Can You Read the Future?

No, this isn't a trick question.

If you eat a certain restaurants, you are presented with a "fortune cookie" as you leave. Most newspapers have a horoscope section (though I've often wondered if it should be called the horror-scope). As you drive around, you'll see fortune teller's shops, here and there, and also palm-readers. Sometimes even practitioners of black-magic advertise their services.

Sometimes, many of us get tempted.

But what's worse, it seems that every young person in the world today believes (or wants to believe) in voodoo, reincarnation, ghosts and spirit inhabitation. As much as it horrifies the rest of us, there is a possible explanation in the Bible.

"And it shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out my spirit upon all flesh; and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, your young men shall see visions: And also upon the servants and upon the handmaids in those days will I pour out my spirit. And I will show wonders in the heavens and in the earth, blood, and fire, and pillars of smoke. The sun shall be turned into darkness, and the moon into blood, before the great and the terrible day of the LORD come. And it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call on the name of the LORD shall be delivered: for in mount Zion and in Jerusalem shall be deliverance, as the LORD hath said, and in the remnant whom the LORD shall call." Joel 2:28-32) kjv

Does this mean that all this horror-film stuff is for real? Thank heavens this is not generally the case. We know, however, that Satan will stop at nothing to discredit the Word of God. The prince of darkness has our world by the nose, and is leading us all astray. He is constantly perverting the reality that God has decreed. If enough of us fall for the devil's lies and deceptions, we will ignore the warnings of those inspired by God.

So, what is the answer?

Study God's Word. Prepare yourself for the coming tribulation, for it is a sure and certain thing. Listen to those who seem to spouting nonsense, some of them may be divinely inspired. Obviously, quite a few are not, but even those are God's children, and they will need to understand what is happening, and what to prepare for. You may be their one chance to hear of God's love for them.

Don't waste that chance.

Our Father is counting on you. Make Him proud!

See you soon, in Paradise!

The Armor of God

Are you able to be completely free of sin?

No, this isn't a "trick" question.

The truth of the matter is that we have all paved our own way into hell by every single sin we have ever committed. That easy pathway is the same one we follow every single time we give into temptation. Following it has become "second nature" to us.

Remember; "You can enter God's Kingdom only through the narrow gate. The highway to hell is broad, and its gate is wide for the many who choose the easy way. But the gateway to life is small, and the road is narrow, and only a few ever find it." (Mat 7:13-14) nlt

Keeping away from sin is a war. It really is you against the bad guys. Lots of folks think there can be no way to win this war, seeing all that the opposition has stacked up against us, but God has told us differently!

"Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand." (Eph 6:10-13) mkj

The "whole armor of God" is mentioned twice in these three verses... and I can almost hear somebody thinking out loud, "Aww, great! I can't memorize ALL the bible!" Most of us can't... but, we all need a "seatbelt" to make us feel a bit more secure when the forces of evil come calling. Pick a bible verse. It doesn't really matter which one, so long as it is one that gives you a feeling of safety. Repeat it a few times until it becomes a part of you. It is now a piece of your "whole armor of God."

If it happens that no one verse seems quite right, feel free to use this one. It was my first...

"The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want." (Psalm 23:1) kjv

Listen!

That metallic "ping" you just heard was sin bouncing off your brand new armor!

Were You There?

Were you there, when they crucified my Lord?
Were you there, when they crucified my Lord?
Sometimes, it causes me to tremble... tremble.
Were you there, when they crucified my Lord?

Imagine, if you can, being THERE on the day Christ died for us.

God's anger would truly been of "Biblical" proportions! Only His love for us kept Him from destroying the entire earth, but I would still be willing to bet that He had to restrain Himself from doing so.

Some people ask why it is that we do not see God being as active in our world, as they did back in Old Testament times... perhaps Jesus' death is the reason. Seriously, if somebody killed YOUR kid, would you REALLY want to hang out with his/her family?

This Christmas season, celebrate the birth of Christ, enjoy the happiness you see in your kids' faces and have fun passing out gifts. Just remember the most important thing...

Jesus was born to die in our place, so that we could get to heaven.

Sobering, isn't it?

See all of you soon, in paradise,
and have a Merry Christmas!

God's Choice - Love!

So, where does "love" actually begin?

What causes us to start loving?

Must "love" always fade with time, and if so, why?

What does this have to do with our relationship with God?

Every one who has ever had children, and loved them, has experienced the heartache that goes with seeing them begin to change, losing their child-like innocence and trust. Something has started an alteration that scares parents badly. Growing up ALWAYS brings about changes in our kids. I know I've spent a lot of time in prayer, begging and pleading with God that some way be found to keep these characteristics in the kids I love, and let them grow up without losing these traits. Please, God! Oh, please!

The bible tells us, "Behold now the third time I am ready to come to you; and I will not be burthensome unto you. For I seek not the things that are yours, but you. For neither ought the children to lay up for the parents, but the parents for the children." (2 Cor 12:14) drv

"Parents for the children." Hmmm... We also know that the Bible tells us to raise up our kids in the way we want them to go, and they will not depart from it.

But, we are also aware that children always change... always.

There are many kids I care a lot about. Some of them have "adopted" me as uncle or grandfather, one as a "best friend." I love each of them quite a lot. I worry about every one, and pray a lot for all of them.

They cannot just "stay kids." God never intended it to be that way. He has given them freedom of choice, just as He gave it to all of us. In the same manner that you and I have veered from God's chosen path, so also will our kids as they grow older, and it will always hurt us because of our love for them.

But, what started this love that we share with our children? Why does it hurt so much when these inevitable changes start to happen?

What is "love," anyway? Where does it start, and why?

A lot of men will find this to be disquieting, but a child's love begins with its trust in its mother. Knowing that mom will take care of them, no matter what, makes the infant learn to love. It takes a little longer with dad, but the process of developing a love for him starts in much the same way.

Our love for God is also based on trust. "As for God, his way is perfect; The word of Jehovah is tried: He is a shield to all that trust in him." (2 Sam 22:31) dar

"But let all those who take refuge in you rejoice, Let them always shout for joy, because you defend them. Let them also who love your name be joyful in you." (Psalm 5:11) web

Kids can only love those whom they trust. As the world erodes their trust, they begin to change. It is inevitable, and it is extremely heart-wrenching...

God feels about us in much the same way. His love for us is boundless. Good or bad, old or young, it makes no difference. He loves us all. He has proven, over and over again, that He is worthy of our trust, and our love. He hurts because of each and every one who has ever rejected Him. But, still He loves us, and always will... eternally.

"But you, O man of God, keep yourself from these things, and go after righteousness, religion, faith, love, a quiet mind, gentle behaviour." (1 Tim 6:11) bev

God doesn't want us to change, any more than we want our kids to do so. Trust Him, and love Him as your little child loves you. When worries seem overpowering, when life seems to be handing you more than you can deal with, when it all feels hopeless, turn to the only One who truly can make it all right again.

Oh, and make sure your children know beyond all doubt that they can ALWAYS trust you. You exemplify God's love to them.

Until we all meet again, in paradise.

Living in a hog-wallow?

Are you going to heaven?

Are you really sure?

Most, who consider themselves to be Christian, would respond like this... "I go to church when I can, I try to behave myself, and I think I look pretty good, well... compared to most people, anyway. I'm convinced I'm good enough to get into heaven."

This belief is fairly commonplace, and totally wrong!

"And now apart from law hath the righteousness of God been manifested, testified to by the law and the prophets, and the righteousness of God [is] through the faith of Jesus Christ to all, and upon all those believing, -- for there is no difference, for all did sin, and are come short of the glory of God." (Rom 3:21-23) ylt

Not one of us is anywhere good enough to get to heaven on our own; we're not even close.

Think of it like this...

Living in our world is a lot like hanging out in a hog-wallow. If you roll around in the filth you WILL get covered in it! The problem is that even tiptoeing through the sludge will NOT keep you clean! No amount of being careful will keep you clean. It cannot be done!

Worst of all, any amount of this world's foulness will keep you away from God, and out of heaven! Sin is NOT allowed in God's presence! Even the slightest trace of sin, no matter how small, will forever prevent you from entering heaven.

So, how can any of us get there?

God loves us enough that He made a way for us to get clean again! A way to get into heaven despite our sin... but how could this be possible? He sent His Son, His only Son, to pay the price on our heads, to redeem us, just so we could join him in heaven!

Look at it from your own perspective. How many people do you know, who've done terrible things to you... for how many of them would you be willing to sacrifice your own child's life?

Yeah, I know! I feel the same way! Yet, God thinks we are worth it! So, what do you need to do?

First of all, you must admit you are a sinner. Shouldn't be too hard, not if you are honest with yourself (and think about the hog-wallow).

