And Your Family

Minister Robert A. Lail Sr.

The Cross Life Ministry 

Prince Of Peace

Zechariah 9:9  

"Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion; shout, O daughter of Jerusalem: 

behold, thy King cometh unto thee: he is just, and having salvation;

lowly, and riding upon an ass, and upon a colt the foal of an ass."

   This is a joyful representation of the coming of the Messiah, He took the character of a King, when He entered Jerusalem in the middle of the multitude.  His kingdom is and always will be a Spiritual kingdom.  It will not be advanced by an outward force or carnal weapons.  His Gospel shall be preached to the world, and be received among the heathen.  

    A sinful state is a state of bondage; it is a pit, or dungeon, in which there is no water, no comfort; and we are all by nature prisoners in this pit. Through the precious blood of Christ, believers had been set at liberty from the horrible pit in which they must otherwise have perished, without hope or comfort.  Let us seek that His holiness and truth may be shown in our own spirits and conduct. 

   These promises are accomplishment in the spiritual blessings of the gospel which we enjoy by Jesus Christ.  Therefore this invitation speaks to all the language of the gospel call. Sinners are prisoners, but prisoners of hope; their case is sad, but not desperate; for there is hope in Jesus Christ.  Christ is a Strong hold, a strong Tower, in whom believers are safe from the fear of the wrath of God, the curse of the law, and the assaults of spiritual enemies. To Him we must turn with  faith; to Him we must flee, and trust in His name under all trials and sufferings.

   It is here promised that the Lord would deliver His people. This passage also refers to the apostles, and the preachers of the gospel in the early ages. God was evidently with them; his words from their lips pierced the hearts and consciences of the hearers. They were  defended in persecution, and were filled with the influences of the Holy Spirit.  All who are saved by the Good Shepherd as His flock, are honored as jewels of His crown. 

   My Friends, The more we are Blessed with God's Goodness, the more we shall admire the beauty revealed in the Redeemer. Whatever gifts God bestows on us, we must serve Him cheerfully with them; and, when refreshed with blessings, we must say, How great is His Goodness!  

Amen!

Reading: Zech. 9:9-17

Ref: HG SB

May God Bless You

And Your Family

Minister Robert A. Lail Sr.

The Cross Life Ministry

Belivers Will Be Blessed

Zechariah 8:16-17  

"These are the things that ye shall do; Speak ye every man the truth 

to his neighbour; execute the judgment of truth and peace in 

your gates:  And let none of you imagine evil in your 

hearts against his neighbour; and love no false 

oath: for all these are things that I 

hate, saith the LORD"  

   Those who lay their hands to the plough of duty, will have them strengthened with the promises of mercy. Those who avoid their fathers faults, will have the curse turned into a blessing. Those who believe the promises of God, must show their faith by their works. When God is displeased, He can cause a whirlwind  of destruction, and set every man against his neighbor; and Nation against Nation; but when God returns in mercy, all is happy and will be prosperous. 

   My Friends, When God comes towards us in ways of mercy, we must meet Him with joy and thankfulness. Therefore be faithful and honest in all your dealings; and let it be a pleasure to you to be so, though you come short of the gains others get dishonestly; and as much as in you, live peaceably with all men. Let the truths of God rule in your heads, and let the peace of God rule in your hearts. 

Amen!

Reading: Zech. 8:9-23

HG SB

May God Bless You

And Your Family

Minister Robert A. Lail Sr.

The Cross Life Ministry 

Change Will Be Made

Zechariah 8:7-8  

Thus saith the LORD of hosts; Behold, I will save my people from the east country, 

and from the west country;  And I will bring them, and they shall dwell in 

the midst of Jerusalem: and they shall be my people, and I will be 

their God, in truth and in righteousness." 

