Matthew chapter 15

God gave us commandments. Men gave us traditions. We are to live by every Word that proceeds from the mouth of God. The Pharisees were complaining that the disciples were not following the traditions. Jesus spoke to them that it is more important to follow the commandment of God. Jesus said you are so concerned about following traditions that you are making the Word of God of no affect. The example Jesus gave was honoring our parents. That is the first commandment of God with a reward. The tradition says people can tell their parents whatever you get from me is a gift and they don't have to show them any honor. The tradition destroyed the reward God set in place to those who honor their parents.

Placing so much attention on what is eaten and not on what is spoken is another example of placing more emphasis on tradition than the Word of God. The things we say is what we will be judged by. The things that are spoken come from the heart. What is in your heart? Judge what comes out of your mouth and correct your heart.

Call on the Lord and do not give up. That is what the woman of Canaan taught us. Jesus straight ignored her as she cried out to Him for mercy. This is most interesting. Jesus said, my assignment is to go to the house of Israel. The woman did not get offended. I have seen people get so offended they miss out on receiving from God. This woman did not get sad. She became more assertive. She said the owners of dogs will feed the dogs after the children are satisfied. She was asking, "are you not as good as a dog's master?" Wow! She put a demand on the power of God. She put a demand on the grace of God. Jesus was quite impressed. He said this woman is operating in faith. Her faith pulled out of Him exactly what she wanted. Her daughter was healed. We must learn this wonderful lesson. Don't stop until you get exactly what you want. Do not get offended. Do not get sad by circumstances. Just continue to call out to the Lord and receive what you want. Praise the Lord!

I have been on the mountain at the Sea of Galilee. I have a good imagination of the people coming from the town bringing the sick people. The scripture says Jesus is the same yesterday, today and forever. Notice the type of healings that occurred: people who did not have legs or arms were made whole - they grew back, the blind became sighted, those who could not speak began to speak, everybody was healed. Listen, Jesus still heals. He will heal you. There is no such thing as incurable. You and anyone you know can be healed. Don't stop until you get it.

The people stayed with Jesus for three days. There were 4,000 men plus women and children. Jesus took seven loaves of bread and some fish and fed them all. I'm telling you again, God is your source. Give to God and He will keep you in supply of everything you need. The tithe is the blessing connector. You must remember that God has the plan to keep you healthy, wealthy, happy and at peace. Agree with His plan and obey it. Jesus cared for the people. He would not send them away empty. When you get in the presence of the Lord, you can be sure that He will not send you away empty. Receive from the Lord and be filled.