Second, you must believe in your heart that Jesus' death on the cross was for your benefit. Even if you were the only one that He'd died for, He'd still have sacrificed Himself, just for you.

Lastly, you must tell others about it. God's gift of His Son's life for all of us is the most important news anyone could ever hear. Spread the word. Confess your faith!

These three steps are often called the "A-B-Cs of salvation."

Sometimes people wonder why it is that God placed us in a situation wherein we'd need salvation. The truth is, we did it to ourselves...

Imagine a beautiful place where heaven and earth came together, a wondrous place where the joy of being in the presence of God co-existed with the happiness of life among the incredible beauty of His creation. Such a place would be a garden of infinite delight, right? We call it the "Garden of Eden." Heaven on earth might also be a good description, don't you think?

Humans fouled it up, and brought sin into the garden. Remember that sin cannot be in the presence of God, so humanity had to be banished. We've never been back.

We brought it upon ourselves. We've all sinned, and we know it. God has offered us a way back into His grace, and yet He loves us so much that He will not even force us to take the necessary steps. He leaves that up to us.

Nobody has ever loved you so much!

Nobody!

Take the steps! Remember...

A - B - C

See you soon, in paradise!

The greatest of these is love!

Paul showed an amazing understanding of Our Lord's intent. God inspired him to write about many subjects that directly strengthen us and our faith. The following is from a letter of Paul's to the people of Corinth. I am quoting from the New Living Translation because I feel it better conveys the original meaning.

..."If I could speak in any language in heaven or on earth but didn't love others, I would be making meaningless noise like a loud gong or a clanging cymbal. If I had the gift of prophecy, and if I knew all the mysteries of the future and knew everything about everything, but didn't love others, what good would I be? And if I had the gift of faith so that I could speak to a mountain and make it move, without love I would be no good to anybody. If I gave everything I have to the poor and even sacrificed my body, I could boast about it, but if I didn't love others, I would be of no value whatsoever.
...Love is patient and kind. Love is not jealous or boastful or proud or rude. Love does not demand its own way. Love is not irritable, and keeps no record of when it has been wronged. It is never glad about injustice but rejoices whenever the truth wins out. Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance.
...Love will last forever, but prophecy and speaking in unknown languages will all disappear. Now we know only a little, and even the gift of prophecy reveals little! But when the end comes, those special gifts will all disappear.
...Its like this: When I was a child, I spoke and thought and reasoned as a child does. But when I grew up, I put away childish things. Now we see things imperfectly as in a poor mirror, but then we will see everything with perfect clarity. All that I know now is partial and incomplete, but then I will know everything completely, just as God knows me now.
...There are three things that will endure - faith, hope, and love - and the greatest of these is love." (1 Cor 13) nlt

Amazing, isn't it? Every last thing we hold to be important in this life is useless without love.

"What kind of love?" you may be wondering. Jesus expressed it like this... "Let the children come to me. Don't stop them! For the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these. I assure you, anyone who doesn't have their kind of faith will never get into the kingdom of God." (Mark 16b-17) nlt Is this, in any way, contradictory to what Paul says? Not at all! He is saying we should stop behaving like spoiled children. Put away the "gimme, gimme, gimme," and the selfish, self-centeredness, but never lose the simple love!

Love with the innocence of a child, and with the same kind of trust. Learn from your kids. They trust you to take care of them. Trust God the same way. He is Our Father!

"...and the greatest of these is love."

Insights...

A good friend lent me her copy of Todd Burpo's book, "Heaven is for Real." I was initially very reluctant to read it. You see, I'd always thought I'd read in the Bible that there was no return to life for those who've died, except for God's direct intervention. Good examples of this are Mary and Martha's brother, Lazarus, and the restoration of the dead for the final judgment. Speaking of Lazarus, here is the scriptural excerpt I thought I remembered as refuting the return of those who'd passed on...

"And it came to pass, that the beggar died, and was carried by the angels into Abraham's bosom: the rich man also died, and was buried; And in hades he lifted up his eyes, being in torment, and seeing Abraham far off, and Lazarus in his bosom. And he cried and said, Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus, that he may dip the tip of his finger in water, and cool my tongue; for I am tormented in this flame. But Abraham said, Son, remember that you in your lifetime received your good things, and likewise Lazarus evil things: but now he is comforted, and you are tormented. And besides all this, between us and you there is a great gulf fixed: so that they who would pass from here to you cannot; neither can they pass to us, that would come from there. Then he said, I pray you therefore, father, that you would send him to my father's house: For I have five brothers; that he may testify unto them, lest they also come into this place of torment. Abraham said unto him, They have Moses and the prophets; let them hear them. And he said, Nay, father Abraham: but if one went unto them from the dead, they will repent. And he said unto him, If they hear not Moses and the prophets, neither will they be persuaded, though one rose from the dead." (Luke 16:22-31) kjv 2000

Note, please, that it actually only says there can be no travel between heaven and hell. It is interesting to see that this passage merely says that the living will not be persuaded by such a return, it does NOT say that such a return is impossible.

However, the Bible DOES say the following...

"It will happen afterward, that I will pour out my Spirit on all flesh; And your sons and your daughters will prophesy. Your old men will dream dreams. Your young men will see visions. And also on the servants and on the handmaids in those days, I will pour out my Spirit." (Joel 2:28-29) bev

I profoundly believe that the reference to "men" here means "humans," not males per se. Why do I feel this way? The original man (or human) was Adam. Remember that God said, "It is not good for man to be alone: let us make him a help like unto himself."
(Gen 2:18) drv

Next, we read, "And the LORD God caused a deep sleep to fall upon Adam, and he slept: and he took one of his ribs, and closed up the flesh instead thereof; And the rib, which the LORD God had taken from man, made he a woman, and brought her unto the man. And Adam said, This is now bone of my bones, and flesh of my flesh: she shall be called Woman, because she was taken out of Man."
(Gen 2:21-23) kjv

So you see, both Adam and Eve, the first man and woman, were both made from the very first human. It is, therefore, quite logical and entirely probable that God does mean "humans" every time the Bible says "men."

This would likely have no bearing whatsoever on my message, except that Todd Burpo's book mentions a young artist named "Akiane Kramarik." She suffered a near-death experience at a very early age, similar in some ways to Mr. Burpo's son, Colton. It caused her to become profoundly interested in art. Today, she is one of the most exceptional artists on the planet. Her work, entitled "Prince of Peace" represents Jesus, and was recognized by young Colton as looking like the Son of God that he (Colton) saw during his own brush with death.

I will not post an image of her work here, as I'm sure it is copyrighted. I do, however, recommend you look it up on your own. Akiane has published a remarkable book, entitled; "akiane her life, her art, her poetry." And, yes, the title is all lower case.

Both of these books are very moving. I feel they both represent young people with dreams and visions. I also feel that the time remaining prior to the Tribulation is very short, and these two books will help those who are undecided AND will strengthen the faith of those who believe. Please read them both, and use them to help you feel closer to Our Lord. But, whatever you do, do NOT allow the painting of Jesus become an object of your prayer. It is not to be a "graven image." Akiane has created an aid to help us feel closer to Our Lord, to feel we can identify with Him.

These young people have had some wonderful visions.

Thank Him who is responsible.

God's Advice Column

Pick up a local paper, skip to the second or third section, you'll probably find an advice column or two. They remain popular, no matter the condition of the economy, the political situation or even the age of the reader. I've never really understood why. And yet, almost everybody likes to give (and sometimes get) advice. Whether we're qualified to do so makes little or no difference. It makes us feel important to have something to say that others pay attention to...

Why is it that we feel inclined to place value upon something that other fallible humans say, rather than the wisdom relayed to us from God?

Take a look at some of God's gems;

"The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge: but fools despise wisdom and instruction." (Prov 1:7) kjv

-Don't think of it as "fear," simply give God the respect He deserves!

"My son, forget not my law, and let thy heart keep my commandments. For they shall add to thee length of days, and years of life and peace." (Prov 3:1-2) drv

-Obey God's rules, pure and simple.

"Ponder the path of thy feet, and let all thy ways be established. Turn not to the right hand nor to the left: remove thy foot from evil." (Prov 4:26-27) kjv

-Don't veer away from God's plan.

"Go to the ant, you hater of work; give thought to her ways and be wise: Having no chief, overseer, or ruler, She gets her meat in the summer, storing up food at the time of the grain-cutting." (Prov 6:6-8) bev

-Do the Lord's work now, while you are able! Tomorrow may be too late!

"The fear of the Lord is hatred of evil. Pride and arrogance are the way of evil and perverted speech I hate."
(Prov 8:13) rsv

-God hates evil, and those who practice it. Sincerely give your all to Him.

"Lying lips are abomination to the LORD: but they that deal truly are his delight." (Prov 12:22) kjv

-Satan is the prince of lies, avoid his foul influence.