   God will take away our sins, and then no other enemies shall hurt us.  However those who profess religion must adorn their profession by godliness and honesty. Verses 4, 5, describes a state of outward peace, along with temperance, and contentment. The scattered Israelites shall be brought together from all parts. God will never leave nor forsake them, for this He has promised them; and they shall never leave nor forsake Him in a way of duty, as they have promised Him. 

   This Chapter looks at the positive prospect of God's future blessings. It opens with a distinct message that God is dwelling in the city of Jerusalem, and Judah is exalted among the nations and made  Holy. These promises were partly fulfilled in the Jewish church, between the captivity and the time of Christ's coming; and they had fuller accomplishment in the gospel church; but the full impact must be as to the future times of the Christian church, or the future restoration of the Jews. With men this is impossible, but with God all things are possible; God's thoughts and ways are above ours. 

   My Friends, In the present low state of godliness, we can hardly conceive that so complete a change can be made; but a change that is as extensive and glorious as this, can only be brought to pass by Our Almighty Godt. Let the hands of all who labor in the cause of the gospel be strong, serving the Lord in true holiness, assured that their labor shall not be in vain.

Amen!

Reading: Zech. 8:1-8 

Ref: HG SB

May God Bless You

And Your Family

Minister Robert A. Lail Sr.

The Cross Life Ministry

Judgments; Written For A Reason

Zechariah 7:9  

"Thus speaketh the LORD of hosts, saying, Execute true 

judgment, and shew mercy and compassions 

every man to his brother:" 

   God's judgments upon Israel of old for their sins, were written to warn Christians. The duties required are, not keeping fasts and offering sacrifices, but being justly and loving mercy, which accommodate the public welfare and peace. The law of God lays restraint upon the heart. But they, and people today filled their minds with prejudices against the word of God. 
   My Friends, Nothing is harder than the heart of a sinner. Great sins against the Lord bring great wrath from His power, which cannot be resisted. Sin, if regarded in the heart, will certainly spoil the success of prayer. The Lord always hears the cry of the broken hearted penitent; yet all who die not saved and unbelieving, will find no remedy or refuge from miseries which while here they despised and defied.  An unbelieving soul will not be able to bear, "Life After Death."

Amen!

Reading: Zech. 7:8-14

HG SB

May God Bless You

And Your Family

Minister Robert A. Lail Sr.

The Cross Life Ministry

Life, Soul, And Power=Duty

 Zechariah 7:3  

"And to speak unto the priests which were in the house of the LORD of hosts, 

and to the prophets, saying, Should I weep in the fifth month, 

separating myself, as I have done these so many years?"

    If we truly desire to know the will of God in doubtful matters, we must not only consult his word, but seek his direction by prayer.  For us to know God's mind we must consult God's Ministers; and, if still in doubt, ask advice of those whose special business it is to search the Scriptures. The Jews seemed to question whether they ought to continue their fasts, seeing that the city and temple were likely to be finished.  And the first answer to their inquiry is a sharp reproof of hypocrisy. This fact was not acceptable to God. 

   There was no form of duty, no life, or soul, or power in their actions toward serving God. We have the same throughout Churches.  Holy exercises are to be done to God, looking to his word as our rule, and his glory as our end, seeking to please him and obtain his favor; but self was the center of all their actions, just as it is in our world today.  And it was not enough to weep on fast days; they should have searched the Scriptures of the prophets, that they might have seen what was the ground of God's controversy with their fathers. One thing all Believers in Christ must remember and do, whether people are in prosperity or adversity, they must be called upon to leave their sins, and to do their duty. 

   My Friends, we must never question what the scriptures tell us and most of all,  It's God's words to every generation until Christ returns.  In closing I say this, "Never question when and where you should pray.  Ensure that your walk with God shows life, soul, and power then you will be performing your Christian Duty.

Amen!

Reading: Zech. 7:1-7

Ref: HG SB 

May God Bless You

And Your Family

Minister Robert A. Lail Sr.

The Cross Life Ministry    

Blinded In Time

 

Zechariah 5:1  

"Then I turned, and lifted up mine eyes, 

and looked, and behold a flying roll."  