"There is a glad dawn for the upright man, but the light of the sinner will be put out." (Prov 13:9) bev

-At the last judgment, those who choose evil will be condemned forever.

"The fear of the LORD is a fountain of life, to depart from the snares of death." (Prov 14:27) kjv

-Respect God. He alone will keep you from eternal death.

"A mild answer breaketh wrath: but a harsh word stirreth up fury. The tongue of the wise adorneth knowledge: but the mouth of fools bubbleth out folly." (Prov 15:1-2) drv

-Keep a civil tongue in your mouth.

"The LORD will destroy the house of the proud: but he will establish the border of the widow." (Prov 15:25) kjv

- Pride brings about a fall, remember?

"Better is a little with righteousness, than great revenues with injustice." (Prov 16:8) web

-Goodness in poverty is great, foulness with wealth is deplorable.

"Whoso findeth a wife findeth a good thing, and obtaineth favour of the LORD." (Prov 18:22) kjv

-If you've found the perfect wife (like I did), this is patently obvious.

"Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it." (Prov 22:6) wet

-Kids need discipline, otherwise they turn to evil.

"Favour is deceitful, and beauty is vain: but a woman that feareth the LORD, she shall be praised." (Prov 31:30) kjv

-Don't put much importance on appearance, but rather on a person's relationship with God.

There is a LOT more where all this comes from! The book of Proverbs is very much God's advice column. Read it with a willingness to accept His recommendations, especially if your heart is telling you differently. The evil one will pressure you to make the wrong choices, and give you what seem to be logical reasons for doing so. God will never force you to choose His way, but the reward is eternal.

Choose wisely, take God's advise.

Who needs health or wealth?

David probably said it best;

"The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever." (Psalm 23) kjv

We complain a lot about everything. Face it, it's true. Money, family, health, opportunity, looks or home, we've all wished for something to be different. Most of these wishes likely fall into the classification of "covet," as in "Thou shalt not..."

Everything we are (and have) is a gift from God. What counts is what we do with these things we were given, not how much we complain about feeling we've been short-changed. Give God credit for His endless blessings, He didn't have to give it to you.

Father, I will fear no evil, for You are with me.

Amen!

Beast - What Beast?

"Now the serpent was more subtle than any beast of the field which Jehovah God had made. And he said unto the woman, Yea, hath God said, Ye shall not eat of any tree of the garden? And the woman said unto the serpent, Of the fruit of the trees of the garden we may eat: but of the fruit of the tree which is in the midst of the garden, God hath said, Ye shall not eat of it, neither shall ye touch it, lest ye die. And the serpent said unto the woman, Ye shall not surely die: God doth know that in the day ye eat thereof, then your eyes shall be opened, and ye shall be as God, knowing good and evil." (Gen 3:1-5)asv

The serpent here is Satan. "Any beast of the field" means animals, but it is interesting that the term "beast" will have a completely different meaning in Revelation.

"And they said one to another, Behold, there comes that dreamer! And now come and let us kill him, and cast him into one of the pits, and we will say, An evil beast has devoured him; and we will see what becomes of his dreams." (Gen 37:19-20)dar

In this reference, the term beast is conjectural, as Joseph's brothers plan to murder him, and try to pin the blame on wild animals.

There are many Old Testament references to "beast," but they still mean animals. Later we will see possible inferences of what is yet to come.

"And when Paul had gathered together a bundle of sticks, and had laid them on the fire, a viper coming out of the heat, fastened on his hand. And when the barbarians saw the beast hanging on his hand, they said one to another: Undoubtedly this man is a murderer, who though he hath escaped the sea, yet vengeance doth not suffer him to live. And he indeed shaking off the beast into the fire, suffered no harm. But they supposed that he would begin to swell up, and that he would suddenly fall down and die. But expecting long, and seeing that there came no harm to him, changing their minds, they said, that he was a god."
(Acts 28:3-6)drv

The word "beast" here continues to mean animal, but note that merely the presence of this "beast" causes people to begin expecting a false god. The forces of Satan are already looking toward the future! Worse is yet to come.

"It is for discipline that you endure. God deals with you as with sons, for what son is there whom his father doesn't discipline? But if you are without discipline, whereof all have been made partakers, then are you illegitimate, and not sons. Furthermore, we had the fathers of our flesh to chasten us, and we paid them respect. Shall we not much rather be in subjection to the Father of spirits, and live? For they indeed, for a few days, punished us as seemed good to them; but he for our profit, that we may be partakers of his holiness. All chastening seems for the present to be not joyous but grievous; yet afterward it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been exercised thereby. Therefore, lift up the hands that hang down and the feeble knees, and make straight paths for your feet, that that which is lame may not be dislocated, but rather be healed. Follow after peace with all men, and the sanctification without which no man will see the Lord, looking carefully lest there be any man who falls short of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up trouble you, and thereby the many be defiled; lest there be any sexually immoral person, or profane person, as Esau, who sold his birthright for one meal. For you know that even when he afterward desired to inherit the blessing, he was rejected, for he found no place for a change of mind though he sought it diligently with tears. For you have not come to a mountain that might be touched, and that burned with fire, and to blackness, darkness, tempest, the sound of a trumpet, and the voice of words; which those who heard it begged that not one more word should be spoken to them, for they could not stand that which was enjoined, 'If even a animal touch the mountain, it will be stoned;' and so fearful was the appearance, that Moses said, 'I am terrified and trembling.' But you have come to Mount Zion, and to the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, and to innumerable hosts of angels, to the general assembly and assembly of the firstborn who are enrolled in heaven, to God, the Judge of all, to the spirits of just men made perfect, to Jesus, the mediator of a new covenant, and to the blood of sprinkling that speaks better than that of Abel. See that you don't refuse him who speaks. For if they didn't escape when they refused him who warned on the Earth, how much more will we not escape who turn away from him who warns from heaven, whose voice shook the earth, then, but now he has promised, saying, 'Yet once more will I shake not only the earth, but also the heavens.' " (Heb 12:7-26)web

Who needs a mediator? Only one charged with a crime. Is there any one among us who is without blame? Please notice that God says it is important for us to be disciplined as His children because those without discipline are illegitimate, and are NOT His children! Being punished for our misdeeds does NOT give Him joy, but returning to His way does!

We are warned; Do not be bitter, immoral or profane.

Today's world does not seem to pay heed to this warning at all! Look around you. Outside of Christian society, foulness, wanton sexuality and general meanness of spirit prevail everywhere.

So, who is the "animal" (or beast) who will attempt to touch and conquer Mount Zion?

"But the court, which is without the temple, cast out, and measure it not: because it is given unto the Gentiles, and the holy city they shall tread under foot two and forty months: And I will give unto my two witnesses, and they shall prophesy a thousand two hundred sixty days, clothed in sackcloth. These are the two olive trees, and the two candlesticks, that stand before the Lord of the earth. And if any man will hurt them, fire shall come out of their mouths, and shall devour their enemies. And if any man will hurt them, in this manner must he be slain. These have power to shut heaven, that it rain not in the days of their prophecy: and they have power over waters to turn them into blood, and to strike the earth with all plagues as often as they will. And when they shall have finished their testimony, the beast, that ascendeth out of the abyss, shall make war against them, and shall overcome them, and kill them." (Rev 11:2-7)drv

Okay, there will be two "preachers" who will give testimony and prophecy for forty-two months. They cannot be harmed until that time has passed, the "beast" will kill them. But, who is this "beast" who comes up out of the abyss?

"Then I stood on the sand of the sea. I saw a beast coming up out of the sea, having ten horns and seven heads. On his horns were ten crowns, and on his heads, blasphemous names. The beast which I saw was like a leopard, and his feet were like those of a bear, and his mouth like the mouth of a lion. The dragon gave him his power, his throne, and great authority. One of his heads looked like it had been wounded fatally. His fatal wound was healed, and the whole earth marveled at the beast. They worshipped the dragon, because he gave his authority to the beast, and they worshipped the beast, saying, 'Who is like the beast? Who is able to make war with him?' A mouth speaking great things and blasphemy was given to him. Authority to continue for forty-two months was given to him. He opened his mouth for blasphemy against God, to blaspheme his name, and his tent, those who dwell in heaven. It was given to him to make war with the saints, and to overcome them. Authority over every tribe, people, language, and nation was given to him. All who dwell on the earth will worship him, everyone whose name has not been written from the foundation of the world in the book of life of the Lamb who has been killed. If anyone has an ear, let him hear." (Rev 13:1-9)web

It seems this "beast" will be killed mid-way through the Tribulation, but will be restored to life. Then, for the next forty-two months, he will declare war upon all who follow Christ. He will be in charge of everyone who is not Christian. We are reminded to pay attention to what God has spoken.