    There is  Blindness happening across our Nation and many, they are settled upon their own unbelief.  Let sinners fear to treasure up wrath against the day of wrath; for the more they multiply crimes, the faster their measure fills. This is not speaking harsh, it is speaking the truth!  In Zechariah 5:1 which refers to God's Word, and the two sins mentioned violate commandments from each of the two tables of the Law (v. 3, cf. Ex. 32:15). This vision pictures the removing of wickedness from God's land.  For Joshua the priest and Zerubbabel, this would be impossible for them without God's assistance.

   Wow!! can people today not see anything that looks a little familiar here?  There was so much wickedness in God's land, so God got involved!  Now lets look at the curse, God put on the whole earth called The Flying Scroll and in it was this; "for every one that stealth shall be cut off as of this side according to it; and every one that swearth shall be cut off as on that side according to it." (Zech. 5:3).
   My Friends, We will never have peace on this earth because of the wickedness in people. We Have a generation of men and women that was raised and still being raised without discipline. We cannot support the ideal of any race, nationality or gender, in any city of our Country demanding that their lives matter. That is what we have going on today!  It starts with the Black Lives Matter Movement; and if that is not put to a stop and I mean quickly! There will be another Lives Matter Movement, but of what race nationality or gender I don't know. Our Nation needs to turn back to God!! Remember We Live On God's Land Now! You Might Think It Is Yours, But It's Not, It Belongs To God And God Will Remove Wickedness from His Land.

Amen!

Reading: Zech. 5:1-11

HG SB

May God Bless You

And Your Family

Minister Robert A. Lail Sr.

The Cross Life Ministry

Eye Of Sense And Of Faith

Zechariah 2:1  
"I lifted up mine eyes again, and looked
 and behold a man with a measuring 
line in his hand." 

 

    The enemies of the Church threatens and battles Christianity daily. They have taken God out of courtrooms, schools and whenever someone says; "That this Offends me, so I want it taken down." These, people are emblems of power, strength, and violence in our word today. These people today are similar to the "four horns" in Zechariah.  This is a general reference to any nation or persons who would potentiality pose a threat to God's people. Zechariah saw them and he began to despair of the safety of every good man, and the success of every good work; but the Lord showed him four workmen empowered to cut off these horns. With an eye of sense we see the power of the enemies of the Church; look which way we will, the world shows us that; but it is only with an eye of faith that we see it safe. The Lord shows us that. 

    My Friends, When God has work to do, He will raise up some to do it, and others to defend it, and to protect those employed in doing it. What cause there is to look up in love and praise to the Holy and eternal Spirit, who has the same care over the present and eternal interests of believers, by the Holy Word bringing the Church to know the wonderful things of salvation! No weapon that is formed to stop God’s purposes will prosper. The young man with the measuring line embodied the new Spirit animating the returned exiles. But God was intending to give and  still is giving more prosperity and increase than can be contained in walls. 

Amen!

Reading: Zech. 1:18-21

Ref: HG SB

May God Bless You

And Your Family

Minister Robert A. Lail Sr.

The Cross Life Ministry

From Judgment To Blessing

Zechariah 1:16-17 

"Therefore thus saith the LORD; I am returned to Jerusalem with mercies: 

my house shall be built in it, saith the LORD of hosts, and a line shall be

 stretched forth upon Jerusalem. Cry yet, saying, Thus saith the LORD 

of hosts; My cities through prosperity shall yet be spread abroad; 

and the LORD shall yet comfort Zion, and 

shall yet choose Jerusalem." 

    This is the first of  Zechariah's eight night visions and is significant because the "Angel of The Lord" is a phrase used throughout the Old Testament, as a reference to the reincarnate appearance of Jesus Christ, (Ex. 23:20-23). The rider of the red horse symbolizes war and the end of peace on earth. (Rev. 6:4). The myrtle trees symbolizes Israel, (Zech. 1:10-11). The earth has been patrolled by four angels of God and found it to be at rest. This means not only that the earth is at peace, but the insignificance of the Nation of Israel will continue. this causes the angel of the Lord to question "O Lord Of hosts, How Long.....?"  