"And I beheld another beast coming up out of the earth; and he had two horns like a lamb, and he spake as a dragon. And he exerciseth all the power of the first beast before him, and causeth the earth and them which dwell therein to worship the first beast, whose deadly wound was healed. And he doeth great wonders, so that he maketh fire come down from heaven on the earth in the sight of men, And deceiveth them that dwell on the earth by the means of those miracles which he had power to do in the sight of the beast; saying to them that dwell on the earth, that they should make an image to the beast, which had the wound by a sword, and did live. And he had power to give life unto the image of the beast, that the image of the beast should both speak, and cause that as many as would not worship the image of the beast should be killed. And he causeth all, both small and great, rich and poor, free and bond, to receive a mark in their right hand, or in their foreheads: And that no man might buy or sell, save he that had the mark, or the name of the beast, or the number of his name." (Rev 13:11-17)kjv

This "second beast" is the dead beast, currently indwelt by Satan! He will fool many into thinking he is divine. All will be made to suffer.

"A mysterious caption was written on her forehead: 'Babylon the Great, Mother of Prostitutes and Idol Worship Everywhere around the World.' I could see that she was drunk - drunk with the blood of the martyrs of Jesus she had killed. I stared at her in horror. 'Why are you so surprised?' the angel asked. 'I'll tell you who she is and what the animal she is riding represents. He was alive but isn't now. And yet, soon he will come up out of the bottomless pit and go to eternal destruction; and the people of the earth, whose names have not been written in the Book of Life before the world began, will be dumbfounded at his reappearance after being dead.' " (Rev 17:5-8)tlb

Babylon the Great is the home, and center of government for, the "beast." Have you figured out just who he is, yet?

"These have one design: and their strength and power they shall deliver to the beast. These shall fight with the Lamb, and the Lamb shall overcome them, because he is Lord of lords, and King of kings, and they that are with him are called, and elect, and faithful. And he said to me: The waters which thou sawest, where the harlot sitteth, are peoples, and nations, and tongues. And the ten horns which thou sawest in the beast: these shall hate the harlot, and shall make her desolate and naked, and shall eat her flesh, and shall burn her with fire. For God hath given into their hearts to do that which pleaseth him: that they give their kingdom to the beast, till the words of God be fulfilled. And the woman which thou sawest, is the great city, which hath kingdom over the kings of the earth."
(Rev 17:13-18)drv

A lot of Revelation is confusing, at least it is to us now. Basically, what is said here is that the forces of evil (Satan's armies) will array themselves against the Lamb of God (Jesus), and lose everything. What is incredible is that these satanic armies are doing God's will, to fulfill all that has be foretold.

Final score - God wins, Satan loses!

So, who is this "beast," anyway? We call him the Antichrist. The probability is very large that he is alive today, working to establish himself into a position of power. From that point, he will be ready to jump into action for his master, Satan, when the opportunity arises.

Where's the beast?

He's out there, waiting, watching, planning...

Stay alert and be ready!

Dictators - Precursors to the Antichrist

I read a lot, but I'm interested in most subjects. I guess I'm just about as eclectic in what I read as in the music I listen to. I have been reading two different books at the same time. One is "Caribbean" by James Michener. The other is "Talk of the Devil" by Riccardo Orizio. The first is a fictionalized retelling of historical events in the Caribbean Sea, the second is a collection of interviews with deposed dictators and/or their spouses.

At first glance you would not think they had too much in common. Michener has a tendency to focus too much on the "bawdy" details that help him sell his books, but detract somewhat from recognizing their historical accuracy. Orizio's book is mostly a "first-person" telling of his encounters with various despicable individuals.

Additionally, "Talk of the Devil" is fairly quick reading, but "Caribbean" is HUGE, more than 650 pages! In all honesty, were Michener to have written it simply as a history, it still would have been about half as long.

Both of these books cover the topic of dictatorships. Both somewhat humanize these individuals in such a manner that you can see that they thought what they were doing was needed at that time.

Does that make them right?

Throughout history there have been many more dictatorships than all other forms of government combined. Some few were relatively benign. Very few resulted in an improvement in the human condition.

As you might expect, most dictators were egotistical scoundrels of the first order.

Does the Bible speak of dictators?

"Woe to them that make wicked laws: and when they write, write injustice: To oppress the poor in judgment, and do violence to the cause of the humble of my people: that widows might be their prey, and that they might rob the fatherless." (Isa 10:1-2)drv

-and-

"So I returned, and considered all the oppressions that are done under the sun: and behold the tears of such as were oppressed, and they had no comforter; and on the side of their oppressors there was power; but they had no comforter. Wherefore I praised the dead which are already dead more than the living which are yet alive. Yea, better is he than both they, which hath not yet been, who hath not seen the evil work that is done under the sun."
(Ecc 4:1-3)kjv

But, haven't dictators always been around?

"Now it happened on it certain day, that Joseph went into the house, and was doing some business without any man with him: And she catching the skirt of his garment, said: Lie with me. But he leaving the garment in her hand, fled, and went out. And when the woman saw the garment in her hands, and herself disregarded, She called to her the men of her house, and said to them: See, he hath brought in a Hebrew, to abuse us: he came in to me, to lie with me: and when I cried out, And he heard my voice, he left the garment that I held, and got him out. For a proof therefore of her fidelity, she kept the garment, and shewed it to her husband when he returned home: And said: The Hebrew servant, whom thou best brought, came to me to abuse me. And when he heard me cry, he left the garment which I held, and fled out. His master hearing these things, and giving too much credit to his wife's words, was very angry. And cast Joseph into the prison, where the king's prisoners were kept, and he was there shut up." (Gen 39:11-20)drv

Obviously, they have been here for quite some time.

"And the king hath done according to his will, and exalteth himself, and magnifieth himself against every god, and against the God of gods he speaketh wonderful things, and hath prospered till the indignation hath been completed, for that which is determined hath been done. And unto the God of his fathers he doth not attend, nor to the desire of women, yea, to any god he doth not attend, for against all he magnifieth himself." (Dan 11:36-37)ylt

There will never be a "good dictator," of that there cannot be any doubt. But, why have we had so many? Possibly more important, why would a nation, like ours, be gradually turning from a "government of the people, by the people, and for the people" to one that is increasingly dictatorial? Just overcoming the ingrained prejudices inherited from past despotism has taken hundreds of years!

Why give these advances up now? What foul influence is contaminating so many people?

Actually, I think a lot of it is to establish precedence for evil. That way, when the ultimate dictator, the Antichrist, takes over, there will be a massive majority that believe, "We've always had dictators. What's wrong with that?"

Look around you, today. How many times have you heard... "We've always had crime," or murder, or floods, or infidelity, or tornadoes, or disease, or wars, or inflation, or dishonest politicians (choose any). Dictators? Big deal! That's what they will say. We've always had dictators.

But, why? What is it about repetition that calms peoples' worries? Could this continuing tendency toward despotism have a satanic origin?

Please remember that Satan does know Scripture, and he does know people, as well. We like to feel we are comfortable with events as they transpire. We look at the weather, and say, "I expect rain." Cold, wind, heat, hurricanes, it doesn't really matter, we like to feel like WE are in charge. The devil plays us all for fools in these matters. Why else would people keep consulting fortune tellers or horoscopes?

So we say, "Hey, but I believe in God! I'm a Christian!"

God's Word says, "You believe that God is one. You do well. The demons also believe, and shudder." (Jas 2:19)web

You must constantly be aware that there are evil plans afoot. You must prepare for them, and assist others to reach an understanding of what God has said, and what the future holds. Above all, do not fall into the trap of trying to "pin God down" as to dates and times. Remember, "But of that day and hour no one knoweth, not the angels of heaven, but the Father alone." (Mat 24:36)drv

Salvation is NOT an insurance policy!

God does not want you to live an evil lifestyle, and then get saved "just in the nick of time." He wants your all!

Consider these words of Peter's. "Regard the patience of our Lord as salvation; even as our beloved brother Paul also, according to the wisdom given to him, wrote to you; as also in all of his letters, speaking in them of these things. In those are some things hard to be understood, which the ignorant and unsettled twist, as they do also to the other scriptures, to their own destruction." (2Pet 3:15-16)web

It isn't just the ignorant and unsettled who "twist" God's Word. One is coming who has made it his top priority to keep as many as possible from God's kingdom
.
Don't let Satan be your dictator!

Scoffers

I wish we could just call them "doubting Thomases" but, unfortunately, they represent something far worse than that. These are people who are so influenced by satanic forces that they actively oppose God's Word.

Mind you, I do not mean to include those who are uncertain, nor those who are merely trying to figure out what it is they want to believe. I want you to know that there are many who aggressively fight against God. This group includes (but is not limited to) proponents of: witchcraft, naturalism, mysticism, evolution, and brain-damaged politicians who maintain that Christians "cling bitterly" to their religion.

We find warnings in the Bible about these individuals.

"First, I want to remind you that in the last days there will come scoffers who will do every wrong they can think of, and laugh at the truth. This will be their line of argument: 'So Jesus promised to come back, did He? Then where is He? He'll never come! Why, as far back as anyone can remember everything has remained exactly as it was since the first day of creation.' They deliberately forget this fact: that God did destroy the world with a mighty flood, long after He had made the heavens by the Word of His command, and had used the waters to form the earth and surround it. And God has commanded that the earth and the heavens be stored away for a great bonfire at the judgement day, when all ungodly men will perish. But don't forget this, dear friends, that a day or a thousand years from now is like tomorrow to the Lord. He isn't really being slow about His promised return, even though it sometimes seems that way. But He is waiting, for the good reason that He is unwilling that any should perish, and He is giving more time for sinners to repent." (2Pet3:3-9)tlb

Remember, God's time is His own. It is not up to us to decide when predicted events will happen, and it never has been so. Do you remember when Mount St. Helens blew up? There was an old man living up there, with more than a dozen cats. Many pointed out to him that the mountain was unsafe, due to the near-continuous shaking, and all the steam escaping from the ground. The old guy told one reporter, "Nobody knows this mountain like me." He stayed. The mountain blew up, and took him and his cats with it.

You see, it is easy to scoff, but you might not be right. Without God, you cannot be. Never doubt that which God has said will come to pass. He gave us His Word on it.

Peter did have a few more things to say on this subject.

"Dear friends, while you are waiting for these things to happen and for Him to come, try hard to live without sinning: and be at peace with everyone so that He will be pleased with you when He returns. And remember why He is waiting. He is giving us time to get His message of salvation out to others. Our wise and beloved brother Paul has talked about these things in many of his letters. Some of his comments are not easy to understand, and there are people who are deliberately stupid, and always demand some unusual interpretation - they have twisted his letters around to mean something quite different from what he meant, just as they do the other parts of the Scripture - and the result is disaster for them. I am warning you ahead of time, dear brothers, so that you can watch out and not be carried away by the mistakes of these wicked men, lest you yourselves become mixed up too. But grow in spiritual strength and become better acquainted with our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be all glory and splendid honor, both now and forevermore. Good-bye." (2Pet3:14-18)tlb

Once again, we are reminded to spread the Word. It is why we are still here. Our Lord is not willing that anyone should lose the battle against evil, and his soul. While you are busy spreading the Good News, pray for everyone, even those who have doubts, and especially for the scoffers!

Remember this! Paul actively fought against Christianity! Jesus reached him, and turned him into an evangelist, probably the greatest of all time. How many more may there be?

Do right by God. He is counting on YOU!

Promises - Kept or Broken?

Do you ALWAYS tell the truth?

Most of us generally mean to do so, but...

You see, part of the problem is that we are surrounded by liars. We have grown accustomed to their lack of veracity, and we've come to expect it. In our society, liars prosper in every field, and in every endeavor. Almost all politicians lie, whether it involves his having had sex with an individual to whom he is NOT married, or to his ability to bring about hope and change in America. The hyper-wealthy lie about their income, so as to avoid taxes. Those at the other end of the economic spectrum lie in order to continue to receive free handouts from the government.

People who crave the limelight lie in order to promote their current favorite "inconvenient truth" (otherwise known as a lie). In general, people will lie about almost anything, so long as it makes them appear more important.

People promise to "forsake all others" when they marry, but that gets tossed by the side of the road as soon as it can be arranged. Everyone seems to believe that this type of lying is normal, and that we should all just accept it.

God doesn't feel this way. His Word is His promise, and He stands by it. Always. Even when those to whom He's made His promises do not keep their own. He does something when He makes a promise that we should all learn from; He backs up His promises with Himself! Not with a document notarized by some fallible individual... not with some corrupt politician's OK... not with some high court's ruling... God's promises are backed by God!

"Now Jehovah said unto Abram, Get thee out of thy country, and from thy kindred, and from thy father's house, unto the land that I will show thee: and I will make of thee a great nation, and I will bless thee, and make thy name great; and be thou a blessing; and I will bless them that bless thee, and him that curseth thee will I curse: and in thee shall all the families of the earth be blessed."
(Gen 12:1-3)kjv

To this day, God has kept this promise. Even though His people often did not deserve His blessing or protection, He's kept His promise!

"And Jehovah said unto Abram, after that Lot was separated from him, Lift up now thine eyes, and look from the place where thou art, northward and southward and eastward and westward: for all the land which thou seest, to thee will I give it, and to thy seed for ever. And I will make thy seed as the dust of the earth: So that if a man can number the dust of the earth, then may thy seed also be numbered." (Gen 13:14-16)kjv

How many descendents does Abraham have today? Remember, all of us who are Christian have been "adopted" into this family. Care to count particles of dust?

We will ALL fail, from time to time. We, every one of us, will sin. In doing so, we turn away from God! But, He does not turn away from us! Remember what He said; "Behold, I stand at the door and knock: if any man hear my voice and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me." (Rev 3:20)kjv

David failed God more than once. He repented of his sin and changed his ways, and was a "man after God's own heart."

Can we strive to be any less?

Fetal Alcohol Syndrome

Have you ever read a book that hit you so hard you actually hurt when you finished it? I've just read such a book! Its called; "Forfeiting All Sanity," by Jenifer Poss Taylor.

She, and her husband, David, finding themselves unable to have children of their own, turned to adoption. One of the three kids they adopted was born with Fetal Alcohol Syndrome, though they were unaware of this fact at the time of the adoption.

FAS can occur during any pregnancy wherein the expectant mother consumes ANY amount of alcohol. You see, it has no bearing on how much the pregnant woman drinks, but rather on how well the fetus metabolizes the alcohol that goes into its bloodstream, via the umbilical cord. One sip, or a weekend of intoxication... there seems to be absolutely no correlation between the amount she drinks and the intensity of the damage done to the unborn baby.

And, what damage! The physical aberrations include damage that resembles Down's Syndrome, muscle and nerve control, optical damage and severe lack of coordination. The brain damage makes these things seem minor, by comparison. Children affected by FAS are unable to be disciplined. Cause and effect have no meaning to them. Self-awareness runs from non-existent to total, depending on circumstances. They can be anxious and panicky about events that others find normal. They cannot control their anger, and steal whenever they wish to do so. They are far more prone to using drugs and being promiscuous at a very early age.

Can you imagine the terror that a parent of such a child must live with on a day-to-day basis? How can you protect a child with FAS?

A little research online leads to the possibility that the increase in convicted felons may be due to the ever increasing numbers of those who suffer from Fetal Alcohol Syndrome due to their mom's drinking.

Read the book. If you have sympathy in your heart, it WILL bring tears to your eyes. By the time you've finished reading it, you might (like me) start thinking that drinking while pregnant is the worst form of torture of a child that there has ever been, and just may be even more satanic than abortion. Please visit jenniferposstaylor.com for more info.

Kids are for loving. God says so.

Please...

Every One a Child of God

If you have, or have had, children, I ask you to think back to the time when you first held your precious baby in your hands. Do you remember the lumps in your throat, the tears in your eyes, or even the amazement you experienced that God had entrusted such a precious child to you?

I am a father, and I remember these feelings well. When I held my first born, I was terrified that I might drop him. I was afraid to do more than support him with my hands, so sure was I that hands, like mine, toughened by years of hard work, might just accidentally cause bruises, in one so tender.

Love for your children, and joy in their existence, go hand in hand. It is natural, and it is an amazing gift from God.

I have always loved kids, all of them. Some are easier to love, some require getting past obstacles they've inherited. Some have learned to not trust others, and this makes getting to know them very difficult. But, all of them, every one, is a child of God.

It isn't just the kids, either. We are all children of God's. Every one, no matter the age, is still a child of God. Look around you... Can you see the baby that an older person was? God can! That is one of the reasons we are supposed to continually remind others of God's love. He wants those who've strayed from His flock to find their way back to His love!

I have been very blessed. God has arranged things so that I seem to be able to reach most kids at whatever level they operate on. I listen to what they have to say, try to explain things in a way they can understand, and do not expect them to always be perfect. As a result, I have been "adopted" by a number of kids. I have been an (adopted) uncle, a grandpa, and very recently, a best friend (to a 4-year old!). There is an emotional overload to this "adoption" that cannot be described accurately. I am constantly in awe that God has given this gift to me.

You see, I am not perfect, either. I am very aware of my faults, and know that there is not one thing I could ever do to pay Him back adequately for this incredible gift, so I just end up loving kids all the more, and thanking God constantly.

Thank-you so much, God!

Please remember that God loves all kids; those who are just born, those who've entered their "terrible twos," teenagers, the elderly, and those not yet born. All are God's children. He loves everyone. He sent His Son to die for every single one. He want them all to come to His arms of love.