   The prophet saw a dark, shady grove, hidden by hills. This represented the low, melancholy condition of the Jewish church.  Though the church was in a low condition, Christ was present in the midst, ready to appear for the relief of his people. Behind Him were angels ready to be employed by Him, some in acts of judgment, others of mercy, others in mixed events. 

   My Friends, We don't know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, so we must apply ourselves to Christ Himself.  He is ready to teach those humble and desire to learn the things of God.  All nations desires peace, but the state of nations are always unsettled, which should have us all to rise and spread the Gospel Of Jesus Christ to Every Nation On Earth.  Mercy must only be hoped for through Christ.  His intercession for His church prevails.  All the good words and comfortable words of the gospel we receive from Jesus Christ, as He received them from the Father, in answer to the prayer of His blood; and as Ministers and Belivers of The Gospel of Jesus Christ, we are to preach them to all the world. 

Amen!

Reading: Zech. 1:7-17

Ref: HG SB

May God Bless You

And Your Family

Minister Robert A. Lail Sr.

The Cross Life Ministry

Return To The Lord

Zechariah 1:4

"Be ye not as your fathers, unto whom the former prophets have cried

saying, Thus saith the LORD of hosts; Turn ye now from your

evil ways, and from your evil doings: but they did 

not hear, nor hearken unto me, saith the LORD."

   God's almighty power and sovereign dominion, should engage and encourage sinners to repent and turn to Him. It is very desirable to have the Lord as our friend, and it would be very dreadful to have Him for our enemy. Review what is past, and observe the message God sent by His servants, the prophets. We must now turn from our evil ways, and from our evil doings. Be persuaded to leave your sins, as the only way to prevent approaching ruin. Those of them who lived and died in sin, are in torment. 

   Those who lived and died in Christ, are in heaven; and if we live and die as they did, we shall be with them shortly and eternally. If they minded not their own souls, is that a reason for us not to mind our souls? Christ is a Prophet that lives forever, and as a Believer in Christ You can live Eternally forever. 

   My Friends, Eternity, is upon our door step, of which both are standing! In this next world, both sinner and saint shall live forever; in a life of torment or a life of peace.  So to prepare for that world ought to be our greatest care and spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ.  The Ministers died, and the hearers died, but the word of God never dies; for He is righteous. 

Amen!

Reading: Zech. 1:1-6

Ref: HG SB

May God Bless You

And Your Family

Minister Robert A. Lail Sr.

The Cross Life Ministry

The Motives For Our Labor

 Haggai 2:18
"Consider now from this day and upward, from the four 
and twentieth day of the ninth month, even from 
the day that the foundation of the LORD'S 
temple was laid, consider it."

     In the two Chapters of Haggai there are three messages to the Israelite's. The third message is encouragement and involves the Scriptures teaching on holiness. Personal holiness comes only by conscious effort, and sinfulness spreads and increases in one's life, unless He or she effectively combats it as well. This was evident in the lives of the Israelites. Their sinfulness in certain areas had affected all of their activities. However, since they had now repented and laid the foundation for the Temple in obedience to Haggai's message, where God asked them if they were ready for a harvest, because He was now going to bless their fields and orchards (Hag. 2:19).

   The Motives For Our Labor should be no different. Why? Because when you accepted  

Jesus Christ, as your personnel Saviour, The Holy Spirit laid the foundation of your Temple. Your Heart Is where the Holy Spirit Dwells. Haggai's plea to the people and to all Christians today is to keep in mind the motives  for our labor. We can not be slothful in our service. We must renew our vigor Daily in order to accomplish the task that God has called us to do. In our service for God, we must perform every task with Diligence and Integrity.  