You...

me...

the unborn...

mobsters...

terrorists...

the handicapped...

Yes, even politicians!

Everybody is God's child! Some just need to be told or reminded.

Spread the love!

Are you a "Stick in the Mud?"

Are you a Christian? Have you given up sin?

As Christians, we are supposed to be trying, with all our might, to overcome the urge to sin that is a part of everyday life. There is no way anyone could be totally successful, but we ARE supposed to make every effort.

Nobody is perfect. In much the same way that you cannot expect your kids to score 100% on every test in school, God knows you will not "ace" every test the devil throws your way. David, the "man after God's own heart," messed up in some major ways. But he repented, he was remorseful. He promised God that he'd never repeat his mistakes. This, in effect, is what God expects from us. He doesn't want us making excuses, He wants our best, and our apologies when our best isn't good enough. Follow that with a promise to never "mess up" again. He will give you all the help you can stand, you might not recognize it as help, when it comes.

We often take this as an easy way out. OK, we say, I blew it again, at least I'm saved, right? And then we often go back to sin.

So, are you "a stick in the mud?"

Are you usually slimed with sin, even if it is of a type you consider to be "minor?" Can you see that this isn't what God wants from us?

I was raised in a religion that believed that membership in that particular religion was the only requirement for you to reach heaven. Every so often, you tell God "Oops, I sinned again," and all the blame was washed off. If you happened to die without your "oops" session, you'd spend some time in an "almost" hell, getting all the "ouchies" burned off, then you'd head for heaven. They referred to this almost hell as purgatory. Interesting idea, but it is one that has no basis in the Bible. Although there are similar beliefs in a number of pagan religions, there was none in any Christian religion until the Council of Florence, around 1440 AD, declared it to be a part of the Catholic religion. The Council of Trent, around 1550 AD, confirmed this belief within the Catholic church. Jesus made the greatest contra-indicator of this belief with his statement to the thief being crucified to His side, "...I assure you, today you will be with me in paradise."
(Luke 23:43)nlt

The word "purgatory" comes from the same root as does "purgative," and is supposed to serve the same purpose, flushing out and away all that is harmful. It is an interesting idea, though, isn't it? Sin some, suffer a little, then go to heaven! But, what does the Bible say?

" The devil who deceived them was thrown into the lake of fire and sulfur, where are also the beast and the false prophet. They will be tormented day and night forever and ever. I saw a great white throne, and him who sat on it, from whose face the earth and the heaven fled away. There was found no place for them. I saw the dead, the great and the small, standing before the throne. Books were opened. Another book was opened, which is the book of life. The dead were judged out of the things which were written in the books, according to their works. The sea gave up the dead who were in it. Death and Hades gave up the dead who were in them. They were judged, each one according to his works. Death and Hades were thrown into the lake of fire. This is the second death, the lake of fire. If anyone was not found written in the book of life, he was cast into the lake of fire."(Rev 20:10-15)web

Nope! No "penalty box" mentioned here! All the dead, those who were great in life as well as those who were completely insignificant, are judged "by the book." If you don't measure up, eternal torment awaits. So, how do you know your fate?

"What doth it profit, my brethren, though a man say he hath faith, and have not works? can faith save him? If a brother or sister be naked, and destitute of daily food, And one of you say unto them, Depart in peace, be ye warmed and filled; notwithstanding ye give them not those things which are needful to the body; what doth it profit? Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone. Yea, a man may say, Thou hast faith, and I have works: show me thy faith without thy works, and I will show thee my faith by my works. Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble. But wilt thou know, O vain man, that faith without works is dead? Was not Abraham our father justified by works, when he had offered Isaac his son upon the altar? Seest thou how faith wrought with his works, and by works was faith made perfect? And the scripture was fulfilled which saith, Abraham believed God, and it was imputed unto him for righteousness: and he was called the Friend of God. Ye see then how that by works a man is justified, and not by faith only. Likewise also was not Rahab the harlot justified by works, when she had received the messengers, and had sent them out another way? For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also." (Jas 2:14-26)kjv

I can already hear some muttering angrily that it is only by salvation can anyone be saved. You must follow the "ABCs," accept Christ's sacrifice, believe it is the only way to heaven & confess to others. Yet, if we are to believe that which James has said, "faith without works is dead!" Yet another apostle has included something noticeably similar in his works...

"And when the Son of man shall come in his majesty, and all the angels with him, then shall he sit upon the seat of his majesty. And all nations shall be gathered together before him, and he shall separate them one from another, as the shepherd separateth the sheep from the goats: And he shall set the sheep on his right hand, but the goats on his left. Then shall the king say to them that shall be on his right hand: Come, ye blessed of my Father, possess you the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world. For I was hungry, and you gave me to eat; I was thirsty, and you gave me to drink; I was a stranger, and you took me in: Naked, and you covered me: sick, and you visited me: I was in prison, and you came to me. Then shall the just answer him, saying: Lord, when did we see thee hungry, and fed thee; thirsty, and gave thee drink? And when did we see thee a stranger, and took thee in? or naked, and covered thee? Or when did we see thee sick or in prison, and came to thee? And the king answering, shall say to them: Amen I say to you, as long as you did it to one of these my least brethren, you did it to me. Then he shall say to them also that shall be on his left hand: Depart from me, you cursed, into everlasting fire which was prepared for the devil and his angels. For I was hungry, and you gave me not to eat: I was thirsty, and you gave me not to drink. I was a stranger, and you took me not in: naked, and you covered me not: sick and in prison, and you did not visit me. Then they also shall answer him, saying: Lord, when did we see thee hungry, or thirsty, or a stranger, or naked, or sick, or in prison, and did not minister to thee? Then he shall answer them, saying: Amen I say to you, as long as you did it not to one of these least, neither did you do it to me. And these shall go into everlasting punishment: but the just, into life everlasting." (Mat 25:31-46)drv

Remember what Jesus said to the church at Sardis; "Be thou watchful, and establish the things that remain, which were ready to die: for I have found no works of thine perfected before my God. Remember therefore how thou hast received and didst hear; and keep [it], and repent. If therefore thou shalt not watch, I will come as a thief, and thou shalt not know what hour I will come upon thee. But thou hast a few names in Sardis that did not defile their garments: and they shall walk with me in white; for they are worthy. He that overcometh shall thus be arrayed in white garments; and I will in no wise blot his name out of the book of life, and I will confess his name before my Father, and before his angels. He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith to the churches." (Rev 3:2-6)asv

You see, you are NOT saved by your works, BUT, you are defined by them. If you show no evidence of your salvation, then you have NOT been truly saved! Those who are saved, WORK to show their love for God! They never stop trying to better themselves and help others. They strive tirelessly to rid themselves of Satan's influence on their lives, to cleanse themselves of the mud and filth that is the devil's domain. A true Christian is NEVER satisfied with "life as usual." He or she will never accept a lifestyle of "kicking back and taking it easy!"

Do you believe that faith is dead without works?

Or, are you a "stick in the mud?"

Different Bible versions

People generally have a favorite Bible version. Your preference is usually based on whichever was mostly used during your formative years. In no way will I declare one version to be superior to any other, although I also have my own favorite. Due to its rhyme and meter, I prefer the King James. I am very aware, though, that the English language has changed greatly in the many hundreds of years since it was commissioned by King James (hence the name). For simplicity of explanation, I prefer The Living Bible. As it is a "thought by thought" translation, sometimes it doesn't seem to hold the power of the expression quite as well as some of the others. I list here some of the English language Bibles. This list is, by no means, complete. I have also been trying to learn to use the Greek language versions, with very limited success. If you prefer a different language or version, use it. If you are a beginner, I recommend either the NLT or TLB. They make the reading simpler.

ASV = American Standard Version (or just Standard version)

DAR (or DMT) = Darby's Modern Translation

DRV (or DRC) = Douay Rheims (Catholic)

KJV = King James Version (often called the "Authorized" version)

NKJ = New King James

NLT = New Living Translation

NRS = New Revised Standard

RSV = Revised Standard Version

TLB = The Living Bible

WET = Webster's Translation of 1611

WEB = World English Bible

YLT = Young's Literal Translation

The important thing is that you devote some time to Bible study. There are quite a few "One Year" Bibles, that are arranged in such a manner that you work you way through the entire Bible in just a few minutes every day. When you get to something that really grabs your interest, get your favorite Bible out and start reviewing.

Once you start getting into the Word. you will be amazed at how often God will give you a little "boost" to get your mind working along His path. Carry a small New Testament with you, at all times, if you can. An occasional minute, here and there...

It really is an investment in YOUR future!

Revelation churches - a review

OK, these churches all had problems back in their day. What does this have to do with any of us?

Although there are many preachers that maintain that these letters were meant only for the individual churches, I am very aware that much prophesy in the Bible is current in more than one time setting. Just because the letters were written to a particular church does NOT mean that it cannot apply today.

Look at a very brief description of each church...

Ephesus - Lost their direction. They think that membership in their church is more important than God's Word.

Smyrna - Satan is trying hard to mislead them. Jesus warns them to hold fast to His word.

Pergamum - They are being distracted by sexual sin. Jesus promises blessings for being faithful.

Thyatira - Doing good work, but too accepting of "alternate lifestyles."

Sardis - Mostly dead and lazy

Philadelphia - Strong in God, poor in money

Laodicea - Complacency

Can you think of even one Christian church that is not affected by one (or more) of the problems listed here? How many churches have you run across that claim membership in their church is all that is needed to ensure you get to heaven? How many have made allowances for "pretend" witchcraft (halloween celebrations and/or fortune telling) and promiscuous lifestyles of their members (including homosexuality)? How many churches do nothing, except go to service on most Sundays? Worst of all, how many have the attitude of "I'm saved. My future is secure. Leave me alone."

Few anywhere are willing to devote their all to giving God His due, and spreading His Word.

I daresay that the greater majority of us will see our churches within this listing of "problem churches." Jesus reminds us that He disciplines us out of love, as would any parent with a much-loved child. Are we willing to put aside our preconceived notions, hear Him knocking at our doors, welcome Him back into our lives and listen to His well-deserved reprimands?

Remember, a crown awaits!

Revelation churches - part 7

The church at Laodicea is giving Jesus an upset stomach!

"And unto the angel of the church of the Laodiceans write; These things saith the Amen, the faithful and true witness, the beginning of the creation of God; I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot: I would thou wert cold or hot. So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of my mouth. Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked: I counsel thee to buy of me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear; and anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see. As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten: be zealous therefore, and repent. Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me. To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with my Father in his throne. He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches." (Rev 3:14-22)kjv

Some translations say "spit" instead of "spue" as above. The original actually says something closer to regurgitate (vomit). Consider this church from Jesus' perspective...

They are satisfied with life as it is, thinking that because they have plenty, there is no longer any need to try to better themselves. Jesus warns them that they have NOTHING that is of any value! Because they are content with their lives, thinking that they are rich, they cannot even see that they are miserably poor in spirit, blind to truth, and naked before God. Jesus counsels them to rid themselves of their attitude, and obtain from Him that which really matters.

He even explains why He is telling them this. He loves them enough that He treats them as a loving parent would an erring child. But He also lets them know He will NOT force them! He says, in effect, "Look! Here I am at your door, knocking, asking to be let in. If you will only listen to My words, and let me back in, we can be friends and have dinner together, again."

Get past the temptation to stagnate. Don't ever be satisfied to remain as you are!

Are your ears still working? Then listen!

Revelation churches - part 6

Next, we see the message to the church of Philadelphia. This city was built by, and named after, a king with the same name. It was demolished by the same earthquake that hit Sardis, but had vineyards, and probably a wine-making industry to keep it going.

"To the angel of the assembly in Philadelphia write: He who is holy, he who is true, he who has the key of David, he who opens and no one can shut, and that shuts and no one opens, says these things: I know your works (behold, I have set before you an open door, which no one can shut), that you have a little power, and kept my word, and didn't deny my name. Behold, I give of the synagogue of Satan, of those who say they are Jews, and they are not, but lie. Behold, I will make them to come and worship before your feet, and to know that I have loved you. Because you kept the word of my patience, I also will keep you from the hour of testing, that which is to come on the whole world, to test those who dwell on the earth. I come quickly. Hold firmly that which you have, so that no one takes your crown. He who overcomes, I will make him a pillar in the temple of my God, and he will go out from there no more. I will write on him the name of my God, and the name of the city of my God, the new Jerusalem, which comes down out of heaven from my God, and my own new name. He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the assemblies." (Rev 3:7-13)web

Jesus makes them a promise here that blows peoples' minds. He tells them they will be kept out of the hour of testing that is to come! In other words, when the Tribulation begins, these people will be safe from the harsh times that will come upon all who live on the earth! This refers to the coming Rapture. Jesus makes it plain that those who are truly Christian will escape this horrible time.

Notice that Jesus warns them to "Hold firmly that which you have, so that no one takes your crown." Do not go soft, and assume your work is done!

Be a pillar in God's temple. Wear His name proudly!

And... Keep those ears working!

Revelation churches - part 5

Today, Sardis is gone. A tiny village named Sart is the only remnant.

"And to the angel of the assembly in Sardis write: These things saith he that has the seven Spirits of God, and the seven stars: I know thy works, that thou hast a name that thou livest, and art dead. Be watchful, and strengthen the things that remain, which are about to die, for I have not found thy works complete before my God. Remember therefore how thou hast received and heard, and keep [it] and repent. If therefore thou shalt not watch, I will come [upon thee] as a thief, and thou shalt not know at what hour I shall come upon thee. But thou hast a few names in Sardis which have not defiled their garments, and they shall walk with me in white, because they are worthy. He that overcomes, *he* shall be clothed in white garments, and I will not blot his name out of the book of life, and will confess his name before my Father and before his angels. He that has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the assemblies." (Rev 3:1-6)dar

A long time ago, this was considered to be a truly wealthy spot to live. Much gold and silver was coined under king Croesus. Many invaders were attracted by the wealth and came and helped themselves to it. An earthquake flattened it back when Jesus was a young man.

The church here had come to a complete stop. People who professed to be Christians were content to rest on their laurels, and let Jesus do the work. After all, they had their salvation. Why worry about anyone else? Why work to spread the word? Their motto might as well have been; I've got mine. You worry about yours!

Jesus says "You folks are mostly dead! You few who have not defiled yourselves will walk with Me before the Father. The rest will have their names removed from the book of life!"

Complacency is NOT the answer!

Once again, if your ears work... LISTEN!

Revelation churches - part 4

Next, a small town's church gets a fairly long message.

"And unto the angel of the church in Thyatira write; These things saith the Son of God, who hath his eyes like unto a flame of fire, and his feet are like fine brass; I know thy works, and charity, and service, and faith, and thy patience, and thy works; and the last to be more than the first. Notwithstanding I have a few things against thee, because thou sufferest that woman Jezebel, which calleth herself a prophetess, to teach and to seduce my servants to commit fornication, and to eat things sacrificed unto idols. And I gave her space to repent of her fornication; and she repented not. Behold, I will cast her into a bed, and them that commit adultery with her into great tribulation, except they repent of their deeds. And I will kill her children with death; and all the churches shall know that I am he which searcheth the reins and hearts: and I will give unto every one of you according to your works. But unto you I say, and unto the rest in Thyatira, as many as have not this doctrine, and which have not known the depths of Satan, as they speak; I will put upon you none other burden. But that which ye have already hold fast till I come. And he that overcometh, and keepeth my works unto the end, to him will I give power over the nations: And he shall rule them with a rod of iron; as the vessels of a potter shall they be broken to shivers: even as I received of my Father. And I will give him the morning star. He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches." (Rev 2:18-29)kjv

Jesus makes it clear that He is fairly happy with Thyatira. They work hard at spreading the Word. They give all they can spare, and more, to help others. They are humble and try to reach out to others without seeming to be haughty.

So far, so good. So, what's the problem?

He tells these people it is past time to stop tolerating the false teachings of those who follow false gods. The reference to "Jezebel" above means they have not been outspoken enough about those who promote, practice and tolerate sexual deviancy.

In other words; We cannot teach God's Word by accepting Satan's practice!

Get yourself in gear, get along God's path and do His will! The alternative will be losing out millions to Satan.

Jesus says it best...

If you have ears, LISTEN!

Revelation churches - part 3

The church at Pergamum (or Pergamus or Pergamos, depending on your bible version) is going to remind you quite a bit of society today. Lets take a look...

"And to the angel of the church of Pergamus write: These things, saith he, that hath the sharp two edged sword: I know where thou dwellest, where the seat of Satan is: and thou holdest fast my name, and hast not denied my faith. Even in those days when Antipas was my faithful witness, who was slain among you, where Satan dwelleth. But I have against thee a few things: because thou hast there them that hold the doctrine of Balaam, who taught Balac to cast a stumblingblock before the children of Israel, to eat, and to commit fornication: So hast thou also them that hold the doctrine of the Nicolaites. In like manner do penance: if not, I will come to thee quickly, and will fight against them with the sword of my mouth. He, that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith to the churches: To him that overcometh, I will give the hidden manna, and will give him a white counter, and in the counter, a new name written, which no man knoweth, but he that receiveth it." (Rev 2:12-17)drv

Pergamum was an impressive city, built on top of a hill, so that the citizens were able to look down upon the surrounding countryside. As you'd expect, this led to the locals to become VERY full of themselves. It also seems they'd invented parchment (an early form of paper) and as a result, they had a very extensive library. Not a bad thing, in and of itself, but anything that takes away from God's glory is not beneficial, as we shall see...