   My Friends,  New beginnings are around you and within you every day. You don't need to wait for a clean slate. God is in the business of making all things new. His healing brings restoration beyond understanding, no matter where you come from or what you have done.  "Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new," (2 Cor. 5:17). 

Amen!

Reading: Hag. 2:10-19

Ref: HG SB

May God Bless You

And Your Family

Minister Robert A. Lail Sr.

The Cross Life Ministry

    

Trust In Him

Isaiah 50:10-11  

"Who is among you that feareth the LORD, that obeyeth the voice of 

his servant, that walketh in darkness, and hath no light? let him 

trust in the name of the LORD, and stay upon his God. Behold, 

all ye that kindle a fire, that compass yourselves about 

with sparks: walk in the light of your fire, and in 

the sparks that ye have kindled. This shall ye 

have of mine hand; ye shall 

lie down in sorrow." 

    Grace usually appears most in believers when in darkness, Those that truly fear God, obey the voice of Christ. A servant of God may for a long time be without views of eternal happiness. 

Put your trust in the name of the Lord; and keep yourselves upon the promises of the covenant, and build your hopes on them. Let yourselves trust in Christ, trust in His Holy name, The Lord our Righteousness; stay in union with God and let Him be your God.

   Sinners are warned not to trust in themselves. Their own merit and sufficiency are what they base their life on. But their comforts are as sparks, short lived, and soon gone; yet the children of this world, while they last, seek to warm themselves by them, and walk with pride and pleasure in the light of them.  

   My Friends, Those that make the world their comfort, and their own righteousness their confidence, will certainly meet with bitterness in the end. A godly man's way may be dark, but his end shall be peace and everlasting light. A wicked man's way may be pleasant, but his end will forever be utter darkness.

Amen! 

Reading: Is. 50:10-11

Ref: HG SB

May God Bless You

And Your Family

Minister Robert A. Lail Sr.

The Cross Life Ministry

The Last Judgement

Matthew 25:32-34  

"And before him shall be gathered all nations: and he shall separate 

them one from another, as a shepherd divideth his sheep from 

the goats:  And he shall set the sheep on his right hand, but 

the goats on the left "Then shall the King say unto them

 on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, 

inherit the kingdom prepared for you 

from the foundation of the world:" 

    This is a description of the last judgment. It is as an explanation of the former parables. There is a judgment to come, in which every man shall be sentenced to a state of everlasting happiness, or misery. Christ shall come, not only in the glory of His Father, but in His own glory, as Mediator. The wicked and godly dwell together, in the same cities, churches, families, and are not always known one from the other; and death takes both. But in that day they will be parted forever. Jesus Christ is the great Shepherd; He will shortly distinguish between those that are His, and those that are not. What ever you are at death saint or sinner holy or unholy, that state will remain forever. The happiness the saints shall possess is very great. It is a kingdom; the most valuable possession on earth; yet this is but a faint resemblance of the blessed state of the saints in heaven. It is a kingdom prepared. The Father provided it for believers  in the greatness of His wisdom and power; the Son purchased it for all mankind; and the blessed Spirit, is preparing believers for the kingdom 

    It is prepared from the foundation of the world. The Saints shall inherit it. What we inherit is not got by ourselves. It is God that makes heirs of heaven. We are not to think that having a lot on this earth will entitle us to eternal happiness. Good works done for God's sake, through Jesus Christ, will be noticed as marking the character of believers made holy by the Spirit of Christ, and as the effects of grace bestowed on those who do them. 

    My Friends, The wicked in this world were often called to come to Christ for life and rest, but they turned from His calls; and justly they will depart from Christ, because they would not come to Him. Condemned sinners will in vain offer excuses. The punishment of the wicked will be an everlasting punishment; their state cannot be altered. Life and death, good and evil, the blessing and the curse, are set before us, that we may choose our way, and as our way so shall our end be.

Amen!