The citizens quickly jumped onto the Roman bandwagon when they invaded. Temples to the Roman gods and goddesses were erected soon after.

Note, please the reference to "Balaam" above. He was sent by a local king of an area through which the Israelites were traveling after leaving Egypt. He was supposed to cast curses upon the Israelites, but he got into an argument with his donkey(!). Instead of cursing them, he blessed them several times. Years later, however, he conspired to corrupt the morals of God's people, using Moabite prostitutes. He also led them to worship idols. This was the "stumblingblock" that is mentioned above.

Today, many churches are being led away from God's guidance by those who insist on "acceptance" and "political correctness." Sexual deviations are also becoming common. We are warned that this will never be tolerated by God, but it is seeping into many churches despite His warnings.

Those who resist are promised the blessings that are to come.

Those who accept compromise are promised the sword of His mouth.

Which position will you take?

Revelation churches - part 2

The next church mentioned in Revelation is the one in Smyrna. This city still exists today, but is now primarily Islamic.

"To the angel of the assembly in Smyrna write: The first and the last, who was dead, and has come to life says these things: I know your oppression, and your poverty (but you are rich), and the blasphemy of those who say they are Jews, and they are not, but are a synagogue of Satan. Don't be afraid of the things which you are about to suffer. Behold, the devil is about to throw some of you into prison, that you may be tested; and you will have oppression for ten days. Be faithful to death, and I will give you the crown of life. He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the assemblies. He who overcomes won't be hurt by the second death."
(Rev 2:8-11)web

The "first and last" here is Jesus, of course.

He lets them know that He is aware of their lack of worldly riches, but He reminds them that their true riches are not of this world. He also warns them that they are to face imprisonment and torture at the hands of Satanists who pretend to be "the way to God." Jesus promises the crown of life for those who are willing to risk death for His sake. This risk is very real, even today. In many countries, around the world, you can be tortured, imprisoned and put to death for being Christian. This risk will only increase greatly after the start of the tribulation.

Believe me, God is very aware of those who pretend to be Christians in order to pervert His Word. The devil has many tools operating for him around the world. They are currently planning Satan's rise to power. Jesus warns us that we should not fear these foul puppets. They have no power, except in this world.

If you overcome evil in this world, and lose your life doing so,
you will not die the second death.

So, what is this "second death?"

It is the eternal death of the soul. Death of the body does not begin to compare. Even the most hideous death in this world will end sooner or later. Eternal damnation will not.

Many are asking if the passage above means that poverty is the only way to honor Christ's death for us. The answer is "of course not." We must simply not set such store for things in this world that we lose sight of what is really important. There is a quote whose source I no longer remember, that says, "Why trade that which you cannot afford to lose, for that which you are unable to keep?"

Few, who call themselves Christians today, are willing to actually place Jesus first in their lives. They will be rewarded. Be one of them, please...

The Crown of Life will look great on you!

Revelation churches - part 1

Reading the book of Revelation can be confusing. Not only is it sometimes hard to understand, but also there appears to be parts that seem to have been intended for others. To make things worse, some churches (and some preachers) seem to think it is all fantasy, that we "should know better" than to believe it.

I am going to take a look at the seven churches mentioned in Revelation, one at a time, and show how they compare to each other, and to Christians today. I am not claiming to know the mind of God in these matters, just showing that we can relate to His word.

"To the messenger of the church in Ephesus, write: The one who holds the seven stars in his right hand, the one who walks among the seven gold lampstands, says this: 'I know your works, your toil, and your endurance. I also know that you cannot tolerate evil people. You have tested those who call themselves apostles, but are not, and have found them to be false. You have endured and suffered because of my name, yet you have not grown weary.
However, I have this against you: You have abandoned the love you had at first. Therefore, remember how far you have fallen. Repent, and do the works you did at first. If you don't, I will come to you and remove your lampstand from its place, unless you repent. But this is to your credit: You hate the works of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate. Let the person who has an ear listen to what the Spirit says to the churches. To everyone who conquers I will give the privilege of eating from the tree of life that is in the paradise of God.' "
(Rev 2:1-7)isv

The church in Ephesus worked hard to expose the frauds in the Christian community. In the process they were persecuted for their beliefs. They hated the evil that existed in their society, and they worked tirelessly to promote God's word.

So, what did they do that was wrong? They began to see their own efforts as being the reason that they existed. Today, we might call it a "Holier than thou" attitude.

Jesus is pointing out to them that the goal is bringing others to Him, NOT just being a member of their church! Neither we, nor they, are more important than that! He tells them to repent (to apologize). They are told to listen to His criticism, and get back to their real job. Then they are reminded what success really means.

So, how does this relate to us in our world?

Many churches equate salvation with membership in a particular church. This is incorrect, and extremely misleading. Jesus wants us to keep exposing false theologies and ideologies, but He also wants us to expose others to His word. This is far more important.

Remember, you are always going to make mistakes. Repent! Tell God you're sorry, and with His help you'll do your best to not do it again. Mean it.

If you attend (or are a member of) a church that has lost its focus, try to work to set things right within the church. If you are successful, great! But, don't lose heart if they refuse to see things God's way. There is a lot of satanic influence that is VERY active in churches today. You may not be able to influence anyone there. If this happens, bail out, and find a God-fearing church to attend or join. Staying in a church that is being influenced by Satan will wear you down in no time, and make you completely ineffective in spreading the Word.

Spread the Truth! Do it now, tomorrow might be too late!

Tomorrow's Headlines - Today!

.
I'm sure you know someone who will never make any move without checking their horoscope first. Do you ever wonder why it is so important to them?

They just want reassurance that tomorrow is not bringing disaster, and that they've made the right choice from all that are available.

God wants us to be sufficiently informed so that we always choose wisely in every situation. The trouble is, most people are not interested in listening to God. They don't see Him as being relevant to "today's world." So, for these folks (and the rest of us, too) He provides little "reminders" that we should start paying more attention. Things like earthquakes, tornados, volcanoes & floods are "minor" nudges to help us remember that He is in charge, and that He loves us enough to want us to escape the coming "Great Terror."

Do most people listen? Sadly, no...

Think about this from a realistic point of view, if you were certain that the price of gas was going up fifty cents a gallon tomorrow, wouldn't you try to fill up every vehicle and spare gas can you have today? Of course you would!

The same holds true, even when it involves planning trips to avoid congested areas and those where traffic accidents are more probable. You'd try to avoid exposing your family to high-crime areas when vacationing, too... right?

Safety first, especially where the family is concerned!

So, why don't we pay as much heed to God's warnings?

He made us. He is our Father in a way that no parent can ever be! So, why don't we pay more attention when He warns us of what's coming?

My dad had an interesting way of dealing with misbehavior. Generally, he'd send the miscreant outside to cut the switch with which you were to be punished. If you came back with one that was too small, he'd send you back out for another, until one that was satisfactory was presented. The rejected switches were used first, then the real switch came into play.

Today, it is considered that spankings are not acceptable, but just look at the dangerous society that this attitude has caused. A parent that truly cares about his child will administer the punishment deserved by the situation. Lack of proper punishment is one of the causes of society's failure! "My child, don't ignore it when the Lord disciplines you. For the Lord corrects those He loves, just as a father corrects a child in whom he delights." (Prov 3:11-12)nlt -and- "To discipline and reprimand a child produces wisdom, but a mother is disgraced by an undisciplined child." (Prov 29:15)nlt

Notice that the Bible never says to beat the stuffing out of kids who act up, just correct them enough that they grow up to be good people.

God gives us little "spanks" every now and then. Some listen... a lot don't want to, they act just like little kids who have gotten away with demanding their own way, for their entire lives. Now, they want God to "toe the line" and give them what they want. So, God sends them a slightly bigger switch...

"Spare the rod and spoil the child," who hasn't heard that expression? "Foolishness is bound in the heart of a child; but the rod of correction shall drive it far from him." (Prov 22:15)kjv

God does not want even one of us to turn away from Him. The other choice is to become perpetual "barbecoa" in Satan's pit!

Listen to tomorrow's headlines!

"For this is what the Lord Almighty says: In just a little while I will again shake the heavens and the earth. I will shake the oceans and the dry land, too. I will shake all the nations, and the treasures of all the nations will come to this temple. I will fill this place with glory, says the Lord Almighty." (Hag 2:6-7) nlt

How many earthquakes have occurred recently?

(By the way, you are the treasures that God wants in His temple.)

Read tomorrow's news.

Act on it! Now, while there is still time!

Till we meet soon, in His Temple, in Paradise!