Reading: Matt. 25:31-46

Ref; HG SB; OSB

May God Bless You 

And Your Family

Minister Robert A. Lail Sr.

The Cross Life Ministry

Go Ye Forth To Meet Him

Matthew 25:1 

"Then shall the kingdom of heaven be likened unto ten virgins, which 

took their lamps, and went forth to meet the bridegroom." 

    The circumstances of the parable of the ten virgins were taken from the marriage customs among the Jews, and explain the great day of Christ's coming.  As Christians we profess to call upon Christ, to honor Him, also to be waiting for His coming. Sincere Christians are the wise virgins, and hypocrites the foolish ones. Those truly wise or foolish, are so in the affairs of their souls. Many have a lamp of profession in their hands, but have not, in their hearts, sound knowledge and a settled resolution, which are needed to carry them through the trials that they may face. Our light must shine before men in good works; but this is not likely to last long, unless there is a fixed, active principle in the heart, of faith in Christ, and love to God and our brethren. 

    My Friends, The delay represents the space between the conversion of the true believers and the coming of Christ, to take them away by death, or to judge the world. But though Christ tarry past our time, He will not tarry past the due time. The wise virgins kept their lamps burning, but they did not keep themselves awake. Too many real Christians become negligent, and one degree of carelessness makes way for them to allow themselves to slumber. A startling summons will be given. Go ye forth to meet Him, is a call to those prepared. The notice of Christ's approach, and the call to meet Him, will awaken! Even those best prepared for death have work to do to get actually ready, "Wherefore, beloved, seeing that ye look for such things, be diligent that ye may be found of him in peace, without spot, and blameless. (2 Peter 3:14)".

Amen! 

Reading: Matthew 25:1-13

Ref: HG SB

May God Bless You

And Your Family

Minister Robert A. Lail Sr.

The Cross Life Ministry

Vision Of The Future PT-4

Matthew 24:29-30  

"Immediately after the tribulation of those days shall the sun be darkened, and the 

moon shall not give her light, and the stars shall fall from heaven, and the

powers of the heavens shall be shaken:  And then shall appear the 

sign of the Son of man in heaven: and then shall all the 

tribes of the earth mourn, and they shall see the 

Son of man coming in the clouds of 

heaven with power and great glory."  

    Christ foretells His second coming. He foretold that there shall be a great change, in order to  make all things new. Then they (we) shall see the Son of man coming in the clouds. At his first coming, He was not excepted well and was treated and crucified like a criminal. but at His second coming, Christ will be the one to be admired. Sooner or later, all sinners will be mourners; but repenting sinners look to Christ, and mourn after a godly sort; and those who sow in those tears shall shortly reap in joy.

    Sinners shall see Him whom they have pierced, and, though they laugh now, they will mourn and weep in endless horror and despair. The elect of God are scattered abroad; there are some in all places, and all nations; but when that great gathering day comes, there shall not one be missing. No matter where you are as a believer, none will be kept out of heaven. Our Lord does declare that the Jews should never cease to be a distinct people, until all things He had been predicting were fulfilled. His prophecy reaches to the day of final judgment; therefore Jesus in v-34,  foretells that Judah shall never cease to exist as a distinct people, so long as this world shall endure.

    Men of the world scheme and plan for generation upon generation, but most don't plan with reference to and the approaching, of Christ's second coming, which shall do away with every human scheme, and set aside for ever, all that God forbids. 

    That will be a surprising  day,  just as it was overwhelming to the old world. Apply this, first, to temporal judgments, particularly that which was then hastening upon the nation and people of the Jews. Secondly, to the eternal judgment. Christ here shows the state of the old world when the flood came. They were secure and careless; they knew not, until the flood came; and they believed not. Did we know aright that all earthly things must shortly pass away, we should not set our eyes and hearts so much upon them as we do. 

    The evil day is not that further away; but  mankind keeps putting it far from them. What words can more strongly describe the suddenness of our Savors coming! Men will be at their respective businesses, and suddenly the Lord of glory will appear. Women will be in their house employments, but in that moment every other work will be laid aside, and every heart will turn inward and say, It is the Lord! Am I prepared to meet Him? Can I stand before Him? And what, in fact, is the day of judgment to the whole world, but the day of death to every one? 

    My Friends, To watch for Christ's coming, is to maintain that temper of mind which we would be willing that our Lord should find us in. We know we have but a little time to live, much less do we know the time fixed for the judgment. Our Lord's coming will be happy to those that shall be found ready, but very dreadful to those that are not. If a man, professing to be the servant of Christ, be an unbeliever, covetous, ambitious, or a lover of pleasure, he will be cut off. Those who choose the world for their portion in this life, will have hell for their portion in the other life. May our Lord, when He returns, pronounce us blessed, and present us to the Father, washed in His blood, purified by His Spirit, and fit to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light.  

Amen!

Reading: Matt. 24:29-51

Ref: HG SB; OSB

May God Bless You

And Your Family

Minister Robert A. Lail Sr.

The Cross life Ministry

Vision Of The Future PT-3

2 Thessalonians 2:1-2  

"Now we beseech you, brethren, by the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, and 

by our gathering together unto him, That ye be not soon shaken in mind, 

or be troubled, neither by spirit, nor by word, nor by letter as from us, 

as that the day of Christ is at hand" 

    The disciples had asked concerning the times, When these things should be? Christ gave them no answer to that; but they had also asked, What shall be the sign? This question He answers fully. The prophecy first covers events near at hand, the destruction of Jerusalem, the end of the Jewish church and state. The calling of the Gentiles, and the setting up of Christ's kingdom in the world; but it also looks to the general judgment  What Christ said to His disciples, meant more to promote caution than to satisfy their curiosity; more to prepare them for the events that should happen, than to give a distinct idea of the events. This is an understanding of the times which all should possess, instead of being interested in what Israel ought to do. Our Savior cautioned all His disciples, then and now to stand on their guard against false teachers. 

    Jesus foretells wars and great commotions among nations. From the time that the Jews rejected Christ, and He left their house desolate, the sword never departed from them. "All must See what comes of refusing the gospel."  Those who will not hear the messengers of peace, shall be made to hear the messengers of war. Where the heart is fixed, trusting in God, it is kept in peace, and is not afraid. It is against the mind of Christ, that His people should have troubled hearts, even in troubles times. When we looked toward to the eternity of misery that is before the obstinate refuters of Christ and his gospel, we may truly say, "The greatest earthly judgments are but the beginning of sorrows." However It is comforting that some shall endure even to the end. 

    "Our Lord foretells the preaching of the gospel in all the world. The end of the world shall not be till the gospel has done its work."  Christ foretells the ruin coming upon the people of the Jews; and what He said here, would be of use to His disciples, for their conduct and for their comfort, and it would also be of use for believers today. If God opens a door of escape, we ought to make our escape, otherwise we do not trust God, but tempt Him. It becomes Christ's disciples, in times of public trouble, to be much in prayer, and that is never out of season, but in a special manner seasonable when we are distressed on every side. Though we must take what God sends, yet we may pray against sufferings, Amen!   

    My Friends, Christ foretells the rapid spreading of the gospel in the world. It can plainly be seen today. Christ preached his gospel openly. So should we! The Romans were like an eagle, and the ensign of their armies was an eagle. When people, by their sin, make themselves as a dead carcasses, nothing can be expected, except that God should send enemies to destroy them. It is very applicable to the day of judgment, the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ in that day. Let us give diligence to make our calling and election sure; then may we know that no enemy or deceiver shall ever prevail against us.

Amen!

Reading: Matt. 24:4-28

Ref. HGSB; DSB; OBS

May God Bless You 

And Your Family

Minister Robert A. Lail Sr.

The Cross Life Ministry